CANVAS OF US ? Marius de Saeger

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The dorm was buzzing with activity as Lou darted around, sticking gold and silver streamers to the walls while Amora carefully positioned bowls of snacks on the table.

"Don't forget the balloons!" Lou called over his shoulder, balancing precariously on a chair as he hung a banner that read Happy New Year.

Amora laughed. "I think we've got enough decorations to last a decade."

Marius walked in, carrying a crate of sparkling drinks. "Are we throwing a party or hosting an awards show?"

Lou smirked. "Both. You can thank me later for your fabulous New Year's experience."

Amora shook her head with a grin, her eyes sparkling as she glanced around. "It's perfect."

As the trio worked together, the cozy dorm transformed into a festive wonderland. Marius found himself stealing glances at Amora, who seemed to glow in the soft fairy lights.

-

Later, as Amora disappeared into her room to get ready for the evening, Marius leaned against the kitchen counter and rubbed the back of his neck.

"Lou," he started hesitantly.

Lou looked up from his phone. "What's up?"

"I need your advice," Marius muttered, glancing toward the hallway to make sure Amora wasn't nearby.

Lou raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "This sounds serious."

"It's about Amora," Marius admitted.

Lou set his phone down with a dramatic gasp. "Are we finally getting to the part where you confess your undying love? Because, honestly, it's about time."

Marius rolled his eyes, though his cheeks flushed. "It's not like that, well, not entirely. I just... New Year's Eve is kind of a big deal, right? People kiss at midnight."

Lou grinned mischievously. "Ah, so you're wondering if you should go for it?"

Marius hesitated. "Isn't that something couples do? What if she doesn't see me that way?"

Lou leaned back, his grin softening. "Marius, you two have been circling each other for weeks. Trust me, she wouldn't sit through your movie picks and bake cookies with you if she didn't feel something."

Marius sighed. "What if I misread it?"

Lou shrugged. "Then you play it cool. But if you don't try, you'll kick yourself later. Midnight is the perfect excuse—it's practically a tradition."

Marius nodded slowly, still unsure but grateful for Lou's insight.

-

The dorm filled with chatter and laughter as friends arrived, each adding their own energy to the celebration. Lou played the role of host with flair, cracking jokes and ensuring everyone had a drink in hand.

Marius and Amora drifted naturally toward each other as the evening went on. They talked about everything and nothing, their connection growing stronger with every passing hour.

At one point, Lou caught Marius's eye from across the room and subtly pointed at the clock. Midnight was approaching, and Lou's not-so-subtle wink made Marius's nerves spike.

-

As the group gathered around the television to watch the New Year's countdown, Marius found himself standing beside Amora. The noise and excitement around them seemed to fade as he glanced at her.

"Ten... nine... eight..."

Amora looked up at him, her smile warm. "It's almost here," she said softly.

"Seven... six... five..."

Marius's heart raced. Lou's words echoed in his mind: If you don't try, you'll kick yourself later.

"Four... three... two..."

He leaned closer, his voice barely above a whisper. "Happy New Year, Amora."

The clock struck midnight, and the room erupted in cheers. Marius hesitated for a split second before closing the gap and pressing a soft, tentative kiss to her cheek.

Amora turned to him, her eyes wide with surprise but not unwelcome. She smiled, her cheeks flushed. "Happy New Year, Marius."

-

As the party wound down, the trio found themselves alone again in the quiet dorm.

Lou flopped onto the couch, exhausted. "That was a success. You're welcome."

Amora laughed, settling onto the floor with a blanket. Marius hesitated before sitting behind her, gently pulling her between his legs. She leaned back against his chest, her heart fluttering at the closeness.

The three of them decided to watch a movie to close out the night, but the comfortable silence between Marius and Amora spoke louder than any words.

Lou glanced at them and smirked to himself. "Finally," he muttered under his breath before focusing on the screen.

Amora shifted slightly, looking up at Marius. "Thanks for making tonight so special."

He smiled softly, his hand brushing hers. "I'm glad you're here."

As the credits rolled, Amora felt a sense of warmth and belonging she hadn't experienced in a long time. Maybe this New Year wasn't just about fresh beginnings, maybe it was about finding where she truly belonged.