The snow fell softly outside your apartment as you sat alone, nursing a mug of hot chocolate. Christmas had never felt lonelier. After months overseas on a mission, you missed them—Touya and Keigo. The memories of hanging out in the hospital after the war felt distant, yet the warmth lingered. Christmas overseas felt lonelier than you’d expected. Months had passed since you left Japan, leaving behind the bond you’d slowly rebuilt with Keigo and Touya after the war.

A sudden knock at the door startled you. Confused, you opened it—and froze.

Keigo stood there, bundled in a thick coat and scarf, his usual grin softer than usual. Beside him, Touya smirked, his hands shoved into his jacket pockets.

“Merry Christmas,” Keigo said, stepping inside like it was the most natural thing in the world.

“You’re here?” you stammered.

“Figured you’d be sulking alone,” Touya said, holding up a bag of snacks. “We couldn’t let that happen.”

Keigo handed you a small, slightly crooked wreath. “Thought your place could use some Christmas cheer.”

Warmth bloomed in your chest, the loneliness melting away as they made themselves at home. Touya teased you about the lack of decorations while Keigo set up snacks.

“Thanks for this,” you said, voice soft as you watched them.

Keigo winked. “Told you we’d make it a good one.”

For the first time in months, you felt whole.