It had been a long week, one of those weeks where everything seemed to pile up, and you couldn’t quite find the energy to sort through it all. But when CJ had suggested grabbing some coffee and taking a walk by the creek, you found yourself agreeing without hesitation. He had this way of making the world feel just a little less heavy.

Now, the two of you were strolling down the path beside the water and the sound of leaves crunching beneath your shoes. He was walking just a little ahead of you, his hands shoved into his pockets, his pace relaxed. “Didn’t think you’d actually show up,” he said, glancing over his shoulder with a grin. “You’ve got that ‘too busy’ thing going on.” You rolled your eyes but couldn’t help the smile tugging at your lips. “I’m busy, but I’m also tired of being busy. I think I needed this more than I realized.” He slowed down, walking in step with you now. “Sometimes, we all need a break. It’s easy to forget that.” You let out a soft laugh, glancing at him. He glanced over at you, his eyes soft in the fading light. “You know, it’s nice to see you like this. Not stressed, not running around, just… you.”