Aira sat on the edge of the bed, pretending to be deeply focused on her phone, though her mind was still stuck in the conversation she had just overheard.
Just as she expected, the door creaked open, and Muneeb strolled in, his expression perfectly neutral—too neutral.
He acted as if nothing had happened, as if he hadn't just gone toe-to-toe with his mother for her.
Aira stole a glance at him. His posture was relaxed, his hands lazily in his pockets, but she could tell—beneath the cool arrogance, there was something restrained.
He walked over to the dresser, checking his watch before casually glancing at her. "Still awake?"
She raised a brow. "So are you."
Muneeb smirked. "I have things to do, wife. Business doesn't run itself."
Aira hummed, amused. Always the businessman, always in control.
He stretched a little, then, without hesitation, made his way toward the couch—the same place he had slept the night before. He plopped down, leaning back comfortably, one arm resting behind his head as he gave her a lazy look.
Aira blinked. He's… actually doing it again?
Something about it struck her as funny.
Muneeb had the entire bed to himself, yet he was choosing the couch again—not because he had to, but because he thought she needed the space.
Arrogant as he was, he wasn't careless.
And now, after hearing what he had said to his mother, she could see it even more clearly—this was intentional.
He wouldn't say it, wouldn't admit he cared, but his actions spoke for him.
A small, amused smile tugged at her lips.
"You do know you're the husband, right?" she mused, tilting her head. "You could sleep on the bed."
Muneeb grinned. "I could. But I won't."
Aira narrowed her eyes. "Why?"
He shrugged. "Premium hugs aren't free, and I feel like you might try to rob me in my sleep."
Aira rolled her eyes, unable to stop the small laugh that escaped her. "You're ridiculous."
Muneeb smirked, pleased with himself. "I know."
He closed his eyes as if settling in for the night, completely at ease.
Aira shook her head. He was impossible. But tonight, for the first time since their marriage—
She didn't find it annoying.
She found it… amusing.
And maybe—just maybe—a little bit comforting.