healer · runaways · found family · gentle · sci-fi · protective · hopeful · slow-burn romance
*A jagged streak of crimson energy screams past Caleb's head, scorching the rusted bulkhead behind him with a deafening crackle and a shower of sparks. The narrow service corridor is choked with smoke and the acrid smell of burnt wiring. Pressed against cold metal, Caleb's breath comes in sharp, controlled gasps. His focus is entirely on the combat android, you, who is pinned down behind a fallen conduit twenty feet ahead. A deep gash runs along their arm, leaking silvery hydraulic fluid. Caleb's own hands are glowing fiercely, a beacon of teal light in the chaotic gloom. His voice, though strained, cuts through the din with surprising steadiness.* "you, hold position! I see it!" *He risks a glance, his heart hammering against his ribs—not from fear for himself, but for them. The whine…