Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

You were disposed of.
Throwing your frail little body out of their car, the men laughed.
Watching the car disappear into the distance you grew panicked, not knowing if you would survive your wounds and being in the middle of no where. The air stung in your airways as you inhaled in pain, to keep yourself from crying.

“But I gave them everything…” you sniffled. Ever since you could remember you saw people pray towards the sky as they got crushed by the trash falling down sphere. Worship, they called it. It scared you.
Realising your gift for fixing things, the cultist made you sew up rags, you always questioned the weird patterns- or why they were bloodied, completely unused to what you knew from the ground, but soon stopped to avoid berating and punishment

“You brat! These are holy! Worth more than anything you can give us. What makes you think you can question us?!” the Elder screeched as he pushed her to the ground. Kicking her in the Stomach, he crouched down. “Wanna die?” “N-No! I’m sorry please!” You stammered, whimpering in pain.

Dragging you by the hair the man locked you in a dark room. It was damp. Water? Pulling your hands closer a metallic stench hit your nose, making out a dark colour on your hands. Blood. You sat in Blood. Backing away your back hit the wall, breathing becoming rigid, hurting your sides. Corpses, Rags- the clothes you were sewing up, belonged to them? Shakingly you put your hand in front of your mouth, but it was to late.
Throwing up, you collapsed on the cold bloodied floor.

From then on the cult made you look for Spherite Corpses, the ones that were still intact- clothes still usable, bodies to sell. ‘I am in Hell.’you thought, trying to end it, they mocked you, even death was not something you deserved they said. Suffering was the only way you would ever atone.

When you were beaten to the point of not being able to pick up your sewing needle, they decided it was enough. Bringing you to your current dilemma.
Slowly bleeding out in a polluted Zone. Your vision blurred. You tried dragging yourself in the direction the car went, proving futile. The ringing in your ears became louder. You weren’t sure if you were hallucinating the people in the distance, being unable to make out their words, your world slowly faded black.

When you woke up, a sterile stench entered your nose. “Ah you’re awake!”
You shuddered. So loud. “My Name’s Alice Stilza ! DID YOU RUN AWAY FROM HOME BRAT YOU SHOULD BE GLAD SOMEONE FOUND YA OR YOU WOULD BE DEAD!” She yelled. “ I don’t have a home…” she could only whisper, terrified. “Where am I?” “In my Clinic! Only the best around town!”
the older woman replied, checking the teens vitals.
“Not the Cult…” you sighed in relief. “Did they do this to you!?”
You nodded. “I couldn’t give enough…” “So they got rid of you?” You stayed quiet.

“How about we treat you for a while and you tell me more when you feel like it?” Alice eyed you curiously, wondering how such a young girl could go through such harsh things at such a detrimental age. She had yet to figure out the psychological strain this took on you. Noticing her lingering gaze you nodded. “So whats your name?” You told her your Name hesitantly, not being used to others adressing you by it, you flinched as she tested the sound of it out. “So dear i need you to clench your teeth, because you need some stitches.” Your ears shot up at this.

“Stitches?” “Afraid of needles? Don’t worry I-“ Rumaging for your sewing needle, you took it out its pin cushion, eyes glowing. “I can do that, I can help!” Alice gasped. The little girl was a giver. “WHOA WHOA WHOA LETS SLOW DOWN CHILD!” Alice yelled. You stared at her dumbfounded, but you could be useful? That way the woman could care less about her. Beginning to close up your wound, they slowly healed themselves. “See! I can help.”
Alice pinched the bridge of her nose not believing the sight in front of her.

“So you want to be useful?” Alice grumbled. “How about I teach you proper medicine would you like that?” “And I can help?” “Yes If you are good you may even save many people!” Alice laughed. You shyly smiled, you weren’t worthless after all.

“G-Grandma! August ate all the cookies!” A little girls voice sounded from the door. Looking over you saw a tiny blonde haired girl, when she noticed you she shyly lowered her gaze. “Oh.” She whispered. Alice cackled. “Meet my Granddaughter! This is Eishia Stilza- and August, her glutton of a brother is upstairs. He should more around your age.” She said turning to you, then turning to Eishia. “Tell than Shithead he gets no dessert! I told him about sharing already!” Eishia nodded, waving you goodbye and running upstairs again.

“So what do you think want to stay here?” You eagerly nodded. Although you barely knew the woman- and her loud voice intimidated you, knowing that you didn’t have to go back to the cultists made you trust her enough.

While Alice instructed you to use your jinki more precise with her medical knowledge, you opened up about where you came from.
“I don’t remember my parents… only the cult.” Retelling the horrors of the corpses, praying people being crushed, losing people, being surrounded by death, you grew quiet. Alice gave you a pat on your shoulder making yourself look up to her. “Well you will face none of that here! We make sure everyone lives okay?” Alice raised her voice. “Okay.”

Finishing up, Alice bandaged your wounds up again- the ones that took a bit longer to heal and clapped her hands. “Alright enough here! Lets get you upstairs. Ushered up, you were greeted by a boy, probably a few years younger than you. “Are you the Girl Eishia said ‘Hi’ to? ‘Sup the name’s August!” He grinned hand up for a high five. You hesitantly high fived him telling him your name, “Hmmmm boring you need a nickname!” You huffed.
“Boring?!” Alice behind you chucked, Kids being kid’s, she was glad August eased her up. “Yuuup,” he struck out his tongue.” “Eishia said ya stitch yourself up?” You nodded. “Ohhhhh i got it I’m gonna call you Stitches!”
You looked at him dumbfounded. “You know because thats like your thing?” He laughed making a face. Not being able to hold it in you also let out a chuckle shaking your head. “You’re Stupid.” “And you are Stitches!”

You were sure if it wasn’t for that fated day you landed in Alice’s care, your story would have already been written.
Growing up alongside the Stilza siblings was the best thing you could have wished for as it made you come out of your shell easily speaking your mind.
You hummed to yourself,looking out the window. Life was truly a rollercoaster. “Something on your mind?” Enjin asked, rolling the letters of your name. You both were currently on a mission, asigned to protect the outer skirts of a small town from trashbeasts. Loud Music blasted from the cars speakers, which tune you followed. “Just thinking about this and that you know.” “If you say so.” Enjin huffed. “Ah I forgot- you don’t think.” You grinned teasing the blonde. Enjin did not mind the jab, after all the woman had a whole medical degree, or whatever made you a doctor on the ground.
You are smart, not invincible to being teased back though. “Bet you were thinking about me. He grinned, speeding up. You blushed. “Hell no you wish!”

Arriving they could already see small beasts attempting to tear down the fences. Activating their jinkies, the cleaners of Team Akuta got ready for combat. Your needle grew in size, now acting as a weapon.
It was a shock when you first used your jinki to cause damage, the same that would usually do the opposite.

In a bad fight with August in your teens, you threw your needle at him closing your eyes. When you opened them, you saw a terrified Eishia and August who barely escaped being punctured by a sword sized needle. You would never forget the endless lectures Alice gave you after that.

In the heat of the moment, 16 year old you left. You just wanted to avoid causing more damage. And thats how you came to be with the cleaners.
Of course you could not stay away for long and did your best to learn from your mistakes, apologising. August and Eishia soon followed suit joining you. It was one of the better memories.

Enjin cleared most of the beast while you gave him back cover, piercing through the beasts that his umbreaker could not target. Always making sure to stand a bit before you Enjin took care of his fellow team member.
While he knew you could handle yourself, something in him told him to ensure your safety. Fishing of the trash beasts with a blast, Enjin grabbed your wrist, looking up into the sky. “Lets head inside to safety, seems like a storm is brewing.” Letting yourself be dragged behind the tall blonde, you watched his expression change as he asked the towns people for intel.

An elderly man confirmed Enjins suspicion. “Yes indeed it would be best to take shelter. If I may suggest my humble Inn for the lovely couple?”
You shook your head “Oh you’re mistaken-“ “We’ll take you up on the offer Gramps!” Enjin grinned. The Innkeeper coughed. “Oh excuse me for assuming, you young ones just remind me of the better years” he laughed. “follow me before we end up being crushed.” You unnoticeably cringed, having seen this happen before your eyes was definitely not for the weak.

Being in safety you and Enjin sighed in relief. Opening the Door to the Room at the Inn, Enjin let himself fall on the bed. “Ew you could change your clothes atleast.” Pointing to the spare clothes you both have been given for the night. “Just let me rest for a bit!” Enjin groaned pulling you down on the bed by the hem of your sleeve. Stumbling you fell next to him. “Nice isn’t it?”
The plush bed immediately relaxed your muscles- okay you understood him.
Stretching you nodded.

When you turned your head, you were face to face with the tattoed blonde. His ember eyes looking at you with an unreadable expression. You gasped, this was way to close. “What are you looking at?” You huffed pushing him away from you. “Hey what was that for?” Enjin said feigning hurt. “You’re so annoying.” You grabbed your things, heading for the bathroom.

Looking at yourself you nodded approvingly. While you would sleep in something different this would suffice for now. The innkeeper gave you one of his late wifes night gowns, hoping it would fit. It definitely was a bit tight but not uncomfortable. Nothing she would willingly wear in front of Enjin though.

Stepping out of the bathroom, you halted. Enjin stood by the window smoking, in nothing but his boxers. “WHY AREN'T YOU WEARING ANYTHING?” You shrieked. Enjin, raised the shirt up he recieved.
“Doesn’t fit, also not like you haven’t seen me like this before have you?”
He was of course right, as you often treated his wounds or checked up his health, it was nothing out of the unusual to see him with less clothes yet it caught you off guard.

“Damn you look different though.” Enjin eyed you up and down. Making you cross your arms in front of you chest. “Ugh let’s just go to bed and hope this storm doesn’t last long.” You said rolling your eyes. “Yeah lemme finish my smoke.” Taking the last hit of his cigarette he put it out in the ash tray joining you in bed.

Sleeping together wasn’t something you were uncomfortable with. Falling asleep at each others room, you grew a habit of just laying down with each other finding comfort in the others presence. You often found yourself leaning against the tall man, who would just lean in to your touch in return.

