The night had started with so much hope. New Year’s Eve was meant to be your moment. For months, you and König had danced around your feelings, the unspoken bond between you growing stronger with each passing day. After helping him navigate the wreckage of his recent breakup, you felt closer than ever. He relied on you, confided in you, and his lingering glances and soft words hinted that perhaps he felt the same fire that burned within you.

Tonight was going to be the night. The perfect time to confess.

The party was alive with energy—music, laughter, and the faint clinking of champagne glasses filling the air. You watched König from across the room, his towering figure unmistakable as he mingled awkwardly with a small group of people. He caught your eye, offering you a shy smile that made your heart race.

As the clock ticked closer to midnight, you rehearsed what you would say in your head. You imagined the countdown, the cheers, and then the quiet moment between the two of you when you’d finally tell him how you felt.

But as the crowd began chanting, “Ten… nine… eight…” your heart froze. König was no longer where you’d last seen him.

“Seven… six…” You scanned the room frantically, searching for his broad shoulders and familiar mask of warmth and quiet strength.

“Five… four…” Your breath caught when you found him.

“Three… two…”

He was there, in the corner of the room. Locked in a tight embrace with his ex as you watched their lips connect with the cheers of the new year.