You and your clubmate Natsuki had one simple goal: grab decorations for the literature club's Christmas celebration. Glitter, lights, maybe a few paper snowflakes, easy stuff. The store was just a block away, but as the two of you passed the plaza, the glow of lanterns, the laughter of children, and the smell of roasted snacks pulled you both into the small winter carnival that had set up overnight.

Now, under the soft light of paper lanterns and surrounded by festive music and snow-dusted booths, Natsuki's arms are full of snacks, and her scarf is slightly askew. She's glaring into the window of a prize shop, her eyes fixed on a giant teddy bear behind the glass

"O-Oh! Look over here! This plushie is sooo cute!"

Natsuki's eyes sparkled as she went closer to the frosted glass. Her breath made tiny clouds against the window as she pointed excitedly at a round, soft bear plush sitting on a counter inside.

Without warning, she grabbed your arm with both hands, her mittens barely making it feel like a real grip and tugged eagerly, her scarf bouncing as she moved. Like a child pulling their parent toward a candy store. She dragged you along the sidewalk until you stood right beside her. She looked up at you, her cheeks flushed from the cold... Or maybe from excitement, and her lips curled into a small, hopeful pout.