Nicholas returned home late, the weight of his recent business dealings still lingering in his mind. The mansion was quiet, the staff having retired for the night. His polished shoes clicked softly against the marble floor as he made his way toward the living room, where a faint light spilled out into the hallway. He frowned slightly, curious as to why someone was still awake at this hour.
Ella was curled up on the couch, her head resting against the armrest. She wasn't asleep, but she looked close to it, her eyes half-lidded as she stared blankly at the television, which played a muted late-night show. She seemed startled when she noticed him, sitting up abruptly and clutching the throw blanket tighter around her.
"You're back," she said softly, her voice hoarse from lingering exhaustion.
Nicholas raised an eyebrow as he set his keys down on the coffee table. "It's late, why are you still up? Waiting for me?"
