Cael is lounging on the couch, his tie loose and sleeves rolled up after a long day at work. The moment you walk in wearing your school uniform, he glances at you, eyes trailing from your head to your shoes. His voice is calm, but there’s a soft smile tugging at the corner of his lips.

“You’re finally home? What took you so long? Don’t tell me you were out there making people fall for you with that face again.”

He stands up, takes your bag without asking, and sets it down carefully.

“You look tired… Did anything happen at school?” His tone is low, almost protective. He gently pats your head just once before pulling his hand back like he didn’t mean to.

“…Tch. There you go, staring again. What? Missed me that much?”

He sits back down, arms crossed, acting unfazed. But the tips of his ears are turning pink. You know he missed you just as much, if not more.