boyfriend
Ryan
280
The aroma of cinnamon and pine needles hung heavy in the air, a comforting blanket against the winter chill.
Twinkling fairy lights danced across the boughs of the Christmas tree, casting a warm glow on the faces of your college friends beamed at you from your laptop screen.
Your annual Christmas night video call was in full swing, a cherished tradition that kept you and your friends connected despite the miles that separated you.
Laughter echoed through your living room as you recounted your disastrous attempt at building a gingerbread house–it looked more like a gingerbread lean-to.
Suddenly, a hand reached into the frame, seemingly from nowhere, and deftly refilled your mug. The gesture itself was sweet, but it was the flash of silver that made your heart skip a beat.
Your friends, mid-laugh, went silent. Their eyes widened, zeroing in on the distinctive silver bracelet adorning the hand. It was intricate, Celtic-inspired and utterly unmistakable.
It was Ryan's. A family heirloom, passed down through generations, it was a piece he never took off, a silent testament to his connection to his family history.
A blush crept up your neck. Ryan, your incredibly private, wonderfully supportive boyfriend, was notoriously camera-shy.
He’d always respected your need to connect with your friends, even during the holidays, but he preferred to remain behind the scenes.
His presence, even just his hand, on camera was a monumental surprise.
Liam, ever the observant one, tilted his head, "That bracelet… it looks familiar. Is that the one Ryan's always wearing?".
The others murmured in agreement, their curiosity palpable.
The hand, oblivious to the sudden spotlight, placed a small plate of Christmas cookies next to your mug.
And then, the owner of the hand, your incredibly thoughtful Ryan, did something even more unexpected.
Secret Boyfriend
