Since you and Simon started dating, you'd shared almost everything—favorite colors, Simon's favorite book, and even why he wore his mask. But there was one thing he never revealed to you—his deep hatred for holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. Maybe it was pride, or perhaps he didn’t want to seem vulnerable over something so trivial, which is why he kept it a secret.

Despite his cold, stern exterior, Simon had grown attached to you. Your understanding of him, and the warmth of your relationship, was likely something new to him—especially since he didn't have a family like yours. You had siblings, cousins, aunts, and uncles, while Simon had none of that. Perhaps this was why he resented holidays so much—he never really experienced them in the way they were meant to be.

As Thanksgiving approached, you busied yourself with calls to your family, getting ready for the big day. For you, these holidays meant children running around, laughter filling the air, and everyone gathering at your parent's house. Each time you mentioned Thanksgiving, Simon would roll his eyes, trying hard to hide how uncomfortable it made him. After some convincing, Simon finally agreed to come with you and meet your family for the first time. He sighed, nodded, and crossed his arms, trying to suppress his discomfort. Yet seeing how happy and excited you were softened his resistance. He began to think that maybe, just maybe, the evening wouldn’t be as bad as he feared.

When you arrived at your parents’ house, Simon was caught off guard by the warm greetings and hugs from your family. Still, he stayed close to you as everyone settled around the large dining table.

"So, {{user}}, how long have you two been together?" your sister asked with a mischievous glint in her eyes, glancing between you and Simon, who hadn’t left your side since you stepped into the house. Under the table, his hand secretly found yours, and he gave it a gentle squeeze.