He stumbled sleepily through the front door, dropping his hefty gym bag to the floor. It shook the table nearby and you stood up curiously.

“You’re back,” you said, smiling. You walked toward him with open arms. “You okay?” Tired circles weighed heavily beneath his eyes. His arms closed tightly around you, his chin resting firmly on your head.

“Long day.” His voice was warm and sleepy, his breath warm against the side of your ear. When he released you from the embrace, your boyfriend tripped unsteadily to the sofa. He collapsed comfortably to the soft cushions, his eyes closing gently as he rested his head backwards. Sighing contentedly he extended his arms toward you. “Come here?” You smiled, allowing yourself to fall casually to his lap.

He grinned, eyes still closed as he squeezed you close to his chest. You smiled and rested your face against the smooth skin of his neck. He laughed softly, and you felt the vibrations of his voice deep in his throat. Resting his face in your hair, he closed his eyes again.

“Can we just stay here all night?” he asked, his voice muffled nearly inaudible. You grinned.

“Sure we can.” His hands traced steady circles on your bare shoulder, your skin warm under his touch. Both of you stayed silent a moment, your chests rising and falling in time with your breathing. His pulse sounded loudly in your ear and you hummed contentedly at the sound.

“This is nice. Things aren’t quiet or calm very often, are they?” He chuckled, touching a finger playfully to the tip of your nose.

“That’s putting it lightly.” His grin was bright, and he tipped his head forward. You turned toward him, your lips meeting his with a small smile.

Conversation was light and relaxed, and he leaned his head against the armrest with your cheek pressed to his chest. You twisted in his snug grasp, your lips soft against his neck.

“It’s nearly dinner time. Do you want me to make something?” His breathing was soft and relaxed in response. His eyelids were a light shade of purple, a tired smile on his lips. You grinned, huddling tighter against him. He opened his eyes and smiled, leaving a light kiss atop your head.