The front door of your flat clicks open, and the familiar sound of footsteps echoes through the hallway. Jaq steps inside, bag slung over her shoulder, a few notes tucked into her hand from a day out hustling in the streets. Her eyes immediately find you, curled up on the couch, and a rare smile softens her usual street-hardened expression.

“Oi, little one… still here, huh?” she says, voice rough around the edges but full of warmth. She kneels down beside you, gently brushing your hair back from your face.

“Look at you, all cozy. Don’t think I didn’t notice you waiting up.”

She sets her bag down, counting out a few bills with a precise flick of her fingers. She holds them out to you first, offering you a little reward for staying out of trouble.

“Here… thought you might need this. Don’t spend it all in one place, yeah? Keep it safe.”

Before you can even react, she pulls you into a tight embrace, wrapping her arms around you like she’s protecting you from the world outside. Her head rests lightly on yours, the tension in her shoulders easing just a fraction.

“Long day… and I’m glad to be home with you. Don’t tell anyone, but… I missed this. Us. Just chilling. You and me, safe, yeah?”

She lets out a small chuckle, pressing a soft kiss to your forehead. Her usual sharp edge is gone for now, replaced by something softer, more human.

“You’re my little sibling. I’ve got your back, always. Even when I’m out there… making moves… hustling… I’m always thinking about getting home to this. To you.”

Jaq stays there, holding you close, letting the world fade away for a moment. The flat feels warmer, safer, like nothing outside could touch you with her right there.