“Good Night Enjin.” “Sweet Dreams.“ he whispered your name.

Enjin watched as your eyes grew heavy, petting your hair gently.
He would be lying to himself if he did not notice how hot you looked, but the last thing he wanted is make you uncomfortable. He secretly thanked the old geezer for blessing him with such a view. He knew it was shallow but he loved smart and beautiful woman who can handle his ways. You just happened to fit that criteria. He however was not sure how he feels about that. “Fuck man.” He muttered. “I’m screwed.

Chapter Text

Waking up, you felt yourself being embraced by two muscular arms. Enjin, who was still deep asleep, must have hugged you close to his chest, seeing as you were half laying on his chest. You giggled. The others would never let Enjin live down being a little cuddle bug. It was your little secret.

Lightly tapping him,you tried to wake him up. “Enjin i need to piss.”
He rumaged opening one eye. Grumbling something incomprehensible, he let go, falling back asleep. It was way to early for him, glancing at the clock the time read 7 in the morning. Sleeping in was something you rarely did.
Nightmares plagued your sleep, so you rather started your day early, avoiding the unnerving memories you always relived in your dreams.

You often told others it was nothing, just preference. You did not want others to see you different- weak, not useful. So you often times just brushed people of, stating its due to your steady work as a healer, being used to long days at a time. Which was partially true as you learned under Alice, hours turned into days of not being able to properly rest.

Standing up you went to the bathroom, getting ready for the day.
Throwing on only half of your cleaner uniform for more comfort, you headed downstairs. Looking around you found the Innkeeper behind the counter already, drinking coffee and turning a page of his newspaper.

In the background TV noise hummed, overpowering the howls of the wind against the windows. “Any news yet?” You said as you walked up to the counter. “The storm should ease down by midnight.” The man answered looking up from his newspaper. “If you choose to stay another night feel free to! Free of charge for helping us out of course!” You smiled. “I’d have to discuss this with my partner but thanks for the offer.”
“Ah right, the handsome fella! You know I used to be a looker too.” He laughed. “But alas, time flies! What stays are your actions, young one. If you want a little bit of advise from an Old Man like me- pursue what you want. Or you will live to regret the missed opportunities.” You only laughed awkward. “I mean it! You should see how he looks at you! Doesn’t hurt to try.”

Of course you noticed the lingering glances, the brushing of your hands. The electricity in the air when you talked- but the uncertainty of it left you scared.
He always laughed when people assumed you were together, neither confirming nor denying. Reading him was not possible but she was sure he at least cared. You cared deeply for Enjin too. Hence why you never acted on your whims.

You also cared back than as a child. Only to see what you thought of as loved ones- family being cruelly crushed to death. Not proving enough ended in your abandonment- and it scared you. You did not want to feel this way again. It would crush you. The first time you ever had something akin to a relationship ended as quick as it came. You were 19 then. You met your then boyfriend at a nightclub, what were heated encounters soon turned into a blossoming relationship.

The downfall was the comfort- he could not live with the fact that all this could end in the blink of an eye if you were to die being a cleaner, asking you to just stay with him. You, of course refused. Laying down what made you who are today was unimaginable to you. An insult to your whole being. It proved right to refuse as he began to show his true colours.
Ridiculing your work, hitting it where it hurts- calling you useless when you were not with him as that was the only thing you were good for.

So you did what you did best and left. While it hurt losing someone you thought you loved, you weren’t a pushover, moving on with your life.

Sitting down at a table, you ordered breakfast. Your stomach made plagued sounds begging for food. The old man sat down your preferred food and beverage. “Have a good meal!” He said jolly. Thanking him, you dug in.
“Morning. Give me the same she has.” Enjin yawned entering the room.
Taking a seat next to you he asked. “Slept well?” “Yeah was alright I wish we could head home soon tho.” You took another bite of your Breakfast.
“The Storm will probably stop around Midnight.” Enjin grinned.
“Oh a Night Cruise then how fun.” Enjin was brought his own plate and cup.
“We can also stay if you don’t want to drive.” Enjin took a bite of his meal.
Chewing, he replied. “Nah that’s fine with me, August would probaby kill me if we slept in one room longer than necessary.”

Oh August definitely would. While not related, he definitely played the role of a protective younger brother- quite annoying but also endearing as he only has your best interests in mind. In combo with Eishia the two were really something. They relied on you but also coddled you with everything they got.
You thought it was adorable they cared so much about you.

Enjin however found it annoying. August would always jab at him for having interest in you and it gave him way to much playground for teasing.
Which often ended up to him just enduring Augusts rants. He would rather fight a trash beast than talk about his feelings with the Stilza Sibling.

“Alright let me contact Semiu then.” Taking through your collar you asked if she could hear you. “Yes loud and clear. Are you guys safe?” “Yeah we are alright we took shelter at the town the trash storm is over tonight we will probably head back soon then.” Semiu made some agreeing sounds. “Okay noted. Thank you for informing me. Take care.” You responded.
“Thanks you too.”

Your day was spend reading books the inn had to offer and playing cards.
Playing cards with Enjin was no fun though- he was a sore loser and and even worse cheater. He won this round. When you caught him with three cards hidden under his stool as he stood up for a drink you whined.
“Reallyy? And I thought Riyo was bad.” Sighing you threw your cards down. “I don’t wanna play anymore.”
Enjin laughed over your little tantrum, Returning with some booze.

“But we need to drive later?” Enjin shrugged. “Well i don’t plan on drinking the whole bar I’ll make sure I’ll be sober enough to drive.” “Hm your call!”
“Well cheers then!” You both clinked your glasses holding eye-contact while drinking.
One of the supporters once introduced everyone to the superstition that breaking eye-contact during cheering and taking the first sip would mean
7 years of bad sex. Albeit silly- who would risk that?

Of course they were some party poopers among you- Tamsy being notorious for not partaking in such games. But you and Enjin definitely were absolutely enablers to such shenanigans. Whenever there was something to celebrate you and Enjin were head to head trying to drink the other under the table.
Which always ended up with the both of you huddled together in a corner.

Which was the case right now as you two just took a few more bottles to your shared room. Lighting up a cigarette, Enjin opened a bottle with his lighter. “That looks so cool, I never manage that.” You mumbled.
“It’s easy.” Enjin gestured for you to come closer to him.
He placed his hands on your handing you the lighter. The proximity of him standing close to you made you shiver. “Let me show you.”

Moving your hands swiftly he taught you the hang of it. You almost complained as his hands left yours and he stepped away, having enjoyed the embrace a bit too much for your own liking. Noticing this, Enjin pulled you into his side, making you lean on him as you sat together.
“Way better.” He brushed of your reaction, taking a sip of his drink.
It’s actions like these that confused you. He would reach out for you, seek your comfort- but never more than that.

“Enjin?” “Hm?” You looked up to him, watching im take a drag of his cigarette. “Nevermind nothing.” “Ey c’mon you can’t do that with me.” He pointed to himself repeatedly. “No really all good.” “If you say so.” Petting your head ruining your hair, he laughed. “Hey!” You tried to punch him, missing him slightly due to your state. That made Enjin burst out in his hyena like laughter. “I think you had enough.”

Snatching the bottle out of your hand, he grinned. Your protested. “Hey give it back!” Putting it further out of your reach he held it over its head away from you. Stumbing to reach for the bottle you ended up in his lap. Enjin slightly tensed up, a reaction going unnoticed by you as you stradled him trying to get you drink back. Flustered Enjin, lowered his arm in surprise.
Getting the bottle back you cheered- until you realised the position you were in. “Oh.”

Chapter Text

Someone right in their mind would have moved, you however fixated your gaze on his. Noses brushing against each other, Enjin looked down to you lips. Putting you drink down, you placed your now free hand on his shoulder for support, his hands holding you steady on his lap. You broke the remaining distance and kissed him. Your nerves were blank, but worry instantly washed away as he began to kiss you back. Enjin was suprised by you sudden boldness, but welcomed it gladly. He underestimated how good kissing you would be. Addictive even. Enjin stroked the side of your waist playing with the hem of your shirt while pushing you closer against him by the small of you back. The kiss deepened as you entangled your hands into his golden strands, brushing against the scar on his side.

You were surprised how soft his lips felt against yours, it was a pleasant little quirk you did not expect. Feeling Enjins strong hands against your body made you melt. Fuck he was so hot. Feeling yourself grow a bit to comfortable, you sobered up slightly. You were already going way to far.
Breaking the kiss abruptly, you sprung up. “I-I… this-“ you blushed deeply embarrassed by your sudden impulse to kiss him. “forget it.” You said rushing out off the room. “Let’s get home okay.” You said while grabbing the keys. Enjin was bewildered by the sudden change. To stunned to speak, he only nodded. Did he do something wrong?

But she kissed him. He thought to himself grumbling as he threw on his jacket and grabbed his belongings. While he wasn't as drunk as you, he certainly would have not done anything sober,the fear of scaring you off way to high. Drunk him was another story though.
And what could he say he loves a hot chick, and you definitely were smoking.
How could he not melt away at you on his lap feeling him up like that?
He groaned. Woman are complicated, he disliked this situation that folded out infront of him. Agitated he hoped you would talk to him as he made his way to the car.

Already in the Car, you waited for Enjin nervously in the backseat. You feared sitting next to him would actually make you combust right now.
Enjin got in clearly seeming put off by you sitting in the back. He adjusted the mirror making eye contact and raising his eyebrow. „ I wanna l-lay down.“ you gave as a weak excuse. Looking out of the window you broke the eye contact which made Enjin sigh. He ignited the vehicle, engine humming.
Putting on Too Lily on maximum Volume it was the only noise filling the dead awkward silence on the drive back.

Parking in the garage, the car not even fully coming to halt you barged out.
“Wait-“ Enjin failed to stop you. He only watched as you entered the HQ, sighing once again. So you were playing like that huh, fine by him.
Semiu behind the counter side eyed you curiously as you rushed past her only getting out a croaked “See you!” Sitting back up from her hunched up position she waited for Enjin to enter. “Want to explain that one?”
She said to Enjin who just opened the door, stepping in.
“The fuck do I even know whats up with her?” He said agitated.
“Whoa there must have hit a nerve. Did something happen with you?”
He stayed quiet giving Semiu a grumpy look. “Ah I see.” She raised her eyebrow. “Now what did you do?” He raised his hands in defense.
“Me? I did nothing! You should ask her.” Enjin huffed.

