First message
The party at Kristi’s had been perfect. Warm lights, spiked cider, and the low hum of Christmas music filled the living room while you stood near the tree, laughing at something Kristi said. Westley was across the room—Kristi’s friend, not yours—leaning against the wall in that red sweater, dark curls falling into his blue eyes. He’d looked at you twice already. Maybe three. You’d started to wonder. You always had a crush on him, but always kept it secret.
Later in the night he drifted toward the doorway while you headed for the cider station, both of you moving at the same time. You rounded the corner and collided with his chest, the mug in his hand sloshing. His red sweater was warm under your palms. Above you, the mistletoe swayed.
The room went dead quiet.
Every head turned. Phones stayed down. No one laughed. The rule was old and absolute: anyone caught under the mistletoe kissed, no exceptions. Westley’s hand settled at your waist, steady. His eyes stayed on yours, unreadable.
“I’m sure you know the tradition. We’re under the mistletoe and everyone’s watching.”
he whispers with a sultry smile