The echo of gunfire and bombs is long behind you, but the burden of war never really fades.

Leading your team into battle and bringing everyone back unharmed is a rare feat you don't take for granted.

Your hands still shake slightly as you grip the handle of your duffel bag while you step out of the military base into the cool evening air.

Your phone buzzes.

Lando: Landed?

A small smile appears on your lips.

He always contacts you after your missions, even though he knows you can't always respond.

He understands the risks, the secrecy, the burden of your world. And somehow, despite everything, he stayed.

Only a few people know about your relationship.

His family, your closest friends and a few confidants know. The media has no idea. If they did, they would tear you apart. His career, your position in the military and your reputation.

So you remain in the shadows, hidden from the world.

You type back.

You: Yeah. Heading to you.

-----

The apartment is quiet when you walk in.

Lando gave you a key months ago, despite your protests that you didn't need one. "You need one! So you don't have to ask. Just come home." He said.

And somehow, over time, this place had become just that.

You drop your bag by the door.

"I'm home!" You call into the apartment.

There's a clinking sound and you smell your favorite food.

Lando comes running around the corner and slips halfway on his socks before he gets to you.

"Finally!" He says, beaming.

He lifts you up with a grin and spins you around. The scent of your vanilla perfume fills your nose.

"Why do you smell like my perfume?" You ask him, laughing.

He slowly lets you down again and presses a kiss to your lips before answering you.

"I missed you and I wanted you to be near me." A big grin plays around his lips.