Technical Devotion, Part Fourteen: Changes

technical devotion, part fourteen: changes

a/n okay so I have no restraint, I uploaded the last chapter and then immediately wrote this and am posting it immediately. also I am sorry I cannot write lingering conflict, I have no backbone. also new banner!! bc I'm indecisive. now that you know all my issues, enjoy!

warnings: depiction of a panic attack, smoking

last chapter | next chapter | master list | join the taglist

Echo had expected things to be different when him and Kan got back to base, but he hadn't expected it to be so immediate.

They had barely set one foot inside before they were whisked into command, where Kan was informed that her skillset would prove useful for mission planning, and that she would take on more responsibility from now on, gaining the unofficial rank of Sergeant. She had been honoured, of course, but it felt like something that was very much out if her comfort zone. She wasn't a leader, she was a follower, and that's how she liked it. Though, if Rex had faith in her, she trusted his judgement.

Echo was happy that he'd be working with Kan more regularly now, but so was almost everyone else in the room. He couldn't blame his brothers, she was gorgeous, and almost elusive to most of them, having never spoken to them. He watched on painfully as she reunited with Howzer, jumping into his open arms and hugging him tightly, and as they stayed touching each other, catching up excitedly.

Then he watched her reunite with her other friends from across the mess, Oscar ruffling her hair as he hugged her from the side, and Teddy high-fiving her and embracing her for good measure for beating Howzer to a proper command position.

Echo felt so foolish.

Foolish that he thought he was special because she was kind to him, foolish that he thought he was lucky to get to experience her touch, and foolish for ever even entertaining the idea that she could possibly harbour feelings for him.

Kan was kind, but she gave out her kindness to everyone without exception. That's what made it so hard for Echo to feel negatively about her - it wasn't her fault, it was his. His mistake.

And now it was too late to do anything about it.

He had fallen for her. Hard. And now he would have to carry on as if she was any other person at the base. He didn't know if he could, and so, reluctantly, he tried to distance himself from her.

Kan noticed immediately when Echo started pulling away. For one, whenever he had to address her in the command centre, he would call her ‘Kan’. She didn't mind of course, it was her name after all, but she had got used to him calling her ‘M'aira’, and she much preferred when he called her that. He was the only one who did, and that's what made it special.

He also never came to see her in her office, never said a word if she ever sat with Rex and Gregor at meal times, never spoke to her before bed, and she hadn't looked into his eyes since the day they got back. It hurt her a lot, and the only logical conclusion she could draw was that he was embarrassed of her. Embarrassed to call her M'aira, embarrassed to talk to her, and embarrassed to even look at her.

She didn't know why he felt that way, but it was obvious that whatever bond they had created during their time away from base was just a one sided thing. That it hadn't meant anything to Echo.

Between that and her new command position, Kan was extremely stressed out.

Her brain was going at a klick a minute, unable to shut off from either mission plans or Echo. She couldn't focus, and the only respite she got was sleep but that would elude her because the cause of half her problems was sleeping right next to her. She had begun sleeping in her office again, though her back certainly wasn't happy about it.

Teddy was a perceptive clone, and he could see how haggard she had become. He contantly asked how she was, but she would always just say she was tired, that was it. She had none of the usual spring in her step, and after a couple weeks of it not going away, and only getting worse, he finally did something.

He dragged her outside after dinner, with the aim of getting her to relax. He took her over to the edge of the platform, and they sat down, looking out on the view of the deep reds and browns of the rocky terrain that surrounded the base.

“Here” He offered her his cigarra after he'd taken a drag, “To help you relax”

“No thanks” She said simply, accompanied by a weak smile.

“Kan…” Teddy began. He didn't really know what to say, but he tried his best, “What's going on with you? And I want a real answer this time”

Kan looked up at him sadly, her eyes glistening, before looking out to the view again. “I don't know, everything is just too much at the moment” She took the cigarra from his hand and took a long drag before passing it back.

Teddy watched on in worry, “What is? It might help to get it off your mind”

Kan sighed deeply, exhaling the smoke, “It sounds so ridiculous when I say it out loud though”

“I'm sure it doesn't, come on” Teddy urged, and he could see her cracking, beginning to open up.

“Well… for one, being a Sergeant is absolutely no fun” She said pointedly, and Teddy chuckled.

“Why not?”

“It's so much responsibility, I can't stop thinking about how my actions affect everyone here, how I could be the reason for someone being killed or captured by the Empire” She explained, her shoulders slumping with each word.

“Have you talked to Rex about it?” Teddy asked.

“No” Kan laughed, “I couldn't, he's such a natural, he wouldn't understand”

Teddy shook his head, “Just because he's a natural doesn't mean he lacks empathy. I'm sure he'd be able to help ease your worries”

“Maybe about that” Kan mumbled, loud enough for Teddy to hear it.

“What else is going on then?” He asked, taking another drag.

Kan looked out at the view despondently, slumped forwards onto her knees. He gave her the time to answer the question on her own time, which took longer than he was hoping.

“It's Echo” She finally whispered.

“Echo? What about him?” Teddy hadn't noticed anything out of the ordinary with him.

“It's- We-” Kan sighed aggressively, “We were getting on so well during our mission, but when we came back, it's like he hated me or something. He never talks to me unless it's regarding a mission but even then it's more talking around me to other people, and he never looks at me anymore, I just-” She stopped herself before she could get choked up.

“You just what?” Teddy pressed.

Kan chewed on her lip, “I really thought he might like me back, you know?” She said quietly, and Teddy understood immediately.

He placed his arm around her shoulders and hugged her into his side. “I know, I know” He spoke soothingly, rubbing her arm.

Kan rested her head on Teddy's shoulder, “It's just embarrassing, to be wrong”

“Yeah, but hey, that's on him. If he doesn't like you, he's a di'kut”

Kan looked up and saw the small grin on Teddy's face, and her own lips curled up, “Yeah?”

“Absolutely, you're a catch” Teddy said, earning a small giggle from Kan.

“Thanks Teddy, so are you”

“I know” He smirked, resting his head against hers as they looked out again.

“Thanks for bringing me here, I really needed this” Kan spoke sincerely.

“No problem K” Teddy squeezed her slightly before standing up, “Let's go inside yeah?”

Kan didn't respond immediately, looking over the setting sun, “I think I'll just stay here for another moment, watch the sun set”

“Alright, I'll see you later then” Teddy said, giving her shoulder a supportive squeeze before walking away.

When she knew Teddy had left, Kan finally let herself cry.

She let out a choked sob, the product of bottling up her frustration, anger, sadness and embarrassment for weeks. Now that she had popped the cork, she couldn't stop the flow of tears that fell from her eyes. She pulled her knees to her chest and buried her head in them, her vision blurred and her breath ragged.

She thought of her mother and father. She wondered if they would be proud of the work she was doing. She thought of Master Unduli, she thought of Spider, she thought of Senator Organa, she thought of Rex, Howzer, Gregor, Oscar, Teddy, and finally, Echo. Every insecure thought, every nasty thing she ever had to say about herself clogged her mind in an instant, and she felt as if she couldn't breathe.

She let her legs hang over the side of the platform again and gripped the edges tightly. Her eyes were screwed shut and her breathing was only becoming more unstable, no matter how much she tried to calm it. Her stomach was in knots, she was choking on the tears that wouldn't stop falling, and her body was shaking involuntarily. She knew what this was, she had experienced them enough, and she just hoped that if she could grip the platform hard enough that it would subside quicker. She had no such luck.

She heard her name shouted, but to her it sounded feint, like she was underwater. She curled up again, facing away from the voice. She heard them again, and felt someone touch her back gently, though they might as well have struck her with lightning for how she reacted.

She flinched away, trying to find her voice, managing to choke out “Go away”

Her own voice sounded foreign to her ears in this altered state of being, but she couldn't think about it for too much longer before she was enveloped by a pair of arms. She rested her forehead on the person's chest, heaving and trying to calm herself. As she came down from the worst of it, something about the person felt so familiar, and she soon realised exactly who it was when they brought a hand to the bare skin on her back, and it was exceedingly cold and smooth.

She knocked herself backwards, falling onto her backside as she looked up at him, the catalyst of all her problems. Echo was looking down at her with worry painted on his face, and she frowned as her breathing evened out more. She scrambled from the floor and uttered apologies as she ran away from him, back towards the base.

Echo followed after her, catching up to her quickly and moving around her so he could stop in front of her.

“M'aira, what's going on? What's the matter?” He asked, placing his hands gently on either side of her arms.

Kan didn't say anything. She just stared at him, her chest heaving and a deep frown settled over her features.

“M'aira?” Echo said quietly, stepping towards her, but Kan stepped back a few paces.

“Why are you calling me that?” She tried to speak plainly, but her voice was still thick with emotion.

“What?” Echo asked, confused as to why she would ask that.

“Aren't you worried someone is going to see us talking?” She asked, her voice breaking.

Echos heart fell from his chest, “What do you mean?”

Kan could feel her bottom lip begin to quiver and she instinctively dug her teeth into it to stop it. She wasn't going to let Echo see her cry. Well, anymore than he already had.

“What’s going on M'aira, why are you upset?”

The use of the nickname once more sent her over the edge, “Because of you!” She shouted, though her anger was swallowed by embarrassment as she barged past Echo and made her way inside.

Echo stood frozen on the spot.

Because of me? But I haven't even spoken to her in… oh.

He quickly followed after her again, not entirely sure where she was headed but he hoped it was towards her office. He saw the door close from the end of the hall and heard the lock engage immediately after, something he didn't even know the door was capable of.

He knocked a few times, and heard Kan sniffle but she didn't reply.

“M'aira, please open up” He said gently, leaning his forehead on the door.

“Go away Echo” She replied, and Echo sighed deeply.

“Kandam'aira… please, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to upset you”

The door then zipped open and he fell forwards slightly, finding himself in the room as Kan closed the door again.

“What did you mean to do?” She looked up at him sternly, her cheeks stained by tears.

“I-” He couldn't admit to his feelings right now, that would only confuse her, “I just thought you might want some space”

“Why would you think that? I thought we were friends, Echo. Friends at least look at each other from time to time”

“I know, I'm sorry, I guess I just figured that we'd been together for a while and you might be sick of me” He stated, though it came out more like a question.

