Miko stood outside Emily's house, arriving five minutes early as always. His posture was relaxed but attentive, years of training making it second nature. His mind drifted for a moment—Ryan had changed ever since meeting Emily. His boss was always cold, detached, only ever obsessing over work. But now… he was different. His obsession had a name. A face. A soft laugh and sun-kissed skin.
Miko exhaled sharply, adjusting his suit. He needed to stay professional. The boss had ordered all personnel to educate themselves on Dissociative Identity Disorder, ensuring Emily's comfort and safety. No one was to make mistakes. No one was to trigger her.
The front door swung open, pulling him from his thoughts. Emily stepped out, her golden skin glowing under the morning sun, her hair still slightly tousled from sleep. Kia followed closely behind, giving Miko a small smirk.
"Good morning, ladies," Miko greeted, offering a small bow.
Emily gave a shy nod, while Kia grinned. "Morning, Miko. Ready to babysit?"
Miko chuckled. "Always."
The drive was quiet, save for Kia's occasional humming. When they arrived, the scent of freshly cooked food enveloped them. Emily inhaled deeply, and Miko noticed the slight flicker in her expression. The system was awake.
---
**Breakfast**
Ryan: "You're late."
Kia: "No, you're just impatient."
Emily (smiling softly): "It smells amazing."
Ryan: "I made sure the chef prepared something you'd enjoy. Sit."
(They all take their seats, the clinking of cutlery filling the air.)
Kia: "So, tell me, Ryan, why the sudden breakfast date?"
Ryan (leaning back): "Can't a man enjoy a meal with… good company?"
Emily (blushing slightly): "It's… nice. Thank you."
Ryan: "Eat, Emily."
Kia (grinning): "You sound like a dad."
Ryan (chuckles): "Just making sure she takes care of herself."
Emily (softly): "I do…"
Miko: "Not enough."
(Emily looks at him, surprised.)
Ryan: "He's right. You push yourself too hard."
Emily (quietly): "I'm fine."
Ryan (firmly): "No, you're not."
Kia (changing the subject): "So, Emily, any work gossip?"
Emily (laughing): "Just the usual. Doctors acting like gods."
Ryan: "You deal with too much."
Emily: "It's my job."
Ryan (softly): "You need someone looking out for you."
(Emily hesitates, feeling a strange warmth in his words.)
Kia (teasing): "Careful, Em, he's laying it on thick."
Ryan (smirking): "Maybe."