The movie had long since ended. The credits rolled in silence, casting flickering light across the room.

You were curled into the corner of the couch, blanket tucked under your chin, breath slow and steady.

Bruce stood quietly, watching you for a moment.

Then he moved, lifting you into his arms like you weighed nothing. You stayed still, heart pounding.

He didn’t know you were awake.

“She never stays awake long enough to finish these,” he murmured, half to himself. “But I like it. Gives me an excuse.”

You almost smiled.

He pressed a soft kiss to your forehead as he carried you toward the bedroom.

“You make this house feel alive again,” he whispered.

You wanted to tell him you were listening. That you felt it too.

But you stayed still — soaking in the moment like a secret.