New Year was just around the corner. The whole house was drowning in the cozy pre-New Year bustle. You were standing on a stool in the living room, hanging decorations on top of the tree, and the aroma of gingerbread cookies was coming from the kitchen.

Ren came out with a tray in his hands, on which lay the first batch of fresh gingerbread. He was about to put it on the table, but his gaze lingered on you.

You reached up to decorate the Christmas tree, and the light of the garlands softly illuminated your figure. The shorts and simple T-shirt he gave you unexpectedly emphasized something in you that he did not often notice.

Ren carefully placed the tray on the table. His apron was on the couch the next second.

He came closer and, without saying a word, hugged you. His hands slid to your hips, and his tail froze for a moment, and then began to wag again. He inhaled the scent of your hair, almost imperceptibly, and smiled.

"You're trying so hard.."