“Well I don't” Kan crossed her arms, and Echo blinked at her.

“Don't what?”

Kan rolled her eyes, “I don't want space”

“Oh, right” Echo said awkwardly, and Kan felt her undeniable fondness for him returning as she looked up at his blushing cheeks.

She then quickly wrapped her arms around his torso, hugging him tightly, “I missed you”

Echo could feel his heart ache as she gripped him tightly, and he matched her hold, resting his cheek on the top of her head, “I missed you too”

Kan pulled back, looking up at him sheepishly, “I'm sorry you had to see me all…” She wiped her cheek, “Panicky”

“I don't mind, I'm just sorry that I caused it” He said, bringing his own hand up to wipe the wetness from her cheek.

Kan sighed, “It wasn't just you”

Echo gave her a questioning look and she shook her head slightly, “I'm just stressed, but I'll be fine”

“What are you stressed about?” Echo pressed.

“Nothing, I think I'm going to get an early night now” She said, opening the door.

“Hey” Echo gripped her shoulders lightly, “We can talk about it if you want?”

“Another time maybe” She smiled up at him, “Goodnight Echo”

Echo sighed with a worried smile, “Goodnight M'aira”

Kan's smile grew at the use of the nickname as she stepped away from Echo, hoping its return was permanent.

this is so phenomenal?!!?! your writing is amazing

dark blue

summary: you’re hurting, and you don’t know if you can let hunter in

pairing: hunter x reader

rating: mature (17+)

warnings: mentions of drinking and alcohol, drunkenness, mentions of vomiting, angst, hurt with comfort, heavy feelings, kissing, non-explicit descriptions of sexual intimacy, mature themes in general, mutual pining, swearing, reader kinda sucks with emotions

word count: 3.9k

notes: bone apple teeth! dies

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

Your arm hangs over the tub's porcelain edge, beads of water streaking down the skin like rain. Bubbles and foam have long dissolved, yet you remain uncomfortably unmoving, eyes waterlogged and heavy. You don’t know how long you’ve been submerged, your skin beginning to prune and wrinkle much like your demeanor tonight. The weight of your loathing pulls down on your eyes, and you let them slip closed. 

Pulsing lights, loud music, and a mass of writhing bodies replay under your eyelids. Your stomach sours, and the feeling claws up your throat like the drink you tossed back two hours ago. A drunken holo, strong hands, and the heady scent of him remind you of why you’re even here. You sink further down into the tub, hoping that somehow the water will wash away your guilt.

You hiss as a raw ankle brushes along the bottom; you’d figured those strappy heels weren’t a good idea, but it didn’t feel that way at the time. You had a good time, you think. You had a good time, but the tears streaming down your face held their own narrative. You let out a choked sob, but before you can consider pulling it together, a gentle knock at the door has you reeling.

“Are you okay?” Hunter’s voice comes through muffled from behind the door. His tone is dripping with worry, and the knot in your stomach tightens. 

Are you okay? The question hangs over your head like a forbidden fruit, daring you to bite. You want to sink your teeth in and spill your guts–to tell him that you're not okay and that you need him, that you want-

He calls your name, and you hear his hand settling on the door's console. His concern nearly breaks your heart.

A scratchy "fine" is all you can muster. You're trying to hold the pieces of yourself together, all jagged and misshapen, but your hands are beginning to bleed. 

You can still feel him hovering behind the door, the air heavy enough to cut through. You can’t trust yourself to say anything else. 

He knows he’s hovering; he knows that you know he’s hovering. He shouldn’t be, though. He should be giving you the space you need right now, not rolling a question in between his teeth. He swallows it, choosing to leave you be, and pads back over into the living room.

A holomovie plays on the television, but he pays it no mind. 

I'm losing it, he thinks, brown-grey eyes flitting towards the bathroom door every few seconds. His hands unconsciously twirl a pen in between deft fingers, senses on the cusp of overload. Normally the thought of you filled him with something warm and saccharine, like a blanket wrapped around his heart. But now, with you being in the state that you're in, he can't help but feel prickly and uncomfortable. 

He'd been asleep when he got the call, eyes glossed over, squinting over a blue comlink. Your slurred voice and drunken divulgences had him vertiginous, chest cracking open and hands all clammy. You hadn't spoken to each other since the misunderstanding, as you had put it, from two weeks ago. You said that you wanted your space, and he respected that. 

Now, he wanted nothing more than to just hold you. He's staring at the door, he realizes, unconsciously listening for any sign of you. 

He's your Jedi Knight; your protector. Without a doubt, he'd go to war for you, hands all filthy and bloodied and split if it meant yours could remain clean. 

It was also why he felt like utter shit when he pulled up to the bar to see you slumped over inside a comm booth. 

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

"Fuck," he breathes, clambering out of his speeder and making his way to you. He swears he's never moved faster in his life, the cuffs of his jeans dampening from each wet slap of his boots on the pavement. He approaches the glass doors, and his eyes focus on your watery form. The tendons in his heart snap. 

Your face is ruddy and sticky with sweat, strands of hair clinging to your forehead like a halo. A pretty dress is smattered with stains, no doubt from a drink, or drinks, that you'd likely spilled on yourself. Tears streak your face, taking what was left of your makeup with them.

You're a mess.

Without hesitation, he hooks his arm under your knees and uses the other to support your back. He shifts on his weight, and your cheek lazily slumps against his firm chest.

"I've got you," he breathes. "I've got you." 

His steps are careful, calculated. Like a painter unveiling his masterpiece, he cradles you with reverence. He lays you down gently in the backseat, sliding his jacket down strong arms and draping it over your pretty figure. Calloused fingers brush away the wisps of hair stuck to your face, and you begin to stir.

Your head lolls to the side, and a choked groan rolls out of your throat. You feel like a hammer is cracking down against your skull, a poisonous rhythm that has you almost spilling the contents of tonight on rubber floor liner. 

Hunter scrambles to the middle console, plucking a bottle from the cupholder. You feel a familiar hand on your arm, calm and inviting; the opposite of how you're feeling right now. His warmth is the eye of your storm, and you're craving more. 

"Hey," he rasps, his timbre clattering around in your ears, replacing the loud thump thump thumping of your heart. It's gentle and sweet, and your bleary eyes find his amidst a dark sky and flashing lights. 

"Hunt..." is all you can say, the word clawing its way through your teeth. 

A strong hand slides in between your shoulder blades, and slowly sits you up. The bottle of something is pressed to your lips, and you part them. The liquid runs down your throat; an oasis in a desert, it brings you back to life. 

"I'm gonna take us home, okay?"

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

Home. Even inebriated, his words had nearly knocked you flat on your ass. This wasn't your home, it was his. You were sitting in his bathtub, in his bathroom: in his home. 

He opened himself up to you in ways you didn't think possible; you held the keys to his heart, locked the door, and ran. 

You wanted to. You wanted to tell him that you loved him too. He was so sure, so hopeful that the stars had aligned it for you both. He was so sure that your souls had woven themselves together, an intricate tapestry of adoration and understanding no saber could cut through. Maybe the seams weren't strong enough.

Your watery reflection stares back at you, and your lungs constrict.

You can't do this.

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

You open the door, a cloud of hot steam following you as you pad towards the living room. Hunter had given you one of his shirts and a pair of shorts to wear, and the fabric clings awkwardly to your frame.

Hunter sits on the sofa, pretending to watch the TV. 

"Didn't know you had a thing for fixer-uppers," you tease. Your heart's not in it, but you want to break through the tension somehow. You miss the way he takes a breath before facing you.

You're fully clothed, yet you feel so naked in front of him. You want to cover up, throwing a flustered “Get out!” over your shoulder whilst you find something to conceal your vulnerability with.

Like a moth to a flame, his eyes are drawn to your light. You're swallowed by his shirt and his shorts, and it all begins to feel so domestic. He can't help it, letting his mind wander into uncharted territory–a thick jungle of things said and unsaid. Maybe he could've woken up to the sight of you in it, your face squished into plush pillows, serene as ever. Maybe he could've wrapped his arms around you, bunching the fabric up to your waist, tracing the sultry curve of thigh. He'd take care of you, love you the way you needed, the way you deserved.

Maybe he could've been something more to you.

You're melting under his gaze, white-hot electricity coursing through your veins. Your mouth opens.

"I'm-"

"Hey, I-"

You both speak at the same time; your lips clamp shut, and he does the same. He stares at you, silently begging you to say something. You take the hint.

"I'm sorry." The words feel like sandpaper on your tongue, the grit of your guilt spilling over. Every nerve in your body is lit ablaze, and you're too wrecked to snuff them out. 

Like a child who's been caught with their hand in the cookie jar, you want to run. You're looking this way and that, arms self-soothingly folded over your torso. You rock on the balls of your feet, unsure what to do with yourself.  

He sighs, thick and heavy. "Do you know what could've happened to you?" 

The implications are all there. Maker knows what could've happened had you not dialed his number. And you knew it. 

You're quiet. You don't know what else to say; what else is there to say?

Wordlessly, he pads over to you, his familiar warmth spreading across your shoulders and leading you toward the sofa. He sits you down, and it's frustratingly gentle.

"Are you hungry?" 

"No." The word darts through your teeth quicker than you expect, and it makes you wince. 

He chuckles at that. "Liar."

You let out a small laugh through your nose, breezy and cool. He'd always been able to read you; his senses were always keen when it came to you, and you swore he knew you better than you knew yourself at times. Like some sort of omniscient deity, he could see right through you, cutting through all the weeds and all the bullshit. 

But you couldn't handle that right now.

He's in the kitchen, making a sandwich, you think. You laugh to yourself, it's tight, but the thoughts of him stumbling around in the kitchen make you a little warmer. 

He'd always been a terrible cook, fumbling around everywhere and making a mess of himself. He was like a rancor in a china shop, utter destruction following in his wake. He'd given up on trying to learn, and you'd given up on trying to teach him. 

You tentatively turn towards the open kitchen, and then you're staring. Your eyes trace over his features; like a painter studying his muse, you note every detail, every stroke of the brush you'd need to make. Deep brown eyes are hyper-focused, framed by long brown locks curling down to his shoulders, a red bandana holding it all together. A strong aquiline nose crests over a chiseled face and stubbled jaw; maker, he was beautiful. 

