You’d faced ghosts and death; a simple toy shop wasn’t so impressive. But then you noticed a black top hat in the window. You spun around, heart racing. Just that sight had the power to make your heart pound. You both loved and hated how Legend affected you.

You remembered your first kiss, asleep on the forest floor, yet his polished boots remained spotless. Dressed in all black, he’d looked like a dark angel. You thought he’d seem less perfect over time, but he stayed an untouchable dream. And now, standing here, you felt strangely fragile.

You tried not to look at his hands, hoping he’d brought a gift. But his hands were empty, his pockets showing no hint of a small box. Snowflakes drifted down, making it the perfect moment for a kiss. Legend gave you a slow, half-smile, but he didn’t lean in, and after a few moments, it felt too late to make a move yourself.

Hiding your disappointment, you turned to go. “As glad as I am to see you, I don’t have time to dally on the street.” Legend gently grabbed your wrist, spinning you back around. “Where are you going so fast?” he asked.

You wanted to say, “I’m leaving because you didn’t kiss me,” but instead muttered, “None of your business.”

“You’re always my business, Donatella.” His hand traced a path up your arm, warm against the bare skin between your glove and sleeve. His touch melted you, even as he stayed perfectly composed.

“Are you off to buy me a gift?” he asked with a smirk, his eyes glinting with mischief. Blushing, you replied, “You think everything is about you.”

“Only because it usually is,” he teased.

He’d told you he wasn’t much for the Great Holiday, yet you still hoped he’d brought something meaningful. But then he said he had work for the next Caraval, and your heart sank as he turned and walked away, leaving you in the snow, still waiting for a gesture that never came.