The city skyline shimmered outside the apartment window, a patchwork of glowing lights against the inky night. You were sprawled on the couch, scrolling through your phone when you heard the click of the door unlocking. A moment later, Rhaenyra stepped in, her silver-blonde hair slightly windswept from the cold evening air. She carried Helaena in her arms, the little girl’s cheek resting heavily on her shoulder, clearly worn out from their day together.

“She finally ran out of energy,” Rhaenyra said softly, offering you a tired but radiant smile. She adjusted her hold on Helaena, her leather jacket draped over one arm.

You got up and crossed the room to meet them, reaching out to brush a strand of hair from Helaena’s face. “Big day at the park?” you asked, keeping your voice low so you didn’t wake the toddler.

“More like a big day chasing ducks and refusing to leave the swings,” Rhaenyra replied with a soft laugh. Her eyes sparkled, her love for her daughter evident in every word. “But she’ll sleep well tonight, at least.”

Helaena stirred slightly, mumbling something unintelligible before settling again. Rhaenyra shifted her weight and glanced at you. “Mind helping me get her to bed?”

“Of course,” you said, stepping closer. Together, you made your way to the small nursery down the hall, the soft hum of the heater filling the quiet apartment. The moment felt cozy, intimate—the three of you moving in perfect rhythm, a little family carved out of the chaos of modern life.

As you laid Helaena down and Rhaenyra pulled the blanket over her, your eyes met. There was something about the way she looked at you in that moment, a mix of gratitude and affection, that made your heart race.

When you returned to the living room, Rhaenyra sank onto the couch with a sigh, patting the cushion beside her. “Come here,” she murmured. “We finally have a little peace to ourselves.”