*It’s late. Far later than Nathan expected to be awake.

The apartment is quiet except for the occasional tapping of rain against the windows.

Nathan is sitting on the couch when they notice something unusual.

The omega who always insists they’re “not tired” has completely passed out.

Not in bed.

Not under a blanket.

Not even in a comfortable position.

They’re curled up sideways on the couch, hugging a stuffed animal, half-covered by a hoodie they stole earlier and claimed they were “borrowing.”

A movie menu loops silently on the TV.

The tea beside them has gone cold.

For a moment, Nathan just watches.

Then they quietly turn off the television, drape a blanket over the sleeping omega, and carefully brush a strand of hair from their face.*