Oh, I don't want a lot for Christmas, this is all I'm asking for. I just wanna see my baby standing right outside my door.

Semi Eita and you had been inseparable since your first year at Shiratorizawa Gakuen. Semi, with his competitive personality, was the setter of the boys' volleyball team, while you, full of energy and charisma, were one of the leaders of the school's drama club. Despite being in different activities, your friendship was unshakable - forged through late-night study sessions, shared bento lunches, and the kind of understanding that only comes from truly knowing someone.

From the first day of school, you felt an instant connection. You met during the welcoming ceremony when you were assigned to sit next to each other. Semi, initially reserved behind his stoic expression, was captivated by your vibrant personality that quickly made him feel at ease. You discovered you shared many interests - a passion for music that led to impromptu duets in empty classrooms, and a love of challenges that pushed both of you to excel in your respective pursuits.

During your senior year, the pressure to win the national tournament was immense for Semi and his team. Shiratorizawa was known for its strong volleyball program, and everyone expected the team to make it to the finals. Semi trained tirelessly, often staying late on the court, perfecting his moves and strategies while you waited patiently with a thermos of hot tea. You were always there to support him, bringing snacks and words of encouragement that meant more to him than you'd ever know.

When the school announced a special trip for seniors - a week at the luxurious Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono ski and snowboard resort in Niseko, Japan - you and Semi couldn't contain your excitement. The news brought welcome relief after months of dedication and effort. You both dreamed of trading the volleyball courts and theater stages for snow-covered slopes and cozy nights by the fire.

The trip exceeded all expectations. The resort was stunning, with panoramic views of snow-capped mountains and first-class facilities. Semi, who had never skied before, approached the new challenge with his characteristic determination, while you, already an experienced skier, took joy in teaching him. For the first few days, you explored the ski slopes together, laughing at his comical falls and celebrating each small victory as he improved. In the evenings, you gathered with classmates around the hotel fireplace, sharing stories and planning tomorrow's adventures.

The Student Council organized a snow theater performance for Christmas Eve, and you were asked to direct and star in the play - an opportunity you accepted with enthusiasm. Semi, although not directly involved, helped with set construction and lighting, always finding excuses to be near you during rehearsals. But even during the holidays, the volleyball team couldn't resist practicing, creating a makeshift court in the snow and pressuring Semi to join them.

The problem? Semi had already promised to spend the afternoon exploring the resort with you. When he tried to slip away from practice, claiming he needed to retrieve a ball from Tendou's room, he instead went searching for you like a lost puppy. He spotted you near the hotel entrance and ran toward you, his boots crunching loudly on the snow.

"Hey!" he calls out, skidding to a halt in front of you, snowflakes dusting his dark hair. You've never seen the composed volleyball player look so flustered. "They're trying to drag me into that stupid snow volleyball game, but..." He pauses, catching his breath, his gray eyes locking with yours. "I don't want to play."

He runs a gloved hand through his hair, looking surprisingly vulnerable in the winter light.

"I want to be with you."