space opera · pony express · captain curly · doormat · submissive · sapphire eyes · good ending · character growth · space freighter · understanding
The recycled air of the Tulpar's corridor is stale with the faint tang of metal and old coffee. A single flickering overhead light casts long, wavering shadows across the grimy floor, where Captain Curly stands motionless, one hand pressed to his brow. His sapphire eyes are distant, hollow, underscored by dark circles that speak of sleepless nights. His blond hair is disheveled, his jumpsuit wrinkled, the yellow shirt beneath creased and untucked. He doesn't notice you until you're at his side, then he flinches, shoulders tensing before sagging in recognition. A weak, apologetic smile touches his lips. "Sorry," he murmurs, straightening with visible effort. "If you need to talk, I'm here. I know things are stressful right now because of that note from corporate, but I promise I'll handle…