#why is customer service important

[monicascot]

Are you ready for Airbnb scorecard! 🏡💯

Running an Airbnb business requires careful attention to various aspects to ensure a successful and profitable operation. Firstly, it's important to create an appealing listing that accurately represents your property and highlights its unique features. High-quality photos and detailed descriptions can attract potential guests and set realistic expectations.

[mwolf0epsilon]

I think Flying Scotsman should emote more with his dumbo ears smoke deflectors...

He can move them, so that's an extra emoting element for sure!

[yardsards]

i needed to express a sentiment in the creative stylings of @dunmeshiminimumwage

[countdown-til-sanders-take-over]

this is a formal apology for every time i've read ur fnaf theories, gone "ah... of course! yes!" and then forgotten to respond

This is a formal apology for every time I've read one of your asks, not immediately had a TQ&/E, and forgotten to respond

[2005noroithecurse]

my bf becomes like a fuckin task robot when he takes his adderall it freaks me out every time like who body snatched u

[autolisbon]

Which Tire Shop in Lisbon is Right for Your Car?

When it comes to vehicle maintenance, few things are as important as choosing the right tire shop. Tires are critical for your safety on the road, and finding a reliable Tire Service Lisbon ensures that you are getting the best value, quality, and performance for your car. Whether you need a simple tire rotation or a full tire replacement, Lisbon offers a variety of tire shops that cater to different needs and preferences.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through how to choose the right tire shop in Lisbon, the importance of tire services, and other essential tips for your first visit to an auto repair shop, including what to expect when you bring your vehicle in for service.

1. Why Tire Services Matter

Your tires are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road, making their maintenance crucial for overall safety and vehicle performance. Over time, tires can wear down or become damaged, leading to reduced traction, poor fuel efficiency, and even accidents. This is why regular tire service is essential to maintaining the health and longevity of your vehicle.

When looking for a Tire Service in Lisbon, you’ll want to find a shop that offers a variety of tire services, including:

Tire Inspection: Regular tire inspections help detect issues early, such as uneven wear, cracks, or punctures that could cause problems later.

Tire Rotation: This helps to ensure even tire wear, prolonging the lifespan of your tires.

Tire Balancing: Balancing your tires helps reduce vibrations and ensures a smoother driving experience.

Tire Replacement: When your tires are worn out or damaged beyond repair, a tire shop should provide reliable replacement services.

2. What to Look for in a Tire Shop

Choosing the right tire shop is not just about proximity; you want a shop that provides high-quality service and products. Here are some important factors to consider:

Experience and Expertise

A reliable tire shop should have experienced technicians who can offer personalized recommendations based on your car’s needs. They should be able to assess your vehicle's tire wear, recommend the best tire type for your driving habits and local weather conditions, and perform necessary services accurately.

Variety of Tire Brands

Not all tires are created equal. Different brands offer varying features, such as better traction, improved fuel efficiency, or longer durability. A reputable tire shop should offer a selection of well-known tire brands so you can choose the best fit for your car’s make and model.

Competitive Pricing

While you don’t want to compromise on quality, it’s also important to find a tire shop that offers competitive pricing. Some shops in Lisbon might offer discounts, tire bundles, or seasonal sales that can help you save money on your next tire purchase.

Warranty and Service Guarantees

One crucial consideration when choosing a tire shop is the warranty offered on tires and tire services. Warranties give you peace of mind, knowing that you’re covered in case something goes wrong with your tires after installation. Some tire shops offer warranties on tires that include free replacements or repairs for certain issues.

Customer Reviews

Always check customer reviews before making a decision. Online platforms like Google Reviews or Yelp can give you valuable insight into a shop’s customer service and the quality of their work. Look for a tire shop with consistently positive feedback, especially regarding timeliness and professionalism.

