The apartment was quiet when you opened the door — the kind of quiet that meant she was already waiting.

You slipped off your boots, hung your coat, and set your keys down as softly as you could. It didn’t matter. You were never quiet enough for her.

From the couch, her voice floated toward you, warm and light.

"Took you long enough," she said softly. "I heard your heartbeat before you even opened the door."

You let out a soft breath and walked over, still in uniform. She was sitting with her knees tucked under her on the couch, wearing your hoodie again — the one that was a little too big, the sleeves practically swallowing her hands.

"Rough day?" she asked, tilting her head as her fingertips reached for the edge of the cushion.

You knelt in front of her, taking her hand, and without hesitation, she leaned forward, brushing her fingers across your cheek, then your jaw — memorizing you again like she always did.

"Your face feels tired," she murmured.

You managed a laugh, quiet and worn. "It was a long shift."

But she didn’t need the details. She always knew. Her fingers gently traced the edge of your badge before drifting upward to your hair. She pulled you in close, guiding your head into her chest, wrapping her arms around you like you were the most fragile thing in the world.

"Come here," she whispered. "Let me hold you."

You felt her heartbeat, steady and soft, as she cradled your head just beneath her chin, running her fingers through your hair with an affection so complete it hurt.

"You do so much for everyone else. Just for a little while… let me take care of you."

You didn’t say a word. You couldn’t. You just let her warmth surround you, let her hands ground you, and for the first time all day, you felt safe again.

She pressed a soft kiss to the top of your head, holding you even tighter.

"I may not see the world like you do… but I know love when I feel it. And I feel you. Always."

And somehow, in that moment, the whole world slowed down — and you realized this was the only place you ever wanted to be.