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Chapter 77 - Chapter 77 — That Evening

The streets of Maple Hollow had grown still, the soft glow of streetlights casting warm reflections on the scattered leaves. Inside Hannah's apartment, the golden lamplight filled the room, mingling with the faint scent of tea and vanilla. The calm of the evening seemed to wrap around everything, a quiet pause between the days.

Emma was curled up on the couch, blanket draped over her shoulders, sketchbook set aside. Her eyes followed Hannah as she moved about, tidying up, humming softly — her presence alone making the apartment feel alive and comforting.

"You make even quiet evenings feel special," Emma said, her voice low and warm.

Hannah smiled, sitting beside her. Their shoulders brushed, fingers finding each other naturally. "It's easier when the person next to me makes everything feel… right," she murmured.

Emma leaned her head lightly against Hannah's shoulder. "It's the little things, isn't it? The laughter, the quiet talks… the simple moments we share."

Hannah's thumb brushed softly over Emma's hand. "Exactly. Those little things are what make all the days worth it."

They stayed close, letting the hum of the night and the soft glow of the lamps fill the spaces between them. The intimacy was quiet but steady — a warmth that needed no words, just time, closeness, and understanding.

When Emma finally stood to leave, they lingered at the door, hands still entwined. "See you tomorrow?" Hannah asked softly.

"Always," Emma replied, giving a gentle squeeze. "Every day with you is worth it."

Hannah watched her step into the night, the calm of the apartment wrapping around her like a soft promise — that even the quietest evenings could feel extraordinary when shared together.

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