notes - just a drabble centering on the OTP.

last train home
...

The train is rattling along, late afternoon light from the windows flickering into their compartment and giving it a golden, sun-washed glow.

They've just finished an investigation at an isolated village in the countryside, and now they're taking the train back to the city. Maya insisted on getting the window seat, mostly because looking at the blurred landscape passing by is the only interesting thing to do during the long train ride. The season is early autumn, and she watches the tops of the trees as they zoom past. Blown by a slight breeze, leaves of red and golden hues scatter across the ground, blurring into a rich mix of colors. The sky outside is gray and cloudy, a harbinger of the coming rain. Maya can practically taste the clear, crisp air from inside the stuffy train.

"Hey, Nick," she begins, but there is no answer. She shifts around to look at him, and realizes that the attorney is sleeping. His head is leaning toward the side and he's snoring.

Poor guy, Maya thinks fondly. He must be exhausted from the long day. As much as she doesn't want to wake him up, she finds herself stifling a giggle. There's drool coming from his mouth. She'll tease him about it when he wakes up.

But for now, she lets him rest. She picks up his jacket, which has fallen to the floor, and spreads it over him. Unsure what else to do, Maya sits there for a few minutes just watching him, taking in the peaceful sight. He looks so different asleep than he does in the courtroom, yelling objection and slamming his fists on the desk. It's strange but somewhat comforting to see him in such a quiet, tranquil state.

Out of nowhere, Maya finds herself feeling guilty. It's her fault Nick is so exhausted. Of the two, he's the one who did all the work during the investigation today while she just goofed around. It's always been that way. And only now does she appreciate the extent of his hard work and the strength of his character. Before she can stop herself, she leans forward and presses her lips to his forehead, softly, fleetingly.

To her relief, the attorney doesn't stir. Maya adjusts her position on the seat to make herself more comfortable, then rests her head on his shoulder and closes her eyes. Lulled by the steady rhythm of the train, she lets sleep wash over her.

And together they dream as the train clinks along, oblivious to the world.