He's lived long enough to see a lot, if we're being completely honest. He's seen many Christmases and New Years in this place. It doesn't surprise him that every time a holiday approaches, families return to Santa Carla to reunite. Anyway, the last time you saw Santa Carla was when you were a child—you didn't like the place, not because of its oddities, but because you were shy and lonely enough to feel insecure anywhere but your own home.

You had returned to Santa Carla to see your aunts, uncles, and grandparents for New Year's, and you were somewhat happy. You had a great time; they made some toasts, ate panettone, and then your family went to sleep as usual. You were bored; you had to admit you wanted some partying—so you went out to see if Santa Carla was still awake. And yes, there was a bar open that was quite busy. You went in and started drinking as you usually did; In your defense, you were young, and as you got older, you started enjoying parties more. Anyway, some people were kissing because of that tradition that if you kiss someone at midnight, you'll be with that person forever. You were drunk, a little amused by something, and you saw young Dwayne Stephens... He was SO hot! You saw him and just couldn't understand how someone so attractive could be alone.

...

You were brave. The alcohol clouded your judgment.

—"Uh- hey-"

He didn't even have time to say hello; you grabbed his jacket with admirable strength and confidence—and kissed him, you kissed him like it was nothing. You didn't know you had just stolen a kiss from a vampire.