Horizon Forbidden West characters reacting to you flinching during an argument
Aloy (wlw if romantic)
The moment Aloy sees you flinch, her entire demeanor softens, and the fight drains out of her
She would immediately apologize, hating that she made you feel unsafe or uncomfortable around her
Aloy would likely close the distance between you, gently touching your arm or face to reassure you that she’s not a threat
After the incident, she’d spend time reflecting on her actions and would probably be overly cautious in future arguments
She would sit down with you to discuss what just happened and make sure you know she never meant to hurt you emotionally
“Hey… I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to scare you”
Varl
Varl would be stunned, his eyes widening as he realizes the impact of his words or actions
He’d instantly soften his voice, stepping closer but moving slowly to avoid making you more uncomfortable
Varl would sincerely apologize, his voice full of regret
His protective instincts would kick in, and he’d be more careful in future discussions, making sure never to raise his voice
He’d likely pull you into a tight, comforting hug, wanting to show you through his actions that you’re safe with him
“I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to - are you okay?”
Elisabeth Sobeck (wlw if romantic)
Elisabeth’s expression would immediately shift from frustration to regret, realizing she’s caused you to flinch
She’d quickly apologize, her voice trembling slightly, as she’s not used to feeling so vulnerable. "I’m sorry. That was not my intention."
Elisabeth would want to discuss what led to the flinch, understanding that your relationship should be built on trust and safety
She would reassure you that she would never intentionally hurt you, emotionally or otherwise
Elisabeth would be visibly affected, realizing how much she cares about you and how deeply she values your comfort and trust.
“I’m sorry, that wasn’t my intention”
Sylens
Sylens would pause, the sharpness in his eyes dulling as he processes your reaction
He wouldn’t apologize directly but would immediately lower his tone and distance himself from the intensity he had before
Internally, he’d be frustrated with himself, though he might not show it outwardly
He would try to address the situation logically, asking what made you flinch and how to prevent it in the future
Despite his often cold demeanor, he’d find a way to show that he cares, perhaps by offering a solution to the argument in a calm manner
“Calm down, y/n, it’s not like I’m gonna hurt you”
Beta
Beta would likely tear up, the flinch triggering her own fears and insecurities
She’d immediately apologize, possibly stumbling over her words as she tries to reassure you that she didn’t mean to frighten you
Beta would likely start blaming herself, thinking she’s messed up and hurt you
If she feels safe enough, she’d reach out to hold your hand or touch your shoulder, needing the physical connection to reassure both you and herself
In the future, Beta would be extremely cautious during any disagreements, afraid of accidentally scaring you again
“Oh no, I didn’t mean to–I’m so sorry”
Erend
Erend would be visibly shocked, the guilt hitting him immediately
He’d drop whatever argument you were having and rush to your side, desperate to comfort you
Makes sure you know that he’d never hurt you
He’d likely pull you into a bear hug, wanting to physically reassure you of his feelings
Erend would make a promise to be more careful with his words and actions in the future, valuing your trust above all
"Whoa, hey, no, I’m sorry. I’d never hurt you, you know that, right?"
Petra
Petra’s expression would immediately soften, her voice losing all its previous edge
She’d apologize without hesitation, feeling a pang of guilt for making you flinch
She might reach out to gently take your hand or touch your face, offering a calming gesture to reassure you
Petra would want to discuss what happened, making sure you’re both on the same page and that there are no lingering fears
She’d be more mindful in future arguments, ensuring she never raises her voice or says something that might scare you
“Hey, sorry, that’s not what I wanted”
Tilda (wlw if romantic)
Tilda would be surprised at first, not expecting you to flinch
Her concern would be masked under a composed exterior
She would immediately dial back her intensity, speaking in a much softer tone
Despite her often cold demeanor, she’d apologize, perhaps more out of obligation but still with a hint of genuine concern
Tilda would reassure you that you have nothing to fear from her, though her way of doing so might be more intellectual than emotional
"I didn’t intend to make you uncomfortable."
Alva (wlw if romantic)
Alva’s eyes would widen with concern, and she’d immediately stop whatever she was saying
Her voice would be soft and filled with remorse when she apologizes
She’d likely reach out to you, gently touching your arm or hand, seeking to comfort you physically as well as verbally
Alva would offer soothing words, reassuring you that you’re safe with her and that she never meant to hurt you
From that moment on, she’d be more conscious of her tone and actions during disagreements, ensuring that she maintains a caring and understanding approach
"I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you like that."
