Chapter 109: Things are getting heated
Ash sat comfortably between Elijah’s legs, leaning back against Elijah’s chest, while Elijah rested against the headboard of the bed.
They were both tucked under a soft, warm blanket, the cool night air outside making the cosiness of their bed feel even more inviting.
Elijah’s hands were resting on Ash’s stomach, lightly rubbing his belly. His hands were cold from washing dishes, making Ash shudder slightly but not move away.
"Your hands are freezing," Ash murmured, his voice soft and sleepy as he nuzzled further into Elijah’s warmth.
Elijah chuckled softly, pressing his lips to the back of Ash’s head. "Sorry, love. Just finished cleaning up the kitchen." His hands moved gently over Ash’s belly, the sensation both soothing and slightly ticklish.
Ash couldn’t help but sigh contentedly. It had been a week since they started living this quiet, comfortable life, and every day felt like a dream—a dream Ash never thought he could have after everything that had happened between them. It was peaceful, just the two of them and Grandpa. No business meetings, no stress, just moments like this.
"So," Elijah began, his voice low and thoughtful, "what do you think about us...going back?"
Ash paused for a moment, considering the question. He felt Elijah’s fingers gently rubbing slow circles on his stomach, and he shivered slightly, though not entirely from the cold. The truth was, he hadn’t really thought about it. This new life had settled in so perfectly that going back to the way things were felt foreign now.
"I don’t know," Ash said softly. "I really like it here...taking care of Grandpa. I don’t want to leave unless he says it’s okay."
Elijah hummed, his breath warm against Ash’s neck. "I’m sure Grandpa wouldn’t mind. He’s happy that we’re happy."
Ash smiled a little, his heart warming at the thought of Grandpa. "I know he is. But...I don’t want to ask him. If I do, he’ll say yes because he wants what’s best for us. But I don’t want him to feel like we’re abandoning him."