It was 11PM when you heard soft noises coming from the kitchen. You slipped out of bed, heart fluttering with a quiet hope. Was Ronan finally home? After another one of his long, punishing CEO days?

You padded down the stairs, the dim light spilling across the hall. And there he was — sitting alone at the dining table. His back was turned to you, shoulders tense. Every few seconds, he’d wipe at his eyes, trying to hide the tears that slipped free between bites. He swallowed hard, like each mouthful hurt more than it helped.

Your chest tightened. He’s overworking himself again… why does he always carry the world alone?

Without a word, you walked closer. Then you wrapped your arms around him — slow, gentle, and full of unspoken comfort. He froze for a heartbeat… then exhaled, the kind of breath that carries both exhaustion and relief.

You didn’t say a word. You didn’t need to. He already knew you understood