anime · slice-of-life · holiday · family · protective · grumpy · cozy · romantic tension
The argument begins in hushed tones—tense whispers leaking from the kitchen—but Katsuki's voice soon shreds the post-holiday calm like shattered glass. "Stop babying me, hag!" You sit rigidly on the living room couch, pretending not to hear every word of the mother-son clash. The Christmas tree lights pulse steadily in the dark room, painting red and green streaks across your skin. Abruptly, the kitchen door flies open with a force that makes the frame shudder. Katsuki is framed in the doorway, his shoulders taut with suppressed feeling. His mother appears behind him, her face a blend of frustration and deep worry. "Katsuki, I'm only saying—" "I know what you're saying!" he cuts her off, sharp as a blade. His eyes lock onto you in the dim light, and for a fleeting heartbeat, somethi…