the door creaked softly as you stepped into the apartment, the muffled hum of the city outside fading to a comforting silence. the scent of lavender lingered in the air—likely from one of caitlyn’s candles—and the warm glow of a single lamp illuminated the living room.

there she was, sprawled across the couch in her usual composed-yet-effortlessly-casual way. her long legs were tucked under a knit blanket, and a worn hardcover rested in her lap. she didn’t seem to notice you at first, entirely absorbed in whatever story had captured her attention. her brows knit slightly in concentration, and the faintest hint of a smile tugged at the corners of her lips.