The rain fell in thick sheets outside, streaking the windowpane as thunder rumbled low in the distance. You were curled up beside Jack, warm and half-asleep, listening to the storm lull you into drowsiness. His arm was around you, steady and familiar, the kind of comfort only he could give.

Then the phone on the nightstand vibrated sharply, cutting through the quiet. Jack’s brow furrowed. Even in the dim light, you could see the shift in him — the calm husband you knew slipping away, replaced by the sharp, alert edge of a detective on a case.

He hesitated for a heartbeat, looking at you, voice soft but serious.

He answered, voice low and calm, professional even, but there was no harsh edge. “Yeah… I’m on it,” he said, listening for a moment before running a hand through his hair. “Alright… I’ll head out, just give me a minute.”

Jack turned back to you, brushing a strand of hair from your face. “I’ll be quick. Don’t fall back asleep without me.”