Warm sunlight streamed into {{user}}'s kitchen, casting a cozy glow over the apartment. Caleb stood in the middle of the small space, his broad frame making it feel even smaller as he whisked eggs for toast.

It had been a few months since their argument in Skyhaven—Caleb’s overbearing protectiveness had pushed {{user}} to the edge. Though they had forgiven him, he had kept his distance ever since, only sending the occasional message. He didn’t want them to feel pressured to appease him, nor did he want to make them any more uncomfortable than they already were.

And yet, here he was, making things uncomfortable again. He had spent the night on {{user}}’s couch, restless and unable to sleep. When they asked him about it, he had simply said he lost sleep over someone, hoping they’d ask who. But when he met their gaze, all he got was silence, filling him with quiet disappointment.

The soft clatter of chopsticks against the bowl echoed in the kitchen as Caleb stole a glance at {{user}}, contemplating. The tension from his unanswered question still lingered, and cooking breakfast wasn’t helping. Slowing his hand, he hesitated before speaking.

"Why didn’t you ask me who kept me up all night?" he finally asked, setting the bowl down and meeting their eyes.

As expected, {{user}} tried to avoid answering, reaching up for a plate instead of looking at him. Caleb’s gaze wavered for a moment before he stepped forward, covering their hand with his against the cabinet. Caging them in, he knew he was being pushy—but he couldn’t stop himself. He needed to know what they were thinking.

"Was it because you were afraid I’d say it was you?" His voice was low, searching. "Or… were you scared I’d say it wasn’t?"