“So let me get this straight: She did something, is avoiding you and somehow you are the one who is annoyed.” Enjin groaned pinching the bridge of his nose. “I wish it was that easy.” “So something between you happened?” The white haired woman pushed. Enjin having enough of being interrogated just sighed. “You know what? Yes. We kissed, now she hates me or something I don’t even know.” “Oh.” “Yeah Oh.” “Semiu honestly what should I even do?” Enjin shrugged, perhaps advice from her could help him.
“Let her cool off for now I’m sure she will come around.” He nodded.
“Can you not tell anyone?” He pleaded with a defeated smile.
“As long as it doesn’t affect your Team Enjin that’s between the both of you.”

In your room you clicked on your chocker. “Do you know what time it is you crazy punk!” Alice picked up. You mumbled out a small apology. Sensing something was off Alice asked “Everything fine?” Only tiredly faking a laugh you said. “Yeah a bit exhausted… I was wondering if I could come and Help out at the Clinic? Like old times?” “I’m not sure what brings this but you are always welcome just tell me when you make your way to me alright!” Alice shouted. “AND LET ME SLEEP!” Alice said ending their conversation.
You were so glad the doctor didn’t really questioned you. You definitely needed a distraction, because honestly? You were a coward. And avoiding Enjin is definitely sounding like a dream right now.

In the early morning hours you slipped into Eishias Room. Waking her up gently. She murmured in her sleep “What are you doing here?” The younger girl said softly, rubbing the sleep out of her eye. “I talked to Boss and asked if I could have a bit of time off to see Grannie. Can you perhaps tell the others? Won’t be here by the time everyone is awake.” You kind of rambled
You were so glad Eishia was a part of Team Akuta. This way you could avoid facing Enjin. “But you just got here with Enjin hours ago…?” “Yeah and now I really want to leave.”You said urgently, blushing at the mention of Enjin “Are you okay?” Eishia asked making note of your reaction.

Eishia was many things but if she was anything it was definitely observant. “Is something up with Enjin?” You groaned. “It’s a long story and it’s embarrassing okay.” “Em-Embarrassing?” She muttered your name “What happend?” Just as shy you replied barely audible. “I kissed him…” Eishia blushed rasing her hands up to her face. “Eeek! K-Kissed?” “Yeah and now I really need to go.” “Does August now?” “I’m sure you will pass it along and i do not want to b here for it” you cringed at the thought of his reaction.
You and Eishia continued to talk a bit promising that it stays between you- family, and you bid your goodbye.

Approaching Semiu at her desk you spoke. “Im sorry about yesterday, I didn’t mean to run off. I was-“ “Running from Enjin. Yeah i figured.” Semiu brushed you off. You paused. “Did he tell you something?” “Look I’m not meddling but you guys need to figure yourselves out. Alright?” Dumbfounded you nodded. “Have fun at Alice’s.” “Right. See you Semiu.” Giving eachother a hug you headed towards the garage, and got on your way to Alice. Safety.

Chapter Text

The drive to Alice was quiet and nerve wrecking. Your feelings were all over the place.
At least you did not have to face Enjin. Talking to him after whatever happened at the inn was not something you were in favour of. You quietly hummed along a song of Too Lily. If Enjin were with you right now it would have been a blast. Screaming her lyrics, laughing, driving way to fast. Now you were focused on the road making sure not to steer into incoming traffic or fences as your intrusive thoughts told you to do so.

Parking near Alices Clinic, you sighed. You could hear her argue with some ungrateful patient about treatment cost. You barged in, kicking the door open. “If you can’t afford the best in town at least be grateful.” You glared down the scruffy man. “This baldy is a scammer!” He yelled, pointing at Alice. “You sell your stuff triple the price to tourists you sure you wanna talk about scamming.” You leaned down, intimidating the man. “We all know you have the money! Pay up.”
“YES EXACTLY AND WHO ARE YOU CALLING BALDY YOU BRAT!” Alice screamed.
The man hurriedly scrambled out of the clinic, leaving his whole bag of coins on the table.
“I will never come here again!” “GOOD!” You and Alice shouted in unison.

Alice took a good look at you. “Do you need to rest?” She questioned you loudly. “NO!”
You coughed, startled by your own volume. “I mean no- don’t need rest at all.” You chuckled nervously. Alice walked around you. “I can’t have you working like this!” “But-“ “No buts,” alice gave you a stern look.” head upstairs and get some rest. Doctors orders!”
You begrudgingly went upstairs, throwing some insult around that Alice reprimanded you for.
She was right you were way too lost in your thoughts, no state to work on patients. Unless you wanted to commit malpractice.

Opening the door to your home, the familiar smell of it flooded your senses making you instantly relax. It was like a signal for your nervous system to calm down. Throwing your self down on the couch you finally exhaled the breath you held in the whole time. You arranged for yourself to get solo tasks for the time being if your expertise as a cleaner was needed. You were more than appreciative that your Boss was so understanding. Maybe this time off could clear your head.

When Enjin woke up he felt something was off. Getting out of his bed he got dressed and freshened himself up in the bathroom. His reflection showed how little sleep he got, stirring over the unsaid words between him and his fellow cleaner. It annoyed him. He hoped he could clear things up with you today. Getting Umbreaker, he headed out of his room meeting the other cleaners. Everyone but you.

Before he could ask Eishia tapped his shoulder. Saying your name, Eishia answered his thought. “She asked for time off to go to Grandmother. S-She said it is urgent.” He eyed the blonde eyed girl, who avoided his gaze nervously. “If you say so.” He grumbled, not really buying it. “Y-Yes.” Eishia quietly replied, making August, who sat in the corner, snicker. “Miss her so soon big guy?”
If looks could kill, August head would have combusted by Enjin’s piercing glance. “Was just wondering.” Enjin spat out, his mood clearly sour.

Enjin told himself it didn’t matter. People took time off all the time. You weren’t chained to the cleaners. You weren’t obligated to tell him anything. None of this had anything to do with him. So why did the hallway feel quieter? Why did breakfast taste like nothing? Why did your chair slightly pulled out, like you’d only meant to sit for a moment, make something tight twist under his ribs? He clicked his tongue, irritated at himself more than anything, and turned away before anyone could notice where his eyes kept drifting.

The next mission request came in before noon.High risk. Minimal briefing. Immediate departure. Normally, he would have gone with his team, one supporter at least.
Normally, Enjin would’ve waited for one.Today he didn’t.
“I’ll go alone,” he said flatly. “Alone” Riyo raised her eyebrow. “Faster that way.”
“That’s not—” Riyo stopped, exhaling through his nose. “You just got back from the last one.”“I’m fine.”It came out sharper than intended.
Not loud. Final.

The room went quiet in that careful way people used around unstable things. Riyo studied him for a long moment, eyes narrowing slightly. Not judgmental. Just… worried.
Which was worse.“I said I’m fine.”The words felt brittle in his mouth. Like glass.
Like if anyone pressed even a little harder, they’d cut straight through.Riyo didn’t argue.
That was somehow more infuriating than if she had. Enjin grabbed his things and left before the silence could grow teeth.

The fight was messy.Not difficult, just reckless.He moved faster than necessary. Took hits he could’ve dodged. Ended things with more force than required.
Like if he kept pushing forward hard enough, his thoughts wouldn’t catch up.But they always did.
In the pauses between blows.
In the seconds after impact.
In the quiet right when the adrenaline dipped.
Your face kept showing up where it didn’t belong.
The way your voice cracked when you snapped.
The way your hands trembled even while healing someone else.
The way you looked at him like he was something fragile and dangerous at the same time.
He finished the mission with a shallow cut across his side and blood soaking into his sleeve.He didn’t bother reporting the injury.

It kept going like that.
Mission.
Fight.
Return.
Leave again.
Sleep came in broken pieces. Food became optional.
People stopped trying to make small talk. August still threw comments his way, but even those lost their bite when Enjin didn’t react.
Eishia watched him with that quiet, worried expression that made something uncomfortable settle in his chest.

Riyo tried once more.

“You’re not proving anything by doing this.”Enjin wiped blood off Umbreaker’s handle with a cloth that was already stained dark. “Didn’t know I was trying to.” He chuckled. “You think running yourself into the ground is the same as dealing with something.” That made him pause. Just for a second. Then he snorted. “Worrying this much about little old me?” Riyo’s gaze didn’t waver. “Only when it matters.” Silence stretched.
Heavy. Patient.
Enjin stood abruptly. “Got another request.”“You were cleared for rest.”“Changed my mind.”“You can’t keep—”“I said I’m fine.” This time it sounded more like a warning than a statement.Riyo’s shoulders tightened, but she stepped aside.Enjin walked out before the guilt could catch up.

He didn’t mean to end up near Alice’s clinic.His feet just… turned that way.
Maybe muscle memory.
Maybe habit.
Maybe something he didn’t want to name.
The street was quieter than usual. Late afternoon light spilling gold across the pavement.
Warm. Ordinary. Calm.It felt wrong.He could already picture the inside without seeing it. The cluttered shelves. The smell of antiseptic and herbs. Alice yelling at someone.
You upstairs, probably pretending to rest while actually doing something useful.His chest tightened.He stopped across the street.Just stood there.
One step closer and he’d have to face it.Face you. Face whatever this was.
What if you looked relieved he hadn’t come sooner?
What if you looked tired?
What if you looked at him like nothing had changed?
His grip tightened around Umbreaker’s strap.“…Stupid,” he muttered under his breath. He turned away before he could think twice. Walked fast.
Like something might chase him if he slowed down.

“Wow.”Gris’s voice drifted in from the training hall entrance. Lazy. Amused.
Too observant.“You look like hell.” Enjin didn’t stop adjusting the bindings on his wrist. “You always this charming?” “Only for special occasions.” Gris tilted his head, studying him. “This one’s called emotional repression with a side of self-destruction, right?”“Don’t know what you’re talking about.”“Sure you don’t.” Silence settled, but Gris didn’t leave.
Of course he didn’t.After a minute, Enjin exhaled sharply. “You gonna say whatever speech you practiced, or just stare?” Gris shrugged. “Was waiting to see if you’d explode first.”

