#Tech Fluff

[court-jesterr]

Uncommon Reaction

Pairing: Tech x Fem!Reader (our lovely medic line) Warnings: female insults, gross man being a jerk to reader, violence, cursing, Mando'a cursing, fluff, not proof read I just needed to get it out as my mourning, nothing else I don't think Word Count: 4.5k Summary: Needing something from town, you're stuck with going with Tech, as everyone else is busy. You're not used to his response when a man decides to be rude to you.

Requests are open if you have anything you'd like to send in!

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"Echo," your mirthful voice reverberated around the walls of the Maruader as you laughed, "please?"

Laughing at your shameful display as you childishly hung off of the man's shoulder, playfully pouting at him with eyes as wide as a loth kitten. He chided you with an amusingly stern use of your name, dragging you alongside him as he walked down the gangplank, "I've already told you that I can't go with you into town. I'd love to but I have to help Hunter gather the rations and make sure we have enough for the next trip."

Whining dramatically, you pull at his hand, "I can wait! Really! I'll even help count so it'll go quicker!" Though you tried your most convincing grin, hoping your innocent tone would win him over as it had multiple times before, the Arc trooper shook his head.

"Sorry, sarad, no can do." His simple decline made you groan in frustration and drop his hand indignantly but he continued, "It's already getting late, anyway, the sun'll be gone before we even finish counting. Why don't you see if Tech will go with you?"

At the mention of the clever clone, your cheeks immediately warmed and you pulled away from Echo a bit in fear he might catch your sudden change. "I-I'm sure he's busy...he's always busy with some kinda tinkering." Your mumbled response was met with a raised brow from the cybernetic clone before you, his trained eye-catching the evergrowing red color staining your cheeks. Though the planet had a warmer temperature than some others the Batch had stopped on recently, Echo knew this couldn't have affected you so suddenly. You noticed his scrutinizing squint and quickly tried to move the subject elsewhere, "Maybe Wrecker or Cross could go with-"

With another shake of his head, a knowing grin starting to grow over his pale lips, arms crossing over his armored chest, Echo interrupted you, "Busy with rearranging the cargo hold so Tech doesn't get rid of their explosives again." Then he smirked at your obvious dilemma, "Besides, I'm sure that if you ask him, Tech'll set whatever he's doing aside. He seems to like you more than any of the rest of us."

Stammering at Echo's teasing, you fumbled with a response. He couldn't be serious, right? Tech was nice, of course, he was just as nice as any of the others- just in his own way.

The way that sent butterflies screaming into your stomach...

The way that made your hands tremble sometimes when he forgot about the social decency of personal space...

Tech was nice in the way that you adored and couldn't get enough of even when you'd been around him for hours upon hours, even when his brothers wanted to strangle him.

"Uh, w-well, I don't-" You started as Echo tapped his chin with his scomp-link, in thought when footsteps from the gangplank sounded.

Walking down a step at a time, Tech emerged, face ever plastered to his datapad. A miniscule glance was sent from Echo to you then back to the device in his hands. "I heard whining from the pilot's seat," he began, his precise tone sounding uninvested as it typically did when he was observing a situation unbiasedly.

Echo grinned over at Tech, "Just the clone we were looking for," he praised with a welcoming wave of his scomp. "Our dear medic here is in dire need of heading into town and no one has any time to go with her."

As soon as Echo mentioned you needing to go into town, Tech put away his datapad, eyes meeting yours. "It would seem I am currently unimpeded by any projects that require my immediate attention, for the time being, that is." He stepped further down the gangplank, standing in the unoccupied space before you and Echo. "An appropriate solution would be that I accompany you into the nearby town."

Echo slowly turned his head to meet your red face, smirking proudly at you, "It would be, wouldn't it?" He chuckled at your incredulous expression, then looked back at the taller clone. "Then make it quick the two of you, it's going to be getting dark soon and I'm sure the town isn't the best place to be, even for us." He rested his hand on Tech's shoulder, walking back up the gangplank to head inside the ship, momentarily turning around to salute you with a wink.

You stood there for a second in disbelief, trying to understand how the situation left you with just Tech....alone.

"I cannot believe him." You muttered to yourself under your breath, shaking your head.

"He is correct, actually" Tech interjected into your thoughts, causing you to start a bit, forgetting his proximity. Looking up to see him fixing his goggles on his face more comfortably, you noticed the way his brown eyes caught the sun, as light snuck behind the frames to speckle the golden hues decorating them. "The town we are heading to is known for its rather," he searched around the area for the appropriate word, "sordid, is perhaps the best term I can use for it. We would be safer grabbing what it is you need quickly, then returning at a proper pace." His explanation continued but you began to get lost in your own thoughts, admiring the man before you. It seemed to happen, sometimes, that you would find yourself marveling at how someone who was supposed to be a clone- "defective" or otherwise- was so uniquely designed. However, no matter how smart Tech was, he was so clueless of his beauty (unlike Hunter who was exhaustively aware of his looks). The way his freckles brushed over the thin bridge of his nose to paint his tanned cheeks. The way his honeyed eyes were just a few shades brighter than his brothers, the way the light lingered in them even after all was dark. He was oblivious to how handsome he looked when he raised that one eyebrow in challenge, or when one of his brothers said something entirely incorrect. He was just as strong, just as well adept in battle, as any of his brothers (other than Wrecker), but he had the added allure of his intelligence that made you fall that much quicker. Tech's straightforward behavior, the endearing seriousness, his misconception of certain social cues, and the way his heart was still as open as any of the others- more so, you could argue- just made cherishing him so much easier.

A gentle call of your name caught you off-guard and you shook your head to refocus. "Hmm? Yes?"

Tech's face had grown adorably perplexed as he searched yours inquisitively. "I had asked if you were ready to leave, though I was met with only your vacant expression. Are you alright?"

A burning crept up your neck as you blinked dumbly at the clone trooper, "Y-yep! I'm perfectly fine!" You winced at the crack in your voice, hoping that if he asked any further questions you could blame some of it on the slightly elevated temperature of the planet.

Tech seemed gracious, or oblivious, enough to move on from the situation and nodded at your reply. "Then I suppose we should leave," he gestured for you to go ahead of him, "after you, mesh'la."

-

Once in town, you had noticed quickly what Tech had meant about the town being a little less desirable. The people seemed to even shy away from one another from time to time, going about their own business and then skittering away.

Tech kept a close pace behind you, placing himself directly behind your shoulder, his impressive height becoming even more pronounced. People seemed content to avoid the two of you and you hadn't noticed any issues with the trip so far until you felt Tech press himself further into your back, the smooth front of his chest piece cramming into your shoulder blade. "Tech?"

You glanced up as you continued forward, noting how his eyes narrowed behind his goggles, analyzing something further into the crowd. If you hadn't been in what seemed like a rather precarious situation- based on his current manner- you would find his closeness thrilling and unusual, but by his squared shoulders, you knew he was locked onto something questionable. "Apologies for my proximity." He spoke in a low, curt tone, eyes never meeting yours.

"Is...everything alright?" You questioned, trying to look around the crowd of people to see whatever was bothering the trooper.

Tech hummed in response, the rumble of his chest shaking through his armor and into your shoulder. "Our safety is secured for the present moment. Though it would be wise for my presence to be as near to you as comfortably possible for the duration of our outing."

You hadn't been out by yourself very many times with just Tech, possibly a time a two, but any time you had been it was always causal and friendly places. You'd seen Echo, Wrecker, or Hunter get protective in the face of social danger when you'd gone out with them before and it seemed like an evident connection to make that Tech (or even Crosshair) would've as well even though it hadn't been something you'd actually thought about before. However, now, you couldn't stop the way your heart ached at Tech's rapid transition from relaxed to defensive, the strong line of his jaw the first thing you caught sight of whenever you glanced up to make sure he was still on the lookout.

"Alright," you rushed out, "I'll be quick then. Sorry for the hassle, I didn't expect there to be an actual problem." Any more guilt you had been about to express died when you felt a large hand on the other shoulder blade, the warmth spreading through your entire body.

"Your apology is unwarranted. You required something, it is only sensible that one of us accompany you for protection. Although you are a reputable member of the GAR whom I have seen manage precarious situations rather exceptionally, I am certain every one of us would prefer to maintain your safety as much as we are capable." Tech finally glanced down to give you the slightest hint of a smile, accompanied by a reassuring nod. "Please, continue."

"Th-Thanks," was all you could dumbly reply as you tore your eyes away from the clone to search around for any pop-up stand that had what you had dragged Tech out here to get. It was some form of balm that you had needed to add to your collection for healing cuts and scrapes that the GAR hadn't entirely said was a part of the standard order of supplies but it worked as a wonderful substitute for bacta. It didn't take much longer to find a stand that was selling medical salves and the like, though the warmth of Tech's steady touch- whether from his chest or his hand- distracted you desperately.

While shopping through the procured items laid out, you felt Tech's hand fall away from your shoulder and a voice that was unknown to you spoke. "Listen goggles," the gruff man spoke, "just walk away from the woman and nobody has to get hurt, alright?"

As you began to turn, you were met with Tech's broad back blocking you as his hand came behind him to tuck you closer. "I regret to inform you that I am incapable of doing so." His voice was as steady and casual as typical for Tech, if you'd not known any better you would've thought he'd been speaking to Hunter or one of the others.

Choking out a gurgled laugh, the man pulled out a blaster, clicking off what you recognized as the stun. You were hardly terrified, Tech was highly skilled, though faced with a blaster you were worried he might be injured. Tech wasn't the first to respond with violence, opting instead to de-escalate the situation with a straightforward and disarming method. "I don't think you heard me, prick. I don't think you want to die over a whore, do you?" The insult hit you, surprised by its accusation and you placed a steadying hand on the backpack Tech wore, to steal a glance of the situation. You felt the hand that was placed on your arm tighten its grip protectively at your movement.

Tech was caught off guard by the insult as well, inclining his head at the shorter man. "Pardon me?"

"The whore, you fool. I want to whore. Move away so I can have her and we can part ways without anyone getting harmed." The man motioned with his blaster for Tech to step aside, though he remained unmoving.

Tech adjusted his goggles with his free hand, "by my estimation, it would seem that the only fool in our current location would be you. I will not be moving, so in light of our impasse, how would you prefer to proceed? By the tremble of your blaster, I would venture that you are incapable of properly wielding the weapon, which is a dangerous decision in and of itself. Again, it would seem you are the fool." Tech took a step forward, calm assurance complimenting his candid tone.

"B-Back up, freak! I'll blast you without a second thought." The man snarled as he raised his blaster higher toward Tech's chest. As you noted what Tech said, he was right- as always- the man's hand shook prominently. Though the sight of a blaster pointed so blatantly at the trooper was unsettling, you trusted him.

"Proper blaster decorum is to hold higher on the handle, finger over the trigger, and placed securely at the target of the blaster bolt." Tech's nonchalant lesson to the man seemed to only set the situation more on edge, which was surprising to you. He wasn't de-escalating, he was...antagonizing. "Is it standard practice here that any chakaaryc is allowed to carry a blaster?"

"A-Any...what?" The man asked confounded by the word he didn't understand, using his other hand to stabilize the blaster now as Tech approached closer to him.

It was normal for the Batch to use their Mando'a around one another, though they didn't use it much around others outside the GAR and even you didn't understand the language so you never paid attention to the words. Though now you were silently cursing yourself for not studying it, wondering what it was that Tech said.

"Di'kutla," Tech's voice lowered to a tone you hadn't heard him use before, it sounded almost...dangerous, "It is a Mandalorian translation for a filthy low-life, such as yourself."

"Why you!" The man's finger began to push the blaster's trigger and you felt your heart drop, stomach-churning, until you blinked and nearly missed the effortlessly elegant way Tech disarmed the man of his blaster. Crying in pain as his hand was bent backward while Tech placed the rogue blaster in his belt after switching it off, the man spat curses at the trooper. "She's just a whore, man! What's your big deal?!"

At the man's insistence on your status, Tech furthered his grip, causing him to yell out, Tech’s stoic composure- in contrast- never faltering. "I believe I have heard quite enough from you, mir'sheb."

"But-" Interrupting the man's argument, Tech's fist connected directly to the criminal’s face in a surprising display of brutality, effectively silencing him- and bloodying his nose.

"I said enough."

Standing in absolute awe of the current events, you were speechless, and before you could muster anything to say you watched as Tech yanked the stumbling man toward you by the grip on his wrist. "Forgive my lack of decency, mesh'la, though regarding his offense, this man owes you an apology."

"Tech, I-" You began, only for Tech to twist the man's arm behind his back and press him forward a bit harsher to which the man stumbled onto his knees, causing Tech to bend down with him, muttering apologies at your feet.

"Are you pleased with his display of atonement, cyar'ika?" Tech's honeyed eyes rose to meet yours, his tall frame bending over the man on the ground, refusing to let him free until you were satisfied. At your nod, he released his hold.

The man scurried to his feet and scuttled away as quickly as he could, nursing his wrist. Confusion washed over you as you glanced at the trooper, dusting off his hands and shuffling things around on his belt to make room for the blaster he had acquired. Once satisfied with his work, Tech met your eyes once more, adjusting his goggles nonchalantly. "Have you found what it is that we came to find?"

Still stunned by Tech's uncommon display of brute force and his complete willingness to act as if it has been just a normal day of the week, you stood there silently holding up the salve. "Wonderful, then we should return quickly." He sent a look around the sky to notice that it was dark now, "I am sure-" and as if on cue, Tech's comm link made a sound. Echo's voice rushed out with a stern use of Tech's name as soon as he’d answered it.

"Where in the galaxy are you two? I said to be quick!" The clone complained on the other end of the comm. Motioning for you to join at his side, Tech explained that you were momentarily disrupted but were unharmed and returning shortly.

While he spoke with Echo, you stared stupidly at the salve in your hand, replaying Tech making an absolute fool of the criminal. You'd never seen him react in such a way and you could feel your cheeks burning at how attractive the response had been to witness. What could've caused such a change in his approach? Of course, the Batch was known to be unconventional, so maybe Tech just thought the only way to dissuade the man was to use brute strength, but it just seemed like something bothered him. Could it have been when the guy insulted you?

A call of your name brought you back to the present, where Tech was standing in front of you, his hand extended. "Take my hand, please, it is quite dark. I do not wish to lose you in the crowd, it would seem this town is worse than I had originally read about. I will make a note to update the Republic's records properly." His hand enveloped yours delicately, pulling you closer to his side to guide you through the mass.

-

The walk back to the Marauder was quiet, your mind reeling from what happened. You were no stranger to difficult scenarios such as that one, so it wasn't as if you were scared just baffled.

"Stars! Finally, you two are back." Echo huffed in frustration as you emerged from the treeline. "Come on, we gotta get out of here. We're wanted back on Kamino for some new mission. Everyone else is already prepped to leave."

Tech merely nodded, saying something about how he'd set up the ship to be ready for the journey, and departed with a casual 'see you inside' as he let go of your name.

"What's wrong with you?" The accusation behind Echo's voice elicited a glare from you, none of this would've been an issue had he not forced Tech to go with you. You wouldn't be standing here struggling to erase the image of Tech decking a criminal right in the face. Replaying the sound of his voice when he demanded his apology to you for his insults...

This was Echo's fault. For sure.

"Tech punched someone, Echo." You explained with narrowed eyes to which the pale clone laughed as if the joke you tried to tell him was the funniest thing he'd heard. "No, I'm serious. He dropped this guy. He pulled a blaster on us and Tech just...punched him in the face."

"That's weird. Tech's not usually the type to-"

"TRUST ME," you raised your voice, "I'M AWARE."

Echo started laughing again, "I told you that he had a soft spot for you, sarad." He motioned for you to follow as he began his ascent up the gangplank, and punched the closure button when you joined him.

-

Later into the night, while you lay awake in your bunk, you tossed and turned trying to quieten the memory from earlier though it was a futile effort. The thought was driving you crazy.

Why had Tech reacted that way? It was just too out of the ordinary for him. It seemed far more personal than he ever responded.

And Echo's comments about him having some sort of bias toward you weren't helping the racing of your heart.

So you crawled out of your bunk, making sure not to wake anyone up as you tip-toed up to the main hull where there were small sounds of tinkering echoing. Of course, he was still awake.

"Mesh'la," Tech commented as you walked in, surprising him. "You are supposed to be asleep, what are you doing awake?"

Flashing him a grin as you took up residency in the co-pilot seat across from him, you pulled your legs up close to your chest. "Much like yourself, Tech, I couldn't sleep."

Adjusting his goggles, Tech blinked a few times in consideration. "Well, are there any extenuating circumstances that are barring you from getting the rest you usually require? Such as Wrecker's snoring? Crosshair mumbling in his sleep? Echo has a bad habit of shifting a lot during the night, could it be that?"

Shaking your head at his list of options, you took a breath, "I, actually have a question."

A glance in his direction showed his brow raising in confusion. "A question for me?" Upon seeing your nod he prompted you to continue, setting his tools aside to give you his undivided attention.

"Earlier..." you began, nervously playing with the hem of your GAR-issued pajama shirt, "in the town." Tech's intent gaze spurred you to continue, though you were anxious about how he would take the question. He was always truthful, but would he find the question odd? Would he think it was a stupid question? "You reacted differently than normal." You pointed about, changing directions a little, instead of asking a question.

"I am obligated to point out that your statement is not a question, cyare. However, your assessment is correct. It is not my usual course of action to resort to physical altercations in such situations..." He responded evenly. "Though, this circumstance required a unique response from me." His added comment confused you even more.

"Why?" You inquired, eyes now meeting his.

Tilting his head to the side slightly, his brows furrowed as if he were the perplexed one now. "I thought it would be obvious." His simple response was mildly bothersome. Of course, it wasn't obvious! That's why you couldn't sleep!

"Tech, you have to remember, sometimes, some of us need you to explain what's going on up there in that exceptional mind of yours." You clarified as you tapped your temple, gesturing for him with a soft smile on your face.

It dawned on him then, that perhaps it probably wasn't obvious to you. Though he struggled to find how to put it into words. "I was required to respond irregularly because he had offended you. Pointing a blaster at me is less of an issue, one I am perfectly well adept at discouraging," Tech's voice was unchanging until he glanced at his hands and his tone dropped. "It wasn't until his unwarranted comments regarding you that I felt my common strategy of de-escalating was not suitable enough. Your virtue demanded more than my words to right the occurrence." His eyes were still downcast as he spoke, seeming...embarrassed?

"My virtue?" You repeated his term of use.

Nodding, the clone finally met your eyes, the emotion behind his brown hues causing the breath to catch in your lungs. "Yes. I will never allow someone to speak so disparagingly about you in my presence. You deserve far more from those who say they care for you."

The blue streaks of hyperspace highlighted the contours of his handsome face, highlighting his features. It seemed as if time slowed to a crawl between the two of you at his admission. Was it a declaration of love, no, but it still burned in your chest as if it had been. "You care for me, Tech?"

"Considerably so, yes." The speed and certainty of his response felt as if it knocked you against the seat, like your first trip into hyperspace, kicking you back. His honesty was staggering every time. "If I can be forthright, I find that I am more partial to you than even my brothers are. I have spoken with Hunter at length about why this may be. The solution we have come to at the very moment is," Then he paused for a moment, considering his words carefully, "that I have a romantic interest in you. The signs of psychical attraction I have are evident, or so I thought. I desire to be close to you as often as possible, and the ability to speak with you about things is a welcomed one that I look forward to regularly."

As you listened, the burning in your chest only worsened. Tech not only punched a man because he insulted you, but punched a man who insulted you because of how much he cares about you and your honor? And now he was telling you how much he'd cared for you? This had to be a dream.

