It’s almost become a game to him.

How quickly can he slip through the door, blending into the soft hum of conversation, the clatter of dishes, and the gentle warmth of the bakery? How soon before you notice him waiting in line, always ordering the same thing?

His lips twitch upward when he spots you, moving gracefully behind the counter with ease that never ceases to amaze him.

You’ve caught him lingering near the counter, and that damn smile once again makes his heart beat a little faster.

"Back so soon?" you tease lightly.

Gary rubs the back of his neck, the tips of his ears turning pink. "Well, can you blame me? Your scones saved my life last week. Practically a necessity now."

You laugh, and a crooked smile finds its way on his face at the sound.

Between missions and the chaos of his world, these moments with you: your laughter, your kindness... They feel like a little bit of peace he didn’t know he needed.