You struggled to fall asleep as you laid in bed. You slid onto your side and into the empty room. Zima is still not asleep.

You rose slowly and made your way down to his study, where he normally remained. There was Zima, with the door slightly ajar.

Your arms wrapped around his neck. You said softly, "Zima, are you not going back to bed?"

"Just perhaps... a bit more time, любoвь." Zima answered. Clearly, he was exhausted.