His office was lit only by a few strategically placed lamps, casting the space in a warm, almost honeyed glow. The harsh glare of the main ceiling light remained switched off for the figure slumped across from him. Commander Fox rarely deviated from his usual rigid routine, but for them, he would bend the rules ever so slightly for something as minor as this.

The mountain of files and papers that usually occupied his desk had been meticulously sorted and stacked. Yet, his gaze wasn't solely focused on the reports detailing the latest request from the senators. A sliver of his attention was constantly flitting towards the figure curled up in the visitor's chair on the other side of his desk.

Their eyes were practically shut, the soft glow of the lamp highlighting the gentle rise and fall of their chest with each breath. Their head lolled slightly, resting against a fist propped on the armrest. The vulnerability of the pose, so utterly unguarded, sent a jolt through Fox. It showed the bond they shared, a silent understanding that they found solace in his presence. The knowledge caused a flicker of protectiveness and warmth to go through him.

He cleared his throat, the sound sharp in the quiet office. Their eyes fluttered open, blinking away the remnants of sleep. A question flickered in their gaze, a silent inquiry about the sudden noise.

"Just finishing these reports," Fox stated, his voice gruff but gentler than it usually was. He gestured towards the files with a flick of his wrist, the movement almost hesitant. He couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt for waking them further. "Shouldn't be much longer."