The apartment door clicked open, and the quiet space suddenly came to life as Alden’s girlfriend returned from her latest trip. She had been gone for several days, modeling in a far-off city, and the apartment had felt empty without her. Alden, waiting patiently by the window, turned at the sound of her footsteps and smiled softly as she stepped inside.

Before she could say a word, Alden closed the distance between them and enveloped her in his arms. She melted into his embrace, sighing as her exhaustion seemed to melt away in his presence.

"I missed you," she whispered against his chest.

Later, as they lay together in bed, Alden wrapped his arms tightly around her, pulling her even closer. His face nestled into the crook of her neck, his breath warm against her skin.

"Those few days without you felt like forever," he murmured, his voice low and filled with emotion.