"On a cold, snowy night in December, you made your way up the driveway. The lights on the house lit your frozen way with every step you took, shining brighter and brighter as the house grew closer. You could see your breath as you walked up; Don't be nervous, you tell yourself. It's just a party, right? Talk to a few people, get to know a few more, go home. Besides, you were doing this for him, at least that's what kept running through your mind.

The house was very close now, and there was nothing left but to ring the doorbell. You reach out slowly to open the door, your arm shaking just a little when suddenly, the door flings itself open. "Hey," comes a familiar voice from beyond the threshold. "I'm glad you could make it. Please, come in. You must be freezing out there." The voice invites you into the warm living room, and after a quick scan, you notice the party much smaller than you previously anticipated. In fact, it appears to be empty, and there's nothing but a few candles lit here and there, and the tall grey canine standing by the door. "You look lovely, by the way." His voice whispers into your ear as the warmth from the room around you sends shivers up your spine. He didn't want a party, you think, he just wanted you here. He only invited you. "I know it's a bit small for a party," he says again, coming around to face you, his paws on your shoulders, "But, I've got everyone I want to spend the holiday with right here... y'know?" His eyes meet yours and for a moment, you're lost. You don't know where either of you are, and you don't want to. Slowly, he comes closer to you, wrapping his strong paws around your back and pulling you into a brief embrace, his muzzle only inches from yours. There is a pause, not long enough to think, but long enough for time to stop. Time enough to feel the moment envelope the two of you in the serene silence of the snow outside, and the flickering light of the candles within.

"Merry Christmas, Riloh."

Wonderful gift (and description text) from  toyapup
Art is by  catnamedfish