Strangers

Broadway

Joe stepped into Taylor's apartment, his heart skipping a beat at the sight of her. His usual cheerful greeting spilled forth, filling the room with warmth. Taylor's eyes lit up as she returned the hello, a flicker of excitement dancing in her gaze.

It had been a while since they had seen each other, and Joe couldn't help but feel a rush of anticipation at the prospect of spending time with her.

"Jenny's not home?" He inquired.

"No, she's at practice. She's got a big competition coming up plus school finals season is coming up, so she's running around like a squirrel."

"Michael's hardly ever home either. But I remember when I was that age, I wasn't interested in making small talk over dinner with my parents either."

"Well at least you had family dinners," Taylor hummed.

"You didn't?"

"Dad was always on the road making money and Mom preferred to spend time with her friends rather than her own daughter."

"They were shitty parents I guess "

"Yeah," Taylor stretched out. She didn't even know why she'd blurted out all that information to Joe from the doorstep, so she decided to change the subject as quickly as possible, "How are you?"

"I'm fine. Working and getting periodic reports from Shawn"

"What's on his mind? Any progress on the case?"

"If only," said Joe disappointedly, "the whole process is still as it was last month."

"Well, we'll see about that," Taylor stretched out, putting earrings in her ears.

"Are you up to something?" Joe asked

"Maybe"

"Won't you tell me?"

"I don't think what I'm up to is worth telling anyone yet. And if it works, you'll find out for yourself"

"All right," Joe said, but made a note in his head to ask Taylor later.

But at that time the man came up behind Taylor and tilted his head slightly to kiss her on the shoulder.

As Joe's lips met Taylor's shoulder, a sense of comfort and familiarity washed over her. She closed her eyes briefly, savoring the momentary respite from the fatigue that weighed her down. The touch of his hands around her waist pulled her closer, and she relaxed into his embrace.

Joe's concern for her well-being lingered in his voice as he whispered in her ear, "Are you sure you're okay? You look tired."

Taylor let out a small sigh, feeling a mixture of gratitude and weariness. She appreciated Joe's attentiveness and the genuine care he showed for her but she wasn't ready to open up about her problems yet

"Just not getting enough sleep," she replied, her voice tinged with a hint of resignation. "But I'll manage, Joe."

He studied her face, his eyes searching for any signs of deeper troubles. Joe knew Taylor well enough to sense when she was holding back. There was a desire within him to encourage her to open up, to share her burdens, but he also understood her need to handle things on her own terms.

"I'm here if you'll wanna talk" Joe said softly, his fingers gently brushing against her cheek

Taylor met his gaze, appreciating his unwavering support. She offered him a grateful smile, knowing that Joe's presence in her life was a rare and precious gift.

"I know," she whispered, her voice filled with warmth. "And I truly appreciate it, Joe."

Their tender moment was interrupted by the sound of a distant car passing by, bringing them back to reality.