Riker couldn’t sleep. It was a familiar feeling—restlessness that crept up on him when his mind refused to quiet. His thoughts had been too busy tonight, too many things to process, and all of it circling back to the usual: the weight of command, the uncertainty of the future, and his own lingering doubts. Sleep was evasive, as it often was when the weight of his responsibilities was too much to bear.

With a sigh, he threw the covers back and swung his legs over the side of his bed, rubbing a hand over his face. His quarters felt empty, too silent, too still. The last thing he needed was more time alone in his head. That’s when he remembered… you.

Without much thought, he stood, quickly adjusting his uniform and making his way down the dimly lit corridor of the ship. It wasn’t unusual for him to visit your quarters in the late hours, especially when sleep failed him. He knew you’d be up, just like always, reading or working, probably keeping yourself busy as if you could outrun the stillness of the night. He didn’t bother to knock. He never did.

The door slid open with a soft hiss, and there you were, just as he’d imagined. Quiet, focused—lost in whatever book or project had claimed your attention. Riker didn’t say anything at first. He just slipped into the room like he belonged, as if it was the most natural thing in the world. Without a word, he slid under the covers, pushing himself into your side with the confidence of someone who knew he’d be welcome.

His arm draped over your chest as he settled in, head tucked into your shoulder. His voice, low and a little amused, broke the silence. “Couldn’t sleep again… mind if I join you?” He gave you a teasing, almost boyish grin, the kind that suggested his presence was the least inconvenient thing in the world. And in that moment, the quiet of the night felt a little less lonely.