"Forgive me if this is not the answer you were envisioning, however, that does not change the truth of the answer to your query." Tech finished with a resolute nod, though the emotion did not leave his eyes.

You sat there across from him for a while in silence, reflecting, assessing, and gathering, but once everything sorted itself into place in your mind you rose from your seat to stand before Tech. He'd always been so straightforward, so honest with you...he only deserved the same in return.

Your hands hesitantly reached out, testing the waters of his current mood. When he didn't pull away, you caressed his jaw on either side lovingly, tilting his chin up to meet your eyes. The astonishment in them betrayed his outwardly calm demeanor as you leaned down to graze your lips against his, a whispered 'thank you' tumbling from your lips before you kissed him.

As if your confusion and amazement had been transferred to him, Tech merely sat in his seat, numbly. However, as you began to pull away, his hand quickly reached out to rest around the back of your head to stop you from going too far. Brown eyes explored your face as if you were an illusion, "you captivate and baffle me," he breathed out in wonderment, pulling you back in for another kiss, "show me more, please."

Laughing under your breath at his request you lowered yourself into his lap gingerly, "I'd love to, but right now, I just want to kiss you a little more."

________________________________________

Mando'a translations just in case- chakaaryc - lowlife, rotten,  di'kutla- useless/ worthless, mir'sheb- smartass

@stellarbit - this is for the both of us.

[dystopicjumpsuit]

DJ MY LOVE!

May I request, from the cuddle prompts, of you feel so inspired:

- Feeling the rumble of their chest when they talk while cuddling

Or

- Needing their cuddles even though they have something else to do

With Tech! Haven't asked for him in a while and I think we could all use some Tech fluff right about now.

(If you get a bunch of asks for the same Clone or just feel a pull towards another clone, feel free to change it. 😘)

A/N: REBEL MY LOVE! Thank you for this! I’ve never written Tech before, and I was a bit intimidated, so I hope I’ve done justice to our boy. Also, you get two prompts for the price of one 🩵

Pairing: Tech x Reader (GN; reader is shorter than Tech but not otherwise described, aside from having a rough morning and a tendency to keep things bottled up)

Rating: T (but as always, minors DNI)

Wordcount: 789

Warnings and tags: fluff, cuddles, Star Wars swearing, adult language

Summary: You swear to the Maker, if ONE MORE THING goes wrong today, you’re going to lose your mind. Tech has an exceptional idea for how to help.

Masterlist | Sign up for my tag list

“Dank farrik,” you muttered under your breath.

The kriffing durang fruit you’d planned on turning into muffins had gone off. It smelled like death itself, and you gagged as you tossed it into the trash compactor. With a sigh, you glanced at your chronometer and winced.

Late. Kark. 

You snatched up your cup of caf as your brain raced to think of an alternative breakfast that you could pull together in a hurry before your scheduled holocomm. Not that Omega or the Batch really needed you to cook breakfast for them, but Benduday morning muffins had become something of a tradition, and you really, really didn’t want to see the matching disappointment in Omega and Wrecker’s eyes when you told them they would need to fend for themselves that day.

Maybe Shep has some extra—

“MOTHERKRIFFER!” you exclaimed, cutting off your own train of thought as the lid on your mug popped loose and you doused yourself in hot caf.

A quiet rustle sounded from the front of the Marauder as Tech slid out from beneath the control console and sat up to watch you, setting aside his hydrospanner. With supreme effort, you managed to keep your eye from twitching as you braced yourself for a well-deserved lecture on your language.

“Is everything all right?” he asked instead.

“Peachy,” you grumbled, grabbing a towel to wipe off your shirt in disgust.

He rose quietly and approached. “I do not believe you.”

“What gave it away?” you snapped, flinging the towel into the sink with a frankly unnecessary level of force.

“You are upset. Given the relatively minor nature of the incident, I deduce that something else is bothering you. Do you wish to discuss it?”

“Not really.”

“Astonishing,” he said dryly. 

“The kriff is that supposed to mean?” you demanded.

“Merely that I have observed that you often prefer not to discuss your struggles, though I hope none of us have ever made you feel as though you should not speak freely when something is troubling you.”

You blinked, too surprised to be offended at his earlier sarcasm. “You have?”

“Indeed.”

Well… shit.

“It’s nothing,” you lied. Tech made no response, but he didn’t bother to hide his skepticism. “Fine. It’s a bunch of tiny somethings that have all piled up on top of each other, and nothing is going the way I had planned, and I’m hungry, damn it, and now I have to think of something to cook for breakfast, except I have no kriffing caf left to make my brain work, and I have no other fruit to make muffins, so Wrecker and Omega are going to give me the tooka eyes, and I have a stupid holocomm that I’m expecting at literally any minute, and I don’t even want to talk to them, but I feel like I have to, and I swear to the Maker, if ONE more thing goes wrong, I’m going to lose my ever-loving mind!”

You grabbed the towel and began to scrub the sink furiously, desperate to focus on something other than the conversation that you very much didn’t want to have. After a few seconds, though, you felt a weight on your shoulder. You turned to see Tech’s hand resting there, and for a moment you were so shocked that you stopped scrubbing. He was not usually one to initiate physical contact, and you had always tried to respect his boundaries.

“Tech?” you asked uncertainly.

“I have observed that you often seem to find comfort in Wrecker and Omega's hugs when you are upset. As Wrecker and Omega are not currently present, I would like to offer my own.”

“Are you sure?” you inquired, dumbfounded. “Aren't you busy with the repairs from Omega’s last flight lesson?”

“It can wait,” he replied. “Unless you would prefer not—”

His sentence cut off abruptly as you crashed into him, burying your face against his chest and wrapping your arms around his waist. His arms closed around your shoulders, and he held your head in one hand. You slumped against him, turning your head so you could breathe.

“Thank you,” you murmured.

“You are welcome,” he replied, the rumble of his voice vibrating against your ear as you rested your cheek against his chest. “I do not wish you to feel as though you must face all your struggles alone. Even the tiny ones.”

Just then, your comlink chimed with the dreaded holocomm.

“Do you wish to answer that?” he asked.

“Not really,” you admitted, “but I probably should.”

“May I propose an alternative course of action?”

“Propose away,” you replied.

“Remain with me, like this, and forget the holocomm,” he replied.

“You know what?” you asked. “That's an exceptional proposition. I accept.”

---

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[webslinger-holland]

Best Pilot in the Galaxy | Tech from The Bad Batch

Summary: During a mission, Tech has a hard time allowing his ship to be driven by someone else.

Warning: slight angst and argument

Pairing: Tech x Fem!Reader Pilot

Type: Oneshot

The Marauder was sitting on a world in the Outer Rim called Cassander. It was a lush, green planet with a few major bodies of water. However, most notably, the planet was growing in population and had recently become Ord Mantell's most competitive trading rival.

The ship was nearly empty, except for a singular pilot sitting in the cockpit. She was not the rightful owner of the ship, but had been assigned this mission with the group of rouge clones that did own the ship. The squad was located somewhere in the capital city nearby, attempting to steal the package in which they had come for. The pilot waited patiently for the pickup call.

Now, the pilot had been waiting for nearly two hours for the call to come through the comms. She did everything she could think of to pass the time, which included rummaging through the squad's belongings. Though she didn't find anything of value.

The gonk droid made a noise as he waddled into the cockpit. The pilot went through the ship's log, seeing all the planets the squad had recently visited. Their last stop happened to be Ord Mantell where they were assigned this mission in particular.

"Y/n! Come in," Hunter's voice sounded desperate over the comms. She quickly jolted forward in her seat, pressing the button to relay a message back.

"Read you loud and clear," Y/n responded. She began clicking buttons on the control panel, preparing the ship for liftoff.

"We need a pick up. We've been compromised," Hunter explained. He was panting on the other end of the line, which probably meant they were running.

"What part of stealth mission is so hard to understand?"

"Just hurry. We don't have a lot of time. They're sending air support," Hunter warned her.

"Oh great," Y/n scoffed sarcastically.

"I'm sending you our coordinates," Tech interjected over the communications.

As the Marauder departed off the ground, the landing gear retracted back into the ship. The wings moved downwards as the ship was angled towards the sky. The engine roared to life; the ship began flying towards the rendezvous location.

The workers from the trading post were shooting their blasters at the criminals running away from them. They tried to keep up with them, firing relentlessly as they got away with some of their own goods.

It was Wrecker, Hunter, and Tech who were carrying the heavy cargo in the form of a shipping container. Normally, it would take four guys to carry the cargo, but since Wrecker was so strong, he was able to carry the left side without help. Behind them, Echo and Omega fired shots back at the workers. They covered them as the rest ran as fast as they could.

"Whatever is in here, it better be worth it." Wrecker grunted, dodging the blaster fire.

"As long as we get paid," Hunter responded.

The small squad continued running through the vast forest, maneuvering around trees in hopes of using its coverage to their advantage. They came into a clearing with the workers getting closer each second. All of the sudden, a cliff came into their view which caused them to halt in their place.

"Where's our ride?" Echo asked desperately. He peered around his shoulder with his gun still raised.

"There!" Omega pointed into the sky.

The Marauder rounded the corner of the mountain, coming into their line of view. It flew over to the edge of the cliff to meet them. The ramp lowered to hover right by the cliff, allowing the squad to climb aboard the vessel.

The blaster fire was beginning to hit the sides of the ship. The squad fired back, striking a few of the workers down. Once everyone was aboard, Hunter slammed the button on the side of the wall so the ramp was lifted.

"That's everyone," Hunter shouted. "Get us out of here!"

"Roger that," Y/n said.

Pulling a lever, the thrusters sent a powerful volt back which propelled the ship forward rapidly. By steering the ship, Y/n directed the ship back into the mountain range. She could hear the air support coming up behind them. She took a sharp turn to deter them.

The sharp turn caused each member of the squad to loose their footing and grab something nearby to steady themselves. Carefully, Tech quickly made his way into the cockpit. He leaned over the back of the pilot's seat, resting his hand on the panel for support. He hadn't taken the time to remove his helmet.

"That is sufficient," Tech announced to the pilot. "I'll take it from here."

"A little busy here," Y/n stated instead. She turned the wheel to the left, taking another sharp turn which made everything in the ship turn that way. And Tech ended up leaning a little into her.

"Wrecker," Tech ordered. He moved to sit in the co-pilot seat which was where Echo usually sat. "Get to the tail gun."

There were at least six smaller ships following them at this point, firing as many rounds as possible. The Marauder swayed to the left and right, expertly dodging each blast aimed at them. In the tail gun, Wrecker got into position before firing back at the ships. He managed to hit one of them, but it wasn't enough to bring the ship down.

Back in the cockpit, Tech began pressing a few buttons on the control panel. The pilot glared at him through the corner of her eye, knowing exactly what he was trying to do. She maintained her grip on the sides of the wheel.

"Transitioning controls back to co-pilot," Tech announced. He went to press the final red button, but she swatted his hand away. "What are you doing?" Tech demanded an explanation.

"I know how to fly," Y/n said through gritted teeth. Her eyes were still facing forward as she focused on the task at hand.

"I never said you didn't," Tech informed her. "I am simply stating that I am ready to transition controls back to me as I am more capable of flying this vessel than you. It is my ship after all," Tech said as a matter of factly.

Hunter rolled his eyes in the background. He knew it was pointless to argue over the comment.

"You weren't hired to be the pilot for this mission," Y/n argued back. "I can get us out of this."

With that comment, one of the blaster fires struck the right wing which caused it to catch on fire. The two of them peered out the window, spotting the trail of black smoke falling behind the hit.

"You were saying?" Tech replied. He gestured to the damage done to his ship. She rolled her eyes at him.

A few more ships began trailing behind them. They began firing more shots towards them. There was no way one ship could take the whole fleet down.

"Uh guys," Wrecker announced from the tail gun. "We've got more incoming."

Ignoring the comment, Tech quickly transitioned controls back to his wheel before the other pilot could protest. He gripped the wheel harshly, moving the wheel to take a sharp left hand turn. The ship was forced to swerve around the side of the mountain; a few of the enemy ships crashed into the sides as a result. She switched controls back to her wheel, taking a right hand turn. The ship weaved around another mountainside.

Behind the googles of his helmet, Tech squinted his eyes in slight irritation. He changed controls once again. He quickly grabbed onto the lever, pulling it backwards so the thrusters gave another jolt of energy. Now they were flying a little faster.

Nevertheless, another blaster hit managed to strike the back of the ship. The Marauder jolted forward from the force of the blast. The two pilots lurched forward in their seats. The others continued to hold onto things for support.

"You aren't doing much better," Y/n replied snakily. She reached forward to press the button once more. She turned the wheel as far as she could, which caused the ship to completely turn around. She pulled the lever for the extra push.

"What are you doing?" Tech exclaimed. "Are you trying to get us killed?"

Down in the tail gun, Wrecker began firing at the ships flying directly in front of them. With his expertise, he struck down three ships. Those ships exploded into a million pieces, fierce flames erupting around them. The Marauder flew through the fire without taking damage.

The enemy ships needed to turn around before continuing their chase. They quickly swerved their ships. Once the ships were facing the right way, the thrusters kicked in for that extra power. And the enemy continued their pursuit.

"I will only say this one more time," Tech's modulated voice spoke through his helmet. He turned to face her in his seat. His eyes looked angry behind his googles. "Relinquish controls now."

"Over my dead body," Y/n challenged him. She didn't take her eyes off him.

In the background, Hunter and Echo seemed to raise their eyebrows at the two pilots. They looked between them, half expecting one of them to cave in and go back to flying the ship. But neither of them faltered.

"Uh guys," Omega interrupted them.

Both of them directed their line of attention back towards flying the ship. With a quick maneuver, they managed to dodge the mountain they were heading straight for at the last second. A few more ships crashed into it.

"You're both going to get us all killed if you don't figure something out," Hunter shouted behind them.

Reaching forward, Y/n went to press a few more buttons, but Tech swatted her hand away this time. He went ahead and pressed his own buttons. He was punching in the coordinates for their destination.

"You are not the best pilot in the galaxy," Y/n claimed. She glanced at him through the corner of her eye. He kept putting in the coordinates.

"Hardly a measurable cause," Tech said with a roll of his eyes in annoyance.

"You haven't made the Kessel Run in fourteen parsecs," Y/n added. It was like she was insisting that it could be measurable.

"I have a theory that it can be done in twelve," Tech stated as a matter of factly.

"I highly doubt that," Y/n chuckled at the comment.

Suddenly, Y/n pressed the wheel forward with all of her might. The ship began to descend down at a rapid pace, shifting into a nose dive position. The ground was growing closer and closer with each second. The enemy ships following right behind them, firing non-stop.

Both Hunter and Echo were holding onto panels behind them. The force of falling forwards was pushing them back. They were unable to move.

"You have to pull up--" Tech ordered in a slight panic.

"Oh for the last time," Y/n shouted over him. "I know what I'm doing!"

At the last possible second, the wonderfully skilled pilot pulled the wheel into her chest so that the ship was pulled up. It was so close to touching the ground, but it missed it by a hair. The last two ships crashed into the ground, exploding suddenly and sending debris flying.

Now that the threat of the chase was finally over, Y/n could relax in her seat a little. The rest of the squad was completely silent, realizing that she had managed to get them out of the situation with little damage in the end. Beside her, Tech kept his eye on her since he was still angry with her.

The Marauder started to climb in altitude, shifting towards the edge of the planet's atmosphere. It finally passed through the atmosphere, flying through space. The stars throughout the galaxy sparkled as the planet grew small and smaller. It was now all behind them.

"Are the coordinates to Ord Mantell in?" Y/n wondered. Her voice was so much calmer now. Her shoulders slumped at her sides. But she refused to make eye contact.

"Yes. They are in," Tech informed her softly. His eyes softened behind his helmet. He studied her carefully, trying to figure out what she was thinking in that brain of hers. He quickly shook it off, directing his attention back towards the void of space in front of them.

Without thinking, Tech and Y/n went to reach for the lever to send them into hyperspace. Their hands grazed each other's with neither of them being any closer to the lever than the other. They both awkwardly pulled their hands away upon contact.

"I'm sorry," Y/n muttered under her breath.

He wasn't sure if she was apologizing for the situation they just came out of or the situation that just occurred with the lever. Nevertheless, she reached for the lever once again, pulling it back to send the ship into hyperspace.

Back at Ord Mantell, the Bad Batch went back to Cid's Parlor. They stood on the other side of her desk, having just delivered the cargo that she paid them to retrieve. She peered into the package, checking to make sure everything was there.

Behind the group, Y/n stood there in total silence. Her eyes were trained on the floor as she shifted in her place awkwardly. She waited for their boss to address them.

Beside her, Tech stood about an arm's length away. He glanced at her through the corner of his eye, taking note of her odd demeanor. He raised his finger and opened his mouth to say something to her, but he was rudely cut off.

"Looks like everything is here," Cid announced. She closed the cargo container. She began rummaging through her drawers, collecting the correct amount of credits to pay both parties.

Now Y/n went to take a few steps forward and made her way through the members of the squad. She stood in front of the desk. Her boss went ahead and placed a handful of credits in her hand.

"That is your cut," Cid told her. She handed the rest of the credits to Hunter. "And here is your cut. I'll call you when I have another job," Cid claimed.

There was a brief moment of silence in the room. Cid went to cross her arms over her chest. She narrowed her eyes at the company of six standing in front of her.

"You guys work well together," Cid said honestly. "You should work together more often."

In response, Y/n breathed a scoff under her breath. The boys turned their heads to look at her, slightly surprised at her reaction. She shook her head in denial.

"Yeah. Like that's ever going to happen," Y/n rolled her eyes at the notion.

Without hesitation, she spun around on the heels of her feet in order to head towards the door. She purposely bumped into Tech's shoulder a little too harshly. She left the room with the door closing behind her.

"What's wrong with her?" Cid scoffed. She looked at the rest of the squad for some form of explanation, but none of them said anything. "Fine! Be all quiet and mysterious. See if I care," Cid said.

By the time the Bad Batch left Cid's office, Y/n was nowhere to be found in the bar. They went to sit down at the bar so they could order drinks to celebrate another successful mission. They sat in complete silence, thinking about what transpired during the mission.

"Where do you think she's gone?" Echo wondered.

Though they never pulled missions together, the Bad Batch knew that the pilot worked for Cid and was stationed at Ord Mantell. They had seen her quite often over the past few months. They had grown familiar of her. And now they worried about her.

"The odds are that she returned to her flat," Tech explained. He pushed the bridge of his googles up to be more secure on his face. He kept his focus on his data pad.

"Probably," Hunter shrugged his shoulders. "But it's late. Which means it's dark out."

"Astute observation," Tech claimed sarcastically. He gave a single nod, but didn't take his eyes off his data pad.

"And she's walking back to her flat...at the edge of town...late at night," Hunter further explained.

"She will be fine," Tech stated. He knew where he was going with this. "She is always saying how she can take care of herself and doesn't need our help. Why would that change now?"

The other members remained silent. They turned their heads to take quick glances at one another. With a silent agreement, Hunter rose to his feet and went to stand by Tech. He roughly grabbed his shoulders and hoisted him out of his seat, much to his dismay.

"Go find her. Make sure she gets home safe. And apologize to her," Hunter ordered.

"I do not see why I have to be the one to apologize when I did noth--" Tech began. He was quickly cut off.

"Tech," Hunter said in a warning tone of voice. He crossed his arms over his chest, showing that he meant business.

"Fine," Tech said in defeat. "I will apologize."

With some hesitation, Tech grabbed his helmet and fitted it over his head. He began making his way towards the door of the parlor, leaving the rest of his crew behind. He walked through the deserted streets of Ord Mantell, passing a few shady people in the process.

