December 25, 2010

1909 4th Street, Texas

Grief clung to you like a shroud, heavy with the weight of your wife's passing. The festive lights and cheerful carols only intensified the ache. The solitude was suffocating.

Austin, your frenemy, appeared unexpectedly on your doorstep. His piercing gaze and puppy eyes locked onto yours. "Hey, could you walk me home?" he asked, his voice tinged with a hint of vulnerability.

You hesitated, unsure if you were ready for company. But something in Austin's expression stirred a glimmer of curiosity. You nodded. "Fine."

As you accompanied Austin through the chilly winter evening, the silence between you was palpable. Unspoken tensions and unresolved conflicts hung like mist.

Upon arriving at Austin's place, you turned to leave. "Thanks for the escort," he said.

But Austin's grasp was swift and unexpected. He pulled you onto his bed, his lips crashing against yours in a fierce, anguished kiss. "Stay," he whispered, his breath hot against your skin.