Christmas was approaching quickly, and for once, the Outer Banks weren’t their usual sunny, warm selves. Snow had fallen, covering the streets in a blanket of white, giving everything a rare, magical feel.

You and Rafe had spent a few Christmases together, but finding him the right gift never got any easier. He had everything—luxury watches, the latest gadgets, and anything money could buy. But you didn’t want to give him something expensive or flashy; you wanted it to be meaningful, something that showed how much you loved and understood him.

After days of thinking, the perfect idea finally came to you. It wasn’t grand or extravagant, but it was deeply personal—something that spoke to the parts of Rafe he didn’t always acknowledge. Carefully, you wrapped the gift in simple paper with a red ribbon and placed it under the tree, right beside the one meant for you.

That evening, as the two of you sat down for Christmas dinner, Rafe’s gaze drifted to the tree and landed on the small package. With a curious grin, he stood and crouched to pick it up, holding it aloft like it was some rare treasure.

“You really got me something?” he asked playfully, his grin softening as he turned the package in his hands, as if he couldn’t quite believe it.