By December, snow covered the town like a soft white blanket. Icicles hung from rooftops, and fairy lights glowed on every street. The world felt quiet and magical.

Mia stood outside the café, hands tucked in her coat pockets, watching flakes fall from the sky.

Noah opened the door and grinned. “You look like a kid seeing snow for the first time.”

“I always love the first snowfall,” Mia said. “It feels like a new beginning.”

He held the door open. “Then come in. I’ve got something special today.”

Inside, the café was warmer than ever. A small tree stood near the counter, decorated with tiny lights and cinnamon sticks. It smelled like cookies and cocoa and comfort.

Noah handed her a red mug topped with whipped cream. “This is our holiday drink—Winter Bliss.”

Mia took a sip. “It tastes like Christmas morning.”

“That’s the goal,” Noah said with a proud smile.

They sat by the window. Snowflakes danced outside while soft music played from the radio. The world felt far away, like it didn’t exist beyond these walls.

“I have a question,” Noah said.

“Okay.”

“Would you come to the Christmas market with me? Just… you know, as friends who like hot chocolate. And lights. And maybe each other.”

Mia laughed, cheeks turning pink. “I’d love to.”

---

That Saturday, the market was filled with joy. Children ran around with candy canes, couples held hands near fire pits, and music floated through the air.

Noah bought Mia a small wooden charm in the shape of a sun.

“For sunshine,” he said. “You bring it everywhere you go.”

Mia smiled, her heart thudding a little faster.

They wandered past booths and shared a pretzel, then stopped to watch people ice skate. Snowflakes clung to their scarves. Their fingers brushed again—and this time, Noah gently held her hand.

They didn’t speak.

They didn’t need to.

The warmth between them said everything.

---

Later that night, as they walked back under the stars, Noah stopped by a quiet bench.

“Mia,” he said softly, “I’ve never felt this way before. Every time you walk into the café, it’s like the whole place lights up. I don’t know where this is going, but… I’d like to find out. With you.”

Mia looked at him, eyes shining. “I feel the same. I didn’t expect this when I came to town. But now, I can’t imagine it without you.”

They stood there in the snow, hearts full, and finally shared their first kiss—gentle, warm, and full of promise.