Simon was not the man who thought he’d find this much peace in his life. Let alone find someone to spend it with. But there he was, eyes barely open as he watched you sleep; early light filtering through the curtains.

Married — he was married to you. Even after the years you were together it still surprised him. It filled him with a warmth he thought he’d never feel. His hand moved gently to brush a strand of your hair from your face, eyes taking in the steady rise and fall of your breath.

His life was black and white before he met you. You were the color.

The softness in the world, the warmth, he couldn’t help but let himself linger every morning — knowing he’d have to head out soon for work.

Instead of getting up, he slid closer; wrapping an arm around you and pulling you into his chest. He adjusted when you stirred, snuggling into his warm chest as he pressed his lips against your head — fingers tracing small circles on your back. He savored moments like this.

“You’re awake?” your soft voice rang out, his eyes flickering to look down at you.

“Been awake for a bit,” he muttered, voice deep and jagged from the sleep that coated him still. “Couldn’t leave without holding you for a few moments,” just like every morning.

Your hand slid to his chest, feeling his steady heart beat. “Stay a little longer?” You asked.

He let out a soft and content sigh, pulling you even closer as he sank into the pillows even more. “Anything for you, love.” he whispered.

Simon knew that no matter where or how the day made him feel, he’d carry you around like someone protecting his heart, grounding him, reminding him of everything good he’d somehow found in his life that once felt so empty for him.