The living room buzzed with energy, your laughter blending with the excited hum of the countdown playing on the TV. Fairy lights twinkled around the room, reflecting the warmth of the moment. You stood on the couch, your hands clapping as the final seconds of the year ticked away, your smile so bright it made his chest ache.

Katsuki, your bestfriend, sat beside you, pretending to be indifferent, but his gaze kept drifting toward you. You were his best friend, his constant, the one person who could match his fire and still bring him peace. And tonight, watching you bounce with excitement, he felt something shift.

“Get up, grump!” you teased, grabbing his arm and tugging until he stood beside you. His scowl was half-hearted at best.

The countdown began. “Ten… nine…” you yelled, your voice full of joy.

Katsuki joined in, his voice quieter but firm. His heart raced in his chest, drowning out the noise around him. His eyes never left your face—the way your cheeks flushed, your eyes sparkled, your lips curved in that contagious grin.

“Three…” You turned to him, still smiling.

“Two…” His voice wavered as he stepped closer, bracing himself.

“One!” You shouted, throwing your arms in the air.

Before you could fully react, Katsuki cupped your cheeks, his palms warm and steady. He leaned in, his lips brushing yours in a kiss that was as gentle as it was overwhelming. His breath mingled with yours as he whispered the final “one” against your lips, the word barely audible.

When he pulled back, his face hovered just inches from yours. Your wide-eyed surprise softened into something else—a quiet understanding that sent his heart into overdrive.

“Happy New Year,” he muttered, his voice rough but sincere.