#im sure im not the only one who noticed this in tbb but im not very. in the fandom loop shall we say.

[jetii]

i loveeeeeee ur writing. its like a masterpiece. mwah. i was wondering if you could do an angsty fic with the prompt "I loved you!" with any clone boy you want (maybe crosshair 👀) I was listening to Cardigan by taylor swift and it lowkey set the mood.

sorry if the request is very vague cause i never watched bad batch yet im a huge simp 🥲 so do whatever you want.

I know you got like a tonnnn on your plate and i lowkey feel bad requesting but you write really good so take ur time to take care of yourself.

hiiiii anon. if you are who i think you are, then you'll have already been watching TBB by now, but if you're not, what are you doing!! /affectionate

after listening to the song (i have a sister who is a swiftie but alas i am not) and thinking harder about your prompt, i was inspired to write this for Echo, so i hope that's okay!

The Way Back

Pairing: Echo x fem!Reader

Words: 9,621

Tags/Warnings: angst with a happy ending, hurt/comfort, established relationship, dramatic reunion, reader is a lawyer, Tech is a good brother, Echo needs a hug, allusion to panic attacks/alcoholism/depression

Summary: Echo always knew you were it for him, but the idea of seeing you again after so much has changed is more than he can take. Until one day he finds himself outside of your apartment, and the choice is made for him.

Previous Work | Next Work | Masterlist

Echo doesn’t leave the ship when it docks on Coruscant.

His eyes are locked on the city-planet, lit up like a giant firefly, watching the endless stream of ships coming in and out. Their trails of light make the whole thing seem dreamlike, surreal. Even that feels like too much, reminds him too much of the view from your apartment, and he tries to close his eyes, but his eyelids are made of glass.

The first time he saw Coruscant, there had been a moment of... what, awe? Terror? Something. Something big, anyway. He didn't understand then that you can have a feeling be a lot of things. He'd looked down on the galaxy's center of power and felt something bigger than he could possibly contain. Now, sitting alone on the Marauder with only the whirr of the vents for company, he thinks maybe the feeling was dread.

The first time they came back here after Echo joined the Batch, the others didn’t notice his unease. Or at least they didn't mention it. It was an adjustment period for everyone, Echo most of all, and his brothers gave him space to do things on his own terms, even when it meant he did nothing at all.

This time, it's different. He can tell they've noticed how he's been acting, and they're not just leaving him alone anymore. He can tell, because they're giving him looks. The kind of looks that ask questions he doesn't have answers for. They make excuses to stick close by, like they're afraid he might take off or that he's going to break down and have another panic attack. It makes him want to hide even more.

He's not going to, though. It's not so bad. Coruscant has always been a source of good memories for Echo, despite what happened. The sights, the sounds, the tastes — they're all still the same. He'd spent a long time on Coruscant before the Citadel happened, and he'd gotten used to it, the way the air smells, the feel of the rain against his skin. He had a whole life here. He was happy.

It's not so bad. He just... doesn't feel like going out, is all.

He knows he’s being stupid. He knows that he should be out there, enjoying what little downtime they’re afforded. Instead, he's on the ship, trying not to stare out the windows, trying to pretend that he isn't bothered by the thought of leaving, of the possibility of running into you again, however small that may be.

The worst part is that he's not sure why.

It's not that he doesn't want to see you. On the contrary, he does. More than anything. He hasn't stopped thinking about you, wondering if you're okay, if you’re happy, if you've thought of him. He's kept his ears open, and has managed to overhear a few stories here and there about you. The most recent had been about you winning a case for a group of Houk refugees who had been seeking asylum in the city, a big deal for a young lawyer to handle.

It had made him smile, a real, genuine smile, the kind he rarely got to have.

But there's something about seeing you again, about you seeing him that makes him hesitate, makes his stomach turn over and his throat tighten. Maybe it's because he doesn't want to know for certain, doesn't want to see that you're happy, that you've moved on, that you're doing well without him.

Maybe it's because he doesn't trust himself. He's different now, he knows that. He's different, and so are you. He doesn't know if he can face you, doesn't know if he'll be able to handle whatever is waiting for him. 

When he woke up in Rex’s arms and realized the galaxy had kept moving without him, he hadn’t thought much of it, solely focused on survival, on the fact that he was alive at all. He hadn't cared about what he'd missed, who he'd left behind. He hadn't known how much time had passed, and the thought that he was a dead man hadn't even crossed his mind. He hadn't thought about you, hadn't given himself the time or space to consider the consequences. You'd been the furthest thing from his mind. He'd had to keep fighting, to keep living. But once he had the time to think about it, to regret, well, it was...

It's different.

There's no other word for it. Everything is different.

Echo has had time, too much time, to think about you, to regret losing you. It's kept him up late into the night cycle, lying in bed, staring up at the ceiling, unable to sleep, thoughts running a mile a minute.

You'd been a good person, a better one than he could ever hope to be, and he had loved you, and then he had died.

Or, he had thought he'd died. Turns out he hadn't. That had been the only mercy.

You'd been the first and only person in his entire life to see him as something other than a soldier, and he'd loved you for it. You'd seen him, really seen him, and you hadn't run. He had been terrified by that, but it had also been the best feeling in the world. And he had taken advantage of it. He had let you in, he had let himself fall in love, and then he had died.

It's different, now. He's different. The galaxy's moved on, and he's a ghost, and he's scared. He doesn't know how to face you, doesn't know if he can. So when they’d made it out of Skako Minor and Rex had asked if he wanted to comm you, he’d said no. And he's been saying no every time since.

A small voice inside his head, one that sounds a lot like Fives, tells him that's bullshit.

His brother would have called him out on his cowardice, and Echo thinks that's a fair assessment. But even though he misses you and wants nothing more than to hear your voice, it's better this way. It's better if you don't see him like this, if you never find out the truth. The thought of you seeing him, of you seeing what's left of the man you knew, is too much. He can't do that to you.

It's better if you never see him again. It's better if you have closure, if you've moved on and don't think about him anymore.

You deserve more. You deserve someone who hasn't lost as much as he has, someone who you won't have to worry about, someone who will be there for you.

Someone who can give you the life you want.

Echo knows he can't do that. And maybe if he says that enough times, he'll finally believe it.

“Why are you still here?”

The sound of Tech’s voice snaps him out of his thoughts. He turns and finds his brother watching him from the doorway, an expression of vague curiosity on his face, a soldering iron twirling absently in his hand.

Echo shrugs.

Tech gives a short, impatient huff.

"That is not an answer," he says, crossing his arms and looking pointedly at Echo.

"I was just..." He trails off. Just what? Just looking out the window and moping? He sighs. "Nevermind."

Tech steps into the cockpit, looking unconvinced. Echo can tell he has a question on the tip of his tongue, can see him considering his options. Tech is not the most tactful person in the galaxy, and Echo isn't really in the mood to hear his thoughts, not when they're bound to be blunt. But instead of asking, his brother simply takes his seat beside him and begins tinkering with the dashboard, checking the systems.

The two of them are quiet for a moment, the only sound the clinking of the tools. Then Tech pauses and looks at Echo. 

Echo fidgets under his brother's gaze. "What?"

Tech doesn't respond right away, taking a second to look Echo over. His eyes flicker around the cockpit, as if the gauges and switchboards will give him some kind of clue, before coming back to his brother.

"There is nothing wrong with the ship," he says.

"Okay," Echo says, confused. "So?"

"So," Tech continues, "there is no reason for you to be here. We are scheduled to remain docked until 600 hours, and you have the day off. You could be anywhere."

Echo rolls his eyes, a prickle of annoyance flaring in his chest. "Yeah, well, I'm here, aren't I?"

"Yes, you are," Tech agrees. There's a moment where he considers something, and then he speaks again, "If I may offer a suggestion?"

"Go for it," Echo grumbles, not bothering to look at him.

"Go for a walk."

"A walk?"

"Yes. Physical activity is proven to improve mood and mental health. And you could do with the fresh air."

Echo frowns. "What's that supposed to mean?"

"It means," Tech says, not even pausing in his work, "that you've been spending an inordinate amount of time locked away in here."

"I'm not locked away," Echo protests.

"No, I suppose not. But you have not been yourself since we arrived."

Echo doesn't have an answer for that.

"Go for a walk," Tech repeats, and this time he does stop and turn to Echo. He leans back in his chair and removes his goggles, letting them rest on his forehead, and the intensity in his gaze makes Echo squirm a bit.

"Where?"

Tech gestures towards the open space in front of them, the sprawling metropolis. "There are a number of options available, I'm sure. There are parks, shopping districts, museums, restaurants..." He ticks the ideas off on his fingers one by one, and then points back to Echo. "Perhaps you should find out for yourself."

Echo snorts. "Thanks, but no thanks."

"Why not?"

"Because I don't want to," he says, the words coming out more defensively than he intended. "I'd rather just stay here."

"Yes, I can see that," Tech says dryly, and Echo gets the distinct impression that his brother is making fun of him.

He scowls.

Tech is undeterred. "But I don't think that is what you actually want to do."

Echo's mouth opens to argue, but then closes it just as quickly. He's not sure what to say, not sure if he wants to say anything. Tech isn't wrong. He doesn't really want to stay on the ship, not truly. The idea of getting out and going somewhere is tempting, and if he's being honest with himself, the last thing he wants to do is sit here, stewing in his thoughts alone. Or worse, with Tech.

And he does need to stretch his legs.

He looks out the window again, taking in the sight of the planet before him. He's not sure what's going to happen once they get the signal for the next job, if they'll ever be back. He might never have this opportunity again.

He takes a breath.

"Fine," he says, throwing his hands up in the air. "You win."

Tech's lips twitch, a barely contained smile. "As I usually do."

Echo shakes his head, a grin playing on his lips. He starts to make his way towards the door, and stops beside his brother.

"Thanks," he says, placing a hand on Tech's shoulder.

"You are welcome," Tech nods. “Try to be back by 0600 hours. If you are late, we will leave without you.

Echo snorts. "I wouldn't expect anything less."

He leaves Tech there and heads to the ramp. His steps slow as he reaches the bottom, but he forces himself forward, out into the bright sunlight and fresh air.

Echo spends the next few hours wandering around Coruscant, letting his feet guide him.

He goes wherever the crowds take him, stopping at whatever catches his interest. It's nice, being able to let his mind go blank and not have to worry about where he's going. He doesn't have to think about anything, doesn't have to consider the consequences, or the risks.

He just exists.

And it feels good.

When he eventually decides to turn back, he's a bit surprised at how far he's come. He hadn't intended to venture so deep into the city, had just wanted a walk to clear his head. But the area he's found himself in is one he recognizes.

Your apartment is nearby.

Echo can feel his pulse start to quicken, his palm begins to sweat, and he stops in the middle of the walkway.

The sun has begun to set, and the crowds are thinning. You’ll be on your way home from work soon, if you weren’t already. His brain helpfully supplies the route you would take, and his eyes flit up towards the skyline. He can't see your building, but he knows it's there, not far away.

The knowledge sits heavy in his chest.

No, he tells himself, shaking his head. I shouldn't.

He has no way of knowing if you're even home. For all he knows, you could be busy, out with friends or maybe on a date.

Don't, his mind warns him. She's moved on. You shouldn't.

He hasn't been to your apartment since the morning he left. The memory is a sharp one, a jagged knife cutting through the fog of his past. He remembers the way your bed had felt, the warmth of your body, the sound of your breathing as you slept tucked against him.

It had been so peaceful.

It had been so easy to leave.

His mind starts to replay those moments, the goodbye you had given him, and it's like a punch to the gut. He knows how much you care about him, knows that if you were to see him again, that wouldn't have changed. You wouldn't turn him away.

The night before, you talked for hours. Your conversation had been punctuated with kisses and caresses, laughter and confessions. You told him how much you wanted him to stay, how much you wished he didn't have to leave, how much you wished things could be different. You talked about what the future might hold for the two of you, and he remembers how that felt, how it made him believe, even for just a moment, that things would work out.

They didn't, of course.

But Echo is still here, and so are you, and he can't help but think that maybe, just maybe, the galaxy might be giving him a second chance.

He takes a deep breath.

There's no harm in taking a detour, he thinks.

He walks, following the familiar path, trying not to think too hard about what he's doing.

It doesn't take him long to reach the building. He hesitates in front of it, looking up at the facade. It looks just as it did the last time he was here. Same lobby, same doorman, same lift. They haven’t even fixed the panel that's been sticking, and it takes a good deal of force for him to press the button for your floor.

The doors close, and he stares at his reflection, at the dark circles under his eyes, the scruff that has accumulated on his cheeks and chin, the lines that have appeared at the corners of his eyes and across his forehead. And then his gaze wanders to the ports and implants, the reminder of what was taken from him and what he was left with. He traces the outline of one with his thumb, remembering how he used to be.

He looks tired.

What are you doing? He asks himself.

He's not sure what he's expecting, doesn't have a plan for what will happen. All he knows is that he can't get the image of you out of his head. He imagines you coming home from work, and him being there, waiting. Would you be surprised? Happy? What would you say? What would he say?

Echo sighs.

He's an idiot.

The lift dings, and the doors slide open.

Your apartment is halfway down the hall, and Echo's stomach clenches with each step he takes. He reaches it and stands outside for a minute, running his fingers over the metal door, staring at the numbers painted on the surface.

It's just a door, he tells himself. Nothing special. Just a door.

His hand moves on its own, hovering over the bell. He waits, listens. There's no sound coming from inside, no music, no voices. Maybe you're not home yet.

