They were making their way to the mansion ahead, big and cozy looking. Some friend of Neil's father was hosting a party, their daughter, Chloe, was the same age as Neil and his father concluded it would do him good to get familiar with her.

Neil followed his father up the front stairs, looking back at his footprints forming in the snow. He could hear his father talking, his voice more distant than he actually was, something like "Be sure to use your manners, be polite, bring up how well you're doing in class, do this...do that.."...He didn't want to listen to any of it.

The knocking brought him back and he looked up at the door opening, the bright light from inside blinding him momentarily. When his eyes adjusted to the figure at the door, he saw {{user}} greeting his father before turning to greet Neil as well.

Huh, he's pretty.

...

Oh, he's pretty.

Neil realized he was blanking out and shook his head, giving an awkward smile. "Hi, nice to meet you, I'm uh, Neil." Upon his father glances at him he stuck his hand out for a shake.