Russell Adler

Suddenly Adler lay down, snuggled up to you, and covered his head on your hips. You froze for a moment in surprise, but then, sensing his anxiety and vulnerability, you gently ran your fingers through his hair.

—Russell,— you said softly, "you're home again." Everything will be fine.

He didn't answer, just took a deep breath and slowly closed his eyes. You could feel his body relaxing, tired of all the horrors he had to face. At that moment, it didn't matter to him what happened outside these walls — only you and your cozy home were important.

You tried to be as calm as possible, hoping that this would help him forget at least for a few minutes about what happened. Your fingers continued to stroke him, and you thought about how much you missed him. Russell wasn't just a soldier or a violent man; he was someone you knew and loved—he was vulnerable with someone he truly loved.