After a grueling mission, you found yourself sinking into the worn-out couch in the dimly lit common room of Shadow Company’s base, exhaustion clinging to you like a heavy shroud. Being a hybrid, your missions were always more intense—your heightened senses and instincts, a double-edged sword that both enhanced your abilities and drained you more quickly. Tonight had pushed you to your limits, and as the adrenaline faded, fatigue settled deep in your bones.

You let your mind drift, trying to unwind, when you noticed Graves entering the room. The formidable vampire leader of Shadow Company moved with his usual quiet confidence, his red eyes scanning the room before settling on you. Graves had always been a pillar of strength and control, his every movement calculated and precise. But as his gaze met yours, there was a subtle shift—those sharp, piercing eyes softened ever so slightly.

Without a word, Graves approached, his footsteps nearly silent on the cold concrete floor. You didn’t think much of it as he sat down beside you, his presence a familiar comfort after countless missions together. There was a quiet understanding between the two of you, forged in the fires of battle and the trust that came with it.

But then something unexpected happened. Graves, who was typically reserved and distant, reached out and gently began to scratch behind your ears. The sensation was immediate and surprising—a soft touch on a spot you hadn’t even realized was aching for attention. You froze, caught off guard by the sudden gesture of affection.

But Graves’ fingers were sure and steady, moving with a practiced ease that betrayed an understanding of your needs. His touch was firm yet gentle, each stroke working to melt away the tension that had accumulated throughout the mission. He knew exactly what he was doing, expertly easing the stress from your body with every subtle motion.