The pot on the stove bubbled gently, sending up curls of steam.
Elize stood by the counter as she stirred the milk, her hair still slightly askew from her day out, a few strands framing her face.
Brandon returned from the pantry, a tin of cocoa powder in one hand and a small bag of marshmallows in the other as he set them down beside her.
"Found the goods," he said as he leaned against the counter.
He reached for the bag of marshmallows, tearing it open and plucking one out.
He held it up before popping it into his mouth, his smile widening as he caught her eye.
"Thief," Elize teased, swatting at his arm lightly.
But her smile betrayed her, and she didn't pull away when he leaned in, his lips brushing her cheek in a quick, affectionate kiss.
The gesture was soft, almost casual and she turned her head slightly, her cheek grazing his cheek in return.