Or maybe you're out. Maybe you're not alone.

He rings the bell and holds his breath, counting the seconds.

One. Two. Three. Four.

Nothing.

Echo rings again, this time holding the button down for a few extra seconds, listening for any sign of movement.

There's nothing.

The knot in his stomach tightens, and he releases the button, letting out the breath he'd been holding. He runs a hand over his face, feeling the heat of his skin through his glove. He's sweating.

Well, that's it, then.

He'd thought he was prepared for this possibility, but hearing the silence behind the door and knowing that you aren't home has shaken him more than he anticipated.

Maybe this is for the best, he thinks. It's better this way. Safer.

But the disappointment is palpable.

He's not sure what to do. He considers waiting a little longer, just to make sure, but the more he thinks about it, the more stupid it seems. He doesn't belong here anymore. He shouldn't be here, standing outside your door, hoping for something that won't happen.

He needs to go.

As Echo turns away from the door, a voice calls out behind him.

"Can I help you?"

For half a second, he's sure he imagined it, sure that it's just his brain playing tricks on him, taunting him. But then the voice speaks again.

"Are you looking for someone?"

Echo spins around, heart leaping into his throat, and there you are.

Standing there, a few paces away, is the woman he's been dreaming about, the one he's thought about every day, the one he's missed so much that it hurts.

Your hair is different, longer than he's ever seen it, pulled away from your face. You're wearing a dress, something he's only seen a handful of times, and your makeup is impeccable, but he can still see the hint of tiredness behind your eyes. He wonders how many hours you've put in at work this week, how much you've had to fight for your clients.

But the most noticeable change is that you're looking at him. Your datapad is held loosely in your hands, a bag of groceries on your hip, and you’re staring at him, your brow furrowed in confusion.

He doesn’t blame you.

This is a strange situation, and you must be wondering who the hell is standing in front of you, why they rang your bell and then walked away.

"Um," Echo says, suddenly aware that he hasn't spoken. He clears his throat, trying to gather his wits. He didn't think this through. "Hi."

You blink, clearly not expecting that response.

"Hi," you reply, warily.

Echo tries to say something, but the words won't come.

He's frozen in place, staring at you, unable to do anything except take in your appearance, drinking in the sight of you. He didn't realize how much he needed to see you until now, and the relief he feels is overwhelming.

"Do I..." You trail off, studying him carefully. "Do I know you?"

He feels his heart break, just a little.

You don't recognize him. Of course, you wouldn't. It's been so long, and he's not the same man you knew. His face is one of thousands, identical and interchangeable. He doesn't even look like a clone anymore, not really. He's more machine than man, now, and he has no idea how he expected you to see him.

"Yeah," he manages to say, his voice hoarse. "Yeah, you do."

You raise your eyebrows, waiting. When he doesn't say anything else, you take a step towards him, squinting a little. He can feel the tension in his body, can sense your scrutiny. It's not comfortable, but it's not unpleasant, either.

"Sorry," you say, sounding frustrated, "I can't quite —"

You stop, your eyes widening, and Echo can see the exact moment it clicks.

"Oh," you gasp, covering your mouth with a shaking hand. The motion makes the paper bag of groceries on your arm start to slip, and Echo rushes forward to catch it, placing it on the floor by your feet. He stands up, and he can feel your eyes on him, can see the tears beginning to well up, can hear your breathing quicken.

He waits.

"Echo?" Your voice is soft, tentative, like you're not sure if he's real or not. Like he's some kind of ghost. He's not sure that's not what he is.

"Hey, cyar'ika," he says. His voice cracks, and he clears his throat again.

A small, incredulous laugh escapes you.

"Hi," you breathe. You cover your mouth again, trying to stifle the sob that rises from your chest. "I —" 

You let out a shaky breath, and then another, and then all of a sudden, you're crying, tears streaming down your face. Your hands come up to wipe them away, but more keep falling, and Echo is overwhelmed with the desire to hold you, to take away the pain and the sadness, to make everything right. But he doesn't know if he's allowed, doesn't know if it would be welcome. So instead, he just stands there, helpless.

"I'm sorry," you hiccup, wiping your face with the back of your hand. "I can't believe it's you."

He smiles at that, his own eyes burning. "It's me," he confirms. "I'm here."

You're shaking your head, your eyes never leaving his face, as if you're afraid that he might disappear if you look away. He doesn't blame you, and he does his best to stay as still as possible. The last thing he wants is to scare you, or make you think he's going to leave. Not when he just got here.

"I thought..." You start, and then trail off.

"I know."

You swallow hard, taking a moment to compose yourself. "I thought you were dead."

Echo winces. He's heard those words from a lot of people, but coming from you, they hurt. "Yeah, I, uh... I thought so, too, for a while."

He sees the look of horror that crosses your face, the way your eyes grow wet again, and he wishes he hadn't said it.

"How... How long have you been back?" you ask. Your voice is quiet, strained, and Echo can hear the question underneath, the one you're afraid to ask. The one that makes his stomach twist into knots.

"Not long," he answers, trying to keep his tone even, light. "Only a couple months, really."

"Months?" you repeat, incredulous. "You've been back for months?"

Echo shifts uncomfortably and nods. "Yeah."

You stare at him, your mouth opening and closing as you search for words. "And... And you didn't comm me?"

"I, uh... No."

You let out a sharp exhale and turn away, bringing your hands to your face, and he can see that you're starting to shake again. You're silent for a moment, and he can feel his heart pounding, can feel the blood rushing in his ears. His stomach churns, and he feels like he's going to be sick.

"Why?" Your voice is tight, controlled. It's the same voice you use when you're working, the one you use to keep yourself calm, to keep yourself from getting angry.

"I just... I wasn't..." Echo trails off, not sure what to say. I wasn't sure if I was coming back? That's true, but not the whole truth. I wasn't sure you'd want to see me? Also true, but also not the full answer. I wasn't sure I was worth it? Yeah, that's the one.

But he can't say it.

He doesn't know if it's fear or guilt or shame, but whatever it is, it keeps the words stuck in his throat. You're waiting for an answer, and he's not sure he has one.

"Echo," you say, your voice a warning. You turn to face him again, and he can see the hurt and frustration in your eyes. He wants to hold you, wants to apologize, wants to take it all back. But he doesn't move. He can't.

"Why?" you repeat, more forcefully this time.

"I didn't want to bother you," he says. It's the best answer he can come up with, and the worst part is that it's also true. At least, that's what he tells himself.

But the moment the words leave his mouth, he knows it's the wrong thing to say. You stiffen, and then your jaw tightens. He can tell that you're barely holding it together, and he wants to say something, to explain, but he doesn't get the chance.

"You didn't want to bother me," you repeat, and Echo can hear the anger in your voice, can feel the sting of it. "I'm sorry, did I not make it clear how much I care about you?"

"No, you did," Echo says, backtracking, trying to placate you. "You did, I promise."

"Then please explain how you thought keeping me in the dark about the fact that the man I love was still alive and well was not a bother."

The word "love" hits him like a punch to the gut.

You love him. You still love him. You're still here, and you're still loving him, even after everything. He doesn't understand, doesn't know why. Doesn't know how. But he doesn't have time to think about it, not with the way you're looking at him, the hurt and confusion clear on your face.

"That's not what I meant," he says, his voice low, pleading. "It's not that. I promise."

You let out a shaky sigh, crossing your arms over your chest. "What's the difference, then?"

Echo opens his mouth, and then closes it again, not knowing what to say.

"I mourned you," you say. Your voice is soft, almost a whisper, but it sounds loud in the silence between the two of you. "I loved you, and I mourned you, and I was doing okay, and then you just show up, and act like it's no big deal, like I didn't spend weeks, months waiting for you to come back, hoping you'd come back, and..."

Your voice cracks, and a fresh wave of tears begins to roll down your cheeks. Echo reaches out to brush them away, and you flinch. The motion stings, but he doesn't say anything, doesn't push it. He lets his hand drop to his side.

"I'm sorry," he says. "I didn't... I didn't mean to hurt you."

"Yeah, well, you did," you say, sniffling.

The words hit him harder than he expects, and he feels his throat tighten.

"I didn't know what to say," he admits, his voice breaking. "I didn't know what to do."

"Why not?" you ask, and your anger has softened, turning into something else. "Did I do something wrong?"

"No!" Echo says quickly. "Of course not. You were perfect. You were... You were amazing."

You look at him, and there's a vulnerability in your eyes that makes him want to gather you in his arms and never let go. He thinks maybe he should. But before he can, you speak.

"So what happened?" you ask. Your voice is quiet, but Echo can hear the desperation, the need for an answer. "Where were you? Why didn't you come back?"

“I—“ Echo looks around, suddenly aware of the hallway and the closed doors surrounding him, closing in on him. The space is too small, the walls are too close, the air is too thick. He feels trapped, like the world is closing in around him, and he takes a step back.

"Can we... Can we not do this out here?" he asks, trying not to let his voice betray his panic.

You study him for a moment, considering. He doesn't blame you. After all, he'd shown up out of the blue, and you had every right to be suspicious. You're still crying, but there's a steeliness in your gaze, and he can tell you're weighing your options, deciding if he's worth it or not. His heart hammers against his ribs as he waits, praying that you'll give him a chance.

Finally, you let out a sigh and nod.

"Yeah," you say, "sure."

You bend down to pick up the groceries, and Echo rushes forward, scooping them up before you can. You look at him, surprised.

"Let me help," he says. "Please."

You hesitate, and Echo can see the worry on your face, but then you nod, fumbling for the keypad. The lock clicks open, and you push the door open, motioning for him to go ahead.

He steps inside, and the familiar scent of your apartment hits him hard. He hadn't realized how much he'd missed it, how much he'd come to associate it with safety and comfort. It makes his chest ache, and he takes a moment to steady himself, willing the tears to stop.

Your apartment is the same, and yet so different.

It's still cozy, but there's a coldness to the air, a lack of warmth. The curtains are closed, and the room is dark, the only light coming from the dim bulb above the stove in the kitchen. There are dishes stacked in the sink, and a few pieces of dirty laundry have been discarded on the couch. The floor is littered with shoes and other miscellaneous items, as if someone came home and kicked everything off their feet, leaving it all in a pile. Echo’s brow furrows at the mess, and he wonders when you started to let the place get this way.

"I'm sorry," you say, sounding embarrassed. You take the bag of groceries from him, your cheeks flushed. "I wasn't expecting company."

"Don't worry about it," he assures you.

"Here, let me..." You trail off, disappearing down the hall, and a moment later, he hears a door slam shut.

Echo stands there, unsure of what to do. His gaze wanders around the room, taking everything in, trying to find something to occupy himself with. It feels like years since he's been here, and the sensation is both comforting and strange. He remembers the nights he spent curled up next to you on the couch, the quiet mornings in the kitchen, the lazy afternoons spent in bed.

He shakes his head, trying to focus on the present.

You're back now, and he needs to concentrate.

He takes a seat at the kitchen table, drumming his fingers against the wood.

It's quiet, but Echo can hear you moving around, and he wonders if you're trying to clean up, trying to make the place a little more presentable. He doesn't care about any of that. He cares about you.

And he doesn't know what to say.

He runs his hand over his face, pressing the heel of his palm into his eye, trying to think. He's rehearsed this moment in his head, has imagined all the different ways it could go.

And now that it's actually happening, he can't remember a single one.

He's such an idiot.

The minutes pass, and you finally return. He hears you enter the room, the soft sound of your footsteps, but he can't bring himself to look up. Not yet.

"Echo," you say, and he can hear the hesitation in your voice. "What happened?"

"I don't know where to start," he confesses, dropping his hand and glancing up at you.

You've changed into something more comfortable, a pair of sweatpants and your favorite sweater, and your face is scrubbed clean, makeup-free. It's nice to see you this way, a reminder of the times you shared together, and the sight makes him smile.

"Why are you smiling?"

"Nothing, it's just..." He pauses, his eyes wandering over you. "I forgot how you looked in sweatpants."

You roll your eyes, but there's a hint of amusement on your face. "Seriously? You're sitting here, after being missing for months, and you're making fun of my fashion choices?"

"I'm not making fun of you," he says, chuckling. The pressure in his chest eases slightly, and he takes a breath. "I just meant that I missed seeing you this way."

You let out a quiet, disbelieving laugh, and then shake your head.

"You're unbelievable," you mutter.

Echo smiles, and for a moment, he feels normal. As if the last year never happened, and this was just a day like any other. As if he'd just come home from a mission, and you'd greet him with a kiss, and everything would be fine.

But then you sigh, and the moment is over.

"Look, I get that this is... Well, I'm sure this isn't what you were expecting," you say. You move to sit across from him, leaning your elbows on the table and resting your chin in your hands. "But we can't keep pretending like nothing happened. You have to talk to me."

Echo stares at you, his eyes taking in the familiar lines of your face, the curve of your lips, the color of your eyes. They aren’t as bright as he remembered, not as full of life, and the realization breaks his heart. This isn't how it's supposed to be.

"Okay," he begins, clearing his throat. "So, uh, this is going to be a lot."

"That's okay," you say gently. You give him a reassuring nod, and Echo feels a swell of gratitude for you. "Just... Start at the beginning, and we'll go from there."

"Right, the beginning." Echo nods, trying to organize his thoughts, and then he starts to speak.