3. What is the Warranty on a Rebuilt Transmission?

While this may seem unrelated to tires, it’s worth noting that many auto repair shops that offer tire services also specialize in other aspects of vehicle maintenance, such as transmission repairs. What is the Warranty on a Rebuilt Transmission? It varies by shop and manufacturer, but generally, you can expect warranties from 12 months to 3 years, depending on the service provider.

If you’re ever in need of auto transmission service in addition to tire maintenance, be sure to ask about the warranty coverage for rebuilt transmissions. A good warranty ensures that if there are any issues with the rebuilt transmission, you won’t have to pay for repairs out of pocket. The same goes for tires; the longer the warranty, the better your investment will be.

At Lisbon Auto Repair Center, we offer warranties on both our tire services and auto repairs, ensuring that our customers feel confident in the quality of work we provide.

4. What to Expect During Your First Visit to an Auto Repair Shop

For those who are new to vehicle maintenance or new to a particular shop, understanding what to expect during your first visit to a Tire Service in Lisbon can help make the process smoother. Here’s a general idea of what you can expect:

Initial Inspection

When you arrive at the tire shop, a technician will usually begin with an inspection of your current tires. They will assess the tread depth, check for any visible signs of damage (such as punctures or cracks), and evaluate the overall condition of the tires.

Recommendations and Estimates

After the inspection, the technician will provide you with their recommendations based on the condition of your tires. If the tires need to be replaced, they will offer options for tire brands and types, and provide an estimate for the service.

Service Duration

Depending on the type of service, you can expect to spend anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours at the tire shop. If you're getting new tires installed, the process might take longer, as the technician will need to balance and align your new tires for optimal performance.

Payment and Warranty Information

Once the service is completed, you will receive a bill detailing the work performed. Make sure to ask about the warranty on your new tires, tire services, or any other auto repair services, such as transmission or brake work. It’s essential to keep the receipt and warranty documentation in case you need to refer to it later.

5. Additional Services Offered at Tire Shops

In addition to basic tire services, many tire shops offer other vehicle maintenance services that can complement your tire care, such as:

Brake Inspections and Repairs: Tires and brakes go hand-in-hand. A good tire shop will also be able to assess your brake system and make recommendations for any needed repairs.

Suspension and Alignment Services: If your tires are wearing unevenly, it could be due to suspension issues. Some tire shops also specialize in suspension repairs and wheel alignment services to ensure that your tires wear evenly and last longer.

Battery Services: If your car's battery is near the end of its life, many tire shops can replace it for you.

6. Final Thoughts on Choosing a Tire Shop in Lisbon

When it comes to maintaining your vehicle, finding the right Tire Service in Lisbon is essential for your car's performance and safety. Take the time to research your options, ask the right questions, and ensure that the shop you choose offers the services, warranties, and pricing that best suit your needs.

Whether you're looking for new tires, tire rotation, or What to Expect During Your First Visit to an Auto Repair Shop, it’s important to choose a shop you can trust. Lisbon Auto Repair Center is one such shop in Lisbon, offering top-notch tire services, exceptional customer care, and expertise in vehicle repairs, including What is the Warranty on a Rebuilt Transmission?. We’re here to help you keep your vehicle running smoothly, safely, and efficiently.

[maryoma00]

Customer Service Relationship Management

Introduction to Customer Service Relationship Management

What is Customer Service Relationship Management (CSRM)?

Customer Service Relationship Management (CSRM) refers to the systematic approach of managing customer interactions and enhancing service delivery to build long-term, meaningful relationships. It focuses on addressing customer needs, resolving issues efficiently, and ensuring satisfaction through a blend of technology and human effort.

While traditional CRM systems emphasize sales and marketing, CSRM zeroes in on customer support and service processes to create a seamless experience.

Why is CSRM Important for Businesses?

Enhancing Customer Loyalty Effective CSRM fosters trust and loyalty by ensuring customers feel valued and heard. Loyal customers are more likely to advocate for the brand and provide repeat business.

Improving Operational Efficiency Centralized systems and streamlined workflows reduce redundancies, enabling quicker issue resolution and better service quality.

