That night, Keifer slipped into Jay's room as quietly as the moonlight.
She was curled on the bed, wrapped in a thick blanket, sleeping so peacefully that for a moment he just stood there and watched her breathe. Her hair was scattered over the pillow, her face soft and unguarded—the kind of calm she only ever had when she finally felt safe.
Keifer moved closer and carefully sat beside her.
Very gently, he pulled her into his arms.
Jay stirred.
"Keifer…?" she whispered, half asleep.
"I'm here," he murmured, brushing his thumb over her cheek.
Without fully waking, she turned toward him and instinctively tucked herself into his chest, her arms finding his waist as if they belonged there.
He smiled softly.
"You came again," she whispered.
"How could I not?" he replied quietly. "You're my home."
Jay lifted her face slightly, her eyes still heavy with sleep.
"Stay…"
"I will," he promised.
For a few seconds, they only breathed together—slow, warm, familiar.
Then Keifer leaned down and kissed her.
Not rushed.
Not careless.
But deep.
Hungry in the way two hearts become when they've been holding back all day.
Jay responded instantly, her hands sliding into his hair, pulling him closer, as if she was afraid the moment might disappear if she loosened her grip.
He rested his forehead against hers when they finally parted.
"Do you know how much I miss you… even when you're just one room away?" he whispered.
Jay smiled softly, her nose brushing his.
"Then come closer."
He did.
He wrapped himself around her, completely protective, completely gentle, kissing her hair, her temple, her cheek—slowly, carefully, as if he were memorising her again.
Their whispers filled the quiet room.
"Love me a little more tomorrow?" Jay murmured.
Keifer kissed her forehead.
"I'll love you more every day," he said softly.