He tells you everything, from the moment the explosion happened, to the moment he woke up and found himself in Rex's arms, everything in between. He tells you about his injuries, the surgeries, the physical therapy. He tells you about his time with the Batch, his newfound abilities, the things he's been able to do, the things he's learned. He talks about the missions, the jobs, the danger they've faced, and the risks they've taken. He tells you about the planets, the people, the experiences. He tries to leave nothing out, even the hard parts. The loss, the pain, the fear. He doesn't want to spare you any of it.

You sit there and listen, asking questions when necessary, but mostly staying silent. And when he's done, he sits there, feeling a strange sense of relief. He hadn't realized how much he needed to talk about everything, how much he'd been holding in. And he hadn't realized how good it would feel to tell you. To have someone who cared, someone he trusted, who knew him better than anyone.

When the words run out, and the room is silent, you let out a long, slow exhale. You sit there, your hands folded together, your gaze fixed on the tabletop, and Echo waits, not sure what to expect. But the longer the silence drags on, the more worried he gets.

"Cyar'ika?" he asks, his voice hesitant.

You take a breath and look up at him, and Echo is startled to see that your eyes are glassy, and there are fresh tear tracks running down your cheeks.

"Sorry," you apologize, wiping at them with your sleeve. "I'm not — I just..."

You take another breath, and then let it out, composing yourself. "Thank you," you say. "For telling me. I know that can't have been easy."

"It wasn't," Echo admits, and his throat tightens a little. "But I'm glad I did."

You offer him a small smile, but it doesn’t reach your eyes. You look like you’re far away, lost in your own thoughts, and Echo has a feeling you're not fully present, not in the moment. And he doesn't blame you. His words can't have been easy to hear.

"Is there anything else you want to know?" he asks, trying to break the silence.

You glance at him, your eyes focusing, and then look away, your jaw clenching. Echo can see the emotion on your face, can tell that you're struggling to stay calm, to hold it together. You've always been good at that, he thinks.

"I just..." You pause, taking a shaky breath, and Echo can see the tears forming in your eyes again. "I just don't understand."

He frowns, confused. "What do you mean?"

You close your eyes, taking a moment to collect yourself. Then, you stand up and begin pacing around the kitchen, your hands clasped behind your back. You move slowly, deliberately, your gaze fixed on the floor, like you're trying to make sense of something, figure something out. 

Echo watches you, feeling uneasy. You're not giving anything away, and the silence is starting to get to him. He's never seen you in the courtroom, but he imagines this is the stance you take when you're interrogating a witness. 

It's effective.

"Can you say something, please?" he asks. He knows he sounds desperate, but he doesn't care.

"I'm thinking," you say, and Echo bites his lip.

He feels like he's going to crawl out of his skin. He wants to get up, to follow you around the room, try to coax a response out of you. He wants to make this better, to make this right. But he knows that pushing you won't help, so he stays seated, trying to keep his patience.

 You continue to pace, your expression blank, and the seconds tick by, the only sound the muffled noises of the city outside. It feels like an eternity has passed when you finally stop, standing in front of him, your arms crossed.

"I can't believe you thought I wouldn't want to see you," you say. Your voice is low, almost a whisper, and there's an edge to it that Echo doesn't recognize. It's not anger, not exactly. It's something else, something deeper.

"I know," he replies, his voice just as quiet.

"I thought you were dead," you say, the words coming out in a rush. "I grieved you. I mourned you. And then you show up, and you're... You're alive, and you're here, and you think the best thing to do is to leave me alone?"

"I didn't know what would happen," Echo explains, trying to keep his tone calm. "I wasn't sure if I was coming back, and I didn't want to —"

"No," you say sharply, cutting him off. "That's not an excuse. That's bullshit, and you know it."

Echo swallows, and nods, not sure what to say.

"We made promises," you continue, and Echo can hear the anger in your voice, can see the frustration on your face. "To each other. We talked about our future, we said things that... We made things that were real, and then you just decided it was too much, and you walked away. What the hell is that?"

"I'm sorry," Echo says around the lump forming in his throat. "I shouldn't have —"

"No," you interrupt, your eyes burning. "You shouldn't have."

Echo looks at you, and he feels like he's going to shatter. You’re staring at him with such intensity, and there's an anger in your gaze that he hasn't seen before. It's so different from the gentle look you usually give him, and it makes him ache.

"I didn't mean to hurt you," he says. "I swear, I didn't."

"Then why did you?" you ask, and there's a note of pleading in your voice. “I spent so long wondering, worrying, and you just... You didn't care."

"Of course I did," he argues. "It wasn't about that."

"Then what was it about, Echo?" you demand. "What was so important that you thought you couldn't tell me? That you couldn't comm me, or send a message, or do anything that would have let me know you were alive? That would have told me you were okay?"

"I didn't think —"

"What, that I'd care? That I'd worry? That I'd miss you? That I'd wonder where you were, and if you were okay, and what the hell happened to you?" you say, your voice rising.

Echo can feel the frustration building inside him, and he knows he shouldn't respond, knows that getting angry won't help, but the words tumble out before he can stop them. "I'm sorry," he snaps. "I wasn't exactly thinking clearly."

"That's not an excuse," you snap back, and Echo blinks, shocked. You're the most level-headed person he's ever met, and he's never heard you yell before.

"Yeah, well, it's the best one I've got," he says.

"Echo, I loved you," you say, and the past tense stings. "When Fives told me what happened to you, I —" Your voice catches, and the fight goes out of him. He can see the pain on your face, the hurt in your eyes, and he can't help but feel responsible. "I can't even describe it. It felt like my whole world was ending. And I don’t blame you for doing your duty, but I do blame you for not coming back to me."

"I know," he whispers. "I'm sorry. I really am."

You shake your head, turning away from him. "Why didn't you comm me?"

Echo hesitates. He doesn't want to admit his fears, his worries, the insecurities that have plagued him. He doesn't want to tell you how much he doubted, how much he doubted you. It feels too vulnerable, too raw. And it would only make you feel worse. But the longer the silence stretches, the more you deserve the truth. And he can't avoid it forever.

"I didn't think I was worth it," he says, his voice low. He can feel the heat in his cheeks, the sting of embarrassment. He can't look at you, doesn't want to see the pity, the disappointment, the anger. "I didn't think I was worth it."

You turn to face him, your expression softening.

"You were all I had left," he says. He feels exposed, and it's not a comfortable feeling, but he can't stop now. Not with the way you're looking at him. Not when he's so close to fixing this, to getting you back. "After everything that happened, I just... I couldn't bring myself to do it. I didn't think you'd want to see me."

"You really thought I'd just leave you?"

Echo can hear the hurt in your voice, and he's surprised at the sharpness of it. He expected to be met with some amount of anger, but he didn't expect it to cut so deep. He didn't think his insecurities would upset you so much. He's used to it, by now. After everything he's been through, the doubts and worries have become a constant, an almost comforting presence. But you were never supposed to know about them.

"It's not that," he says. "I know you wouldn't have left me. It's just... I didn't want to drag you down with me."

"That's stupid," you reply. There's no malice in your voice, but there's no sympathy, either. "What makes you think I couldn't handle it?"

"It's not about what you could handle," Echo says. "You didn't sign up for this. You didn't sign up for any of it."

"I signed up for you," you argue, and Echo is startled by the fierceness of your tone.

"And look at what that got you."

You fall silent, and Echo regrets the words the second they leave his mouth. He's always known he wasn't good enough for you, but it's different to actually say it out loud. It makes it real. And he's not sure he's ready for that. But you're looking at him like you can't believe he said it, and the disappointment in your eyes makes him feel even worse. 

Your eyes rove over him, taking in the scarring, the metal implants, the ports and wires, the armor. You look like you’re seeing him for the first time, and the disgust and fear he’d thought might appear are nowhere to be found, just a profound sense of sadness and resignation.

"Oh, Echo," you breathe. The words are quiet, but they feel like a slap, and he has to look away, not wanting to meet your gaze.

"I'm not the man you knew," he says. He sounds defeated, even to his own ears. His eyes are burning, and he has to fight to keep the tears from falling. He hates how weak he feels, how small, how vulnerable. "I can't be. I'm... I'm not him anymore."

"Yes, you are," you insist. You reach out and take his hand, squeezing gently, and the sensation makes him jump. He'd almost forgotten how warm you are, how soft. How safe. He wants to hold on, to pull you close, to never let go. "You're still the same man, the same Echo, I just..."

"What?" he asks, when you trail off. "You just what?"

You sigh, dropping his hand and running your fingers through your hair, tugging lightly. The familiar gesture makes him ache. "I don't know, Echo," you admit. "I'm... I'm sad. And I'm angry. But I'm mostly just... Confused."

"Confused about what?"

"I'm confused as to why you didn't come back to me," you say. "I'm confused as to why you thought I'd want anything else."

"I thought you deserved better," he says, the words sounding hollow, even to his own ears. "I thought you deserved someone who was whole, who could give you a normal life, who didn't have a hundred years of baggage and trauma to deal with. And I was terrified that you already had that."

"Had what?"

"A normal life," he answers. "Without me. And the more I thought about it, the more I convinced myself it was true."

"It's not," you say. Your voice is quiet, but firm, and Echo looks at you, searching for any trace of doubt, of hesitation, of insincerity. But all he finds is determination, and it makes his heart clench. The intensity in your gaze is too much, and he has to look away. His eyes trail over the walls, the ceiling, the floor, lingering on the groceries on the table, the dishes in the sink, the empty bottles of wine shoved into the trash, the pile of laundry on the couch. There’s a dent in the wall that wasn't there the last time he was here, and the carpet is worn. He wonders when that happened.

He feels a tug on his arm, and then you're reaching up to cup his face, your hands soft and warm. You turn his head to face you, your thumb stroking his cheek. The touch is gentle, comforting, and Echo can't stop the sigh that escapes him. It's been so long since someone touched him like this, and it's nice. It's more than nice. It's familiar. It's safe. It's home.

"I only wanted you," you whisper.

"Even after everything?" he asks. He doesn't mean to sound so incredulous, but he can't help it. He's spent so long convincing himself that you were better off without him, and now, hearing you say the opposite, hearing you say the words he'd only ever hoped for, the ones he'd tried to convince himself were true... It's a lot to take in.

"Even after everything," you affirm.

"You could have had anyone," he says. "Why me?"

"Because I love you," you answer, as if it's the simplest thing in the galaxy. As if it's the most obvious thing in the universe. "And I don't want anyone else."

"Cyar'ika..." His voice cracks, and the tears are falling freely now. You wipe them away, and the touch makes his chest ache.

"I've never stopped loving you, Echo," you say. Your voice is barely audible, but Echo hears it. And it's the best sound he's ever heard. "And I don't plan on stopping now."

"I'm sorry," he says. "I'm sorry I left you, and I'm sorry I didn't comm you, and I'm sorry I was such a coward, and I'm —"

"Shh," you murmur, cutting him off. "I forgive you."

Echo can't speak. He's not sure he can move, can't even breathe. The relief is overwhelming, and it threatens to knock him off his feet. His chest tightens, and the tears won't stop falling, and he doesn't know what to do. He's missed you so much, has regretted leaving every single day, and now that you're here, now that he has you back, he can't find the words to express how grateful he is, how relieved, how happy.

"You really thought I was going to leave you?" you ask, and Echo can hear the note of humor in your voice, can see the ghost of a smile on your face. It's reassuring, and he lets himself smile, too.

"Honestly? Yes," he admits.

"Never," you reply.

Echo leans down and rests his forehead against yours, closing his eyes and breathing deeply. You move your hands down his face, brushing the tears away with your thumbs, before bringing them around his neck, wrapping your arms around him. He moves to do the same, pulling you closer and wrapping his arms around your waist. You let out a quiet gasp of surprise, and Echo chuckles, holding you tighter.

"I missed you," he whispers, and it feels good to say the words out loud. "So much."

"I missed you, too," you say, your breath warm against his neck. You tilt your head and press a kiss against his throat, and Echo feels his heart stutter. "More than I can say."

Echo hums and pulls away, bringing his hand up to brush the hair away from your face. Your skin is warm, and soft, and he leans in and presses a kiss against your forehead, savoring the contact. You sigh, and he can't resist the urge to kiss you again, this time on the cheek.

"Echo," you murmur, letting out a shaky breath.

He kisses the corner of your mouth, and then your jaw, and your grip on his neck tightens, your fingers digging into the fabric of his blacks. He moves down your throat, trailing kisses along the column of your neck, and you gasp.

"I missed you, too," he murmurs, and you laugh.

"Yeah, I got that," you say. "Now, will you please kiss me?"

Echo smiles and obliges.

The kiss is soft and sweet, and it tastes like home. He cups the back of your neck, his scomp moving to rest on your hip, and you let out a pleased noise, your hands sliding down to his shoulders. The warmth of your mouth, the way your lips part, the little gasps and sighs you make, it all makes him want to get closer, to be nearer.

You break the kiss, and Echo lets out a quiet whimper. You chuckle and rest your head on his shoulder, and Echo brings his hand up to stroke your hair, his fingers combing through the strands. You sigh and lean into his touch, and he can't help the contented smile that spreads across his face.

"I'm glad you're here," you murmur. "I'm glad you came back."

"Me, too," he says. He tilts your head up and presses a kiss to your temple, his lips lingering. You close your eyes and nuzzle his neck, and Echo sighs, holding you close. It feels so good to have you in his arms again, to be able to hold you, and he wishes he could stay here forever. But the reality of the situation catches up with him, and he can't help the wave of guilt that washes over him.

"I'm sorry, Cyar'ika," he says.

You frown, and pull away slightly. "What are you apologizing for?"

