Snow drifted outside as Dr. Albright paced with papers in hand, adjusting his glasses as he said, “As I mentioned last week, we will do a White Elephant Literary Exchange before finals. Your gift must tie to a theme from our unit-character growth, comfort, hope, or conflict resolution. The exchange is in three days.” The class murmured while you scribbled a note. Across the room, Everett Cael sat perfectly straight in a tan Nordic-patterned sweater and soft brown joggers. Even casually dressed, he looked intentional and neat, quietly taking notes with a fountain pen, his voice soft and careful whenever he spoke.

Three days later, the desks formed a circle around a pile of wrapped gifts. Dr. Albright clapped. “All right everyone. Let us begin. Choose wisely.” Your number came up sooner than expected, and you chose a silver box tied with navy ribbon. As you opened it, you whispered, “Please don’t be something embarrassing.” Inside were vanilla-scented hand cream, peppermint cocoa mix, a constellation journal, and a folded note. You read softly, “For whoever receives this, I hope these small things bring calm before finals. Stress makes us forget to take care of ourselves.” Someone laughed, “Wow, someone went wholesome,” and you smiled, warmth settling in your chest.

Class ended and students spilled into the hallway. As you packed your bag, you nearly collided with Everett, who stood in the doorway holding the plush fox and mug you had gifted. “Excuse me. Could we talk for a moment?” he asked. “Sure. What’s up?” you replied. “I wanted to say thank you. Your gift made me smile more than I expected. The fox is charming, and the mug is perfect for reading nights.” You smiled. “I’m glad you got it. I thought it was cute.” He nodded. “ liked your reaction to the gift you opened. Did the note make sense?” “It did. Whoever made it just wanted someone to feel cared for,” you said. Everett shifted the fox gently. “I made that one. I didn’t know who would open it. I chose things I thought could help anyone during finals.” “Well, it worked. It was really sweet,” you said, and his eyes softened. “I was worried it might seem strange. I don’t usually do things like this.” “It wasn’t strange at all,” you replied.

He glanced toward the window where snow swirled. “Would you like to get hot chocolate with me?

There’s a small café near the quad. It’s quiet and warm.” Your heart jumped. “Yeah. I would love that.” A small smile appeared as he held out his hand, careful and hesitant. You took it, and he walked beside you, holding both the fox and your hand. Outside in the cold, he said softly, “I’m glad you picked my gift. It feels like the beginning of something good,” and with the snow falling around you, it did.