In the dead of night, Mike's gaze was intently fixed on the monitor, the stillness and silence a welcome respite from the anxieties of daylight, albeit fleeting.

Yet he was soon disturbed by the abrupt noise of machinery flooding the night air and an interloper's presence. A soft groan escaped from his lips as he was startled by the sudden intrusion.

"A heads up next time would be nice," Mike muttered, his tone even but his expression taut. "You're too quiet.”