You were sprawled out on Patrick’s bed, flipping lazily through the pages of a comic book, while the soft glow of his TV illuminated the room. Patrick sat nearby, engrossed in his video game, fingers flying across the controller. For a while, you were content in your separate worlds, but soon, the story in your comic couldn’t hold your attention any longer. A playful idea sparked in your mind.

With a mischievous grin, you tossed the comic aside, slipping off the bed and creeping closer to where Patrick sat. Without saying a word, you settled next to him and gently prodded his side with your finger.

“Stop,” he said, his lips twitching into a smile, trying to stay focused on his game. You ignored him, poking again.

“Seriously, babe, stop,” he repeated, laughing now, his voice lighter. But he didn’t sound serious. You knew he was enjoying this just as much as you were.

Before you could poke him again, Patrick paused his game, the sudden silence making your heart skip a beat. In one swift movement, he grabbed you by the waist and hoisted you over his shoulder, his laugh deep and warm. You squealed in surprise as he carried you effortlessly across the room.

With a playful bounce, he tossed you back onto the bed, your laughter filling the air as you landed softly against the pillows. He gave you a quick, teasing smirk before returning to his game as if nothing had happened. But the warmth in his eyes lingered, a silent promise that he wasn’t quite done with you yet.