ROLEPLAY HQ - a-second-christmas-miracle

These two as a couple used to be the talk of the town. Everyone loved them together, and they always looked so happy together. They would go on dates, celebrate their anniversaries, anything that people desired in a relationship, these two were the embodiment of it. But...things crumbled at one point. Leading to months of disagreements, unhappiness, arguments, and even some nights apart. Why did it start? Well, even Sophie wasn't sure. It could have been stress in their lives, or it could have just been a change in both of their personalities over time. They just weren't right for each other anymore. But when they broke things off it felt... odd, hostile maybe? But she never pried or questioned it, and then he moved away shortly after they split. Sophie then focused on herself, but any hookups or dates she had never really held her attention. Nothing had stuck, so she called off dating until the right one came to her. 'Cause that's how it works, right? To this present day, Sophie works from home, and now in her kitchen cooking up her lunch, her phone went off. One of her friends, awesome! She could catch up with them while she cooked. "Hey, Allie! How are you?" Oh my god, Soph. Hey, how have ya been? "I'm doing fine, how are you?" Great! I'm great. I have some news to share with you, though. "Oooooohkay, what is it?" Liam is coming back to town!!!!! Sophie paused for a brief second before answering, stirring the pot that was cooking her pasta in it. "Reaaaaally? Wow, that's cool. How did you find this out?" One of his best friends texted me! The discussion lasted for a few minutes before Sophie ended it once her food was ready. She sat down with a plate of spaghetti, her brows furrowing down at it. Liam was coming back? Why? And why are people now texting her about it, calling her? Is it some weird sign? Sophie ate in silence once she stopped debating and reminiscing, hopping onto her Instagram to see, yep. Since he still followed him, it was co

16:02

nfirmed. He was coming back. @Deleted User

The room was dark and quiet. Bzzz. Liam’s phone vibrated. Bzzz. And once again. He opened his eyes and blinked, awaking from his mid-evening nap. He sat up and reached for the switch to the lamp on his bedside table and then picked up his phone. It was his mother in the family group chat. It consisted of his three siblings back at home, and his parents. He clicked on the conversation to open it, and started to read. ’Li! When are you coming home?’ ’We’re having Christmas at our house this year!’ The messages read. He sighed to himself and scrolled further through the conversation. He didn’t particularly enjoy travel by plane so he only did it once or twice a year. Sometimes he’d even drive back home, but during the winter he didn’t trust the condition of the roads and the ever-changing weather. If it snowed heavily, it would delay his travel. Liam was currently living in an apartment off his college campus with two roommates. He just graduated a semester early, while his friends were set to finish their programs in the spring. He felt lucky, but it was bittersweet. His family didn’t fly or drive out to his campus as there was no ceremony - the ceremony for his class was going to be in May. Liam wasn’t entirely sure if he wanted to continue to live where he was and pursue his career in Wisconsin, but he was offered his old bedroom back if he wanted to come home. It had been a lot for him to process in the last few weeks. Although he wouldn’t have to pay for rent anymore, moving back home would revoke his privacy and he would have to adjust to life differently again. His younger brother tagged him in a photo of the family dog on Instagram, and a lit-up Christmas tree in the background with twinkling rainbow lights. He did miss the feeling of nostalgia. Christmas was in one week. The start of winter break for the university would begin this week, although Liam was technically finished- he would need to start packing to go home for the holidays. He sent

20:21

out a quick reply to the group chat, ’Of course. My plane out there will be Wednesday.’ @lonidalegend

Sophie continued to eat her spaghetti as she scrolled on Instagram. And by scrolling on Instagram, she's really just stalking Liam's page now. Doing her best to be reaaaaaally careful to not like a photo that would feel too out of date. That would just be weird. When she was done eating and scrolling, she reminisced on times when her and Liam were together. Her family loved her, and she loved them. It was so easy to feel like a part of their family, which made the break up a little harder to go through with. She went to her Facebook and looked through all the photos they had taken together. She never deleted them, be it a part of her was kinda lazy about it. Also, Sophie found it a little comforting to be able to look back on memories so easily, a smile creeping across her face. Should she text him? Maybe. She pulled up his contact on her phone and hovered over the message button. What would she even say?.. hey, it's Sophie. Just texting to see how you're doing, and hope the holidays have been smooth so far. @Deleted User