Gaining a Competitive Advantage In today’s customer-centric market, excellent service is a key differentiator. Businesses that prioritize CSRM stand out by delivering superior customer experiences.

Core Elements of Customer Service Relationship Management

Centralized Customer Data

Consolidating Information CSRM systems centralize customer data, making it easily accessible for service teams. This includes purchase history, preferences, and previous interactions.

Leveraging Data for Personalization Using this data, businesses can offer tailored solutions, making customers feel understood and valued.

Proactive Customer Support

Anticipating Customer Needs Proactive support involves identifying potential issues before they arise, like sending reminders about product updates or addressing frequently encountered problems.

Implementing Predictive Analytics Predictive analytics tools can analyze trends and customer behavior, helping teams forecast needs and provide preemptive solutions.

Integration with CRM Systems

Synchronizing Customer Interaction Data Integrating CSRM with existing CRM systems ensures a seamless flow of information across departments, improving customer interactions.

Cross-Functional Collaboration When sales, marketing, and support teams share insights, they can collaborate more effectively to meet customer needs holistically.

Benefits of Customer Service Relationship Management

Strengthened Customer Relationships Tailored interactions and a personalized approach foster trust and encourage long-term loyalty.

Enhanced Customer Satisfaction Quick and effective resolution of queries, along with self-service options, improves overall satisfaction.

Optimized Team Productivity By automating repetitive tasks and centralizing data, service teams can focus on complex issues, boosting efficiency.

Steps to Implement a CSRM Strategy

Assessing Customer Service Needs

Identifying Pain Points Conducting surveys and analyzing feedback helps identify recurring issues and areas for improvement.

Understanding Customer Preferences Determine the preferred channels and communication styles of your customers to tailor the strategy accordingly.

Selecting the Right Tools

Features to Look For Look for tools offering ticketing systems, analytics, AI capabilities, and omnichannel support.

Popular CSRM Platforms Platforms like Zendesk, Salesforce Service Cloud, and Freshdesk cater to businesses of various sizes and industries.

[inventopasay]

The Top Branding Agency in Pune

In today’s competitive market, branding is more important than ever. A strong brand can set you apart from the competition, create loyal customers, and help your business thrive. That’s where Pasay Invento, the most trusted branding agency in Pune, comes in. With years of experience, a deep understanding of market trends, and a commitment to excellence, Pasay Invento has earned its reputation as the go-to trusted branding agency in Pune.

Why Branding Matters

Branding is more than just a logo or a catchy tagline—it’s the essence of your business. It conveys your company’s values, mission, and personality to your target audience. Without a clear and compelling brand identity, businesses often struggle to connect with customers on an emotional level. As a trusted branding agency in Pune, Pasay Invento understands the complexities of branding and is equipped to deliver results that resonate.

What Sets Pasay Invento Apart?

What makes Pasay Invento the most trusted branding agency in Pune is our client-centric approach and the ability to craft unique, effective strategies for each business. We take the time to understand your goals, challenges, and the essence of your brand to develop solutions that align with your vision.

We don’t just create brands—we help businesses build trust with their audience. In a city like Pune, where industries are diverse and the market is competitive, choosing a trusted branding agency in Pune is critical. Pasay Invento’s in-depth market knowledge ensures that your brand is not only visually appealing but also speaks to the local culture and consumer behavior.

Comprehensive Branding Services

At Pasay Invento, we offer a wide range of services that make us the most trusted branding agency in Pune. We cover everything From logo design and messaging to complete brand strategy development. Our team of expert designers, strategists, and marketers work together to ensure that your brand leaves a lasting impression.

Some of our key services include:

Logo Design: A well-designed logo is the foundation of any brand. We create logos that not only look great but also tell the story of your business.

Brand Identity: From color schemes to typography, we help businesses develop a consistent and compelling brand identity.

Brand Strategy: Our strategic planning ensures your brand’s message reaches the right audience at the right time, making us the most trusted branding agency in Pune for long-term results.

