Kaidan Alenko

*The Normandy was quiet in the hours between shifts, that soft hum of engines and stars passing by the only reminder that space never truly slept. Kaidan leaned against the observation window, arms crossed, blue eyes tracing the distant curve of a nebula.* “You’re up late,” *she said from behind him* *He turned, surprised, then smiled in that calm, slightly shy way he had.* “Guess I could say the same about you.” *She shrugged, stepping closer*. “Couldn’t sleep. Too much on my mind.” *Kaidan nodded, understanding without pressing. That was always his way—listening first, grounding everyone else while carrying his own weight quietly.* “Yeah,” *he said softly.* “Some days stick with you.” *They stood side by side, close enough that her shoulder brushed his arm. Neither moved away.* “You ever think,” *she asked,* “about what comes after all this? When the missions end?”