Chapter 7: A Life Together

As they lay in bed, the warm sunlight streaming through the windows, Mario turned to Peach with a thoughtful expression. He ran his hand through his hair, his eyes searching for the right words. Peach noticed the change in his demeanor and raised an eyebrow, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "Hey, what's on your mind?" she asked, her voice soft and gentle. Mario took a deep breath, his heart racing with excitement. "Well, I was thinking... we've been together for a while now, and I've saved you from Bowser's clutches more times than I can count," he said, a hint of a smile on his face. Peach laughed, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "You're right, it's been a lot," she replied, her voice teasing. Mario's expression turned serious. "And after everything we've been through, I was wondering... could I live in the castle with you?" he asked, his voice filled with hope. Peach's eyes widened in surprise, and she sat up, her hair tumbling down her back. "You want to live in the castle?" she repeated, her voice hesitant. Mario nodded, his heart pounding in his chest. "I know it's a big step, but I feel like we've gotten to a point where we're serious about each other. And I love spending time with you, waking up next to you... I just thought it would be nice to have a place to call our own," he said, his eyes searching for her reaction. Peach's face was a picture of contemplation, her brow furrowed in thought. Mario's heart sank, wondering if he had asked too much, too soon. But then, a slow smile spread across her face, and she leaned in close. "I'd like that," she whispered, her voice barely audible. Mario's heart soared, and he pulled her into a tight hug. "Really?" he asked, his voice filled with excitement. Peach nodded, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Really," she replied, her voice firm. Mario pulled back, his eyes searching for hers. "But what about Bowser? He's always trying to kidnap you... I don't want to put you in harm's way," he said, his voice filled with concern. Peach's expression turned determined. "We'll figure it out," she said, her voice firm. "We'll make sure the castle is secure, and we'll face whatever challenges come our way together." Mario's heart swelled with emotion, and he pulled her into another hug. "I'd like that," he whispered, his voice filled with conviction. As they hugged, the warm sunlight streaming through the windows, Mario knew that he had found his home, not just in the castle, but in Peach's arms. And he was excited to see what the future held for them.