Now Tech knew that she lived near the edge of town because she had once mentioned it during a conversation. Besides that, Tech really didn't know where to look and simply hoped he'd bump into her before she got home so he'd know she was safe. He passed by a few alleys, peeking through each one briefly.

The Marauder was parked in a hanger bay only a few blocks away from the parlor. Just as Tech passed by the hanger, he heard a familiar voice coming from his very own ship. He backtracked by taking two steps backwards. He peered into the hangar bay to glance at his ship.

Stepping into the bay, Tech tilted his head to the side in slight curiosity. The right wing of the ship began to move downwards until it lay completely horizontal. A few seconds later, Y/n began descending down the ramp with a toolbox in hand. She walked over to the wing of the ship.

Upon seeing her, Tech sharply inhaled. He felt the back of his throat close up and his shoulders tensed at his sides. He hesitantly took a few steps forward, fiddling with his fingers nervously.

Reaching upwards, Y/n placed the single toolbox onto the flat surface of the ship's wing. She proceeded to grab onto the wing before hoisting herself up onto it. She climbed to the center of the wing to assess the damage inflicted in the crossfire.

At this point, Y/n had no idea that he was also in the hanger bay with her. She opened the toolbox, rummaging through to find the right tool. The damage done to the right wing was a massive gaping hole with burnt edges from the fire. It would eventually need a panel welded to cover it up again. But for now, she focused on the internal repairs.

Thankfully, from the assessment, nothing major had been hit. A few bolts had gotten loose and a few parts needed to be replaced. She focused on that for now.

After grabbing a socket spanner, Y/n leaned down to place her arm into the gaping hole of the wing. It went so far down that her chest was practically pressed against the surface of the wing. She used the spanner to tighten some bolts.

"What...are you doing?" Tech decided to finally announce his presence. He stepped forward until he stood in the light coming from the opening of the hanger bay.

Upon hearing that familiar voice, Y/n only rolled her eyes to herself. She continued her work as she preferred to focus on repairs rather than on him. She grunted softly, making sure that first bolt was nice and tight.

"What do you want Tech?" Y/n wondered. She pulled her arm out of the hole to assess her work. She didn't even bother to glance towards him, knowing he would have sent her a look of disapproval for working on his ship.

Slowly, Tech began to lower his gaze to the floor. He contemplated his next words carefully, fighting the urge to lash out at her for meddling with his ship. He liked things to be a certain way and would have much preferred if he did the actual repairs. Now Tech didn't want to fight with her so he changed his approach.

"I analyzed that you left the parlor on your own and thought it would be better if I accompany you back home," Tech explained. She huffed at his answer.

"I've told you before," Y/n began. "I can--"

"Take care of yourself," Tech finished. He adjusted the lenses of his goggles though he still wore his helmet. He noticed how she fell silent. "Yes, I've gathered that much."

"Why are you really out here?" Y/n wondered. She went to lean down again in order to tighten more bolts.

"I...could ask you the same," Tech replied slowly. He honestly felt like this was the first civil conversation they had ever had.

"I wanted to make some repairs on your precious ship since it was apparently my fault," Y/n claimed. Her tone sounding a little harsher now. She tightened two more bolts in the process.

"That is not what I meant," Tech interjected. He took a step forward. He gazed up at her figure perched on the wing, attempting to reason with her. "I was...caught up in the moment. Shouldn't have said those things," Tech confessed quietly.

"Well, don't worry. As soon as I finish up these repairs, I'll leave and you'll never have to see me again," Y/n responded.

For some reason, Tech couldn't combat a response to her comment. He simply nodded his head understandingly. He lowered his gaze to stare down at the ground and allowed her to finish her repairs in silence. He thought for some time how he could fix this relationship since it wasn't his strong suit. Fixing things was more his style.

"Blast," Y/n's voice pulled him out of his train of thought. He glanced up at her.

The sleeve of her blue flight suit had gotten in the way of her repairs. She had rolled her sleeves up to keep the material out of her way, but the sleeves continued to fall back down to her wrists every time she placed her arm in the hole. She pulled back and rose to her feet.

Without hesitation, Y/n's hands flew to the top button of her flight suit. She began to undue the buttons in which she revealed the black tank top underneath. All the while, Tech studied her carefully as her nimble fingers worked steadily. His pupils dilated behind those goggles of his.

Upon reaching her waistline, Y/n had stopped unbuttoning and shrugged the suit off her shoulders. She tied the sleeves around her waist. She dropped to her knees to continue working without the distraction of her clothes getting in the way.

Slowly, Tech raised his hand to the side of his head and clicked the bottom to save the recording to the drive. He records everything and he was certainly glad he recorded that. He wanted to revisit the recording later for his own 'research' purposes.

"There," Y/n sighed. She sat back on her knees, wiping her dirty hands on the pants of her flight suit. "Repairs are finished."

Naturally, Y/n began to pack away the tools she used and placed them back into the box. She closed the lid of the toolbox, tossing it over the edge of the wing for it to land on the ground with a thump. She then proceeded to jump down off the wing of the ship, landing a little hard so her knees buckled slightly.

Just like she promised, Y/n had every intention of leaving the hanger bay so that they'd never have to see her again. She went to walk away, but just as she passed beside him, Tech reached out and grabbed her forearm. She halted in her steps.

Neither of them could look at each other. She felt his gloved fingers digging into her bare skin, but not hard enough that it would leave marks. She slowly turned to look at him, but he kept his head down.

"I...really came here to apologize," Tech confessed. When Tech lifted his gaze to meet her face, he saw how her eyebrows went up in slight surprise. It definitely caught her off guard.

"I see," Y/n thought about his words carefully. She shifted her balance from one foot to the other. "So all those things you said back on Cassander where just...what?"

He closed his eyes, seriously regretting everything he said. "Like I said earlier, in the moment, I was incredibly frustrated with you."

"Because I wouldn't give up the controls?" Y/n said flatly.

"No, because I recognize that my levels of dopamine are elevated when I'm around you and I distance myself from you in order to prevent that from happening,” Tech confessed before he could even stop himself.

But now, hearing what he just said, Tech quickly averted his gaze away from her. He was thankful to be wearing his helmet so she wouldn't see how bright his cheeks had gotten. He released his grip on her arm, letting it fall back down to his side.

For once, Y/n actually understood what he said. Her eyebrows rose in surprise at this sudden confession. She definitely did not expect him to blurt out his emotions that night, especially after their fight on the ship. She knew better than to tease him at a time like this.

"I-I don't understand why," Tech said rather sadly. That was the first time that he'd spoken those words out loud.

What broke her heart was the tone of defeat laced with his words. It told her that he'd been wrestling with these foreign emotions and thoughts for some time. He didn't know how to react around her and so he acted with defense. He pushed those feeling away, fighting against it.

Hesitantly, Y/n lifted her hands to the sides of his helmet. She went to remove his helmet slowly, revealing his face to her for the first time today. She tossed the helmet to the side without a care in the world, but he still refused to meet her gaze.

"You are probably repulsed by me," Tech began. "From the way I treated you and the words I said to--"

But Tech wasn't able to finish that sentence. Because Y/n had taken his face in her hands and leaned upwards to press her lips against his own. He froze in his place.

His eyes were wide open in surprise. His hands were elevated on either side of him because he didn't know what to do with them. He could feel the softness of her lips still against his own. Before Tech had the chance to process what was happening, Y/n pulled away from him.

The two of them were standing so close together; the chests being pressed against one another's. Their breath mingled as their noses bumped together once or twice. He glanced down at her lips because he wanted nothing more than to taste them once more.

His hands found their way down to her hips with one hand sneaking around her lower back. He pressed that hand into her back which brought her body even closer to his. She released a small gasp.

"Apology accepted," Y/n whispered to him. She played with the edge of the plastoid armor on his chest. "And I'm sorry for the way I acted towards you."

"Why cyare?" Tech wondered. He raised his hand to the side of her face, tucking a single strand of hair behind her ear. He held his hand against her cheek.

"I should have given up the controls. You are the better pilot and it is your ship," Y/n explained with a shake of the head.

"I am not the better pilot," Tech stated firmly.

There was a moment of silence between them. "I can't make split second decisions and calculations like you do when you're flying."

"Well, I've never done the Kessel Run." Tech argued back playfully. He smiled down at her. "At least, not in twelve parsecs."

"Fourteen," Y/n corrected him. "I did it in fourteen."

"Fine. Fourteen," Tech caved in.

Slowly, Tech tilted his head to the side and began to lean down with every intention of kissing her again. But the two of them were interrupted when someone cleared their throat over by the entrance of the hanger bay. The two of them quickly pulled apart and turned to face whoever had interrupted them.

The other members of the Bad Batch stood looking at them near the entrance of the hanger. It was initially Hunter who had cleared his throat to garner their attention; he stood with his arms folded across his chest just as a disapproving father would. Beside him, Wrecker and Omega were practically squealing with each other. They couldn't contain their excitement. And Echo averted his gaze in an awkward manner.

"Care to explain yourselves?" Hunter hinted. He glanced between the two of them with a playful smirk on his face.

"I think they finally confessed that they like each other," Wrecker interrupted. His words coming out louder than anticipated. He nudged Echo who stood beside him.

"You think?" Echo glanced at him.

"It's exciting, isn't it?" Omega smiled at them.

Meanwhile, Tech quickly collected his helmet off the ground and placed it over his head once again. He hoped it would cover the blush creeping up his neck to his face. He knew he wouldn't hear the end of the taunting from his brothers anytime soon.

"Well boys. It looks like we got another member on our crew," Hunter said slowly. "Welcome to the Bad Batch."

[jordosprout]

Hello! I have a fic idea where the reader has a sensory meltdown and even though the others try to help they don't really know what to do but then Tech comes in with all the know-how on how to approach/help.

Maybe it could be taking place during the race Tech did and the reader gets overwhelmed by the sound and the heat and anxiety and Tech comes in for the rescue after the race ends, or maybe on a mission and Hunter asks Tech to take you aside/back to the marauder and tells him that they have it handled.

I think it'd be cool if Tech silently brought out sensory items and waited patiently with you and then opens up about how he has the same issue but maybe he usually shuts down instead or has a meltdown alone. Sorry I had a few ideas I wanted to share, hope this ask isn't too overwhelming! <3

Alright, took me awhile but I finished your request! I ended up going with the race plot :) I apologize for the wait. I wanted to do my best to portray everything correctly.

Sprouting Within the Soul

Tech x GN!Reader SFW Comfort Fic (gender-neutral pronouns used, little physical description.) (Can be read as platonic)

Reader is a phytotoxin specialist and becomes a clone medic. Story takes place on Safa Toma where Tech comforts them during an autistic meltdown.

Warnings: Talk of overstimulation, stimming, meltdowns, and gentle praise.

Notes: Phytotoxin- plant poison. I'm still getting used to Tumblr so no fancy dividers yet :,) I am working on making some for personal use

WC: 3,955

Setting up readers' story, skip if wanted!

__

You didn’t enjoy medicine as much as you did vegetation. But the two interests mixed into a love for phytotoxin, and you found yourself as a specialist clone medic 2 months before you fled with Omega; working alongside her during that time. You grew deeply attached to the special little clone; knowing nothing could separate you.

She told you everything she could about the Clone Force 99; from their names all the way to their genetic mutations. And during one of those one-sided conversations, she told you about the inhibitor chips. This is what sparked your questions about the clones true purpose.

Your interactions with the boys themselves were brief. However, that would suddenly change.

Omega told you that she felt that Kamino was in danger, and you believed her immediately. It didn’t matter what it was that made her feel that way. You trusted Omega, and the thought of not knowing if she was safe scared you. You accompanied her, and her brothers, off-world; not a second guess in your mind.

Leaving the life you came accustomed to was hard. Especially when you were being so abruptly transitioned to a chaotic one. But the others, especially her brother Tech, did their best to ease you into the new life.

__

With Hunter and Echo being off on their own mission, it was just you Wrecker, Omega, and Tech today. A day you'd absorb every calm second you were given.

You were sitting beside Tech at the bar, him looking into poisonous plants for you.

You noticed that when he found out about your love for the subject, he took it personally. He took every moment he could to talk to you about the various flora of the universe. It wasn't a rare occurrence for him to share something you already knew. But that never mattered or annoyed you. You were just happy someone took part in your interests. Sometimes, he would tell you something that you surprisingly knew nothing of. Others, he would mention something you knew plenty about and you’d talk to him about it for hours.

It felt good having someone to talk to (or at) that clearly enjoyed it.

Just as he would offer you his ear, you would offer him yours. Always listening and enjoying whatever facts he had on his current interests. His passion for the things he knew made them all the more interesting. His voice and excitement would never get old to you.

Even though you felt seen by Tech, you still had moments of worrying you said something wrong. He never gave you a reason to think that you may have offended him, but you couldn’t help the anxiety. So you would often overexplain your intentions. He allowed you to say what you felt you needed to in order clear your intentions, and would then follow up in calm reassurance. He was always a source of calm patient energy, something you never got enough of.

But your day was swiftly stolen by a green Trandoshen. Cid, of course, had a last-minute mission for the four of you. You huffed to yourself, you just got comfortable watching Omega and Wrecker’s Mantell-Mix bet!

You were tracing circles with your finger on the countertop; cheek resting on its cool surface. Omega and Wrecker were playing Dejarik. Hearing them laugh and get competitive with each other made you smile.

“Hey I heard that! Don't get sassy with me Bacta Bunny. I have a mission for you and you're taking it!” 

You scowled at the nickname, your reaction being noticed only by Omega, who looked at you briefly before looking at Cid. You found the nickname demeaning- as if all you were was the occasional medic the batch needed.

“Hunter and Echo aren't back from the other mission yet.” Omega told Cid, confused as to why they would do something without them.

“I would not call transporting 50 cases of nerf nuggets a ‘mission’. Nor is it a proper use of our skill set,” Tech added to Omega’s statement.

You rested your head into the palm of your hand, leaning into it, “Tech isn't wrong Cid. You're wasting what ya’ got. There are better uses of our skill y’know.”

“Yeah, well, your skill set will come in real useful on this one. Especially you, Muscles. You're gonna be my security crew.”

Your head lifted at that, “Hey now security for what? What did you do that requires security?”

Tech nodded in agreement, “We will require a more detailed briefing than that.”

“No time. The shuttle's waiting.” Cid dodged, already at the door. You disliked how secretive Cid was. Why couldn't she just tell you what you needed to know?

Wrecker tossed Omega her little helmet, and of course, Omega gave you all her usual wishful thinking.

“Maybe it'll be fun.”

“Heh, works for me.”

“Wrecker, you're saying that as if you're difficult to convince,” you bantered teasingly, you loved the big guy but you weren't wrong. He was easy to convince. He just grinned and gave you a mix of a laugh and grunt before following Omega.

You sat for a moment, wishing you could easily adapt the same way Wrecker and Omega did. But you couldn't help but feel anxious with the sudden change to your schedule.

Tech sighed and you gave him a small pat on the shoulder before jumping off your barstool.

It shouldn't be all that bad, should it?

__

As soon as your shuttle landed, you were met with muffled crowds and people. 

‘Just a little noise. I can handle this’

“I am beginning to understand the need for added security in a place like this.” Tech mentioned to the group, taking in the nature of the people around him.

“Safa Toma can be a little rough around the edges if you don't know what you're doing. But lucky for us I know my way around. And if things get dicey, that's where you come in.”

You looked at the back of Omega’s head once Cid said that last sentence. You weren't particularly fond of how much danger she was constantly in. Yes, she's a clone like her brothers. And clones were indeed made to fight. But she's only a kid and is already dealing with so much. You placed your left hand on her right shoulder, and she gave you two pats in response. Something she always did to let you know she'd be fine.

But once you exited the building, and were blasted with Safa Toma’s boiling sun and restless crowds, you felt like you were the one who might not be fine. You took a deep breath to ground yourself, but the air dried out your nose making you more uncomfortable. 

‘This shouldn't be a long mission. It's just security.’

The cheering got louder as you became surrounded by people, constantly getting bumped into. The machines on what appeared to be a race track flashed by directly in front of you, any loose hair you had whipped in the direction they flew towards; tickling your skin.

You stayed behind Omega and held your hands together, rubbing the flesh between your left hand’s pointer and thumb to soothe yourself.

“Whoa!” Omega was leaning on the rail, trying to take in everything happening on the track.

“It's called Riot Racing.” Cid said, clearly only talking to Omega.

One of the racers began shooting at an opponent ahead of it, resulting in the victim crashing into one of the walls. 

“Wow! Did you see that?” Wrecker excitedly asked Omega. You glanced at Tech whose eyes were wide behind his goggles.

‘Well if Omega didn't Tech definitely did.’

“It appears anything goes out there.” 

The PA system announcer began narrating the scene in front of all of you. Declaring the steal of the lead, that was apparently carried out by Cid’s racer.

__

You blindly followed Cid and the others after TAY-0’s win, falling slightly behind. You fixated on your hands, attempting to tune out the obnoxious droid in front of you. Any other day his quips would pull a small laugh from you. But the sun felt like it was getting hotter, and the crowd seemed louder and fuller. You didn't understand how Omega was handling it so well, she didn't have the climate-controlled armor her brothers did. 

‘If Omega can handle it then why can't I?’

“Your ringer is a droid?” Tech queried Cid, getting what would barely count as a real answer from the droid instead. 

“Oh, I'm so sorry. You have a problem with droids, human? You think you can make the split-second calculation to win out there? You want to challenge TAY-0?” the droid asked, defensively getting up in Tech's face. And of course, Tech gave little to no physical reaction.

“I do not have enough information about this sport to determine that at this time.” 

“Then take a seat, spectacled spectator.”

Okay, you held in a snort with that one. That was really clever.

Wrecker on the other hand was quite upfront with his reaction, repeating TAY-0 and bumping Tech. 

__

You sat against a wall as repairs were made to the droid's speeder. You chose to ignore what was going on for the time being. You weren't needed at the moment, so you should take advantage of that. You closed your eyes and pressed into the wall, trying to grasp all the peace you were given.

Which wasn't much apparently.

A large man found his way into the pit, three smaller men behind him. You stood after he greeted Cid, his tone making you realize he was the reason she needed security. And when he approached Omega you quickly made your way behind her next to Wrecker; all of your hands making their way to your designated blasters. 

“Not gonna introduce me to your new crew?”

‘Why’s that matter to him?’

He gave a hearty laugh, “They're not gonna help you win.”

Cid stood up to Millegi, looking much shorter than she already did in front of him. 

“Oh, I know I'm gonna win.”

After a few seconds of intimidation from Millegi, he offered a bet. It was frustrating how quickly Cid agreed. Of course, she'd take any chance she could to make some credits.

You spaced out for a moment before Cid insisted on hurrying up with the minor repairs. She was going to be much pushier now that credits were on the line. 

__

You paced behind the others, feeling restless now being back at the track. You looked up only for a moment when Wrecker returned, then back to the ground. You could feel your patience for today running low. You were rather surprised to hear Tech say he didn't know who'd win. But you knew he'd figure it out eventually, he always does.

But when TAY-0 took damage, and Millegi’s racer won the round, you knew Millegi wouldn't be far.

So you rushed to help collect the pieces of TAY-0 from the track and held your guard for when he'd eventually show up. 

And he did, of course, with Cid not having any credits to give him.

“Wanna step in here? I didn't bring you three for the company.” 

And with your cue, you put on your helmet and hovered a hand over your blaster. Millegi's men were quick to point their own at you. Of course, Omega spoke up, “Wait how much does she owe?” 

“More than you got, kid.”

“Well,” she paused for a moment, “we're not done yet.”

“Omega…” you whispered, “Don't. Stand down.”