Digital Marketing: In today’s digital age, a strong online presence is a must. We help brands grow through SEO, social media marketing, and more.

Why Trust Pasay Invento?

Our commitment to delivering quality work on time and within budget makes us the most trusted branding agency in Pune. Whether you’re a startup looking to establish your presence or an established business aiming to rebrand, we are here to help.

Our client testimonials and case studies speak volumes about our ability to transform brands. By working with Pasay Invento, you’re not just partnering with a branding agency; you’re collaborating with a trusted branding agency in Pune that has your best interests at heart.

Conclusion

In a bustling city like Pune, finding the right partner to handle your brand can make or break your business. Pasay Invento has proven time and again to be the most trusted branding agency in Pune, offering top-notch services that build brands, increase customer loyalty, and drive business growth. If you’re looking for a partner who understands the intricacies of branding and can help your business stand out, look no further. Pasay Invento is the trusted branding agency in Pune you’ve been searching for.

Reach out to us today to start your branding journey with the most trusted branding agency in Pune.

[intelisync]

Overcoming the 60% Struggle with ML Adoption: Key Insights

In the race to stay competitive, companies are turning to machine learning (ML) to unlock new levels of efficiency and innovation. But what does it take to successfully adopt ML?

Machine learning (ML) is a transformative technology offering personalized customer experiences, predictive analytics, operational efficiency, fraud detection, and enhanced decision-making. Despite its potential, many companies struggle with ML adoption due to data quality challenges, a lack of skilled talent, high costs, and resistance to change.

Effective ML implementation requires robust data management practices, investment in training, and a culture that embraces innovation. Intelisync provides comprehensive ML services, including strategy development, model building, deployment, and integration, helping companies overcome these hurdles and leverage ML for success.

Overcoming data quality and availability challenges is crucial for building effective ML models. Implementing robust data management practices, including data cleaning and governance, ensures consistency and accuracy, leading to reliable ML models and better decision-making. Addressing the talent gap through training programs and partnerships with experts like Intelisync can accelerate ML project implementation. Intelisync’s end-to-end ML solutions help businesses navigate the complexities of ML adoption, ensuring seamless integration with existing systems and maximizing efficiency. Fostering a culture of innovation and providing clear communication and leadership support are vital to overcoming resistance and promoting successful ML adoption.

Successful ML adoption involves careful planning, strategic execution, and continuous improvement. Companies must perform detailed cost-benefit analyses, start with manageable pilot projects, and regularly review and optimize their AI processes. Leadership support and clear communication are crucial to fostering a culture that values technological advancement. With Intelisync’s expert guidance, businesses can bridge the talent gap, ensure smooth integration, and unlock the full potential of machine learning for their growth and success. Transform your business with Intelisync’s comprehensive ML services and stay ahead in the competitive Learn more....

[monicascot]

Are you ready for Airbnb scorecard! 🏡💯

Running an Airbnb business requires careful attention to various aspects to ensure a successful and profitable operation. Firstly, it's important to create an appealing listing that accurately represents your property and highlights its unique features. High-quality photos and detailed descriptions can attract potential guests and set realistic expectations.

[lovvelorrn]

honestly being a community manager is the worst thing that ever happened to me lmaoooo

[softwarereviewforall]

CAPTERRA AWARDS ENGAGEBAY AS TOP CUSTOMER SERVICE SOFTWARE

EngageBay is a customer service software that has received high ratings from users in terms of value for money and functionality. It has been recognized as an outstanding product with a value for money rating of 4.7 out of 5 and a functionality rating of 4.6 out of 5. In this article, we will discuss EngageBay reviews, EngageBay vs HubSpot, EngageBay pricing, and whether EngageBay is good according to Capterra.

