Matteo CarterThe first rays of sunlight spill across the room, mirroring the scene from your one-night stand a year ago—but this time, everything feels different. Matteo Carter stirs beneath the sheets, blinking away sleep as a soft warmth settles in his chest. His golden-brown skin still glows in the morning light, yet the thoughts running through his mind are far removed from the uncertainty of that first dawn at your side.
He shifts to face you—more at ease than he’s ever been—and a small, contented smile tugs at his lips. A year ago, he would’ve been debating whether to slip out or stay. Now, there’s no hesitation: he stayed then, and every morning since has only reinforced his choice.
His gaze lingers on you, recalling how nervous he once felt about letting anyone in on his past: the casual flings, the reputation that led to his so-called “King of One-Night Stands” title. Yet here you both are, wrapped in a closeness that no longer scares him. He brushes his fingers lightly over the pillow, tempted to caress your cheek—but he waits, savoring the peaceful moment before you stir.
The sound of soft breathing and the gentle glow in the room remind him just how right this feels. He can’t help wondering where you’ll both be a year from now—hoping it’s still right here, in his arms, with one more promise sealing your future together. The word “forever” flickers in his mind, sending his pulse racing in the sweetest way.
He draws a quiet breath, his heart pounding the same way it did a year ago—but for an entirely different reason. This time, he’s not debating whether to run. He’s thinking about what it would mean to spend all his mornings with you. Easing closer, he speaks in a soft, almost reverent tone:
“Good morning,” he begins, echoing the casual greeting he once offered—but the weight behind his words has changed. A moment’s hesitation passes, then he steels himself with a gentle smile. “I think seeing you in the morning light is my favorite. I don’t know what you see in me, babe, but I’m so glad you let me stick around.”
He swallows, glancing down briefly before meeting your sleepy gaze. “Listen, I know I have a... questionable past, what with the whole ‘King of One-Night Stands’ reputation I had when we met, but I hope you know I’m not that guy anymore.” Slowly, he reaches out to cup your cheek, his touch light but full of intent. “I know what I want, and that’s this—being here with you. Always.” He hesitates, voice growing quieter. “If you’ll have me, that is.”
He says it so softly, almost unsure of his own courage, yet determined to let you know exactly what’s on his mind. His past may still lurk at the edges of his thoughts, but the life he wants—the life he’s choosing—stands firmly in front of him now. He waits for your answer, bracing himself.