“That's right. Looks like you're done to me.” 

“One last race. If you win, we pay you double.” 

You groaned into your helmet and shared looks between Tech and Wrecker. This could either go really well or really bad.

“If we win, we get Cid.”

“You don't know what you're getting into, kid.”

You followed in suit with the boys, Tech speaking up first, “I'm inclined to agree with him, Omega.”

“Yeah, I'm inclined too. We don't know anything about racing” Wrecker added, not at all slick about the confession.

“Omega this can very easily end very badly.” You told her worriedly

“They're gonna hurt Cid if we do nothing.”

You breathed in deeply through your nose. Omega was not one to lose determination. And you all knew that. You crossed your arms and stood behind her. If this is what she really wants to do, then you'll just have to stand with her.

“So we have a deal?”

“We race tomorrow. And I keep Cid as collateral.”

As his men collected Cid, Millegi gave a warning, “For your sakes, you better be able to pay up.”

You looked down at Omega, “I suppose that went well?”

__

After Omega spent some time on the speeder, you offered to take her place to get a break. She nodded and jumped down from the table, you taking her place. 

“Do we really need to fix him right away? He isn't exactly pleasant company,” you joked slightly.

“Well, he is already partially operational. So it is a bit late now. Speaking of, with a few more adjustments, he may be capable of racing.”

TAY-0 was basically summoned by your conversation, “Uh, that is hilarious. I am more than capable. I am ready to– Where are my arms and legs!?” You laughed to yourself and looked up to finish the repairs that were left on the speeder. TAY-0 was entertaining, but he's also just… a lot.

Wrecker came into the pit and dropped off the rest of TAY-0's parts.

“No, that's not how you connect the servo. Let TAY-0 instruct you how to do this properly.”

You grinned at Tech’s response. What can you say? You enjoyed his sass.

__

Nightfall came, and Safa Toma was finally quieter and cooler. But you still felt uneasy. All day has been dealing with people and TAY-0, and now you have to sleep in the pit. You tossed in your sleeping bag, Wrecker and Omega already sleeping beside each other. You covered your eyes with your forearm, hoping the pressure would help you sleep. 

You lifted it though when you heard rustling beside you. 

“Hey Tech, finished working on TAY-0?”

“Yes, he is fully operational for tomorrow's race.”

You nodded and yawned before turning on your side. The ground was hard and the sleeping bag didn’t help as much as it should.

“Problem?” Tech asked, now behind you.

“Oh, no Tech I’m alright. Just been a long day and I didn’t realize how long we would be here for. But I’m alright.”

He shuffled, likely laying down himself. You knew he could sleep just about anywhere, and honestly, it’s a skill you were a bit jealous of.

“I understand. I am not a fan of sudden plans myself, let alone ones with little explanation. I may be used to dealing with them, but they are still difficult.”

You smiled to yourself. “I’m sure we won’t be here too long.”

“Hopefully not”

__

You wished Cid would have prepared you for where you would be in some way. It felt like you were being cooked underneath your gear and it was miserable. Even when you stayed behind in the pit, there was still all of the noise and the fact you were somewhere completely new with no way to get away.

Two days in a row of dry heat. Two days of screaming. Two days of an obnoxious amount of people and tense interactions. And it was getting to you. Normally it wouldn’t bother you, or at the very least if it did you’d be able to get away from everything. But not being able to escape made it feel like you were suffocating. And as Omega and Wrecker cheered along with the crowd, you slipped away to find quiet.

It proved to be a harder task than you thought it would be, that in itself made you feel worse. But after struggling to find a place to rest, you gave up and decided a place with no people would be enough. You couldn’t help tearing off your helmet and gear, slamming it to the ground as you took your frustrations out on it. You slumped against the first sturdy object you found. The shade was minimal, but it was there. At least you were alone.

After a few minutes, you faintly heard Tech’s name being chanted. And after 5 more standard minutes went by, your comlink beeped. You ignored it, only for it to beep again. And when it did, you tore it off and threw it as far as you could. You couldn’t stand the noise. Or any noise at this point of your mental state.

You covered your ears and held your eyes shut, blocking out as much as you could.

__

Tech was surprised when he exited his speeder and you weren’t with Wrecker or Omega. And when he asked about your whereabouts, they were surprised too, worrying him even more.

“They were behind me!” Worry and defensiveness laced Wrecker’s tone. They both knew that Safa Toma wasn’t a safe planet for someone to go off by themselves. And after Tech commed you twice with no response, he was definitely certain something wasn’t right.

“I will be back, I am going to track the com signal and check in.”

“I wanna come too!” Omega pleaded with Tech, but he shook his head.

“Negative. We do not know the situation. If assistance is required, then you will be notified.”

Omega didn’t like the idea of not going with, but listened anyway. Wrecker keeping her occupied until Cid and Millegi showed up.

Following your com signal, he eventually found you. He was relieved to see you were safe.

“Ah there you are.” You didn’t respond. At first Tech thought you just didn’t hear him, so he tried again.

“Problem?”

You said nothing, instead shifting where you sat. He said it again. But again, there was nothing. He approached.

He saw all of your gear strewn about on the ground around you. Then took a moment to study your body language. Your hands were over your ears, and your eyes were tightly shut. You made yourself small where you sat.

‘Oh’

He looked around to try and see what he could do to change your surroundings, but when he couldn’t find anything he chose to sit beside you. Your eyes were still squeezed shut, moisture at their corners as you snapped your fingers. Your body couldn’t decide between refusing stimuli or letting it out. He remembered the one-time use earplugs he kept on him for Hunter (or for himself), taking them out of a pocket and placing them next to you. 

“Here,” he said softly, only saying what was necessary.

You grabbed them and placed them in your ears, taking in a shaky breath. You brought your knees to your face and pressed them into your eyes. Your hands were free to move about however they needed to. 

He chose that simply offering his presence until you expressed you needed him would be best. He knew that sometimes interacting with others during a meltdown was hard. At least, it was for him. He grabbed his data pad from one of his many pockets to occupy himself while he gave you time. He would be there when you were ready, no matter how long that might be. It would be a few minutes before you said anything or acknowledged him in any way.

“Did you win?”

He looked up at you, your cheek resting on your knee as you looked in the opposite direction of Tech. Your sudden break of silence caught him off guard.

“Of course, was there any doubt?” He asked back. You shook your head no and smiled to yourself before frowning again.

“Can you hug me?” you asked him quietly. He hummed in confirmation before lifting the arm closest to you. Turning around and seeing his arm open for you, you leaned into his side. He squeezed you gently, giving you the pressure you needed in that moment. 

You sat together, Tech finding his own comfort from the stress of the past two days with you. He rubbed your arm with his thumb before finding a strand of your hair to twist in his fingers. Breaking the silence when he felt you were ready.

“Why did you not say you were overstimulated?”

You rubbed the flesh between your thumb and finger, “I… I don’t know. I was embarrassed. Everyone else seemed fine and I was- am frustrated that I’m not. It bothers me.”

He looked down at you quizzically, “Why would you be embarrassed? It is completely normal to have different needs. Even clones are different from each other, in one way or another. It is expected.” He told you.

“I know that but it doesn’t feel like the kind of ‘different’ that just makes someone unique I guess. I feel weak, but I know I need to be strong for everybody.”

Tech was quiet for a moment to figure out the right thing to say. He knows how you’re feeling. He’s felt the same way. He took in a deep breath before he spoke, “Being autistic does not make you weak. The way you receive and process information in your brain is different. It is okay to allow yourself time for it to do that. I promise, it is okay to have these needs. I have them too.”

“You do?”

“I do. While I do not have meltdowns often, I frequently have shutdowns. That does not make me a less efficient soldier. Genetically modifying me to be autistic was not an accident. There are desirable traits in autistic people. For example, I have exceptional attention to detail. I have a strong memory that allows me to retain important information. I am loyal. Of course there is more. But I do not wish to come across as egotistical.”

You sat there with Tech’s words. You never thought about the fact that, perhaps, nothing was wrong with you. Just different. You looked up, looking just past Tech’s eyes but flicking to them slightly before asking, “What is there that is good about me?”

He quirked his usual half-smile and looked up into the sky, “For starters, you are empathetic, more so than some. While I am sure this may be difficult for you at times, it allows you to be more compassionate. You are honest and direct, making your transition into our force easier as you are too honest to be distrusted. You are passionate and determined. No matter how many times you fall, you get up and try a new approach. You are not only passionate with things, but with people. You have spent much time learning what our crew members like and dislike, and act accordingly. You are deeply passionate in your relationships and I admire that about you. I could continue if you would like.”

You shook your head, cheeks slightly warm at the praise you asked for.

You found yourself leaning deeper into Tech and he welcomed you. You loved that you were able to find comfort in the exceptional clone beside you. It felt good not having to be alone, and being not only understood but accepted. His armor cooled you but his presence warmed you to your core.

“Thank you Tech I-...I think I’m ready to go now.” You told him shifting away slightly to prep yourself to get up. He nodded and stood, offering a hand to help you to your feet. You smiled up at him softly, feeling something in your soul sprouting in his light.

[freesia-writes]

Always and Forever: Tech x Reader

This was the first half of a request over on @spicy-clones (my NSFW side blog) and it was just so sweet (like, massively cheesy but insanely gratifying, I hope?) that I figured I'd share the SFW part here. 😊 To set the scene, Tech x Reader are growing older together on Pabu (not like old old, but like DILF old, ya know?) 😂 and Tech wanted to show the depth of his love for their years together. Gonna use this gorgeous divider by @snotbuggle ❤️ More dividers like this here.

Tech x Fem!Reader ~~ Word Count: 2k ish ~~ Absolute FLUFF

Waves crashed on the distant shore as you gazed at the horizon from the balcony of your Pabu home. You heard the door slide open behind you and turned to see Tech, handsome as ever in his advanced years. The two of you had had your ups and downs of course, but your diligent work to communicate well and seek to understand one another had led to a greater foundation of emotional intimacy and an ever-deepening friendship that continued to delight after all this time. He settled against the railing beside you, taking in the sights but mostly focused on you. His distinguished features had softened with age, but the intelligence in his eyes and the warmth in his smile were as sharp as the day you met. 

“If you have sufficient energy and ambition,” he began, “I would like to request some of your time tonight.”

“I don’t know,” you grinned. “Got a lot to do with work and volunteering and family and… Wait, just kidding.” His chuckle was more of a pity chuckle, the usual response to your cheesy humor, but there was an undeniable fondness to it. You’d both been free of work for a while now. “That sounds great. What did you have in mind?”

“Would you like to know, or would you like to take a calculated risk and enjoy a surprise?”

“Ooh, spicing it up, I see?” 

“I do have some ideas for an evening that is slightly outside of the norm that we have comfortably settled into.” His face had the slightest glint of mischief in it as well as a touch of desire that delighted you with tingles. You had never been a fan of surprises, but the two of you had built your lives together around a deep understanding of one another and desire to love and serve each other selflessly, so there was no risk involved whatsoever. He knew you like the back of his hand, and his brilliant ideas never failed to amaze.

“Which do you prefer?” you asked. He usually knew better than you did what the ideal approach would be.

“If you trust me with a surprise, I posit that it would be quite enjoyable.” 

“I trust you with my life.” 

“A responsibility that I do not take lightly, however these plans are not nearly as high-stakes.”

“That’s good,” you snickered. “Alright, game on. What’s the plan?”

“I would like you to join me for dinner in whatever attire you find most comfortable. No other preparations are necessary. Also, if it will aid in any mental preparation, the primary objective of tonight‘s endeavor is simply to illustrate the depth of my love and gratitude for you.

“That sounds incredible,” you said softly, reaching out to touch his arm. You stepped a little closer, cupping his cheek and gazing into his eyes with an adoration that had been built upon a million moments and conversations you had shared. “I love you so much.” 

“And I you, but we needn’t waste time on established facts at the moment.”

Your cheeks were curved in a smile the entire time you got ready.

The two of you strolled arm and arm through the winding streets of the island, turning into a residential district that you hadn’t spent much time in. Tech approached a square home at the end of the walkway, perched on the edge of the island facing the sunset. He gave a confident knock to the door, which revealed an unfamiliar face, and a few minutes later the two of you were seated at a small bistro table on a garden patio overlooking the water. Lush vines wove through trellises all around, and fragrant flowers joined the salty sea air to soothe the senses and provide a cool respite from the tropical weather.

“Is this someone’s house?” you asked, your curiosity getting the better of you. Tech smiled and nodded, taking a moment to glance around and inspect the setting. When no further explanation was offered, you nudged his foot with yours to bring his attention back to you, tilting your head and giving him an inquisitive look.

“Jobin is a private chef, and on very few evenings each year, he offers a carefully curated five course meal in the private, beautiful setting you are now enjoying. He combines the unique flavors of traditional island foods with some special ingredients procured from other planets. From what I have heard, it is a dining experience that is as memorable as it is refined.” 

“Oh,” you breathed, the sudden mist in your eyes surprising you. You’d always loved food, and while you were just as happy with a greasy slice of pizza, you got a special pleasure from tasting new combinations or pretending to be fancy at times. He’d truly outdone himself this time. “How long have you been planning this?”

“Two years and twenty-four days.” 

Now you were truly welling up, completely blown away by such thoughtfulness, and you quickly choked down the lump in your throat as a man approached your table. He introduced each course with polite enthusiasm as he shared its ingredients and flavors, and you could tell he had a sincere love for his craft that he couldn’t help but share with others. Somehow it made each bite even better, and you were blown away by the artistry of his culinary creations. And yet even that paled in comparison to the man sitting across from you. His pert comments about the complementary aspects of the textures, colors, scents, and tastes of each dish made your heart swell in your chest, and by the end, you couldn’t imagine being more satisfied. With repeated thanks and well wishes, he led you back to the stone streets, offering you his arm as he did every time you walked together. 

“Our next stop is a rooftop bungalow that is tastefully furnished with a variety of couches, pillows, blankets, and other comfortable items,” Tech began, and you jerked your head in surprise and confusion. He continued, unfazed. “I thought we could make passionate love beneath the evening sky.”

“What!” You stopped abruptly and burst out laughing, the sparkle in his eyes betraying his mischief. His own smile grew larger than he might have liked, he was so pleased with his little joke. 

“Kidding, of course. I know that intercourse in a public area is far from any preference of yours, considering the fact that having any light whatsoever is less than desirable.”

“Yeah, well… Things don’t look the way they used to,” you sighed, shaking your head fondly as you continued walking. It wasn’t an issue, just a simple understanding between the two of you, and he nodded in agreement.

“I have some thoughts about that, if you will indulge me.”

“Always.”

But he didn’t continue that train of thought, instead shifting the conversation to menial pleasantries as you strolled around town for a while. The meal was settling beautifully in your stomach, and the coolness of night was beginning to whisper through the streets on a gentle breeze. You hadn’t been paying attention to where you were walking, and he came to a halt again beside a beautiful tree that had sprouted up between a few houses. Its trunk was slim, its leaves soft, and it was clear that it hadn’t been around very long. It grew in graceful curves, reaching toward the sky with impossibly smooth branches, and Tech regarded it thoughtfully for a moment, allowing you to soak it in as well before speaking.

“This sapling is nearly mature, as evidenced by the increasing contrast in the pattern on the trunk as it nears the ground. It is attractive and virile, flexible and new. It may be pruned in any variety of shapes or intentions as it grows, but even now in its untrimmed juvenile state, it is appealing to the eye and worthy of admiration.”

“Yes…” you agreed, not quite sure where he was going with it. He guided you back to the street and continued in silence, taking a few intentional turns until he entered a courtyard in a much older part of town. A massive tree stood in the center, its trunk framed by rocks piled in a neat circle, yet its roots had escaped the tidy border and poked above ground in a few places around it. Tech stopped in front of it, releasing your arm from his and gesturing to various parts as he spoke again.

“This magnificent specimen is much older. Its bark is rough, with scars and blemishes from various traumas it has endured throughout its life, whether they be from natural causes or human interference. Its roots are not all where they ‘should’ be, by arbitrary landscaping standards. You may notice that it is crooked. Its branches would be more aptly described as ‘craggy’ as opposed to ‘graceful and slender’.”

“Are you calling me ‘craggy’?” you grinned, beginning to realize the metaphor he was painting. 

“Absolutely not, unless you find it arousing.”

“Oh my gosh,” you laughed. “I’ll pass on that one for now.”

“Noted.” 

Tech stepped closer and placed a hand against the rough bark of the tree’s trunk, then tilted his head to invite you to do the same. You’d always loved nature, and you could swear you could feel its life beneath your palm, a wisdom and sentience that you couldn't explain. His gaze moved slowly between the tree and you with equal warmth and admiration.

“This tree has had the honor of watching many events unfold. It has weathered storms of both wind and waves. Its canopy has grown so wide that it provides refreshing shade to those on the ground and nurturing respite to those in the air. In comparison to the sapling, it lacks the smooth texture and shapely structure of youth, and yet it is unrivaled in its majesty. Its roots reach deep into this ground, and it has grown effectively into the space allotted. One might say it was made to be here, but in reality, it has made itself to be formed perfectly to its home.”

You were getting choked up again, and it was only increased by the softness on his face as he stepped back from the tree and took your hands in his. He lightly brushed his thumbs across your knuckles, shifting closer to increase the air of intimacy. When he spoke, his voice was quiet and sincere, and his words reached your very soul. 

“You are no longer young. I am no longer young. And yet the life we have forged together is incomparable to the surface-level vanity of youth. Seasons may have shaken and scarred us, yet the marks that remain are not blemishes but testaments to our fortitude and commitment. Our roots have entwined, our branches nestled together, our canopies melded as one. Our exteriors may not look as they did in our prime, but the depth of what we share is incomparable. When I look at you, I see strength and dignity. I see wisdom and perseverance. I see steadfast love and unfailing kindness. My gratitude for these is as immeasurable as it is increased by the fact that I did not ever anticipate to have such a thing during my lifetime.”

“Tech…” you whispered, deeply moved and brimming with emotion. 

“Perhaps I am too long-winded,” he said, the ghost of a smile passing across his face before it returned to his earnest gaze into your eyes. “I understand the tendency to be critical of one’s appearance as it changes over the years, and I am also aware that verbose logic is often insufficient to address emotions and convictions. Yet I could not resist the opportunity to put into words the profundity of my love for you. You are as beautiful to me as the day we met, as the day we married, as the day we woke up and realized how much time had passed while we built our lives together. I hope the sentiment, or at least some of it, can be taken to heart.”

You couldn’t find any words, completely overwhelmed by the way his words washed over you with affirmation and joy. Fortunately, you didn’t have to – he slowly leaned in, brushing some hair back from your face, and gently rested his hand against your cheek and neck as he kissed you softly. 

If you'd like to continue on to the spicy part, you can find it here, and I'm gonna skip the tag list since I tagged y'all on @spicy-clones.

[missfrieden]

Tech as a father Chapter 81

So, as an info. I am bad at rewriting scripted things. And so it may look skipped and hurried in some places. But this is just because I cannot really bring myself to do it. Hope it still is enjoyable for all who still read!

Masterlist | AO3

Chapter 81: Sensitive baby

Tech kneels down beside Orion, his expression gentle yet firm as he tries to coax his son into wearing the winter coat. Orion pouts, his chubby cheeks flushed with frustration as he clutches his toy blaster tightly in his hand. "Come on, Orion," Tech says, his voice soothing as he reaches for the coat. "It's cold out there, and we need to keep you warm."

Orion shakes his head defiantly, his tiny lips forming a stubborn line as he holds onto his beloved toy. He doesn't understand the necessity of the coat, only that it's preventing him from playing with his blaster. Tech’s lips twitch, trying not to grin, as his son is looking very much like him right now. Tech sighs, feeling a pang of empathy for his son's resistance. He knows Orion doesn't like anything that restricts his movement, but the freezing temperatures on Kallar leave him with no choice.

