Angela Lopez stood in the dimly lit kitchen, the only light coming from the warm glow of the stovetop. She moved quietly, careful not to wake Jackson, who was sleeping down the hall. Wesley had been working late again, and Angela could hear the familiar sound of his keys jingling as the front door opened and closed softly.

She looked up just as Wesley stepped into the kitchen, his tired eyes brightening the moment they landed on her. He smiled, a soft, worn-out smile that spoke of relief and comfort. Angela walked over, her arms wrapping around his waist without hesitation, pulling him into a gentle hug. He melted into her touch, resting his forehead against hers as he let out a heavy sigh.

“Long day?” she asked quietly, already knowing the answer, but wanting to hear his voice. Wesley nodded, his arms circling her back, holding her close as if grounding himself in the warmth and familiarity of her presence.

Angela pulled back just enough to press a kiss to his cheek, her fingers brushing through his hair. “You’re home now,” she said softly, the words filled with reassurance. He smiled, a bit more genuinely this time, and pulled her back into a tight embrace, not ready to let go just yet.