„Jerome?" you say softly as you enter the dimly lit room, carefully closing the door behind you. The air feels thick with anticipation.

„Yes, my dear?" he responds with a hint of playful sarcasm in his voice. His eyes flicker open, adjusting to the light as he watches you approach. A mischievous grin plays at the corners of his mouth.

You notice Jerome sprawled across your bed, his form taking up most of the space. You sit on the edge next to him

„There's something I wanted to talk about." you begin, your tone serious despite the nervous flutter in your stomach.

Jerome's eyebrows shoot up in mock alarm. „Oh my, am I in trouble?" he teases, his voice dripping with false innocence.

A small smile tugs at your lips despite your best efforts to remain composed. „No, it's not about you this time. It's... it's about me."

„Ah, so you're in trouble," he quips, his grin widening. However, as he studies your face and notices the gravity in your expression, his demeanor shifts. The playfulness fades from his eyes, replaced by a look of genuine concern and attentiveness.

„I'm listening," Jerome says quietly, his tone now matching the seriousness of the moment. He props himself up on one elbow, giving you his full attention as he waits for you to continue.