"Orion, please," Tech urges gently, trying to pry the blaster from Orion's grasp so he can slip the coat on. "You can play with your blaster later. Right now, we need to keep you warm and safe." Orion's bottom lip trembles, his eyes brimming with unshed tears as he reluctantly releases the blaster. Tech quickly seizes the opportunity, deftly slipping the coat over Orion's arms and fastening it securely around his chest. "There we go," Tech says, his voice laced with relief as he adjusts the coat to ensure it fits snugly. "That's not so bad, is it?"

Orion sniffles, his mood still sullen as he adjusts to the feeling of the coat enveloping him. Tech offers him a reassuring smile, his heart swelling with love for his son. "You're doing great, Orion," Tech says, his voice tender as he brushes a stray lock of hair from Orion's forehead. "Now, let's get those mittens on, and we'll be ready to go."

With a bit more coaxing, Tech manages to get Orion's tiny hands into the mittens, securing them firmly to keep out the biting cold. Orion squirms and fidgets, clearly uncomfortable with the added layers, but Tech knows it's necessary to keep him safe in the harsh winter conditions. With Orion bundled up and ready to brave the cold, Tech scoops him up in his arms, holding him close as they prepare to embark on their mission to Kallar. Despite Orion's initial resistance, Tech can't help but feel a sense of pride in his son's resilience as they face the challenges of the snowy landscape together.

Tech carefully secures Orion in the carrier, his movements precise as he ensures that his son is snug and secure despite the additional layers of clothing. He adjusts the straps, making sure they're not too tight or too loose, and checks Orion's tiny armour to ensure it still fits comfortably under the winter coat. With meticulous care, Tech secures the earplugs in place, ensuring that Orion's sensitive ears are protected from the howling winds of Kallar. He double checks the seals on the armour, making sure there are no gaps where the cold air could sneak in. As he finishes the final adjustments, Tech attaches the toy blaster to his own chestplate with a sturdy string, positioning it within Orion's reach. He knows how much the toy means to his son, and he wants to ensure that Orion feels comfortable and secure even in the unfamiliar environment of Kallar.

Satisfied that everything is in order, Tech straightens up and surveys his handiwork. Orion squirms in the carrier, his curiosity piqued by the flurry of activity around him. Tech smiles down at his son, his heart swelling with pride at the sight of Orion's bright eyes and rosy cheeks. "All set, little trooper," Tech says, his voice soft but reassuring. "We're ready to face whatever challenges come our way."

With Orion nestled safely against his chest, Tech joins the rest of the squad as they prepare to depart for their mission on Kallar. Despite the freezing temperatures and treacherous terrain, Tech feels a sense of confidence knowing that he and Orion are prepared for whatever lies ahead. Together, they'll brave the elements and emerge victorious, just like they always do.

General Depa Billaba's words catch Tech's attention momentarily, and he glances up from his datapad to acknowledge her presence. Despite the exhaustion etched on his face, there's a flicker of pride in his eyes as he listens to her address.

"Thank you, General," Tech replies respectfully, his voice carrying a hint of weariness from the battle. "It's an honour to serve alongside you." He returns his focus to the datapad, his fingers flying across the keys as he sifts through the influx of information regarding the battle and its aftermath. The news of Grievous's defeat fills him with a mix of relief and apprehension, knowing that the end of the war may be within reach but also aware of the challenges that lie ahead in the aftermath. What will happen to him? His brothers? All of them scattered all over the galaxy?

As General Billaba continues to address the troops, Tech's mind races with calculations and strategic analyses, trying not to dwell on the unknown, his tactical expertise already formulating plans for the next steps in the mission. Despite the uncertainty of the future, he remains steadfast in his dedication to the Republic and its cause, ready to face whatever challenges may come their way.

As the transmission of Order 66 crackles through the systems, Tech's heart sinks, and his mind races to comprehend the sudden shift in orders. Confusion grips the squad as they exchange bewildered glances, trying to make sense of the cryptic message. And then Orion starts to scream and wail. His voice piercing his ears. Tech springs into action, his training kicking in as he instinctively moves to assess the situation and maintain order within the chaos. With Orion in his arms, he tries to shield the infant from the tension radiating around them, murmuring soothing words in an attempt to keep him calm.

"Stay calm, Orion," Tech whispers, his voice steady despite the turmoil raging within him. "Everything's going to be okay." Meanwhile, his mind races, analysing the implications of Order 66 and what it means for them. He quickly accesses his datapad, attempting to gather more information and understand the sudden shift in directives.

As the gravity of the situation begins to sink in, Tech's focus narrows to one goal: ensuring the safety of his squad and protecting Orion at all costs. With determination in his eyes, he braces himself for the challenges that lie ahead, ready to navigate the uncertain path that Order 66 has set before them.

Chapter 82

Reblogs are very welcome and I am open for feedback, as english is not my first language, so maybe my sentences may be weird sometimes, or I write a word wrong even with google, or I use a wrong word for an item.

Tag: @spectacular-skywalker @clonethirstingisreal @sleepycreativewriter @moonwreckd @sskim-milkk @heidnspeak

[zoeykallus]

This may or may not be a request but would Tech let the reader pilot the Maurader? Or you can turn it into a request :)

Aloha!

Hmm, let me try to unfold the scenario in my head...

Tech x Fem!Reader One-shot - The Teacher

Warnings: Mostly Fluff/Slightly Jelly Tech/Cheeky Crosshair

__________

Ko-Fi (If you feel like giving me some coffee)

__________

>Master List<

__________

You're sitting there with tons of data cards and sketches around you. You switch from data card to data card in your holopad, trying to absorb all the information. By now, you already have a headache. Tech has given you plenty of other stuff to learn about flying in general, besides memorizing the Marauder's manual. About fuel composition, about various gravity and zero gravity calculations, about statics and material composition and properties of every part used in the Marauder, including modifications Tech himself has made. Tech is standing in the middle of the room, you're so focused and stressed from all the learning material, you don't even realize he's there. "You look frustrated" You're so startled by his unexpected presence that you throw your holopad at him. With a "Woah," Tech just barely catches it. "Someone's tense," he says with raised eyebrows, handing you back your holopad. "Don't sneak up on me like that, please," you say, taking a deep breath. "I wasn't sneaking," Tech says quietly, "I even knocked, but you didn't respond." You look at him, frowning and critical. "I'm in a study rut. No normal person can memorize all that, especially not that fast" Tech asks deadpan, "So I'm not a normal person?"

You answer without hesitation, "Definitely not, no. You know that too." Tech blinks and shrugs, finally saying, "Okay you might have a point there" "That I'm supposed to learn the manual I understand, partially some of the other stuff too. But why learn all the other extra stuff?" Tech raises his famous explaining finger, pushes aside a couple of the data cards and sits down with you. "As a pilot, you should not only be able to fly, but you should be able to make repairs, in case of emergencies. You should be able to calculate how much your shuttle can take, what you use in energy, fuel and so on" You sigh in frustration, "Okay by me, but what's with these provisions and food calculations? Tech smiles unperturbed and says, "On long trips you often don't have a chance to stop in between. It's important to be adequately supplied for those periods of time." There are so many different things, so damn many numbers, dates, your head slowly spins and the frustration intensifies. "I'll never fly the Marauder, at least not as long as you decide that," you growl silently, dropping your holopad on your bed among all the data cards.

As you get up to leave, Tech grabs your wrist. "Wait," he says gently, "you know I'm not doing this to annoy you, right? Having you learn all these things is not punishment or sabotage, quite the opposite, Love." You turn around with a deep, tired sigh and look at him. He looks up at you, his expression all soft, with a shy little smile. He explains to you matter-of-factly, "These are all things meant to PROTECT you. Piloting a shuttle, no matter where or where to, is always a certain risk. I just want you to be prepared for anything and to be able to respond to any contingency in an emergency." You laugh tiredly and rub your eyes. "Tech, I just wanted to take a turn, not take your place as pilot completely". He gently pulls you back onto the bed by your wrist and pulls you into his long arms and says with amusement, "I'm surprised though how determined you were to immediately throw yourself over all that study material. I didn't expect you to actually do that. You really want to fly the Marauder someday, don't you?" You put your arms around his shoulders and move even closer. With a satisfied smile, you watch his ears turn red. It's a nice feeling to know that you still make him nervous in that special way. "Yes," you say softly and kiss his reddened earlobe.

Tech shivers softly, smiles shyly, and finally says, "Okay, one lap around the planet, with me as co-pilot, then we'll see."

"Easy on the thrusters, Love," Tech says a little nervously. You take some thrust away and ask, "Better?" He nods. "Better." Things are going well, better than you expected. Tech even lets you fly a few maneuvers, though only the easier ones. You notice he's a little tense in the copilot seat the whole time, but he's still surprisingly calm. His commands are gentle and patient, not snappy and nervous as you expected. You grin and say, "You're doing great, Tech." He raises his eyebrows and looks at you, you give him a quick glance and ask, "What is it?" "Wasn't I supposed to say that to you?" You laugh and reply, "Feel free to do so" "You're doing great, Love" "Better than expected?" you want to know. His eyes roam over the console, and he says, "So far the warning light has only flashed once, so yes, way better than expected" "Were you expecting a disaster?" you ask with a laugh. Tech shakes his head and explains, "No not exactly, but I taught Omega to fly, the warning light had blown the first time after her second hour of flying. She's not a bad pilot, but she's downright reckless." "More reckless than you?" you ask, surprised.

"In a way, yes, for a beginner at least. But I'm not reckless, I'd rather call it daring." You laugh and say, "I bet she tried to mimic your wildest maneuvers". Tech smirks as he replies, "Indeed she has". "I'm not surprised. She admires you," you say, smiling. Tech clearly feels pride, yet he says with a wink, "All younger siblings tend to emulate older siblings. Omega also copied everything Hunter did from the beginning. Then when Crosshair rejoined the team, she followed his heels and copied everything. Even chewing toothpicks." The thought is amusing. You know Crosshair well enough to know that he was certainly overwhelmed with it at first and grumbled constantly. "Did she try the 'tech turn' too?" Tech laughs nervously and says, "I've already told Omega that maneuver isn't called that even though I think it's quite flattering. Yes, she tried it and succeeded, much to my chagrin. After the first few hours of flying, I could barely walk straight when I left the Marauder. A roller coaster ride is nothing compared to that." You grin and say, "Maybe I should give the 'tech turn' a try". Tech's eyes get huge. "No, please don't do that. This is only your first practical flying lesson" You laugh and say, "My first lesson? You plan on giving me more of those?"

Tech smiles and says, "Sure. You are doing very well as I said. If you want, I'll give you regular lessons." You beam at him, "That would be great, Tech!" He smiles back in satisfaction. "Then maybe we should practice landing now, because we're running out of fuel. See, here's the display." You follow his finger pointing and nod. He's right, there's not much left in the tank.

The landing is smoother than expected, you are quite pleased with yourself and Tech seems to be too, because he smiles proudly at you. As soon as you open the ramp, you hear footsteps in the Marauder even before you leave the cockpit. Crosshair comes strutting in, a toothpick in his mouth as always. "So? How did our kitten do? How was the first flying lesson?" "Pretty good," you beam. Crosshair smiles back, barely noticeable. "She's got a name," Tech growls. The Sniper shrugs and ignores Tech again. "Saw your landing, not bad for a start". "Thanks. I have a very good instructor" you say cheerfully. Tech tightens up, stands up out of the pilot's seat, and proudly slides his goggles into place. You swing out of the pilot seat and say, "And now I really need to make love to my Instructor"

Tech says without thinking, "Exactly- wait, what? You mean your flight instructor, I hope?" Since Hunter is your hand-to-hand combat instructor, Wrecker is your weapons and explosives instructor, and Crosshair is your sniper rifle instructor, any number of troubling scenarios flash through Tech's mind for a moment. Crosshair allows himself a joke, clicks his tongue and says, "No, she means her sniper teacher, of course." You kick him in the shin, not hard, but firmly. Crosshair growls, "Ouch...still worth it." You gently grab Tech's hand and pull him with you. "What a question! You're the only one I make love to, Tech, you know that" you say laughing. Tech's ears and cheeks are flushed as he says, "I just wanted to make sure."

@rintheemolion

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[amorfista]

"Stargazing"

A little fanart for @freesia-writes and her amazing Tech and Vel fanfic ♥ which has me completely hooked!! They are so fricking cute together and this scene made me MEEEEELTTTTTT♥ couldn't help but sketch something up ♥ THANK YOU FOR BLESSING US FREE!!! ❤️‍🔥​

[littlemissmanga]

Home for the Holidays With You

Pairing: Tech x (gn) Reader

W/C: 2,335

Rating: E for Everyone. This is family (and Costco) friendly.

Warnings: Excessive fluff, Tech being a sweetheart taking ‘acts of service’ to an extreme, reader is dealing with homesickness at the holidays.

A/N: I wrote this as a secret Santa gift for @freesia-writes and her love of Tech inspired probably my fluffiest writing yet. Like, this is maximum fluff, guys. A little bit of whump, especially if you can relate to being homesick, but there is so much comfort here to offset it.

Just one note, I did change this to a GN Reader for tumblr. OG had she/her pronouns.

Dividers by @stars-n-spice :)

Omega’s excitement was like a sparkler. Small, bright bursts that one couldn’t resist smiling at.

Wrecker’s was closer to an explosion, as most things regarding his brother usually were: loud, bombastic, usually too much so to be contagious.

But your excitement was like a cup of caf, perfectly prepared and consumed at the optimal temperature. It was a warmth that seeped deep into his body and settled there, much as you already had in his heart.

He indulged in your presence whenever he could when you were like this. And the approaching holiday season seemed to bring out this flavor of excitement with consistency.

So, he’d chosen to spend his free time preparing with you — decorating to the soothing sounds of holiday music, shopping for and wrapping gifts (and pretending rather convincingly that he wasn’t curious about his own gifts you’d carefully hidden from him).

Tech researched the history of the holiday symbols, décor and music and shared them with you while you worked. You, in turn, regaled him with personal anecdotes of the same things, the two of you trading information as he, Wrecker, and Omega carefully followed your instructions to turn both the Batch’s home and your own into holiday wonderlands.

He blamed your warm excitement. Though even to himself, the word “blame” resonated with playful affection.

“I can’t wait to open these,” Omega chirped as she put the last of the gifts in the area you designated.

“Only one more week!” Your smile belied your pointed tone as you looked directly at Omega and Wrecker as the pair eyed the impressive pile. At least one of them had the decency to appear sheepish, and Tech was unsurprised that it was not his brother.

“I believe there’s more to Life Day than merely presents.”

“Exactly. Thank you, Tech,” you said, gifting him a smile and light touch on his shoulder as you passed by him to put away the last of the brightly colored wrapping flimsy.

“More?” Wrecker asked, excitement and confusion mixing in his tone and expression.

“Lots more,” you confirmed. “You open presents in the morning, sure. But then you get to spend the whole day with the people you care about most. Every family is different, but in mine, we play games, watch holos, and cook holiday treats together. And at the end of the day, you get to eat all that delicious food.”

“Oh! Now that does sound good! What kinda holiday treats d’ya make?”

While you regaled the others with rather detailed descriptions of your favorite holiday foods, Tech took a seat in the living room, pulling his data pad from his utility belt to once again struggle in finding a gift suitable for you.

None of the options so far had been acceptable. Most felt far too impersonal and underwhelming. Any that carried the intimacy he hoped to convey did not seem to suit your preferences as far as he knew them. And since he’d catalogued them, he’d say he knew them fairly well.

Tech knew if he voiced his frustrations to you, you’d laugh them off and tell him not to worry; that you’d love anything that came from him. And you would. Your ability to see past any errors on his part to see his intention underneath was one of the may things he loved about you.

But in this instance, that wasn’t enough. He wanted this gift to be perfect. As perfect as you made him feel. He could not — no, would not stand for his gift to be the only lackluster part of your holiday celebrations.

He was running out of time, however, and was beginning to grow rather anxious at the thought of not finding something in time.

Tech’s focus only lasted a few more moments, however, before his concentration was broken by Omega’s excited squeal.

“Those all sound amazing! And we get to try them!?”

“Oh, uh, not quite.” Your verbal stalling pulled Tech fully back into the conversation happening before him. “I’ve planned a few seasonal-to-Pabu snacks and a nice roast for dinner, but we don’t have access to a lot of the ingredients from my home planet. So we’ll make do with a Corellia-inspired, Pabu-provided holiday feast.”

The others continued the spirited conversation, but Tech was quick to notice a heaviness to you. It didn’t dim your smile or sharpen your words, but he could feel it all the same.

As the evening grew darker and slipped into night, Tech suggested Wrecker take Omega home. His thinly veiled excuse to be alone with you wasn’t questioned by anyone, least of all a tired Omega who yawned through her departure.

Once the silence had settled, you came to sit with him on the couch. He quickly turned off his data pad — not that I’ve found anything worth hiding yet, he thought bitterly — and you melted into his side, not quite cuddling but just letting yourself rest against him.

It was a position you had taken to, and he appreciated the concession that allowed him to keep his arms free while still remaining close to you. Tonight, however, he put his pad down and wrapped an arm around your shoulders, surrounding you with him.

“Now that the others are gone, will you tell me what inspired the melancholic air?”

The tilt of your head to press further into him pleased and concerned him in equal measure.

“Just … realizing what I’m missing, I guess. I mean, I knew when I enlisted in the GAR that I’d be away from home for the holidays. But I could always call, you know? Now that were on the run …”

The silence of your dropped sentence carried for a beat. Tech shifted so he could better see your face while you still rested on his torso.

“Now that we must conceal ourselves from the Empire, it’s too big a risk,” he finished for you.

“Yeah,” you sighed. “And it’s not like I didn’t know that before. We’ve been running for a while and next week is no different. Meg’s comment just made reality hit home.”

“That is understandable.” Tech paused, considering where to go from here. The most obvious solutions — visiting home, calling family, etc. — were all off the table. But leaving you as you were, clearly distressed and upset, was unacceptable. “What can I do?”

Your smile, though small, was genuine as you shook your head against his chest. “You’re sweet.”

“I am merely trying to resolve your current problem.”

“Yes, and that makes you very sweet,” you insisted. And frankly, with you tucked into his side like you were, he felt little of his usual compulsion to press his point. Still, for the rest of the evening, he struggled to himself with how to resolve your homesickness and prevent it from further tainting your beautiful spirit.

He had his list. He reviewed it multiple times to ensure he had not forgotten a single detail. And despite being certain he hadn’t, he still felt unnecessary adrenaline coursing through his body.

“Right! That’s the last of it!” Wrecker announced as he took the final side dish out of the oven. The small space was laden with delicacies, the recipes for which Tech ensured Wrecker and Omega had followed to the letter.

It all looked perfect to him. But — just this once — Tech would concede that his opinion did not matter. Only you could say whether he was successful or not.

The door to the Batch’s Pabu home opened, and Tech heard your voice carry from the entrance to the kitchen. “Hello?”

You were early. Kark.

Evidently, his anxiety was visible, as Wrecker laughed at him before Hunter stepped over to push him out of the kitchen. “Go. We got the rest.”

With little opportunity to do otherwise, Tech obliged. “Thank you. All of you,” he said, looking at his siblings in turn, trying to infuse his voice with sincerity before closing the door to the kitchen behind him as silently as possible.

“Hello, darling. Happy Life Day Eve.”

“Happy Life Day Eve.” You give him a quick kiss before looking around the empty living room. “Where is everyone?”

