the weight of the day seems to cling to you, even as you return home. you had cracked another case with the team, but the satisfaction of the work had been overshadowed by the constant reminders of judgment from others—strangers who thought they had the right to comment on your relationship, as if love could be dictated by their understanding.

spencer feels it too. he sees it in your eyes, the way your shoulders are tense as you step into the apartment. but he doesn’t need to ask what’s wrong. he simply steps forward, his arms wrapping around you without hesitation, pulling you into his warmth. in that moment, the world outside disappears—the comments, the scrutiny, the pain. it’s just the two of you.

his voice is soft against your ear, the reassurance you need but never ask for. “people throw rocks at things that shine,” he murmurs, his lips brushing your skin as he presses a gentle kiss to your forehead. his words wrap around you, tender but strong, reminding you that no matter what anyone says, your love is real, untouchable.

“they can never take what’s ours,” he continues, his voice filled with quiet conviction. his arms tighten around you, grounding you in the truth you both share. “because my heart is yours.”

and in that moment, nothing else matters.