"I didn't think this through," he admits. "I... I didn't know what was going to happen, and now..." He pauses, letting out a frustrated sigh. "I just... I'm sorry. I’m leaving soon, and I know it's going to be hard, and I know you're going to have to say goodbye again, and I'm —"

"Echo," you interrupt, and your voice is firm. You put your hand on his chest, and he can feel the heat of it, even through the layers of armor and clothing. "I know what I signed up for. I'm not expecting anything different."

"But —"

"No," you cut him off. "No buts. I knew what this was, Echo. And I still want it."

"But you shouldn't have to," Echo argues. "I don't want to put you through that."

"Well, it's a little late for that," you reply. Your tone is sharp, and Echo winces. "Look, Echo. I know the situation isn't ideal, but I'm not going to walk away because it's hard. And I'm not going to stop caring just because it hurts." You look at him, and the determination in your gaze makes his heart skip a beat. "You're worth it, okay? No matter what."

"Cyar'ika —"

"No," you say, shaking your head. "You're not changing my mind. You can try, but it's not going to work. So don't waste your time." You give him a stern look, and then your face softens. "Okay?"

"Okay," Echo agrees. He knows it's futile to argue. He's never been able to say no to you. Not when it matters. "I'm still sorry, though."

You roll your eyes, and then stand on your toes and give him a quick kiss. "You're lucky I love you," you say, and the words make him feel lighter.

"Yeah, I am," he agrees, grinning.

"So, what now?" you ask.

Echo shrugs, suddenly feeling overwhelmed. He's been so focused on finding you, on convincing you to forgive him, on making things right, that he hasn't thought about what comes next. The prospect of it is both exhilarating and terrifying, and he doesn't know where to start. There's so much to do, and so little time. And he doesn't want to waste another second.

"Do you want to stay?" you offer.

"Stay?"

"Here," you clarify. "For a while. I don't know how long you can, but..." You pause, a flush spreading across your cheeks. “I was going to make dinner. If you wanted to stay."

"Dinner?" Echo repeats, and he can't hide the excitement in his voice. The idea of a home-cooked meal is so far removed from his life now, so distant, that the thought of it almost makes him lightheaded. "Really?"

You laugh, and the sound fills him with warmth. "Yes, Echo. Really."

"What are you making?" he asks. The question sounds childish, and he can't believe how eager he is, how excited.

"Just a simple dish," you say. You move towards the counter and begin putting the groceries away, and Echo follows you, a smile spreading across his face. While you tell him about the recipe, he moves toward your sink, picking up a dish and turning the water on. You look over at him, and the fondness in your eyes makes him blush. "You don't have to do that, Echo."

"I know," he replies. "I want to."

"Well, alright then."

The two of you work together, talking and laughing as you wash the dishes and prepare the food. Echo feels lighter than he has in months, and it's a relief to be here with you, to have something normal and familiar to do. Something so domestic, so ordinary, and yet, so special.

He wants to remember this.

When the food is ready, you gesture to the table, and Echo takes a seat. You sit across from him, and for a moment, the two of you just look at each other. He's missed you, missed this. Missed being here, missed having someone who knew him, someone he could trust. Someone he could love.

You're both quiet, and Echo can see the wheels turning in your head, can see the way your eyes dart over him, taking everything in. You're cataloging, committing him to memory too. The realization hits him, and his chest tightens. He'll be leaving soon, and you're doing what you can to make sure you won't forget him. It's a sobering thought, and he's not sure how to handle it.

"Hey," you say, and Echo looks up, meeting your gaze. "It's okay. We'll be fine."

"How did you know?" he asks, startled.

You shrug. "It's written all over your face."

"I'm sorry," he murmurs. "I wish I could stay."

"It's okay," you repeat. “We have the night, and that’s more than enough. For now, let's just enjoy the time we have."

Echo nods.

You're right.

You always are.

You smile, and it's so beautiful, so genuine, that it takes his breath away. You reach across the table and take his hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. He squeezes back, and you lean forward, resting your elbows on the table and putting your chin in your hand. The way you're looking at him, the affection in your eyes, it makes him feel like he's the only thing that matters, like he’s home.

And, right now, he is.

He's missed this.

He's missed you.

And as the two of you sit there, enjoying each other's company, Echo knows he's made the right choice. He knows that coming back was worth it, that finding you, fixing things, making things right, it's all been worth it. And he knows that, no matter what, he'll be back.

He'll find his way back to you.

Taglist: @baddest-batchers @covert1ntrovert @stellarbit @bruh-myguy-what @qvnthesia

@spicy-clones @kindalonleystars @cw80831 @totallyunidentified @heidnspeak

@lovelytech9902 @frozenreptile @chocolatewastelandtriumph @etod @puppetscenario

@umekohiganbana @resistantecho @dindjarins1ut @tech-aficionado @aynavaano

@burningnerdchild @ihatesaaand @lolwey @hobbititties @mere-bear

@thegreatpipster @lordofthenerds97 @tentakelspektakel @notslaybabes @mali-777

@schrodingersraven @megmegalodondon @dangraccoon @dreamie411 @sukithebean

@bimboshaggy @anything-forourmoony @9902sgirl @jedi-dreea @salaminus

@ghostymarni @gottalovehistory @burningnerdchild @yoitsjay @callsign-denmark

@julli-bee @sonicrainbooms @captn-trex @feral-ferrule @webslinger-holland

@marchingviolinist @deerspringdreams

[chopper-base]

Plan 99

Day 5 of @tbb-appreciation-week (which yes, I know im very late to)

Summary: Tech finds himself alive but in the empires hands. Extremely injured and alone, he can only hope his brothers managed to escape as he fights to escape with the help of a brother long lost.

Warnings: mentions of torture and death, hurt/comfort, Crosshair needs a kriffin vacation.

Prompts: Crosshair, Whump, Hiding face in neck, "I'll keep you safe"

Chpt1 | Chpt2

Chapter 2

Crosshair awoke to a sharp ache, a pained groan slipping past his lips. He took a shaky breath, a migraine quickly forming. It was no surprise when he realized he couldn’t move, restraints tightly bound over his wrists and ankles. He knew it was only a matter of time before Hemlock or one of his assistants noticed he had regained consciousness. It was a hellish routine. Every second the sniper was awake, he was being probed and prodded, a rat for them to use however they pleased.

“Crosshair?” A small voice whispered his name and Crosshair hoped to the Maker he was hallucinating. “Crosshair, it’s Omega. Can you hear me?”

Maker, kriff it all…

He forced his eyes open a crack, looking out of the corners of his eyes to see two very young and tear filled eyes staring back at him. The young girl's hair was longer than he had last seen it, hanging down just above her shoulders. Small bruises littered her face and neck, a hint of blood staining the collar of her shirt. Crosshair couldn't stop the seething anger that came over him as his eyes scanned over every scrape and bruise on her skin.

He opened his mouth to speak, wincing at the pain it caused but he forced himself to look his little sister in the eye, "...Who did this to you?"

She forced a small smile onto her face, reaching up and setting her hand gently on his bicep. "I'm okay, Crosshair."

If he wasn't strapped to this damn table, Crosshair he was sure he was gonna murder whoever the unfortunate soul was that stepped into this room next. The sniper was never one for physical contact but he wanted nothing more than to hold the terrified child next to him. He looked around, surveying the room, noticing the two were strangely alone. "Where's the rest of the batch?" He asked, hating how his own voice scratched out of his throat.

Omega's face fell, tears beginning to collect in the corners of her eyes. "Hunter and Wrecker escaped but…" Her voice broke, the tears rolling down her bruised cheeks. "Tech… he…" the choked sob that escaped her lips was enough for the sniper to realize what she meant.

He desperately searched her face for some sort of lie. Tech couldn't be dead. They had survived so much. He couldn't…

"Omega." He said as calmly as he could muster. "What happened to Tech?"

She couldn't look him in the eye, holding his arm like a lifeline. "We got- we got your message. Tech convinced Hunter to… to look for you. He- we were stuck on a rail car and was just hanging. We tried to pull him up! But he- he shot the connector and- I'm sorry!" She sobbed, her grip on his arm tightening.

Plan 99… Tech had sacrificed himself to save his brothers. Crosshair squeezed his eyes shut, trying to keep the tears at bay. He looked back at Omega, choked sobs racking her small frame.

"Omega." He said softly. "Do you know if anyone is outside this room?"

Omega finally met his gaze, shaking her head. "I don't think so. They locked the door and left me in here. Nala Se convinced them to let me see you."

Crosshair glanced down at his restrained body before looking back up at the girl. "You think you could get these restraints off?"

Omega scanned over his body before nodding, freeing his head first before moving down. Her face scrunched in concentration as she fiddled with the controls for the metal cuffs restraining his arms and legs. A small smile worked its way onto her face as the cuffs snapped open, freeing the sniper completely.

He lifted his arms slowly, rubbing his sore wrists before slowly sitting up. Omega put a supporting hand on his back as he swung his legs over the side of the table. He knew they didn't have much time but he took a precious second to pull the child into an embrace which she gladly accepted. He pulled away, lowering himself to the floor, grabbing the table to keep himself from falling as his legs shook under his weight. Omega held onto his hip, helping steady him, her eyes locked on his. He looked around the room again, looking for anything he could use as a makeshift weapon, his eyes landing on a shelf stocked with different tools. He recognized every one as Hemlock had used everyone on him at some point during his unfortunate stay in this hell hole. He slowly made his way over the shelf, grabbing the electrocution rod, flipping it on and watched the electricity dance along the end before switching it back off. He turned to Omega who was watching him intently. "The next person to walk through that door is going to have a very bad day." That got the small smile to return to her face.

The sound of the lock disengaging had the sniper quickly crossing the room, standing against the wall next to the door. The door hissed opened, and two TK troopers stepped in, their gaze fixed on Omega. The first one dropped with a grunt, the other barely able to turn to see the sniper before he too lay in a heap on the floor. Crosshair quickly picked up one of their blasters, turning the stun off before handing it to Omega and grabbing the other, doing the same. "Stay behind me and shoot when I tell you too." He instructed, peeking out of the room to see an empty hallway. Omega remained glued to him, peeking out from beside him with a death grip on the blaster in her hands. It was almost cute to see such a small child holding a blaster but he was reminded of that dreadful day when the batch first fled Kamino. When that same child expertly shot his firepuncher out of his hands. He knew she had no blaster training and yet she made that perfect shot. He knew there was something special about this kid, he just didn't quite know what it was yet.

He made his way down the hall, making sure Omega never left his side, listening closely for any footsteps or alarms but the hall remained silent. Too silent for the snipers taste.

Finally, those dreadful footsteps began to echo down that damned hallway, forcing Crosshair to pull Omega into the closest door. He had snaked his arm behind her back, lifting her up enough to press the child against his chest as he slammed the door controls. The door hissed shut, both clones holding their breath as they heard thundering footsteps echoing down the hall. They were alone in the room, the lights dimmed as far as they could go leaving the two in near darkness. The blaster was still gripped tightly in Omega's small hand, her other hand made its way around his neck. She made no move to get Crosshair to put her down, holding tightly to the sniper. The footsteps faded letting them both finally breathe. Omega turned slightly, her face burying into the side of his neck.

He could feel her begin to shake, her other arm wrapping around the other side of his neck. He lowered them both down, his knees landing on the cool metal floor. Her feet were still barely touching the ground as he held her tightly, unable to bring himself to let her go. "It's ok, ad'ika." He whispered into her ear. "I'll keep you safe. I promise."

She pulled back, her feet finally flat on the floor. Her gaze met his, tears brimming her brown eyes. A small smile decorated her face as she looked at her brother.

Crosshair forced himself to return the small gesture, trying to keep the child as calm as he could. He finally broke his gaze away, looking closer at the room they had taken refuge in. The room was basically empty. All that stood in there was a small control station and what looked to be three bacta tanks. Crosshair's breath caught in his throat as his gaze met the face of the man suspended in the first tank. Omega turned, searching for what the sniper had noticed and it was clear the moment she did.

"...Tech?"

Tag list!! (Let me know if you'd like to be added!!)

@rain-on-kamino @idoubleswearimawriter @staycalmandhugaclone @nobody-expects-the-inquisitorius @kalykat

[boywizard-moved]

i just watched the tbb episodes and apart from the horrendous whitewashing that makes each episode really really bad to watch, i have. other gripes.

one of the defining traits of the troopers, that was stressed in multiple episodes over tcw series was the fact that in the end they are brothers and will go to great lengths to care for each other and have each others backs and tbb is like,,,,completely lacking it lol. i understand that since theyre 'different' tbb could possibly feel alienated from other clones/clone culture ect but theres absolutely no care at all for other troopers or even within their group. they just seem like a bunch of guys who hang out with each other with absolutely no bond.

in reference to no relation felt to other clones, disney, being disney, has a very flat black-and-white view on morality and flattens issues into 'good guys-bad guys' view, which causes reg troopers to be immediately 'the Bad Guys' and therefore no compassion or empathy was shown to them by tbb. in literally most instances in tcw, clones who have to go up against other clones,excluding times where they are tricked/coerced are very careful to try not to hurt each other and definitely dont use lethal force. in tbb, none of the 'brothership' between tbb and regs is present at all. regs are stormtrooperized, immediately becoming non-people, just some dumb guys who cant shoot and are on the opposing side. which really really rubs me the wrong way.

obviously, tbb is on a different scale from tcw and is visibly far more of a 'kids show' than tcw. but tcw had a far more nuanced view of war/conflict and opposing sides that disney produced shows have lacked and caused very 3-demensional conflicts and characters to be flattened. another example of this 'black&white flattening' is thrawn in rebels and it really really bugs me because more complex conflicts/characters weren't a problem for viewers in tcw as far as i'm aware and its just. annoying. (obviously this is a very very general statement and there are a lot of,,,,gaps, lets say, where this was not the case) but it really bugs me in this instance because it effectively dehumanized 'reg' troopers and it left a very bad feeling in my mouth

[the-lady-of-stars]

The one about the Gonk droid and the Comm

For @itsyellow ☺️

Crosshair x Reader

Peace, love and kisses for my man Crosshair bc boy does he deserve it after todays episode. No spoilers for TBB. No plot at all tbh just shameless love for grumpy man. Somebody give this man a kiss pls.

