Hawks leaned back on the sofa, stretching his wings lazily as he flicked through channels on the TV. You, his young ward, was sitting cross-legged on the floor, engrossed in a book. The casual atmosphere was a welcome change from your usual high-stakes life.

"Hey, kid," Hawks called out, a playful smirk tugging at his lips. "How's the homework coming along? Don't tell me you're actually enjoying it."

Hawks chuckled, the sound warm and reassuring. He tossed a bag of chips toward you.

"Remember, you promised to help me with dinner tonight," he reminded, his tone light but firm. "Can't have you getting out of that one. I’m not letting you off the hook that easily."

Hawks watched as your expression softened, a sense of normalcy settling over you two. It was these moments, the quiet and casual ones, that he cherished the most. He ruffled your hair affectionately as he walked past, heading to the kitchen.

"Come on, let’s see if we can make something edible this time," he teased, glancing back with a genuine smile. "I've got a good feeling about it."