Summary: You decide to stay in bed to deal with the pain you're experiencing. The Batch notices and sends Tech to check on you.
Warnings: Reader kind of described as AFAB as fic deals with period pain. But other than that, pure fluff! It can 100% be platonic.
Word Count: 918
Notes: Does the Bad Batch understand anatomy? Probably. Was it more fun to make them panic? Absolutely. I mostly wrote this for me as I took the day off work for this exact reason 😂 no real proofreading.
Taglist: None, let me know if you'd like to be added!
Masterlist
The Marauder's cockpit seemed weirdly empty without you, and everyone noticed your absence. You hadn't been with Clone Force 99 for very long, but when you spend all your time with the same people for four months, they start to worry when you're not being as social as you normally would.
"Where is she?" Hunter finally asked, looking at the empty seat you normally occupied.
Wrecker shrugged, "I tried calling her this morning for breakfast but she didn't leave her room."
"Is it not obvious?" Tech asked, eyes not leaving his datapad. "She exhibits this behaviour roughly around the same time each month."
He thought he was giving everyone the answer, but their confused faces told him that he wasn't.
"She is mostly likely menstruating."
"In Common, Tech." Wrecker said.
Crosshair rolled his eyes, "She's on her period. It's not the end of the world."
Eyes turned back to Tech for an explanation, and he sighed.
"Do none of you pay attention to the anatomy manuals? People who are biologically female go through this process nearly every month. Their body prepares itself for an egg to be fertilized, but when it is not, it begins to shed the excess in the form of blood and uterine lining. Typically resulting in side effects such as; mood swings, pelvic cramps, lower back pain, and headaches to name a few."
Wrecker looked shocked, "And they do this every month? That sounds painful."
Tech shrugged, "I couldn't say, from my understanding, each person reacts differently."
"Shouldn't we check on her? Make sure she's okay?" Hunter asked.
"She does it every month with or without us, I don't see how now is any different." Crosshair pointed out.
"Yeah but, we're her friends, we should help if we can."
Wrecker looked back to Tech, "You know the most about it, you go see if she's okay."
Expectant looks all pointed in Tech's direction and he shook his head. "Fine, I suppose I could inquire after her."
Truthfully, Tech was also concerned for you, even though he had a vague understanding of what was going on. He found your presence soothing, and the Marauder seemed more cheerful with you around. And it was his nature to want to solve any problems that arose, so he wanted the chance to do that now.
He got up from his seat and walked toward the refresher to look for a hot compress and some painkillers so that he might actually be of assistance before cautiously walking toward your room.
He knocked quietly.
"...Yeah?" You croaked from inside the room.
"It's Tech, may I come in?"
You didn't answer immediately but then after a few seconds you spoke, "Door's unlocked."
He pressed the button to open the door before stepping in and letting it close behind him. He frowned slightly when he was you curled up on your bunk with your arms around your stomach.
"I take it I was correct then, you are menstruating."
"Yeah." You replied a little too harshly. "Did you need something?"
"It appears your absence went quite noticed this morning and the others are worried about you."
"So they sent you to check on me?"
He adjusted his goggles, "Well, even though I had suspected what the issue was, I suppose I was also worried."
You didn't say anything, but you moved slowly, creating room for him to sit down on your bunk, he sat on the edge.
"I have brought you a compress and painkillers, if you are interested. I have heard they help to alleviate any cramping and pain associated with it." He handed both to you.
You smiled at his gesture and took the painkillers first. "Thank you," you swallowed two of them down with water from the canteen beside your bunk, then you took the heat compress and hugged it to your stomach.
"Is there anything else I can do for you?" He asked, looking down at you.
You looked at him then looked at your pillow and shook your head.
"Very well, I will check up on you later then." He announced before standing up and walking toward the door.
"Wait.." You called out. He turned to look at you. "Can you stay.. with me?"
His expression went from surprised to a gentle smile, and he nodded. "Of course."
He walked back over to your bunk and returned to his seat on the edge.
"Can we- er... Can you hold me?" You asked, so quietly that he thought he might have misheard you.
"You'd like me to hold you?" He repeated.
His need for clarification caused blood to rise to your face in embarrassment.