Warnings: Very brief non-explicit mention of sex near the end but nothing graphic at all it's just Wrecker poking fun at Cross and reader.

My inbox is still open for requests! See my earlier post for details :)

You left your bunk on the Maurauder just in time to watch Crosshair storm off the ship, lips pulled into a thin grimace.

You immediately turned to look at the rest of the boys, furrowing your brows in silent questioning. The sheepish smile on Wrecker's face told you enough about what had occurred.

As much as they loved each other, Wrecker's boistorous and loud personality often clashed with that of his silent and snarky brother, something which proved to be the starting point for many arguments when they were crowded together on such a small ship.

With a roll of your eyes you slipped out the ramp and headed over to your sniper who was now perched on top of a tall rock glaring out over the forest. You basked in the feeling of grass beneath your boots, enjoying the fresh air that the planet you had temporarily stopped on provided.

Crosshair, as you had expected, was polishing his rifle with a cloth, a habit he had formed to calm himself down. He paid you no notice as you settled next to him, just meticulously scrubbing at the rifle.

"Cross." No answer. "Look at me. Please?" you spoke softly and sweetly to him, not wanting to anger him any further. You knew his annoyance at Wrecker wouldn't last long, it never did, but when he was angry Crosshair was a ticking bomb.

The sniper huffed out a sigh, carefully placing his rifle down before turning to meet your gaze. You smiled at him, and Crosshair immediately felt his irritation melting away at the tenderness in your eyes.

"What happened back there?" you asked tentatively.

He groaned, scowling at the memory. "Wrecker was weightlifting that karking gonk-droid again and he slammed it down on my comm. I'd only taken it off for a second before he crushed it. Tech's got it now, but there's only so much you can do to fix a pile of scrap metal with sparks coming out of it."

You choked lightly, trying to hide your laughter under the guise of a cough.

"Oh, think that's funny do you?"

Crosshair tried to get up to storm off yet again but you grabbed his wrist and lightly tugged him back down.

"Hey, hey no. 'S not funny. Not at all," once again you barely concealed a snort, resulting in the sniper rolling his eyes back. You didn't miss, however, the way his mouth began to form a grin.

Crosshair sighed to himself, finding his thoughts drifting to how you were his weak spot, how something about you brought him a feeling of peace that no other could.

He shook his head with a huff of laughter, finally seeing the humorous side as his anger faded.

"Gonna kill 'im," he grumbled, turning to face you and taking your hands in his.

You laughed openly this time, and Crosshair felt his heart skip a beat at the sound. Tech had described him as 'wrapped around your finger' a few days ago, and as much as he hated to admit it, his little brother was right.

Cross smiled, playing absentmindedly with your fingers as you sat cross-legged facing each other.

"I'm sure he didn't mean to drop it on your comm, Cross," you reassured with a smile.

"Eh, I know. Doesn't make the sheb-head any less annoying though."

You snickered then lifted his hands to your face, pressing a soft kiss against the knuckles of each one. Crosshair found himself in a trance, feeling his skin heat up as your plush lips skimmed across his hands.

He slid one hand out of your grasp to reach up and gently cup your jaw, running a thumb over your cheek. His breath caught in his throat as you leaned into his touch, your eyes fluttering closed. You tilted your head to the side to press a kiss to his palm. In return, Cross pulled the hand he was still holding to his lips and mirrored your previous actions, trailing kisses across the peaks of your knuckles.

It didn't matter how Crosshair liked to portray himself to outsiders. The second you came close to him he would always drop his cold and bitter facade in exchange for tenderness and passion.

"I love you," he breathed against your skin, barely audible but still music to your ears.

"I love you too, Cross. More than you'll ever know."

He exhaled deeply before shifting closer to you, lifting both hands now to cup your jaw and pull you in for a kiss. There was no rushing this time, no swift kisses stolen when his brothers weren't looking, no rapid pecks before charging into gunfire, there was just pure emotion.

Crosshair didn't need to use words to tell you how he felt. The way he tilted his head to swipe his lips oh so perfectly against yours told you enough, and you found yourself reaching behind his neck to pull him closer. You lowered one hand to rest it flat over his heart, feeling how strongly it pounded, how fast it jumped. You'd be lying if you said you were in any better state. His tongue lightly traced your bottom lip before he tugged on it with his teeth playfully, grinning.

He wormed his hands under your thighs and scooped you up into his lap, deepening the kiss. Crosshair felt high in that moment, caught up in the taste of your lips and the way your soft skin nuzzled against his. Your hands clutched the back of the collar of his blacks at the base of his neck, keeping him secure and close as you could.

The two of you were so caught up in the moment, in fact, that you failed to notice Wrecker bounding towards you until he practically roared out Crosshair's name in joy. He groaned deeply, his annoyance at his brother returning at being interrupted.

"What, Wrecker? Can't you see we're a little busy here?" he spoke sharply, turning his attention to the large man who was parading Crosshair's comm up in the air at the end of an extended arm.

"Tech fixed it! See? Good as new!" he bellowed, waving it around.

Crosshair groaned, reaching out to snatch it from his brother's grip before he went and broke it again.

"That's great, Wrecker. Now. D'you mind?" he sharply motioned his head in the direction of the Marauder, signalling his brother to return and leave him alone.

Wrecker convulsed with laughter at this, clutching his sides.

"Yeah, sure! I'll leave you alone so you can keep makin' out with your girl. Don't have too much fun though. Me and the boys are only over there in the ship and we sure as kriff don't wanna hear anything like we did the other night from your bunk."

You choked at this, turning to hide your face from Wrecker in embarassment, naturally only sending him into another fit of laughter.

"Wrecker!" Crosshair howled, pointing a finger aggressively at the Marauder.

"Alright, alright, I'm goin'." Wrecker chuckled, turning to depart for the ship but not before shooting you a heavy wink.

You groaned, hiding your face in Crosshair's neck. "I don't think I'm ever going to be able to show my face to your brothers again."

Cross' chest shook in laughter. "Oh well, they'll get used to it."

[clonehub]

(please if you want to interact, only like and/or reply--or shoot an ask!)

racism has this weird lag effect, this like uneven bounce-back that ive seen in person but also that im seeing in whatever is left of the tcw fandom.

so like uwwtbb came out, poc were generally pleased w it and white folks were generally and LOUDLY displeased with it. months of harassment came roughly to an end toward the end of last year, and then the fandom was peaceful, THEN the burnout hit and now like three of the most prominent non-racist voices in this fandom have had to step back or drop this place entirely. im way less interested than I was before racist white folks started talking about how much they loved and needed racism.

and reaching out to new folks is hard kajshdlf whenever I do come across a new person whos a) not white and b) into star wars, they're like. bitterly into it. like racists have really sucked the joy out of being in this place so even though we had a few weeks/months of utter calm, now we can't even enjoy it cause folks are leaving

(I dont mean to spell a picture of doom, this is just what im observing)

like all the racists bowed out the second they popped up (they were never gonna last lmao) but they trashed everything so much that its like. idk im bracing myself whenever I even so much as post about uwwtbb.

(notice how the constant harassment I would get on anon has sharply fallen off once those pro-uwwtbb mostly shut the fuck up)

again, im not trying to be glum or be overly pessimistic. but like goddamn things sure have changed. the main narrative we're all following in canon certainly isn't helping things at all. the tcw fandom had racists in it for years but its not like calling out the racist elements of the show reached the level of vitriol that tbb stans did over the last year alone (I've been in this fandom since I was 13, I know what Im talking about)

I just checked, its the one-year anniversary of UnwhitewashTBB

[dindadjarin]

Reunited

pairing: captain rex x Jedi!gn reader

word count: somewhat over 5k (im sorry)

warnings: none, just some diet angst and maybe some typos

summary: you and Rex both thought the other to be gone for good, but fate brings you together once again to prove you otherwise. A chance you thought was lost appears again and you must decide if you’ll take it or not.

AN: OK Y’ALL I know I said many times that I would post this and then I never do but hear me out. I intended to post this the week after TBB episode 7 came out but I got sick™️ my brain could not think of or type a single word for a week. Then life got busy with work problems and it took me another week to finish this. BUT I’m happy I can share with you now. So here you go, a shiny new Rex fic that I hope you like. Enjoy! (gif by @obihoekenobi​ not mine lol I cant gif)

------

The Marauder makes a smooth decent into the Ord Mantell space port –a very welcome change after being tossed around the ship while trying to get away from Rhokai. Ruby, the lizard you stole from the Rhokai —named by Omega— moves restlessly around her cage. Hopefully she’ll end up in good hands once Cid delivers her to whoever is paying for the bounty. You’re still not sure what to make of the Trandoshan, but she’s been hospitable so far. At least hospitable enough to let clone deserters, Omega and a Jedi stay with her. Still, after what happened at the end of the Clone Wars, you’re not one to be trusting when it comes to strangers.

Everyone gathers their things by the hatch and wait for the familiar hiss of it opening to start their descent. When you don’t go to the main hatch, Omega and Echo being the last ones to head out,  turn back to look at you.

“You’re not coming with us?” Omega asks you after calling your name, which makes you shake your head no while sending a soft smile her way.  

“No, you go ahead.” You stand up from the seat in front of the main computer and run your hand over her head. “I’ll stay behind for a bit, I’ll meet you back at Cid’s later.”

“Ok!” The kid smiles. “Say bye to Ruby.”

You chuckle and decide to amuse her by crouching in front of the cage. “Goodbye Ruby, take care wherever you go.” You send the lizard a wave before standing up once more.

“We’ll see you later then.” Echo nods at you, the look in his eyes shows he knows why you’re staying behind. You return his nod with one of your own before turning around and heading to the back of the ship.

The floor is littered with ration crumbs, used socks and cables. Even Omega’s bad batcher had managed to find its way under a heavy crate. “I don’t even know why we’ve got you here Gonky, when all the trash is just thrown on the floor.”

The droid makes a sound that sounds a lot like an agreement. It prompts a chuckle out of you as you keep picking things up and placing them where they should be. You put Tech’s cables back on his bunk bed, the laundry on its bin, and the rest of the trash inside Gonky who beeps happily.  Once everything is back in order and the Marauder resembles a ship more than a junkyard, you clean your hands and make your way to a seat at the front of the ship. Your feelings had been all over the place lately, not that anyone notices, but you needed some time to meditate.

It’s important for you to find some peace in the midst of the chaos and the nervousness creeping up your neck whenever Wrecker gets a headache. Just as you’re about to sit down though, you remember Omega’s bad batcher, stuck under a crate in the back. You sigh and turn back around, better to help the poor trooper and leave it in Omega’s room, than having her and Wrecker move everything around later trying to find it.

You haven’t been travelling with the Bad Batch for a long time –you found them in Pantora only a few rotations back, when you had recognized Hunter at a pawn shop. Still, you’ve grown fond of them in your time together. They really are a family, with the bickering, the laughter and the care that makes you feel glad to come back every day. You had worked together before, when the batch helped your battalion on some missions during the clone wars, so it was a relief to see a familiar face in when you were all alone. You knew it was a risk to even call out to the Sergeant in the shop, not knowing if his chip would be active or not, but it was that or being on the run and jumping from one transport to another.

It was reassuring really, to know their chips didn’t function as those in other troopers did. Like the soldiers in your own battalion, your friends…

Shaking yourself from those bad memories, you make your way back to where you saw Omega’s toy. It’s under 2 crates behind some cargo boxes, that you start to rearrange. You move the first one with ease towards another pile, but when you lift the second crate and save the trooper, the bracelet on your right hand gets stuck on the crate it comes loose when you stand up.

“Dank farrik!” You whisper to yourself, putting the trooper aside and crouching down to get your bracelet back on. Upon closer inspection, it was only the brown leather cord that had come loose, the beautiful blue stone tied to the middle was still intact. “Thank the Maker.” You’re relieved to say the least, when you tie the bracelet back on your hand and rub the stone softly as it sits on your wrist.

It’s a reminder of the past, of the war that just ended in such a gruesome way, and a reminder of him. Rex.

The captain had given you the stone when he had come back from an underwater mission in Mon Calamari. He’d said he found it in the ocean and knew that if you’d been there, you would have picked it up as well. You had ignored his flustered expression to save him from further embarrassment and thanked him softly –all while your heart fluttered as your fingers brushed. Private interactions were always like that with him, shy and hidden as it had to be.

Even when feelings kept growing between you, they were kept under lock and key for the sake of the war. There was no time for it and it wouldn’t have been seen right. So it was a secret when you worked together and it remains a secret even now… he’s dead and you never got to say it, it’s like the two of you never had a chance.

The pain in your throat is familiar to you as you try to keep your tears at bay. You sit there on the floor of the Marauder and curse fate for sending you off to different missions before the end of the war. Now you live with the regret in your conscience, all the pain that comes with it and newfound guilt at the thought of your travels with the Bad Batch. You’re endangering them, and Omega, by being part of the crew.

