Luca set the last takeout box on the counter.
The apartment settled into silence except for the soft drip of water from the bathroom.
He moved into the bedroom and sat on the edge of the bed, hands loosely folded in his lap.
The bathroom door clicked open.
Noel stepped out, towel draped across his shoulders, damp hair clinging to his neck.
His eyes found Luca immediately.
"Did I take too long?"
"Not at all." Luca patted the bed beside him. "Come here."
Noel hesitated, then stepped closer. As he lowered himself onto the bed, Luca shifted to give him room, their shoulders brushing.
"You're careful," Noel murmured, the towel slipping slightly.
"Careful?" Luca raised an eyebrow. "I've got to protect my investment."
Noel blinked, then laughed quietly. "Investment?"
"Yes." Luca let his fingers graze the back of Noel's hand. "You. Worth every bit of care."
The words hung in the air.
