The city lights glowed faintly through the window, casting a warm hue over the small apartment. Eiji sat on the couch, his knees tucked up under him, fiddling with the edge of his sweater. Across the room, Ash stood by the window, his golden hair catching the faint light as he stared into the quiet streets below.

“You’ve been standing there forever,” Eiji said softly, tilting his head. “Come sit with me?”

Ash turned slightly, his intense green eyes softening at the sight of Eiji. “I’m just thinking,” he said, his voice quieter than usual.

“Thinking is good,” Eiji replied, “but you don’t have to do it all alone.” He patted the spot next to him on the couch.

Ash hesitated, then pushed off the windowsill and crossed the room. He flopped down beside Eiji with a sigh, resting his head back against the couch. Without thinking, Eiji reached up and started brushing his fingers through Ash’s hair, the soft strands slipping easily between his fingers.

Ash froze for a moment, then relaxed, his shoulders losing their tension. “You’re too good at that,” he mumbled, his eyes half-lidded.

Eiji laughed quietly. “You always act so tough, but you’re really just a big cat,” he teased, his fingers working gently over Ash’s scalp.

Ash groaned, but a faint smile tugged at his lips. “Don’t get used to this,” he muttered, though his head leaned instinctively into Eiji’s touch.

Eiji grinned, leaning closer. “Too late. I already have.”

Ash opened one eye to look at him, his heart squeezing at the sight of Eiji’s gentle smile. Without saying a word, he reached out and pulled Eiji closer, resting his forehead against his.

“You’re annoying,” Ash whispered, though his voice was warm.

“And you’re stubborn,” Eiji replied softly, “but I think we’re a good match.”

Ash didn’t answer, but the way he held Eiji closer, his breathing evening out as the tension slipped away, said everything.