The city outside hummed quietly, but inside Gracie’s apartment, time moved slower.

Warm light spilled from a floor lamp in the corner, casting a golden glow over the living room. The windows were slightly fogged from the contrast between the chilly evening and the cozy heat indoors. A few fairy lights were strung above the couch, twinkling gently like little stars.

Gracie padded into the room barefoot, wearing soft flannel pajama pants and a worn sweatshirt that hung slightly off one shoulder. In her hands, she balanced a big bowl of popcorn and two mismatched mugs of hot chocolate—one of which had way too many marshmallows.

“Okay,” she said with a grin, plopping down beside {{user}} on the couch. “Do we start with something sad or something ridiculous?”