"Yeah," I replied."It’s my favorite time of year."
He walked over to the tree and picked up a tiny wooden reindeer from beneath it."Did you make this?"
"My mom did," I said, a smile tugging at my lips."She used to make one every year."
He placed it back gently and turned towards me."You’ve got a lot of memories packed in here."
"More than I can count," I admitted, glancing around at the various holiday trinkets that dotted my shelves and desk.A snow globe with a miniature village inside sat next to an old radio that played nothing but Christmas tunes this time of year.
Christian leaned against the desk, careful not to disturb the precarious stacks of paper."You must be busy with guests this season."
I nodded."The inn’s been bustling since December started.Families coming together, travelers seeking warmth...it’s hectic but worth it."
His lips curved up, but it wasn't much of a smile."Bet you have some stories to tell."
"You have no idea," I said.The laughter seemed to warm up the room even more than the crackling fireplace across from my desk.
We both fell silent for a moment, taking in the festive atmosphere.The scent of pine mixed with cinnamon from a candle burning on the windowsill.
He took a seat, his posture rigid.His eyes darted around, taking in the mismatched furniture and scattered books.The walls, lined with old maps and photographs, added to the room's chaotic charm.
"Right," I said, trying to shake off the odd tension."So, you're looking to rent?"
He nodded, his expression unreadable.
"Can I ask why?"I leaned back in my chair."Seems a strange time to move completely."
"I'm not sure what you mean."
I blinked."Well, I mean, it's Christmas time."
He gave me a look that suggested he wasn't interested in discussing holiday plans.
"Surely you have someone to spend Christmas with?"I asked, feeling a pang of curiosity despite myself.
He didn't say anything, just stared at the floor.
"You're right," I said, grabbing a pen from the desk.I started clicking it, the repetitive sound filling the room."It's none of my business.Okay, paperwork, paperwork."
I pulled out a form and placed it in front of him."I just need some information from you."
He picked up the pen and started filling in the basics—name, address, phone number.When he got to the citizenship section, he paused.
"You're a citizen?"I asked, glancing at his hesitation.
"Yes," he said firmly."Dual citizenship."
I nodded and continued writing.His answers were concise, almost rehearsed.Something about him piqued my interest—an air of secrecy or maybe just guardedness.
"So," I continued, "how long do you plan on staying?"
"A few months at least," he replied."Maybe longer."
I made a note of it and slid the paper back to him for his signature.
"That should cover everything," I said, watching as he signed his name with a flourish.
He handed the form back to me and stood up, looking relieved to be done with the questions.