EngageBay Reviews

EngageBay has received positive reviews from users on Capterra. It has an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5, and users have praised its simplicity, ease of use, and range of features. Here are some examples of EngageBay reviews from Capterra users:

“The tool is very simple to use. It integrated with our own platform easily. We have really utilized all the features such as the email marketing, CRM, automation, and social media engagement. For me, the best in nurturing and closing leads!” ~ Kentall S.

“Needed a cost prohibitive plan form that has everything to market my fitness business along with the automation. I was using multiple pieces of software well over 300+ a month and Engagebay has replaced all of them at a fraction of the price.” ~ Stephen G.

“What I like the most about EngageBay is that it’s an inclusive platform where Sales, Marketing, and Support can be able to work together on the same platform and helps these different but intertwined departments to be always in sync.” ~ Brendan C.

EngageBay vs HubSpot

EngageBay and HubSpot are both customer service software options that offer a range of features to help businesses manage their customer relationships. However, there are some differences between the two. EngageBay is a more affordable option, with a starting price of $13.80 per month, billed annually, while HubSpot offers a free version and paid plans that start at $50 per month. EngageBay is also a more user-friendly option, with a simpler interface that is easier to navigate. HubSpot, on the other hand, offers more advanced features and tools, making it a better option for larger businesses with more complex needs.

EngageBay Pricing

EngageBay offers a range of pricing plans to suit different business needs. The basic plan starts at $13.80 per month, billed annually, and includes up to 500 contacts. The advanced plan starts at $29.99 per month, billed annually, and includes unlimited contacts. EngageBay also offers a free trial of its software, allowing users to test out its features before committing to a paid plan.

Is EngageBay Good According to Capterra?

EngageBay has received positive reviews from users on Capterra, with an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5. It has been recognized as an outstanding product with a value for money rating of 4.7 out of 5 and a functionality rating of 4.6 out of 5. Capterra is a safe platform that helps businesses find and evaluate top software and business services. It does not pay for reviews, and it has review guidelines in place to ensure that reviews are honest and unbiased.

In conclusion, EngageBay is a customer service software that offers a range of features to help businesses manage their customer relationships. It has received positive reviews from users on Capterra, and it is a more affordable and user-friendly option compared to HubSpot. EngageBay offers a range of pricing plans to suit different business needs, and it is a safe and reliable option according to Capterra.

Citations: [1] https://www.capterra.com [2] https://www.capterra.com/categories/ [3] https://www.capterra.com/p/185973/HelpDesk/reviews/ [4] https://www.linkedin.com/company/capterra [5] https://www.capterra.com/customer-service-software/ [6] https://www.capterra.com/customer-service-software/s/free/

[picusviridis]

1 Cassius 👀

What’s the maximum amount of time your character can sit still with nothing to do?

Not that long, actually? It kinda depends on if he's in a daydream-y mood or not . He can sit there for hours if he's spaced-out enough........... but if he's, like, THERE? No more than 5 minutes max. Then he starts doing random (inoffensive and mindless) things like flipping through books or cleaning the area he's in until he's gotta do something proper...................................

[creepyscritches]

I read your post about open enrollment for the ACA and was hoping you might expand on why you believe it would take years to dismantle. I've been terrified that with a Republican house/senate, Trump could just snap his fingers and make it go away within months of taking office. I'd love some reassurance that that's not possible.

Hiya, sure I can share some thoughts on the matter! First, it's very important to understand the ACA is a huuuuuuuuuuuuge system with subject matter experts in dozens of places throughout the process. I'm one of those SMEs, but I am at the end of the process where the revenue is generated, so my insight is limited on the public facing pieces.

