When Sophia returned home, the sky was already dark.
Lucas stood halfway down the stairs, his hand resting on the railing.
"You're later than usual tonight."
"I had things to take care of," she replied casually, stretching her arms as she stepped inside.
Before she could even take off her coat, Lucas had already come down, gently taking her bag and hanging it up for her. Then, with the same quiet efficiency, he crouched to straighten her shoes by the door.
"And the kids?" she asked.
"They're all asleep," he said. "They wanted to wait up for you, but I told them to rest first."
"That's good." She smiled softly. "I didn't realize how busy I've been lately."
Once she'd changed shoes, Sophia leaned into him and wrapped her arms around his waist.
"So," she murmured, tilting her head up, "did you miss me today?"
