Chapter One: Winter’s First Meeting

The icy wind bit into his skin as he stepped out of the station, his breath turning into small clouds in the cold December air. The park was quieter than usual, lit up by soft Christmas lights hanging from the trees. He clutched the small box of chocolates in his hand, his fingers trembling—not just from the cold but from anticipation. Tonight was the night he would finally meet her.

They had met online, in a group chat filled with strangers who soon became friends. What started as lighthearted teasing and casual flirting grew into something deeper. She had been the first to confess her feelings, catching him off guard. But as their conversations became longer and more intimate, he realized he had fallen for her, too.

And now, after months of waiting, they were finally in the same place.

He spotted her first, standing near a park bench, her coat wrapped tightly around her. When their eyes met, she smiled—a soft, knowing smile that sent a rush of warmth through him.

"You're shivering," she teased as he approached.

He laughed nervously, rubbing his hands together. "It's colder than I expected."

"Come here."

She pulled him into a hug, and for a moment, everything felt perfect. They talked for what felt like hours but was only twenty minutes. He handed her the chocolates, and she accepted them with a soft thank you. Then, just like that, the night ended. They both went home, promising to meet again soon.

But soon never came.