"If-if that's okay, actually, nevermind I-"
But before you could finish your rambling, Tech crawled into the bunk next to you, holding you so your back was firm against his chest.
You sighed into him and closed your eyes as he began drawing idle shapes on the skin of your shoulder.
"Thank you, Tech." You repeated.
"You are welcome, but your gratitude is unwarranted. We are your friends, we want to help you. Anytime you need us, you do not need to be afraid to ask for help, no matter what ails you.”
You smiled once more. With the heat both from the compress and Tech pressed against you and the painkillers beginning to kick in, you felt yourself finally begin to drift off to sleep. Despite his protests, you were truly grateful to have friends who cared about you, no matter what was going on.
Summary: After some bad dreams interrupt your sleep, you find some unexpected comfort in your beloved partner, Tech.
Pairing: Tech x gn!reader
Warnings: hurt/comfort, waking from bad dreams (no details), fluffy practical Tech in a newish relationship.
Word Count: ~800
A/N: AHHHHHH okay okay okay so the plot goblins absolutely infested my brain after I saw THIS ✨incredible✨ artwork of our darling Tech by @ghostymarni 🫶🏻
This is completely self indulgent because, well, I love him, your honor. I was also a little inspired by the scene in the episode of Schitt’s Creek where Alexis tells David about her breakup with Mutt and realizes she needs a hug 😂
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Hey, Tech?" you murmured into the room he was occupying.
Tech hummed softly in acknowledgment. "It is late and I am in the middle of repairs—what do you need?" he asked quietly, not looking up from his project.
You didn't take offense to his demeanor when interrupted; it was just how his brain worked. His mind never ceasing its search for information and solutions. Sometimes that meant extracting himself from your sleepy cocoon to pursue whatever pathway his incredible mind had opened up to him in the middle of the night. But when you didn't respond for a moment, it shifted his unwavering attention to you, immediately noticing your slightly disheveled state.
"I just…" You paused again. "Maker, this is so stupid," you muttered under your breath, unsure if Tech heard you or not.
There was no room for anxiety in your gut now that the mortified butterflies had taken over. Things were still fairly new with you and Tech. You appreciated that he wasn't one who typically relied on physical affection to convey his feelings—and neither were you, really, but right now you were still a human with a rattled nervous system.
You heard the sound of tools being set down gently and the quiet thump of his approaching footsteps.
Your face was burning with embarrassment. You weren't a child, clearly, you should be able to console yourself and go back to sleep, but you were here now and had his undivided attention. Something that made your chest flutter wildly whenever you had it.
The toes of his boots came into your view as he stopped in front of you. "Sarad?" Tech inquired, his voice softening. "Is something the matter? You seem… unsettled." He offered. The warmth he always radiated displaced some of the chill that had set into your bones, and you instinctively leaned forward into him a little more. "Did I wak—"
"I had a nightmare—" you blurted out, inwardly groaning. Your eyes flicked up to his briefly before focusing on the middle of his chest. “I woke up and you…”
"I see," he said softly after a moment, adjusting his goggles as he regarded you. "You were seeking comfort after your bad dreams had woken you?"
"It's nothing—I was just a bit anxious when I woke up, but it's… it's nothing," you said again, standing on your tiptoes and giving him a soft kiss on the cheek. "I'm fine, I really should go back to sleep…and don’t to stay up too la—" you rambled, still talking yourself out of whatever reason you had to disturb him. You took a few steps back the way you came, but Tech’s hands on your shoulders stopped you.
"Your heart rate is elevated," he said plainly, peering at you. "You are flushed and speaking more quickly than usual." Tech lifted the back of his hand to gently run along your heated cheekbone. "…and you are avoiding eye contact with me, so I can deduce that you are, in fact, not 'fine’, my dear," he said softly, his fingers trailing down your chin before he pulled them away.
"Do you want to tell me about it?" he asked genuinely. “I know that helps you sometimes,”
You shook your head, furrowing your brow. "It's just the same one I told you about," you confessed, biting the inside of your cheek, trying to determine yourself what it is you were seeking. His hand was back at his side, but you wished it was still caressing your face.
"I think I might need a…hug…" you said warily, as if you were unsure of the words that came out of your own mouth. "…or something?" You added, crossing your arms over your chest.
