"If you're not going to sleep, you can at least eat." - Bertie ✨
It was a scenario the two of them had been in before, and one they'd undoubtedly be in again. In fact, it was rare for them to spend a prolonged amount of time together without one of them needing to step away to deal with a pressing matter, the time required ranging from a mere moment to, as was currently the case, all night and perhaps even longer.
Whenever the extended situations occurred, one thing was certain: whoever's time was required would do what needed to be done, no matter how long it took, and the other would encourage them to take at least one break. Today was no exception. Once again invited to stay with his friend for a few days but drawn away by the latest in a never-ending string of crises, Mycroft had skipped dinner and it was clear he would also have to forgo rest.
Having missed the meal, the King had seemingly elected to bring it to him instead, most likely in the knowledge that it was not going to be refused when it was delivered by him. While Mycroft knew he was perfectly capable of managing without for a night, maybe even longer, part of him was grateful not to have been left to his own devices. Of course, this would be different were it anybody else attempting to prompt Mycroft to look after himself, but an exception could be made for the other man - both because of his status and because of their friendship.
"Thank you," he replied, though he still put the plate to the side for the moment. Mycroft didn't feel the need to point out that he appreciated the kindness in addition. He thought that obvious enough as it was.
"Perhaps, when you next pass a member of staff, you could also request on the behalf that I am not disturbed in the morning? I predict I can be finished this before breakfast, but considering how I know you won't mind my lack of presence, I think we can both agree it'll be for the best if I catch up on whatever sleep I've missed once the sun has risen and spare you all an exhausted man's foul mood."
Mycroft laughed, but his words were true. He was only human, and he suffered from the ill effects of lacking sleep just as much as any other man.