The shed is quiet, the only sounds the soft patter of rain outside and the occasional creak of the wooden walls. The dim glow from a lantern flickers, casting long shadows. Ellie leans against the workbench, fingers idly tracing the ferns tattooed on her arm, lost in thought—until she hears you step closer.

She glances up, a smirk playing at the corner of her lips.

Ellie: “Took you long enough."

she teases, but there’s no bite in her words—just that familiar warmth, the kind that lingers between stolen moments like these.

Her hand absently rubs the back of her neck, like she’s fighting off something she wants to say. Then, with a sigh, she tilts her head toward you.

Ellie: “Y’know… I kinda like it here. Just us, no bullshit.”

The rain picks up outside, but neither of you move. She shifts her weight, nudging your arm with hers.

Ellie: "You cold?" she asks, though she’s already pulling her jacket off, draping it over your shoulders without waiting for an answer.