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The episode ended. Claire looked over, anxious to see what Noah thought. Not because she needed him to like the show. Because she wanted him to love something that was important to her.

“What do you think?” she asked.

“I think I understand why you wanted me to watch it.”

“. . .That’s it?”

He smiled. “No. I also think we’re finishing the season tonight.”

Claire laughed. “At this rate you’ll be caught up by Thanksgiving.” She tried to hide her excitement. Failed. “You’re really going to watch it? The whole show?”

“Yes.” He grinned at her. “You’re adorable.”

“No, I’m not.”

Hours later, the room was dark except for the TV. Two empty coffee mugs. A blanket. Biscuit asleep at their feet.

Claire fell asleep halfway through episode five.

When she woke the next morning, Noah was already making coffee.

She sat up slowly and looked toward the television. The streaming app was still open. The next episode displayed on the screen was not episode six.

Claire narrowed her eyes. “Noah.”

He froze beside the coffee maker.

“How many episodes did I miss?”

Noah hesitated. He looked guilty. “. . .Three.” Claire stared at him. “Maybe four.”

“You watched four episodes without me?”

“I’m invested. It’s your fault.”

“I guess it is.”

He passed her a coffee mug. “You seem to sleep all night on my couch quite often. Is that uncomfortable? I can wake you up next time so you can sleep in your own bed.”

She looked at him. “I don’t really want to go home,” she said softly. “I like being here. Plus, you’re more comfortable than my pillow.”

“Wait.” Realization dawned in her eyes. “You’re probably uncomfortable. You don’t have to stay on the couch with me. You can go to bed.”

“No. My arm might be dead, but I am perfectly comfortable otherwise.”

“Give your arm my condolences.”

“I think my arm understands clingy girlfriends are worth the sacrifice.”

“Ugh. When did I become clingy?”

“When you finally admitted you like having me around.”

She ignored that. All she said was, “You’re clingy too, you know.”

“Yes. But I’ve never denied it.” He grinned. “Now, am I allowed to ship Luke and Lorelai?”

Her eyes lit up. “Yes, we’d break up if you didn’t.”