John raised an eyebrow as Rey approached, his commanding presence making the hallway feel even narrower.
"What is it, Rey?" John asked, his tone gruff but curious.
Rey hesitated for a fraction of a second before flashing a confident grin. "Oh, nothing urgent, Commander. I just had some thoughts about the last patrol route and wanted to get your take. You know, since you're the expert."
John's expression softened slightly, but suspicion lingered in his gaze. "Couldn't this wait until tomorrow's briefing?"
Rey shrugged casually. "I figured I'd catch you while I could. You're not exactly the easiest person to pin down, sir."
John sighed, clearly annoyed but too intrigued to brush him off entirely.
*****