“They are finishing up some final preparations.”

Confusion colored your face. Understandable, considering you had been the leader of holiday prep … at least as far as you knew. But that was the entire point of a surprise, he supposed.

“Don’t worry, I’ve been supervising. We have a surprise for you.” Tech took your hand in his, giving it a small squeeze before leading you through the house to his room.

You give a small laugh, and he felt the knot in his stomach begin to loosen.

“Shouldn’t presents be saved for tomorrow?” You tease.

“I believe you’ll prefer enjoying this one tonight.”

Opening the door to his room, Tech led you inside to reveal a rather large — and if he permits, rather impressive — new comm station.

He watches your face closely as your eyebrows lift as you take in the sight.

“Wow, Tech! That’s really impressive! Did you build this yourself?”

“Naturally. However,” Tech pulled you further into the room to stand directly in front of the comm, “You cannot ascertain what’s special about this particular comm station by simply observing.”

“Oh?” Your crooked smile as you played along with him was possibly one of the most endearing expressions, and it reminded him to turn on his recording device. “Then please enlighten me. What is so special about it that it my surprise Life Day present?”

Instead of answering, Tech reclaims his hand to type in the frequency he’s come to memorize. He paused, looking up to you and smiling briefly before pressing the call button. “It’s encrypted.”

You tilted your head, eyes furrowed as you tried to make the connection. But before you could, a woman’s voice filtered through the comm.

“Hello? Tech? Can you hear me? Are they there yet?”

Instantly, Tech saw a multitude of emotions fly across your face faster than he could catalogue them as a tear slid down the sweet curve of your cheek. 

Most fortunate, then, that I remembered to begin recording.

Your voice cracked as you answered softly, “Mama?”

“Hi, honey! Oh, stars, it’s so good to hear your voice. Hold on, your father’s coming, too.”

Resting a hand lightly on your shoulder, Tech pressed a kiss to your cheek and whispered, “Take your time and come outside when you’re done.”

Your eyes were bright and wide, and Tech knew he could never catalogue the multitude or depth of your emotions in that moment. But what he did know was that look of melancholy had been well and truly banished. And that was all he needed.

Two hours later, you emerged with a wide smile painted on your face, despite the slight redness around your eyes.

“Tech,” you called softly, reaching out to take hold of him. He let you, falling into your embrace happily. “Thank you.”

“I am glad my plan was successful.”

“It really was.” You tightened your arms around him, and it was only slightly unpleasant. But Tech would have given you a pass even if you had Wrecker’s strength in this moment. “My brilliant genius. You have no idea what that meant to me.”

“Hm, I shall refrain from arguing for now. But that was only the first stage. Are you ready for stage two?”

Tech can feel his shirt dampen as tears soak the fabric even as you laugh.

“Part two? I don’t know. I can’t imagine topping part one.”

Keeping his arm around you, Tech turned you both to lead you to the kitchen, opening the door to reveal the rest of the Batch. In the time it took you to complete your call, his brothers and sister had plated and displayed the wide array of Corellian holiday dishes.

Admittedly, the smell was heavenly. Tech understood why the absence of this spread would be lamentable.

“What in the …” Your head swiveled between members of the Batch, mouth open in soundless surprise before Omega bounded forward, pointing to each dish and telling you how they followed your family’s instructions exactly. It was clear she was eager to hear your approval, perhaps more so than he had been.

“You and Wrecker made all of this?” You asked the young girl, pulling her into a hug when she finished.

“Yup! But it was all Tech’s idea! He got the comm station built and got the recipes from your family, told Phee and Echo where to get everything we didn’t have on Pabu, and he had Hunter distracting you all week so you wouldn’t notice anything!”

Your eyes narrowed at the Sergeant, earning a laugh from Echo. “So that’s why we’ve been re-cataloguing everything in the museum?”

“Sorry. It was the only thing I could think of that you’d believe,” Hunter said, hands raised in front of him as if to ward off your playful irritation.

“What do you think?” Tech asked, touching a hand lightly to your lower back to pull your attention to him. “Does part two satisfy?”

You bark a laugh before pressing into his side once again, sneaking your arm under his so it wraps around his waist, leaving no room between you before burying your head into his shoulder.

“This was… this…” He felt your deep, steadying breath and tightens his hold on you as he waits for you to collect your thoughts. “Yes, Tech. It beyond satisfies. I have never felt so loved.”

He reached forward, lifting your face to his so he can see your eyes. “But you are, darling. You are so very loved.”

And for a brief moment, Tech lost track of time. The shine of your eyes, fueled by love, awe, and just a few unshed tears, was all he needed. If this were the “meaning of the holidays,” then Tech finally understood why so many lifeforms craved the holiday season so.

“So, uh, can we eat? Or d’ya wanna keep starin’ at each other?”

Uncouth as ever, Wrecker’s question pulled you away from Tech with a laugh, though you never let go of his hand. “Yeah, let’s eat.”

Note about my taglist: My google account storage is so full that I can't update and export my sign up sheet, so if you signed up for my taglist and I did not tag you I am so sorry! It is a technical error and one that I am working on fixing!

Taglist: @dreamie411, @wings-and-beskar, @starrylothcat, @sev-on-kamino, @wolffegirlsunite, @secondaryrealm, @idontgetanysleep, @multi-fan-dom-madness, @dystopicjumpsuit, @sinfulsalutations, @sunshinesdaydream, @clonemedickix, @wizardofrozz, @anxiouspineapple99, @mythical-illustrator, @dhawerdaverd

Masterlist

[court-jesterr]

Lovestruck

Pairing: Tech x Fem!Reader Requested by: @baddest-batchers Warnings: Massive fluff, I think I actually cried writing this?, I've not been handling the season finale well because I miss Tech a considerable amount, pining for reader from Tech's perspective, a lot of adorable emotions from our usually pragmatic boy Word Count: 2K Summary: While fixing the Marauder with you, Tech reflects on his feelings and he's completely enamored by you. A/N: I'm not handling Tech's death well. Whether it's his death or his just being CX-2, I don't really care, I miss him so desperately and this fic healed so many parts of my heart even though I actually wept while writing. I love that you requested this, friend! I hope it's exactly what you were looking for (or at least close!) and I absolutely agree, this was indeed a Tech prompt. All of these requests have been so wonderful and I cannot express how much it means that people like my writing enough to send in requests! Thanks guys!

Requests are open if you have anything you'd like to send in!

__________________________________________

It was an ordinary affair for you and Tech to work on the repairs for the Marauder simultaneously. There were consistent restorations that needed to be made and things to be updated, so having another experienced individual helped jog said matters along. Though the clone was hesitant at first, after months of rapport building, he was grateful.

Not only was he finding himself appreciative for the extra set of hands, but Tech discovered that he was quite enjoying your company. You were clever, agreeable, and understanding, along with that you seemed to always find his endless wealth of knowledge pleasant. The accurate way you managed the repairs of his ship, first by managing his hesitancy well and then demonstrating consideration for his methods before ever handling something he cared so much about, really surprised him. Your approach to his usually off-putting demeanor was a welcomed change in his life and the way you subtly encouraged him appeared to warm his heart in a way he hadn't previously encountered.

He'd found that his eyes lingered on you from afar longer than he realized, only noticing that he'd been staring when you'd look over and smile at him sweetly. The light in your eyes, whenever you'd smile at him, twinkled so effortlessly, almost as if there had been stars placed directly behind them solely to enchant him.

It was as if you were another creature entirely, one he'd never analyzed, one he knew nothing about- because everything you did fascinated him. All the ways in which you carried yourself, laughed with his brothers, tended to Omega, your wit, the charm you retained...it all was remarkable to him. He began to notice himself craving your attention. Tech dreamed of you laughing for him, smiling at him, every moment he was awake you invaded his thoughts.

So to have you crouched down beneath the hull of the Marauder, handing him parts and tools for repairs made him impossibly delighted. This was a life he could get used to, for a long time. The ability to bond with you- and only you- in this way for the rest of his short life, he would fight for it, no matter the threat. If this was what life could be for him after he and his brothers no longer needed to fight, he would be far and beyond content. He'd feel whole.

"The spanner now, please," Tech's smooth tone echoed back to him from off the metal hull.

Taking a moment to grab the tool, you placed it squarely in his hand, "Of course." Your voice was sweet as ever to his ears, the sensation of your fingers grazing his gloved palm sending tides of bliss to his heart. How he desired to remove his gloves to truly discern how your hand might feel in his. Odd thought, he knew, though nevertheless one he often had run through his mind. Other equivalent ones situated themselves among his standard reflections; such as how your cheeks might feel cradled in his palm, or how your eyes might sparkle even more at his displays of affection toward you.

These introspective ideas were not ones he had been programmed with, he understood that very well, but then again wasn't that the whole point of him and his brothers? They weren't droids. Even with protocol and planned executions, wasn't the beautiful part of having your own identity the potential for...emotion? Sentiments?

Love?

The brilliant clone pondered these notions for many hours during hyperspace travels, staring endlessly into the streaking atmosphere while everyone else lay in their bunks asleep. Upon his further analysis and pensive state, he conceded that he did, indeed, love you. Even though he expected it to never be possible, for him anyhow, it clearly was. And there it was, staring up at him with stunning eyes and an adorable smile- all wrapped up in one woman who waited for further instruction to aid his work.

"Whatcha smiling at, silly?" A giggle brought him out of his reverie and he cleared his throat, handing the spanner back to you while muttering a quick 'my apologies'. "It's no big deal, you know I don't mind," another soft chuckle at his sudden behavior change. "Just curious what has you in such a good mood lately. You never smile this much- not that I'm complaining, of course. You look happy and I like that, it suits you." The smile he watched spread across your lips brightened your eyes so preciously that Tech felt as if his heart were going to lock up. You were absolutely breathtaking in the setting sunlight, the warm glow radiating your beauty.

It wasn't too long after your comment that he acknowledged he'd been staring once again. Tech blinked a few times, regaining his composure- sure to remember the planet's rotation cycle so he could bring you out into the setting sun one more time before leaving so he could truly memorize the way you looked in such a spectacular site. "I suppose it would be an alarming circumstance to see my sudden change in attitude if you are accustomed to my rather pragmatic and steadfast manner." He spoke slowly, trying to gauge his words carefully, looking back up at the repairs he was currently working on.

To say he was usually practical was an understatement and even he knew that, but he continued nevertheless- "Screwdriver, please."

A quick hum in reply from you and the tool was now in his hand, his heart buzzing at your lingering touch, making certain he had hold of the screwdriver before pulling away. "Though," Tech found himself speaking before he realized, hesitating after the word left his mouth.

Should he continue? Would you be uneasy at any admission of his affection, or even just simple favor, toward you?

He found himself suddenly apprehensive at the possibility that he could ruin the favorable conditions he'd found for himself with you. But with your reassuring voice, you spoke his worrying thoughts away, "though, what? Got too many thoughts running around that extraordinary mind of yours to just pick one?" The pleasantness in your prodding had a warm smile of his own spreading across his lips now while he worked against a stubborn bolt.

"Only a few at this very moment, so it would appear, mesh'la." Tech's reply was soft, soft enough that he thought only he'd heard himself until you stood beside him now. He glanced to see your head tilted with ever lovely, inquisitive eyes prompting him to continue his outspoken thought. Realigning his eyes to the bolt, Tech licked his lips anxiously, "Ah, I must have spoken aloud without realizing." He clarified softly, a burning sensation rising to his cheeks.

"Well now you gotta continue," you teased with a smile, "It's not every day that your genius mind only has a few thoughts in it to speak of."

Tech knew he was skating near a precarious edge, but the more you gazed at him expectantly, the less he cared and only desired for you to continue your total obliteration of his typical sensible behaviors. Taking a deep breath, the enhanced clone steadied himself before expressing, "At present, I have found that my foremost thoughts are exclusively about you. During the maturing of our relationship these last few months, it would seem that less and less of my thoughts are as constructive as they had been prior to our closeness, as troubling as that may sound." At your silence, Tech chanced lowering his arms to stand before you unimpeded by work, attention entirely yours.

The rise of your brows and the slight part in your lips made his heart thud painfully against his chest. Though, he noticed the sparkle in your eyes hadn't dissipated, perhaps he wasn't ruining anything as he thought he had been. "I am mindful that it may come across as peculiar, or eccentric, for me to have said that," Tech began cautiously, calculating your evolving expression. "Nevertheless, it is the truth. I...find you to be the most compelling woman that I have personally had the fortune of knowing. You are quite literally the only part of my life that I find myself frequently enchanted by." As he spoke, Tech found it easier to alleviate himself of the mountain of praises he'd been repeatedly considering when in your presence. He discovered he could continue voicing your worth, just as he could gaze at your beautiful face for an indefinable amount of time if only you'd allow him.

In the face of your silence, Tech cleared his throat once again to calm himself of his growing concern. "Though I'm aware of my capacity to express thoughts without stopping, I must say that your added input on this matter would prevent the inclination of my elevating heart rate."

"Tech..." The way his name left your lips did the contrary of what he had just requested, scrambling his heart rate instead. Tenderness touched the curve of your lips as you stepped forward close to him, directly into the space he usually reserved for only himself until he saw how much more exquisite you were when he had the opportunity to look down at you. This close he could see every mark, every small scar, the way the color of your eyes shifted as they glanced back and forth around his face.

"Stars," he breathed, "you are the most beautiful thing I have ever seen, mesh'la..." Tech muttered to himself in wonderment. As if no barrier had ever existed between you, Tech reached out to caress your face, marveling at how you reacted by pressing your cheek further into his touch. "If you were to provide me the honor of showing you my devotion, I would be certain to surpass any expectations you may put forth." Spellbound by the intimacy he'd found himself in with you, Tech longed for more. He yearned to feel the softness of your cheek on his skin, not through his filthy gloves. The way you deserved to be admired was wholly and profoundly, without any impediments. As his eyes danced between yours and the way your smile began to fade, Tech brushed his thumb along your cheek, cursing his GAR regulation blacks. You'd hardly said a word other than the sweet whisper of his name before you approached him, and even if this instance was all he'd ever receive from you, he'd relive the memory a hundred times over. Though he worried he'd said too much again.

Or maybe you were as entranced as he was, presently. "My dear, I don't mean to ruin this moment, however, I-" and before he could finish speaking you'd surged upward toward him, pressing your lips against his.

Astonishment rushed through the normally sharp clone as he felt the weight of your body pressed against his chest plate. After only a moment, though, Tech reacted- refusing to squander his opportunity to kiss you as he had dreamt many times over.

Wrapping his arms around your smaller figure, one hand came to rest between your shoulders and the other cradled your head affectionately, holding you as close as he could possibly have you. The plush of your lips brushed so flawlessly against his as he admired the softness they possessed. Tech knew upon impact that he would never tire of this, of the ability to hold you as he was, nor his newfound gift to kiss you.

You pulled away all too soon for his liking, the sigh escaping his lips sounding as pathetic to him as he was sure it sounded to you. Your smile was even more gorgeous than he'd seen it yet, though he was sure it was due to the recent discovery of just how incredible your smile tasted against his lips. Tech debated whether he should move at all for fear of you slipping away even sooner, but relented to adjust his goggles, matching your smile. "I believe that is a sufficient response to my yet posed question."

With yet another unpredictable act, you cuddled closer into his space, folding your arms in between your chest and his, and tucked your face into his neck. "I'll be happy to answer any others you may have with the same reply, whenever you need, handsome." You replied with a soft laugh.

Encompassing you once again within his embrace, Tech felt his cheeks warming, noting how the sun had disappeared beneath the horizon and he knew couldn't blame that for his reddened face. His breathy chuckle rumbled against his chest plate, "I shall keep that at the forefront of my thoughts."

[dystopicjumpsuit]

For the cuddle prompts.. possibly #29 with Tech? 🥹🧡

A/N: Hi, @xentari94! Thanks for the request! I hope I’ve captured the cozy, fluffy vibes for you! The prompt is #29: putting ear over their heart.

Pairing: Tech x Reader (GN)

Rating: T (but as always, minors DNI)

Wordcount: 384

Warnings and tags: fluff, cuddles, implied sensuality

Summary: You enjoy a rare moment of privacy with Tech.

Suggested Listening:

Masterlist | Sign up for my tag list

At night I dream that you and I are two plants that grew together, roots entwined, and that you know the earth and the rain like my mouth, since we are made of earth and rain. -Pablo Neruda, “Rain (Rapa Nui)”

On the infrequent occasions when it rained in Ord Mantell City, the water fell in a deafening torrent. Those unlucky enough to be caught in one of the city’s abrupt and violent storms would quickly find themselves soaked to the skin by the stinging, furious downpour. Locals knew to stay indoors during these deluges, while any hapless visitors learned a hard, fast lesson.

Inside the Marauder, though, it was safe, and warm, and dry. The ship was in low-power mode, illuminated only by a few glowing control panels and the dim light filtering through the sheets of water that coursed down the viewports. You curled on the cramped, narrow bunk, your head on Tech’s chest and his long legs entwined with yours as you listened to the insistent hammering of raindrops on the durasteel hull of the ship. The steady, rhythmic beat of his heart thrummed beneath your ear, and as you rested your hand on his shoulder, your finger tapped softly in time with his pulse.

He traced his fingertips lazily down the bare skin of your arm until he reached your hand, gently enfolding it in the warmth of his own as he pressed his lips to the top of your head. You savored every nanosecond of the rare and treasured privacy the storm had afforded you, alone in the ship while the rest of the Batch were tucked away in Cid’s dingy parlor, waiting for the rain to end.

Your head rose and fell subtly with each breath of his lungs, the soft warmth of each exhale drifting across your skin. The tension drained from your body as you relaxed into him, and you struggled to resist the inevitable, seductive allure of sleep.

“We should probably get dressed before the others come back,” you whispered.

“We should,” he replied in a soft tone. “But by my calculations, the storm will likely persist for at least two more hours.”

You laughed quietly. “Your calculations? Is that why you ‘urgently required my assistance with repairs’ this morning?”

“I thought it was obvious.”

---

Want to request a ficlet? Check out this list of prompts!

More Tech cuddles here! More Bad Batch fics: Hunter fluff; Hunter spice; Crosshair hurt comfort; Crosshair fluff

Taglist:

@secondaryrealm @sev-on-kamino @523rdrebel @wings-and-beskar @merkitty49

@anxiouspineapple99 @sinfulsalutations @arcsimper5 @starrylothcat @clio3kantarella

@cloneloverrrrr @goblininawig @ladytano420 @arctrooper69 @sunshinesdaydream

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@totallyunidentified @eclec-tech @euphoriacafe @hipwell @yve-barr

@dangraccoon

[cc--2224]

Comfort

Pairing: Tech x Reader

Summary: You planned the perfect Life Day trip for yourself and Tech, positive that everything will go perfectly. When it doesn't, Tech is able to cheer you up and comfort you.

Warnings: Perhaps a touch of angst but it's generally all fluff

Notes: This was written for the Life Day Fic exchange @cloneficgiftexchange for @clone-anon HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!

Prompts: I tried to use them all as best as I could but as requested - first life day together || stuck in a storm and forehead kisses || "wait, please don't go" || one bed trope next morning with "is it weird I'm comfortable"

Word Count: ~1.9k

Read on AO3 Here

Taglist: None, let me know if you'd like to be added!

Masterlist

You always loved to celebrate the holidays with your friends and loved ones and knowing that this would be your first Life Day with Tech made you even more excited. You had a tendency to go a little overboard with preparations, but one of the first things Tech noticed about you was how much fun you had making plans; whether it was briefing before a mission, or even something as small as going to the best markets for supplies and rations. He began to love how much thought you’d put into everything you did.

