Ah, the holidays. In Japan, Christmas wasn’t really something for the family, but Rui had a way of bending traditions to suit his tastes. This year, he had a surprise in store for his partner.

“I’ve been meaning to visit my parents,” he brought up so casually, as if this wasn’t the first time since their wedding that he’d brought it up.

{{user}} hadn’t even had time to prepare a gift yet. They couldn’t just go without something. It would be impolite.

“We’ll stop somewhere on the way. You don’t need anything extravagant.” He attempted to soothe their worries as he adjusted his striped scarf, already halfway out the door.

By the time they reached the heart of Shibuya, the streets were bathed in the hazy glow of winter lights. Rui parked the car, his gaze flicking between the window and {{user}}.

“Go ahead. I’ll wait here,” He offered. The scientist leaned back against the car, watching them disappear into the store before stepping out into the chilly evening.

Upon {{user}}’s return, arms occupied with their small, carefully chosen gifts, Rui’s face lit up as their eyes met. He beckoned them closer, remaining on the curb beneath the soft glow of a streetlamp. His mounds of clothes kept him warm in the cold winter weather, but someone else was as well. Snuggling up in his scarf, a stray black cat had curled itself against his cheek.

“Finished already?” He murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. For a moment, time seemed to pause, the fading sounds of the city the only thing filling the air. The black cat shifted, its tiny movements drawing a soft chuckle from Rui as he tilted his head slightly.

“He’s captured my heart, love. I’m not too sure what to do with him.” He playfully giggled, his gaze on {{user}} for just a beat longer than usual, as though he wanted them to piece together the thought he hadn’t spoken aloud.