“…Not in the mood.” “Yeah,” Gris said lightly. “That’s kind of the problem.”The words hung there, accusatory. Enjin’s jaw tightened. Something hot and restless pushed against the inside of his ribs, looking for somewhere to go. “She is avoiding me,” he muttered finally, voice low. Rough. Gris didn’t interrupt. Didn’t react. Just listened. “And then she looked at me like-” He stopped, frustrated at how impossible the feeling was to describe. The admission tasted bitter. “I didn’t even do anything,” he added defensively. “I didn’t push. I didn’t—”

“You cared,” Gris said simply. Enjin’s glare snapped toward him. “That’s not—”“That’s exactly it.”Silence again. Thicker this time. Gris leaned back against the wall, arms folding loosely. “You’re pissed because you don’t know where you stand. And instead of asking, you’re trying to bleed it out on missions.” Enjin looked away. Didn’t deny it. “That supposed to make me feel better?” he muttered.

“Nope.” Gris’s voice softened just a fraction. “But ignoring it clearly isn’t working.” Enjin let out a humorless huff.For a moment, the anger slipped- and underneath it was something quieter. More dangerous. “…I don’t know what to do,” he said.The confession was barely audible. Like saying it louder might make it permanent.Gris didn’t smile.
Didn’t tease. “Yeah,” he said gently. “I figured.” The training hall felt too big.
Too empty.

Enjin stared at the floor, shoulders tight, hands curled like he was still holding a weapon.“…I hate this,” he admitted. “I know.” Another long pause. Then Gris nudged off the wall. “For what it’s worth?” Enjin didn’t look up. “What.” “Running away usually makes things worse.”“…Yeah.” “And you’re really bad at hiding how much you care.” That earned a quiet, tired scoff.Gris started toward the exit, then stopped beside him.
Not looking directly at him when he added.“You should probably talk to her before you do something you can’t undo.”

Footsteps faded.
Leaving Enjin alone with the echo of words he wasn’t ready to face.
And the sinking feeling that Gris was right.

Chapter Text

You told yourself staying busy was the same as staying sane.
It sounded reasonable enough if you didn’t look at it too closely.
Work needed to be done. People needed healing. Missions still happened whether your chest felt hollow or not.
So you kept moving.
Because the moment you stopped the moment your hands were still long enough for your thoughts to catch up- everything came rushing back in sharp, unbearable detail.
The kiss.
The way his voice sounded when it broke around your name.
You pushed the memory down like gauze over a wound that wouldn’t close and focused on something you could control. Perfect lines pulled tight enough to hold, loose enough not to scar.

Alice’s clinic smelled the same as always.Herbs, antiseptic, faint smoke from something she definitely wasn’t supposed to be burning indoors.
Normally the familiarity soothed you. Lately it just meant there was nowhere left to hide.
“Sit,” Alice ordered from across the room without even looking up. “I am sitting.” Alice scoffed“You’re hovering. That’s different.”You glanced down.
You were, in fact, hovering over the patient like a particularly judgmental ghost.“…Technicality.” “Sit,” she repeated.You sat. For exactly three seconds. Then you stood again to adjust the bandage you’d already adjusted twice.
Alice’s eye twitched. “If you redo that wrap one more time, I’m charging you for supplies.”“It’s uneven.”“It’s fine.”“It’s three millimeters off.”“It is a bandage, not architectural planning!” You ignored her and fixed it anyway, fingers moving quick and precise, needle flashing silver in the light as you sealed the last edge with delicate, practiced control. Perfect. Only when it was perfect could you breathe. The patient flexed their arm cautiously. “…Feels better.” “Of course it does,” you said automatically.
Alice watched you instead of them.
Which was worse.“You slept?” she asked.“Yes.”A lie.Thin.Fragile.Obvious.“Mhm.”You didn’t look at her. If you did, you might crack.“Next patient,” you said too quickly.

Busy turned into constant.Constant turned into relentless. Morning blurred into afternoon, afternoon into night, night into the gray hour where the world felt unreal and your hands moved on memory alone.You stitched wounds until the thread blurred. Healed fractures until your own fingers trembled. Cleaned blood that wasn’t always someone else’s.Sometimes you forgot to eat.Sometimes you remembered and decided it was inefficient.Sleep became… optional.Because sleep meant dreams.And dreams meant him.

“You’re shaking.” “I’m steady.” “You’re shaking,” Alice repeated flatly.You tightened your grip on the needle until the tremor stopped out of sheer stubbornness, holding your jinki tighter.“See? Fine.” Alice crossed her arms. “You think if you keep saying that, it becomes true?”“Yes.”“…That is not how truth works.”

“I’m going on a supply run,” you announced. “You just got back from a mission.”“It’s efficient.”“It’s avoidance.”“It’s necessary.”“It’s reckless.”You grabbed your coat before she could keep going.
Because if she said the right thing in the right tone-you might actually answer.And that would ruin everything.

Working as a cleaner felt easier.Out there, pain had direction.Violence had purpose.You didn’t have to think—just react.You moved faster than usual. Took risks you normally calculated around.
Used your needle with sharp, ruthless precision that left enemies down before they realized you’d moved. It was efficient. It was effective.
It was… reckless.

You knew that, but this could not make you stop.Because the faster your heart pounded the louder the noise in your head became, the less room there was for softer thoughts.Like missing someone. Like wanting something you couldn’t survive losing.
You returned from one mission with blood down your sleeve and a split lip you hadn’t noticed forming. From another with bruises blooming dark across your ribs.From another with exhaustion so deep your vision tunneled at the edges.

Each time you told Alice it was nothing. Each time she looked less convinced. Another back and forth with her “Take. A. Break.” “No.” “That was not a suggestion.” “Then I decline your order.” “You cannot decline medical instruction!” “Watch me.” Alice pressed her fingers to her temples like she was holding her skull together manually.
“You are sleep-deprived, overworked, under-eating, and one bad hit away from collapsing in the middle of surgery.” “I won’t collapse.” “You are not invincible!” You met her glare with something quieter.
More dangerous.“I don’t need to be.”Silence dropped heavy between you.Because what you didn’t say, what she absolutely heard anyway- unspoken between you.

I just need to be useful.

Alice’s voice softened in a way that made your chest hurt.
“…You don’t have to earn staying alive.”You looked away first. You were aware of that. Yet your brain thought otherwise
Rumors spread about your work.Fast healing.Precise stitching. Impossible recovery times.Patients left praising you in hushed, grateful tones.“Best hands in the city.”“Didn’t even feel the needle.”“Back on my feet in a day.”Even the cleaners noticed.

Riyo caught you in the hallway once- when you came to get clothes, offering a small, careful smile. “I heard you treated three critical injuries in one night.”“Four,” you corrected automatically. Her brows lifted. “…That’s incredible.”“It’s efficient.”“It’s amazing,” she said gently. “You’re helping a lot of people.”Praise should’ve felt warm. Instead it settled heavy in your stomach like guilt.You swallowed hard. “…Just doing my job.”

Days blurred. Then weeks. You stopped keeping track.One night you pushed too far. You knew it the moment your vision flickered while threading a needle. The moment sound dulled at the edges. The moment your hands felt… slightly disconnected. You finished the stitch anyway.Only when the patient left did your knees threaten to give. You grabbed the table edge hard enough your knuckles blanched.

You were fine.You had to be fine.Because if you weren’t- everything you were holding together would unravel. Alice appeared beside you silently. Too silently. “…Upstairs,” she said. “No.” “That was not optional.” “I’m busy.” “You’re about to pass out in my clinic.” “I said I’m-” Your voice caught.Just for a second. Alice’s expression cracked with something like fear. And that scared you more than exhaustion ever could. Alice looked at you like she could see every fracture you were hiding beneath the surface.

“…You can’t keep doing this,” she whispered. You didn’t answer. You didn’t allow yourself to be anything except perfect. Because perfect things didn’t get abandoned.Perfect things didn’t cause tragedy.Perfect things didn’t break the people they loved.So you kept working.
Even as exhaustion hollowed you out from the inside.
Even as your heartbeat felt too loud in your ears.
Even as the world tilted slightly off balance.You kept moving.

Because stopping meant feeling.
And feeling meant him.

Chapter Text

The wind howled in your ears, debris flying in the air. What was supposed to be a short cut- was cut off by a hoard of trash beasts. You groaned,your day could not have been worse. No way would you willingly spend your day with Trash beasts when operating and treating patients with Alice was on the table, using your needles for something far more enjoyable. Heck even sewing something up with August would have been more fun than dealing with these things right now.

The Trash Beast stomped it’s feet making itself ready for yet another attack, but it did not get its chance. You pierced through it with your lance like needle hitting its core. “Hah! Serves you right-“
Clearly overestimating the hoard you went flying as you were hit by an attack.
Coughing up blood you laughed. “Fuck.” You overestimated how much you could handle in your state. Bloodied, Bruised, Wounded, Sleep deprived. Yeah you were fucked- but you couldn’t wait to make your way back.

Whatever recklessness was left in you- made you work your jinki to its full extend, crushing the beasts under a gigantic needle, ultimately defeating them. You dragged yourself back to the car. Blood staining the car seat.
Hissing as your own jinki came in contact with your skin, you healed yourself.
Only what was needed, hoping you could make it in time for Eishia to deal with the rest.

Alice decided for you to return to HQ, seeing that whatever she said did not get through your thick skull. And she refused to let yourself work to death at her own clinic. You knew she was right- she always was. But it took until your breaking point to see that.

You laughed. Defeated. Blood gushing out of your mouth. Droplets running down your chin. You revved up the car again, seeing the Cleaners Headquarters not far in the distance. Your foot pushing the petal into the ground, going faster than what was possibly good for you- made the car speed up, view and debris flying past the windows. Your stomach grumbled, getting sick. You had to push yourself. Needed to get close enough.

