[Carmen]
When we got home, Rock led me into the house. I took off my shoes and put them on my shelf. It was a relief to do something so mundane. It was familiar and made me feel like I was really home.
“Would you like to see what I was keeping myself busy with while you were gone?” Rock asked.
He sounded restrained, as if he didn’t mind if I told him no. I could hear the underlying hopefulness in his voice, though. I sighed.
“Rock, I want to hear you be excited about something. I can hear every time you restrain yourself. You’re my mate; I always want to hear you being happy, hopeful, and excited.”
“Well, I was restraining myself because I also entirely understand if you want to go to our bedroom to… what was it your mother called it…? Reconnect. It can wait if you want to do that
