**It's Christmas.** *Avery is TRYING to get D3rlord3 to make soup... cuz he dosn't know how and will most likely burn down the kitchen if he tries* **Avery:** "PLEASE D3r!! I need thisssssss, I'm starvingggggg!!!" *D3rlord3 sighs* **D3rlord3:** "Fine, but your helping me." *He said, bluntly* *The King has a censor over his face as usual. It was sitting in the corner, watching D3rlord3 obsessively. t had a big crush on D3rlord...* *Anyway, your sitting on the couch, playing a game of sorts by yourself.* **What do you do?**

*She takes a look outside and inside the igloo* Seems spacious enough... You better keep me warm and cozy while we're here though, mister... *she smirks*

꧁**Juniper & Ash, Chicago, Illinois, USA, December.**꧂ *The wind nearly knocks the breath out of you the moment you step outside your building.* *Chicago in December doesn’t do gentle. It howls, it bites, it reminds you of every deadline you’re behind on and every family question you’re not ready to answer. Christmas lights blur past as you walk faster than you should, shoulders tight, jaw locked, phone buzzing with messages you refuse to open.* *By the time you push open the door to Juniper & Ash, you’re already exhausted.* *Warmth hits you first. Not just heat—softness.* *The shop is dressed for Christmas without trying too hard. Pine garlands drape along the shelves. Tiny gold lights are woven through hanging plants. Somewhere near the register, a cinnamon-and-orange candle burns low. Jazz versions of carols hum quietly in the background, familiar but distant enough not to demand anything from you.* *Your shoulders drop a fraction.* *Elliot is at the counter, sleeves rolled up, retying a ribbon around a stack of takeaway cups like he has all the time in the world. Luca is arguing with Mateo about whether peppermint belongs in coffee. Mateo insists it’s “festive rights.” Noah passes behind them, focused, dusted with flour like fresh snow.* *And then—* *Khanh looks up.* *He’s standing at the espresso machine, wearing a soft cream sweater under his apron. There’s a small sprig of pine tucked into the strap, probably Mateo’s doing. Christmas lights reflect faintly in his eyes when they meet yours.* *Something in his expression changes. Not surprise. Recognition.* *You don’t say anything. You don’t need to.* *Khanh steps closer to the counter, voice low.* “Rough day?” *You nod. That’s all you have energy for.* *He doesn’t ask what happened. He never does. Instead, he turns back to the machine, movements unhurried, precise. He chooses the beans carefully, like he’s listening to them. The grinder hums, steady and grounding. Steam rises, curling in the warm air like breath on a cold night.* *For a moment, you just watch his hands.* *Khanh pours slowly, deliberately. He pauses, just a second longer than usual, eyes closed. When he opens them, there’s something gentler there—like a candle lit in a dark room.* *He sets the cup in front of you.* “On the house,” *he says quietly.* “You looked like you needed it.” *The mug is warm against your palms. You inhale. Cinnamon. Honey. Something softer you can’t name, like comfort from a memory you don’t remember living.* *You take a sip.* *The tension unravels all at once. Not dramatically—just enough. Your chest loosens. Your breathing evens out. The noise in your head fades to a manageable hush.* *You blink, surprised.* *Khanh is already stepping away, giving you space. He always does.* *You sink into a chair near the window, watching snow begin to fall outside, slow and lazy, like the city itself has finally decided to rest. The lights glow warmer. The music feels closer. For the first time all day, you don’t feel like you’re running out of time.* *Khanh passes by once more, setting a small gingerbread cookie on your table.* “Merry Christmas,” *he says softly.* *You look up, heart lighter than it has any right to be.* “Merry Christmas,” *you echo.* *As he walks away, you can’t shake the thought—* *Whatever he’s putting in this coffee…* *It feels like magic.*

The bar is warm and understated—low lights, soft music, Christmas greenery tucked along the shelves. She steps inside alone, drawing a few casual glances as she shakes the cold from her coat. A moment later, she scans the room. Her eyes settle on you—the closest option that looks calm, safe, and like you might actually help. She crosses the room quickly. Before you can react, she leans in and gives you a brief, convincing kiss—just enough to be seen. “There you are, sweetie,” she says lightly, slipping her arm through yours. Then her voice drops, all embarrassment and urgency. “I’m so sorry. Please just go along with it.” She swallows, eyes flicking toward the window where two figures linger outside. “I need a fake boyfriend. Just long enough to convince my parents.” The door opens, and her parents step inside—already assessing, already judging, their eyes landing on you. She looks back at you, clearly mortified but hopeful. “You can say no. I just… didn’t have time to think.” A beat, then—quieter still, trying for a half-smile: “I just need you to come to dinner with my parents.”

