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Maeve and Otis walked through the bustling Christmas market in Cambridge, their hearts filled with excitement and anticipation. The air was alive with the sound of laughter and the smells of hot chocolate and roasted chestnuts.
Ever since Maeve returned from America they spent a lot of time together. They didn't put a label on what they had. They hadn't kissed, not since that one evening in the rain. The duo was more than content just being together.
They wandered through the market, admiring the colorful displays and sampling the various treats on offer. They stopped at a stand that specialized in special kinds of mustard, trying each one and laughing at the funny names and flavors.
Next, they came across a stand that sold Christmas-flavored candy, with spices such as ginger and cinnamon. They each bought a bag and exchanged sweets, enjoying the warm and spicy flavors.
The next stand sold glühwein, a delicious drink Otis loved in December and couldn't stand for the rest of the year. The copper kettle was dangling over the fire as the clerk scooped out a big mug of delicious mulled wine for them.
As they walked, they followed the Christmas lights that twinkled overhead, leading them to a large Christmas tree that stood at the center of the market. They sat on hand-carved wooden benches beneath the tree, sipping their mulled wine and watching the people pass by.
"This is so nice," Maeve said, smiling at Otis. "I'm so glad you decided to invite me."
"Me too," Otis replied, taking her hand in his. "I've missed you so much, Maeve."
They sat in silence for a while, enjoying the warmth and comfort of each other's company. Then, without a word, they leaned in and shared a sweet and tender kiss.
As they kissed, the world around them seemed to fade away. All their stress and worries are gone. They were lost in each other and when they finally parted, they were left breathless and dizzy, their faces flushed with happiness.
"Finally.." Maeve uttered softly, eliciting an approving grunt from Otis.
They sat together for a while longer, watching the people and the lights and enjoying the Christmas spirit. Then, hand in hand, they stood and walked through the market, bought some trinkets here and there, and enjoyed each other's company.
As the night wore on, they found themselves drawn back to the big Christmas tree, its lights shining brightly in the darkness. They sat beneath it once more, feeling the warmth and magic of the season.
"I love you, Maeve," Otis whispered, looking into her eyes.
"I love you too, Otis," Maeve replied, her heart full of joy and happiness.
They sat together under the tree, lost in the moment and each other, their love shining brightly like the Christmas lights above.