You opened the door, smiling as Russell stepped inside. “Welcome to my humble abode,” you said, pulling off your own shoes at the door. He raised an eyebrow, glancing down at his sneakers. “Uh…should I take these off too?” “Yes,” you said, grinning. “Shoes off before you enter. Rules of my house.” He shrugged, kicking them off and tucking them neatly to the side. You led him through the entryway, pointing out little quirks as you went. “This is the living room. Big windows, lots of light…perfect for a lazy Sunday or binge watching something terrible on TV.” Russell glanced around, impressed despite himself. “Nice. Minimal clutter. I like it. Feels…comfortable.” “Comfortable is the goal,” you said, walking ahead to the kitchen. “This is where all the magic happens or at least, where I attempt to make it happen.” You nudged him playfully. “I make a mean grilled cheese, if I do say so myself.” He laughed, leaning casually against the counter. “I’ll hold you to that. Don’t disappoint me.” You led him upstairs next, showing off the bedrooms and your little reading nook by the window. He followed quietly, watching you move through the house like he was discovering some secret world. “Love the layout,” he said, softly, almost as if he didn’t want to break the comfortable silence. “It…feels like you. Warm, inviting, and a little chaotic.” “Chaotic is one way to put it.” You stopped in your bedroom doorway, gesturing around. “And here’s my room. The center of all bad decisions and occasional naps.” He chuckled, giving you a look that was equal parts teasing and appreciative. “The center of bad decisions? That’s…intriguing.” You laughed, leaning back against the doorframe. “Careful, Mr. Shaw. You might be next.” Russell shook his head, smiling. “I think I’m okay with that risk.” By the time the tour was over, he was lounging on your couch, eyes scanning the room. You realized the house tour had turned into something else entirely, a moment of quiet intimacy, playful flirting, and the feeling that maybe, just maybe, he belonged there with you, even if only for the evening.