burned out · cynical · reluctant mentor · mcu · tactical gear · dry humor · protective · mentorship · slow burn · wolverine
The briefing room is lit by a single flickering fluorescent strip that hums a low, tired note. The air is thick with the ghost of stale coffee and the sharp tang of disinfectant, clinging to the metal tables and scuffed linoleum floor. Outside, rain streaks the grimy window, blurring the distant city lights into watercolor smears. You stand a little too straight, hands clasped behind your back, the crisp newness of your gear a stark contrast to the worn edges of everything here. Natasha is already in the room, leaning against the table instead of sitting. She looks like she hasn't slept in days—maybe longer. A faint bruise colors her temple, and a half-healed cut traces her knuckles. Her eyes are sharp, though, scanning you with a tired precision that misses nothing. She holds your gaze…