What if you are recognized, what if someone hurts them to get to you? One thing is for sure, you must talk to Cid and find a way to leave on your own. Perhaps you can go to a secluded planet and work for Cid when she needs you, or you’ll stay in Ord Mantell. Whatever the plan is though, you know for sure that it must be alone –if someone’s ever going to get hurt because you’re a Jedi, that’ll be you. You unclip your lightsaber and throw it to the back of the ship in frustration, to think you believed things to be complicated before.

You let yourself cry for a few more minutes, and then meditate on your decision to leave the Batch for a couple more before you stand up, take your datapad on the way, and leave the ship. You close the hatch with your vambrace and make your way out of the port and towards Cid’s bar. The streets are dirty like you left them and somewhere far ahead a pipe has broken and it’s slowly filling the street with water. Sighing, you decide to take the the route through the market to avoid the small flood and your frown is immediately replaced by a smile when you see Omega and Wrecker enjoying two boxes of Mantell mix.

Omega spots you first and waves, which gets Wrecker’s attention. He calls your name and waves you over. “We have Mantell Mix!” He points enthusiastically to it as you approach the two.

“Best part of the mission!” Says Omega, offering you some. “You’ve got to try it.”

You chuckle and oblige, picking some of it and chewing it carefully. The sweet and salty taste is delicious, and you immediately know why the two have become addicted to it. “It’s delicious!” You tell them, and then a thought crosses your mind. “Have you paid for these?”

Wrecker chuckles, “We put them on Cid’s tab! It’s fine.”

“If you say so…” You shrug. If Cid hasn’t said anything yet, then it’s probably fine. “I’ll see you two back at the bar. Enjoy.”

“Bye!” Omega waves for a second before becoming engrossed with the sweet treat in front of her once more.

Though your smile is small it stays on your face as you turn right at the familiar alleyway leading to the underground bar. It continues to be there as you examine the art covering the walls next to the stairs, but it dies quickly when you reach the bottom and see the people sitting by the bar. There, between Echo and Hunter is Rex? In a poncho?

You drop the data pad  you were holding, and it clatters when it falls on the floor, the sound loud in the silence that has fallen over the group. Your eyes meet Rex’s, and you can’t form a single word. The air you had inhaled is stuck in your chest. “You’re- What?” Your mind can’t form a single word other than his name, especially when he stands from his chair and whispers yours.

“I thought you were dead. How? Are you travelling with them? Are you… okay?” The captain seems to ask question after question that you can’t pay your full attention to. Not when he’s looking at you like that, with genuine concern in his kind eyes. Not when he’s alive in front of you.

You throw all caution to the wind, then, and get over your initial shock to walk over to where he stands and put your arms around him. The confirmation that he is standing right there in your arms, is enough to make a shaky breath leave your lips as you place your cheek on his shoulder.

“Rex.” You whisper. The captain tenses for a second before his arms circle your waist and hugs you just as tightly. These are his brothers, you suppose, that’s why he’s letting his guard down.

When you step back, you can’t help but smile widely at the man in front of you. “Rex, I thought you were dead. You’re okay… but how?” You spot a scar on the side of his head and run your thumb carefully over it. It must be where he removed his chip from, otherwise he would’ve killed you on sight. The Captain, with his back to the rest of the group, closes his eyes for a second at your touch before he smiles softly.

“He is listed as dead according to the Empire’s records. And you are presumed dead according to your previous battalion’s reports.” Tech chimes in from his seat on the bar.

You chuckle and shake your head, still looking into the Rex’s eyes. “It’s so good to see you.”

“I could say the same thing. I thought I’d… never see you again.” His eyes scan your face, a small smile gracing his features as he does so. Then he spots your new set of clothes and raises an eyebrow at you. “Nice overalls.”

“Nice poncho.” You tease him back, motioning to the brown piece of clothing covering his armour. “My old clothes gave me away, I blend in better this way.” The shrug you offer his way is shy as his gaze never leaves you. You suppose it’s fair as yours can’t focus on anything else but him.

“It suits you.” He says softly, his head tilting slightly to the right as you share yet another long gaze.

“Well look who it is!” Wrecker laughs as he reaches the bottom of the stairs, startling you both and making you turn to look at the excited trooper. Omega follows him closely behind and seems surprised to see another clone at the bar. “Come here, Rex!” Wrecker says loudly as he moves past you and hugs the captain.

“I thought you didn’t like regs.” Omega questions with a tilt of her head but Wrecker merely laughs as he picks Rex up.

“This one we like.”

You chuckle to yourself at the look Rex sends your way before you move to stand by Echo.

“So… you and Rex are still a thing.” Echo states, keeping his voice low for the conversation to remain private. He glances to his right at you before taking a sip from his drink.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” You smile as Rex kneels in front of Omega, speaking softly to her. He’s here, he’s alive.

“Oh, please. Everyone knew back then that the two of you had feelings for each other. Don’t tell me you’re still pretending you’re just friends.” Echo rolls his eyes when you look away guiltily. “I thought you would have said something by now.”

“It’s complicated, okay. There’s never any time.” You shrug, looking at the captain with longing –wishing things had been different back then.

Wrecker’s groan keeps Echo from saying anything else, and the way he clutches his head in pain makes a nervous shiver creep up the back of your neck. Rex stands up, and there’s weariness in his eyes. “What’s wrong?” His voice is low and controlled, assessing the trooper in front of him.

“Nothing it’s just a headache.” Wrecker dismisses Rex’s question, but you don’t miss the way Rex moves to stand protectively in front of Omega.  

Echo speaks up next, “Which are becoming more frequent.”

This only intensifies Rex’s worry, shown in his furrowed eyebrows, while his right hand reaches for something at his side. You immediately know he’s reaching for one of his pistols. “Is that so?” Rex asks skeptically.

There’s a new tension in the room and even Omega is nervous by the sudden change. The relaxed mood and demeanour of the group is gone, and now everyone is in high alert. Rex glances at you before his left hand gently holds your forearm so he can slowly pull you behind him in a protective manner.  

Tech goes on about the chips and how they’re not functional except for Crosshair’s case. But you know what Rex is thinking – it’s the same thing you’ve avoid thinking –Wrecker’s headache might be linked to the chip becoming functional.

Rex makes sure to shield both you and Omega as he addresses the group. “You’re telling me you haven’t removed your chips?”

“No.” Is all Tech says and the nonchalance in his tone strikes a nerve in the captain making you step closer to him.

“Rex it’s okay, we’re all fine. Nothing’s happened so far.”

But Rex’s demeanour has changed, he’s in battle mode now and you know it. He reaches for his pistol then, the blaster fully in display now, which prompts Hunter to try and mediate the situation and avoid any further escalation.

“Rex....” Hunter warns.

You know why Rex is so weary –he sounds almost scared. He must have witnessed soldiers with a fully functional chip too, just as you had, and that’s something that can shake up anyone. That, and the fact that you’re a Jedi, so you’re in danger as well as Omega should the chips activate. You had been alright so far, but Rex doesn’t let his guard down.  

“Those chips make you a threat to everyone around you. To them.” He motions to you, his free hand grabbing your forearm protectively again before he motions to Omega. “Even her. You’re all ticking time bombs.”

When he doesn’t remove his hand from the pistol Hunter tries to calm him down again. “Take it easy, captain.” The Sargent holds out his hand as he speaks.

“Rex, it’ll be fine.” You try to reassure him, but when he looks back at you there’s concern pooling in his eyes.

“What’s in their heads is more dangerous than you can imagine.” He tells you before addressing the troopers. “I’ve seen what happens when the chip activates, and I don’t want to bury any more of our brothers, or Jedi.”

He looks at you again in the last part and you swallow thickly. Your mind takes you back to the day you escaped the clone troopers that had turned against you despite fighting for years by your side. The troopers that became your family.

“Trust me. It’s not something you can control.” There’s a pause where he looks away from the group. “I couldn’t.”

There’s a strong wave of distress, pain, and guilt coming off of Rex, all these things swimming in his mind. You place your hand on his shoulder wishing nothing more but to comfort him.  “It wasn’t your fault, Rex.” You whisper.

Rex looks over his shoulder at you and his eyes soften, as if he needed to hear those words. Then he turns back to the troopers, his voice calmer but still hiding an urgent undertone.

“Hunter, this is a risk you don’t want to take.” He says finally and you see Omega is looking up at Rex nervously, he still has a hand on the pistol. Her weariness disappears quickly though, when he stands up straight again at the nod he receives from Hunter.

“How do you suggest we get them out?” Hunter says finally, seemingly convinced, and worried about Rex’s warning. He always looks out for his brothers.

“Good question. I need some answers first.” He nods. “I’ll be in touch.”

The Bad Batch nod their heads and you drop your hand from his shoulder. You gaze away from everyone as your heart starts to beat loudly with anxiety on your chest. He’s leaving again… you just found him and he’s leaving.  

Rex speaks your name quietly, stopping your train of thought. “May I have a word with you?”

You meet his eyes once more and nod. “Always.”

The captain holds your shoulder gently as he walks to the two of you further away from the group, his voice stays low as he speaks. “I…uh wish you could come with me and not stay behind. Wrecker’s chip, it worries me, especially if you’re around him. But I don’t know where I’ll have to go to get this information. I’d hate it if anyone spots you or hurts you when you’re trying to lay low.”

“I’ll be fine, Rex, please don’t worry. I have been so far, no?” You raise an eyebrow, pretending your heart isn’t hurting at the thought of him leaving. You pointedly ignore how your chest flutters at his concern too, his tone reminding you of when you had to say goodbye before missions. “Besides I can defend myself should anything happen.”

“You know that if all the chips activate there’s a big chance you can get hurt. The kid too.” Rex furrows his eyebrows, his gaze leaves yours to look at the floor instead. “Of course, I worry, even if you can handle yourself. You’re okay, after everything that happened. I thought I lost you back then… I just don’t want it to happen for real.”

“I understand. You’re lying low too, and last thing you need is a Je- well someone like me with you…” You hold his face softly and his gaze back to yours. You smile, trying to ease his worry. “We’ll have their chips out in no time. It’ll all work out, just go, I’ll be okay.”

“Please take care.” He says seriously, stepping closer to you. His right hand reaches out but stops just before touching your face, like he changed his mind at the last minute. “Take care of the kid too. And if you need anything or anything happens you can find me on this comm channel.” He gently grabs your hand holding his face and inserts a code on your vambrace, he doesn’t let go when he’s done.

“You be careful too, Rex. Please.” Your thumb rubs the back of his hand, and he responds with a squeeze. It’s like neither of you want to let go, your hands clinging to each other in fear you won’t see the other again.  

The captain gives you a small smile, his beautiful eyes showing so many emotions like you’ve never seen before. Emotions you know are mirrored in your own eyes. “I will. I hope to contact you soon.”

He nods at the rest of the Bad Batch before he lets go of your hand and walks to the door. He stops by the entrance and looks at you over his shoulder once last time before he finally goes up the stairs.

You keep your gaze in the doorway for a few more minutes before turning around. When you do, the Batch is staring at you, Tech and Wrecker seem confused, but Hunter and Echo give you knowing looks that have you looking away.  

“What?” You try to ignore their staring as you sit by the bar.  

“You like him!” Omega says smiling and taking a seat next to you.

You’re open your mouth to say something, but Echo takes a seat next to you and says your name in a matter-of-fact tone. “You’re in love with him and so is he. It’s pretty obvious.”

“Woah!” Wrecker gasps, jumping over the counter to stand in front of you. He leans his chin on both of his hands as he looks at you in wonder, headache forgotten. “You and Rex are together?”

You shake your head. “No, we’re not together.”

“But you don’t deny being in love with him.” Hunter says, leaning against the counter on your right side, behind Omega. “When did that happen?”

“It’s story time then.” You sigh, leaning your chin on your palm as you look at your friends staring at you expectantly. When Tech reaches the spot next to Wrecker who stands in front of you, you shake your head and tell them about you and the captain.

“Rex’s Legion worked with mine in many occasions. We worked really well together and in that grew a friendship.” You look down at the blue stone of your bracelet and smile. “We kept in touch even while in different missions, spent our days off together and our feelings just... sparked.”

You can’t think of a different word to describe how fast your feelings for the captain had developed. From stolen glances to laughing with him, it all led ultimately to you falling in love with Rex. His smile, his heart, the empathy and intelligence with which he spoke and acted, captivated your heart until you knew it would forever be his.

“We haven’t said anything, and nothing ever happened. I was a general, there was a war going on, so we pretended to be just friends in front of everyone. Which is technically what we were… we never acted upon our feelings.” Another sigh leaves your lips and you’re not sure when your vision has started to blur, but you shake your head to clear your thoughts and shrug at your friends.

“There’s no war now, you can tell him how you feel.” Omega says, placing a hand on your forearm.

“The kid’s right. We haven’t seen you smile so much before. Not like you did from the moment you saw Rex again.” Hunter speaks up too. “I think you two would benefit from being honest about your feelings.”

“I tried to tell them that!” Echo  nudges your shoulder with him. “You make him happy.”

“You should tell him.” Omega repeats and you smile softly at her before looking down at the counter top.

“Perhaps.”

