The elevator ride up to Alex's apartment was quiet.
Soft instrumental music played from hidden speakers, but Leo barely heard it.
He stood close enough that their shoulders touched, Alex's hand resting lightly at the small of his back.
Every floor that passed made the air feel warmer, heavier with anticipation.
The door clicked shut behind them, sealing out the cold night.
Alex flicked on a single lamp, bathing the living room in soft amber light.
Leo walked a few steps inside, then turned to face him.
"You're quiet," Alex said, hanging their coats.
"I'm thinking." Leo's voice was low. "About how many times I imagined this. Coming back here with you. Not just for a night… but properly."
Alex crossed the room slowly. "I imagined it too. Every single day you were gone."
Leo reached for him first. He slid his hands up Alex's chest, then looped them around his neck. "I was stupid for staying away so long."