"Ah," he said, his eyes darting back and forth processing this information. He did that sometimes. You couldn't help but smile at seeing the brain you adored at work for you. "I understand," he added before walking back to his workbench—making it seem as though he didn't actually understand at all. You took a few steps in his direction as he pulled over a nearby chair and sat down.
Confusion was visible on your face. You told him you needed a hug, or something, and he immediately went and sat down? Possibly to continue the task you had just interrupted? But he didn't start working; he just looked at you expectantly.
"Come here, sarad," he said gently, shifting in the seat and patting his legs.
You smiled slowly, now understanding, and tiptoed over to him, gingerly taking a seat in his lap. He pulled you to him tightly, encouraging you to relax and lounge fully on him. He kissed the top of your head and ran his hand up and down your spine as you curled into the crook of his neck, inhaling his familiar scent of clean soap and mechanical ozone.
"This is nice," you sighed contentedly, feeling the tension in your chest releasing.
"Good," he quipped, brushing your face with his fingers again. "Rest. Fall asleep if you wish… I shall be here."
"Thank you," you murmured, curling your arms around his waist and closing your eyes. Tech's hands eventually left you to resume his task, but he pressed his lips into the top of your head every so often, reminding you he was still right there with you. His warmth and the steady thrum of his heart soothed you, while the sounds of his gentle tinkering and even breathing lulled you back into a peaceful sleep.
When you awoke, you found yourself back in Tech's bunk, but this time he was wrapped around you, snoring softly into your shoulder.
Synopsis: tech often gets ignored because of his constant chatter but you sit down and listen.
Genre: FLUFF FLUFF FLUFF. One itty bitty pinch of angst
Word Count: 791
Warnings: none
A/N: just thought it'd be cute and wholesome. Can be read as platonic or romantic. :))
“Good morning Tech.” You announced, your voice running like honey. There was a grogginess to your words. Tech and you always woke up first, it had just become routine after the few weeks you'd been with the Batch. “Good morning y/n.” Tech replied, his eyes glued to the new project he was working on. His back hunched over in the chair. Curious, you make your way over to his side with a drink in your hands. “What are you workin’ on?" Tech moves his face a little closer to his project, “I’m working on a portable communication device; also known as a ‘com link.’”
“Can I look at it?” You spoke softly and genuinely interested. Your words hit Tech’s ears and he stopped. "Uhm sure, just don't touch it.” He swivels out of the way letting you come closer to investigate the item. He pushes his goggles up intensely watching you interact with his project.
“This is super cool!” You moved your face closer to look at all the intricate mechanisms of the device. Tech's eyebrows relaxed feeling a sense of pride in his work. "Thank you y/n.” No one ever really payed attention or listened to whatever it was he was making. He was slightly confused on why you were so interested. He analysed you and your actions, deciding to speak his hypothesis.
“Are you perhaps looking to create something similar?” You looked over at him, “oh kriff no, I don't have the talent you do Tech.” Your response baffled him even more so, “well thank you but then why the indulgment in my project?” Your eyes softened, “I just think it’s really cool.” Tech’s face was stagnant so you elaborated, “I appreciate the small details and knowledge it takes in order to basically build something mechanical from scratch. I admire it.”
He finally understood, “ah I see now, your lack of knowledge on basic mechanical systems fascinates you that’s why you're admiring mine.” Ouch you thought, but he wasn't wrong. You sigh, “I tried to word it a bit more poetically, but yeah.” You looked back at the device, Tech stayed silent he was debating something in his mind.
“Apologies if that was a bit harsh, I was just confused as to why you would be interested other than for your own benefits. I’m not used to…people being interested in what I’m doing or saying…” It was a heartfelt apology, you knew his brothers got bored of what he was saying, not out of malicious intentions they just weren't invested. Your face saddened at the device, “I forgive you Tech, I know you weren't trying to be mean.”
He released a heavy sigh of relief and spoke, “If you want to learn more about my technology and mechanics I could teach you.” Your eyes shifted, “sure.” You smiled knowing it would make both of you happy. Tech fixed his goggles and came closer to you and the device. “Well when’s my first lesson?” Tech grabs a tool, “right now.” You smiled softly, “so first it is undeniably important that—” His words drifted through the air as you absorbed them, taking in all the information and asking questions.
