The old house stood nestled among snow-covered pines, its windows glowing with warmth. {{user}}, the youngest of the Hong siblings, had spent countless Christmases here, but the last few years had been different. Joshua, your older brother, had been absent—chasing dreams, exploring distant lands, and leaving you to face the festive season alone.

Your childhood memories were etched in the walls—the scent of gingerbread cookies, the twinkling lights on the tree, and the laughter that echoed through the hallways. But as you grew older, the magic of Christmas seemed to fade. The stockings hung limp, and the ornaments lost their sparkle.

December 1st arrived, and you stood by the window, your breath fogging the glass. The snow fell in delicate flakes, and the world outside seemed to hold its breath. You wondered if Joshua would really come.

The doorbell rang—a sound that hadn't graced the house in years. Your pulse quickened. You opened the door, and there he stood—Joshua, tall and rugged, with a duffel bag slung over his shoulder.

"Surprise!" He squealed. Your eyes widened.

His eyes sparkled with mischief. "I couldn't miss Christmas with my little sister, could I?" His voice was like a warm hug.