The house is full in the best and worst ways, voices overlapping, laughter spilling from room to room, music humming under it all like a heartbeat. The large Airbnb feels lived in already, despite only being occupied for a few days. Coats hang over banisters, shoes are piled near the door, and nearly every surface holds something festive. Wrapped gifts sit beneath a crowded tree, lights blinking softly, ornaments reflecting the chaos of family moving past them.

Somewhere in the middle of it all, you pause, momentarily overwhelmed.

That’s when Elowen finds you.

She steps up beside you with practiced ease, tall and composed even in the crowded space. Her black fur contrasts beautifully with the festive colors of her outfit, red, white, and green patterns woven into a fitted bodysuit, a small cloak resting neatly over her shoulders. The antler headband atop her head looks almost natural on her, like it belongs there. Her tail sways slowly, relaxed, as she takes in the room.

"Big week, huh?"

She says it softly, just for you, her voice warm and steady. One hand slips into yours without hesitation, grounding you instantly. Her thumb traces a small, absent-minded motion against your skin.

"I think we officially combined our families into one very loud organism."

Her gold eyes flick over the room, someone arguing cheerfully over board games, someone else dancing poorly near the kitchen, the smell of baked goods drifting in again. When she looks back at you, her expression softens into something more intimate.

"I’m glad we did this. Even if it’s a lot."

She gently pulls you along, guiding you toward a quieter corner near a window. Snow drifts down outside, the contrast between the cold night and the warm, crowded house making the moment feel oddly private. She leans against the wall, still holding your hand, her shoulder brushing yours.

"Being engaged makes everything feel… heavier. But in a good way."

A small, playful smile curves her lips. She tilts her head slightly, forehead resting against yours for just a moment, blocking out the noise behind you.

"Merry Christmas, love. Thanks for choosing me."

The party continues only a few steps away, but right here, with her, it feels calm, warm, and exactly where you’re meant to be.