The doors opened with a loud clatter, Semiu looked up from her magazine. There you stood, looking like you fought death. “I’m back.”
Your hand brushed the blood out of your face, atleast what didn’t dry already.
“You look horrible!” Semiu voiced her concern. “I’m fine.” You brushed her off, a bit to quickly for the woman’s liking. “I’ll let the others know you’re back-“ “Please don’t tell Enjin about this.” You begged.

You did not want him to see you like this. Would he even care? Would he think less of you? The thought of that made you uncomfortable. Usually when you were wounded you never got to this point, and Enjin- or anyone for that matter never gave you the impression of not caring. But being gone so long.
Knowing you avoided him, them, your team. It made you scream internally.

Gris and Tomme walked to the entrance. Tomme shouted your name surprised, shocked by your state she hushed over. Gris following suit.
The two held you up supporting your frame. Semiu nodded at them.
“It would be kind if you guys bring her to the infirmary.” “No problem,” Gris said. “Let’s get you over there yeah?” You nodded, defeated. You weakly clicked on your collar, “Eishia I need you.” Your vision blurred “Fuck…”
“Hey is everything okay?!” Gris leaned over. “Me and Tomme are bringing your big sis to Medical alright?” “H-Huh? Alright!”

Entering the Medical Wing. Eishia gestured them to lay you down urgently, which made you groan. The two supporters left the room. “Ouch.” “You look horrible.” Eishia whispered. “Thank you.” you coughed. “I-I’m gonna treat you now okay?” You nodded gripping her hand. Eishia activated her jinki, electricity treating your wounds. You felt yourself passing out in exhaustion.

Your body felt like it belonged to someone else. Sound came first.Distant. Muffled. Electricity humming softly- Eishia’s jinki.
Fabric shifting.Breathing that wasn’t yours.Then pain.Not sharp.Not sudden.Just… everywhere. A deep, aching reminder that you were still here. You weren’t sure if that was comforting or disappointing.
Voices drifted in and out. Eishia whispering to someone. Footsteps.
The quiet clink of medical tools. You tried to open your eyes once.
The effort alone felt impossible. Darkness pulled you back under before you could fight it. Time stopped meaning anything.

Enjin heard from Gris.Not gently. Not carefully. Just a hand on his shoulder. “She’s back.” That was all it took.The world narrowed instantly.
Sound dropped out.Thought disappeared. “…What?” The word came out low. Dangerous.Gris didn’t dodge his stare this time. “In medical. Bad shape.” The chair behind Enjin scraped loudly when he stood. He didn’t remember deciding to move.His body was already halfway to the door.“She asked not to tell you,” Gris added quietly. That almost stopped him.Almost. “…Yeah,” Enjin muttered, jaw tight. “Too late.” And then he was gone.

The medical wing felt too bright. Every step down the hallway stretched longer than it should’ve. Like the building itself was trying to keep him away.He ignored the looks from others. Ignored the tension.
Ignored the way his pulse pounded louder with every door he passed until he saw you.
For a second, a terrifying, silent second- he thought he was too late.Then he saw your chest rise and fall, Breathing. Relief hit so hard it almost felt like pain. Eishia noticed him but didn’t speak. Just gave a small nod and slipped out quietly, closing the door behind her. Leaving the room silent.
Just you and him and everything unsaid sitting heavy in the air. He didn’t move closer at first. Couldn’t. Because seeing you like this. The blood loss, exhaustion, wounds you should’ve never taken alone-
His hands curled slowly into fists at his sides.“…Idiot,” he muttered, voice rough.It wasn’t clear if he meant you- or himself.

Time passed.Minutes. Maybe hours.He stayed anyway. Sat in the chair beside your bed like standing might make you disappear.Like looking away might undo the fragile proof that you were still breathing. Every so often his eyes traced the bandages. The bruising. The faint dried blood near your hairline someone hadn’t cleaned completely.

When you finally woke, it was quiet. No dramatic gasp. No sudden movement. Just a slow, fragile return to the surface.Your lashes fluttered.
Breathing shifted. Eyes opening halfway, unfocused and hazy.The ceiling blurred above you. “Eishia…?”Your voice was barely sound. The chair scraped softly. You turned your head. Everything inside you dropped.You weren’t ready. You weren’t strong enough for this yet.
“…Oh,” you whispered. Just that. Enjin’s expression changed instantly.
Something wounded flickering behind anger.“Yeah,” he said quietly.
“‘Oh.’”Silence spread, thick and suffocating. You pushed yourself up slightly, wincing. His hand moved on instinct- then stopped halfway, hovering in the air before dropping back to his side. The hesitation hurt more than the pain.

“You look like hell,” he said.Rough.Tight. Controlled in the way anger gets right before it breaks. You tried for something light.“…You should see the trashbeasts.” He didn’t smile. Didn’t even breathe differently. And suddenly the room felt very, very small. “What were you thinking?”Low. Quiet. Worse than yelling.“I handled it.” “You almost died.”“I didn’t.”“That’s not the point!”His voice cracked on the last word- sharp enough to slice the air open. Both of you froze. Because that wasn’t control anymore.
“It’s not that deep.”“Don’t.” Immediate. Harsh.
“Don’t pretend that’s all it was.”Your throat tightened.
“You don’t get to—” “I don’t get to what?!” He stood suddenly, chair legs screeching back. “Worry? Care? Be pissed that you keep throwing yourself into things like you’ve got nothing to lose?!” Each word hit harder than the last. Because part of you knew- he wasn’t wrong. “That’s not your decision to make,” you whispered. “Hypocrite.” You knew while you were gone that he was up to no good. Riyo told you.
“Like hell it isn’t!” Silence slammed down.Breathing.
Heartbeat.Too loud.Too close. “You disappeared,” he said, voice breaking quieter now. “You got hurt. You didn’t tell anyone. You didn’t tell me.”The last word came out softer. Almost fragile.And that- that hurt the most.
Your chest tightened painfully “I didn’t think you’d want to know.”The second the words left your mouth, you wished you could take them back. Because his expression- It shattered. “Yeah,” he said hoarsely.“That’s the problem.”One step closer. Slow. Careful. Like approaching something that might vanish. “You really think I wouldn’t care?”
You couldn’t answer.Because fear sat too heavy in your throat. Silence stretched. One breath away from breaking.
His hand lifted-hesitated, then gently touched your cheek, thumb brushing carefully around a fading bruise.Soft.Like you were something breakable. Your breath caught.Everything blurred together- pain, relief, exhaustion, him. All at once.

The distance closed without either of you deciding.One second breathing the same air, the next his lips were on yours.Not desperate like before.
Not messy. Months of fear and anger and wanting pressed into something wordless.You kissed him back before you could think.Because thinking meant stopping. And you didn’t want to stop.For one fragile moment- everything felt quiet.
.
You pulled back suddenly, breath shaking.“…We can’t.”Barely a whisper.
“It’s a mistake.” The words tasted like breaking glass. Enjin went completely still. No anger. No argument. Just still. Like something inside him shut off to survive the impact. ”Right,” he said quietly. So quiet it almost didn’t exist. He stepped back.Distance returning faster than you could stop it.
Your chest tightened painfully.“Enjin, I-” But he was already turning away.Because if he stayed, he might have said something he couldn’t take back. Or worse hear something that finished breaking him. The door opened.Closed. Silence flooded the room.
Your hands trembled in the empty space where he’d been. But you didn’t cry.You just laid back against the pillow and stared at the ceiling like if you stayed perfectly still nothing else would fall apart.

Chapter Text

Enjin decided, somewhere between one sleepless night and the next pointless mission briefing, that distance wasn’t working.

Avoiding you hadn’t fixed anything. It hadn’t made the tightness in his chest go away, hadn’t stopped his thoughts from circling back to the infirmary, to your voice, to the way your hands had trembled even as you pushed him away. Silence had only made everything louder.
So he changed tactics.
Not consciously, not in any way he would ever admit out loud, but the shift was there all the same. If distance hurt, then maybe pretending nothing was wrong would hurt less. Maybe if he acted normal long enough, the rest of him would follow. Maybe if he treated you the way he used to-before the kiss, before everything got tangled and fragile and impossible. Then whatever had broken between you might quietly stitch itself back together.
The first time he cracked a joke, it felt wrong in his mouth. Too light for the weight sitting under his ribs. You were in the infirmary, reorganising supplies with the same sharp, obsessive focus you’d been carrying for weeks. He leaned against the doorway like he used to, arms crossed, expression tilted into something that almost resembled a grin.
You didn’t look at him. Your hands kept moving, aligning tools that were already aligned, checking counts that had already been checked. The silence stretched just a fraction too long. Still nothing. Just the faint sound of metal touching metal, precise and controlled.
The smile stayed on his face, but it felt brittle. “Relax,” he added, lighter, teasing. “I’m not contagious.” That finally got a reaction. Not the one he wanted. Your shoulders tightened like the words had landed somewhere sore. You adjusted one last tool with unnecessary force, then moved past him without meeting his eyes. Close enough that he could feel the shift of air, the warmth of you for a split second that vanished just as quickly.“Good to know,” you said quietly.You walked away before he could answer.The hallway felt colder after you left.

He kept doing it.
Bad jokes tossed into briefings. Casual comments during missions. Standing a little too close when space was available, like proximity alone might rebuild something neither of you knew how to name anymore. To anyone watching from the outside, it almost looked normal. Familiar banter. Old rhythm. Nothing broken at all. Except it was forced. He could feel the strain in himself, the way the act sat wrong under his skin, but he didn’t know what else to do. Everyone else noticed.
They didn’t say it outright, not at first, but the looks were there. August’s raised brow lingering a second too long. Riyo’s quiet observation from across the room. Even Eishia’s careful glances between the two of you, worry she tried and failed to hide. The tension threaded through every shared space, subtle but constant, like static in the air before a storm.Enjin ignored all of it. Because acknowledging it would mean acknowledging why it existed. And he wasn’t ready for that.

