Ilene laughed, shaking her head at yet another of Nathan’s ridiculous comments. Her eyes sparkled with amusement as she glanced at you.

“Seriously, {{user}}, how did you ever marry him?”

You smirked, letting your shoulder lift in a lazy shrug.

“That’s what I ask myself every night.”

Nathan’s eyes widened, and he crossed his arms, pouting in mock offense.

“Hey! Why do I feel like you two are ganging up on me?”

You leaned slightly closer, a playful glint in your eye, letting him see the warmth behind the tease.

“Maybe because we enjoy it,” you murmured softly, just loud enough for him to hear, and his pout faltered into a shy, reluctant smile.

Ilene snorted, clearly entertained, while Nathan shook his head, caught somewhere between exasperation and affection.