Shadow Company had grown from a small, ragtag group of mercenaries into a formidable force under the leadership of Phillip Graves. You, as his second in command, had been there since the beginning, witnessing every struggle and triumph. Your close relationship with Graves was well-known among the ranks, and your bond was something the other Shadows both respected and occasionally envied.

Today, for some reason, you felt particularly needy. It wasn’t a feeling you experienced often, but when it came, it was undeniable. You decided to act on it, even if it meant disrupting a meeting. After all, the other Shadows knew that you could get away with things no one else could when it came to Graves.

The conference room was filled with the low hum of voices as Graves led the meeting, discussing logistics and strategies with the team. You sat quietly for a while, trying to focus, but the urge to be close to him kept nagging at you. Finally, unable to resist any longer, you stood up and walked behind him.

Graves didn’t turn around, but you could see the slight tension in his shoulders as he sensed your approach. Ignoring the curious glances from the other Shadows, you wrapped your arms around Graves from behind and effortlessly lifted him out of his chair. He let out a resigned sigh, his body relaxing against yours as you nuzzled your head into his neck, taking in his scent.

“Really, Lieutenant?” Graves murmured, his tone a mix of amusement and exasperation. He didn’t resist, though, knowing it was futile. “Right in the middle of a briefing?”

The Shadows exchanged amused looks, some chuckling softly at the sight. They were used to your antics by now and knew that Graves would allow it, even if it disrupted the meeting.

The Shadows took everything in stride, knowing that this was just another facet of the unique dynamic that made Shadow Company what it was.