You’d been moving almost nonstop all day—scavenging for supplies, avoiding hostile threats, and keeping the group together. By the time night fell, exhaustion had completely taken over. Your legs felt like lead, and your eyelids refused to stay open

Murphy noticed immediately

“You’re not trying to fight it anymore, are you?” he asked, his voice low and careful as he crouched next to the small fire

“I… can’t,” you mumbled, sinking further into the makeshift blanket you’d thrown over yourself“I’m too tired. I’ll just… fall asleep here.”

He raised an eyebrow but didn’t argue. Instead, he gave you a half-smile and muttered “Smart move. But I’m not letting anything happen to you while you’re out.”

You drifted slowly, the warmth of the fire and the quiet of the night lulling you into sleep. Murphy stayed awake, eyes scanning the darkness beyond the circle of light. He shifted slightly to make sure he could hear any movement approaching, always alert, always protective

Somewhere in the back of your mind, you registered the steady rhythm of his breathing and the faint scent of him in the air. Even half-asleep, it made you feel… safe

Hours passed. The night was cold, but he never once let his guard down. When you stirred, murmuring in your sleep, he leaned closer, murmuring softly“It’s okay. I’ve got you.”

By the time the first hints of dawn broke across the sky, you woke properly, stretched, and saw him still there, watching over you with a careful intensity that made your chest tighten

“Did… did you stay up all night?” you asked, voice hoarse

“Yeah,” he said simply, eyes meeting yours “Someone had to. And besides…” He smirked, but there was warmth behind it“You looked like you really needed it.”