LOVERS AT CHRISTMAS EVE 1

Daniel Alexander and Stefany Madison are two teenagers living in the village of Bibury, Cotswolds, England. Their friendship has grown since they were toddlers, and the bond between them has strengthened over time.

Bibury, located in the heart of the Cotswolds, is known for its stunning natural beauty. Charming traditional stone houses line the tranquil river that flows through the village. Towering green trees surround the village, providing the perfect setting for Daniel and Stefany's adventures.

Daniel, a cheerful and energetic teenage boy, loves exploring the nature around the village. He enjoys playing in the lush forests or following the small river that meanders through the green meadows. Stefany, on the other hand, is a creative and imaginative teenage girl. She often brings her notebook and pencils to the riverbank or under a shady tree to draw the surrounding nature or record observations about the flora and fauna that grow there.

They often spend time together, exploring every corner of the village with great curiosity. They frequently venture to Arlington Row, which towers outside the village, challenging themselves to reach the top and enjoy the spectacular views of the Cotswolds that stretch out below them. On sunny days, they often pack snacks and have picnics by the river, enjoying the warmth of the sun and the sound of the calm, babbling water.

However, their friendship is not just about adventures in nature. They also support and comfort each other in difficult times. When Daniel feels sad because his pet cat is missing, Stefany is always there to comfort him with funny stories or fun games. Conversely, when Stefany feels anxious about a test at school, Daniel patiently helps her study and provides encouragement.

Bibury itself is a beautiful and peaceful place. Surrounded by green hills and vast meadows, the village offers peace and tranquility rarely found elsewhere. The classic stone houses and small paved streets add to the village's charm. Every corner of the village has its own beauty, from the magnificent ancient church to the small shops selling local handicrafts.

Daniel and Stefany were born and raised in this village, and they both love their birthplace very much. Daniel and Stefany feel lucky to live in Bibury as their home, where endless adventures await them along the tranquil river and under the blue sky.

And their friendship, which thrives amidst the natural beauty and peace of the village, will continue to grow into an unwavering bond, following them in every step of the adventures they take.

One afternoon on the way home from school,

The sun shone brightly in the blue sky, indicating that summer still reigned there. Daniel and Stefany came out of the school door with their backpacks hanging casually on their shoulders. Their steps were full of enthusiasm, ready to enjoy the rest of the afternoon after a long day at school.

Daniel, who had just come out of his class, was waiting for his best friend among the crowd of children who were starting to leave the school gate.

"Where's Stefany? I haven't seen her since earlier?"

The handsome boy kept looking for Stefany. Finally, Daniel felt very relieved when he saw his friend walking with her female friends, Caroline and Marsha. Daniel's smile was clearly drawn at the corners of his lips.

From a distance, Marsha, who saw Daniel waiting for Stefany next to the school gate, immediately said,

"Wow, Stefany. Look who's next to the school gate!"

"Ooh-la-la, is your little boyfriend waiting?" Caroline blurted out, trying to tease Stefany.

"Ugh ... you guys! Daniel and I are close friends. He's like a brother to me," Stefany replied to both of them.

"Oh ... yeah? I don't believe it," Marsha retorted.

"Same, Sha! I don't believe it either." Caroline also chimed in.

"Ugh! You guys. Do I have to pinch your ears first? Then you'll believe what I'm saying?" Stefany said sharply, pretending to be angry.

"Ha-ha-ha! Forgive us, Stefany ... we believe you!" Marsha retorted, seeking safety, and was answered with a nod by Caroline.

The three girls got closer to Daniel, who was standing patiently waiting for Stefany's arrival.

The teenage boy greeted the three of them with a cheerful face.

"Hi, Stefany, Caroline, Marsha!" Daniel exclaimed with a bright smile.

"Hi too, Daniel!" the three replied simultaneously.

"Well, because the princess has found her prince, it's time for Caroline and I to go home," Marsha said.

"Marsha is right. We'll take our leave first. Daniel, remember! Take good care of Stefany, don't you dare hurt her! You'll be dealing with both of us!" Caroline's ultimatum.

"Ha-ha-ha. You don't need to worry so much. Stefany is my best friend. Of course, I will always take care of and protect her," Daniel said firmly.

After Caroline and Marsha went home. Daniel smiled sweetly at Stefany. He said,

"Stefany, how are you today? Sorry I was late for school this morning and I had a lot of schoolwork to do so I couldn't come and say hello. Oh yeah, are you busy this afternoon?" Daniel asked.

Stefany smiled back at him.

"Hi, Daniel! I'm fine. Hmm, I don't have any plans this afternoon. What are you thinking?"

Daniel winked at Stefany with enthusiasm.

"I have a brilliant idea! How about we go to the hill behind the school? I brought some pieces of pie made by Mommy. It must be delicious!"

Stefany's face instantly lit up with joy.

"Wow, that sounds really fun and exciting! I always love Aunt Miriam's pie. Let's go there right away, Daniel!"

The two of them walked towards the hill with enthusiastic steps, talking and laughing along the way. Arriving at the top of the hill, they took off their bags and sat under a shady tree that provided pleasant shade. Daniel immediately opened his bag and took out the pieces of pie that looked tempting.

"Go ahead, take one," Daniel said with a wide smile.

Stefany quickly took a piece of pie and looked at it with admiration.

"This looks amazing! Thank you, Daniel. Aunt Miriam is really good at cooking!"

The two of them started their meal with delight, enjoying every bite of the crispy pie.

"This pie is really delicious, Daniel. Aunt Miriam is really an expert at making pies," Stefany praised while chewing delightfully.

Daniel smiled proudly.

"Yeah, Mommy never fails at cooking. I'm glad you like it too!"

Daniel and Stefany continued to eat the pie, while continuing to chat about their adventure plans for the weekend and interesting things they encountered at school today. The relaxed atmosphere under the shade of the tree on top of the hill made the two teenagers feel happy and calm.

After finishing eating, they sat leaning on the green grass, enjoying the fresh air and the beautiful scenery that stretched out before their eyes. They enjoyed the togetherness while planning their next adventure. They both realized there was nothing better than having a friend like each other to accompany them in every step of their life's journey.

But suddenly from behind the hill ….