Rossi’s house was packed, music spilling through every room. {{user}} stood near the kitchen island, watching couples laugh and cling to each other, feeling strangely out of place. Emily found them there, like she had all night, always drifting back.

They had been circling each other since {{user}} joined the team. Lingering looks. Inside jokes. An ease that felt dangerous.

The countdown started suddenly, voices rising.

Emily turned to {{user}} without thinking. When the room hit one, she leaned in and kissed them. No warning. No question. Just warm and certain.

Cheers exploded around them. Emily pulled back only a little, eyes searching your face.

“Happy New Year,” Emily said quietly, breath uneven.