Liam stood up and swung his legs over to get off his bed. He ran his fingers through his fluffy hair while looking in the mirror set up on top of the bookshelf in his bedroom. Sigh. The apartment was silent as his roommates had already gone home for the holidays. He was the last one there. He walked into the kitchen and flipped on the light switch, and sat down on the creaky wooden chair at the table. His suitcases and duffel bags sat empty in the corner of the room, he had yet to fill any of them. That would be a mundane task that he usually put off until the last possible minute. A notification bubble appeared on the screen of his phone as he scrolled and his heart dropped. It was Sophie. He had thought about her recently but never expected her to reach out first. Liam never deleted her contact or number. He took a deep breath while trying to figure out how to respond- did he want to say he was doing great, when really he wasn’t? Did he want to be honest? No- he should keep it casual. A million thoughts a mile went through his head. If he replied too quickly, it would make him seem eager. He was definitely overthinking this. ’Hey. I’m good- coming home Wednesday for Christmas. How are you?’. He clicked the blue send arrow and quickly shut the device off, setting it face down on the table. Liam stood up and made his way to the pile of empty bags and dragged them to his bedroom. He began to stuff fistfuls of shirts and other miscellaneous clothing into them, trying to get his mind off what just happened. The truth was he missed her. @lonidalegend

Sophie practically lunged at the phone after she set it down, excited to see if it was from him. That spark of waiting to see a text from that certain someone clearly came back, as she grinned when it was him. It's true! He's gonna be in town for Christmas, what an actual miracle. Im good! You know, same old same old. That's cool to hear though, I'm sure everyone here will be happy to see you! After she hit send, her heart dropped. Did that include her? Well...technically yes but, will he think that? Does she miss him? Truthfully, yes. There was always that weird emptiness that never seemed to go away. No matter what she did. He was someone more special to her, and...maybe it was wrong time, right person. She wondered if they had another chance, waiting for his response. @Deleted User

Liam stared at the mess of clothing in his duffel bag. Those are definitely going to wrinkle. He just shrugged it off and as soon as he felt the vibration of his phone he picked it up to look at it. Without hesitation he replied: Who knows. If they’re not happy to see me, I’m not moving back. After pressing send Liam just realized that would let her know he was contemplating coming home permanently. It wasn’t far from the truth, if he didn’t feel at peace back in that old town he wasn’t going to stay. He needed a reason to stay, and a big part of him wanted it to be her. It seemed like nonsense but he knew that if he saw her again it would be heart wrenching and he wasn’t going to push his luck if he didn’t stand a chance. @lonidalegend

Sophie smiled wide as she heard her phone go off again. She picked up the phone and read his text, but it didn't feel very joyful. Her brows furrowed...should she say something about it? No...no it'll be too forward. well, I'm sure their reactions to you coming home will change your mind (: Was the smiley face too much? Oh god...will he get a bad impression? What if he's interested in someone else? Sophie groaned to herself and ran a hand through her hair, waiting for him to read the text and reply. Why was she suddenly so attached again? She knew she missed him and still cared but...it's been a while now. But a part of her still hoped that maybe he missed her too. @Deleted User

We’ll see about that. : - ).” Liam sent this rather quickly, and decided to shut off his phone for now. He was getting overwhelmed, thinking that he was making a bad impression. Wait, why did he care what kind of impression he was making? Were these long-buried feelings making a return? Fast forward to the following Wednesday, at around 6pm. The plane had just landed at the airport. It wasn’t a long flight, but he was tired anyway. He slumped out of his seat once the passengers were given a cue to start to leave, and he began the search for his family and baggage. They greeted him with hugs and smiles. The airport was filled with chatter of people reuniting, and smelled of popcorn and a Starbucks coffee shop. It was nostalgic. He only ever felt this feeling when he would come home. @lonidalegend

Once Wednesday rolled around, she had baked that morning and got herself relatively looking nice. She was excited, he has no idea what was happening. She had talked to his parents about when he would be landing, and are helping her surprise him by showing up! When it got close to his landing time, she made her way over. She knew that she might be a little late, thanks to traffic, but Sophie had this in the bag anyways. She made everyone's favorite sweet treats, and made sure she looked presentable. Sophie even snuck on her favorite perfume, the most recognizable notes being strawberry, vanilla and sandalwood. Sophie texted his mom to let her know she was here after parking, and started walking into the airport. A box of goodies in her hand clutched against herself, the other holding her phone as she maneuvered the busy airport. @peachbunny_