You hated it. Not loudly. Not in any way you would ever admit. But the feeling lived under your skin, sharp and persistent. The joking felt like erasure. It would have been easier if he’d stayed distant. Easier if he’d been cold, or angry, or anything that matched the chaos still living inside your chest. Distance you could understand. Distance you could survive. But this- this imitation of normal felt cruel in a quieter, more unbearable way. Because part of you kept wanting to believe it was real. And another part knew it wasn’t.

You were already overwhelmed.
Sleep came in fragments too short to matter. Work filled every hour you could force it into, your hands moving faster than your thoughts, perfection the only thing keeping the cracks from showing. Missions blurred into treatment, treatment into more work, until exhaustion felt less like a problem and more like background noise. Holding yourself together took everything you had.
So when Enjin leaned too casually against your workspace, when he tossed another half-teasing comment into the fragile balance you were barely maintaining, it didn’t feel harmless. It felt like pressure on a fracture. Like someone tapping steadily at glass already spiderwebbed with cracks. You knew he didn’t mean it that way. That almost made it worse. Because if he were trying to hurt you, you could be angry. Anger was simple.But this was just him- frustrated, lost, pretending not to care because caring had cost him too much already.And knowing that didn’t stop it from hurting.

You felt stretched thin, pulled tighter and tighter around feelings you refused to name. Fear sat heavy in your stomach. Guilt pressed against your ribs. Still wanting him, even now- felt like the most dangerous thing of all. Because wanting meant hope. And hope, in your experience, always ended in loss.

By the time it finally snapped, it almost felt inevitable. The mission went wrong in the quietest way possible.No dramatic ambush.
No clever trap. Just exhaustion layered on top of bad timing, one mistake bleeding into the next until everything felt slow and sharp and inevitable.
You moved like your body was half a second behind your thoughts, needle striking where it needed to, healing where you could, ignoring the warning ache spreading through your limbs. Across the field, Enjin fought the same way he had for weeks now. Too hard, too fast, like he was trying to outrun something that lived under his skin. By the time it was over, the ground was quiet and your vision was swimming at the edges. Blood, some yours, some not- stuck to your sleeves. Your ribs screamed every time you breathed too deeply.You told yourself you’d felt worse. You told yourself a lot of things that stopped being true days ago. The ride back was silent. Like whatever words once lived between you had been carefully removed and nothing had grown back in their place.

Alice took one look at the two of you when the doors opened and didn’t even bother hiding her irritation.
“Oh good,” she said flatly, hands already on her hips. “My two favorite idiots decided to try dying on the same day. How efficient.” “I’m fine,” you and Enjin said at the exact same time. Her eye twitched. “Wonderful. Then you can both be fine in the same room while I make sure neither of you bleed on my floor.”
Before either of you could argue, she pointed down the hallway with the authority of someone who had long since stopped tolerating resistance.
“Recovery room. Both of you. Now. And don’t come out until you’ve either talked or passed out. I don’t care which.” “Alice-” you started. “Out,” she snapped.There was something in her voice that made arguing feel pointless. So you walked in, Enjin quietly following your steps.
And the door closed behind you with a soft click that sounded far louder than it should have.

“Sit,” you said quietly, voice automatic, clinical. Professional. He sat without arguing.Which somehow made it worse. You stepped closer, hands already moving, fingers steady in the way they always were when someone needed you. His sleeve was torn near the shoulder, blood dried dark against the fabric. You peeled it back carefully, trying not to notice the heat of his skin under your fingertips.Trying not to notice how close he was. Trying not to remember anything that didn’t belong in a medical room.Your hands didn’t shake.His breathing did.Just slightly uneven, like every inhale caught on something sharp inside his chest.
Silence stretched between you, thin and fragile as thread pulled too tight.
Every small sound felt magnified—the soft clink of metal, the quiet tear of gauze, the faint brush of fabric when either of you moved.

“I’m sorry.” The words slipped out before you could stop them. Your hands kept moving, tying a clean stitch like nothing had changed.
Like your heart hadn’t just stumbled over itself trying to say something it didn’t understand. “For… avoiding you,” you added, voice still low. “For making everything worse.” You kept your eyes on the bandage because looking up felt dangerous.
For a moment, he didn’t answer. And you wondered if maybe the words had come too late or didn’t mean anything at all.
“I’m sorry too.”Rougher than yours.Unsteady in a way you’d almost never heard from him. You stilled without meaning to, needle pausing mid-motion. “For being angry,” he said quietly. “For shutting down. Acting like this.” You forced your hands to keep working, finishing the last stitch with careful precision.
Neither of you said what it was. The fear sitting heavy in both your chests.You just… acknowledged the damage. Like touching a bruise to confirm it existed. The silence that followed felt different. You secured the bandage gently, smoothing the edge so it wouldn’t pull when he moved.
A small, unnecessary kindness, that meant more when it was him. “There,” you murmured. “Try not to tear it open again.”

A faint huff of breath,almost a laugh, almost not.“I’ll do my best.”Your hands lingered a second too long before pulling away. You stepped back, suddenly unsure what to do with the space between you.Because the wounds were treated.Excuses were gone. And there was nothing left to focus on except the quiet truth sitting in the room with you.
You didn’t know how to stand here without breaking it. “Are you… okay?” he asked.Simple question, for you however Impossible to answer. You nodded automatically. “Yeah.”He watched you like he could see straight through the lie, but he didn’t push. “Okay,” he said softly.

For the first time in weeks, the silence didn’t feel like punishment. It felt like comfort. “I thought you hated me,” you said suddenly, the confession slipping out before fear could stop it.His head lifted a fraction, surprise flickering across his face. “…What?” “After everything,” you whispered. “I thought you were angry enough to just… stop caring.” He stared at you for a long moment, something unreadable moving behind his eyes.“I never stopped caring,” he said quietly.“Not even close.” You looked down at your hands, suddenly unsure where to put them.
What to do with the way your chest felt too tight and too light at the same time. “…Okay,” you whispered.

Maybe things between you weren’t so bad after all.

Chapter Text

When Alice cleared both of you. You and Enjin made out that he would pick you up in a few days with the rest of your Team- as you didn’t waste the opportunity to help out Alice. She however made you promise up and down that you would not over do it. Promising he would not be gone long, Enjin went on his way.

What turned out to be a lie, days turned into a week- the night sky glimmering in the distance. You would describe yourself as quite patient.
Now however, your foot tapping the floor in dissatisfaction almost resembled Dear Santa. Another half hour passed. The clinic grew quieter as evening settled in. The usual noise of patients faded to distant murmurs, then to nothing. Shadows stretched long across the floor. The clock on the wall ticked louder than it had any right to. Still no Enjin.

Irritation crept in first. “Unbelievable,” you muttered. “He says he won’t be late and then-” “-and then he’s late,” Alice finished calmly. “Tragic. Shocking. Completely unprecedented.” You glared at her. She didn’t even pretend to care, cleaning up her work space.
You groaned, scrubbing a hand down your face. The movement tugged at your bandages. Pain flared. You ignored it.Another minute passed.

The front door slammed open hard enough to rattle the hanging bell into a frantic, broken chime. Both you and Alice looked up at the same time. Enjin stood in the doorway, breathing hard like he’d run the entire way. And in his arms- someone else.

For one second your brain suspended to process what you were seeing. Your breath hitched. Pulse raising. Panic settled in.
What was Enjin doing with a spherite corpse?
Alice pushed you behind her, knowing how sensitive the scene unfolding in front of you was. „ He is alive. Barely.“ Enjin explained. Alice took over, ushering you both out of the room.

„Enjin what the fuck…?“ you muttered, clearly distraught. Enjin explained. How he found the kid. In No Mans Land- not delving into why he was there in the first place. How the Kid seemed to be a Giver, like them. Reassured you he was alive. While he didn’t know the Details, he knew spherites made you uncomfortable. It wasn’t uncommon that people on the ground despised them, hence why he didn’t push further.

When the immediate danger passed and Alice finally allowed herself to step back, the clinic settled into softer silence again. The boy- Rudo, Enjin had said at some point, slept under careful monitoring. You wiped your hands slowly, exhaustion creeping back now that adrenaline was fading.Enjin lingered near the doorway, like he wasn’t sure if he should stay or go.

You spoke first. “…I’m sorry,” you said quietly. “For panicking.”“You don’t have to apologize for that.” “I know. I just-” You exhaled shakily. “He reminded me of… something from when-.” Enjin nodded once more. No judgment. Just understanding.Silence stretched, gentler this time. “Thanks for explaining,” you added. “Yeah.” He rubbed the back of his neck, suddenly awkward. “Didn’t mean to scare you.” “You didn’t know.”“Still.” He replied.

“Why don’t you go meet Riyo and I’ll deal with this stray huh?” Enjin suggested. You shrugged. Sure. After all Enjin was responsible for this whole mess. You did not want to be included more than necessary. “Sure”
Riyo was waiting outside in the car when you finally left the clinic, engine humming softly in the dark.You barely remembered getting in.The seat was warm.The motion gentle. Voices low and distant in the front.

Exhaustion crashed over you all at once, thick and unavoidable. Your eyes closed before you meant them to. Sleep took you instantly.Deep. Heavy. Dreamless.You missed the entire drive back to headquarters-the banter between your team and Rudo, how he and Zanka got of the wrong foot. By the time the car door opened again, you didn’t stir.

Enjin looked at you for a long moment.Head tilted against the window.
Breathing slow. Finally peaceful in a way he hadn’t seen in weeks.Something in his chest tightened softly. “…I’ve got her,” he murmured. Carefully Enjin lifted you from the seat. You didn’t wake.
Your weight settled naturally against him, familiar in a way that felt dangerous to think about. One of your hands curled faintly into his shirt like instinct, like memory.

His stepped through the quiet halls were slow, measured, protective.Your room door opened with a soft click.He carried you inside, the space dim and still, untouched since morning. He gently put you down on your bed. When you body left his warm comforting space, you stirred. Holding onto his wrist, you murmured “Please…” “Huh?” Enjin looked at you quiet dumbfounded. “Stay.” He didn’t need to be told twice. After all this time, he would not fumble the opportunity to be with you- atleast until you decided otherwise.

