The neon lights of the city usually felt cold to Kamil, but tonight, the glow of the Christmas market in the square felt like a warm hug. He was slumped on a bench, scrolling through his phone, feeling a bit like a Grinch. His car had broken down, his gift for his parents was back-ordered, and the "holiday spirit" felt more like a holiday "to-do list."
Kamil tucked his phone away. He didn't need to scroll anymore. He headed toward the train station, huming the melody. The car could wait, and the gift would arrive eventually. For now, he had a catchy tune in his head and a sudden, urgent craving for some pierogi and a celebration with his family. The neon lights of the city usually felt
Then, a heavy bass line started thumping from a nearby stage. It was catchy—unapologetically upbeat. A crowd began to gather, and Kamil found himself drifting toward the sound. Kamil tucked his phone away
“If adventures will not befall a young lady in her own village, she must seek them abroad.”