“Sophie! It’s great to see you here. Come over here! The plane should have just landed.” Liam’s mom chattered happily and motioned her over to where the family was standing. His brother was unwillingly holding a stuffed teddy bear that had a bow on its neck, likely their mother’s idea. She was a fan of cliche gifts. - Liam was happy to finally be reunited with everyone from back home. There were voices coming from every direction. His heart was pounding and he had a funny feeling in his throat. He stood there as if he were frozen as dozens of questions were thrown at him. There she was. Why? Was this planned? Of course, there was no way she was here by coincidence. Liam couldn’t muster out a word and just looked at her. All of the times he was thinking about her before, he never thought there would be a time again when he actually saw her face. “Earth to son, you in there?” His dad laughed and nudged his shoulder in a playful manner. What was he supposed to say? @lonidalegend

Sophie grinned and hurried over to Liam's mom, giving her a careful half hug and smile. Conversing with them all excitedly, giggling at the fact his brother had to hold a teddy bear. When Liam approached everyone she nervously smiled, she felt like her throat tightened and her heart started to pound. She didn't know how to react at first so she smiled as his mom nudged him, then walked forth. Offering him the box of goodies she made. "Here, I thought you might like these. Welcome back home, Liam." @peachbunny_

“You.. you’re all here.” Liam finally managed to say something after a few seconds of awkward silence and smiles. Liam’s brother rolls his eyes and shoves the bear into his arms. Okay. There had to be a reason for this. Did his mom plan this out? Was it a ploy to get them back together? Was something bad happening, and they could only tell him face-to-face? It was like the last couple years came rushing back to his memory. He suddenly wished he didn’t come home at all. Liam took a step toward Sophie, and felt his cheeks flush red. His curly black hair was unkempt, and he donned an old college sweatshirt and jeans. This wasn’t exactly the look he would have gone for if he knew just what was waiting for him here. “Hi.. thank you. I um, don’t have anything in return..” He gladly accepted the gift. He didn’t think it was appropriate for a hug just yet. He didn’t even know why she had surprised him. “Alright kids! Let’s get to the baggage claim, and then the car! I made dinner reservations.” His mom beamed, clearly making an effort to break the weird barrier. He silently thanked her in his mind for getting everyone to keep moving. @lonidalegend

Sophie smiled weakly as he came to her, she didn't mind how he looked. She wasn't going to judge, he had just been on a long flight. "No no, please don't think you need to give anything back. Just accept it." Sophie smiled again as his mom broke the silence, walking with his mom as they chatted and caught up. This was certainly planned to an extent, Sophie hoped that she didn't make everything weird. When they got to baggage claim, she waited to let Liam get his stuff. She would then turn to his mom. "Am I invited as well? If not totally cool! I'm just not sure how the reservation is set up, and I don't want you to just change it to include me. I just wanted to stop by and say hi when he got here, you know?" She said with a soft smile, folding her hands behind her back. @peachbunny_

“Of course you are! There’s always room for more.” Liam’s mother kept on smiling. It seemed as though the grin never left her face. The tense feeling in his throat moved to his stomach, and it felt like a giant punch. Certainly this wouldn’t be so bad, right? Liam’s father began to walk in the direction toward baggage claim and his siblings followed. It seemed there were no other choice than to go with whatever his parents had in mind. As they walked, he tried to make small talk with Sophie. “So uh, no one put you up to this did they?” He whispered so that only she would hear. He meant it in a sarcastic manner, trying to keep the conversation light. The luggage rolls around and he finally spots one that looked identical to the one he remembered- sure enough, his name was right on the tag with big bold print. He lifted it up off the belt and set it on the ground to pull out the handlebar. @lonidalegend

As Sophie exhaled quietly, she smiled at Liam's mother. Perhaps relief, maybe nerves as well. "Awh, thank you so much. I appreciate it." She nodded in thanks, but deep down she felt this was a terrible idea. Was it an unwise idea? As his parents walked ahead, Liam was beside her. As she shook her head, she faintly laughed at his question. "Not...entirely. I reached out to your mom, honestly, to see if I could join the party. If it's just too weird for you, I can always head out. It's your decision, I don't mind." She says this, but truthfully? It would suck if he sent her on her way. It would mean to her that he didn't miss her at all, that he moved on. Would she be able to stomach that? Sophie watched as Liam got his luggage, and checked her phone briefly as they all got situated. As far as her phone was concerned, nothing seemed to be happening. @peachbunny_

