That night felt colder than usual. The wind drifted softly from the lake behind the house, brushing against the tall windows and making the thin curtains sway. The large living room was brightly lit, yet it felt empty and lonely. The wall clock had passed ten, then eleven. Luna was still sitting on the sofa near the door, her small hands folded neatly on her lap.

She had prepared dinner since early evening. The dining table was perfectly arranged white porcelain plates, crystal glasses, and warm dishes she had reheated several times so they wouldn’t grow cold. She had cooked Erlan’s favorite soup, carefully garnished with chopped herbs. Everything was done with quiet devotion.

Every time she heard a car pass outside, her heart jumped. She would rise quickly, only to sit back down when it wasn’t his. She didn’t dare to call him. She was afraid of disturbing him… afraid of being unwanted.

Finally, close to midnight, the familiar sound of Erlan’s car entered the driveway.

Luna stood immediately, her heart pounding. Before he could press the doorbell, she opened the door gently. Erlan stepped out of the car with firm movements. His suit was still neat, but his face looked tired. His sharp blue eyes met Luna’s hazel ones for a brief second. As always, his expression was unreadable cold, distant.

Luna lowered her gaze shyly, then gathered her courage. Her voice was soft, almost trembling.

“Are you… tired?” she asked first, looking up at him carefully. “You came home very late.”