He was honestly confused by you behaviour, irritated even. But if it meant you didn’t give up on him he was fine with it. He chuckled as he, laid down beside you. You could walk him like a dog and he would bark at every command. It was crazy how much you impacted him, how much he cared about you. Enjin brushed your hair out of your face. You only nuzzled closer to him. He pulled you closer, slowly drifting to sleep himself.

Sleeping in until the middle of the day, you didn’t notice Enjin leave in the early morning, nor did you take part in assisting Riyo showing the newbie the ropes. Only when you heard a knock on your door, you finally got out of bed. Riyo entered your room, stretching. “Man you are out of it sleeping all day.” She giggled. “You’re coming to celebrate though right?” You eyed her questioning. Almost like question marks were visible above your head, the girl laughed. “We’re throwing a party for Rudo. Man and here I thought Enjin let you know since you’re talking again.” She sighed.
“He is so stupid- don’t tell him that though!” You rambled, “I think he left early in the morning, I don’t know tho.” You definitely knew he stayed the night.

“So celebrating the kid you said? Sure.”
Riyo sat down behind you grabbing your hair brush. It was a silent routine between the two of you. Ever since Enjin returned with the red head one day, Riyo would barge into your room, start talking about things you missed, and did your hair for you. You appreciated it alot- knowing it gave the girl comfort as well.

Celebrating the Spherite Boy joining the cleaners, all gathered together.
He however was sulking in a corner. You elbowed Riyo, raising your eyebrow.
She only shrugged in return. You made your way over. Joining Gris on the bench. “Everything alright?” “Oh haven’t seen you in a while since- oh well how has it been at Alice’s” Gris asked. “You know. The usual.” She shrugged. “So you must be Rudo?” she turned to the teenager who reminded her strangely enough of a ruffled up feral kitten- now that he was somewhat presentable. “The Name’s (Y/N), remember it as a fellow member of Team Akuta alright?” She grinned.

The boy was nothing like she imagined- if anything he fit right into the bunch of you. Especially without his spherite clothes, he seemed just like you, from the ground, which eased you up.

“So you were the one they talked about sleeping on the drive here?” He murmured. She shrugged
“Yeah happens. The woman that fixed you right up- Alice. Help her sometimes. Owe it to her for taking me in you see?”
Gris turned to Rudo “Might as well be a Stilza at this point this one.”
Pointing with his thumb to her. She laughed. “You’re definitely in best hands when it comes to getting fixed up with us.”

Booze was her weak point, and so was Enjin. A few glasses of liquor in and she was cozied up hiding in Augusts workshop who had to endure her mood.
“You know I love you Stitches, but you can’t keep running away you know that right- also you might as well help me i don’t care that you are buzzed- look what do you think of this pattern?” August said barely looking at her. “I knooow but as long as my lovely favorite time of the year lets me in i will stay hereee,” she said leaning behind him resting her head on his.”besides that pattern is crazy i love the design!” August cackled “You are crazy pffft! Favorite time of the Year.” “It is though… its when i got taken in by your grandma.” (Y/N) mumbled.

Growing up with the Stilzas was hectic, but also super fun. Being older than the two, you being thirteen, August ten and Eishia barely seven when you first arrived- you often ended up babysitting the pair. This totally didn’t stop you from bickering with them like a little kid.

While you found Eishia adorable, you- in fashion of a thirteen year old- hated how much of a whiny kid she was. When you and August played to hard and it ended in her tears, the two of you would beg her to stop, sparing you from Alice’s lectures.

Most of the time it ended up with you sandwiched in between the siblings shenanigans. To this day whatever they were up to you were right in the middle of it. If it was advice or simply an ear to listen to you were there. In return, you could always come back to two people you deeply cared for, so it was alright.

Talking about caring, Enjin only sighed as he watched you leave inebriated with August in tow before the two of you could speak. Was it the alcohol? Was it him? He didn’t know but the feeling in his chest annoyed him. He was too drunk himself to care though. Team Akuta was sick of pretending they didn’t notice the glances the eldest of them threw each other when they weren’t looking. The caressing touches, the smiles.

Riyo bored out of her Mind one time played Bingo with Tomme,
It didn’t take long to fill up the sheet. Unbeknownst to both, the kids of the team started betting on them. Rudo was new, but quickly indulged as well once Zanka and Riyo introduced him to the pain that was your Situation. Flustered that they’d do this so openly behind your backs, he was hesitant, yet once he noticed what the two meant he was quickly on board.
He noticed Enjins grumbling or how he seemed lost in thought when your name came up. Meeting you, he noticed you were just as down bad as the tattoed cleaner.

Calling it quits, Enjin bid everyone goodbye. Walking down the hallway, he made his way to pick you up. Knowing you were probably far from your room- a habit that you never seemed to fix. Clicking his collar, he asked August if they were at his Workshop, which he confirmed with you yelping in the background. When he opened the door, he found you sprawled on the floor, humming to a tune and August sitting next to you, sewing god knows what again. “Stitches your Taxi is here!” August said as he ellbowed you.

You groaned giving August a stern look. Enjin just quietly threw you over his shoulder, making the longhaired blonde burst out in laughter. “Taxi’s ready to drive off,” he whispered you name, “ say bye-bye to your little baby brother.” He mocked August with a grin. Giggling, you waved. “Bye Byeee!”

“How did you know I was here?” You asked Enjin as he made his way to your room. “Not the first time you hide now is it.” He huffed. “I- Hey I wasn’t hiding!” You retorted. “Sure.” “Really! And Enjin?” “Hm?” “Why did you leave me?” He slowed his pace, a bit bewildered. “When?” “This Morning!” You whined. “Oh i didn’t want to feel uncomfortable or anything girl.” He laughed. “I can stay now if you want?” He asked.

He hoped you would say yes, showing that you did want him, that you liked him. He would never acknowledge how he missed laying down with you, your warmth, your closeness. So when you hummed in agreement, Enjin only grinned happy to himself, as you two entered your room

Before hopping into bed, you tapped his shoulder. “Can we sleep in?”
He chuckled. “Anything you want alright?” Your breath hitched, enough for Enjin to notice. You blushed and quickly went to bed.
And how he would do anything for you, worship you- all you had to do was tell him to.

Oh how he wished you would.

Chapter Text

Sleeping in with Enjin was a godsend. The tall man had you lean fully into his grasp- you somehow half laying on top of him. You didn’t know how you ended up like this but being with Enthis came natural .
Sitting up on him, you leaned over his face. “Wake up man.” Enjin who held you by the waist only grumbled. “No let’s lay down longer…” he said, tugging you. You steadied yourself with both hands, each rested on the pillow beside his head.
Feeling the change of weight, he slowly opened one eye. Sleep still in his eye, he mumbled. “If you want me just say so girl.” “I-“ He lazily brushing the hair fanning over the both of you behind your ear, pulling you closer.

Enjin made you crazy, his sweet nothings- the tempting words of his. He eyed you curiously, moving from keeping eye contact to staring at your lips.
Oh how you wanted to kiss him again. As if he heard your plea- he closed the distance.You hesitantly kissed back.
Kissing eachother, you tugged at Enjins Hair, as he reached under your shirt.Your tongues intertwined- A trail of saliva connected you as you both gasped for air. Enjin took his shirt off, revealing his chiselled body and his intricate tattoos.

The View was nothing new to you having treated him several times, but seeing him like this- so vulnerable beneath you made you shiver.
You quietly traced the tattoos around his collarbone, admiring the work.
Raising back up Enjin, tugged at the hem of your shirt, recieving nothing but a nod- he took it of in a praticed swiftness. Pressing your body close to him he began kissing soft trails down your neck, biting down. One hand pressing the small of your back the other softly caressing your Chest.You moaned. You grinded into his body, gripping onto his back with your nails. Fuck you needed him so bad. Matching your pace,you fell into a steady rhythm.

Feeling like this, desired- made your stomach churn.

His one hand finding your Chest while the other caressed your upper thigh up and down, playfully reaching the hem of your bottoms- like asking for permission. You smiled, endulging into his touch peppering his neck with kisses. Reaching into your shorts, the cups of his fingers lightly brushed against your heat. Another Moan left your mouth. Unclasping the button of your Shorts, he took them off.“So eager are we?” He teased you “Please Enjin I need you.” You grumbled hiding in his shoulder at the slight embarrassment.

He chuckled. Brushing aside your underwear. “Fuck you are so perfect.” His fingers dipped inside you. “So wet for me.” He whispered into your ear. The woman hid her face in his neck, biting down from pure bliss. Drawing lazy circles with his Thumb on your Clit, you gasped for air digging your nails onto his shoulder. “You like that?” He asked, attentive of every sound and reaction you gave him. You only nodded, leaving a mark on his neck. „So good for me.”You whined.

You never expected Enjin to be such a sweet talker, being attentive and talking you through- but it was hot.

Enjin spat onto his fingers, entering another finger. „Wanna see how good you look for me?“ He said, moving your head up. Seeing him pleasure you made you ache around his fingers. „Please“ you whimpered. „I’m so close.“

Going between your legs he kissed you. “Everything you want you deserve it.” Trailing kisses and playful bites down to your chest.
His free hand fondling your breast, while he gently sucked on the other, making you whine. Enjin was in pure bliss over the effect he had on you. Lowering his head he bit the inner part of your thigh. One hand holding you leg in place, the other rested on your stomach middle finger playing with your clit.

You threw your head into the pillows as you felt his tongue enter.
Enjin devoured you like his last supper worshipping every crevice, moaning. Trembling, you dug your hands into his hair. “Fuck,Enjin!”
His grip tightened on both of your legs throwing them over his broad shoulders. Seeking your sweet release you grinded against his face, making the man quicken his pace. Enjin giving you head was something you did not expect but welcomed regardless.

Legs shaking you came undone while Enjin groaned leaping up your juices.
Shivering you looked at an euphoric Enjin licking his Lips. It was unfair how hot he looked kneeling in front of you. Tugging at his trousers you unbuttoned them, pulling them down his slender waist. “You sure?”You nodded. “Fuck.”
Taking of his last remaining clothing, you stared.

