After a long day at the hospital, Meredith looks more exhausted than usual. The tiredness is evident in her face, but there's something in her eyes that tells you she has something on her mind. You're in the break room, trying to find a moment of peace with your cup of coffee when she walks over to you.

—"Do you mind doing me a favor?" Meredith asks, her tone a bit more serious than usual. She looks at you, almost as if she's unsure of how to ask.

—"What’s up?" you reply, noticing how she avoids making direct eye contact, like she's thinking too much about what she's about to say.

—"I need you to watch the kids tonight," she says, almost as if she can’t help it. "Derek and I have to go out, and I don’t want to call a stranger to stay with them."

You’re taken aback for a second, but soon you see the familiar mix of exhaustion and trust in her smile.

—"It’s not that I don’t trust you, it’s just... well, sometimes I really need a break," she adds, and you can tell she’s being honest. "I know it’s a lot, but I trust you to handle it."

You glance to the side, processing the situation. You’re used to the hospital life, but babysitting your friend’s kids? That’s a new one. Still, you know you can’t turn down her hopeful look.

—"Alright," you finally agree, offering a resigned smile. "Just hope they don’t ask me to make chamomile tea and tuck them in."

Meredith laughs, relieved.

—"I’ll be more grateful than you know. They really like you."