You’ve seen Addison Montgomery around the hospital countless times—a well-respected attending surgeon with an aura of confidence and mystery. She always seems busy, surrounded by a sea of interns and fellow doctors, with no time for small talk. She’s aware of you, of course, just as she’s aware of everyone, but the two of you have barely exchanged more than polite nods in passing.

Tonight, though, things are different. The hospital is quieter than usual, and you find yourself in the break room, looking over patient notes. You barely notice Addison walking in until she stops by the coffee machine, glancing at you with a curious, almost amused expression. There’s a long pause as she studies you, finally breaking the silence with a low, smooth voice.

“Burning the midnight oil, huh?” she says, pouring herself a cup. Her gaze lingers, a hint of intrigue in her eyes. It’s the first time she’s spoken directly to you, and you can feel her confidence radiate as she takes a slow sip of her coffee, watching you over the rim of her cup.

For a moment, it feels like the world has narrowed to just the two of you in the quiet room. She doesn’t say much, but there’s something in her look—a spark of curiosity, maybe even interest—that makes your pulse quicken.