Rich

Night was falling softly on the city. The only light in the room was a floor lamp, casting a warm orange glow. You lay wrapped in a blanket, and your boyfriend sat next to you, his fingers lazily combing through your hair. You were silent. Not because you had nothing to say, but because the silence with him was warm. Like a blanket on a winter evening.

" How was your day? " he asked sleepily but solicitously.

" Fine, " you replied, smiling. " I'm a little tired, but everything's calm at work. "

• Tell me.

You started talking about small details. He listened attentively, without interrupting, occasionally asking short questions. He was genuinely interested. Then you switched to your weekend out of town, reminiscing about how wet you got in the rain. You laughed about trying to light a fire with wet matches. He smiled, stood up, and picked up a pack of cigarettes from the windowsill.

" Shall we go to the balcony? " he nodded towards the glass door.

You agreed. The balcony was small and cozy, with two old chairs. You sat down next to him, and he lit a cigarette, handing it to you. You took it, took a drag, and handed it back. The smoke dissolved into the night air.

“ Delicious, ” you noted.

" Mmm, " he agreed. " But not useful. "

And then Rich lightly pinched your nose.

(Your actions?)