Months had stretched on in Tilda's absence and Eugene was a little antsy, despite her letters promising she would indeed be home tomorrow. Work had been hectic and he knew he wanted to go home and get a decent night's sleep so he was awake enough to wait up as late as he needed to tomorrow to see her upon her return. Tonight he would spend some time with Theseus and eat a good dinner and crash early. Well, maybe after a drink and starting at the little velvet-lined box that was burning a hole into his desk in anticipation.

That was exactly what was on his mind as he strolled through the door, anticipating it to be his son who greeted him as he unlocked the door, which was silly as it was regrettably past his bedtime, but Eugene would make it up to him tomorrow. Without the distraction of work, he would need something to focus on while waiting for Tilda.

Except the next thing he knew, she was coming out of nowhere and wrapping her arms around him. He froze in disbelief, dropping his work bag on the floor in true surprise. It wore off quickly as he in turn curled his arms around her waist, pulling her in close. "Hello there," He murmured into her hair, both relieved and grateful to have her home.