What this means is that I am professionally embedded in the ACA in a position that exists purely to show what conditions people are treated for and then generate that data into what's called a "risk score". There's about 6 pages I could write on it, but the takeaway is that the ACA is

1) intricately interwoven with the federal government

2) increasingly profitable, sustainable, and growing (it is STILL a for-profit system if you can believe it)

3) wholeheartedly invested in by the largest insurance companies in the country LARGELY due to the fact that they finally learned the rules of how to make the ACA a thriving center of business

4) since the big issuers are arm+leg invested in the ACA, there is a lot of resistance politically and on an industry level to leave it behind (think of the lobbyists, politicians, corporations that will fight tooth and nail to protect their profit + investment)

The process to calculate a risk score takes roughly 2 years. There is an audit for the concurrent year and then a vigorous retro audit for the prev year - - this is a rolling cycle every year. Medicare has a similar process. These are RVP + RADV audits if you would like the jargon.

Eliminating the ACA abruptly is as internally laughable as us finishing the RADV audit ahead of schedule. If Trump were to blow the ACA into smithereens on day 1, he would be drowning in issuer complaints and an economic health sector that is essentially bleeding out. You cut off the RVP early? We have half of next RADV stuck in the gears now. You cut off the RADV early? No issuer will get their "risk adjusted" payments for services rendered in the prev benefit year (to an extent, again very complex multi-process system).

The ACA is GREAT for the public and should be defended on that basis alone. However, the inner capitalistic nature of the ACA is a powerful armor that has conservatives + liberals defending it on a basis of capital + market growth. It's not sexy, but it makes too much money consistently for the system to be easily dismantled.

Or at least that's what I can tell you from the money center of the ACA. they don't bring us up in political conversation because we are confusing to seasoned professionals, boring to industry outsiders, and consistently we are anathema to the anti-ACA talking points.

I am already preparing for next year's RVP for this window of open enrollment. That RVP process will feed into the RADV in 2026. In 2025, we begin the RADV for 2024. If nothing else, the slow fucking gears of CMS will keep the ACA alive until we finish our work at the end of the process. I highly doubt that will be the only reason the ACA is safeguarded, but it is a powerful type of support to pair with people protecting the ACA for other reasons.

I work every day to show, defend, and educate on how many diagnoses are managed thru my company's ACA plans. My specialty is cancer and I see a lot of it. The revenue drive comes from the Medical Loss Ratio (MLR) rule stating only 20% MAX of profit may go to the issuer + the 80% at a minimum must go back to the customer or be invested in expanding benefits. The more people on the plan using it, the higher that 20% becomes for the issuer and the more impactful that 80% becomes for the next year of benefit growth. It is remarkably profitable once issuers stop seeking out "healthy populations". The ACA is a functional method for issuers to tap into a stable customer base (sick/chronic ill customers) that turns a profit, grows, and builds strong consumer bases in each state.

The industry can never walk away from this overnight - - this is the preferred investment for many big players. Changing the direction of those businesses will be a monumental effort that takes years (at least 2 with the audits). In the meantime, you still have benefits, you still have care, and you still have reason to sign up. Let us deal with the bureaucracy bullshit, go get your care and know you have benefits thru 2025 and we will be working to keep it that way for 2026 and forward. This is a wing of the federal government, it is not a jenga tower like Trump wishes.

[taxiservicechaurffeur]

Why private tour in London is best for travelling with family?

Travelling with family is an amazing experience that creates long-lasting memories. When planning a trip to London, opting for a private tour chauffeur service will be best. It will also help elevate your family's travel experience to new heights.

With private tours chauffeur service, you can enjoy a range of benefits, i.e. from personalized itineraries to flexible schedules and exclusive access.

Let’s check out why private tour London vehicle serviceis an excellent choice for a family trip.

Why you should consider private tour chauffer service for a family trip?

While planning a trip with family it is important to create everlasting memories. With private tour services you can do so as they are expert in following services.

Tailored itineraries

The main advantage of private tour vehicle service is the flexibility to customize itinerary as per the interest and preference of your family.

It alsoallows you to design a personalized experience that suits your family member’s age range and needs.

Whether you want to engage in family-friendly activities like Harry Potter-themed tours or the London Eye or explore iconic landmarks like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, or the British Museum, private tours can be tailored to match your family's specific desires.

