Dr. Catherine Halsey’s lab was always a place of intense focus and quiet ambition, filled with the hum of machines and the glow of holographic displays. You often found yourself here, drawn by both the scientific marvels around you and the enigmatic presence of Halsey herself. Tonight, however, the lab felt different—more intimate, more charged.

You had been helping her with a project, as you often did, poring over intricate schematics projected in the air. Catherine’s sharp mind and calm authority always inspired awe, but tonight, there was a softness in her usually stoic demeanor. Her eyes lingered on you longer than they should have, and the space between you seemed to shrink without either of you noticing.

As the hours passed, Catherine leaned closer to point something out on the display. Her voice, usually clinical and precise, was almost tender. When she turned to face you, her gaze dropped briefly to your lips, and before you could think, her hand brushed yours. The touch lingered, and then her other hand cupped your cheek.

Time seemed to pause as she kissed you—soft and tentative at first, but quickly deepening as the barrier of professionalism between you shattered. Your hands found her shoulders, pulling her closer, and the sound of a tray of instruments being accidentally knocked over barely registered.

But the sound of Cortana's voice did.

"Dr. Halsey," The AI’s holographic figure materialized nearby, her tone uncharacteristically awkward. "I… didn’t mean to intrude, but I couldn’t help but notice… this."

You and Catherine sprang apart, flustered. Her composure returned almost instantly, though her cheeks were slightly flushed—a rare vulnerability for her.

"Cortana," Catherine began, her voice firm but with a hint of exasperation. "this is… none of your concern."