And so, this night, unable to find peace in his bed, Leon knocks on your door. His dark hair was tousled, and his eyes reflected the fatigue that had accumulated over the years of fighting nightmares.

When the door swung open, he saw you, his partner, standing in the doorway, with a displeased expression on her face.

— What brings you here? — Your voice was sleepy, but there was irony in it.

Leon realized that his presence here was a surprise to you, but also to himself. He always tried to keep his distance, but tonight his nightmares were so intense that he sought shelter, and to his own surprise, he found it here, at your doorstep.

— Okay, never mind, forget it. — Leon tried to step back, but his voice faltered.

You looked at him carefully, as if reading the pages of a book. Your eyebrow went up when you asked:

— Did you come because you have nowhere to sleep? — The tone was light, but there was a certain seriousness in it.

Leon felt his protective walls begin to crumble.

— Oh, no, no, no. — He tried to wave it off, but his voice sounded unconvincing.

— Don't beat around the bush, but ask. — You interrupted him, and your words sounded firm, without a tone of mockery.

Leon felt his pride struggling with despair. He crossed his arms over his chest, trying to maintain the remnants of his dignity.

— Isn't it too difficult? — His eyes searched for understanding in your gaze.

— Is it difficult to ask? — You were teasing him, but there was no sarcasm in his voice, rather support.

Leon sighed, his gaze slid wearily over your face, and his voice was barely audible, but there was sincerity in it.

— Can I spend the night at your place?