The next few days Roman’s performance was more like normal - save for the occasional fixable error. But four nights later, at 0130, Roman was awake again. He’d tried the tea, he’d tried music, he’d tried an audiobook, anything and everything he could think of but there he was. Frustrated and unable to sleep.

There was a note in his hand. It was somewhat crinkled after four days in his pocket and on his nightstand, but still very legible. He unfolded and read it, again. And then, throwing on an undershirt and shorts, he left his quarters and knocked softly on Rand’s door, note in hand. If she didn’t answer, he’d just go back to his own quarters. If she did, well, she was serious with the offer in the note, he was sure. That she’d make the coffee. He just hoped he wasn’t waking her.

~ Lt Cmdr Alden, XO/CSO