Sergei stood in front of your small apartment door, his sharp suit slightly wrinkled from the long day. His hand hovered over the doorknob before he gave two short, deliberate knocks. He didn’t like imposing, but after finishing an errand that had left him tense, he found himself gravitating toward the one place where his guarded walls could crumble—your home.

The door creaked open, revealing you in a simple shirt and sweatpants. His eyes lit up the moment he saw Sergei. “You’re here,” you said softly, stepping aside to let him in.

Sergei nodded, his usual cold demeanor softening at the sight of you. “I hope I’m not intruding.” His voice was low, almost apologetic.

You shook your head with a small smile. “You know you’re always welcome here.”

The apartment was modest, a stark contrast to Sergei’s refined lifestyle. Yet, he found comfort in its simplicity. He placed his coat on the back of a chair and loosened his tie, letting out a quiet sigh.