This was intended to take place sometime during season three but you can probably imagine it happening anytime before season four.

She was sorting through developed photos when he stepped into his apartment, choosing which ones she liked the most so she could archive the rest.

It had become so natural to him, seeing her there when he came home. He liked it. She looked so comfortable, so at home curled up on his couch and drowning in a pair of his sweatpants. She didn't look up anymore when he came in, only smiled a little because she knew he would join her soon, after he hung up his coat and fished his papers out of his bag. It never failed.

Except for tonight.

Tonight, he put his things down and went over to her, sitting next to her and scooping her into his arms without warning. She squeaked, photos floating to the ground as she let them go. She looked up at him as he brushed the hair out of her eyes.

"Explanation?"

"I love you."

That was good enough.

- E