You assumed he was a bit of a player when you first met; a lethal combo of face and body that left a string of holo-frequencies scrawled onto sticky notes and a series of romantic escapades; and maybe you were right. He'd been in and out of bedrooms before, maybe in search of the same thing you were: but you didn't even know what that was yet. 

You got to know him, peeling back all the layers and fluff and stripping him down to the core. You realized just how wrong you had him. He was always a gentleman, a gemstone in the dirt. He never played games or messed around for the hell of it; he was real. You weren't used to that.

Maybe it's why the pool of regret in your stomach swallowed you whole tonight, leaving you with a bruised ankle and a stained dress. 

You slump against plush cushions, heart heavy and mind spasming. You're tired in every sense of the word, the gears in your head creaking to a halt; you've got no juice left. 

Hunter returns from the kitchen, handing you a homemade sandwich and a bag of chips. 

"Thank you," you tell him. You don't think you've ever been more thankful for someone. He smiles at you, and it's warm–something you'd wrap in foil and save for later.

"Of course." He says it like it's obvious. Obvious that he'd be there for you when you needed him; he always was. 

He sits beside you on the sofa stealing shy glances at your side profile, and it hurts him. It hurts knowing that you would never want him in the way that he wanted you. He'd remain on the backburner then, starting the gas and keeping you warm if that's what you wanted. 

You catch him staring at you, and you stare right back. He knew you, but you'd argue you knew him better. His eyes are trying to tell you something, and that knot in your stomach returns. 

He wants to talk about it.

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

You stare into the dark blue of the sky, cool and vast like the deep end of a pool; you want to dive in and drown in it. Stars are all smattered against the surface as if someone had flicked a paint brush against it, and you try to reach up and grab one.

"Not getting lost up there are you?" a voice says to your right, and you nearly jump ten feet in the air.

"Shit-!"

"M'sorry," Hunter laughs, and it instantly dissolves your annoyance. "Was gonna ask if you were ready to go?" His eyes flash down on you, and you're beginning to get lost in hues of brown and gold.

You shake your head, trying to clear it of cobwebs and butterflies before you answer. "Yeah," you breathe. "You made reservations, right?" "

"Yeah, ten o'clock." 

Then you're staring at each other. Something in the air shifts, and you both know it. These little moments you've had with each other were happening more often; like the steady drip of water in a bucket, you'd walked away for a second, and now it's on the brink of overflow. 

The woody scent of his cologne fries your senses, and you try to keep your eyes from shamelessly ravaging his form. 

But Hunter's unabashed, unshameful without remorse. His eyes flit up and down your curves, taking in how your dress hugs you in all the right places.  You playfully slap his arm.

"Quit that!" But you don't mean it, a smile spreading across your face like butter. 

He meets your eyes again, and he doesn't hear you call his name over the thumping of his heart. His mouth opens and closes like a fish out of water, your line cast.

"Hunter?" His name falls from your lips again, and he's just staring; your presence alone is a siren's call, and he's about to end up floating in the depths below. 

He has to do this, he thinks. He's been waiting for the perfect time, an opportunity to give himself over to you; to tell you how you've infiltrated his very core, molding it into your shape. To tell you how often he thinks of you, his head full of sugar and cotton and everything you.

 The tick tick tick of the clock is winding down, and he's falling behind. 

"Hunt-"

"I love you!”

You're frozen. The fire lit in your belly is put out cold, and now you're left shaking. 

Fuck.

The words don't sit in your stomach right, twisting and turning and gnawing at you as they settle to the bottom. They wrap themselves around your neck and squeeze. His confession shouldn't be coming as a surprise to you; the signs were always there, big bold letters and all: I love you.

You hold onto the balcony railing in an attempt to ground yourself. A hand cools the white-hot grip you have on the metal bars.

"Are you okay?" His voice is worried–terrified, even. He fucked up. The timing was all wrong; he should've told you sooner, or later. Maybe he was being selfish, unfairly assuming your heart did rounds in your ears when you were around him. Maybe he-

"I can't do this." Your voice comes out creaky and broken, and Hunter feels his chest cave in. 

He feels awful, the kind that leaves you with cracked ribs and a broken jaw. He took a risk, diving into those dark depths, and ended up being pulled straight under. 

But he was so sure.

He does what does best; he comforts you. Large palms caress your shoulders as they begin to shake, the weight of his words settling in the gaps. 

"I'm so sorry," he's telling you, and it's so soft and sincere it has you heaving. "I'm sorry…I never meant to hurt you." 

That seals it, and you're sobbing even harder: all hot tears and a snotty nose. 

You're no stranger to hurt. You'd tried your hand at relationships before, throwing darts at the board until something stuck. You'd accounted for the grit and grime: the song and dance of trying to love someone else, except you had two left feet. Once the music stopped, you'd turn over, your partner long gone. 

And so you buried the dartboard along with everything else, packing it away into the dirt like cement, and walked away. 

And then he came along.

All charm and smolder, sweeping you off of your feet with ease. You both were like magnets; there was no push and pull, no tugging on a rope or trying to keep him tethered, he was always drawn to you. He understood you, believed in you. He introduced you to his brothers and sister, giving you a family of your own; something to always keep close to your heart. 

And you didn’t want to lose that.

Love just erodes things, in your eyes. 

“Just go.” It comes out defeated, pathetic. A boulder in your throat, you’re barely able to say the words, much less to him. You do what you do best: run away. 

He can’t be hearing you correctly. He lets go of you, much to his chagrin, and steps away. A strong jaw locks–petrified. He’d planted the seeds of you in his heart, and you’d ripped them out by the root. Your words clatter around in his head, but he reigns them in and takes a good look:

This isn’t you. 

“What’s going on?” He says it as gently as he can, like soothing a wounded animal, he doesn’t want to scare you away any more than he already has. 

You can’t look him in the eye. Bile edges on your teeth and your next words come out venomous: “I don’t want to do this with you.”

Yes, I do.

“Just leave me alone-”

Please don’t go.

“I just can’t-”

I will, for you.

Like a child learning to speak, your words trip and tumble over themselves. There’s too much to say, that grime still under your fingernails. How do you articulate two years of pain? You feel him stepping closer to you, and that gnawing urge to flee at the base of your skull chews into your brain. Rough palms curl around your arms, and he turns you around so that you’re facing him. He stares into watery red eyes and feels his heart split. He doesn’t want to be selfish; he’s far from that, but he just needs to know–to understand what all of this meant to you. But he needs to check in on you first; like he always has. 

“Tell me what’s wrong…please?” He’s pleading with you, and you feel sick. You know you’re pushing him away, culling peonies and roses, and leaving nothing but dirt. You meet his eyes: brown, gold, and gray. 

He bristles as if caught off guard, but he recovers just as quickly. His lips part, the question practically hanging out of his mouth.

“Are you afraid?”

You shut down after that. He tries to reel you back in, but you sever the line. He begs you for an answer, an explanation, but you can’t give him one even if you want to. Push and pull, push and pull; you tell him that you want your space, and leave him alone on that balcony. He shatters, and you step on the jagged pieces as you walk away. 

He stares up into the sky, that vast dark blue, stars reflecting in teary hues of brown and grey. 

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

“I know you said you wanted to be left alone, but I just-”

“I am.” You interject; like the waves on Kamino, your voice rolls out uneasy and turbulent. He’s giving you a quizzical look, and you purge your head of cotton. “Afraid, I mean.”

He’s staring at you, or rather into you, silently begging you to continue. You swallow.

“I don’t…I don’t know how…” 

You grow hot, anxiety settling uncomfortably in your stomach like a bad meal. You’re meeting his eyes, and it takes everything in you not to break down into tears. Every fiber of your being is telling you to run, to wave a white flag, and scream “I surrender!” But you don’t. Not this time.

“I know that I’ve hurt you, and I’m sorry. I’m sorry I couldn’t be honest, or give you a reason why. I’m sorry that I left you alone, and I’m sorry that you had to save my ass tonight. And I’m so sorry that I made you feel like you didn’t matter to me because you do.” You’re sobbing at this point, and you feel him envelop you, all warmth and compassion, but you keep going, spilling your guts into his shoulder. 

“I’m scared, Hunter. Scared that if I tell you I love you too, you won’t be there when I roll over in the morning.” You break through the dirt and the grime and the weeds, telling him what sat heavy on your chest for the past two weeks. Cutting through the vines and underbrush, you find your flowers, and pick one just for him. 

“I love you, Hunter.” 

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

He’s got an arm wrapped around your waist, pulling you into his orbit. You cradle his cheek, hard and defined, and it fits so perfectly in your palm. You start tracing his features with your thumb, saving every bump, dip, and hollow in your memory–locking it away in your heart. 

Clothes are strewn around the room from the heat of your passion; you told him loved him, and decided to show you how much he loved you. There was a warmth building up inside of him, and he wanted to share it with you.

You’re naked, but in a way feels good, in the way that gives you hickies and butterflies. He’s streaked by hues of dark blue, and you can’t help but think of the night sky: bold, bright, and beautiful. He’s beautiful. You press soft lips to his forehead, and he unconsciously pulls you closer. 

Your heart swells with gratitude; after all of it, he stuck by you. Had the roles been reversed, you knew that he would’ve never left you alone on that balcony, reaching into the stars by yourself. He pried open your ribs, searching for your heart when you couldn’t do it yourself. He saw you bleeding and carved out pieces of himself to patch you up with. You close your eyes, and the only thing behind them are pictures of both of you.

He’s still there when you roll over in the morning.

Congratulations on the followers!

Can I please request a fluffy enemies to lovers with a clone of your choice with the prompt “Did you just call me cute?”

Would love to see any! Female reader if possible. Thanks! 💓

Up Close and Personal 🌊

🫧 Pairings: Commander Fox X Female!Reader

word count: 3.9k

prompt:

• “Did just call me cute?”

Plot: When you accidentally let slip you thought Fox was cute, he grows curious and wonders if you still think the same under the helmet.

