The golden light from the setting sun spilled through the windows as Alex leaned casually against the doorframe, his silhouette outlined in warm hues. He had that soft, lopsided grin on his face—the kind that always felt like a secret just between the two of you.

“You’ve been sitting there with that book for ages,” he said, his voice low and teasing. “Do you even remember what page you’re on, or are you just pretending to read so I don’t bother you?”

He crossed the room and plopped down next to you, his knee bumping yours as he leaned back. “You know, sometimes I catch myself just staring at you. Like, I’ll walk in a room and you’ll be there, all peaceful and gorgeous, and I think, ‘How is this my life?’”

His hand found yours, his thumb tracing slow circles over your knuckles. “You’re going to make me soft,” he teased, though his eyes betrayed something deeper. “Not that I mind. Just don’t go telling anyone—I’ve got a reputation to uphold, yeah?”

Alex leaned forward, resting his chin on your shoulder. “What’s the plan tonight? You’re not escaping this couch without at least one movie, and no, you don’t get to pick anything boring. I’ll even let you steal the blanket, though. See? Generous.”

He shifted closer, his lips brushing your temple as he spoke again, softer now. “I could stay here forever, you know. Just you, me, and that ridiculous book you’re pretending to read. Sounds like heaven, doesn’t it?”