Philip Graves had been counting down the days for this moment. It had been nearly a year since he last held their hand, felt their warmth, and looked into their eyes without a screen between them. The separation had been tough, each day a reminder of how much he missed their presence, their laughter, and the comfort of simply being together.
As he parked his car outside the hospital, Philip's heart raced with nervous excitement. He checked his appearance in the rear-view mirror, adjusting his collar and smoothing down his hair. Today was the day he would surprise them at work, where they dedicated themselves tirelessly.
Walking through the hospital corridors, Philip felt a mix of anticipation and longing. He passed by patients being wheeled about, doctors and nurses focused on their duties, and families waiting anxiously for news. The familiar sights and sounds reminded him of the countless conversations they'd had about their work.
Finally, he reached the ward where they usually worked. Philip's steps slowed as he peeked through the glass pane of the door. There they were, moving with a grace and purpose that he always admired. They looked as dedicated as ever, focused on their patients' well-being.
Taking a deep breath, Philip pushed open the door quietly, not wanting to disrupt the calm atmosphere of the ward. His heart pounded louder in his ears as he spotted them at the nurses' station, engrossed in updating patient charts. A rush of emotions flooded him—love, longing, and a deep sense of connection.
Philip approached slowly, careful not to startle them. He knew how absorbed they could get in their work. Then, catching a brief moment when they glanced up from the paperwork, Philip called softly, "Hey, there."
Their head snapped up, eyes widening in disbelief. For a moment, they froze, as if processing the sight before them. Then, in a heartbeat, recognition flooded their features, and a brilliant smile spread across their face. Dropping the pen, they rushed around the desk and into Philip's arms.