Warnings: Safe for work, grumpy/sunshine trope, teasing, awkward moments, flirting, kissing, mutual pining, accidental confessions.

You’ve been working alongside the Coruscant Guard for a while now, handling everything from delivering reports to managing routine tasks that help keep the operation running smoothly. Most of the clones greet you with a warm smile and friendly chatter when you drop by.

You were cheerful and always had a smile on your face, nothing ever seeming to phase you.

But when it comes to Commander Fox, he doesn’t seem to match your enthusiasm. Where others find a moment to chat or joke around, Fox’s response is always the same: curt and dismissive.

You remember one time when you entered the office, probably a fortnight ago, laughing with Thire and Stone as you handed them their files. “You’re a lifesaver,” Thire had said with a sigh of relief and grin after his had miraculously gone missing. You of course always had extra, just in case.

Stone chuckled and added, “You’re the only reason we stay organised.”

Before you could reply, however, Fox cut in. His tone like durasteel. “Can you just leave the files and go? Some of us are trying to work.” He hadn’t even looked up, but the chill in his voice was unmistakable. You forced a smile, and rolled your eyes at his attitude when you left the office that day. It didn’t bother you as you were used to his moods but you couldn’t help wondering what it would take to get past that fickle exterior.

And despite his attitude, you had noticed Fox’s subtle care for his brothers; something you found rather endearing. You’ve caught him running silent armour checks, making sure everyone’s gear is spotless and in perfect order. Of course, it’s not about vanity but simply about keeping his men safe.

It’s those types of moments that make you think there’s more to him beneath the mask. Or helmet in this case.

Today, you decide to do something different. Rumors have been swirling that the Guard’s workload has been overwhelming lately. Crime in the lower levels is on the rise, and the boys are sadly running themselves ragged. So, you arrive at their station with a special treat: caf orders, each customised exactly how you know they like it.

You start with Commander Thire, who breaks into a grin as you hand him his cup. “You’re too good to us,” he says, taking a sip. “Thanks.”

Next is Stone, who raises an eyebrow in surprise. “Didn’t expect this today,” he says, taking the steaming cup. “But I’m not complaining.” He shoots you a wink. “You really know how to keep morale up.”

Sergeant Hound, busy tinkering with his gear with Grizzer snoozing at his feet looks up with a smile when you hand him his drink. “You actually remembered mine,” he says, sounding almost impressed. He takes a long sip before giving you a small nod. “Cheers. Really needed this.”

Finally, you approach Fox. He’s leaning back in his chair, arms folded across his chest, watching you carefully through his visor. “I’ll assume you didn’t get me anything,” he says, voice as flat as ever.

You fight back a smirk and meet his gaze behind the visor. “You assume wrong, Commander.” You slide the cup across his desk. It’s strong, with a hint of sweetness—your best guess based on what you’ve observed. Alongside it, you place a small sweet treat and the stack of data devices you’ve been carrying. Oh, and you also could help but draw a small smiley face on the lid to his cup.

Fox doesn’t touch the drink. Instead, he gives a sharp nod. “Just leave it and go.”

You swallow your disappointment, trying to keep your smile from faltering. “Of course, sir.” You turn to leave, the brief flash of hurt lingering despite your best efforts to shrug it off. Huh, maybe it did get to you.

As you exit, you catch a glimpse of Thire, Stone, and Hound exchanging looks before Thire’s voice cuts through the room. “You know, Fox, a ‘thank you’ wouldn’t kill you.”

Fox remains silent, but you don’t stay long enough to see or hear his reaction. The door closes behind you, and you let out a quiet sigh.

Moments later, you hear quick footsteps behind you. “Hey, wait up!”

You turn to see Thire jogging to catch up. “Don’t take it personally,” he says, offering a sympathetic smile. “Fox is… well, Fox. If he didn’t like you at least a little, he wouldn’t let you stick around.”

You laugh softly, though the sting hasn’t fully faded. “Doesn’t feel like it sometimes. I know he’s under a lot of stress, but still…”

Thire nods, understanding in his eyes. “He’s got a funny way of showing appreciation. But trust me, we all see what you do for us, even if he doesn’t say it. You’re a bright spot in this whole mess.”

Your smile this time is more genuine, though still a bit weak. “Thanks, Thire. I just wish I could get through to him, you know?”

“Give it time,” Thire says, clapping a hand on your shoulder. “He’ll come around. Until then, we’ve got your back.”

A few days later, you arrive with—surprise, surprise—yet another stack of files. You expect to find the usual group in the office, and sure enough, Thire, Stone, and Hound are all at their stations, busy with their tasks. But there’s one notable absence: Commander Fox. You glance around, scanning the room in curiosity.

Before you can ask, Stone notices the way you’re searching and smirks. “Looking for someone?”

Your cheeks warm slightly, realising you’ve been caught. “Nope,” you reply, a little too quickly. “Just… making sure I don’t miss anyone.”

Thire chimes in, an amused glint in his eye. “Sure, that’s what you’re doing.”

You roll your eyes playfully, trying to play it off. “Honestly, you guys are worse than all those gossiping cadets and shinies.”

“Did Fox ever apologise for the other day?” Hound asks as you stand nearby, shifting through some flimsi. His question surprised you a little since you hadn’t truly thought about it until now. But, you shake your head with a dismissive wave. “Nah, but it’s fine. I’m used to him being a grump. Besides,” you add with a smile, “you lot make it worth coming around.”

But then Stone started to dig a little deeper as he leans back in his chair. “Did you think about what Thire said? About Fox not minding you hanging around?”

You bite your lip, remembering Thire’s words all too well. Now that did have you wondering for most of that night. For someone who always wanted you to go, he never actually told you to fully leave.

“Yeah, actually. It got me thinking… maybe he’s not as bothered by me as he pretends.” You pause, considering your next question. “Hey, have any of you actually seen him without his helmet?”

The three of them exchange glances before Thire nods, a mischievous grin tugging at his lips. “How do you think he downed that caf you brought him the other day?”

You lean back against the wall, arms crossed as you think it over but also a little smug knowing that Fox clearly liked your drink choice for him. “I always wondered what he looks like under there. Maybe he’s got some cool tattoos, or, like, bright red hair or something; to match the gear.”

Stone shrugs, pretending to be nonchalant. “Could do. But we’re not spilling anything.”

You narrow your eyes at them playfully, but before you can push further, you find yourself blurting out, “I mean, I bet he’s kinda cute.”

There’s a beat of silence before all three of them break into laughter. Hound gives you a teasing nudge. “So, you’ve got a crush on the boss now, huh?”

You wave them off, feeling your face flush. “No, I mean—well, no, yes, kinda? I don’t know!” You fumble with your words, realising you’ve put yourself in an awkward spot. You wouldn’t say it was much of a crush but you did admire him.

“It’s not like that. He’s just interesting, I guess. Annoying, but in a weird way, it’s kind of… cute?”

The boys exchange amused glances, and you’re about to defend yourself further when you notice all of their gazes suddenly lock onto something—or someone—behind you. The laughter dies down, and your stomach drops.

Before you can even turn around, a deep voice rumbles from directly behind you. “Did you just call me cute?”

You freeze, feeling your blood run cold. Slowly, you turn to face Fox, who’s standing there with his arms crossed, his helmeted visor trained directly on you. You can’t tell what expression he’s wearing underneath, but the deadpan delivery of his question makes you want to disappear into the nearest ventilation system.

“I—uh…” you stammer, utterly at a loss. “Well, you see—”

Thire, Stone, and Hound are barely holding in their snickers, clearly enjoying your discomfort. Fox’s posture remains unyielding as he waits for you to say something. Anything.

You finally manage a weak shrug. “I mean sure, why not?”

For a long moment, there’s nothing but silence, and you’re certain you’ll never live this down. But then, just when you think it couldn’t get worse, Fox turns his helmet slightly as if considering your words. “Interesting,” is all he says before he strides past you, not giving anything away.

The room erupts in laughter as soon as he’s out of earshot, leaving you standing there, cheeks burning, as Thire claps you on the back. “Well, if that’s not a confession, I don’t know what is.”

“I’m never going to hear the end of this, am I?”

Stone grins. “Nope. But hey, at least now you’ve got him wondering.”

You playfully slap Stone’s arm with the thick stack of flimsi you were holding. “You’re impossible, you know that?” you tease, but there’s a grin on your face despite your embarrassment.

Stone just chuckles, dodging away from your reach. “You make it too easy, kid.”

Shaking your head, you wave the guys off. “Okay, I’m leaving before I say anything else stupid. You’ll just have to survive without me for a bit.”

As you walk away, you can still hear their laughter, and although your cheeks are still warm, you can’t help but smile.

Over the next week or two, you notice that Fox isn’t in his office as much. You’re not one to pry, but eventually, Thire lets it slip that it’s the Supreme Chancellor who’s been keeping him busy, not the fact that he might be avoiding you. “He’s been running all over the place on Palpatine’s orders,” Thire had said. “Trust me, it’s not about feeling awkward with you around.”

You nod, but you can’t help the nagging thoughts that linger. Still, you push them aside, deciding it’s better not to dwell on it.

One afternoon, you arrive at the office, balancing a tray with the usual caf orders and some sweet treats. It’s become a bit of a weekly ritual now, something the guys seem to look forward to. But today, when you step inside, the office is eerily quiet—no Thire, no Stone, no Hound. And non-surprisingly, no Fox.

You frown, setting the tray down on the nearest desk. “Hello?” you call out, but the only response is the hum of the overhead lights.

Shrugging, you decide to leave everything on their desks for when they return. You place each clone’s drink down, making sure their reports are organised alongside them.

When you reach Fox’s desk, you pause. It’s a bit messier than usual, the clutter showing signs of someone who’s been overworked and stretched thin. Your brows furrow in concern as you instinctively start tidying up, sorting the files and stacking the more urgent ones on top.

As you organise his drawers, you’re about to close one when something catches your eye. An empty caf cup, tucked away almost like it’s been hidden. You pull it out and recognise it immediately—it’s the cup you gave Fox the other week, the one with the little smiley face you drew on the lid. Your heart skips a beat. He kept it.

