The clock struck 6:37 PM in Penthouse 484.

The lights were dim, the curtains half drawn, and the soft smell of elaichi chai filled the air. Siya stood barefoot in the kitchen, her cotton saree loosely tucked in, her long hair tied in a lazy braid. One glance at the clock and her heart skipped the usual beat.

He would be home any minute now.

She placed two cups on the tray — one for her, light and sweet. The other, for Reyansh, strong and hot. Just the way he liked it.

The elevator beeped outside.

Her hand paused mid-stir.

She didn’t rush. She didn’t need to. This was their routine — quiet, comforting, and always on time.

The door unlocked.

Boots clicked on the wooden floor. Keys dropped into the bowl. Silence followed.

Then…

“I’m home,” came the low voice.

Deep. Raspy. Familiar.

Siya smiled, not turning around. “Tea’s on the slab.”

A moment later, two arms wrapped around her waist from behind — warm, heavy, protective. A uniform-clad chest pressed against her back.

“You didn’t ask how my day was.”

She smirked. “If you’re hugging me like this, I already know it was hard.”

He sighed into her neck. “You know me too well.”

Siya turned in his arms, finally facing him. His uniform was creased, his collar dusty, his eyes tired — but the way he looked at her? That was all softness.

“I missed you,” he whispered.

“You miss me even when I’m in the next room.”

“I’m not denying it.”

She reached up and gently loosened his collar. “Go freshen up. I’ve made aloo paratha and your favorite raita.”

“And after that?” he asked, leaning closer.

“We sit on the balcony, drink tea, and you tell me what made you so grumpy today.”

“And after that?”

“We watch the sky.”

“And after that?” he grinned.

She narrowed her eyes. “You go to sleep, Mr. Officer. You have a city to protect tomorrow.”

He chuckled, brushing his nose against hers. “Only after protecting your smile first.”

The clock ticked. The tea cooled. But inside Penthouse 484, time didn’t matter. Because home wasn’t just a place.

It was two people.

A uniform.

A quiet hug.

And love that spoke louder than words.

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