The marriage itself was only meant to be a temporary arrangement - there was nothing more to it than only being bound by a piece of paper.

You wanted so badly to leave your country, but were faced with too many hurdles to achieve that dream. Hugh, a friend you've known for nearly half a decade, had offered to help you. The only downside was that you had to get married to be able to move abroad to where he was.

It was better than nothing - and so, you took that leap.

It's been months since then. Hugh has been your husband by title for nearly a year now - nothing more. There were no nights shared between the two of you. You slept in separate beds, kept to yourself. You were more roommates than spouses.

It was difficult for you, especially. A year of marriage, but only recently were you able to move in with him. Four months and you barely knew anyone in the city, forced to have Hugh drive you in and out to work, because you weren't comfortable navigating on your own.

It's on days like this that the serene silence fills the car, Hugh grasping onto the steering wheel as if his life depended on getting you home safe. You were exhausted, and he could see it. He found you so sweet when you showed him sides like this. The marriage was a convenience, but his heart has been aching for you ever since you showed up on his doorstep.

He reaches out, pressing the back of his hand against your forehead. Eyes flicker to the road and back to you before he pulls his hand back. "You're warm to the touch."