For a moment, all you can do is stare at the cup, a small, unexpected warmth blooming in your chest. Maybe there’s more to his gruff exterior than you first thought. Maybe he does have a soft spot for you, even if he won’t admit it.

“Can I help you?”

You jump, nearly dropping the cup as you whirl around to face the door. There stands Fox, his arms tucked behind his back, his gaze unreadable behind his helmet.

“Fox—Commander!” you stammer, hastily shoving the cup back into the drawer and closing it. “I was just… fixing things.” Your voice trails off as you awkwardly step away from his desk, suddenly finding it difficult to meet his gaze.

He takes a slow, deliberate step forward, and you feel your pulse quicken. “I’ve been meaning to speak to you.”

“Oh! Sure, of course!” You’re flustered now, your mind racing. “Is it about the reports? Or maybe the supply request? Or—”

“No.”

You clamp your mouth shut, cheeks burning as you mentally curse yourself for rambling. You stand there in silence, waiting for him to continue, while he circles around you with the careful precision of someone used to keeping others off balance. His presence is commanding (oh the irony), making the room feel smaller as he closes the distance between you.

“I had overheard something the other day,” he says, his voice low, almost conversational. “You were wondering what I looked like. Wondering if I had tattoos, colorful hair…” He trails off, his tone giving nothing away.

“I—uh—well, I didn’t mean anything by it. I was just curious, you know? I hope you didn’t take offense, Commander. It wasn’t—”

He stops in front of you, so close now that you can see your own reflection in the dark visor of his helmet as you crane your neck to look at him. “Why not?” he asks, cutting off your nervous rambling. “Do you not want to know if I’m ‘cute’ or not?”

The words hang in the air between you, and you feel your breath catch in your throat. His tone isn’t mocking, but there’s a subtle challenge in his voice, as if daring you to admit something you haven’t even fully acknowledged to yourself.

You try to swallow the lump in your throat, searching for a response. “I—I mean… maybe?”

His head tilts slightly, as if studying you. “You know, I rarely remove my helmet. It’s part of who I am, part of the uniform. Most people never see what’s underneath.”

“I get it,” you say quickly, eager to reassure him. “It’s not like I need to know. You’re still you, helmet or not.”

But as you speak, he moves closer, his voice dropping to almost a whisper. “And yet, you’re curious.”

Your gaze flicks up to meet his visor, the tension thick enough to cut through. “Maybe a little,” you admit, barely above a whisper.

You think he’s about it leave, a small stagger in his step. But instead of stepping back as you expect, he reaches up and, with a slow and deliberate motion, removes his helmet.

Your breath catches in your throat. You were expecting him to look like the other clones but nothing prepared you for this.

His hair, salt and peppered with a few streaks of silver, is slightly messy but still shows a hint of soft curls. Framing his face in a way that’s both rugged and refined. But it’s his eyes that catch your immediate attention.

A deep, rich brown, just like his brothers but darkened by exhaustion. Yet somehow still smolder with an intensity that makes your heart stop. They’re striking, alive with an alluring warmth that makes it hard to look away.

You’re utterly speechless, barely registering that your mouth has gone dry. He’s not just cute; he’s absolutely gorgeous. His lips curve into a knowing smirk as he tilts his head at you, clearly gauging your reaction.

“So, tell me…” he drawls, his tone soft and low as he notices your gaze drifting to his lips, “how ‘cute’ am I?”

Your mouth opens, but the words you want to say get stuck somewhere in your throat. You feel a sudden heat rising to your cheeks and creeping down your neck, making you feel warm under the collar. For months, you had wondered what it would be like to be this close to him, to hear his voice without the filter of that helmet, to feel his presence in an almost tangible way. Now, with his breath fanning your face, it’s almost overwhelming.

“You’re… you’re…” You struggle to find the right words, but everything comes out in stutters as your brain short-circuits under the intensity of his gaze.

Fox leans in closer, his eyes never leaving yours, his lips still curved in that teasing smirk. “Mhmm? I’m what?” There’s a playful and teasing lilt in his voice as he inches nearer, clearly enjoying how flustered you’ve become.

Before you know it, you’ve backed up until you’re nearly pressed against the edge of his desk; close enough that you can feel the warmth radiating from him, and it’s impossible to think straight. Your pulse feels like it’s pounding in your ears. Especially as he leans in even further, the distance between you shrinking until it’s nearly nonexistent.

His breath is warm against your skin as he adds, “Come on, I’m waiting. You were so curious before. For someone so chatty, you have gone awfully quiet. Why’s that?”

Your mind is a whirlwind of thoughts, but the only thing you can focus on is how close he is, how those deep brown eyes are watching your every reaction, and how his lips look infuriatingly soft. Finally, you manage to stammer out a broken, barely coherent, “You’re… more than cute.”

Fox chuckles as he straightens slightly, clearly pleased with your reaction. “Good answer.”

You let out a nervous chuckle, brushing a hand through your hair, thinking this is the end of it. But he barely budges before asking, “Do you want to know what I think about you?”

Breath shaky, you avoid his eyes. “Let me guess… annoying… too talkative…”

“Distracting,” he cuts you off.

Before you can respond, his hands lift, gently cupping your face. You’re caught off guard as his thumbs brush tenderly over your cheeks. A soft gasp escapes your lips at the unexpected warmth of his touch, your eyes fluttering closed as you lean into it. His presence is all-consuming, his closeness dizzying as his nose lightly brushes against yours, sending sparks dancing down your spine.

His voice is low, rich with a sincerity that makes your heart race even faster. “I find you distracting. Beautiful and distracting.”

Before you can fully process his words, his lips capture yours in a kiss that’s impossibly gentle and utterly intoxicating.

It’s slow and unhurried, his lips moving against yours in a way that feels both tender and deliberate. Your eyes widen in surprise at first, hands raised but unsure where to place them.

Fox was kissing you. the Commander Fox was kissing you. You didn’t even know what this meant fully. Had he been harbouring feelings for you after all this time?

The initial shock soon melts away, your body relaxing into the kiss as your arms instinctively wrap around the back of his neck, pulling him closer. The feeling of the warmth of his mouth on yours, the soft press of his lips sending a sweet sent an addictive thrill through your veins. He’s steady and confident, guiding the kiss with a gentleness.

His hands remain on your face, anchoring you to the moment until one slides back to cradle the back of your head, his fingers threading through your hair that makes you gasp against his lips.

You can’t help but chase after his lips, the slow and tender rhythm of the kiss drawing you in deeper. He’s all you can think about—the taste of him, the feel of him, the way he’s holding you as though you’re something precious.

Fox finally pulls back just enough to look at you, his forehead resting gently against yours, his breath mingling with yours in the small space between you. His eyes, those deep, mesmerising brown orbs, search yours as if he’s looking for something—confirmation, maybe, or understanding. You’re not sure, but whatever he sees in your gaze seems to settle something inside him.

His thumb sweeps over your cheek again, a soft, almost absent-minded caress as he holds you there, still so close. “You have no idea how distracting you are,” he murmurs, his voice hushed.

You’re left breathless, your heart racing in your chest as you blink up at him, dazed by it all. “You… you kissed me,” you whisper, your body still flushed against his as you try to piece things together.

“I did,” he replies softly, his hands now moving to rest on your waist, grounding you in the moment. “Is it okay that I did?”

“I mean, yeah, I guess it’s just… I thought you didn’t like me.” You pull back slightly, leaning against the desk this time. He looks down at you, his gaze unexpectedly soft.

“I’ll admit I haven’t been the kindest to you,” he says, a touch of regret in his tone. “The lads gave me an earful the other day.”

“So, was it a guilt kind of kiss or…?” you mumble, sincerely hoping it wasn’t.

Fox’s eyes widen slightly, and he quickly shakes his head. “No, it’s nothing like that,” he exclaims, his voice firm but gentle. “I’m not great at showing how I feel, and hearing you call me ‘cute’… it pushed me in the right direction. Made me realise I couldn’t keep pretending I didn’t care.”

His sincerity catches you off guard. “Oh,” you say, your voice small but relieved.

He offers you a small smile, the kind that’s rare for him, and it makes your heart skip a beat. “So, would you consider going for drinks with me tonight?” he asks, his tone hopeful but tinged with the same guardedness that’s always been there.

The hesitation in his voice makes you understand how much this moment means to him, and you can’t help but smile back with a genuine, warm smile. “Yeah, I’d like that,” you reply softly.

Fox’s shoulders visibly relax, the tension you hadn’t even noticed finally easing as he nods. “Good,” he says, his voice low and a little rough around the edges. But there’s a warmth there now, something new that you hadn’t had the pleasure of seeing before. “I, uh, have to get back to the Chancellor. I knew the others wouldn’t be here today, and I know your routine, so I figured I’d have time to speak to you before heading back.”

You raise an eyebrow in surprise. “So, you’re not supposed to be here?”

“No, I’m not,” he admits with a somewhat sheepish smile, rubbing the back of his neck. “I may or may not have told the Chancellor I had an important matter to tend to.”

You laugh, shaking your head in disbelief. “I can’t believe you did that.”

Fox joins in with a chuckle, the sound rich and surprisingly pleasant, before he takes a final step toward you and presses a soft kiss to your cheek. “It was worth it,” he murmurs, his breath warm against your skin.

Your heart skips a beat as he pulls back, his gaze lingering on yours for a moment longer. “I’ll see you tonight?” he asks, a hint of uncertainty in his tone.

“Definitely.”

🌊 Masterlist is pinned 🌊

Tags: @lulalovez @the-bad-batch-baroness @photogirl894 @whore4rex @imperialclaw801 @temple-elder @mysticalgalaxysalad @yunggoblin @imalovernotahater @sithstrings @tech-aficionado @grizabellasolo @therealnekomari @tech-depression-inventory @brynhildrmimi @greaser-wolf @kaminocasey @marvel-starwars-nerd @ladytano420 @ladyzirkonia @thesith @raevulsix @cw80831 @knightprincess @crosshairlovebot @littlefeatherr @kaitou2417 @eyecandyeoz @jesseeka @theroguesully @ladykatakuri @arctrooper69 @padawancat97 @staycalmandhugaclone @ko-neko-san @echos-girlfriend @fiveshelmet @dangraccoon @plushymiku-blog @pb-jellybeans @nunanuggets @sleepycreativewriter @erellenora @zippingstars87 @ezras-left-thumb @the-rain-on-kamino @lamiliani @tentakelspektakel

“I thought I ordered no interruptions!”

technical devotion, part sixteen: old friends

a/n: this one's a bit longer since I had a good few things to fit in. also fair warning, the next few parts will have some serious angst and sad echo & kas

warnings: none :)

last chapter | next chapter | master list | join the taglist

Echo woke up to the sight of Kan sat at her desk, or more accurately, crouched. Her feet were on the seat of the chair, and she was curled up, her knees against her chest as she looked over something on her computer, her glasses hanging onto the tip of her nose.