But when you approached him about spending the holidays together, he was a little apprehensive. He and his brothers had never done anything for Life Day, it wasn't something the Kaminoans ever observed, and during the war it was the last thing on anyone’s mind, so he wasn't sure exactly what he was supposed to do. He relaxed when you had told him that you would handle everything, and eventually agreed.

The first thing you decided on was renting out a small cabin. You decided on a room with two beds, making sure there would be plenty of room for both of you to be comfortable. You hadn't been together very long, there was the occasional hug or kiss on the cheek, but you hadn't quite been able to broach the topic of cuddling with a man who was very protective over his space, so for a first Life Day, this was a better option.

The activities were next. You always loved spending the day before Life Day venturing out and looking at the decorations people had. Festive string lights, standees or statues of Wookiees in red robes, holiday candies, you loved when people went all out, and you always enjoyed being able to share that with the people you love. Even if it was cold, snow was always welcome, a gentle snowfall always made this time extra special. And then when you'd get home after seeing all the beautiful decorations, you'd always put on a holofilm to enjoy with your loved ones as a relaxing way to end the day.

You also made sure that, while it wasn't necessary, you had a gift for Tech. It was difficult to shop for him, but you knew it was worth it. The market stalls you visited didn't seem to have much that really stood out, not for Tech anyway. You wanted his gift to be special. He seemed like the type of person who, if you were to ask what to get him, he would list things he needed to make repairs to the Marauder, and while you'd happily buy them for him if that's what he truly wanted, it didn't seem like a good enough gift. He deserved something to use for himself rather than to use to work on the ship. You had soon passed by a shop with some newer devices, including a datapad that had just become commercially available. You knew Tech had always been fiddling with his, and you'd heard him complain about it more than once, so in your indecision of what to get him, you decided to at least start there. It seemed easier to buy something for the others than it was for Tech; a Loth cat stuffy for Wrecker, a new knife for Hunter, and a seemingly endless box of toothpicks for Crosshair.

But, with all of that out of the way, you could really focus on finalizing your plans for your time with Tech, and when Life Day finally rolled around, you felt completely prepared for it, and your excitement was palpable. Even Tech seemed excited, though you weren't sure how much of it was excitement rather than curiosity.

The morning of your reservation at the cabin, the others dropped you and Tech off, sending you with their best wishes and reminding you to comm them when you wanted to be picked up.

Before you left the ship, Hunter pulled you aside. "Something seems off today. It feels like a storm's coming. I hope it doesn't mess up your plans, but... just be careful, and comm us when you want us to come get you."

You tried not to take his warning to heart, you knew he was probably right, but you didn't want to think about anything getting in the way of your plans. With a quick nod and reassuring smile, you left the Marauder with Tech following behind you.

Hunter's warning was only the first of your problems. The second was the cabin itself.

It was a beautiful location, and when you opened the door, it seemed welcoming and comfortable, but perhaps a little too cozy.

Heat flooded your cheeks as you noticed the lack of a second bed, and panic began setting in at the thought of making Tech uncomfortable.

"I swear, I requested two beds! I even double checked when they confirmed it I-"

Tech shrugged. "It must have been a mistake on their part. Or perhaps, they had assumed any couple reserving a place to stay would only want one bed."

"I promise I will fix this, I'm so sorry." You couldn't begin to express your embarrassment. Tech didn't seem to notice, he just walked in and set his bags down before exploring the rest of the cabin.

He turned back to you, "I really do not mind, it is likely a busy time for them. You don't have to apologize."

He offered you a small smile before walking back toward you.

You returned the smile, but you began to feel crushed that your plans had already begun to fall apart.

Tech had never been great at recognizing your emotions, or his own for that matter, but this once he could see that you were genuinely upset. He wrapped his arms around you and pulled you close to his chest.

“It is okay, Mesh’la, I promise.”

You sighed against his chest and returned the hug, feeling as though your worries were melting away from you, when you suddenly remembered that you had bought a present for him.

He looked down at you when he heard you gasp, and you grinned and ran to your bag to pull out a box wrapped to near perfection in bright paper.

“What is this?” He asked when you held the box out to him.

“Your present!”

His smile faded, “Present? But I... I did not get anything for you in return.”

“That’s not important, you’re here, and that’s all I wanted. Now open it!” Your last statement, as demanding as it sounded, pulled his smile back as he meticulously fiddled with the paper, trying not to tear it.

You watched on in amusement, incredibly aware that this was likely the first Life Day present he’d ever received, just by the way he was pulling at the paper. When he finally freed the box from its wrapping, he opened it and peered inside briefly before pulling the datapad out.

“Well...?” You asked. “Is it okay?”

He examined the datapad closely, his expression unreadable. You could feel your anxiety slowly starting to return when he finally spoke.

“It will need to be re-programmed to be compatible with my equipment and the Marauder, however, this is a wonderful present. Re-programming it will be no trouble at all.”

You breathed out a sigh, “I’m glad. You’re remarkably difficult to shop for, I hope you know that.”

He smiled slightly, “You did not need to get me anything at all, just to spend this time with you is satisfactory. May I ask what else you have planned?”

“Well, one thing that I always liked to do with my family was to go out and look at the decorations, so maybe while the weather is still nice, we could--” You cut yourself off as you turned toward the window. You could hardly see to the end of the lane through all the snow, whatever it was like when you arrived only a short time ago had done a complete 180. The winds had nearly blown over the trees outside, and the sky seemed to have turned completely white with snow.

“I suppose this means we will stay indoors.” Tech suggested.

The disappointment you had felt when you arrived crept back into your chest. Nearly everything you had planned fell apart. Hunter had warned you that a storm was coming, but you tried not to believe him. You felt Tech’s arm drape around your shoulders, and you leaned into him.

“I’m sorry...” You mumbled, still looking out the window.

“You needn’t apologize, nothing that has happened has been your fault.”

You didn’t say anything back, instead you began to walk away, not wanting to look at the blizzard outside, and not wanting to wait around to see if Tech was disappointed. Before you could leave the room, you felt him grab your hand.

“Wait, please don’t go.”

“I just... I wanted this to be perfect, and now almost everything I planned has fallen through.” You looked down, disappointed. “I’ll just comm Hunter and ask him to pick us up.”

Tech pulled you toward him once more with your back against his chest, resting his head atop yours. “We do not need to leave yet. I am not the best person to speak on this matter, but not every single one of our plans needs to be perfect. You put the effort into making this a good experience, and I for one am just happy to be spending the time with you.” When you didn’t answer him, he turned you to face him, and he gently kissed your forehead. “I assure you; I am perfectly content to just be here right now.”

“Thank you, Tech...” You finally replied. “I’m sorry for getting upset.”

“You have nothing to apologize for” He reminded you once more. “Now, seeing as how we are snowed into this cabin, perhaps we can find a holofilm to watch and we can just relax for now.”

You nodded and nestled into his chest. “That sounds wonderful.”

Tech picked up the datapad he had just received and began finding something to watch as you made yourself comfortable on the bed, still making sure that there would be plenty of room between you. When he finally joined you, he looked at you expectantly, then lifted his arm as an invitation for you to come closer to him.

“Are you sure?” You asked, not wanting to make him uncomfortable.

“Just come here.” He answered with a smile.

You scooted over to him and leaned into his chest, feeling his arm drape over your shoulders again. His warmth and the steadiness of his breath instantly comforted you. The film played, projected at the end of the bed, and before you knew it, you felt yourself drifting off to sleep.

The next morning, you opened your eyes, not even aware you had fallen asleep.

“Happy Life Day.” You heard from beside you. Tech’s goggles were off, and his tone sounded as though he had just woken up as well. His arms were still around you and he kissed you on the forehead again. When you tried to get up, his arms tightened around you.

“Let’s just lie in for a little longer. Perhaps it’s strange, but I am quite comfortable.”

While your trip had started out a little rockier than you anticipated, it had ended perfectly. Without asking, Tech had become almost a beacon of comfort to you, and all you could think about was how much you were looking forward to spending future holidays with him – only this time ensuring you had back-up plans.

[jordosprout]

Tumbling Walls

Tech X GN!Reader

Word Count: 3,964

Warnings: Nightmares, Trauma comfort, Anxiety attack, Mentions of childhood SA, Accidental SH, Tech and Reader are awkward, No established relationship, Barely any actual romance (tell me if there is anything I missed! I am very new to Tumblr :,) this is a pretty self-indulgent fic as I looked for one similar but couldn't find anything. I might make a follow up for it later on. I am open to taking writing prompts for the Bad Batch!!

Let's begin, shall we?

It felt like you couldn’t have woken up any faster, sitting up as soon as you did. Your forehead was covered in cold sweat. Your heavy breaths echoed throughout the bunks as your eyes darted around the quiet bunks, finally remembering where you were. A shaky exhale came from your lips as you crashed back into your pillow. You might as well not have slept at all you were so tired.

Your alarm comedically went off a minute later. You laughed annoyedly to yourself with your forearm over your eyes. The rest of the batch was (thankfully) probably already awake. That was typically the case. They all knew of your usual late nights and knew not to wake you unless there was an emergency, Wrecker being the one to find out the hard way.

You mentally prepared yourself for your day as you sat at the edge of your bunk, before begrudgingly jumping down. You were dressed minutes later before you went to the door to the barracks, swooshing it open; Crosshair was the first to greet you.

“You look like shit.”

You rubbed one of your eyes, even though you knew it would just make the bags underneath them worse. Crosshair’s remarks were the last thing you wanted to hear right now. You could only bring yourself to flip him off as you poured yourself a cup of now cold caff.

—

You couldn’t seem to catch a break at all today. Every little thing felt like weights being added to your shoulders. Crosshair’s comments were hitting closer to home and you weren’t able to respond with your usual bite. Wrecker’s booming voice felt like it raddled your skull more than usual. His energetic and rough nature along with that did not pair well with your high-strung mood. Omega’s questions were getting to be headache-inducing, and while usually you would answer every single one without hesitation you found yourself getting frustrated. You hate getting annoyed with her. She has every reason to have the questions she does about the universe. But today you wish she would just ask Tech instead.

You fidgeted in your seat with anything you could find. First, it was picking and scratching at your hands, then biting your nails, your body acted on its own as you found yourself lost in your thoughts. 

You were pushed out of your spacey state when an excited Omega jumped on the back of the co-pilot seat, almost knocking you off. Shaking you up as a result.

“KRIFF- Omega can you not do that? You scared me.” you rubbed one of your eyes with your palm before turning to her. She was a bit taken aback, not used to you being snippy. But she didn’t let your roughness get to her like hers did to you.

“Oh- sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you! I just wanted to let you know that Wrecker, Crosshair, Hunter, and I were about to head off.”

You cocked your head at this. You weren’t aware of any missions for today and Hunter usually briefed the Batch on all of the day's plans.

“What do you mean by head off? Do you lot even know where you’re going? We haven’t exactly been on this planet before.”

She smiled excitedly at that, the idea of exploring making her almost bounce off the walls.

“We’re just running low on supplies. Hunter says there should be a town where we can restock but we probably won’t be back tonight.”

You simply nodded in response. Your throat felt too tight to talk today. Not a rare occurrence for you, there have been times when you wouldn’t say a word for hours. And that’s exactly what it was like today, the only difference being that it wasn’t clear to everyone else as to why like it usually was. 

It’s not that you were always quiet; sometimes words just didn’t seem to be able to form themselves. Or that they were stuck in a lump deep inside your throat. But when your stress levels were low you always spoke what was on your mind. 

Once Omega figured you had nothing to add she bounced off the ship to the others. You saw Hunter look up to you before saying something to Tech. He probably noticed your off-attitude, especially since you're rarely tense to this extent, seemingly for no reason. All you caught before they left was a responsive nod from Tech and a wave from Wrecker, who had a giddy Omega on his shoulders. 

_

“Tech, keep a close eye on em’ yeah? They seem off today.” 

Tech hummed at his brother, adjusting his goggles slightly before nodding and offering a response,

“I have noticed. I have it covered here.”

“Alright, good luck. We won't be back until sundown tomorrow,” Hunter told Tech with a sigh dreading the long trip.

Wrecker and Omega gave you a wave from outside before they all left, leaving Tech and you behind.

_

Since you joined the batch, Tech and you would usually stay at the ship. That way he’d have backup if needed. Even if all that meant was listening to all the facts he had accumulated.

Once everyone left Tech turned around and motioned for you to come over. Groaning as you stood up from your spot. But, obliging nonetheless. You leaned on the entryway of the Marauder before questioning his request, “Ya need somethin’ Tech?”

He nodded, goggles catching the reflection of the sun “Actually, I was thinking about your request from a few rotations ago. About teaching you basic ship repairs. It looks like it could use some work. And it would be best to teach you now, seeing as there will be no distractions,” he told you matter-of-factly. It was honestly quite surprising he took you up on your request seeing how protective he was of ‘his ship’. “And you’ve been inside all day now. That will not do your current mental state any good.”

“What are you talking about? I’m fine, Tech.”

He simply hummed at you, ignoring your obvious lie of a response for the most part. “The exterior hull took some damage from our last mission, and the hyperdrive motivator is not in the best shape either. It will not be too difficult of a repair, though it is an important one for you to learn.”

You gave him a quick alright and walked over to him, taking your place on his left.

_

You whined in frustration and threw your tool to the ground. You couldn’t seem to get the hang of it and it was maddening. You sat before easing yourself into laying down with your arms crossed; a curious Tech granting you shade as he stood above you.

“You are… quite reactive today,” he told you, stating the obvious like always.

You rolled your eyes at him, “I don’t know what you're talking about Tech. Perhaps you don’t either.” Just because it was obvious did not mean it needed to be discussed. Hopefully, you made that clear.

“I always know what I am talking about.”

Or perhaps not.

“Uh-huh.”

His armor shuffled as he sat next to you. 

“It is clear that there is something on your mind. You are not one to be quick to anger.”

Turning your head to face him, he was clearly in thought himself as he looked out towards the body of water in front of you. You sighed before grumbling, “You’re right. sorry.”

He shook his head, “While it is not good to keep emotions bottled up, it is a common response. Do not apologize.” He flicked his eyes towards you momentarily, “...Though, if you are willing, I do not mind lending an ear.”

You have had many conversations with Tech during your time with the Batch, but none this personal. Typically it was just you asking him different questions about how things worked or him telling you without your prior inquiry. You weren’t too keen on the idea of it, you trusted Tech, of course you did. You trusted all of them. But you… held yourself to a high standard. Especially when it came to the clone next to you. 

“It will not change how I view you.” He assured, basically reading your mind.

You turned your head away from him before starting, “It’s silly Tech, I’m just in my head today. A dream I had brought up… unpleasant memories. And it’s all I can bring myself to think about,” his eyes felt like they were burning holes in the back of your head as you spoke, “But I am not going to rant your ear off about it. You’re not my therapist.”

“As far as I am aware, no one is your therapist. However, that is not what I am trying to be. I am simply concerned for your well-being.”

“You have no reason to be concerned,” you told him bluntly. You did not like the idea of taking up someone's time with your feelings. Especially when it came to things you feel you should have moved on from.

“Oh, but I certainly do. To start, I'm certain you've not eaten your rations today. In addition to that, you have remained isolated from 1000 to 1400. And that isolation only stopped when I asked for your time. You have been tense and highly reactive all day. Whatever it is that is on your mind, it is making you anxious. Your lack of focus on any tasks given proves that your thoughts are preoccupied. Stop downplaying your current state and talk to me,” Tech almost sounded like he was begging you, a rare tone to come from him.

You sat up at that and looked at him for a moment, pulling your knees towards you and holding onto them; playing with your hands.

“It’s kind of heavy stuff Tech, are you sure?” he silently nodded, all of his attention on you. You took a deep breath through your nose before you spoke, “Okay… I’ll be blunt then. I was sexually abused, frequently when I was young. It went on for a long time. And whenever I felt safe somewhere new I would be quickly shown that I was not. There were occasions when it was more violent. And I have had vivid nightmares of it in the past. But they haven’t popped up since… maybe a month before I met you guys. But whenever they did they were all I could think about.”

“And that is what’s going on today I assume?”

“Yeah… pretty much.”

You could only bring yourself to focus on the ground, the idea of even looking at Tech right now was daunting. Eye contact was never your strong suit, but definitely not now.

“Do you feel safe?” he inquired bluntly, never being one to beat around the bush.

“Yes? No? I don’t know, it’s not easy to put into words. It’s like… realistically I know I am. But I can’t stop feeling like there is a possibility that I’m not.”

He shifted slightly, one knee up as he put all his weight on the thigh and hand closest to you.

“While I am not sure if it helps, I can assure you that you are. At least in that case. Obviously, there are dangers when it comes to our current line of work and we will always do our best to prevent harm, but please know that none of us would let something of that nature happen to you. You are safe here.”

You broke down at that. You weren’t used to your anxieties being comforted in this way. They were usually dealt with in your own time. Tears began to roll down your cheeks as your body shook. Every little thing that you had piled onto your shoulders began crumbling down.

Tech quietly spoke to you holding his hands up slightly trying to show he wasn’t a threat, facing you as he sat on his knees, “I apologize I did not mean to make you feel worse I-”

“No no don’t say sorry it’s not you just- I haven’t felt safe in a long time and you saying that caught me off guard. It’s hard to hear in a way. It’s frustrating that you even had to say that. Everything about today felt so hard but I know it shouldn’t have felt that way. I’m just so- so upset with myself you know? I feel so- broken. I hate feeling this way. I hate not being okay by now. I- I should be okay by now…” you vigorously wiped your eyes with your palms, sobs falling out of you. You could feel your walls falling and it terrified you. You shook harder as your anxiety bubbled up, all of your thoughts taking over. Tech was silent, you could almost feel him calculating what to do next.

Timid warm arms found themselves around you, slowly pulling you into Tech's chest. You flinched slightly at the sudden gesture before melting into him. His armor was cooler than you expected, but you welcomed it onto your warm face. Tech was stiff. Emotional comfort was not his specialty, but he couldn't bring himself to just sit there.

“I will never let anything happen to you. Do you understand?” He said to you quietly, only receiving a nod from you in return. “And while I do not have much expertise in situations like yours, I promise you do not have to deal with this on your own. You are… quite important to me.”

You didn’t respond, and he didn’t expect you to. You could feel your heartbeat pounding against your skull as you held onto his arms. He tightened his hold around you, securing you to him.

_

Exhaustion flooded over you when your anxiety attack finally stopped. You could barely bring yourself to move. Once Tech figured you got what you needed out of your system he finally spoke, 

“Are you tired? I hope you know I don't expect you to complete your lesson. It can wait.”

You laughed slightly at him stating what you thought was obvious, “Yeah a little. But… I'll be fine. Thank you for uhm- staying with me through that.” You rubbed your eyes, crusty from your salty tears hardening on your lashes. 

He stood up, making sure to not jostle you in doing so before offering you his hand to help you up. You finally looked up at him after everything. His brown eyes glistened softly under his goggles. They were warm, but the sad gleam they held was noticeable.

You took his hand so he could hoist you up. Your legs shook like twigs in the wind as you got back onto your feet.

“I really think you should rest. Anxiety attacks are quite draining. It will only do you good.”

He walked behind you as he pushed you up the ramp to the Marauder, not taking no for an answer. He even waited near the door to the bunks to make sure you made it up to your designated sleeping spot

“I will leave you to it.”

_

Tech sat in the pilot seat on his datapad for nearly two standard hours as you slept. He was looking into different coping mechanisms he could provide you. Or at least so he was better at calming you down. Not knowing what to do in any situation frustrated him. But he wasn't sure if it was because of his ego, or if it was because it had to do with you. 

His brows furrowed when he remembered how you shook like a leaf in his arms. He's never seen you cry, let alone like that. 

