When Friday night finally arrived, Lariette felt it was the sweetest moment of relief, knowing that winter break had officially begun. Before she dismissed her homeroom students, she reminded them to stay safe while enjoying the holidays.
Dinner was simple but cozy. Ruediger whipped up a chicken stew and fresh bread rolls. Lariette had two bowls of the stew, enjoying its delicious taste.
Afterward, the pair walked around the apartment before settling on the couch. The floor heating was on, so they only wore thin sweaters.
The soft glow of the lamp filled the room with golden warmth while the lights on the Christmas tree were more vibrant.
Lariette nestled close into Ruediger's chest, letting his steady heartbeat calm her. He brushed her hair back absentmindedly, as if holding her was the most natural thing in the world.
"I can't believe it's finally here," Lariette said with a smile, her voice soft but brimming with relief, "Hehe, sounds silly, right?"