Time seemed to fly by that morning and you two were completely indulged in his creations. While listening you couldn't help but think how good it must feel to talk to someone who wants to listen to you. It only made you more eager to ask questions, and made you feel good. With your attention completely captured you didn't see the other men huddled together gossiping about it.
“Looks like they're getting along.” Hunter’s lips threatened a smile, seeing his brother happy. “I’m hungry!” Wrecker groaned in a whisper. “Let Tech have this a little longer, even I can only take so much ‘Tech talk.’” Echo rubbed his temple recalling all the moments where he had been close to drifting off to sleep while Tech lectured him about mechanics. Crosshair said nothing, only his typical scowl and toothpick in his mouth. He watched you two interact and he was totally going to tease you for it later.
A loud rumble was heard and it had disrupted Tech and your attention. It was Wreckers stomach growling, he sheepishly smiled. “Sorry.” You chuckled. “We’ll continue this lesson later y/n,” Tech spoke and got up placing his device in a safe space. “We're you guys just waiting?” You raised a brow. “You looked like you were having fun.” Hunter smiled.
“And Tech most of all.” Crosshair finally spoke pointing his toothpick at you. Tech heard this and a the edge of his lips lifted ever so slightly. Your ears heated up, you grinned. “Stow it Crosshair,” Echo hissed. You just chuckled enjoying the mens antics.
So for those writing prompts,,, maybe a tech x reader just because all of these scream tech to me? But obviously if you take this prompt, no pressure to include all of them!!
someone's hair ending up getting caught in the other's glasses/jewelry
maybe one is awkward enough to the point where they're like "what the hell do i do with my hands?!"
that panic beforehand while trying to figure out if they're really leaning in for a kiss or not.
Hello friend! You're absolutely right, all three do fit together really well. It took a little reorganizing to get them to line up in a reasonable way, but I think I got it in the end :)
I hope you enjoy! (And thank you for helping me get out of my writer's block!!)
First Kiss Prompts
A Little Awkward Never Killed Nobody
Pairing: Tech x gn: Reader (Note: Reader has hair long enough to get snagged on Tech's goggles, but that is the only note re: their appearance)
Warnings: Nothing but good ol' first kiss awkwardness.
W/C: 1,596
Dividers by @saradika
Masterlist / Join my taglist
It wasn’t your first choice of hiding spot. Then again, if you had the choice at all, you wouldn’t have taken this latest mission from Cid. But wishful thinking didn’t change the fact that you were stuck in what had to be the smallest closet in the galaxy. Barely large enough to fit one average-sized humanoid comfortably, the space in question struggled to contain both you and Tech.
You were pressed firmly against his front, unable to move from the way you awkwardly landed on him when he first pulled you in, desperate to escape notice from the Empire’s sentries. But in the heavy moments since, all you could think about was the awkward angle of your arms, trapped between your chest and his, resting on his chestplate.
Well, no, that wasn’t quite true. There was one other thought, one observation you were struggling not to analyze too heavily — his own hands were holding your waist and lower back. And rather firmly considering you were no longer at risk of losing your balance. And hells if it wasn’t more delicious and indulgent than you had imagined.
And that was the problem. Imagining in the safety of your own bunk, after the others had fallen asleep, was one thing. Imagining what could come next when you were actually in Tech’s arms, when you may be deluded enough to finally act on your barely contained crush was pushing dangerously close to the line you’ve drawn for yourself.
You were unwilling to risk your friendship with him just to pursue a crush. And even if you were … you wouldn’t risk it in a storage closet in an Imperial facility.
So the moment you heard the footsteps outside fade away, you turned to open the door, only to be pulled back, Tech’s hands tightening their hold on you.
“Not yet.” His whisper was barely audible, though he didn’t really give you a choice whether to comply. “They could double back. We should wait to be sure.”
You give a small nod, your chin brushing against the hard plastoid of his armor, your arms still awkwardly framing your head. In all your daydreaming, you never pictured such an awkward situation. What the hell do I do with my hands?
You tried adjusting as subtly as you could, not wanting to draw attention. But there was only so much you could do in the limited space without bumping into and brushing against Tech.
