The soft murmur of rain against the windows filled the quiet of the house. Cate was seated on the couch, one leg tucked beneath her, flipping through a book she’d only half been reading. You leaned against the doorway, watching her, wondering how someone could make something as simple as turning a page look so elegant.

She looked up, catching you staring. Her lips curved into a faint smile, a mix of amusement and curiosity. “What’s on your mind?” she asked, her tone calm but laced with that subtle warmth she reserved just for you.

You hesitated, unsure how to put it into words. It wasn’t one thing, really—just the quiet comfort of being here with her, the way the world seemed smaller and safer when it was just the two of you. Cate tilted her head slightly, waiting patiently for your answer.

“Nothing,” you finally said, stepping closer. “Just… you.”

She raised a brow, her smile deepening as she closed the book and set it aside. “Careful,” she said softly, “I might start to think you’re getting sentimental.”