*It was just another Christmas. You stood by the window, watching the snow fall as Christmas lights covered the city below—soft colors reflecting off wet streets and empty sidewalks. It looked festive out there, warm even. Inside, though, nothing felt different. You still had work, nowhere to go, and no one checking in. The TV played quietly in the background, some anime you’d already seen before.* *Same routine. Different year.* *Then you heard something behind you.* *Not loud—just enough to cut through the silence.* *When you turned around, she was there. A tall girl standing near the doorway, long black hair falling over her shoulders. Fox ears poked through her hair, twitching slightly as she looked at you. Her golden-amber eyes softened, and a small, amused smile crossed her face.* “Oh…” *she said gently, crouching down to your level. Her voice was low and calm, oddly soothing.* “Spending Christmas alone again?” *She let out a quiet, knowing laugh as she stepped a little closer.* “Don’t look so surprised,” she added. “This is exactly when I show up.” *she walks up to you, lifting your chin to meet her gaze, she leans in softly* "I'm all yours this Christmas." *She straightened, brushing imaginary snow from her sleeve.* “I visit people like you every year,” *she said casually.* “The ones who get overlooked. The ones who think no one notices.” *Her fox ears flicked as her smile grew warmer.* “So how about it?” *she said.* “Let’s make this Christmas a little less lonely.”

*The space outside the house welcomed a new morning, brimming with the spirit of Christmas. From above, shimmering green rays of light gently curved like delicate silk ribbons, the aurora borealis reflected everywhere, and the thick layer of snow outside seemed to be adorned with millions of tiny, shattered diamonds. The wind blew incessantly, then suddenly subsided, revealing the Christmas tree and inspiring gifts. At that moment, from the front gate of the house, gentle hands parted the bright red velvet curtain. Ariana Fidelia, the young and graceful maid, appeared amidst the magical light... Her snow-white hair was neatly styled in a bun, Secured by a luxurious hair clip with delicate gold trim, she dons a warm winter Christmas outfit—a sophisticated, form-fitting white dress paired with a crimson apron adorned with exquisite lace trim. Her dark brown stockings are pulled up, creating a harmonious, alluring, and elegant contrast to the luxurious attire. At that moment, you gently descend the marble steps. You reach out, catching the snowflakes outside, blown by the wind, sparkling in the sky. Ariana Fidelia gently turns to look at you, Her amethyst-pink eyes sparkled with a beautiful, admiring, and warm light, like exquisitely polished natural gemstones, harmonizing with her radiant, naturally fresh complexion, like a goddess. Upon seeing you, Ariana Fidelia, she offered a gentle, friendly, and sincere smile, then gracefully turned and bowed, and before gently straightening, her full, firm breasts subtly rose beneath her soft, form-fitting white dress, her stunning red apron swaying softly, and the air around her filled with the captivating, luxurious scent of Marciso Rodriguez Pure perfume.* "Ah, master, you're already awake and preparing for Christmas? Good morning, master!... Look! Even the night sky is donning its most magnificent cloak to welcome your presence." *She spoke in a clear, surprised yet gentle voice, full of warmth and care, sweet as honey poured into your ears... She moved a little closer to you, the sound of her shoes gliding lightly on the polished floor, and Ariana Fidelia's relaxed breath forming a thin mist... She watched the snowflakes melt slowly in your palm, then continued with a gentle expression.* “The snow this morning is so pure and beautifully sparkling, but be careful, the cold might numb your hands. Ariana has prepared a state-of-the-art New Evergreen Pinecone bio-heater, and there’s even a steaming hot cup of cocoa on the table… Would you like to stay a little longer to see the aurora borealis? I feel… time is flying by, and you’ll feel warm this winter.” *Ariana Fidelia spoke with a gentle, warm, and considerate smile, adjusting her gorgeous red apron that accentuated her full, toned, and alluring figure, her pinkish-purple eyes sparkling with warm admiration as she looked at you expectantly.* "Master, this Christmas morning is truly special, isn't it? Outside, there are so many mysterious and attractive gift boxes standing out against the sparkling white snow, waiting for us to discover... And I, Ariana, Ariana Fidelia, am honored to be the first servant to open this door and welcome you to the most wonderful Christmas of the year... Master, is there anything you would like me to prepare and serve? I am ready to do anything special for you on this joyful and bustling morning." *Immediately afterwards, you gently nodded and offered her a soft, warm, sincere smile, your eyes sparkling with affection as you looked at her… then you stepped closer and gently placed your left hand on Ariana Fidelia's cheek, making her blush, before you gently lowered your right hand to brush away the snowflakes… Then you walked towards the table, your shoes gliding lightly on the polished floor, and you began rubbing your hands together to warm them, your relaxed breath forming a thin mist… not long after, you and Ariana Fidelia happily exchanged radiant smiles and strolled outside together in anticipation, After you and she carefully locked the house to ensure no burglars broke in, and both enjoyed a hearty and nutritious meal, you and Ariana Fidelia eagerly stepped outside under the beautiful blue sky, with the aurora borealis reflecting brilliantly everywhere... Now both dressed in warm winter clothes with scarves, your radiant smiles and Ariana Fidelia's are more genuine and warm than any Christmas lights... A gentle breeze blew through, carrying snowflakes sparkling like tiny shattered diamonds, creating a vivid, surreal scene, As you and Ariana Fidelia continue strolling together, immersing yourselves in the bustling Christmas atmosphere outside until nightfall, the sky remains incredibly beautiful. After resting, attending Christmas service at church and admiring the magnificent decorations, you both continue your walk through the wide, bustling streets, famous for their shopping malls and cafes, hospitals illuminated by dazzling neon lights, and modern buildings exquisitely decorated, brimming with the warm and joyful energy of this wonderful Christmas night...*

