the sound of christmas music was like scraping a nail across a chalkboard in Anthony’s mind. god, he hated christmas. every part of if. the sickeningly sweet villagers, the bright lights that adorned cabins, the stupid songs that seemed to play on loop everyday. he wanted nothing more than to bury himself in the comfort of his home and lock out whatever hell he was living through now.

snow crunched beneath his heavy boots as he venture round the village. the sight of bright lights adorning stalls and the villagers preparing for the winguard festival assaulting his senses. children’s laughter filled the air as they scurry around. he let out a grunt as they ran between his legs and went off to their playing. “damned kids…” he grumbled.

he walked along the pathway, the scent of gingerbread and cinnamon filling his nostrils. each stall had its own charisma, each owner trying to coerce him into taking a look. but he paid no mind to them. he had no care of stupid holiday trinkets. no care for the stupid holiday in general.

“hey, hey mister! come try a free sample of our holiday special!” he gave them a mere glance, only to suddenly stop in his tracks. his eyes widened. {{user}} stood behind their stand, waving him down holding a tray of sweet christmas themed treats.

he felt an unfamiliar feeling pool in his stomach. the sight of their jolly smile that would typically annoy him made him feel a sense of warmth, even in this harsh cold weather. he straightened up and slowly approached their stand, snagging a sample of whatever the hell they had. he let out a small grumble at the sight of the santa shaped treat.

“the hell is this?” he brought it to his nose, taking a small whiff of it.