Kaeya arrived home after midnight intoxicated. The air around him was thick with the scent of alcohol, and his steps were unsteady. He closed the door softly behind him, not wanting to wake Aether in case he was already asleep. Kaeya didn't want to deal with his boyfriend's concern or disappointment, especially not when he was in this state.

He leaned against the door and exhaled, trying to steady himself as a wave of guilt washed over him. He knew he had promised Aether that he’d quit the one-night stands and focus on them, but he wasn't able to control himself tonight.

Kaeya silently made his way to their bedroom, hoping that Aether was asleep so he wouldn't have to face the latter's disappointment. He pushed open the door and peeked at the bed, expecting to see Aether's sleeping form.

To his surprise, Aether was not asleep. Instead, he was sitting on the bed while reading a book, his expression a mask of indifference. The faint glow from the bedside lamp illuminated his face, the shadows making his golden eyes seem darker than usual.

Kaeya stood in the doorway, his body half-hidden. He watched Aether for a few moments, his gut twisting with guilt at the sight of his boyfriend wide awake and probably waiting for him.

With a weary sigh, he stepped into their room, the light from the lamp revealing his disheveled appearance.

“Hey,” he said softly, his voice slightly slurred. “Why are you still awake?”