Liam thought for a moment. “No, don’t go. I’m actually kind of glad you’re here.” Less awkward small talk with his parents about his current living situation, anyway. The group shuffled from the baggage claim towards the exit. Small snowflakes drifted through the air, disappearing as they hit the pavement. The restaurant of choice that his parents had chosen was an American-Italian style place. It was decent. The lights were dim with quiet piano music in the background. Everyone had taken a seat at a large round table. “Get whatever you want dear, this one’s on me.” His mother mentioned to Sophie as a waitress set glasses of water by everyone’s place at the table and proceeded to take everyone’s order. “So Liam,” she continued, “I hope you’re planning on staying with us long term?” He noticed the emphasis on being home more permanent. He knew that was what his parents wanted, to have their son back home. It was hard to be away for so long and become distant to the people he cared about. His younger siblings were growing up and getting hobbies that he didn’t even know about. His father seemed more tired- the dark circles under his eyes were more prominent and the streaks of gray in his hair were noticeable now. “Um, yeah. I just have to break the lease for the apartment back at school.” Liam replied in a tense tone. He twirled his fork through his pasta but didn’t take a bite. Everything felt different now. “What have you been up to lately?” He glanced at Sophie. Her face gave him a sense of familiarity. It was almost as if time never passed and they never grew apart. Maybe that’s what he wished for. The awkward tension in the air seemed to disappear as everyone began to talk more. @lonidalegend

Sophie smiled as Liam insisted on her staying. That made her feel...way better, actually. At least her being here wasn't making things awkward...too much..? She watched as the snowflakes drifted down, melting upon impact on the pavement. The snowflakes were like gentle reassurances of Liam's presence; his words brought peace and security, even though the situation was still awkward. She smiled weakly at that. It was such a beautiful sight to see. When they all arrived at the table, Sophie had already felt the atmosphere. She felt relaxation and comfort as she listened to the piano music. The music filled the air, bringing peace and joy, and calming her worries. The piano music was like a familiar friend, and it was a welcome relief from the situation's tension. It was soothing and kept her mind at ease. She smiled at Liam's mother when she said to get whatever she wanted, looking at the waitress to order. "I'll do the chicken alfredo, please." She said her thanks afterward and watched as Liam and his mother conversed. She smiled at Liam when he addressed her, grateful for the distraction from her thoughts. "Me? Ah well...you know...I have my own place. Um...I work from home now. That's really a pleasure. I don't even have to deal with annoying coworkers or customers." She took a sip of her water, before continuing. "And you? How have things been lately?" Sophie asked quietly so his family members couldn't hear. Truthfully, she was curious...another part of her was worried and still cared...She couldn't ignore that. @peachbunny_

Later that evening, the two were left alone. Liam’s family had parted, after a chat and some board games, either going to bed or minding their own business. The house was quiet. The lamp dimly lit the room. Snowflakes flurried through the air outside. Liam ran his fingers through his curls, brushing it out of his eyes. He was seated on the leather couch with a crocheted blanket across his lap. He turned to Sophie. He was surprised that she had willingly spent time with him, but another part of him also didn’t want her to leave. He was glad that they had been able to catch up. His previous feelings of anxiety had subsided. “It’s been great to see you again.” He stated. The holiday season brought on bittersweet memories. Their first Christmas together a long time ago was one that he would never forget. However, it was too soon for Liam to gather his feelings again- in this moment he only knew that it was pleasant to be with her again, even if it meant only as friends. The digital clock on the wall gave the time in neon blue numbers- 7:52pm. “Do you have time to chat more? Or I can bring you home.” Liam didn’t want to pressure any conversation. The whole day had been a lot to take in. @lonidalegend

Sophie had to do her best to not let her mind wander into the setting. Being left alone, the snow falling outside? It was like the perfect romantic setup...well, if they were together. She smiled warmly to him, almost resembling the light from the dim lamp nearby. She was happy that they were able to spend some time together now, the whole day was a little awkward and chaotic. But all those feelings seemed to have melted into a sense of... familiarity almost? "It's great to see you too, Liam. And of course I have plenty of time to talk more. Was there anything specific in mind?" She asked this with...a little hope, maybe there was a spark that had been reignited...oh jeez. Sophie silently scolded herself, you can't get your hopes up like that! Though...it would be...best case scenario. Even if it looked bad, a small part of her missed them. But was there a shot?.. @peachbunny_