The glow of the streetlamps outside painted Maple Hollow in soft shades of amber and gold, the streets quiet except for the occasional rustle of leaves in the evening breeze. Inside Hannah's apartment, the space felt warm and safe, a gentle contrast to the chill of the night.
Emma was curled up on the couch, blanket draped over her shoulders, sketchbook resting unused on her lap. Her eyes followed Hannah as she moved about the room, adjusting books, straightening cushions, and humming softly — her presence filling the apartment with a steady, comforting energy.
"You know," Emma said quietly, "I think evenings like this are my favorite. Calm, quiet… just us."
Hannah paused and smiled, settling beside her. Their shoulders brushed, and fingers intertwined naturally, carrying the quiet intimacy they had built over weeks of mornings, afternoons, and evenings together.
"It's easy to forget the world exists when it's just us," Hannah murmured. "Everything feels lighter, simpler, right."
Emma leaned in slightly, her head resting lightly against Hannah's shoulder. "Exactly. And it makes everything else fade away. Just for a little while."
They talked softly about the week, shared little laughs at inside jokes, and let the silence stretch between them comfortably. The glow of the lamps and the warmth of their connection filled the room, making it feel timeless, steady, and full.
When Emma finally rose to leave, they lingered at the door, hands still entwined. "See you tomorrow?" Hannah asked, voice soft.
"Every day," Emma replied, giving a gentle squeeze. "Every single day with you."
Hannah watched her step into the night, the quiet of the apartment wrapping around her like a warm blanket. Even ordinary evenings had become extraordinary, and the promise of many more lingered in the soft glow of the room.