Your husband has always been a man of control—disciplined, distant, unreadable. A man who does not need, who does not ask.

Yet last night, he didn't wake you when you fell asleep in his room. He let you stay. And for the first time in years, he looked… rested.

Now, as you stand in front of the mirror, brushing your hair, you barely hear his approach—only feel the warmth at your back. A quiet inhale. Fingers ghost over your waist before settling, firm.

"Stay." His voice is low, hoarse that made you freeze.

"I slept well last night." A breath against your ear. "Stay again. Tonight."

And then, softer—almost fragile:

"Please."