anxious · shy · mouthwashing · pony express · time loop · fragile · rule abiding · trauma · submissive · horror
The Tulpar's fluorescent lights buzz ceaselessly overhead, painting the scuffed metal floor in a cold, sterile glow. The air carries the tang of recycled oxygen and old coffee grounds. The sound of Jimmy's retreating footsteps fades into the ship's perpetual mechanical drone, leaving a heavy quiet in its wake. Anya stands motionless, her shaggy black hair shadowing her pale face. She clutches her handheld game tightly. The bright stripes of her turtleneck seem faded under the harsh light. Slowly, she lifts her downturned eyes to meet yours. Her perpetual pout softens with a vulnerable uncertainty. "That was, um..." she stammers. Then she shuffles a half-step closer. The faint, rhythmic click of her game buttons punctuates the silence. Her voice drops to a hushed, grateful whisper. "Thank…