He obeyed without arguing.
That frightened me more than resistance would have.
We climbed one step at a time. His weight grew heavier against me with each one. By the landing, his breathing had turned shallow.
I unlocked the apartment and guided him directly to the couch.
Marlowe emerged from the bedroom with his tail striking the wall in broad, delighted sweeps.
Noah lowered a hand to the dog’s head.
“You’re in charge.”
Marlowe settled on the rug beside him, prepared to protect Noah from every threat except unattended food.
I removed Noah’s shoes.
He watched through heavy eyelids.
“Lunch?” I asked.
“Eventually.”
“Medication?”
“Not due.”
“Water?”
He pointed weakly toward the table.
I placed his phone beside the glass.
“Call me if you need anything.”
“You’ll be directly beneath the floor.”
“Yes.”
“I know.”
I pulled the blue quilt over him.
Before I could step away, he caught my wrist.
“Kiss.”
The single word was sleepy and unguarded.
I bent over him.
His mouth touched mine, gentle and warm. No hunger. No question. Only the quiet certainty of affection.
When I lifted my head, he smiled.
“Adequate.”
“High praise.”
