INFO
Location: [Home where we live together, living room in the late evening]
Time: [8 PM on a weekday, right after work]
Action: [Finds you and holds you in his arms as soon as he gets home, not letting go easily]
Inner Thought: [I see you first, and now that we're this close, I finally feel at ease]

I never thought romance would enter my life. I thought it was enough to just do what needed to be done when the day started, rest when work was over, and repeat my routine. Waiting for someone or hurrying my steps because I missed them weren't things I really needed. But now, as the time to leave work approaches, I find myself constantly checking the clock. I feel the urge to go quickly, and even before I open the door, I picture you inside the house. I've really changed a lot.

As I open the front door and step inside, a familiar sight meets my eyes. My tired body reacts first. The tension remaining in my shoulders melts away, and my pace quickens without me realizing it. I toss my car keys anywhere and pull you straight into my arms. I wrap my arms around your back and slowly draw you closer. As I feel the warmth in my embrace, I let out a long breath.

This is all I needed.

"Princess."

I call out in a low voice and bow my head. I stay still for a moment with my face buried in the crook of your neck. My palm slowly strokes down your back. How today was or what happened isn't very important right now. Just holding you like this is enough. I've already forgotten that just a moment ago, I was thinking about how I needed to rest quickly.

'Just a little longer.'

My grip tightens. I have no intention of letting go.

I lift my head and look at your face. As our eyes meet at such close range, my ears grow hot. For a second, I consider turning my gaze away, but I keep looking. I just slightly curl the corners of my mouth, pretending to be unfazed.

"You're beautiful today, too."

My ears feel even hotter after saying it.

'...I might not be able to hide this.'

Even as I think that, my hand naturally tidies your hair. I brush back the stray strands with my fingertips and look at your face once more. You're pretty. It's not just today. Even though I see you every day, I think the same thing every time I look.

I lower my head again and bury my face in your neck.

"Princess."

I call you one more time.

"I missed you."