His hold tightened again. “Please don’t move,” he said, the hiss in his whisper betraying more tension than before.
Stilling instantly, you breathed a small, “Sorry.”
A shake of his head brushed off your apology. He opened his mouth, but when Tech looked down at you, whatever he was going to say faded away. Instead, he just looked at you with an intensity you only saw him give the most challenging puzzles, his stare unfiltered by his helmet, which rested just by your feet.
His hand drifted higher, moving slow and firm from your lower back to settle just between your shoulder blades before pressing against you and pushing you even closer to him. You couldn’t stop the way your lips parted in response, sucking in as much air as possible after the gesture robbed you of yours.
All the while, your eyes never left his.
His gaze was heavy, and now you knew that the weight of every thought you left unsaid was only part of the equation. Tech was never one to lose his words. And yet here he was, his lips parting and resealing over and over as his eyes combed over your face.
Slowly, so painfully slowly you weren’t sure if he was really moving at first, Tech leaned down. Each inch he took speeding the frantic pace of your heart, still unsure and unwilling to believe this was happening. There’s only one reason your mind could conceive that would have Tech invading your personal space even more than situationally necessary.
But doubt still plagued you. This was Tech — unshakable, measured, straightforward and so damn intelligent he bordered on ineffable. All traits you loved about him but that made believing he could be doing something as frivolous and unexpected as kiss you, especially right now, even harder.
You were at a precipice, and your body was crumbling under the weight of the unknown. Heart racing, clammy palms sticking against his armor. All your focus was on Tech’s face … and on trying to even your ragged breaths.
Finally, Tech moved close enough to rest against you. And it was as if a switch had flipped. The press of his forehead against yours grounded you, and you indulged in the warmth of his breath against your face.
“My apologies. I —”
As much as you loved the low scrape of Tech’s voice as he struggled to form his own words, you cut him off with the press of your finger against his mouth, knowing if you didn’t act now, you may not get the courage later.
Any thought of the sentries, of the mission, heck of the others at all, vacated your mind. You leaned forward even more, lifting up to the tips of your toes, broadcasting your intentions as loudly as you could in the quiet. A shiver ran through you as you saw Tech’s eyes widen and darken.
His lips were almost on yours, so close you could practically taste him. You shut your eyes, body almost vibrating in anticipation …
… before the static crackle of your comm made you jump and bump your head uncomfortably against Tech’s.
“Sentries have been recalled to the northern entrance. Rendezvous to the south, 1.5 klicks.” Hunter’s voice comes through sharp as the order to retreat, and it’s like a wave of cold water to your system.
And as the heat left your body, anxiety was at the ready to slip into place, heavy as a stone in your stomach.
You lifted your arm to rub at the sore spot on your temple, grateful for the excuse to focus on something other than Tech, other than your current situation made more awkward by your advances.
It was only then you noticed a few strands of hair are sticking out, taught and pointing straight ahead … at a rivet in Tech’s goggles.
Oh no.
Before you manage to say anything, Tech moved to grab his helmet off the floor, instantly lighting up the sore spit and pulling you with him.
“Stop – AH! – Stop moving, Tech. I think I’m stuck,” you whispered louder than you intended, desperately grabbing at him to pull him back up.
“Stuck? I do not see …”
It was then he realized your hand pressed against your head, desperately trying to create some slack on your hair. “Ah, yes. Now I see.”
“I can untangle it. Just give me a sec,” you insisted, reaching up to peel your hair out of the metal when Tech stopped you.
“Here. It’ll be more efficient this way.” And as if it were the most natural thing, he handed you his goggles.
You felt them in your palm, warm from proximity to his skin. Your inner voice of reason was screaming that you don’t have the time … but you didn’t listen, unable to stop yourself from taking in the sight of Tech’s face unencumbered by his ever-present goggles.
“Problem?” he asked, raising a brow at you before flicking his gaze to your palm and back again.
“N-No, no problem.” Hastily, you tugged at the strands, not caring if they broke where they were snagged. Once free, you carefully pulled the remnants out and offered the goggles back to their owner. “Just … never thought I’d see you without these.”
