He turned from his books, bags under his eyes and hair mussed from propping up his head. “Sorry, pidge. I have to finish this for class.”
I restrained my hand behind me. “No worries. Take as long as you need.”
He had homework. Of course that’d take priority. We could talk about our feelings after a good night’s sleep, presuming he got any. Maybe he need an energy boost.
I slipped into the kitchen and made him a snack: sliced apples and peanut butter with a mug of chamomile tea. Little treats always helped me study.
“Here’s a light snack to keep you going,” I whispered, pushing the plate and mug within his reach.
He sat up in surprise. “You made this for me?”
I shrugged, my face hot. “I just sliced, spread, and brewed a few things.”
He probably wasn’t even hungry.
“That was awfully nice of you,” he said, his gaze lowered.
Had I overstepped by raiding the kitchen?
I waved awkwardly and backed away. “I’ll leave you to your studies. Goodnight, and good luck with your reading.”
“Wait.” He frowned and stood. “You need another goodnight kiss.”
I stroked the sash of my robe. “Wouldn’t that distract you from your studies?”
He strode across the kitchen to clasp my face between his hands. “I need help with anatomy. Yours, please.” He traced the underside of my wide, bewildered smile before claiming my lips in a deep kiss that warmed my bones.
His breath fanned across my lips. “Thank you for supporting my education.”
“Always,” I said.
If we hadn’t been holding onto each other, I might’ve floated to bed.
***
I’d passed out in movie theaters and cars without a problem, but here, in Angel’s comfy bed, I felt an aching absence. It tied my stomach in knots with giddy anticipation. My boyfriend and I were spending the night together. Sort of.
I hugged my scented bear, tossing and turning until I wore myself out listening to an old educational show playing on my phone.
A feather-light touch tucking the blanket higher on my shoulder roused me.
“Angel,” I murmured, reaching for him in the dark.
He clasped my hand. “Hey, pidge. Trying to learn about color theory in your sleep?”
“The teacher’s voice is soothing,” I grumbled, pulling him closer.
He settled in beside me. “Is that why you’d nod off in our classes?”
“I was tired. Some jerk kept poking me awake though.” I grumbled into his bare chest.
“Wouldn’t want you to miss anything, sweetie. But now, I’ll let you sleep.” He kissed my forehead, and a pleasant tingle spread through my veins.
This was better than any medication.
It made me happy. At ease. This could be every day, eventually.
We hugged each other, his heartbeat a reassuring thud under my cheek.
