Friday's loss against the Wasps had been a low blow for Thad, especially as they'd been up by two hundred thirty points before the other team's seeker had caught the snitch. He'd felt as though he'd let his team down, especially coming off last season's well-earned victory. Although he'd tried not to let the disappointment in himself bleed into his personal life, Thad knew he'd been in a bit of a mood over the weekend, and he felt a bit bad about that.

Even though he'd spent extra time in training since the game, he was making sure to be home at a decent time tonight, stopping on the way for something special for his girlfriend, who had been wonderfully patient and supportive as the season started up again. It was a quick stop in at Petals and Pretties for a vibrant, spring bouquet and another short detour to Victory Bar for takeaway, having messaged Dagny earlier to warn her he was handling dinner tonight.

Having showered in the locker room after practice, Thad was clean and as relaxed as he'd been in days when he appeared home with a soft pop just inside the front door of their little cottage. And gods did he love thinking of it as theirs.

"Honey, I'm home," he called out playfully, not spotting her right away, as he walked past the living room and kitchen to set the bouquet and takeaway on the dining room table.