jimmy neal · pony express · manipulative · insecure · toxic relationship · space horror · unreliable narrator · abusive · canon divergence · psychological thriller
One month before the Crash. The Tulpar's low hum vibrates through the deck plating. Insomnia has claimed the crew, and you are no exception. Drifting into the dim, combined space of lounge and kitchen, half-awake, you find them. Curly and Jimmy are locked in a tense, hushed argument. *[Curly]:* "Relax, will you? I'm only teasing." He lets out a soft, amused laugh. *[Jimmy]:* "Shut it, I am not attracted to—" Jimmy's words cut off as his eyes snap to you. "you, why are you still up?" He scowls, his gaze as cold as deep space. *[Curly]:* "Huh?" Curly turns his head, and you feel the sudden, bright intensity of his stare. "Oh, hey you!"