I was planning on doing a longer chapter, but I still haven't finished it. It's also going to be angsty and focus on Gillian's feelings. I have some time now, but I am still busy with exams, so I decided to come back with this more romantic chapter and post the other one later next week.
Cal sat in his office, mindlessly fiddling a glass of whisky in his hands. He craved a sweet escape from the noisy world, being on pins and needles after a long, exhausting case that seemed to be never-ending. While he was lost in his thoughts, he didn't notice how Gillian entered the room until she stood right in front of him.
"Hey," she said gingerly, reaching out to brush his hair back from his forehead.
Cal looked up at her, surprised, but a small smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. She had a way of knowing exactly what he needed, even before he did. He put his glass down on the coffee table.
"Aye."
Gillian settled on the arm of the chair and leaned over to press a gentle kiss to the top of his head. Cal closed his eyes and let out a contented sigh, hugging her by her waist and pulling her closer to him. He didn't know what he'd do without her. There's been an unfathomable understanding between them since their first meeting. It went beyond words or microexpressions known to mankind. And although he could by no means truly comprehend why she decided to stick through all of his shenanigans, he vowed to not ever take it for granted.
"I love you," he murmured, opening his eyes to look up at her.
Gillian smiled down at him. "I love you too."
They sat there in a comfortable silence for a while, just enjoying each other's company. Cal's mind drifted back to a time when things were strained between them. He had no one to blame other than himself. Admitting his feelings for her turned out to be both daunting and tranquillizing. If he knew the outcome in advance, he'd have done it years ago. He shook his head, trying to banish the memories.
"I don't know where I'd be now if it weren't for you, Gillian," he said suddenly, breaking the silence.
Gillian's brow furrowed. "Why are you saying that?"
Cal took a deep breath. "I mean it. You're everything to me. You keep me grounded, you keep me sane. I don't know how I'd survive without you."
Gillian's expression softened. "You don't have to survive without me, Cal. I'm not going anywhere."
Cal nodded, his eyes fixed on hers. "I know. It's just...sometimes I worry. I don't want anything to happen to you. I couldn't bear it."
Gillian reached out to cup his cheek, her thumb tracing circles over his skin. "I promise to do everything I can to always be here with you. Let's not focus on the most terrifying scenarios, shall we?"
Cal's heart swelled with love for her. He leaned in to press a soft kiss to her lips, feeling a rush of gratitude for this incredible woman who had chosen to love him despite all his flaws.
As they pulled away from each other, Gillian's hand brushed over the bandage on Cal's shoulder, a reminder of the danger they faced every day.
"I feel lucky to be here," she whispered, leaning in to kiss him again.
Cal closed his eyes, savoring the feel of her lips on his. He knew he would do anything to protect her and keep her safe. And he would never stop thanking whatever forces had brought them together.