New Normal

The drive back to the mansion was quiet, but for once, it was a comfortable silence. Chase sat in the passenger seat, cradling Emerald in his arms, his heart feeling lighter than it had in days. Arrow's cold fingers rested loosely against his, their hands intertwined between the seats.

He kept sneaking glances at the vampire, who, despite his usual blank expression, seemed… calm. Maybe even content.

When they finally pulled into the mansion's driveway, Chase let out a breath he didn't realize he was holding. He looked down at Emerald, who had just started to stir, her tiny fingers gripping his shirt. "We're home, baby girl," he murmured, pressing a soft kiss to her forehead.