Expert guides

A private tourchauffeur in London is an expert guide with in-depth knowledge about the city's attractions, culture and history, ensuring an educational and engaging experience for the entire family.

They can also adapt their storytelling techniques to captivate kids of your family, making the tour more entertaining and informative for everyone.

Additionally, the chauffeurs can accommodate your family's pace, allowing you to spend more time exploring areas of your interest and get answers to the questions that arise in your mind.

Flexibility and convenience

With private tour chauffeur service, you are benefited as they adapt to the schedule and preferences of your family.

You can easily choose the start time, trip duration to every attraction, and break time, ensuring a stress-free experience for every family person.

With this flexibility, families with younger travellers are benefited as they require more downtime.

Chauffer service of the private tour also provides door-to-door service, eliminating the hassle of navigating public transport and looking for parking.

They make your journey more comfortable and convenient.

Conclusion

While travelling with family, private tour London provides an array of advantages.

The ability to tailor the itinerary, coupled with an expert guide, ensures an educational and engaging experience for the entire family.

By avoiding traffic and busy roads, private tours and chauffeur services allow you to enjoy most of your time and keep younger travellers excited throughout the journey.

The flexibility and convenience provided by private tours make it easier to accommodate your family's needs and create a stress-free travel experience.

Also, while exploring the wonders of London, the chauffeur service offered by a private tour in London offer a personalized way to discover the right history, hidden gems and iconic landmark of the city.

It also allows you to create cherished memories as a family and helps to foster a deeper appreciation for the vibrant metropolis.

So, when planning a family adventure to London, consider the facilities offered by a private tour London and embark on a journey that leaves an indelible mark on the travel experience of your family.

[sourcherryandsprinkles]

Long distance girlfriend surprising Rafe

Request: Reader going to college on the east coast and being stuck there because of snow + Rafe being sad

—

‘’Thank you for choosing Cameron Development for your project, Mr. Phillips. Our secretary will email the documents shortly,’’ Rafe said in his polished, customer-service tone. ‘’Happy holidays.’’

The second the call ended, his forced smile vanished, leaving his face set in a grim scowl. He’s never been a fan of Christmas, but for the first time, he had been looking forward to it — his first Christmas with you. But that changed when a snowstorm hit the East Coast, forcing all flights in New York to get cancelled. 

Rafe leaned back in his leather office chair, running a hand through his buzzed hair in frustration. It was only 3pm, but he couldn’t focus. All he could think about was you, alone in your apartment in New York, and most importantly, miles away from him. He thought of driving to you, but Topper resonated with him. If flights were cancelled, some roads would be closed too. 

Why must you go to college so far away? With a sigh, Rafe picked up his personal phone for the tenth time today, and re-reading your last message. He was hurting himself by doing this, but reading your message also brought him some comfort. 

I’m so sorry I can’t make it to you, baby 😢💔 I’ve been keeping track of the flights, but everything is still cancelled… This snow really wants to sabotage our first Christmas! 😠 In case nothing changes, I’m gonna video-call you on Christmas morning…in my sexy lingerie set I got just for you. Wish you were there to unwrap me 🎁🤭

Before he could finish reading, Wheezie’s face filled his screen with an incoming call. 

‘’Wheezie? Why are you calling me?’’ Rafe frowned, leaning back in his chair. She never called him at work unless it was important.

‘’Rafe! Thank god you picked up! I tried calling Sarah, but she didn’t answer.’’ Wheezie's voice was high-pitched and panicked, words spilling out in a rush. 

‘’Wheezie, what is it?’’ he asked. 

‘’I tried making gingerbread cookies, but I guess I left them in for too long...’’

Rafe pinched the bridge of his nose, already feeling a headache coming on. ‘’Just throw them out if they’re burned. It’s not worth breaking a tooth over.’’

‘’No, you don’t understand,’’ she cried, her voice breaking slightly. ‘’There’s smoke all over the kitchen!’’ A coughing fit punctuated her sentence, and Rafe’s heart dropped.

