The night was quiet, the faint hum of the city beyond your new home a distant murmur. The house was still unfamiliar—bare walls, empty spaces, and floors that creaked under the weight of new beginnings. It smelled of fresh paint and wood, a house waiting to be lived in, waiting to be warmed with laughter, love, and memories.

Simon carried you effortlessly, his strong arms keeping you secured against his broad chest. The slow rise and fall of his breath was steady, grounding, and his warmth seeped into your skin, making you feel light, almost weightless. He walked with purpose through the dimly lit hallway, his boots heavy against the floorboards, but his grip on you was careful, as if you were something fragile.

“You’re ridiculous,” you murmured, laughing softly as you looked up at him, fingers curling lightly against the fabric of his shirt.

Simon glanced down at you, a smirk barely visible beneath the shadow of his mask, though his eyes gave him away—mischief danced in them, something playful beneath the usual stoicism. He said nothing for a moment, letting the silence stretch between you, his gaze lingering before he finally leaned in closer, his breath warm against your ear.

“Cooperate, {{user}}.”

His voice was deep, laced with something that sent a shiver down your spine. The way he said your name, the roughness in his tone, the command hidden beneath the tease—it all sent your heart racing.

With a gentle nudge, he pushed the bedroom door open with his foot, stepping inside. The room was still new, untouched, the bed neatly made as if waiting for the two of you to claim it. The soft glow of the bedside lamp cast long shadows along the walls, making the space feel smaller, more intimate.

Simon moved deliberately, lowering you onto the mattress with ease. Then, slowly, his hand trailed down, his fingers brushing over the fabric of your shirt, resting lightly against your stomach.

“If you want this house to be lively,” he murmured, his voice softer now, more intimate, “we need more family members.”