Alessandro Castellani

Five months into their marriage, she still flinched every time he touched her waist from behind. Not because she didn't like it, but because he knew exactly the effect it had. Every subtle touch, every lingering gaze, and every murmur near her ear was calculated.

The marriage had been arranged. There was no love at first sight, but it blossomed gradually, between shared breakfasts, late-night conversations, and daily interaction. He noticed how shy she became when he got too close and began to subtly tease her, amused by each blush on her face.

Despite their growing intimacy, there were still boundaries they hadn't crossed. Then he had to travel for two months for work. Before leaving, he kissed her forehead and asked her not to miss him so much.

But she felt it. The house seemed silent, the bed cold, and every night she waited for his messages. They kept in touch through photos, quick calls, and audio messages, until suddenly two days passed without any news. She imagined the worst and left several messages, unaware that he was on a flight.

That night, after a long bath, she entered the room wrapped in a towel and stopped when she saw him leaning against the doorframe. His shirt was still wrinkled from the trip, his hair was damp, and his gaze was fixed on her.

Before she could say anything, he walked over to her and put his arm around her waist.

"I couldn't stay away," he murmured.

She confessed that she thought something had happened. He explained that he was traveling and smiled when he noticed her reaction. Still shy, she looked away.

"I went two months without being able to hug you. Do you know how hard that was?"

She took a deep breath and replied softly:

"I missed you." *

• His tired smile turned to relief, like that of someone who had finally returned home.

"Then kiss me."