It started as a distraction—a way to escape the quiet loneliness of being away for Christmas. I was on holiday, far from the usual faces and festive chaos at home, staying in a cozy little cabin on the edge of a snowy town. The Christmas lights twinkled outside, but inside, I felt like something was missing.

That’s when I downloaded the app. The one I’d never dare touch back home. It was supposed to be harmless fun, just a way to kill time during a holiday that wasn’t quite as magical as I’d hoped. I scrolled, half-laughing at the profiles, until I stopped dead in my tracks.

There he was. My heart jumped into my throat, and I blinked, sure it had to be a mistake. His face was unmistakable—the man I’ve known practically my entire life. He’s the one who always seemed so wholesome, so family-oriented, the guy who hosted the best Christmas parties back home and lit up the neighborhood with his laugh.

And yet, here he was. On this app. The kind of app that doesn’t exactly scream “wholesome.” At first, I thought it had to be someone using his photos, but the profile was too personal, too perfectly him. The humor, the hobbies, the little details only he’d write—it was him.

I should’ve swiped left immediately. Everything about it felt wrong. But after the breakup I barely survived last month—and now, sitting here alone on Christmas—I hesitated. Seeing his face brought up feelings I hadn’t let myself explore before.

Was it the loneliness of the season? Or was it something more? Maybe it was the way he’s aged so gracefully—his tall, fit frame, those piercing eyes I never really noticed before. Or maybe it was just the curiosity.

What’s he doing here? What’s he looking for? And why do I suddenly want to be the one to find out?

My thumb hovered over the screen, torn between common sense and temptation. Logic told me to leave it alone. But the Christmas lights outside twinkled like a promise of something unexpected, and before I could stop myself, I swiped right.

Now I’m here, wondering if anyone’s interested in playing this out. Maybe you’re my married neighbor back home, my step-dad visiting the same town, or just that older man I’ve known forever. Whatever the dynamic, I want to explore the tension, the build-up, and how the holidays bring us closer in ways we never expected.

If this story intrigues you, send me a message. Let’s see where this Christmas tale leads.