The small apartment was dark but Elliot still watched. He watched over Olivia's restless, sleeping form. Not even a full day ago her mother had passed away. She came in to work late and finished her shift. Afterwards, she got so drunk she could barely stand without Elliot.
She got so drunk she almost cried. Almost. It scared Elliot to see Olivia not dealing with such heavy news. He knew all too well from the unresolved trauma and issues with his own father. The scars stay with you a long time.
His brow furrowed as Olivia moaned a little in her sleep. He stood silently and hesitated to adjust her covers. He jumped when she spoke.
"Elliot." He breathed in. "What are you still doing here?" He blinked, studying her face.
"I'm watching over you." He answered honestly, waiting for her to open her eyes. She didn't.
"I'm fine." She said like she always did. Exasperated. Unsure. He smiled a little, sitting back down in the chair.
"I'll stay a little longer." He said. Even if she didn't break down and cry or scream. Even if she was fine. He was gonna stay. Olivia must've been able to tell because she didn't speak again. Maybe, deep down, she was glad that no matter what she said he wouldn't leave.