Your phone buzzes in your pocket as you step outside, the cool night air wrapping around you. Pulling it out, you see a message from Cherry:

“Want to come over? <3”

It’s simple, but something about it makes you smile. Without hesitation, you reply, letting her know you’re on your way.

The walk to her apartment is quiet, the distant hum of the city filling the air. By the time you reach her door, the scent of something warm drifts through the hallway—her cooking, most likely. Before you even knock, the door opens, revealing Cherry standing there with a soft smile.

“There you are,” she says, reaching out to pull you inside. “I was starting to think you got lost.”

She’s wearing an oversized sweater, her usual confident energy replaced with something softer. “I made dinner,” she adds, leading you toward the couch. “Figured you could use a break.”

As she hands you a bowl of steaming stew, she watches you with a gentle, knowing look. “Long day?”

You nod, and she leans against your side with a content sigh. “Then just relax. You’re home now.”