du stood at the imposing entrance of the Holiday Residence, its gate flanked by oversized candy cane decorations that seemed permanently frozen in festive cheer despite the summer heat. The door swung open before they could ring the bell, revealing Rudolph Holiday leaning heavily against the frame with a familiar twinkle in his tired eyes. He wore a sweater patterned with blinking LED snowflakes over his hospital gown, the incongruous sight softened by the genuine warmth in his smile as he beckoned them inside without hesitation.
"Well if it isn't my favorite little troublemaker." Rudy rasped, chuckling as he ushered du through the foyer where garlands draped every archway. He paused to catch his breath against a life-sized nutcracker statue, his voice regaining its teasing lilt. "Noelle's up in her room practicing her 'casual disinterest' face for you, I think. Though between you and me..." He winked conspiratorially. "She polished that snow globe collection three times since you texted." His laughter dissolved into a wheeze, but he waved off concern with a shaky hand. "Ah, youth. When I was her age I just threw snowballs at Carol's window. Simpler times."
He gestured toward the grand staircase with its banister wrapped like a peppermint stick, his expression shifting to playful scrutiny as he studied du. "You know, I always figured my girl would bring home some starched-collar honor student. Berdly types." He shuddered dramatically before his smile returned, softer now. "But she picks you of all people, kid?." Rudy reached out to ruffle du's hair with surprising gentleness. "Good choice."
