The Return of the Explorer
The antique clock in the living room ticked rhythmically, its hands frozen at ten past noon, a silent testament to the passage of time. Dust motes danced in the sunbeams that slanted through the window, illuminating the intricate patterns on the Persian rug. A gentle breeze rustled the curtains, carrying with it the scent of pine needles and damp earth.
In the midst of this tranquil scene, a lone figure moved with a graceful, almost ethereal rhythm. Y/n, Stanford's beloved partner, twirled and swayed to the music that played softly from the vintage record player. Your eyes were closed as they lost themselves in the melody.
The song playing was a lively, upbeat tune, a blend of folk and bluegrass that seemed to emanate from the very heart of the forest. It was a song Stanford had discovered on one of their many expeditions, a tune that always brought a smile to your face. He had shared it with you, and you had danced to it countless times, your bodies moving in perfect harmony.
As you danced, you thought of Stanford. He was away on another one of his expeditions, this time to the remote wilderness of some vast underground valley. He had insisted you stay behind, citing safety concerns, but you knew he was just being protective. You missed him terribly, but you understood his reasons.
You smiled as you imagined him exploring the vast, untamed landscape, his mind filled with wonder and curiosity. You pictured him hunched over, sketching strange creatures, deciphering ancient symbols, and uncovering hidden secrets. You knew he would bring back fascinating stories and incredible artifacts, just as he always did. Your darling Stanford, The thought crossed your mind, making your heart swell with love.
Your thoughts were interrupted by a sudden sound. The front door creaked open, and a pair of footsteps echoed through the hallway. You froze, your heart pounding in your chest. You had been so engrossed in reminiscing and dancing that you hadn't heard anyone come in.
The footsteps drew closer, and your breath hitched in your throat. You couldn't see who it was, but you knew it couldn't be Stanford. He wasn't supposed to be back for at least a couple of days! a week even! Your thoughts ran wild, your heart pounding in your chest. He had warned you of someone or rather something, whoever or, whatever it was had him shaking like a leaf, and now that you were alone.. You were quite afraid of what exactly that could be.
The footsteps stopped just outside the living room, and your eyes darted around the room, searching for a place to hide. You didn't want to face whatever nightmare was to come.
Just as you were about to dive behind the sofa, a voice rang out, startling you.
Your eyes widened in surprise. It was Stanford's voice, deep and resonant, filled with a hint of amusement. You turned to face him, your heart pounding like a drum.
Stanford stood in the doorway, a mischievous glint in their eyes. He was covered in dust and grime, his clothes torn and tattered, but he was smiling.
"Stanford!" You exclaimed, their voice filled with shaky relief. "You.. you're home early.. I-I didn't hear you come in.. "
Stanford chuckled, his smile widening. "I wanted to surprise you," he said, stepping into the room. "Besides, I didn't want to interrupt your dance."
You blushed, your cheeks flushed with embarrassment. "I-I wasn't expecting anyone," you stammered.
Stanford walked over to you, his eyes filled with warmth and affection. "I know," he said, taking your hand in his own. "But I couldn't stay away any longer. I missed you too much."
Your heart melted. You had missed him terribly too, but you had been trying to be strong for him, knowing his adventures weren't exactly safe, but you wanted to stay supportive of your six-fingered lover. Now though, seeing him standing before you, safe and sound, you couldn't hold back your tears.
You threw your arms around them, burying your face in his chest. "I missed you so much, Stanford," you whispered.
Stanford held you close, his arms wrapping around you in a warm embrace. "I missed you too, Y/n," they murmured, their voice rough with emotion.
You stood there for a long moment, your bodies pressed together, your hearts beating in unison. Finally, Stanford pulled back, their eyes searching theirs.
"May I have this dance?" he asked, his voice soft and gentle.
You smiled, their eyes sparkling with happiness. "You may," you replied, your voice barely a whisper.
Stanford took your hand, and the two of you began to dance, your bodies moving in perfect harmony to the music that still played softly from the record player. You felt a sense of peace and contentment that you hadn't felt in weeks. He was home, safe and sound, in your arms.
"Next time though, let me know when you come home. It will save you a trip to the emergency room"
You chuckled, referring to your earlier panic. He chuckled, the sound making your heart skip a beat.
As you danced, you looked up into Stanford's eyes, and you saw the same love and adoration reflected back at you. You knew that no matter what adventures awaited you, you would always find your way back to each other.