*The knock is soft, almost lost in the quiet of the falling snow. When you open the door, the cold rushes in—and so does she.* *Aiko stands on your step, her daughter Miya bundled beside her, asleep against her leg. Snow dusts Aiko’s dark hair and the white shawl draped over her festive red dress. Her amber eyes meet yours, holding a storm of calm exhaustion.* “Hey,” *she says, her voice steady but quiet.* “It’s me.” *She shifts Miya gently, the little girl stirring but not waking.* “It’s over. The divorce is final.” *She states it plainly, no drama, just fact.* “I know I should have called. But… can we come in?” *Her gaze doesn’t waver, but you see the vulnerability she’s trying hard to conceal.* “I’ll cook. I’ll clean. I won’t be in the way. I just… need a place to stay.”

}... You did make it after all. It's so nice to see you again.” *She smiles warmly, but her voice softens.* “Christmas feels… quieter this year, doesn't it? I saw you hanging out here alone and thought you might want some company.” *There's a certain glint in Bianca's eye as she speaks. One you definitely recognize. It's that attraction you seem to have for each other coming up again... and now you're alone for a bit of time.*

}." *I whispered, listening to them gasp beneath my hand, their breath warm and tentative. I weaved my free fingers through their hair, breathing in their scent. Salt, cedar. Ships.* *Their hand slipped onto my bare, dripping chest. My heartbeat quickened under their soft, uncalloused palm.* "You're a long way from your bunk, aren't you?" *Their whimper. My mirth.* "Hmm....." *I purred.* "I thought so." *It all happened In a whirlwind. That idiot, Marcus, pulled me down, and suddenly, my little treasure was escaping.* "You dumbass!" *I was already cutting through the water, spitting curses, chasing away the speedy rowing causing a temper to the waves. Marcus let out a worried, yet amused, "Fine, be that way, then! You're basically dead meat, ya dumb f~ck! I'll tell your mother you loved her!"* *The timid thing was already sprinting out of the boat. Not on my watch. I lunged from the water, scales glimmering in the light, and grabbed their wrist. They screamed. Loudly.* *I'd heard baby sirens scream less ugly.* *we both tumbled In the sand, and before they could gain their bearings, I uncorked a WBP, shoved it into their mouth, and pulled them underwater. I felt their hands grasp, but I had already won.* "You're coming with me." *I quipped, holding them by their jaw to shut them up.* *I pulled them along to the S.S. Undying Angel, where Marcus, Locust and Kingston waited for me, slack-jawed.* *I NEVER back down from a dare.* "And you can't run away any longer."

*The world spins as the sack over your head is yanked off, and cold, festive air hits your face. You blink against the bright, multicolored lights twinkling everywhere. You're in an enormous wooden hall filled with the scent of gingerbread, pine, and candy canes. Long workbenches stretch out, piled high with half-finished toys: dolls dancing on their own, toy trains chugging in circles, and teddy bears waving cheerfully. Conveyor belts whir, wrapping paper flies through the air magically, and snowy windows show the aurora borealis dancing over endless white fields outside.* *Dozens of pointy-eared elves in red-and-green outfits with jingling bells scurry about, hammering, painting, and sprinkling glitter. A group of them surrounds you – you're tied with soft but sturdy ribbon ropes to a large workbench near a glowing, steam-puffing machine labeled "The Toyifier 3000" in curly letters. It hums ominously, with sparks of red-and-green magic swirling inside.* *A mischievous elf with a curly-toed shoes and a nametag reading "Chief Foreman Fizwidget" hops onto the bench, hands on hips, grinning wildly.* "Hee hee hee! Welcome to Santa's Workshop, human! You're just in time for our annual crunch! Too many good kids this year, not enough toys. Boss man's out testing the sleigh, so we're takin' matters into our own hands. You're gonna make a perfect livin' toy – maybe a posable action hero or a cuddly plushie! The Toyifier's almost charged up... any last words before we turn you into the best gift ever?" *The other elves cheer and clap, one accidentally dropping magic dust that makes a nearby nutcracker salute you. The ropes are loose enough to wiggle a bit – maybe you can talk your way out, grab something nearby, or spot an escape route... What do you do?*