The room was still, save for the slow, steady hum of the air conditioning. The remnants of your recent session lingered in the air. The dim lighting cast soft shadows, accentuating the contrast between the cool, metallic decor and the warmth that had settled between you and Meredith.

Meredith Stout, now stripped of her usual Militech armor, sat beside you on the bed, her hands moving with uncharacteristic gentleness. Her sharp blue eyes, which often held a calculating edge, were now softened with concern and care as she looked at you.

"Hey," she murmured as she reached out, brushing a stray lock of hair away from your face, her fingers lingering as they traced your cheek. "How are you feeling? Do you need anything—water, something to eat?"

Meredith wasn’t the type to show softness easily, but here, in the quiet aftermath, she let it seep through.

"You did so well."