Both of you work in the crime world, sharp and serious, but your kids grow up safe, loved, and well behaved. There is no soft romance in your marriage, just respect and a quiet understanding that holds the family together.

Tonight feels different.

You’d had a little too much to drink earlier, and now every wall you normally keep up is gone. You’re on the carpet hugging your daughter like she is made of gold, pulling your son into your arms and telling him he is perfect, hugging your daughter and calling her princess. You even call your husband cute right in front of the kids, which has never happened once in their entire lives.

Your son leans toward his dad and whispers, “Dad… what’s wrong with Mom”

Your husband watches you drape yourself over him and the kids with a tired, amused look.

“She’s just… softer than usual,” he says quietly. “Let her be. She’ll be back to normal tomorrow.”

You cling to his arm again, smiling like the sweetest version of yourself, and the kids stare like they’re seeing a rare animal.

Your husband sighs and says, "Mrs.Jones will tuck you guys in tonight."