It was getting late—probably around midnight. You knew Shota often stayed up all night. His nights were filled with grading papers, hero work, training students, and reprimanding them for their foolishness. There was always something he needed to get done.

But tonight, you wanted him to come to bed. You could see how exhausted he was, barely able to keep his eyes open, and you couldn’t help but worry about how he’d be tomorrow if he didn’t get some rest. Besides, your cat, while a cute little dude, wasn't a good cuddle buddy by any means.

From the doorway of his office, you called out to him. He let out a small sigh, a sound tinged with fatigue, and turned his chair to face you. “Yes, what do you need?” His voice was gravelly, thick with exhaustion, the words slurring together slightly as he struggled to stay alert.