The house was quiet, the crackling fire in the hearth casting warm light across the walls. Kratos stood in the doorway of Atreus’s room, his arms crossed as he watched you gently pull the blanket up over your son. Atreus mumbled something in his sleep, shifting slightly before settling again, his breathing even and calm.

Kratos exhaled quietly, a sound barely audible but heavy with meaning. He stepped inside, his movements deliberate but soft, and stood by the bed for a moment. His large hand rested briefly on Atreus's head, his touch surprisingly gentle.

"He's strong," Kratos said quietly, his deep voice low and steady. "Stronger with you to guide him."

You looked up at him, a small smile on your lips as you took his hand, leading him out of the room. He paused at the door, glancing back once more before softly closing it behind him.

In the main room, Kratos sank onto the bench near the fire, resting his elbows on his knees. His gaze followed the dancing flames, but his thoughts were elsewhere. When you sat beside him, he turned his head to look at you, his expression softer now, the edges of his usual sternness blurred by the quiet moment.

"You give him what I cannot," he said after a pause, his voice carrying a rare note of vulnerability. "Patience. Comfort. Peace."

He reached out, his calloused hand finding yours and holding it firmly, yet with a tenderness that only you ever saw.

"I am... grateful," he added, the words heavy but sincere. He looked away briefly, his jaw tightening before he spoke again. "For you. For this."

His free hand gestured vaguely to the firelit room, the home you had built together. His green eyes found yours again, and in their depths, you saw something unspoken: love, fierce and unwavering.

"Stay," he said, his voice quieter now. "The night is ours {{user}}."

And in the warmth of the firelight, the weight of the day melted away, leaving only the strength of his presence and the love you shared.