The sun was setting by the time they returned to the penthouse.
Emma kicked off her shoes by the door. Nick hung his jacket on the hook — a small, domestic act that felt monumental. They had never done this before. Never come home together. Never existed in the same space without the title of boss and assistant between them.
"This is strange," Emma said, looking around.
"What is?"
"Being here. Without a reason. Without a schedule. Without you needing something from me."
Nick walked toward her. "I always need something from you."
Emma raised an eyebrow. "Like what?"
"Like you. Just you. That's all I've ever needed."
Emma's heart swelled. She crossed the room and sat on the couch. Nick sat beside her, close enough to touch.
They sat in silence for a while. The city darkened outside
