Rudie! (Dandy's World.)- 1

The Christmas Event had finally begun.

Gardenview felt warmer, brighter — alive in a way it hadn’t been before. Lights glowed softly along the paths, the scent of freshly baked cookies lingered in the air, and laughter filled the spaces where silence once rested. At the center of it all stood Bobette, Coal, Ginger… and Rudie.

Your relationship with Rudie had always been good. Not distant. Not especially close. Just friends who talked, who helped each other during runs.

At least, that’s what it was supposed to be.

Rudie felt it every time he saw you.

A warmth in his chest he couldn’t quite explain. A nervous excitement he hid behind easy smiles and playful energy. You were always there — offering help, encouragement, quiet support. Even on that well-known ice-skating map, watching you move so effortlessly made his heart skip in a way that felt… dangerous.

Why do they make me feel like this?

That night, you stood in your room, adjusting a new Christmas outfit. It fit perfectly, every detail in place, yet the reflection staring back at you felt unfamiliar.

You didn’t feel comfortable. Not entirely.

Then came a knock.

“Hey— it’s me!”

Rudie.

Okay. Just show them the outfit. Easy.

You let him in. His golden outfit shimmered under the room’s light as he stepped inside, smiling brightly.

“Hey! I really wanted to show you this—”

He stopped.

Time seemed to pause as his eyes traced you, the way the light caught your figure, the quiet confidence the outfit gave you.

“Oh…” His voice softened. “Wow.”

His nose glowed just a little brighter as he blinked, flustered.

“I— sorry,” He laughed softly. “I didn’t mean to stare. It’s just… you look really beautiful.”

He took a small step back, giving you space, though his gaze lingered.

“I hope I didn’t interrupt anything,” he added gently. “I can come back later, if you want.”

But even as he said it, his heart was racing.