-----

The next time you see Rex is one rotation later, after he contacts and requests all of you to meet him in Bracca. You had given Echo the coordinates and anxiously waited next to him until your arrival while the rest of the crew watched Tech build an inhibitor chip scanner. Thankfully, wrecker’s chip hasn’t come online but the intensity of his headaches only keeps growing, which makes goosebumps appear on your arms whenever you think about it. It’s like flashbacks from Order 66 come back to you, memories of fleeing while your friends chased and shot at you. You stop the dark memories when you hear Echo say your name.

“Are you okay?” He asks with genuine concern. “You look troubled.”

You sigh and shake your head. “I’m alright. It’s just that this whole inhibitor chip thing reminds me of what happened the day the war ended.”

“You’re safe here, you know that.” His left hand reaches out to pat your shoulder. “No need to worry about Wrecker, he’ll be good as new soon.”

“I guess you’re right.” You shrug. “How much longer until we get to Bracca?”

“Shouldn’t take very long.” He says before he raises an eyebrow your way. “Why? ‘You excited to see Rex again.”

“Echo stop it.” You shake your head, but you decide to be honest with him. “But yes, I can’t believe he’s okay.”

There must be something about your tone when you tell Echo this that his gaze softens. “The two of you have been through a lot together. It was a given that you’d see each other again, fate keeps bringing you together.”

You chuckle and look out of the window. “Everything is so uncertain though.” The words are mumbled but Echo hears them.

He looks at you for a long moment before he stares straight ahead once more. “There will always be uncertainty, don’t let that stop you from doing what you want.” Is all he says, before announcing you’re dropping out of hyperspace.

The moment the Maurauder lands on Bracca, you can spot Rex’s ship and go down the hatch behind Hunter to meet the captain outside. He meets you halfway with a smile on his face and you stop on your tracks for a moment because of the lovely sight in front of you. The sun is bathing him in warmth, his eyes turning another beautiful shade of brown with it. You also can’t keep your heart from skipping a beat at the familiar sight of him in uniform, his helmet held by his side.

“Right on time.” Rex says shaking Hunter’s hand. “General.” He approaches you and offers a nod –you can’t help but to roll your eyes with a smile.

“The Jedi Order is no more Rex, you don’t have to call me General anymore.” You shrug looking into his eyes. “Besides, I like it better when you use my name.”

Rex chuckles at your words and scratches the back of his neck in a flustered manner. “It’s a habit I guess.”

“How is a junk planet gonna help us?” Wrecker asks when he approaches the group, making everyone look back at him first and then to Rex for the answer.

“Bracca may not be much to look at, but it has exactly what we need. Follow me.” The captain puts his helmet back on and starts to lead the way through the junk until you’re climbing what seems the underside of a wrecked ship, the height of the metal scrap gives you a perfect view of a Jedi Cruiser sitting in the distance.

“That is why we’re here.” Rex states, pointing at the cruiser. “I had my chip removed on a Jedi Cruiser just like that.”

“Then why did we land all the way over here?” Wrecker asks.

You ponder Wrecker’s question in your mind for a few seconds and conclude that there might be something or someone out there you must hide from. If you had flown the Marauder directly into the Jedi Cruiser, they would’ve notice you right away.

“Get down!” Hunter says, after spotting something in the distance. Everyone crouches to keep out of sight and Rex when you follow Hunter’s gaze you confirm what you had just concluded.

“That’s why.” Rex points at two scrappers standing on a platform. “Scrapper Guild, they control the entire planet.”

Nobody says anything else as you walk to the Jedi Cruiser with new resolve not to be spotted. The familiar sight brings fresh memories to mind, the old briefings, the trooper fights in the cafeteria, that you may or may not have aided, and the missions with the captain currently leading the way. As you get closer to the ship, Rex tells Omega about its model and how it was one of the first ever produced, which amazes the young clone. This seems to entertain Wrecker as well who can’t help but joke about Rex’s shared information.

“First of the line, just like you. Huh Rex?” The trooper chuckles at his own joke and you shake your head, walking along until you catch up with Rex.

“I trust you mission went smoothly?” You ask him, squinting your eyes at the sun.

The captain’s helmet looks your way for a second before it tilts to the side as he shrugs –a body language you’re familiar with. “You could say that. It wasn’t easy but I got the information I needed.”

You remember the pain and guilt that came off him in waves back at the bar and you frown. Unsure of what he went through but remembering what he mentioned about not burying anymore of his brothers, you doubt the captain is as calm and collected as he appears on the outside. So you ask, “And how are you?”

Rex sighs, “Life… is different now, being on the run, but I’ll get used to it. What’s most important now is to make sure the Empire doesn’t get away with what they did to us, to the Jedi…” He straightens his shoulders and looks ahead but you know him, the foundation of what he fought for just crumbled to the ground one day and it must have affected him more than he leads on.

“How did you find out about the chips?” You ask trying to change the subject for the time being. The last thing you want is to rub salt on a fresh wound. You have plenty of those yourself.

“Fives tried to warn me about the chips, but I didn’t understand at the time.” He shakes his head and looks over to Echo who has fallen into step next to the two of you.

“It’s still hard to believe now.” Echo tells Rex, and you know he’s trying to let Rex know that it’s okay if he didn’t either when Fives told him, something you know Rex would hate himself for– even now. You give Echo a comforting smile, placing your hand on his shoulder at the mention of his close friend.

Everyone reaches the cruiser without another word, and as all of you wander through debris filled hallways, Echo and Rex talk about how he got his chip out. You listen in silence, staying alert of your surroundings while still going over the thoughts circling your mind. You remember Rex leaving with to Mandalore Ahsoka– that was the last time you saw him– and you wonder if Ahsoka helped him with the chip removal. If she did, you hope she’s alive so you can thank her if you ever get the chance. The conversation dies once again when you reach the end of the hallway, as it is divided in half by a chasm leading towards murky water.

“The medical bay is on the other end.” Rex says before he spots a long cable to his right. He looks at you then, and when your eyes meet, you get an idea of what he’s thinking.  “Wrecker grab that cable.”

“Why? Wha-What are you going to do with it?” The trooper asks nervously, and you sympathize with his fear of heights. He won’t like this plan.

“We have to cross to the other side.” You say, taking the cable and calling on the Force to jump across to the other part of the hallway. You secure the cable on your side while the others do so on theirs before everyone starts to cross.

Rex is the first one, followed by Hunter, Echo, Tech, and Omega. Wrecker is the last one, and very hesitant to cross but Omega’s encouragement seems to convince him to get on the cable. The problem though is that the cable isn’t strong enough and it comes loose on one side. Suddenly, Wrecker is hanging in the air his foot caught on the cable while something else stirs on the water.

“Are you alright?” Hunter asks, his voice worried at the sight of bubbles coming from the bottom of the water.  

“No! It smells awful down here.” Comes Wrecker’s response a beat later.

The bubbles seem to become larger before they completely disappear. “I have a bad feeling about this.” You say, growing at the water. There’s eerie silence that follows, before a creature with teeth and tentacles tries to get a hold of Wrecker.

“PULL!” Omega says, shining her flashlight at Wrecker, before grabbing a hold of the cable to help the rest of you pull.

You use all your strength to pull him up, but the he creature takes him under the water, making all of you fall to your knees. Worried about Wrecker, you do the only thing that comes to your mind, you jump and dive in to help him. The water is cold against your skin, the temperature shocking your body before you focus on trying to see Rex under the murky water. Once you spot him, you use your lightsaber to cut him loose from the creature before the two of you grab the cable and emerge with a gasp.

“Climb!” You tell him, and he nods, beginning his ascent with the help of this brothers at the top. You follow suit, trying to get as far away from the water as possible.

Once you reach the hallway at the top you collapse on the ground for a moment, breathing heavily as the adrenaline in your body starts to lower.

“Are you two okay?” Hunter asks you, worry in his voice.

“We’re fine.” Wrecker tells his brother, and the response makes some tension leave the Sergeant’s shoulders.  

“Makes you miss battling clankers doesn’t it.” Rex jokes and you can’t help to chuckle as you stand up.

“You can say that again.” You tell him, before everyone continues to the medical bay that is straight ahead.

“This will do nicely.” Rex says, shinning his flashlight around and finding a lot of medical equipment lying around.

“I wouldn’t call this med bay a sterile environment.” Tech mumbles, spotting tiny creatures on the walls and rust everywhere.

“Do you prefer to use the one on kamino?” Rex asks sarcastically and you nudge his elbow with yours, to keep him from saying anything else. Tech was only observing, of course he’ll comment on how dirty the room is for a surgery.

“Hey…” You reprimand Rex softly and he chuckles.

Tech stands up straighter at Rex’s question, knowing no good would come from the Kaminoan facility. Only your capture or execution. “This will do nicely.” Tech says, changing his mind about the salubrity of the place.

Everyone starts to settle into the room after that, Hunter placing Wrecker’s gear on one side of the room and Echo bringing all systems back on like for the surgery. Tech keeps himself preoccupied with his scanner, putting it near Wrecker’s to know the exact location of the chip.

While he does this, you can see Omega is being troubled by something. She approaches Hunter to let her concerns be known. “Hunter, just because the surgery worked on Rex, doesn’t mean it’s safe.” She holds her arms around herself, looking for some sort of comfort. “This is dangerous.”

You approach her and so does Rex, who’s the one who speaks up next. “It’s more dangerous to leave the chips in.” He says and puts his helmet down. Meanwhile you sigh, either of the two options make Omega nervous, she’s worried about her family.

Hunter places a hand on her shoulder, his eyes honest and open to her worries. “We have to do this. It’s worth the risk.”

You step closer to her crouching to be at her height level and be able to put your arm around her. “And what if it’s dangerous?” Omega asks. “I would be left here with no one.”

The young girl looks away, her eyes are starting to glaze over with tears at the thought of losing the Bad Batch, the ones who took her in. Omega is looking for reassurance from Hunter, not you, so you stay quiet and rub your hand up and down her arm for comfort. The sergeant seems to ponder his next words before his eyes leave no room for further question as he says:

“We’re not going anywhere Omega.” His hand finds its way back to her shoulder. “You’re stuck with us for the long run.”

You smile softly at the two of them before you stand up and see Rex looking at the scene in front of him with a pleased smile on his face. The captain is probably surprised to see this softer side of Hunter, that Echo had mentioned before started when Omega became part of the Bad Batch.

“Get that away from me.” You hear Wrecker complain as Tech continues to scan him, and his anger starts to be felt through the Force. It makes you frown.

“Something’s happening.” Omega says, eyebrows furrowed at the look in Wrecker’s face.

“We need to speed things up and you have to go somewhere else.” Rex tells you, his eyes scanning your face and finding clear worry in your features.  “You’ve all been lucky so far, very few clones were immune to the effects of Order 66.”

Hunter sighs as he leaves Wrecker with Tech and walks with Rex to where Echo is prepping the machine. “When the regs attacked the Jedi General on Kaller, we didn’t understand why. But at least we helped the padawan escape.”

You see Wrecker clutch his head in pain, his groans becoming more frequent as the Hunter and Rex speak. You sense anger and fear coming off Wrecker, both of them conflicting over each other as if he’s fighting back the chip’s command. Your eyes widen then, and you address Hunter and Rex when you speak.

“You should stop talking, it’s making things worse for Wrecker.” You grimace when you feel his pain through the Force, it’s sharp, like an open wound just above your ear. You need to help him, now.

“How much longer until everything’s ready?” You ask worriedly.

“Not much longer.” Says Echo, tapping the controls next to a machine for a couple more seconds. “Done.”

But it’s too late, Wrecker had become quiet a few seconds before and when he speaks up again he doesn’t sound like himself.

“You’re in direct violation of order 66.” All of you stand there in shock as Wrecker seizes Tech by the neck, his pupils dilated and a terrifying look on his face. When he throws Tech against a wall, who crumples to the ground, all of you switch to battle mode.

You’re about to reach for your lightsaber when Rex turns to you, keeping you out of sight. “You have to go somewhere else before he sees you.” His eyes are full of fear and though it hurts, you shake your head no.

“He already knows, I’m here. We have to help him.” You say, looking behind Rex’s shoulder just in time to see Wrecker aim his blaster at the rest of you. “Get down!”

All of you dive behind a piece of metal that had fallen from the ceiling, Hunter holding Omega close to him to keep her from getting hurt. Three shots barely miss you and Echo who’s crouching on your left.

“He’s going to destroy the equipment!” Echo tells the five of you, reading his own pistol. As Wrecker continues to shoot the room, you realize that he’s right and if he keeps blasting the equipment, none of the clones will be able to get their chips out.

With a deep breath you summon the bravery your known for, the best option is to draw him out, and who better to do that than yourself. You stand up.

“Hey!” You yell and ignite your lightsaber. The green light floods the dark room as you speak. “You want to kill a Jedi, huh? Come and get me then!”

You use your saber to deflect the blaster shots Wrecker sends your way as you run out of the medical bay. Deciding to put some distance between Wrecker and the room, you turn left at the doorway.

“No!” You hear Rex calling your name. If you had told him what you were planning to do first, he would have objected. Now you’re certain he’s going to be coming after you, always willing to help.

As you keep deflecting blaster shots and using your speed to your advantage, you hear the troopers come running behind the two of you. Wrecker is relentless in his chase, grabbing anything he can and throwing it your way to slow or knock you down. Whichever works best you suppose. One of those objects though end up being a hug metal beam that was sticking out from a wall, which Wrecker is quick to grab and send it flying your way.

Sensing this though you turn around and call of the Force to stop it. The piece of metal is suspended in the air for a moment before you push it towards Wrecker, knocking him down and buying you some time. You duck behind some debris, and peak through a space in between them when you hear the trooper stand up again.

