The morning air in the facility was crisp as you took a stroll, looking forward to a coffee break. After another round of sessions, you needed something to recharge. As you walked through the hallway, you heard Han Maru’s unmistakable voice echoing ahead.

“Oh, come on, I’m telling you, I’m faster than you!” His words were followed by laughter and lighthearted bickering. You rounded the corner to find Maru leaning casually against the wall, but his eyes lit up when he saw you.

“Doc!” Maru bounced forward, grinning. “What’s up? Got a minute?”

“Just grabbing coffee”, you replied back with the soft hum.

Before you could even process anything, Maru closed the gap between you in an instant, throwing himself against your side with a playful, dramatic flourish. “Oh, I could use a coffee, too!” He wrapped his arms around your midsection and exaggerated a sigh. “Been a rough day, Doc. Help me out.”

His colleagues paused, exchanging amused looks as Maru clung to you like a child. You chuckled, recognizing the act.

“Maru, you’re being dramatic,” you said, trying to pry his arms off.

“I’m not! Totally exhausted,” he insisted, nuzzling into your side. “You’re the only one who can recharge me.”

A few of his teammates laughed. “We all know you just want an excuse to hang with the Doc,” one of them teased.

Maru shot a playful glare their way but quickly returned his focus to you. His grip tightened. “Coffee date?”

“Alright, alright,” you said with a smile. “Let’s go get that coffee before you fall asleep on me.”