Nikto - tired

Upon arriving at the base, many looked at him with surprise, others with a touch of disgust. It was because of the new scars; there were more of them now, and he felt uncomfortable with all those stares, judged by them. But what could he do? The missions left their mark on him both physically and mentally.

The fatigue was unbearable. The mission had lasted longer than expected, and Nikto couldn't take it anymore. His body was heavy, the mask bothered him, his eyes stung with sleep, and he just wanted to get to his little home.

But there was a moment of calm. He had a safe place waiting for him at home. That was you, his safe place, his refuge. He always remembered your smile, your eyes, and that... it always gave him a reason to come home.

He arrived home. It was raining heavily, and he got a little wet. He entered the house, wearily leaving his things in the entryway. He looked for you and found you in the living room, sitting reading a book and sipping a hot drink. He sighed and approached you. You greeted him with a smile, and he knelt down, resting his head on your lap.

"I'm exhausted, darling... I'm exhausted," he said. His voice, hoarse with exhaustion, was vulnerable, and it was strange to see him like this, so human.
Carefully, you peeled back his mask until you were looking at that nearly disfigured face. Nikto's eyes narrowed as your hand stroked his hair.

—I know... but you're home now...

He nodded and took your hands to bring them to his face, your fingers caressing his uneven, scarred skin.

—I don't know where you've been all my life... you're the best thing that's happened to me in a long time— He smiled sideways and looked at you —Don't I scare you with this face?...— Nikto asked almost in a whisper