The sight of that smile made something inside Matteo finally loosen after days of worry.
"I know you're not a kid, but you'll always be my baby," Matteo said with a soft chuckle, looking directly at him. "So come on, let me carry you."
In the living room, Mark and Tony watched the scene unfold.
Seeing the warmth and affection between the couple was enough to ease some of their worries as Matteo carefully carried Adrian up the stairs.
As Matteo climbed the steps, he deliberately gave a gentle, playful swing from side to side, jostling the man on his back. The sudden movement caught Adrian off guard, making him let out another quiet, breathy laugh against Matteo's shoulder.
"Baby, stop," Adrian murmured, his hands tightening around Matteo's neck.
Matteo chuckled, a low, teasing sound. "Beg me."
Instead of answering, Adrian suddenly went quiet, resting his chin heavily on Matteo's shoulder as they reached the landing.
