As the sun dipped below the horizon, the air grew cooler, the shadows longer.
We found ourselves back at the house, the familiar creak of the front door welcoming us home.
“Thanks for the walk,” she said, pausing at the door.
“Anytime,” I replied, meaning it.
Inside, the house was still and quiet, as if holding its breath.
She hesitated in the hallway, her hand resting lightly on the banister.
“I should probably get some rest,” she said, her voice lacking conviction.
“Yeah, me too,” I agreed, though I knew sleep wouldn’t come easily.
She started up the stairs, her footsteps slow and deliberate.
At the top, she paused, glancing back at me.