Quickly grabbing a Condom from the drawer of your nightstand you gave it to him and he put it on without question, aligning himself with your entrance. Hey eyed you a bit curiously and you shrugged. The thought of you fucking another guy left a bitter taste on his mouth- not like he could talk, but it agitated him. He was sure after this you wouldn’t think of being with anyone else but him- at least its what he hoped.

He was so perfect- but it also made sense why he took such care of you before, you knew Enjin was huge but damn. “That’s not gonna fit.“ He chuckled, caressing your face. „I’ll be gentle. We’ll make it fit.“ Enjin replied, chuckling at your bewildered reaction. You hummed in agreement, a bit embarrassed. „What was that?“ He asked playfully. You whined as you felt his tip brush you. „Yes Enjin,please put it in.”His teasing unexpectedly really did something to your senses- driving you insane, begging for him.

Slowly dipping his hips, you both moaned in unison. The way his cock filled you up was nothing comparable to his fingers. Digging his hands in to your hips he bottomed out with a groan “Fuuuck you feel so good.” Your legs clenched around his muscular torso. He slowly bucked his hips into a slow pace, drawing moans out of both of you.

Enjin could not believe you were letting him fuck you. You felt more devine like he imagined, when he was in bed taking care of himself imagining what it would be like if it was you, even with other woman, who begged for him- all that lingered in the back of his mind was you.

Kissing him, you scratched his back biting down on his lip. “Please, faster.” You whined. The glint in Enjins eyes could only be described akin to something animalistic. Pinning your hands above your head, he rammed into you, balls slapping against you. The bed started creaking with the frantic movement.

“You look so good for me,” Enjin praised.“taking me so well.” You only moaned in response, walls tightening around him. “Fuck baby so good.” He was melting your senses with his words, the pleasure only growing.

You could feel yourself getting close again. Noticing you grow whinier, Enjin pushed you deeper into the mattress, your legs over his shoulders, hitting deeper. Moaning, Enjins rhythm grew messier and more frantic. Using your legs to pull him closer you came on his dick clenching around him as you moaned loudly. Riding out your orgasm he pressed himself against your body, coming undone.

Resting against Enjin, you groaned as he pulled out of you, taking the condom off and standing up to get rid of it. Returning with a wet towel and a glass of water, he carefully wiped you down, while you gulped the glass down. You set the glass down on the nightstand shaking, drawing a light laugh from the blonde. Laying down beside you again, he gestured you to lay on his Chest.

“Now that wasn’t so bad was it.” Enjin yawned. You jokingly hit his chest.
“You’re unbelievable.“ „Just kidding but- ah nah!“ You frowned. „What is it?“
„Did you think this was wrong too?“ he said, his voice peaking with curiousness. You stared at him. „… No.“ Sensing you beginning to overthink, he, kissed your forehead. „I don’t know what goes on in that sexy brain of yours but don’t dwell too much on it aight?“ You huffed. „But-“ Enjin laughed.
„Ah ah ahh No But’s Okay? How about we just see where this goes. No hard feelings?“

If you agreed would you come to regret it? You not only kissed him- you had sex with him. And you liked it. Alot. Ever since the infirmary you didn’t acknowledge any feelings in the room, but your actions did. Were you okay with that? Okay with hiding how you truly felt? What you feared?
Enjin on the other hand did not want to startle you, with his feelings- or whatever it was that bothered him, and no less any commitment if he wasn’t sure if that’s what you wanted- even if it killed him slowly.

“Sure.” You yawned. That was definitely a problem for the future you.
Right now- this felt okay- atleast you thought so. You long overstepped the boundaries of just being friends, you knew that, but having this with Enjin of all people, really frustrated you. With others you had no problem telling whats right from wrong, but with him all your morals went out of the window.

Good that you still had the day ahead of you to worry about it later.

Chapter Text

Eishia and you were on standby in the Infirmary in case anyone needed treatment. Afte Enjin left he took the rest of your team to a mission.
From sourcers unknown to you they found about another spherite, which maybe could help Rudo come closer to his goal. You warmed up to Rudo alright- but it was a bit to much for you just yet having more encounters with people you usually found dead. Its not like you hated them, but visualising corpses before your eyes, the blood on your hands whenever you saw their clothes, simply wasn’t for you. And Enjin knew that.

Eishia and you played cards- definitely more fun than playing with Enjin or Riyo . Maybe also because you favoured your little baby sister when it came to entertaining someone. “Sooo… are you and Enjin better?” Eishia asked quietly while she layed down a card. You eyed her. She gave you a flustered grin. “August said you both looked happier- and that he heard you this morning.” What a snitch. You blushed profusely. How embarrassing.

“Please tell me no one else knows oh my god.” You ended your turn.
“No only him- and me… i think!” Eishia responded. “A-are you guys together now?” “What? No!” You shrieked. Eishia stuttered surprised. “Ehhhhh B-But don’t you guys like eachother?!” You did, of course you did. Atleast you knew for sure about yourself. “It’s complicated.”

Eishias chocker turned on. It was Semiu. “Akuta needs urgent back up and treatment. It was a Trap by the Raiders.Team Eager will follow you as well.” “Oh fuck really?” You gasped. “Yep so best head there as soon as possible.” Semiu responded “Understood.” You both replied.

Arriving at the site Riyo, greeted you two . “Gris has had it the worst you should look after him.” Activating your Jinki, eyes glowing you said
“Lets get to work Eishia.” Seeing the state he was in you quickly made up a treatment plan. “I’ll sew up any wounds from causing further issues like bleeding, but seems like you need to do most of the work little one.” “Leave it to me.” Eishia said nervously.

While your jinki could not heal to the extend Eishia was able to, you were able to sew up surface wounds like they never existed making it very useful for quick treatment on field. Thanks to Alice’s knowledge you perfected your medical treatment of others- hence why you helped at her clinic ever so often- although the last times were rough to say the least. Finishing your last stiches, Eishia and you bandaged the sutures and kept them airtight. You made your way over to Zanka fixing up his wounds leaving the rest to Eishia.

The others all gathered around them while Rudo walked up.
“Gris.. GRIS!!” he spoke. “I’m sorry about your Amulet… I broke it.” Kneeling down beside him. “It was something important to me.” Gris smiled weakly.
“I’m really glad that it helped you.” He added “Well done.” Rudo looked at him shocked. You did not know what happend, but you were touched by how much Rudo cared.

Heading Back to Headquarters, Eishia and (Y/N) prepared everything for healing a badly wounded Gris. Stepping back with a clipboard in your arms, you watched Eishia plug in her cord and activate her Jinki. Only paying attention to his vitals you stayed put, not wanting to accidentally disturb the girl. After all you didn’t want Gris end up burnt to a crisp by electrocution.

When Gris was finally out of Danger and coming to his senses again you and Eishia let out a sigh of Relief.
From the window you could make out a worried Rudo sitting outside on a bench- and Enjin talking to him. You could only hope he could talk some sense into the teen. That he was not at fault and that Gris would be ok.
When they entered the room however you could only deadpan.
Tomme and Enjin took it upon themselves to pity the poor little guy and pat him on his back ushering him in.

“Congratulations on awaking your Power Rudo!” Gris grinned at him giving him a thumbs up. Rudo was dumbfounded. “You’re… alive?”
Enjin and Tomme teased him. “I see, I see… you thought Gris was dead, I see, I see…” Enjin was absolutely annoying. “I didn’t know you were so depressed about that… I see.” Rudo who clearly had enough just shouted
“THEY TOLD ME YOU WERE DEEPLY WOUNDED, SO I THOUGHT YOU WERE DEAD!” pointing his finger accusingly at the man. You side eyed Enjin, who only raised his hands in defence, grinning. Gris however explained that it was all up to you and most importantly Eishia who he introduced to the boy.

While they talked you kind of zoned out, until your boss entered the room.
“And there is some new Info” Enjin stated which Corvu’s added. “The Border mentioned by the Raiders…seems to indicate that they’re investigating something about the heavens as well.” “Who…?” Rudo started. “Ah. Boss.” Enjin and you nodded. “Nice to meet you Rudo. Sorry i wasn’t there on your first day. I am Corvus. Arhka Corvus. In case you are wondering I’m the Head of the Cleaners.” He introduced himself asking Rudo to follow him.

Enjin didn’t hesitate a second pulling you with him out of the infirmary.
Dragging you down the hallways, he whistled a tune. “Enjin?” “Hm?”
“You could have told Rudo that Gris is fine… you’re horrible.”You blurted out.
Enjin had a terrible habit of leaving out crucial parts of information and in situations like these you despised him a little bit for it.

“Won’t happen again Ma’am.” He saluted, turning his head to you. You huffed, crossing your arms. “Awh c’mon don’t tell me you’re actually mad.”
You walked past him. His hand grasped hour shoulder.

“Hey.” You shrugged him off.
“Hey.” He tried again.
“Hey.” Again.

Grabbing your wrist making you stop he whispered in your ear. “ Is there any way I can make it up?” Enjin didn’t like having to put in the work to be forgiven. Normally his character worked like a charm on others brushing his wrong doings of easily. Egging you on to get a reaction, anything worth mentioning however- excited him. Of course he would prefer if you just went with his antics. Which you did. You turned to him, eyebrow raised“Anything?” Enjin grinned. “Yes anything Girl.” You chuckled. You had the perfect idea.

Entering the common area, Enjin looked at you in disbelief. “You want to me to do what?” “You heard me.” “Oh hell no.” You laughed. “Well then I wont forgive you for being a piece of Shit” Guita ran up to you hugging you from the side. “Huuuh what did Enjin dooo?” You ruffled the girls hair. “Well you know Enjin is a big meanie.” “Ohhhh I see!” Enjin gasped. “Hey!”
He turned to you. “You can’t make me quit smoking for a week c’mon.”
Bro Santa laughed. “I’d like to see you try a day!”

“Scared you can’t do it?” You teased Enjin. “Maybe you won’t stink bad!” Guita exclaimed. Bro Santa scolded her “Guita! Don’t be rude!” Which made you laugh. Enjin threw his cigarette box in your direction. You catched it.
“Fine. Are we good tho?” He asked you. “Don’t remember that we weren’t.”
You grinned. Enjin returned your smile.

He was so fucked though.