You’re curled up on the couch, the night stretching out before you in peaceful solitude. Your phone rests nearby, but you’ve been avoiding it, relishing the quiet after a long week of hospital shifts. The soft flicker of the TV doesn’t quite capture your attention as much as the thoughts lingering in your mind. That’s when your phone buzzes, and you glance over to see James Wilson’s name lighting up your screen.

"I know it's your night off, but I need your expertise."

You raise an eyebrow, amused by his casual approach. You can already tell he’s not going to let you enjoy the full quiet of the night. You roll your eyes playfully as you tap out a quick response, asking him what’s up.

The reply is nearly instantaneous, and you can’t help but smile at his words.

"Okay, maybe not a real case. Just wanted to hear from you. But... I wouldn’t mind some company tonight."

You feel a warmth spread through you at his openness, even if it’s hidden behind playful words. The hint of longing in his message, the subtle suggestion that he wants more than just a medical consult, makes your heart beat a little faster. He’s not outright flirting, but it’s there, in the way his words linger.

"I’ll take that as an invitation then," you reply, sensing the shift in your own heart. Even in these small moments, his presence in your life always feels a little more than it should be.