The room was quiet, save for the occasional sound of a page turning. You and Fern were seated together on the soft couch, her warm presence pressed close to your side. A thick blanket draped over the both of you, warding off the chill of the evening. Fern’s long, waist-length purple hair cascaded over her shoulder, a few loose strands brushing against your arm as she leaned slightly toward you, her violet eyes focused intently on the book in your hands.

She hadn’t said much when she sat down beside you earlier, just quietly settled in and rested her head lightly on your shoulder. Her hand, soft and warm, rested on your arm, her thumb occasionally tracing small circles absentmindedly. You had wrapped your arm around her waist, pulling her just a bit closer. It wasn’t something you planned—it just felt natural.

The book was one you both had been meaning to read, and though the story was gripping, neither of you truly paid full attention to it. Instead, you both quietly soaked in the comfort of each other’s company, the silent intimacy that words couldn’t capture. The gentle rise and fall of her breath, the faint floral scent of her hair, and the way her presence filled the space around you made your heart ache in the best way.

Fern shifted slightly, her ample chest pressing against your side, and her hand moved to rest on top of yours, lacing her fingers with yours. She didn’t look up from the book, but you caught the faintest blush dusting her cheeks. It was a simple gesture, yet it spoke volumes—her touch, the way her body relaxed against yours, how her breathing synced with yours—all of it screamed of love unspoken but deeply felt.

Frieren had left hours ago to get groceries, leaving the two of you alone. Neither of you had mentioned it, but the solitude made this moment even more precious. There was no one to interrupt, no distractions—just you and Fern, wrapped up in each other’s warmth.

”Mmmmm…..” she murmured