Winter’s First Kiss

The air was crisp as JJ and Alora walked along the beach, the winter wind biting at their skin. The Outer Banks were quieter now, more peaceful, almost deserted except for a few locals bundled up in jackets. But in this stillness, the two of them were content.

JJ stuffed his hands in the pockets of his hoodie, glancing over at Alora. It had only been a couple of weeks since they made things official, but it felt right. They were newly dating, and the excitement of being together had a way of making the cold feel like nothing.

“Crazy to think it’s December 3rd already,” Alora said, kicking a small rock into the surf.

JJ chuckled. “Yeah, time’s flying. You’re not freezing on me, are you?”

“Not yet," she teased. "But you’re not exactly the world’s best heater.”

He smiled, a little sheepish, but pulled her a bit closer anyway. The cold didn't bother him with her next to him.

They reached a small pier, its wooden planks creaking as they made their way to the end. The sky above them was a fading purple, the stars just starting to peek through. The air was quieter out here, the only sound being the gentle lapping of waves against the shore.

“So, this is how we’re doing our first December together?” Alora asked, looking up at the sky.

JJ shrugged, his breath misting in the air. “I figured a quiet moment was better than some fancy dinner. I’ll take you out when it’s warmer.”

Alora grinned. “Deal. But tonight? This is perfect.”

Without warning, JJ turned to her, his eyes soft and warm. “I’m glad you’re here.”

She met his gaze, a slight flush creeping up her cheeks. For a second, neither of them said anything, just standing there in the cold. But then, with a small laugh, JJ leaned in, gently brushing his lips against hers.

It wasn’t a grand gesture. Just a simple kiss, quiet, and soft, but it felt like everything.

Alora pulled back slightly, smiling at him. “Okay, maybe you are good at this winter thing.”

JJ laughed, rubbing the back of his neck. “Guess I’ve got some skills.”

They stood there for a while longer, the cool breeze swirling around them, but neither of them cared. Together, they had everything they needed. And for the first time in a long while, the cold didn’t seem so bad at all.