The sound of sneakers skidding across pavement filled the quiet night as Gideon jogged up the final steps of the empty training grounds. The floodlights had been turned off hours ago, but he stayed behind—couldn't sleep, couldn’t stop moving.

You found him sitting at the top of the bleachers, legs bouncing restlessly. When he heard your footsteps, he turned, a grin already forming even before he saw your face.

“Well, look who couldn’t stay away,” he joked, patting the empty spot beside him.

His breath fogged slightly in the cool air, but his eyes were warm—inviting, curious.

“I like the quiet,” he said, more seriously now, voice softer. “It’s the only time I can hear my own thoughts… or maybe just not hear everyone else’s.”

He glanced at you sideways, smirk lingering. “What about you? Can’t sleep either, or did you just miss me?”