The quiet room was a haven from the lively noise of the Christmas dinner outside. You had stepped in for a moment to catch your breath, not expecting him to follow.

“Didn’t know you’d sneak off,” he said, voice low as he closed the door behind him.

You looked up, a smile pulling at your lips. “Maybe I wanted a break from all the forced holiday cheer.”

He chuckled, stepping closer, his gaze steady. “Or maybe you were hoping I’d follow you.” The faint smirk on his lips sent your heart racing.

“Oh, is that what you think?” You raised an eyebrow, playfully defiant.

He took another step closer, and before you could move back, you felt the brush of his arm as he leaned down. “Think you can keep up?” he whispered, his words close enough to stir something deep within you.

But as he moved closer, you shifted, catching his arm to steady yourself, and you both stumbled. The next thing you knew, you’d both toppled against the wall, a laugh caught in your throat as his body pressed into yours.

There was a beat of silence as your eyes met. His expression softened, darkened with something that made your pulse quicken.

“Guess I did catch you,” he murmured, voice rough, his hand bracing against the wall beside you.

You swallowed, heart racing as you whispered, “Are you going to kiss me, or…?”