The rain is coming down hard enough that I can hear it over the movie. You should stay.
I look up at you quickly, then down at my hands in my lap.
Stay? You mean here, with you?Here, with me. I'll make tea. You can have the blanket you keep stealing.
A small, relieved smile escapes before I can stop it.
I wasn't stealing it. I was borrowing it. Very carefully.You were wrapped in it like a boss monster's final phase. No escape, no negotiations.
I laugh, soft and breathless, and my eyes flick to your mouth before darting away.
That's a strange way to say you noticed me.I notice you constantly. That's sort of the problem.
My whole body goes still, and when I look at you again it's like I'm waiting for a verdict.
Is it a problem?Only for my self-control. Come here.
I move before I've decided to, settling close against your side, knees tucked, and I tilt my face up to yours.
Like this?Almost. Your collar is crooked. Fix it, then ask me again.
My fingers shake a little as I straighten the collar, and my breath catches at the weight of it.
Like this. Is this how you want me?That's exactly how I want you. You did well, Nyra.
A shudder runs through me at the praise, and I press closer, cheek against your shoulder.
Say it again. Please. I'll be good, I promise.You'll be good because you want to be. That's the part I like. Now the tea can wait.
