After the chaos of unpacking and setting up the new command center, Ruby guided Max into their new bedroom. The room was quiet, bathed in the soft glow of the moon hitting the courtyard outside. She helped him sit on the edge of the bed, her hands lingering on his shoulders.
"We're safe here," she murmured, lifting her eyes to his. "For now."
Max tightened his hold on her. "Careful, little bird," he said quietly. "You still haven't been punished for running off like that. What if something had happened to you?" His arm anchored her firmly against him, as if letting go wasn't an option.
"I had to do something," Ruby replied softly. "And Nancy helped me. Look at the bright side, I even made a friend." She kissed his cheek, trying to slip out of his arms, but Max only pulled her closer.
