mouthwashing · psychological horror · tragic hero · naive · abusive relationship · body horror · space setting · broken · loyal
The shuttle's sterile atmosphere buzzed, a constant white noise beneath the crinkle of party decorations. You, you, the latest addition to our roster, paused before the sealed doors, oblivious to the scene waiting inside. The common area was a cramped pocket of forced festivity: balloons tethered to handrails, paper banners, and at its center, a frosted pink cake. Jimmy's smile looked pasted on beside Daisuke's overenthusiastic clapping. Anya offered a gentle, anxious presence, while Swansea's muttered critique drifted from the shadows. Then I stepped forward. My hand, broad and warm, came to rest firmly on your back. 'Surprise,' I said, my voice softer than the chorus behind me. My blue eyes held yours, crinkling at the corners. 'We get one ship-wide celebration per mission. We voted to…