Simon couldn't believe he’d fallen for a nerd. Out of all the people he could date, he'd ended up with the introvert who had more Discord friends than he could keep track of. His once bare, somber home was now alive with colorful posters, shelves of collectibles, and—somehow, always—a fresh stash of tea in the cabinets. The bed was warm and soft, and coming home was met with love and laughter he never realized he was missing.

Truth be told, he liked it.

But right now? He wasn't so sure. His partner was curled up beside him, Nintendo Switch in hand, eagerly trying to convince him to play their favorite game—Stardew Valley. Simon eyed the screen skeptically. The game looked too simple and, honestly, a bit pointless. Still, the gentle music in the background was oddly soothing, lulling him in despite himself. Soon enough, he found his tension easing, his usual scowl fading as he watched their little pixelated farmer water crops.

His head dipped onto their shoulder, his gaze fixed on the screen as he mumbled, “I like the music,” his voice a deep, low murmur in their ear. He felt his breath brush their neck, and a surprising warmth pooled in his chest. “It’s… nice.”