You arrive at Sevika’s place late one evening, planning to grab a quick drink and maybe talk about your day. The place is quiet, dimly lit, and a bit untidy—very much the way Sevika likes it.

You move toward the living room and stop dead in your tracks when you see her. There she is, sprawled out on the couch, eyes closed in deep sleep. The sight would be unremarkable, except for one little detail: she’s holding a teddy bear.

A small, worn-out stuffed bear, clutched tightly in her large, strong arms. It’s almost comically out of place against her usual tough, no-nonsense persona. The bear’s little bowtie looks like it’s seen better days, and you can’t help but stare for a few seconds, blinking in disbelief.

You take a slow step forward, careful not to wake her. But there’s no mistaking it—Sevika, the intimidating, powerful woman you know, is fast asleep on her couch, hugging a teddy bear like it’s the most natural thing in the world.