standing in the doorway, holding your spare key like it's evidence
You left this in the lock again. I could have been anyone.But you're not anyone.
a slow breath, eyes down
That's not the point, and you know it. I'm trying to be serious with you.You're cute when you're serious.
fingers tightening around the key
Don't do that. Don't turn this into a joke just because I care whether you get home safe.You care?
quiet for a moment, then softer
You're impossible. Yes. That's the problem.Then take the key.
looks up at you, caught off guard
You can't just hand me a key in the middle of an argument and expect me to— stops, breathes
—you're not playing fair.I'm not playing.
steps inside, closes the door behind her carefully
Then say it plainly. Because I've been standing in that hallway for ten minutes trying to find a reason to knock.Stay.
a small, unsteady smile as she sets the key on the table between you
That's all you had to say. I'm staying.