Tech sighed and set his device on his lap, resting his head in his hand as he thought about today. He couldn't help that he was still worrying about you. The thought of the things you told him whirred in his mind and he felt his hands clench slightly. He couldn't bring himself to even begin to imagine your experiences. And he knew if he saw those guilty of inflicting so much harm to you he'd see red. 

All he knew was that he had to protect you. He knew that he would by any means necessary. And if that meant merely holding you while you cried then that is what he'd do. Any time you needed him he'd make sure to be there. You were… special to Tech. He wasn't exactly sure why. Or what the exact feeling was. All he knew was that he stole glances at you whenever you weren't looking. He wanted to know every thought that ever entered your mind. And that your laugh was one of his favorite sounds. 

He has wondered before if it was perhaps love he felt for you, but he had no real way to be sure. He's never had a crush before so he wouldn't know exactly how that would feel. But it was the only idea that really made sense to him.

He wondered if you felt that way about him. Or if it was even possible that you could. Tech shook his head at the thought. Now was not the time.

He jolted when he felt you tap his shoulder.

“Hey, sorry I was out for so long. I brought you some caff,” you handed him a cup with an awkward smile, looking to the side instead of making eye contact.

“Ah… thank you.”

The seat beside him creaked as you sat down and he couldn't help but look at you. Your bedhead wasn't drastic but it was there. You somehow still looked tired despite sleeping for so long. That was probably why you had your own cup.

“How are you feeling?” 

“Better”

Tech hummed in response as he sipped his drink. It was relieving to hear you say that and it finally felt true, unlike your earlier statements.

A comfortable silence was between you as you both looked out the Marauder’s glass pane. 

“Tech?”

“Yes?”

“Can you uhm…tell me about something? Anything works. I kinda just wanna hear you talk.”

Tech was used to you catching him by surprise. You always managed to. But you outright saying you just wanted him to talk for the mere sake of talking wasn't something he'd ever expect from anyone. Though he figured it was just to keep your mind occupied. He thought for a moment before picking a topic.

“I don't believe I have told you how hyperdrives work and it's quite a fascinating topic really. The way they manage to preserve a vessel’s mass is quite spectacular, you'll love this-”

_

You loved hearing Tech talk, it was a great pass time and in your current moment a great distraction. Though you're embarrassed now with how straightforward you were with it. You took long sips of your caf, eyes focused on the dark sky and his voice. He began to ramble a bit about ionization, somewhat forgetting the original topic; but it was obvious that you didn't mind. You just appreciated how willingly he took your request.

A content hum came from you before Tech cleared his throat causing you to face him.

“Have you managed to eat anything yet? I am aware that anxiety can affect your digestive tract into having a lowered appetite, but I insist that you attempt to eat at the very least once a day.” 

You shook your head causing him to stand up to grab you a ration bar. You took it and begrudgingly ate. Between bites, you attempted to look Tech in the eyes.

“Thank you for caring, Tech. It's…. Nice”

Tech took in the features of your eyes, making sure to capture every little feature while he had the chance. A moment later, he adjusted his goggles and looked into his cup,

“That is nothing to thank me for. But… you are welcome. Anytime you require emotional assistance, notify me. You will never be a burden in doing so.”

You laughed at Tech a bit. His formal way of speech no matter who he talked to always seemed to be present. Even in intimate moments alone. You hoped he didn't think you were making fun of him. You just found him intriguing.

“Well alright…I'll keep that in mind Tech.” you stared into your cup, warmth surrounding your hands. You appreciated Tech’s efforts dearly, though you felt a bit guilty for breaking down in front of him. The back of your hands stung a bit, you didn't realize how raw they were from your fidgeting earlier. You took that as a sign that trimming your nails more frequently would be a good idea.

“May I see your hands?” You didn't notice him staring, but you reluctantly set down your cup and held them out to him. He set down his own cup before gently taking your hands into his for his inspection. He frowned at the wounds you accidentally gave yourself. A clear liquid formed over them as your body worked to prevent infection. “A bit deeper than expected… Wait here.”

He stood up suddenly to grab the med kit, coming back to you with Bacta spray and a roll of bandage wrap. He sat back in his pilot seat and took your left hand which took the worst of the damage.

“It may feel a bit uncomfortable. The texture is rather unpleasant.”

You grimaced once he sprayed your hands. He was right, it was quite slimy. It felt…honestly rather gross. but you ignored it the best you could, watching him work on you. Once he finished with the spray he skillfully wrapped your hands; likely having experience with minor wound care. He paused and kept your hands in his, looking up at you, tilting his head to get your attention. 

“How… is that? Too tight?”

“No- no it's good.”

He nodded but didn't let go. He seemed lost in thought as he looked at them. You felt his grip tighten, causing you to grimace slightly at the discomfort it brought. Suddenly, he hung his head; bringing his forehead to your hands. You were… more than a little confused. But you didn't break the silence that hung heavily in the Marauder’s cycled air. He broke the silence instead. 

Head still resting on your hands, he spoke quietly, “I will make sure to obtain a proper stimulation gadget for you.”

All you could offer him was a small okay, not sure how to navigate the situation. You couldn't figure out what he was feeling. But his discomfort was clear as he removed himself, excusing himself to the refresher. You sat there for multiple standard minutes trying to decipher him. 

Once he exited, he was obviously trying to string together something to say. But for once he couldn’t find anything.

“You alright Tech?”

He snapped his head up at you, “Oh! Ah yes, I am fine. To be blunt, I do not know exactly how to behave with you at the moment. This is quite new to me as well.”

You nodded “Well you don't need to do anything special. Your company is enough, Tech.” He sighed at that. He clearly felt like he should be able to offer more. But he was willing to take your word for it. He stood next to where you sat, probably bored out of his mind. 

You looked up at him, finally allowing yourself to find some comfort in his honey-brown eyes. You locked gazes as the peace you felt warmed you through your core. You found yourself leaning into him, head resting on his side. He was tense at first, not used to your unusual want for physical contact. But he found himself returning your gesture with a hand to your shoulder, pulling you closer.

[burningfieldof-clover]

cuddles with tech

for my darling @ilovestarwarsmen725, forever inspiring me to write for our wonderful clone force 99.

no warnings, just fluff

It has been too long of a day. You were tired, you were exhausted, you were done. It was time to go to bed. 

You didn’t know what Tech was up to, but that was normal. That man had a mind of his own and did whatever he wanted, whenever he wanted. You hoped that tonight he would come find you. 

After a shower and finishing your nightly routine, you stared at your reflection. Your hair was getting a little long, maybe even a little… fluffy? Maybe it’s time for a haircut…

You got ready for bed and were pleasantly surprised to find Tech waiting for you. He sat his datapad on the bedside table. 

“Mesh’la, it’s nice to see you,” he said as he pulled back the covers on your side of the bed. 

You smiled, feeling relief at hearing his voice. “You’re a sight for sore eyes,” you said with a teasing tone. You get under the blankets and instantly slid into place against him with a content sigh. 

Tech wrapped his arms around you, momentarily breaking contact to remove his goggles and put them on his table to join his datapad. He returned to gathering you up in his arms and into place. 

“You fit so nice against me,” he whispers into your ear. 

You kiss his cheek as he started tracing small circles on your arm and back. “I missed you today,” you told him. 

Tech made a quiet hum. He didn’t say anything else. One of his hands started to card through your hair. You shivered, and he leaned back to look at you.

“Sorry,” you said sheepishly. “My hair is getting long, I thought it looked bad.”

Tech chuckled and kissed your forehead. “I think it’s nice. I was going to comment on it.”

You leaned back a bit to meet his gaze. His eyes opened in response and as always, those beautiful took your breath away for a moment. “It doesn’t look bad? It’s so… fluffy.”

Tech smiled down at you. “I don’t lie, my love. It looks nice. It’s fun to play with.” To prove his point, he gives it a small tug, earning a small growling sound from you. 

“Okay, fine,” you said with a smile. “You can pull on it later, but for now… can you just keep playing with my hair?”

Without saying anything, Tech obliged. His long fingers ran through your hair, his nails gently scratching your scalp. It was more than comforting, and it helped the stress from the day disappear, the clenched feeling in your shoulders melt away, and your body relax even more into Tech’s. 

You didn’t even need to say anything to him about the day, he probably wouldn’t even have needed to know anyway, but he always knew how to help you relax and feel better about anything and everything. 

[oceansssblue]

Okay if we’re doing omegaverse requests. . . Platonic bad batch x fem! Reader who was under the impression that she was a beta . . . But then finds out that she’s just a very late bloomer omega and the batch have to help her out (non sexually, more like help build a nest and take care of her) when she finds out because her heat comes up out of nowhere. The batch can be all alphas, betas, omegas, or a mixture of all of them!

I see a theme coming in in my requests haha 👀 Another platonic fluffy one coming right up!

Xx, Blue.

"BUILDING MODE" – PLATONIC TBB (a/b/o) & F READER (o) 💖

WARNINGS: Omegaverse common shit minus the smutt. Completely platonic. A hint of reader going into panic upon realising what is happening, but tbb inmediately comforting her. Fluff, fluff, fluff!

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

As their medic, you had been in the Batch's barraks a million times now. Wether it was to force them to go under a medical check-up, or just to spend some time together, you had the image of the room –and the scent– ingrained in your mind. And you had always felt comfortable there; but somehow, today, things just didn't seem right. You frowned, trying to pinpoint exactly what was causing you discomfort while scanning the room. The boys were sprawled around; Echo, Hunter and Wrecker in their respective bunks while Crosshair played with his sniper and Tech on his datapad, in full investigation mode. Again, the usual. It wasn't them; it was just the room itself.

You glanced around in a thoughtfull silence. They were too scattered around; they'd be safer if they were closer, pushed together. You'd be safer.

You squirmed nervously, still sitting on Tech's spare bunk. Perhaps you were just growing paranoid.

"Bones" Hunter inmeditely noticed the anxiety growing inside of you. "You okay?"

Your eyes snapped back towards him; grateful for his quiet attentiveness. Hesitantly, you shook your head. It was a bit silly, but this was somehow really getting to you.

"I... There's too many open spots here. Why did the kaminoans put the bunks this close to the door?"

Hunter frowned in confusion, and Tech answered without taking his eyes away from his datapad.

"The possibilities of someone infiltrating in Kamino and making their way to our barraks without being stopped by any security are minimal" he stated, fingers tapping on the screen at light speed. "Unless it's another clone, I suppose. There's not much space for another room configuration anyways".

Tech's words made your worry increase instead of the opposite. Some regs hated the Batch; and by extension, you. What if one of them tried to hurt them?

"We... We're not safe here" you pointed out again, picking on your nails nervously.

Crosshair, who hadn't stopped firmly staring at you throughout the whole ordeal, read into the signs.

"Are you close to your heat, Bones?"

You stared back at him in shock; confusion swimming in your eyes. The room seemed to paralise upon the sniper's question.

"I-I'm not an omega" you blurted out inmediately. "I'm a beta, I thought you all knew".

Crosshair answered with a quiet snort.

"You're starting to smell like an omega, and this sudden discomfort with our barraks is definitely omega behaviour".

You didn't even know what to say. You... You were twenty five by now. You had never had a heat in your life once. Your parent's were both betas. It was just logical that you were one too.

"Wouldn't I have presented already by now, if I was?"

At the urgent matter, Tech abandoned his datapad.

"Not necessarily" he answered, scanning you in search for those same signs. "Omega's usually present between ages 13-20, but there's multiple registers of late bloomers. It's not completely unusual for an omega to present in their twenties".

You glanced around; silently asking for the other's opinion. You were completely lost.

"Crosshair's right" Hunter admited. "Your scent's changing, turning sweeter. Like honey".

At your increasing panic at the realisation of your situation, Wrecker tried to cheer you up.

"Aw, don't worry Bones. It's easy being an omega when you're in a pack. We'll help you through" he walked to you and enveloped you in a hug.

You noticed he smelled like sugar; something you hadn't realised until now. Wrecker was an omega too; while Tech and Echo were betas and Crosshair and Hunter alphas. You tried to breathe through the mess of emotions swirling inside of you. At least you were with your pack; the thought sent a rush of soothing warmth inside of you.

"Would you like us to help you built a nest?" Tech asked, voice gentler than usual.

The thought inmediately called to you.

"Yes, please" you sigh, relieved.

Yes, that was exactly what you needed. A nest. A safe place for all of them to bask in.

"Let's get all the matresses down on the floor" Hunter sugested. "Where would you like us to set them up?"

You scanned the room. Not close to the door.

"There" you confidently pointed to the opposite side of the barraks.

It was the furthest place away from the entrance, in a corner of the room. It would be easier to protect.

"Good choice" Tech confirmed, and you smiled brightly at him.

The boys jumped into action; dragging each of their matresses down to the designated spot. There was something still missing, though. The surface was too rough. It was not comforting enough.

"Can we bring the pillows too?" You timidly asked.

You felt like you were doing a bit of a fuss.

Fortunately, the boys didn't seem bothered at all; and quickly adapted.

Soon, a fort of pillows was placed on top of the matresses too; as well as the bedsheets and blankets. It started to look more like a nest, and you hummed in agreement.

"What do you think?"

You stared at the nest. It looked good; but somehow impersonal. It could be anyone's nest. It needed... Homeyness, familiar scents.

"Can I have..." you swallowed the rest of the sentence down, your cheeks reddening in embarassment.

Surely you couldn't ask them that. It could come of as creepy.

Wrecker smiled.

"Oh, I know what it is! She needs some of our clothes as well. Familiar scents are always comforting, and it makes the nest feel more like a home. Safer".

You nodded quietly, surprised and eternally grateful at Wrecker.

The boys smiled softly and went to retrieve some clothing items for you. Echo and Hunter donated a pair of t-shirts each; which you bunched and placed in between the pillows happily. Tech and Wrecker gave you their long-sleeved GAR blacks. When you turned to look at Crosshair, expectantly, he handed you two precious items; the only two sweaters he had outside of regulation clothes, the ones he used in their very sparse free time. You beamed at him; placing one with the rest and actually putting on the other one. It smelled like him, and you could almost dissapear in it; you sighed happily and smiled at them.

You jumped on the nest, and the boys slowly sat down or layed besides you. Hunter hugged you to him; Wrecker rambling about his first omega experiences to try to soothe your worries. Tech returned to his investigation, propped up against a pillow next to you. Crosshair and Echo chatted quietly.

You felt relaxed and happy. Safe. Warm. It was going to be okay.

THE END.

Omegaverse masterlist here:

[missfrieden]

Tech as a father Chapter 82

Big thanks to all who still read despite my crappy upload rhythm. Also I am not the best at re-writing scenes. It makes me squeazy. So I hope you all can accept the little jumps, and more internal descreptions. Also a bit looping in the end, as I tried to write how the mind spins around in anxiety.

On the bright side, one more week till two weeks of vacation, so hopefully I post more then.

Chapter 82: Aftermath

As the tension lingers in the barracks, Crosshair's frustration fills the air like a heavy fog. His resentment towards Hunter simmers just beneath the surface, evident in the sharp glares he shoots in his direction.

Tech, meanwhile, sits with Orion nestled in his lap, his mind consumed by thoughts of Amanda. The weight of uncertainty presses down on him as he grapples with the grim reality that she may have fallen victim to Order 66. Despite his efforts to focus on the project in front of him, his thoughts keep drifting back to her, unable to shake the gnawing worry that gnaws at his insides. "Stay strong, little trooper," Tech murmurs to Orion, his voice strained with emotion as he tries to shield the infant from the turmoil swirling around them. He runs a gentle hand over Orion's back, seeking solace in the warmth of his son's presence.

Crosshair's simmering anger adds to the tension in the room, the palpable sense of unease weighing heavily on the squad. Despite the divide between them, Tech knows that they must find a way to come together and navigate the uncertain future that lies ahead. With determination burning in his eyes, Tech silently vows to protect Orion and his brothers, drawing strength from the bond they share. As they weather the storm of Order 66, he remains steadfast in his resolve to keep his loved ones safe, no matter the cost. Even if it means to not try and think about… her.

As they trudge wearily back from the mission they intentionally failed, tension hangs thick in the air, palpable and suffocating. Crosshair's accusatory words cut through the silence like a knife, his gaze cold and unyielding as he fixates on Tech. "Orion is the offspring of one of them," Crosshair declares his tone laced with venomous disdain. "And if he's anything like them, then he has betrayed us too."

Tech's jaw clenches, his grip on Orion tightening instinctively as he squares his shoulders, refusing to back down in the face of Crosshair's accusation. "Orion is just a baby, Crosshair," he retorts, his voice tinged with frustration and disbelief. "An innocent infant who has done nothing wrong. He has done nothing to you, or anyone else for that matter!"

Hunter watches the exchange with a mixture of concern and relief, grateful that they've had not the time to disclose Orion's Force sensitivity to the rest of the squad. He knows that revealing the truth now would only escalate the situation further, in hindsight it was good not to inform the others, and he silently hopes and knows Tech will stand firm in his resolve.

Crosshair's insistence grows more fervent, his eyes narrowing as he demands that Tech hand over Orion for inspection. “Let him be checked by the Kaminoans, there is nothing stopping me from marching down there and telling who the mother was!” But Tech refuses, his arms wrapped protectively around his son as he meets Crosshair's gaze with unwavering defiance. "No," Tech states firmly, his voice leaving no room for argument. "Orion stays with me." Cradling Orion even closer to his chest.

Crosshair's lip curls into a sneer, Tech's refusal is confirmation of his suspicions. In his eyes, Orion's mere existence is enough to brand him as a traitor, a sentiment that sends a chill down the spine of the squad. As they continue their journey back to base, the rift between them deepens, fuelled by suspicion and mistrust. And in the heart of it all, Tech holds Orion close, determined to shield his son from the storm brewing within their ranks.

--------

As the heavy clang of the brig door reverberates through the cramped cell, Tech's heart sinks like a stone in his chest. He watches in silent agony as Gala Ta takes Orion from his arms, the tiny infant reaching out for his father with chubby fingers, unaware of the turmoil unfolding around him. Tech's mind races with a jumble of conflicting thoughts and emotions, his hands clenched into fists at his sides as he struggles to contain the overwhelming surge of fear and desperation threatening to consume him. They may be trapped behind bars, but his son is out there, vulnerable and alone, and every instinct within him screams to protect him at all costs.

As the squad huddles together, now with Omega but without Crosshair, plotting their escape and grappling with the gravity of their situation, Tech's focus remains singularly fixed on Orion. He listens with a mixture of apprehension and determination as they devise a plan to break free, knowing that their success hinges not only on their own survival but on rescuing his son from the clutches of their captors.

Every passing moment feels like an eternity, each second stretching out into an agonizing eternity as they wait for the opportune moment to make their move. Tech's thoughts are consumed by the image of Orion's innocent face, his heart aching with the need to hold him in his arms once more. His leg is bouncing as his mind tries to come up with a way to leave. But amidst the chaos and uncertainty, Tech finds a flicker of hope burning bright within him, a beacon of determination that drives him forward even in the face of insurmountable odds. He knows that they will find a way out, that they will reclaim their freedom and reunite with Orion, no matter the cost. And as they steel themselves for the inevitable confrontation ahead, Tech clings to the unwavering belief that no prison bars can contain the strength of a father's love for his son. Then he looks up. “I’ve got it! Why didn’t I think of that before?”

Chapter 83

Reblogs are very welcome and I am open for feedback, as english is not my first language, so maybe my sentences may be weird sometimes, or I write a word wrong even with google, or I use a wrong word for an item.

Tag: @spectacular-skywalker @clonethirstingisreal @sleepycreativewriter @moonwreckd @sskim-milkk @heidnspeak