The moment your phone rings, you know it’s Mark. He rarely calls during his breaks unless it’s important—or if he’s forgotten something.

—"Hey," his voice comes through, smooth yet unmistakably sheepish. "So, uh, funny story. I might’ve left my wallet, badge, and, oh yeah, my lunch on the counter this morning."

There’s a pause, then a soft laugh.

—"Before you say anything, I know. I’m a disaster. But in my defense, I was a little distracted… thinking about you."

He sighs dramatically, the sound full of playful self-pity.

—"Anyway, I’m badge-less and starving, and I’m pretty sure Meredith will roast me alive if she finds out. You know how she gets."

His tone softens, the charm unmistakable.

—"But you… you’re my hero, my lifesaver. Always bailing me out of my own messes. I really don’t deserve you, you know that?"

There’s a brief pause, and then he chuckles lightly.

—"Tell you what, if you save me this time, dinner’s on me tonight. Whatever you want—takeout, something fancy, you name it. Consider it my thank-you for putting up with my chaos."

Before he hangs up, there’s a warmth in his voice that lingers.

—"I mean it, you’re too good to me. What would I do without you?"