She noticed him stir and looked over with a shy smile, “Morning”

“Morning” He replied, and she gulped at the gravelly sound of his voice.

“What time is it?”

“Around 0830, I grabbed you some caf” Kan nodded to the cup next to her on the desk.

Echo sat up with a small groan and suddenly felt very insecure about not wearing a shirt around Kan, who on the other hand was extremely flushed at seeing his exposed body.

“Here” She handed him the cup of caf, “It might be a little cold by now, but it's better than nothing, maybe”

“Thank you” He smiled gratefully and took a sip. “I didn't fully realise yesterday but…” He looked around the room, “It's really tidy in here”

“Well you said you prefer things to be organised” Kan shrugged, her eyes unmoving from the holoscreen of her computer, and his eyes snapped back to her.

“I didn't mean that you should tidy your space”

“Well, I wanted you to feel comfortable in here” Kan said simply.

Echo’s heart clenched more with every word she spoke, feeling so moved by her actions once again.

“That's very kind M'aira, but I already did”

Kan looked to him upon hearing the sincerity in his voice, her eyes trailing down his exposed chest and gulping again, “It was long overdue a clean anyway”

Echo just watched as her eyes flicked over the holoscreen. She seemed more on edge than she had been when he woke up, and he leaned forwards, “M'aira, is everything okay?”

Kan looked to him and her eyes dragged up and down his body again without her permission. This time Echo noticed.

“Yeah I'm fine” She looked back to the holoscreen.

“Sorry, am I making you uncomfortable?” Echo asked, his cheeks heating up with slight embarrassment as he grabbed his shirt from the newly cleaned floor.

“Um” Kan looked back at him again. She didn’t want him to think it was because of his cybernetic attachments, but she was floundering for something to say. “Not uncomfortable, just… distracted maybe” Her cheeks flushed deeply as she turned away again, and she missed the surprised look on Echo's face.

He tilted his head to the side, staring at the Mirialan woman, “Distracted?”

“Mhm” She said more squeakily than she had meant to, not daring to look at him.

A small smirk graced Echo's features as he pulled on his blacks and came to stand by her, leaning on the back of her chair, “What are you up to?”

“Trying to recover the files from this datacard” She pointed to the card that was stuck into her computer, the one he had retrieved yesterday and dropped on the floor of the command room.

He nodded, “And how long have you been… sitting like this?”

“All morning, why?”

Echo winced, “That's gotta be killing your back”

“It's fine” She rolled her shoulders backwards and he heard a few cracks.

“If you insist, sounds like you could use a massage though”

Kan chuckled, “Oh yeah? And who around here is gonna be the one to do it? You?” She smirked up at him, but her face fell instantly, and she turned back, “Don't answer that”

Echo's face contorted into one of equal confusion and amusement. He came to stand next to her and leaned his cybernetic hand on her desk, getting in her field of view, “What's got into you today?”

“I don't know what you're talking about” She replied quickly

“Hm” Echo hummed, a smirk stretching across his face

“How's your wound?” Kan asked, trying to change the subject.

Echo stood up straight again, “A little sore”

“Turn around” She demanded, her eyes still on the screen. Echo did as she said, and could feel her lift up his blacks, and peel back the bacta patch.

“Looks like it's healing well, stay still” Kan removed the patch and replaced it with fresh one. “There” She said and put the medkit away.

Echo turned back to her, but she was already looking at the screen again.

“M'aira” He spoke softly, making her look up to him. Using the nickname that only he had for her made her suddenly feel so oddly shy, “Thank you for letting me stay here”

“Anytime” She smiled, “Uh, I meant-”

“I know what you meant” He smiled back, “I'll see you around”

Echo brought his hand to her face and gently stoked her cheek with the back of his knuckles, before moving towards the door without another word.

“Bye” Kan said softly as he left, tracing her cheek where his touch still burned into her skin.

At lunch time, Kan was sat with Teddy, Howzer and Oscar, but she was once again gazing over at Echo.

She was a little perplexed by his simple action from earlier, but she was beginning to play with the idea that it wasn't entirely outside the realm of possibility that Echo might feel similar affections to her, for her. When she really thought about it, it didn't seem crazy, but the idea of facing up to it and telling him how she felt certainly did.

Howzer watched Kan for a moment, practically drooling over someone across the room, “Got your eye on someone there K?”

“What? No” Kan looked down, taking a forkful of food and almost choking on it with how quick she swallowed it.

“Come on, you're always looking over there, which one of them is it?” Howzer pressed, leaning in with a taunting smirk.

“You're making stuff up” Kan shook her head disapproving.

“I bet it's Rex” Oscar grinned.

“It's not Rex” Kan screwed up her face at the accusation.

“No I reckon it's Gregor” Howzer smirked.

“You guys clearly don't pay attention” Teddy shook his head at his brothers. Naturally, having talked to Kan about it, he already knew which one of them it was, but he wasn't above teasing her about it. “Echo wasn't in his bunk last night, but do you know who was?” He looked to Kan and she blushed deeply, her head tilting away from the clones.

“Oh my god, you're with Echo?” Oscar gasped, a little too loudly for Kan’s taste. She leaped forwards to try and stop him but she was far too late.

“I'm not with him” She whispered aggressively.

“But you like him, don't you?” Howzer smirked and Kan’s stern demeanour faltered a little.

“Maybe a bit, so what?”

“So…” Howzer drew out the word with an eye roll, “Why don't you make a move?”

“What? No! I don't even know if he likes me that way” Kan sat back, frowning.

“Be serious” Teddy deadpanned.

“Besides, this isn't exactly the place for it, we've all got a job to do here and I'm not compromising that for anyone” Kan reasoned, just saying anything to get them off her back, but the sentiment surprisingly rang true when she thought more about it.

“Yeah yeah, that's as good an excuse as any, but I think we all deserve a little happiness too” Howzer said more seriously.

“Whatever” Kan mumbled, not particularly wanting to continue the conversation.

“Ugh, I can't believe you're cheating on me” Oscar huffed with a pout.

“Please, I would never be yours in a million years” Kan rolled her eyes affectionately, the running joke only wearing her down a little. The others snickered, Howzer nudging his brother a little.

“That's just unnecessary” Oscar grumbled, playing with his food.

Kan sat on the edge of the landing platform outside of the base, taking in the last of the next evening's sun. The gentle breeze swayed her hair, making it tickle at her face.

“Mind if I join you?” A cheery voice called out to her, and she looked around to see Gregor striding over.

“Sure” She replied.

Gregor took his seat beside her and smiled, “You ready for this upcoming mission?”

“Yeah I can't wait” Kan breathed out, a grin taking over her face.

Gregor returned the expression, “Always so eager huh?”

Kan shrugged, “I like being out in the field, makes me feel useful”

“Yeah I get that” Gregor replied, “Echo's enroute with the clone by the way, he commed me a little bit ago, should be here any moment”

As if on cue, a ship descended past the clouds and made its way towards the landing platform where Kan and Gregor sat. They tracked it with their eyes, standing up when it landed.

Kan had tried to get Echo to stay, to let his wound heal, but it was difficult to win against the fierce loyalty he had to his brothers. She was glad to see him again now, of course, but the surprise that awaited her when the ship's door opened far exceeded her expectations. The unmistakable webbed scar that earned the man his name made recognition wash over her immediately.

Kan's body froze. Then, not a moment later, she was running. She ran towards the man she'd once proudly called her brother, her ori'vod. His eyes locked with hers and instantly went wide, almost convinced he was hallucinating. Kan stopped just in front of him, her sudden hesitancy obvious on her features.

“Don't worry” Spider tapped the side of his head where a thin scar could be seen through his closely cropped hair, “I'm not going to hurt you”

Kan felt completely overwhelmed by her emotions, and jumped at the clone, her arms wrapping tightly around his neck. Spider held her close, his strong grip keeping her off of the ground as he spun her around. He laughed deeply as he placed her down, and the familiar sound made her chest fill with warmth.

“I missed you vod'ika” He grinned, unable to hide his glee at seeing her once more.

“I missed you too” She smiled, looking over his face and taking in the ways he had changed.

The lines on his face were more defined than she remembered, and his eyes held a certain exhausted quality that told her he had not had an easy go of it, whatever he had been up to since she saw him last.

Spider’s grin faded, “I'm so sorry for everything, for what happened the last time I saw you”

“It's okay, I know it wasn't your fault” Kan sighed.

“I know but… I remember it all. I remember your face when we turned on you, when I… I don't think I'll ever forget”

Kan put her hand on his face, over his scar, “It's okay Spider, I forgive you”

The clone leaned into her touch, a contented sigh escaping him, “It's really good to see you Kan, I'm glad you're okay”

“Likewise” She smiled, then dropped her hand from his face. “Come” She ushered him over to meet Gregor, who had since been joined by Rex.

“You guys know each other?” Rex asked.

“Yeah, my vod'ika here was the best engineer in the 41st” Spider ruffled her hair.

“The only engineer in the 41st” Kan mumbled with a smirk, fixing her hair.

“Kan, you served in the GAR?” Gregor asked, eyebrows raised in surprise.

“Uh- yeah, sort of” She said sheepishly.

“That makes so much sense” Rex said thoughtfully, thinking about the way she went on in the command centre, “Why didn't you say anything?”

“Uh-” She looked to Echo who had joined the group silently, then to Spider, who's expression told her he knew exactly why, “Just not always something I want to remember, maybe”

“Right” Rex nodded, understanding all too well, “Well anyway, it's Spider right?”

