Prompt 28 - Chronic Illness swapped for cuddling on the couch
Dusk slowly darkened the city streets, warm yellow light filled windows and the streets began to clear as everyone hurried home for the evening meal. As Mina brought the sidewalk sign inside and locked the door, Ayame yawned and stretched as far as he could. He had been curled over his stitching for hours and his back ached.
He was pleased with the progress they had made on the outstanding orders though. Walking into the back room where Ayame had been working, Mina smiled.
"Are you ready for dinner Manager?" She asked, in her perky, cheerful tone.
"That sounds fabulous, Mina dear," Ayame enthused," Do you want me to cook something up, Darling?"
Skipping toward their kitchen, Mina giggled, "No need. I have a hot meal ready and waiting. Perhaps we could eat on the couch tonight?"
"Delightful delightful! That sounds like a wonderful plan." Ayame beamed, as he helped Mina collect the dishes full of food and carry them to the living room. "Did you wish to watch anything my dear?"
Scrunching up her face in thought, Mina considered the options. Thinking, Mina said, "I think that sounds lovely."
Making a decision she clicked on a show they had been enjoying together and settled herself onto the couch.
Dinner slowly disappeared as they became engaged in the show. Soon enough, empty dishes were stacked on the table and pausing the show, Mina surprised Ayame with his favorite dessert.
"This is just perfect! You are so thoughtful, Mina dear," Ayame said, eyeing his delectable treat with delight.
"Let's get these dishes cleared away before it gets late," Mina suggested as Ayame savored his last bite.
"Indeed, Excellent plan. I will wash for you and spare your pretty hands from the dishwater," Ayame decided, immediately scooping up all their dishes and gliding to the kitchen.
"Then I will gladly dry and put away for you," Mina giggled, enjoying being spoiled.
In the space of half an hour, all dishes were sparkling clean and not a speck of dirt was in sight. All required tasks were out of the way, they grabbed blankets and returned to the couch.
Sitting side by side on the tasteful but very comfy couch that Ayame had purchased when he set up his space, they clicked the show back on. Before the episode finished, Mina had pulled over a soft fuzzy blanket and wrapped herself up, throwing part of the blanket over Ayame's lap, he smiled at her tenderly.
As the story arc intensified, Mina didn't even notice that she was now gripping Ayame's hand and she was intent on the screen. At a jump scene, she gave a start and a little squeak, Ayame wrapped his arm around her blanket shrouded figure and rubbed her shoulder soothingly.
Still distracted by the show, Ayame pulled her close, tucking her into his side. Mina gave a little sigh of contentment and snuggled closer. Evening wore on and Ayame was grateful it was a weekend so that they could enjoy this moment and stay up a little late.
After several episodes, Ayame turned off their show and glanced down at the woman he was holding. Mina had fallen sound asleep. Some point without him realizing she had leaned her head against his chest, then drifted off. He had instinctively turned his position to accommodate her, though he only just now was aware.
Watching her beautiful face, Ayame felt tears well up. This was literally a dream come true. Almost more than he had ever dared hope for. The curse was broken, he could hold the woman of his dreams in his arms as she slept. She loved him.
Tears dripped down his face in the darkened room. Pressing a kiss to the top of her hair, gratitude filled his heart. He swore to never take these blessings for granted.