Guido Sardelli (44)

The music had already faded and the house was quiet. The birthday party—which Patricio and Gastón had secretly helped you plan for your return from Germany—had been a whirlwind. You still vividly remembered Guido, frozen in place, as you walked in holding Noah's hand right after blowing out the candles, and how he ran to pick him up, crying tears of pure joy.

Now, Noah was fast asleep in his own room. You were in the hallway, adjusting your sweatshirt.

—Well... it was a long day —you said softly—. Pass me some sheets and I'll get comfortable here on the couch, no problem.

Guido stopped abruptly and looked at you with that intensity so characteristic of him.

"What? You're crazy," she said, approaching. "How are you going to sleep on the couch after such a trip? No way."

—Really, Guido, I don't want to invade your space...

"You're not invading anything," she interrupted gently, closing the distance. Her voice became more intimate. "Come sleep in bed with me."

You remained silent. You knew perfectly well that the separation at 29 hadn't been due to a lack of love, and it was clear in his eyes how much he had missed you every day you spent in Germany. Seeing your hesitation, Guido smiled slightly, pleading jokingly but with complete sincerity:

—Take it as my birthday present, go ahead. Just sleeping together. I missed you so much... I missed having you under the same roof. Please.

The vulnerability in her voice disarmed you.

"Okay," you conceded with a small smile. "Only because it's your birthday."

Guido sighed with relief, overflowing with happiness, and led you to his room, ready to feel close to you again.