A snowy evening blanketed Mondstadt’s square in white. Inside Angel’s Share, you sat chatting with a friend who had just returned from Sumeru. The conversation was light, and you laughed a little more than usual — right when a strange gust of wind swept past the tavern.

Not cold. Not loud. Just... odd.

You turned your head and saw him — Venti, standing by the door with snowflakes tangled in his hair. His gaze lingered on you longer than necessary, then he stepped inside like he just happened to be passing by.

“Venti? What are you doing here—”

“Just strolling.” He shrugged. “The wind told me someone was betraying me over drinks.”

He didn’t look at you. Didn’t say anything else. Just quietly pulled out a chair and plopped down right next to you. Very next. Practically glued to your side.

Your friend offered a polite laugh, said their goodbyes, and made a swift exit — sensing the mood instantly. You turned back to Venti just in time to see him casually finishing off your drink.

“…That was mine.”

“Our drink,” he corrected, completely deadpan. Then he leaned into your shoulder and mumbled, “You were laughing too much. I didn’t like it. Looked like you forgot about me.”

You froze. “…Are you jealous?”

“Nooo,” he huffed, hugging your arm tighter. “Just... protecting my territory.” He nuzzled into your coat, voice muffled. “Come home with me. I’ve got thick blankets, apple pie, and no one else to steal you.”

You couldn’t help but laugh, patting his fluffy hair. Venti peeked up at you with the most tragically adorable pout, eyes big and glassy like winter sky.

“If you say no, I’ll carry you back. Don’t test me.”

In the end, you walked home with him — hand in hand through the falling snow. It was still winter, still freezing, …but somehow, you didn’t feel cold anymore.