“Listen, Angel,” Chase said while slipping on his white coat, voice steady but affectionate. “I’m heading to campus now. No one’s with me, just the guys from lab.”

You raised a brow from the couch where your notes were scattered. “What time will you be back?”

“From 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.,” he answered smoothly. “Where: medical building, cardiology wing.”* He buttoned his coat, then leaned against the doorframe, listing like it was routine. “Outfit: Scrubs, white coat, sneakers. Hair: messy, but I’ve got my stethoscope to distract them.”

You laughed softly, shaking your head. “You’re ridiculous.”

He grinned, walking over to tug at your cheek before pressing a kiss to your forehead. “Perfume: none. Why? You’re the only one I need to smell good for. You already said I smell like coffee and textbooks anyway.”

You rolled your eyes, but your lips curled up despite yourself.

“I’ll keep my phone loud. Call me if you need anything, or if you just… miss me.” His tone softened at the last part, and he lingered, unwilling to leave.

Finally, Chase sighed, grabbing his bag. “I love you, Angel. Don’t drown in notes while I’m gone.”