You could feel your face heating up, even more so once Tech’s vision was restored, worried he could see. Whatever confidence you found a bit ago was gone, as was the intimate moment. Probably for the best. So, you turned to make your way out of the closet, set on getting to that rendezvous point without further embarrassment … only to be stopped yet again by Tech’s hand around you.
“And?”
You furrowed your brows in confusion, which deepened when Tech moved even closer.
“What do you think of the sight?”
Two heartbeats. That was how long it took you to decide, to seize the moment he was offering. Your hands slid up, over his shoulders to pull yourself more surely against him, biting your lip slightly as you felt him respond in kind, his hand moving up to gently cup the back of your head. He pulled you to him but stopped just shy of your goal.
You surged forward, closing the space definitively and sighing at the delightful press of his lips against yours. His arms tightened around you almost instantly, and Tech deepened the kiss without hesitation or restraint as his tongue danced along yours and stole your breath.
Much too soon for your liking, he pulled back. “I am afraid we are rather out of time for our present activities.” If you didn’t have your chest pressed to his, you’d never have known how labored his breathing was. The knowledge sunk deep, warming you from your core and spurring you on.
Tilting your chin, you gained just enough room to speak against his mouth. “Don’t apologize. You can make up for the interruption later.”
A shiver ran through you at the feel of Tech’s smile against your own. And for what you believe was the very first time, he didn’t answer you in words.
a/n: this is the sixteenth fic for my advent calendar and my excuse to shamelessly picture tech with a chef's hat.
When you asked Tech if he wanted to make broken chocolate with you, you didn't expect him to go into full Chocolatier mode.
But then again - it was Tech. What else did you expect?
And that is how you're standing here in your kitchen. While he even chose to wear an apron and a chef's hat, you're lucky you found a similar pair of socks to wear in the morning.
"You know that making broken chocolate isn't a piece of art?" you ask him, a little bit stunned. Even though you think he is slightly overdressed, you still have to admit that he looks absolutely cute with his hat.
"Yes, it is. The chocolate can't get too hot. Otherwise, it won't taste good. And it won't have that beautiful shimmer. On the other hand, the chocolate can not be too cold, or it will be too liquid and the swirls won't look good," he explains, carefully helping you to unwrap some of the chocolate bars and placing them on the baking tray.
"I pre-heated the oven already. That means we won't have to wait for so long until everything is melted," he informs you, going to work right after and putting the tray in the hot oven.
You aren't surprised as he even pulls a thermometer out of his apron's pocket and puts the one end next to the chocolate while he sticks the other end with the small display to the door.
"Have you already thought about how your chocolate pieces will look like?" you ask him, turning around and scanning all the different ingredients you took out of the cabinet while he was dressing up.
"I rather thought about how it will taste. I wanted to put some freeze-dried strawberries and raspberries on it, with a breeze of finely chopped nuts. And maybe, in the end, I have to try and put some salted sticks to a single corner. Wrecker said I should try that, but I am not sure about it, and, admittedly, confused about his preference of a sweet and salty mixture of a snack," he says, putting his thumb and a finger on his chin while thinking. "What about you?"
"Oh, I don't know yet. Maybe I'll try some sprinkles and edible glitter. Or I could make a snowman!" you think aloud, shrugging your shoulders in the end.
"Excellent idea. I think it will look perfectly fine," he encourages you while going over to the oven again, looking at the thermometer.
After some minutes, he pulls out the tray again, placing it carefully on the counter.
"Here," he says, giving you a toothpick and starting to make some swirls, mixing the light and the dark chocolate together.
You do the same, careful that the white chocolate doesn't get too many dark swirls. After that, both of you silently start to decorate your halves of the tray, and while Tech's side is starting to look very tasty and unbelievably pretty, you feel like a unicorn pooped on yours. Maybe -just maybe- it was too much glitter.
Nevertheless, it's about the taste and not about how it looks. You keep telling yourself, at least trying not to let yourself bring down your mood.
Tech looks like he's enjoying himself, and you wouldn't bring his mood down by saying how unsatisfied you are with your side, either.
After quite some time, during which you started to get demotivated by the minute, Tech finally finishes too and happily looks down at his and your creation.
"Now, we just have to let it cool down," he explains, putting the tray in the fridge.
As soon as he turns around, your moroseness fades as quickly as it came.
