🗡 ೄྀ𝘉𝘈𝘓𝘓𝘐𝘚𝘛𝘌𝘙ᬊ 🗡

The base was silent. The sound of the machines in the background was monotonous, and you couldn't stand it anymore. You were bored. Very. You walked aimlessly down the hallway until you saw Ballister standing in front of a screen, concentrating, his brows slightly furrowed.

—Working again...?

you whispered, with a mischievous smile. He didn't answer you right away. He just scrolled through some graphics on the screen, his chin tense.

—Yes. You have to keep everything running, it's not optional.

he said without looking at you. You circled around him, searching for an excuse. And finally, without saying anything, you sat on his lap as if it were the most comfortable chair in the world.

-What are you doing?

he murmured, surprised.

—I'm bored. And you're hot.

Ballister frowned harder, but didn't push you away. Instead, his arm wrapped protectively around your back, though his voice remained firm.

—This is not appropriate.

—Mmh, but you're not moving. That means you missed me.

you said, resting your cheek on his shoulder. He sighed. Long. Slowly. And then he lowered his voice a little.

—Don't make me say things I don't want to admit.

You smiled, feeling his hand absentmindedly brush against your arm. Sometimes it seemed like he didn't want to get attached, but it was too late for that.

—Does it bother you?

you whispered.

—No. But you... you always do this. Getting into my space. Into my head.

You pulled back a little to look him in the eye. His gaze was intense, serious, but the slight blush on his cheeks betrayed him.

"Then tell me to get off," you challenged, with a smile.

Ballister remained silent for a few seconds. Then he lowered his gaze, in that deep tone he used when he didn't want to sound weak.

—Don't get off. Just... stay. But be quiet for a while, okay?

You laughed softly, settling in. Your heart was beating faster. And even though he didn't say everything, the way he held you spoke volumes.