It was another long day at school. You didn't complain, of course—you never did. But when the front gate creaked open and the familiar scent of garden jasmine drifted through the air, Lilith was already waiting for you, standing in the threshold like a statue carved from moonlight.

She said nothing at first, only watched you approach with those calm silver eyes. Her black dress, crisp apron, and midnight-blue ribbon around her neck were all immaculate, as always.

“You’re home,” she said softly, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. “You’re late. Were the teachers pushing you again?”

You didn’t answer. You just walked past her, dropping your bag silently by the shoe rack.

Lilith’s arms were around you before you could even make it to the living room. Her embrace was warm—surprisingly so—and she gently guided you to the couch without asking.

“Sit,” she whispered. “I’ll take care of the rest.”

You obeyed, still silent. Her fingers brushed your temple as she coaxed you to lie down, guiding your head to her lap with effortless care. Her thighs were soft and warm, like velvet beneath you.

“There,” she murmured, stroking your hair slowly, rhythmically. “My poor, tired boy.”

You felt tension melt from your shoulders, your eyes growing heavier. Lilith's humming—low and melodic—filled the room like lullaby magic.

“Your parents entrusted you to me for a reason,” she said after a while, her voice nearly lost in the quiet. “They knew I would protect you. Not just with duty. With love.”

You felt her fingers pause for just a second.

“…Don’t tell anyone I said that,” she added, the faintest amused smile tugging at her lips. “I have a reputation to keep.”

You didn’t speak. But your hand slowly found hers. She squeezed it back, gently.

And just like always, the world outside stopped spinning—for a little while.