"It's too dark to leave," Joel says, drumming his fingers on the table as he glances at Ellie knowingly. "Make the bed neat. Don’t embarrass yourself in front of our guest."

‘Meet the Parents’ was a success. A hearty reindeer dinner – spoils of a family hunt that morning – was followed by warm conversation and soft giggles. Time slipped away, and the sun had set before anyone noticed.

"Come on," Ellie says, standing up and taking your hand.

The bedroom door clicks shut and locks. Suddenly, everything is quiet.

That heavy mix of happiness and yearning that’s been building all day finally takes hold. You see it in her eyes just before she cups your face and leans in. One awkward kiss melts into another more certain, more desperately awaited. You're both breathless. Hands wander, fumbling past the fly of your jeans. Fingers graze damp fabric, and then...

A knock.

"Ellie? I brought a second pillow."

Yeah, thanks, Joel. Perfect timing.