I know she's coming up behind me, not from her footsteps, but just because I know her so well. She stands behind me, slipping her arms underneath mine and hugging me. My hands remain in my pockets.

"You gonna be okay?" She knows better than to ask what's bothering me. She knows I'll tell her when I feel more comfortable, or when I just feel like telling her.

"Yeah." I turn around in her arms and lean down, kissing her. When I pull away, she reaches her hand up and touches my face.

"You could do with a shave."

I smile and press her hand to my face, rubbing my cheek against her hand, making her feel the slight stubble even more.