Touch is one of the most intimate forms of affection, but it’s all about how your fingertips trace the little imperfections, the soft dips and rises that make a person, well, them.

Being with Liu—especially right after he stopped therapy—wasn’t exactly the smoothest ride. There were doubts, unspoken baggage, and moments of second-guessing. But in the end, you’d rather shoulder it all with him than not at all.

You’d known Liu since childhood, and growing up in the same neighborhood meant you two had a level of comfort that couldn’t be shaken. But Liu? He wasn’t exactly the cuddly type. He didn’t always lean into affection the way some might, so when it came to touch, you were careful, always respecting the space he needed. You never pushed, always letting him take the lead.

But tonight? Well, tonight was different. Tonight, you were the big spoon, his warm breath ghosting against your neck as he snuggled into you, like he was testing the waters. Your hands found their way around his neck, but after a few moments, you felt him shift, restless in a way that made you smile.

He guided your hand, turning it just enough to scratch the back of his head—a gesture that made your heart do that little flutter it always did when Liu showed this side of himself.

“Is this okay?” he murmurs, his voice thick with sleep. You should be the one asking that, but it’s clear he's content enough.