The clock on the wall ticked past nine when Travier finally stepped into their small house. The smell of garlic and simmering herbs wrapped around him like a soft blanket, but it only reminded him how late he was. He slipped off his shoes, loosening his tie with a sigh, trying to shake the tension that still clung to him from the set.
In the kitchen, Saphirra stood by the stove, her hair pulled into a messy knot, sleeves rolled up. She didn't turn right away when she heard him; instead, she stirred the pot with steady, practiced movements.
"You're late," she said, without accusation, her voice calm. She finally glanced over her shoulder, offering him the faintest smile. "Dinner's almost ready. How was your day? Did they finalize the contract?"
Travier froze for a heartbeat. The question was harmless—gentle even—but it felt like a trap set by fate itself. His tongue pressed against the roof of his mouth, fighting the urge to spill everything: that Vanessa, his soulmate, would be the female lead... that the director seemed to see their shared mark as some blessing, a gift for the screen.
But he could already imagine it—the sharp edge in Saphirra's tone, the flicker of hurt in her eyes, the storm of an argument that would leave them both raw. He couldn't do that to her tonight. Not after she waited up, not when her hands were still busy cooking for him.
"It was fine," he said finally, forcing his voice into something casual. "They confirmed most of it. I'll be playing the male lead, so... big responsibility." He pulled out a chair at the dining table and sat down, fiddling with his watch strap. "The director seems excited about it."
"That's good," Saphirra said softly. She carried two bowls to the table, setting them down with care. "You've been waiting for a chance like this. I'm proud of you."
The warmth in her words twisted something inside him. He managed a faint smile, but it felt fragile, like glass ready to shatter.
"I'm sorry I can't be there for you, but I promise to always support you," Saphirra said and smiled at him as softly as always, which made his heart shatter into pieces in both guilt and sadness.
"I-It's fine, but... I'm also glad that you're not there, because I saw the staff and they are working nonstop, always in a rush," Travier said and gave her a faint smile. He knew he was half lying. Yes, because the staff indeed have a lot on their plates, and no, because he doesn't want Saphirra to see how Vanessa tried to close their bond.
Saphirra chuckled and shook her head. "Come on, just having you as my model is already a lot for me to handle," Saphirra said jokingly, which made Travier chuckle.
His eyes never leaving hers, as if he was savoring the moment, the support and love in her eyes, that playful glint that was sparkling in her eyes. It was too much already for Travier; he didn't want those happy eyes to be replaced with brokenness and sadness. He doesn't want to see her hurt, but he swore to protect his love and will always show her his loyalty, no matter what happens.
As they sat down to eat, Saphirra talked about her day—small things, light things—while Travier nodded along, half-present. His chest carried a weight heavier than silence, the secret pressing hard against his ribs. Every time he looked at her, he wondered if she could see it in his eyes, if she sensed that something was missing in what he told her.
He tightened his grip on the spoon and forced himself to keep smiling. For tonight, the truth would stay locked in his chest.