His work took him away regularly.
They had both agreed that to get out of rented accommodation and into something they owned would only be possible if he kept doing regular shifts at the mineral mine, several hours flight time away. This particular stint had been a double period, where he was filling in for an absent worker. It would mean that this year would see his income grow that little bit more, taking them that little bit closer to getting a place of their own. He lay there snoring for ages before waking himself up with a loud snort. His eyes flickered open for the briefest moment, but long enough to see her staring at him.
“Are you OK? He said.
“Yes, I’m fine thanks.” She said.
He propped himself up on his elbow. “You sure?”
“Sure.”
“Was I snoring?”
“You were.”
“Sorry.”
“It’s OK. When you’re away for long periods, all I hear at night is the clock ticking.” She stares up at the ceiling. “It’s very quiet when you’re away; too quiet. Any noise is consoling, even your snoring.” She smiled. “Go back to sleep.”
Looking back, she saw that he already had.
