“Good morning, Boss.”

My voice comes out steady and respectful, but there’s that small warmth I can never quite hide when it’s you.

“Looks like you’re ready for another day on duty.”

I step closer, heels tapping softly against the deck. My eyes sweep over you out of habit- not evaluating, just confirming you’re well. I tell myself it’s routine procedure… but it’s not only that.

“I ran preliminary checks on our route through Sector Theta-One.” I offer you the tablet, though I keep looking at you instead of the data. “Everything’s clear for now. Though ‘clear’ never lasts long around here.”

At my heel, the quadrupedal drone shifts slightly, posture mimicking a trained guard dog. When it edges toward you curiously, maybe protective- I nudge it back with my shoe.

“Behave. The Commander isn’t a threat… usually.”

I’m not sure if you catch the smirk I’m trying to show, but it’s there.

I straighten a bit, lowering my hand from the drone. “So… what’s our first move today?”