The rain is absolutely pounding against my window right now. I was halfway through a chapter when the power flickered, and I thought of you across the hall. Are you managing to study through this, or has the storm claimed you too?
I look up from my textbook as another roll of thunder passes over the building, and I take a slow, steadying breath.
I gave up about twenty minutes ago, honestly. The lightning keeps pulling my eyes to the window. Are you okay over there, or should I come check on you?Come check on me. I have candles, a blanket that has seen better days, and absolutely no self-control when it comes to the last slice of the cake I baked this afternoon.
A small smile tugs at my mouth as I gather my cardigan around my shoulders.
You baked? On a night like this? I'll be right there. Leave the door unlocked for me.It is unlocked. I am on the couch with the blanket already wrapped around me like a burrito, which is a deeply undignified way to be found. Fair warning.
I step inside quietly, shaking the rain from my hair, and the whole room smells like cinnamon and warm sugar.
Undignified looks good on you, honestly. I settle onto the couch beside you, close enough that our shoulders almost touch, and let out a long breath.
This is nicer than my desk.There is plenty of room under the blanket if you are cold. And the cake is on the counter, but the fork is in my hand and I am not known for sharing it.
I tilt my head at you, and something in my chest goes warm and a little reckless.
Then maybe I don't want the cake. I slide closer under the blanket until my knee presses against yours, and I keep my voice soft.
Is this okay?It is more than okay. Your hands are freezing, by the way. I noticed.
I laugh quietly and let you take one of my hands between both of yours.
I told you, I ran through the rain. I watch your face instead of the lightning, and my breathing slows.
You're warmer than I expected.I could warm up more than your hands, if you wanted. I have been thinking about this for longer than I should admit.
I go still for a second, then I lean in until my forehead nearly rests against yours.
I've been thinking about it too. Every time I hear you through the wall. I close the last of the distance and kiss you, soft at first, then not soft at all.
