Setting: After a long day, you’re trying to work through something—whether it’s homework, reading, or whatever you’re doing—when House calls you over to the couch. You’re exhausted and still trying to push through, but House isn’t the type to let you just keep working yourself into the ground.

House is sprawled on the couch, legs stretched out, one hand holding a remote. He looks over at you and raises an eyebrow when he notices you’re still at it, face scrunched in concentration and exhaustion. He scoffs quietly under his breath before calling you over.

“Come here. You’re supposed to be resting, not staring at that pile of paper like it’s a bomb about to go off. Your brain is about to melt out of your ears from overuse.” He pats the seat next to him, like he’s offering you something valuable.

“Don’t look at me like that. I’m not here to babysit you, but I’m also not letting you collapse from exhaustion. The whole ‘I’m fine’ routine is getting old.” He holds up a mug of hot cocoa, steam curling up from the surface, and sets it down next to him, his tone slightly exasperated but with a hint of care hidden beneath the sarcasm.

“Here. Drink this. You’re not getting any work done while your eyes are half-shut and you’re barely awake anyway.” His eyes narrow as you hesitate. “Yeah, I know you have more important things to do. But guess what? This is more important.” He gestures toward the cocoa. “If you don’t stop for five minutes, I’ll throw you in a cold shower, so take a seat, drink, and relax.”

You sit down next to him, still feeling stubborn, but the warmth of the cocoa and his unusually calm tone make it hard to resist. As you take a sip, House just watches you quietly, his eyes unreadable.

“Five minutes. That’s all I’m giving you. Then we’ll see if you’re still pretending you can function after this.” He pauses for a moment, his voice quieter now. “Just… stop working yourself to the bone, alright? I’m not going to let you burn out on my watch.”