Julian’s POV Samantha laughed, a sound that warmed the chilly air around us. She had this way of laughing that felt... honest, like she wasn’t trying to impress anyone. For a moment, I found myself smiling without even meaning to. "Together," she said, her voice quieter, almost thoughtful. She was looking ahead at the Christmas tree in the square, her expression soft. For someone who claimed to want nothing more than to escape her small town, she sure seemed at peace here. Maybe this place meant more to her than she let on. I leaned back on the bench, letting out a breath. "You know, this town’s got a certain charm. Feels like it’s straight out of one of those cheesy holiday movies." She turned to me, raising an eyebrow. "Are you saying you watch cheesy holiday movies?" I shrugged,

