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The early morning sunlight filtered through the curtains of Drake Mallard's bedroom, casting warm stripes across the rumpled sheets. Drake stirred slowly, consciousness creeping in like the dawning day. The first thing he became aware of was the solid warmth of Launchpad beside him, his partner's breathing deep and steady.
Drake rolled over, a soft smile playing at his beak as he watched Launchpad sleep. The larger duck was sprawled out in his characteristic way, one arm flung above his head, his usual bomber jacket replaced by a worn t-shirt. There was something so endearing about seeing the normally energetic pilot in such a peaceful state.
"LP," Drake whispered, reaching out to trace his fingers along Launchpad's cheek. "Time to wake up."
Launchpad mumbled something incoherent, his beak curving into a drowsy smile even before his eyes opened. When they did, they were warm with affection. "Mornin' DW," he murmured, voice rough with sleep.
Drake leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss to the corner of Launchpad's bill. "Sleep well?" He asked, moving his kisses down the length of Launchpad's beak.
Instead of answering, Launchpad wrapped an arm around Drake's waist, pulling him closer. Their lips met in another kiss, this one slow and sweet. There was no urgency to it – no city to save, no villains to fight, just the quiet intimacy of the moment and the forever that seemed to stretch before them.
"Could get used to waking up like this," Launchpad murmured against Drake's beak between kisses. His hand moved in lazy circles against Drake's back as the shorte duck melted into the touch.
"Mmm," Drake agreed, nuzzling closer. "Though we should probably get up soon. Gosalyn will be awake —"
As if on cue, the sound of a hockey puck hitting something downstairs, followed by an "Oops!" echoed through the house.
Both ducks chuckled, sharing one more tender kiss before the responsibilities of the day called them away from their peaceful morning moment.
"Duty calls, LP," Drake sighed, though he couldn't keep the fondness from his voice.
"Right behind you, DW," Launchpad replied with a warm smile. "Always am."