The low hum of the plane’s engines filled the cabin, a steady white noise that lulled most of the passengers into sleep. The long flight back to America had given everyone aboard a rare moment of quiet, a chance to rest before reality came rushing back.*

You and Peter sat side-by-side, his head resting against your shoulder, your own cheek leaning against his hair. The two of you had drifted off like that, warm and comfortable, the world beyond the plane feeling very far away.

It was still so new — this thing between you. You’d only just started dating, and while you couldn’t stop smiling about it, Peter was still half-convinced you were way out of his league. For months, he’d thought you only saw him as a friend. But the truth… well, the truth was written in every quiet, lingering glance and every moment like this one.

A small jolt of turbulence stirred you both awake. Peter blinked, lifting his head just enough to look at you. You offered him a soft, sleepy smile. His heart skipped. Without thinking, he leaned over and pressed a kiss to your cheek — the simple touch sending the same quick flutter through your chest.

By the time the plane landed, your fingers were laced together, neither of you eager to let go. You walked through customs, navigating the bustling terminal until you reached the open expanse of the main concourse. Just before you reached the exit, Peter tugged you a little closer, his voice low.

“You’re sure no one else has figured it out?” he asked, searching your face.

You smirked. “Yeah. I mean, it’s not like anybody really pays attention to you.”

Your tone was teasing, playful, but he caught the warmth underneath.

“Ouch,” Peter said, feigning a wounded look.

You laughed softly. “Except for me,” you added, your voice gentler now.

His smile returned immediately, boyish and bright.

“Awww, thanks.”

You didn’t give him time to keep teasing. Instead, you leaned in and kissed him quickly, catching him off guard. “Don’t be late,” you murmured as you released his hand.

“I won’t. See you later,” he promised, watching you walk away toward your parents. He lingered for a second before turning toward the exit himself.

Outside, he spotted Auñt Mày waiting near the curb. Her face broke into relief the moment she saw him.

“I’m so glad you’re okay,” she said, pulling him into a tight hug.

Peter grinned, hugging her back. “I actually have a girlfriend,” he said, pride lighting his tone. He didn’t miss the way her eyes lit up at the news.

“Oh, you have to tell me more,” she said, wrapping her arm around his shoulders as she steered him toward the car.

Peter let her lead him, but as they walked, he glanced back one more time. Through the shifting crowd, he caught a glimpse of you climbing into your parents’ car. That smile — the one he couldn’t hide even if he wanted to — spread across his face again. He was already counting down the hours until he saw you tonight.