As the other three clones found themselves in conversation, Kan looked to Echo again. He was grinding his jaw slightly, looking to the floor and not partaking in the conversation at all. She tried to catch his eye, but he was seemingly avoiding eye contact altogether, so instead she reached out. He was only stood next to her, so she lightly brushed his pinky finger with hers.

His head snapped up, eyes locking with hers, slightly widening when she locked her finger around his.

“Are you okay?” She asked in a whisper, and he just nodded, giving her a tight smile and looking away again, taking his hand away from hers and crossing his arms.

Kan continued to watch him, a frown creasing her brow. She wondered if something had happened on his trip, and broadly she just wondered why he was acting like this.

Echo knew he was being childish, acting up because he got his feelings hurt, but it was hard to stop himself. Seeing Kan so gleefully bound into Spiders arms had set his teeth on edge, and it didn't take a genius to guess why. He couldn't stop the feeling of jealousy that arose in his gut and spread throughout him like a wildfire.

It made sense, she hadn't seen Spider in a long time, but the idea of there now being someone here at the base that she was closer with than him, made him nervous. He had no right to be angry with her at all, he hadn't expressed his feelings for her so explicitly, though he'd think her a fool for not realising, everyone else had. For now, he'd rather be avoidant of the issue than talk about it, especially right now in front of everyone.

“This is your office?” Spider asked sceptically as Kan showed him inside.

“Yeah…?” Kan replied.

“Why's it so tidy in here? I've never known you be so tidy”

Kan chuckled nervously, “Heh, you know, just felt like cleaning”

Spider narrowed his eyes at her, “Hm, I don't buy it”

Kan rolled her eyes, taking a seat at her desk while Spider took the bunk. They spent the evening catching up, talking about their experiences in the war and beyond. Spider had defected from the Empire almost immediately after order 66, which had earned him a one way ticket straight to prison, where he had remained until Rex's people had managed to get him out. Kan told him of how she had been working with Senator Organa until she'd heard of the base here, and told him of the missions she had done since. Spider couldn't help but notice how often Echo's name came up.

“Ah, okay” Spider nodded slowly, a wide grin stretching across his face, “I get it”

“Get what?” Kan asked, her head cocked in confusion.

“You and this Echo guy” He said, an eyebrow raising.

“What about us?” Kan kept her voice flat, but her blushing cheeks betrayed her.

“Oh come on, there's obviously something going on”

“There isn't”

“Right, but I know you wish there was” He replied in a teasing voice.

“I'm not talking to you about this” Kan rolled her eyes affectionately, standing up and moving towards the door.

“I'll get it out of you one of these days” He grinned, poking her in the abdomen as she opened the door.

Stood just outside as the door zipped open, was Echo himself, his hand raised in a fist as if he was about to knock.

“Ah, speak of the devil” Spider grinned, earning an unimpressed look and sharp elbow to the ribs from Kan.

Echo looked minorly alarmed, but chose just to ignore it, “Sorry, I didn't realise you had compa-”

“Spider was just leaving” Kan interrupted him, hoping to get him to stay before he slunk off again.

Spider looked between Kan and Echo with a smirk, “I'll leave you guys to it then”

Kan rolled her eyes at the clone who seemed intent on embarrassing her, then turned to Echo with an adoring smile, “Do you want to come in?”

“If that's alright” He said slightly hesitantly.

“Of course it is” Kan stepped out of the way and he entered, sitting on the bed where Spider had been. He noted the warmth beneath him as he sat and really hoped it was just from one person having been in the spot. He immediately banished that thought from his head, but Kan was intrigued and concerned by his silence.

“Did you have something to say or…?”

“No I just came to see you” He spoke, and the atmosphere of the room was suddenly overwhelmingly awkward. Echo couldn't think of what to say. Conversation usually flowed naturally between the two of them, and if it didn't then the silences certainly weren't as awkward as this.

“Is everything okay?” Kan asked quietly, “You seemed a bit out of it when you got back”

“Yeah I'm fine” He said dismissively, and visibly cringed when it became even more awkward. “So… Spider was a good friend of yours?” He tried making conversation but he just felt that he sounded ridiculous.

“Uh, yeah. He was a Lieutenant in the 41st, I was closer to him than anyone else probably. I was only young when I joined, so he kinda looked after me a bit”

“Right” Echo nodded and looked down to his lap. He didn’t want to feel jealous, and he felt ridiculous for letting those kind of thoughts fester in his mind. He certainly wasn't going to say anything about it, and luckily Kan changed the subject.

“How's your blaster wound?” She sat beside him on the bed.

“Fine”

“Can I take a look?”

Echo looked up at her beside him. He hesitated for a moment, but ultimately conceded in a matter of seconds, “Sure”

Kan carefully lifted up his top and peeled back the bandage just a bit to get a look at it. Echo couldn't help but shiver at the gentle touches of her soft hands on his back.

“It's healing up nicely” She confirmed as she put the bandage back in its place and pulled down his top.

“Thanks to you” Echo said pointedly.

“I didn't do much” Kan chuckled, looking up into his eyes as he turned to face her. There was an undeniable sadness, almost a longing look in them.

“Echo what's the matter?” She whispered, her brows pinched in concern.

“It's nothing, don't worry about it” He gave her an ingenuine tight smile for the second time today, and it only made her frown.

“Echo, please,” She urged, her grip on his arm tightening just a bit.

“I'm okay, just tired” He shrugged, looking away so he wouldn't fall for the trap that was Kan’s deep green eyes.

“Do you want to stay here again?”

“No that's okay, you have it” He stood up and Kan’s hand fell from his arm.

Kan bit her lip, her confidence faltering despite her next words “What if I want you to stay here?”

Echo looked down at her but she wasn’t meeting his gaze. She had said it so quietly that he wasn’t entirely sure he had heard her correctly, “What was that?”

“Uh- You dont have to, it's okay, just-” She looked up at him finally and his expression almost made her melt. He was looking at her so adoringly, his eyes crinkling with a light smile.

“I can stay if you want me to”

Kan began rambling, “If you want, just because of your wounds and because you're tired and-”

“You don't need to explain M'aira, I'd like to stay” He said gently, taking a step towards her.

Kan smiled shyly, “Okay, I've got a few things to go over in command but I'll be back soon” She spoke, standing up. She found herself almost chest to chest with her favourite clone, and it was almost too much to handle.

“Alright, I'll see you in a bit then” Echo spoke quietly, biting back the grin that threatened to take over his face.

Kan nodded, letting her eyes drift to his lips for just a second before she immediately left the room.

Echo sighed as he watched her go. Sometimes it really felt like something was happening between them, but then he'd be reminded of how kind she was with everyone, how affectionate, and that put it in perspective.

He knew they had a bond, it was unquestionable at this point. They understood each other in a way that didn't entirely make sense to him, or at least, he couldn't figure out why it was Kan specifically that made him feel like this. It was just inherent in some way. He only hoped that he was that person for Kan.

When Kan returned almost two hours later, the lights were out and Echo was tucked up against the wall in her bunk, seemingly asleep, and shirtless. The covers pooled at his waist, exposing his toned back for her to see in all its glory. She could easily admit it was a sight she wouldn't mind seeing every night.

She quietly got changed into her sleep clothes, an oversized t-shirt and loose trousers, hoping not to wake him in the process. She slowly slid into the bed behind him, and he shifted, a small mumbled noise signifying him having woken up.

“You've been gone a long time” He said sleepily, making Kan smile at the frankly adorable sound of it.

“I had to show Spider to the barracks, we just chatted for a little while”

Echo came out with what sounded like an unsatisfied grunt, and Kan frowned slightly as she settled beside him.

“What is it?”

“Do you like him?” Echo mumbled, and Kan couldn't help but laugh.

“I'm not even going to dignify that with an answer” She shook her head slightly.

“Does that mean yes?”

“Echo” She said amusedly, placing a hand on his bare back and rubbing her thumb over his skin gently, “You do realise that you're the one sleeping in my bed tonight, right?”

She felt a small chuckle rumble through him, “Yes, I realise”

Kan chuckled as well, and then her mind brought forth how he had acted when him and Spider had arrived at the base, “Is that what you were upset about earlier?”

Echo hesitated for a moment, “Maybe”

Kan laughed heartily, and slid her hand around his abdomen and pulled herself into his back, slotting their bodies together, “You're ridiculous”

Echo placed his hand over Kan’s and intertwined his fingers with hers. He relished in the warmth of her embrace, and everything just felt right in the galaxy in that moment. There was no Empire, no need for rebellion, there was just him and Kan, pressed against each other and fitting together as if this was why they were made.

There was so much unsaid between them, and both of them knew it, but for right now, they'd just enjoy the moment. They didn't know what was to come, and unbeknownst to them, this was going to be as good as it got for a long time.

technical devotion, part twelve: handy

content warnings: order 66 mentioned, echo being sexy (what's new)

last chapter | next chapter | master list | join the taglist

Echo awoke to the sound of clinking of dishes in the kitchen as he often did, though this time he felt more at peace.

He cracked open one eye and sighed, finding that Kan had already left his bed. He knew that much already, the sounds that had woken him making it obvious, but he was still disappointed nonetheless. He rolled over onto his front and took a deep breath, breathing in the comfort of the bed for one more moment before he got up. He could still smell Kan’s scent lingering on the pillow she had slept on, and his heart clenched. He couldn’t exactly place what it was, perhaps a mix of fried wires and something else, but it was undeniably her.

Echo rose from his bed, and stumbled into the kitchen to find Kan curled up in her usual seat, a cup of caf in one hand and datapad in the other. She looked up to him as he entered, a smile quirking the edges of her lips.

“Morning”

“Morning” Echo returned the smile, moving to get himself a cup of caf. He turned away from her as his thoughts from last night consumed him.

Before he fell asleep, the only thing he could think of, with Kan pressed up against him, was how much he wanted to get the hand attachment that she had drawn up before. He chewed on his bottom lip as he thought on how to bring it up, but came to the conclusion that there was really no way to ask without just coming out and saying it. He turned around and watched Kan for a moment as she scrolled through her datapad. She was usually already stuck into her work by this time, and Echo wondered if her sleep had been better than usual, as his had.