‘’What? Wheeze, are you okay?’’ 

He was already standing, grabbing his keys. Fuck work. 

‘’Can you come home? Please, Rafe. Dad is gonna be so mad if I burn the house down—’’ 

He didn’t even wait to hang up properly before he was out the door. ‘’I’m coming, Wheeze. Just, stay away from the oven, okay? And get outside if it gets worse. Do you hear me?’’ Rafe’s tone sharpened, his protective instincts kicking in.

Rafe pulled into the driveway of Tannyhill, tires screeching as he parked quickly. His jaw was tight, still on edge from Wheezie’s frantic call. The house seemed calm from the outside, which was strange because she said there was smoke all over the kitchen.

He opened the front door. “Wheezie?” he called out, stepping into the house, his eyes scanning for signs of smoke. ‘’Wheezie, I’m here. Where’s the damn smoke you talked about?’’ 

The kitchen light was on, and as he stepped closer, his stomach dropped. Instead of finding his little sister panicking, he found you standing in the middle of the kitchen, grinning at him. 

‘’Hi.’’ 

For a split second, neither of you moved. Then, you ran to him, throwing your arms around his neck and pressing yourself against him. Rafe’s brain scrambled to catch up. Then it clicked. The familiar scent of your shampoo, the warmth of your arms — it was really you. His arms locked around your waist like he was afraid you might disappear, and you buried your face in his chest, clutching him like you’d never let go.

‘’What the—’’ He pulled back just enough to grab your face, his blue eyes searching yours, wide with disbelief. ‘’You’re here? Really here?’’

‘’Surprise, baby,’’ you murmured before pressing your lips to his, cutting off whatever string of disbelief he was about to voice again.

The kiss was soft at first, but as the realization sank in, Rafe pulled you closer, deepening it, one hand sliding to your back while the other tangled in your hair. It was desperate and relieved, like he couldn’t believe you were actually there, standing in his kitchen, and not miles away in New York.

He hadn’t seen you since his weekend visit for Thanksgiving, he couldn’t settle with a peck. 

When you finally pulled back, both of you were breathing hard, faces inches apart. 

Rafe’s forehead pressed against yours. ‘’But you were in New York. The flights—’’ He blinked, still trying to process, his grip on your waist tightening. ‘’How are you here? I mean…what—? Wheezie called me about some fire in the kitchen.’’ He glanced around, half-expecting his sister to pop out from somewhere. 

You laughed, guilt flickering across your face. ‘’Yeah, that was her idea. There’s no fire. I told her to find something to make you come home. It worked, didn’t it?’’ 

His eyebrows shot up. ‘’She knew about you coming here and didn’t tell me?!’’ 

You nodded. Flights being cancelled was not a lie, but you were able to take a train to another state — where the snow was not as bad —, and take a flight there. You texted Wheezie during your flight, asking for help to surprise Rafe. Why would she not help the girl who brought smiles on her brother’s moody face?

‘’Sorry, baby.’’ You looked up and rubbed your hands over his work button up, feeling the planes of his muscled chest and the warmth of his skin underneath. ‘’I just… I couldn’t stand hearing how sad you sounded yesterday. I had to get here, I tried everything in my power to get to you. Don’t be mad at her, okay? She just wanted to help me.’’

Rafe shook his head, a grin tugging at his lips despite himself. His hands slid down to your waist, holding you close as he tilted his head. ‘’You’re lucky I love you,’’ he murmured, his voice absentmindedly falling into your relationship bubble where it was just you and him.

You stayed like that for a moment, bathing in each other’s embrace, until a thought crossed your mind. ‘’Rafe? There’s one other thing I need to tell you: I left your Christmas present in New York…’’ You pulled back, guilt filling you again as you continued and explained yourself. ‘’It was on the table so I wouldn’t forget it, but—’’ 

But Rafe couldn't care less. 

‘’That’s okay. There’s only you on my wishlist anyway.’’ 

—

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