CANVAS OF US ? Marius de Saeger

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The Christmas market in Brussels was alive with the glow of twinkling lights and the scent of roasted chestnuts filling the air. The snow had fallen lightly overnight, coating the cobblestone streets in a fresh, white blanket. Amora and Marius wandered through the stalls, hand in hand, surrounded by the festive energy of the season.

"This is perfect," Amora said, her breath forming misty clouds in the chilly air. "I can't believe I haven't done this before."

Marius smiled, his cheeks rosy from the cold. "Well, now you have. And you're stuck with me for the entire night."

She laughed softly, squeezing his hand. "Not complaining. Definitely better than being alone."

They stopped at a stall offering homemade hot chocolate, its rich aroma warming them instantly. Marius bought two cups, and they wandered further into the market, their breaths creating little clouds in the frosty air.

As they walked, Lou appeared out of nowhere, his expression mischievous. "Ah, there you two are! Getting all cozy without me?"

Marius shot him a glance. "You've been spending too much time with Amora. You've picked up her need for ridiculous commentary."

Lou laughed, linking his arm with Amora's. "Not possible. I have my own brand of chaos. Speaking of, we're ice skating later, so brace yourselves."

Marius groaned, rolling his eyes. "Why do I get volunteered for these things?"

"Because it's fun to watch you fall," Lou teased, grinning wide.

Amora shook her head, giggling. "You're impossible."

-

As the evening deepened, the market grew quieter, and the glow from the stalls reflected beautifully off the soft snow. Amora and Marius found a quiet corner tucked away behind one of the larger stalls, where they could watch the city unfold without being surrounded by crowds.

"I didn't think it could be this peaceful," Amora said, her voice soft against the quiet hum of the market. "It's like a little world of its own."

"It's special," Marius agreed, pulling her a bit closer. "Especially when it's just us."

They stood in silence for a moment, soaking in the scene—the warmth of each other's presence, the lights twinkling, and the occasional laughter from a distance.

Lou's voice broke the moment as he approached again, grinning wide. "Alright, enough of this sappy stuff. Time to find more food."

Marius rolled his eyes. "Always food with you."

"You love it," Lou said, poking Marius in the side playfully.

Amora watched the exchange with amusement, her eyes soft and smile genuine. She couldn't deny how lucky she felt in moments like these—surrounded by laughter and warmth in a magical, snowy Christmas market.

-

Later that evening, back at the dorm, the trio decided to settle in for a movie night. Lou flopped onto the couch dramatically, claiming the best spot, while Marius reserved the floor cushions for Amora.

"You're all set," Marius said, pulling a blanket over her lap. "Comfortable?"

"Perfect," Amora said, nestling into the warmth. "Now if Lou would just quiet down."