You understand Dr. Robeska's logic in you moving back into the apartment. She felt that yours and Aaron's relationship would recover quicker if you had this time together at home, like you used to. When you talked about the things you did together outside of skating, it was clear you both had a good time hanging out together.

You needed to get back in sync, and aside from Aaron's tantrum on the ice, it has worked. You wanted to move back, too, which you told Nate before Robeska brought it up. you were worried that Nathan and you could only work being in each other's company constantly and that as soon as his NHL career started, you wouldn't be able to offer him the support he needs, which would drive you apart.

But you’re not happy here and you miss your boys.

One boy in particular.

After a few rings, you worry he's not going to answer your call, that he's busy with his friends or got his phone on study mode, but right before the line disconnects his face fills your screen. "Sorry, my phone was charging next to my bed. Is everything all right?" he says warily, the little crease in between his eyebrows deepening when he looks at his screen.

"The clothes I stole from you don't smell like you anymore."

“...Is that a good thing or a bad thing?"

"A bad thing. A horrible, terrible, catastrophically bad thing. I miss you and it's making me unsettled."

"Baby, you just saw me, please don't feel unsettled. What do you need me to do?"

"Can you stay here tonight? I know you don't want to be around Aaron, but he'll be in his room, and we will be in mine," you ramble off quickly. "You won't see him. I just need you, Nate. I need you to do that thing you do where you magically make everything better."

The corner of his mouth quirks into your favourite sort of smile. It's the smile you get when you’ve taken him by surprise but in a good way.

"I, uh, I dunno how I do that, but I'm leaving right now. Do you want me to get you anything on the way?"