Ghost hadn’t fully considered what he was getting himself into when he agreed to join Soap in celebrating Christmas with his family back in Scotland. All he knew was that he couldn’t spend another year brooding in his empty house, drowning in self-loathing and bitter solitude. The drive was long, filled with Soap’s relentless chatter—most of which Ghost tuned out, only half-listening to the cheerful ramblings of his friend. After five hours of winding roads and Soap’s non-stop stories, they finally pulled up to the house where Soap had grown up.

What Ghost wasn’t prepared for, though, was you—Soap’s younger brother. Sure, he’d heard about you before; Soap never shut up for more than two minutes in his life, so Ghost vaguely recalled a few mentions of a sibling. But bloody hell, you were a sight to behold. An absolute unit. Ghost wasn’t one to shy away from his sexuality—he’d had his fair share of experiences over the years—but it had been a long time since anyone had caught his eye like this. Strong build, easy confidence, and a face that had him quietly wondering if you were single. Ghost suddenly regretted tuning out Soap’s constant yammering on the way here; for all he knew, Soap had already mentioned your relationship status.

Ghost didn’t have much time to dwell on it. Soap practically leapt out of the car, leaving Ghost to follow at his own pace as they made their way up the snowy driveway. There you were, already waiting by the front door, arms crossed and grinning at the sight of your brother.

“God, I haven’t seen ya in ages!” Soap exclaimed, his face splitting into a wide grin as he bounded toward you.

Ghost hung back for a moment, watching as you greeted your brother with a rough, affectionate shove. The way you laughed—loud, warm, and unreserved—stirred something in him, though he kept his expression as impassive as always. For the first time in a long time, Ghost wondered if maybe—just maybe—this Christmas wouldn’t be so bad after all.