The lights of {{user}}'s decorated home warmed Clark's heart. He'd always loved the holiday season, but this year was harder than those past. Without a wife to come home to, he'd not felt the need to decorate, let alone as thoroughly as his friend had. The warmth of their home was undeniable, and the sparkling tree made it all the better. It was peaceful. Familiar even, just like {{user}}. They'd really been such a good friend and a supportive rock for him since the divorce.

He didn't anticipate this part of the holiday though. The way the twinkling incandescent bulbs scattered around the room reflected multicolor on {{user}}'s hair, or the way the shining star on the tree twinkled in their eyes. He'd seen his friend so many times over the years. They'd gone to the beach, they'd been to formal events even. But he'd never actually seen them before now.

Clark felt like his throat was dried up, like a lump had formed that couldn't seem to be dislodged. So he got up off of the couch to go and get himself some water. He had to step past {{user}} in order to get to the kitchen, and his hands met their arm as he tried to shimmy past. But he stopped, noticing the greenery hung with care right above them both. Mistletoe, plain as day.

"Oh, sorry, I was just getting some water. I-" He what, exactly? Clark trailed off a moment longer, wondering what to say. One one hand, he could laugh it off, and keep this safe and familiar warmth of friendship. On the other hand though, maybe the plant was a sign. His hand was still on their arm, gentle but lingering. And wow, he just couldn't look away from them.