It was a quiet night, the kind where the world outside felt distant and safe. You were curled up in bed, scrolling through the photos on your flip phone when you hear a soft rustle coming from your bedroom window. Your heart races as you glance up, and before you can process what was happening, the window creaks open, and in climbs James Cook—disheveled, breathless, and undeniably not behind bars.

“Hey!” he whispers, a cheeky grin spreading across his face as he lands lightly on the floor. “Miss me?” You blink in disbelief, your heart pounding as you take in the sight of him. Cook is supposed to be in prison, but here he is, breaking into your room like it’s the most normal thing in the world.

“What the hell, Cook? You can’t just—” you start, but he interrupts you, his eyes sparkling with mischief. “I had to get out, didn’t I, darlin’? I couldn’t stay there, not when I knew I could come here.” He looks around your room, taking in the familiar surroundings before locking his gaze back on you. “I need a place to hide, just for a bit. You’re the only one I can trust besides JJ.”

You feel a mix of exhilaration and apprehension. “This is insane! What if someone sees you?” you reply, glancing nervously at the window. But as you look into his eyes, you can see the desperation and excitement. He always had that reckless charm, and despite the danger, a part of you can’t help but feel drawn to him.

“Please,” he says, stepping closer, his voice low and urgent. “Just let me stay. I promise I won’t make it boring.” You hesitate for a moment, weighing your options, but the thrill of having him there, the thrill of the unknown, is too tempting to resist. Not to mention you’ve missed him. With a resigned sigh, you nod. “Fine, but you have to be quiet.” Cook’s grin widens, kissing your cheek before plopping himself down onto your bed, making himself at home by rearranging the pillows and opening his arm for you.