“Kandam'aira” He got her attention with the use of her full name, and she looked up from her datapad, a soft smile gracing her features as she waited patiently for him to talk. “I was wondering…” He trailed off for a moment, “Do you still have the plans for that arm attachment?”

Kan’s eyes lit up, and she placed her caf down on the table as she nodded quickly.

“Would you… Would you make it for me?” He asked hesitantly.

“I'd love to! Thank you Echo” She spoke excitedly, and Echo laughed at her eagerness.

“I think I'm the one that should be thanking you” He raised an eyebrow at her but she waved him off.

“Nonsense” She stood from her chair and dropped her datapad onto the table, “I'm going to buy the parts now”

Kan grabbed her poncho and rushed to the door, but Echo quickly strode after her, calling for her to wait. She turned and saw Echo rummaging around in his pockets, pulling out some credits.

“I've got credits” She smiled sweetly, turned and opened the door, but Echo put his arm in the way, blocking the exit.

“Take them, please”

Kan looked up at him, and her breath caught in her throat. She admired the way that the early morning sun hit his skin, carving out his cheekbones and sharp jaw, the warmth bringing out the honey tones in his soft brown eyes. She felt that he always looked at her with such purpose, a purpose which, maddeningly, eluded her. Sometimes it felt like she knew exactly what he was thinking, reacting to his actions and comments in the correct manner, but other times, she had no idea at all. This was one of those times. The emotion in his eyes was so loud, and yet, she couldn’t tell what it was.

“Alright” She smiled, and took the credits from his hand.

She slipped on her poncho as she stepped out into the morning breeze, smiling back at Echo. He watched her go with hurried steps and smiled fondly, biting the inside of his cheek to stop it from overtaking his whole face.

“Can I ask what changed your mind?” Kan asked Echo as she worked on his new arm that evening.

Echo knew he couldn’t tell Kan the real reason, and he suddenly felt ridiculous for even thinking it himself.

When he didn't reply, Kan looked up to see Echo staring at her, “What?”

He shook his head to refocus and shrugged, “I guess I figured that it would come in handy, like you said”

Kan nodded and resumed working, “I've been going over the design the whole time, just in case you decided you wanted it, I wanted to have figured it out already”

Echo's heart swelled, but he kept his voice plain as he asked “Have you made other cybernetics before?”

“Yeah, my mother has a cybernetic leg, I helped design it with my father when I was thirteen” Kan replied.

“Thirteen?” Echo said in surprise.

“Yeah” Kan chuckled a little, “I've done a few others here and there as well, a couple shoulders, an eye, but never an arm before now”

“Well, I'm honoured” Echo smiled sincerely and she looked up to him again.

“Wait til I've done it before you say that” She chuckled, “It'll only take me another two rotations, I think”

“I hope you're accounting for sleep in that calculation” He said knowingly.

“Alright, three rotations then” She grinned at him.

As they settled into silence, both Kan and Echo’s thoughts dwelled on the previous night.

“Do you have a lot of nightmares?” Echo asked, unable to stop himself.

Kan sighed a little, “Not so much anymore, but still every so often”

Echo nodded in understanding, “Me too” He said quietly, pausing before his next question, “What are they about?”

“Um, sometimes it's my time being tort- Uh, questioned by the Separatists, sometimes it's… order 66”

Echo sat forward in his seat, his eyes wide and searching hers “You were there for order 66?”

Kan looked away from his sudden intense stare, “Yeah, I was super confused, I tried to stop the clones but them um-” She gulped, “They fired on me instead, for being a ‘traitor’ supposedly”

Echo’s heart broke at her expression, and overwhelming sadness taking over her features.

“I ran away. I should've stood my ground and fought back but I couldn't- I couldn't hurt them, they were my friends”

“I'm so sorry Kandam'aira” Echo said quietly, wanting to reach out and comfort her.

Kan’s heart skipped a beat, still not used to hearing her full name “It's not your fault, you know that”

“I know but… I'm just… I'm sorry you had to go through that”

“I can't imagine it was any more fun for you” Kan said pointedly.

“My chip didn't activate"

“It didn't?”

Echo shook his head, “I guess I have the Separatists to thank for that”

It went quiet again for a moment, the two of them just looking at each other with a deep understanding of the other’s experience.

“What are your nightmares about?” Kan asked him softly.

Echo answered without hesitation, trusting her implicitly, “Flashes of what the Techno Union did to me, I don't really remember any of it apart from in my dreams”

Kan just nodded, she had assumed that might be the case.

“Well, I'm going to hit the hay” Echo stood up and walked over to his door. He desperately wanted to ask her to stay with him again, but held himself back for fear that it was only a one time thing to Kan.

“I'm just going to spend a little longer on this” Kan gestured to her work.

“Alright, make sure you get some sleep” He gave her a mockingly stern look.

“I will” She smiled, “Goodnight Echo”

“Goodnight M'aira”

Kan looked at him in surprise as his eyes went wide, “Uh, sorry, I mean… Kandam'aira” He finished quietly.

She smiled at him once more, “No, I like it” She said thoughtfully.

Echo breathed out, his own smile returning, “Alright then, goodnight M'aira”

Kan had to bite back the grin threatening to take over her face as she watched him retire to his room.

Echo couldn't sleep straight away, and laid awake just staring up at the ceiling. He couldn't get Kan out of his mind, partly because he could hear the feint sounds of her tinkering in the kitchen, making something for him, and also because her scent was completely enveloping him. It was intoxicating, he couldn't think about anything else. It occurred to him then that Kan had become an integral part of his life, and he could no longer imagine it without her in.

His heart almost hurt at the realisation. There was no guarantee that she would stay in it for any great length.

He was pulled from self-concious thoughts as he heard the scrape of a chair in the kitchen. He heard Kan's footsteps, walking up to his door and then stopping. He held his breath. He then heard Kan sigh and move away, trudging up the stairs to her own room.

Echo spent the rest of the night thinking of ways that he could keep Kan around for longer.

The next few days were quite quiet.

As they were waiting on Rex to get back to them, both Kan and Echo mostly remained at the house. Echo had taken to exercising just outside the house to occupy his time, which only distracted Kan.

She had a perfect view of the tree where he was doing pull ups. With his scomp, he only had one hand to pull up with, but he was still doing it as if it was easy. Kan simply couldn't look away, especially as he was only wearing a vest. She watched as his muscles stretched and contracted, in complete awe and a feeling she understood all too well settled in the bottom of her stomach. She had to close the curtain so she could get on with her work with no distractions.

She knew that Echo was a soldier, an ARC trooper no less, so it shouldn't be surprising to her that he was incredibly fit, but it was still a lot to actually see in action. He usually looked just lean, but when he was actually using his muscles, it sure didn't seem that way anymore. When he would come inside, body glistening with sweat and chest heaving from exertion, Kan became extremely flustered, and found herself unable to engage in conversation with him until he changed.

Kan found herself completely ridiculous. She should be able to control herself, her thoughts, but she knew that moments of rationality when it came to how she felt about Echo were few and far between.

Echo was completely unaware that he was driving Kan crazy, and continued with his workouts for the next few days. He noticed that Kan had started closing the curtains, but it didn't occur to him that it was linked. He asked her about it, but she didn't really seem to have a reason other than ‘Why not?’. He didn't press.

In those few days, Kan had managed to finished Echo's new scomp attatchment. She ventured outside with a wide grin, and found him doing one arm push ups.

“Echo” She gained his attention, and he looked up as he pushed himself from the ground, coming to kneel as she approached.

“Whats up?” He asked, his voice breathy as he breathed deeply.

“I finished it” She held out the attachment proudly, pushing down any unwanted thoughts about the way he looked right now. Echo stood up with an apprehensive smile, and Kan stepped forward, “May I?”

Echo nodded and Kan took his scomp in her hand and positioned the attachment at the end, sliding it on with ease. She had measured the size before she began so it would fit perfectly, and it did.

“I made it so that you can just twist this part back and use the scomp, rather than having to take it off all the time, and that disengages the hand so it won't feel weird when you do it. It also has this button here, which turns on the signal disruptor, and then this is the comm here” She explained, and Echo watched her hands work around his new arm, his heart beating at an elevated pace.

“You really think of everything huh?” He grinned, looking up at her, his head still tilted to the attatchment.

Kan looked up to his boyish expression and tried to fight the blush creeping up her neck. “I try” She said sheepishly, stepping back a little, “How does it feel”

Echo tried to give his new fingers an experimental wiggle, and the first two twitched slightly. They both smiled excitedly at one another.

“It will take a little while to get acclimatised” She informed him and he tried again, getting a little more movement, “Can you feel anything yet?”

“Uh…” He couldn't really tell too much, but reached out his arm, “Give me your hand”

Kan hesitated, but placed her hand in his new cybernetic one. It was cold and smooth.

Echo smiled a little, “I can feel something I think”

“Good” Kan smiled, gripping his hand a little tighter, “It will be like your legs I imagine, not fully the same amount of feeling but still, some semblance of it”

Echo nodded and tried to squeeze Kan’s hand, not getting much strength behind it, but Kan could feel him trying, and that was enough to make her stomach to fill with butterflies.

“Thank you so much M'aira” He suddenly said very seriously, and Kan dragged her eyes back to his to see them swimming with something she couldn't define. This was one of those times where she didn't know what to say.

“It's no problem, I hope it works well for you” Kan smiled. It was nice to have her work appreciated at the very least.

“I'm sure it will” He smiled, giving another test squeeze to her hand, this one stronger than the last.

Kan gasped at the feeling, and Echo's eyebrows raised a little, not expecting her to react in such a way.

“I’m sorry, I-”

“Don't be” She smiled tightly and took back her hand, “It's nice. I mean, it's good to know it's working, you know?”

Echo tilted his head a little, watching her nervously stumble through her words, “Alright, I'll keep testing it"

“Yeah cool” Kan rubbed her neck nervously, “Um, you can always try on my hand again if you want”

Echo couldn't hold back his smirk, “I think I'll take you up on that”

Kan just gulped and turned back towards the house without saying anything, and Echo laughed to himself. Kan had been extremely skittish the past few days. He had no idea why, but he couldn't deny he found her fidgeting to be extremely cute.