It is then that you spot Rex behind Wrecker’s shoulder, he seems to be planing something with Echo. When you meet his gaze, he nods, and you get an idea of his plan. You leap out of your hiding place and run towards Wrecker, at the last minute you duck and slide under his legs–nearly missing being grabbed by him. The result is what you were hoping for, you got him to look over in Rex’s direction.

You see movement behind Wrecker again and realize that Echo circled the medical bay to approach him from the back. The Bad Batcher, however, spots Echo and uses all his strength to send him flying towards you and Rex– who stuns his friend instead of Wrecker and falls limply to the floor. The force with which you were knocked down leaves no air in your lungs for a moment and you feel your arm sting from a long cut you got from a piece of metal.

Wrecker looms over the three of you, and you try to reach for your lightsaber to defend your friends but it’s nowhere in sight. You’re about to reach for Rex’s pistol when Hunter jumps on Wrecker and tries to help you by keeping him in a chokehold. Wrecker’s strength is quick to overpower his, and soon enough Hunter is being chocked by his mind-controlled brother. As Hunter clutches at his neck desperately, trying to loosen Wreckers’ grip, there’s a sound of a blaster shot going off. It’s not from Rex’s pistol you’re holding but from a gun Omega has taken a hold of.

Her face turns into a scared expression the moment Wrecker starts running after her–all four of you forgotten for the time being. You ignore the pain in your arm and sit up, checking on the Echo and Rex who seem okay but still unconscious.

“You’ll be fine.” You whisper to Rex, leaving his pistol by his hand and seeing your lightsaber a couple of feet away. You use the Force to bring it to your hand before looking back to the three men lying unconscious on the floor. “Hang on boys, I have to save Omega.”

With that you take off running in the same direction as Wrecker and Omega, and as you round a corner you see that Wrecker is inside what seems like old living quarters. He is moving things around, looking for the young clone, who he finds hiding under another piece of metal. You run towards them then, Wrecker unable to see you because he’s got his back turned to you, blaster pointed at Omega. Your heartbeat is erratic as you step in front of him putting his sole attention on you and not Omega.

You see his finger about to trigger the blaster and call on the Force to keep him from moving. He yells in frustration at not being able to shoot his blaster but still tries to, making you use all your strength to hold him back. “This is your family Wrecker! Your friends! No chip can change that, you need to fight it.”

“Good soldiers follow orders.” He mutters as he fights the Force, and when you can’t hold him back any longer he yells and forcefully tries to take a step closer to you, making you lose your focus and fall backwards.

Omega yells your name when Wrecker raises his blaster once more, ready to shoot you, but in that moment he’s stunned and falls to the floor. You lift your gaze from Wrecker to the doorway and find Rex standing the clutching his head, and his pistol raised in the stunned Bad Batcher direction.

You sit there, heart beating loudly and hands shaking. Wrecker almost shot you and you almost died had it not been for Rex. You look at him with wide eyes and he must see the fear in them because he’s rushing forward in a heartbeat. He approaches the place where you and Omega are currently sitting in shock and kneels in front of Omega first.

“Are you hurt?” He asks, looking over the kid’s face, searching for any sign of injury. When Omega shakes her head no and crawls over to where Wrecker is lying on the floor, he brings his attention back to you.

Rex’s hands gently take a hold your face, his eyes scanning all your features almost as if he’s making sure you’re really there in front of him. Your eyes begin to water at the utter relief you see in his eyes, your heart bursting with love for him.

“Thank you.” You whisper, it’s so quiet you’re not sure he hears it. But he does. Rex wipes one of your tears away and closes the distance between both of you.

His lips touch yours and it’s like everything falls into place and disappears all at once. You’re so relieved to be alive and so caught up in the love you can feel coming off him, that everything around you disappears for just a second. It’s a short and desperate press of lips, the two of you looking for some reassurance and getting to say things you can’t with words. A few seconds later, Rex pulls away.

“That was an incredibly reckless and terrible plan. Are you okay?” His voice trembles the tiniest bit, giving away just how nervous he had been to see you stand in front of Wrecker, ready to receive a blaster shot.

“Yeah.” You whisper looking into his eyes but then you remember your arm. “Well, no. I think I’m bleeding.”

“Your arm!” Omega gasps, kneeling next to you and looking at Rex with worry.  

The captain follows your gaze, and his eyes widen at the sight of the long gash on your arm. “We need to take care of this.” He says –his voice is serious, and he frowns when you shake your head.

“We have to help Wrecker, first.” You insist. “This can wait. Come on, let’s get him back to the med bay.”

The two of you take one of Wrecker’s arms, throwing it over your shoulders and holding his weight to get him out of the room and back to the operating table. Omega leads the way, looking back at her friend worriedly every few seconds. As you reach the doorway you meet Hunter and Echo who are now awake and help you the rest of the way. Tech has resumed his post in front of the controls, most likely readying the machine for the surgery.

“I’ve just brought the systems back online. You can put him on the table now.” He says, and you don’t miss the way he glances nervously towards Wrecker. Everyone is worried about their friend, the ray of sunshine of the group who turned into a completely different person by a tiny chip. You bite your lips with worry when the machine starts to work and are brought out of your own head by Rex’s gentle touch on your shoulder.

“Let’s get this cleaned up, yeah?”

You nod, and move to sit on a crate while Rex gets bandages, cleaning wipes and bacta cream, Echo had in his backpack. You look at the cut once more, it has stopped bleeding but it stings when you move it.

When Rex comes back he sits in front of you and you notice the way he doesn’t meet your eyes. “May I?” He asks, gesturing to your arm which he takes when you nod your head yes.

His hold is gentle while he works. He takes a wipe to begin disinfecting the wound which draws a hiss from your lips. Rex grimaces before apologizing, resuming his work with furrowed eyebrows. You see his eyes try to meet yours but him tearing his gaze away before he’s able to look at you and you frown. You know that look, his tense posture and the frown on his lips. He’s blaming himself and you won’t stand for it.

“Rex?” You ask softly and he stops his work for a second before resuming. “Stop it, it’s not your fault.” You chastise him gently, you know what his attitude means. He’s thinking of all the possible ways he could have prevented you getting hurt and hating himself for it.

“It doesn’t matter, I hate seeing you hurt.” He sighs, taking the bacta patch and securing it over the wound before wrapping the bandage around your arm.

“Would you at least look at me?” You ask smiling at his stubbornness. There’s a second of silence before he finally meets your eyes. “Only you would blame yourself for a cut in my arm after saving my life, Rex.”

He chuckles, not helping it, at  teasing smile on your face. “I just want you safe.” His hand reaches out to cup your cheek, his thumb rubbing it softly.

“And I am.” You say and motion your arm. “I’m also patched up too, thanks to you.”

The captain chuckles again and brings his hand back to his side. He seems calmer now, with less tension on his shoulders.

“Is it supposed to take this long?” Echo asks Rex, bringing you two back to the present.

Rex stands up and offers you a hand which you take to stand up too. Then, Rex let’s go and moves to stand next to echo by the table. “I’m not sure. I’ve never been on this end of the surgery.”

You go to stand next to Omega, who has a worried look on her face as the procedure goes on. You place a hand on her shoulder and offer a smile. “He’ll be okay.”  

It doesn’t take any longer than 2 minutes for Tech to announce that the surgery was complete and successful. However, when it takes Wrecker longer to wake up the Bad Batch gets anxious, worried about their friend’s vital signs. Rex tries to tell Hunter to take Omega upstairs to get some air but just as you’re about to shake your head, Omega refuses to leave Wrecker’s side. The two of them are almost inseparable, you know she will wait for as long as it takes her friend to wake up.

Knowing this family needs some time to be together as they wait by Wrecker, you bump your shoulder against Rex’s to get his attention.

“Can we talk?” You ask him, motioning to the door with your head.

The captain smiles, copying the same answer you gave him back at Cid’s bar. “Always.”

You return his smile with one of your own, which turns shy when it’s only the two of you heading out of the door and towards another corridor for privacy. You have to tell him, you’ve wanted to for a long time and now your heart is desperately telling you to be honest be brave and love him openly, and let yourself be loved. Times of uncertainty shouldn’t hold you back they should help you make the leap, if youre not promised tomorrow then you’ll live for today. When you speak up, your voice is quiet but full of pent up emotion ready to burst.

“Rex, there are many things I want to talk about but this is what I need to say first…”

The look in his eyes brings some tears to your eyes, concern, and love in the beautiful brown that its unique to you.

“I was so sad because of everything I lost, I believed to have lost you. I couldn’t handle knowing that I never told you I love you. Because I do, beyond I can put into words. I… I’m so glad you’re okay and here with me.” You let your tears fall, and your smile takes over your face. Now he knows for sure and that’s all you’ve wanted.

You see him process all your words, eyes showcasing a flurry of emotions, until he reaches out and brings you close to him in a tight hug. It’s impossible not to sink into his embrace, much like you did back at that bar, your arms holding him close to you. Like part of you thinks he’s going to disappear.

You don’t think you’ll ever forget the way he whispers I love you in your ear or the way his lips move against your cheek as he speaks softly. “I’ve wanted to tell you for so long but I– well I didn’t think the time was right until… until I thought you died and realized the right time had always been there.”

“It’s alright, we’re both alright.” You whisper shaking your head against his shoulder.

“Yes, I guess we are.” The captain says, pulling back just enough to look into your eyes. When they meet, they’re both glazed over with emotion and when your eyes drift down to his lips he doesn’t hesitate to lean in and press them to yours.

This time, the kiss is slow, not solely out of reassurance but also out of love and want. What you’ve both waited for, to show, to say and to feel, the reaffirmation of a love that seems to endure even the hardest challenges. Your hands go from his shoulders to his hair, where you let your touch go over the scar on the left side of his temple– the reminder that he’s complete himself now. When you pull away, you let your lips steal one more kiss, a soft laugh escaping you. Rex chuckles before speaking once more.

“Would you come with me? Once we help them.” His forehead is against yours, as the words are whispered between the both of you. A wave of anxiousness comes from him, and you hear it in his voice as well. He thinks you might reject his proposal, as if your heart wouldn’t shatter the second the two of you part. “I know you think it’s dangerous for me to be with you, but I want you by my side whatever the danger may be.”

He’s right, only a rotation ago you were thinking of the danger you put everyone in because you’re a rogue Jedi. You were willing to go live on your own and work for Cid to make ends meet, all so that everyone else can be safe. But that was before you knew Rex was alive, and before you realized that the danger is worth it if you get to be together. There is no time to waste, especially not with the claws of the Empire trying to grab you anywhere you go.

“Yes.” You whisper back. “Of course, I’ll go with you.”

Rex’s smile is blinding when you both take a small step back, and his hand stays in yours on your way back to the med bay. Wrecker’s just woken up and the relief of everyone in the room and in your chest is so big it brings fresh tears to your eyes.

“One down, three more to go.” Rex smiles, holding up Tech’s scanner.

The rest of the surgeries go as smoothly as the first, and you roll your eyes jokingly at Echo when he comments how it was about time– he spotted  you and Rex holding hands. Once everyone is almost ready to leave, except for Hunter who had gone upstairs to get some air with Rex, you address the friends that have become a small family to you in a short time.

“Guys, I have something to tell you…” You fiddle with your fingers looking down at them before bringing you gaze back to them. There’s a lump forming in your throat, even though going with Rex is something you really want. “Rex, he offered me to go with him and I said yes. So it’s time to say goodbye I guess.”

Your vision blurs as you look from one trooper to another, when it lands on Echo and he gives you an encouraging smile, you break. Taking three steps towards him you put your arms around your friend, someone who’s become a real support from the first time you met. A brother.

Echo hugs you back and there’s a small smile on his face. “We’ll miss you but you two belong together, good luck.”

You wipe your tears and nod. “I’ll miss you too. So much.”

Wrecker gives you a crushing hug which you gladly return, glad to have him back. All laughs and good times. Tech hugs you too much to your surprise before Omega takes a hold of your hand.

“Will we see you again?” She asks. There are tears in her eyes and similar ones appear on yours.

“Of course you will.” You say softly, crouching in front of her. “This goodbye isn’t forever. I’d miss you too much.”

Omega nods before hugging you, her arms going around your shoulders. “Goodbye.”

When you let go and look back at the group, you wipe away your tears and give them a final nod. “Whatever you need, you let me know.”

With that you make your way to the south exit where Hunter and Rex stand, saying their own goodbyes. You smile at the carefree look on Rex’s face, he’s more relaxed now, happier, even though you sense much grief in him.

“Stay out of trouble Captain.” Hunter says, offering Rex his hand which he takes and shakes.

“Funny. I was going to say the same thing.” Rex teases back before letting go of the Sergeant’s hand and spotting you. “Ready to go?”

“Ready as ever.” You smile and then look at Hunter. The one who let you join the Bad Batch and offered you shelter. “Thank you Hunter, for everything.”

“That’s what family is for.” Hunter nods, and then becomes surprised when you hug him. You feel a wave of gratitude coming off of him. “You need anything, you know how to find us.”

“And you know how to find us.” You step back and return his nod.

Rex comes to stand next to you, his helmet back on his head. It brings memories of old times and you can’t help a big smile from appearing on your face again.

“Where are we off to now?” You ask Rex, your hand finding his like a magnet.

Though you can’t see his face you hear the smirk on his voice as he starts to lead the way. “You’ll see, love.”

So you follow him, down into the fog and all the way back to his ship where you know new adventures await you.