Sokeefe Coffee AU

Chapter 33- Start of Christmas Break

The snow crunched softly beneath Keefe's tires as they pulled up the long, sprawling driveway leading to Sophie's house. The mansion stood like a beacon against the night, every corner decked out in lights and garlands, making it look straight out of a winter fairy tale. The warm glow from the massive windows spilled onto the snow-dusted steps, welcoming them in.

"Okay, but seriously," Keefe said as he parked, turning to look at her. "Why didn't you tell me you lived in a castle?"

Sophie rolled her eyes as she unbuckled her seatbelt. "It's just a big house, Keefe which you have been too multiple times."

"Just a big house?" he repeated dramatically, leaning to peer out the window. "I'm starting to think you're secretly a Disney princess. Is there a talking animal I should be aware of?"

"Shut up," Sophie muttered, but the blush on her cheeks betrayed her smile.

Keefe grinned, unbothered as always, and scrambled out of the car to race around and open her door. "Come on, Foster. Time to wow the crowd."

"They already know you, you dork," Sophie said, stepping out into the chilly night.

"True," Keefe replied, falling into step beside her. "But they don't know me as your boyfriend. Big difference. I need to make a good impression."

"You don't try to make a good impression," Sophie shot back.

"Exactly. It's effortless," Keefe said, smirking as they climbed the stairs.

Before they even reached the door, it swung open, and Biana leaned against the frame, smiling knowingly. "Finally."

Behind her, Fitz gave them a nod. "What took you guys so long? You were supposed to be here ages ago."

"Blame him," Sophie said, pointing at Keefe. "He insisted we stop for snacks."

"Snacks are essential!" Keefe defended. "Road trips demand it. It's science."

"Sure it is," Fitz replied, rolling his eyes.

Inside, the mansion was as breathtaking as ever. Twinkling garlands were draped along the banisters, wreaths hung from the towering doors, and a massive Christmas tree filled one corner of the living room. Its golden lights reflected off the ornaments, giving the whole room a warm, glittering glow.

Max, Vienna, and Anna were lounging around the couches, clearly mid-conversation, but Vienna's eyes lit up the moment she spotted Sophie.

"SOPHIE!" Vienna sprang up, tackling her in a hug. "You're back!"

Sophie laughed, steadying herself. "I missed you too, V."

Vienna pulled back, her gaze shifting to Keefe with a smirk. "And him, what were you guys doing that made you so late."

Sophie blushed and said nothing while keefe stood watching.

Max and Anna both turned, smirking. "The boyfriend," Anna confirmed, raising an eyebrow.

Keefe flashed them all his signature grin, clearly enjoying the attention. "Guilty as charged. Miss me?"

"You've been here like three times already," Max pointed out with a laugh.

"Yeah, but it's always a pleasure," Keefe replied smoothly, slipping an arm around Sophie's waist. "I just thought I'd make things official."

Anna snorted. "Oh, we know."

The Call and the Chaos

The evening melted into familiar warmth—casual conversation, teasing jokes, and the kind of laughter Sophie hadn't realized she'd missed so much. It wasn't until later, when everyone had settled into the living room, that Sophie's phone buzzed on the coffee table.