On his cheek, Tech has some chocolate smeared around, which makes you grin widely.
Before he can even ask why you're grinning like a madman, you almost jump him.
"Taste test!" you laugh airily, licking a wet stripe across his cheek, "cleaning" the chocolate off his face.
Immediately, a sweet taste mixed with the flavor of berries and hazelnuts carries across your tongue. Tech's decision to add those ingredients really was a good one.
"How does it taste?" he asks, a little bit confused.
"Hm... You're sweet like ever. With a little bit of chocolate flavor," you smirk, wiping your sleeve across his cheek carefully. You enjoy the pink shimmer that paints his cheeks, placing a last small kiss on them.
Warnings: SFW, fluff, brushing/braiding a person’s hair, insecurity with unruly hairdo
Summary: With your hair usually tied up in a bun or stuffed into a helmet, Tech is caught staring after you leave the clouded dewiness of the ‘fresher, struggling to tame the draping river of hair that sprouts from your head. Noticing that you’re in need, Tech nobly lends a hand that constructively launches a flourishing bond between you both.
Read on ao3 & wattpad - about 1k words
Masterlist - My kofi ✨
With Echo and Hunter in the cafeteria while Crosshair and Wrecker restock their munitions at the armory, it leaves you some free time to pamper yourself in the privacy of the ship instead of resorting to the invasive wrath of public showers. Tech lingered behind when his brothers departed, appreciative of the peace that the quietness of the hull offers when you stroll out of the shower.
“Whew! I thought I was going to suffocate in there!” A cloud of steam plumes into the confined space of the ship, abruptly startling Tech who is absorbed by routine diagnostics. He glances up at you from his datapad, staggering through a double-take when he notices your hair blanketed like a waterfall across your shoulders. He’s never once seen it in it’s natural entirety before, seized by the way the light catches the dampened and glossy waves. “Do you think we could figure out a way to have better ventilation in there?”
“I’m afraid not without compromising the integrity of central pressurization whilst flying through unstable atmospheres.” Tech shakes off the initial stun to focus on answering your question with his usual informative inflection.
“Oh well. I can put up with a little humidity in order to get clean.” You state while gently blotting and squeezing sections of your hair with the towel. The drenched weight drags your head down, craning your neck to reach all portions.
“My apologies. We would have to keep the panel sealed even in hyperspace. It would render the lavatory inoperable.” He follows you attentively to explain himself further, feeling culpable for this minor inconvenience of yours.
“It’s fine Tech. Really. I was just thinking out loud.” You insist, searching for your brush to begin tackling the disorderly nest atop your head.
“Ah. Very well then.” He pivots on his heels to start back to his post but he stops short of his jaunt when he studies the tedious methods of detangling your hair. Your clean, natural essence closely resembles one of his most favorite fragrances he’s ever come across in his entire span of life, imploring him to have a passionate inclination towards you before he even knew it. Tech watches you gather the bottom few inches that sway about your hips in your hand, vigorously running the bristles through the segment. With how extensive your hair is, you have to repeat this procedure until you can run your fingers through with ease. Tech peers in and you spot his intrigued gaze appear at the bottom corner of the smudged mirror secured to the wall. “Might you require assistance?”
“I’m fine. I do this all the time.” Tech watches you wince as you finish your passive declaration, making note of the needless pain you’re unintentionally inflicting upon yourself.
“Being used to something doesn’t make it any less difficult.” Tech advances towards you, his steady footfalls tapping against the echoing metal floor and you’re crippled by his alluring yet thoughtful approach. “Allow me.” He muses, holding his hand out for your brush. You shrug, filled with gratitude that your already sore arms won’t have to become even more strained.
Tech takes it from your grasp to try his hand at tending to your tresses, operating with a timid clemency as he traverses through the presumed motions, accidentally snagging a few tangles at first. “Ouch!” You involuntarily wail, hunching yourself forward to dodge another one of his strokes.
“Forgive me! That was not my intention!” He jumps at your exclamation and tries to surrender the brush, reluctant of causing you further suffering. “I suppose I must have yanked on a knot...”
“No, I’m just tender-headed is all. It happens! Here, let me show you.” Twisting your torso, you take the handle of the brush and press the frayed side to your locks, demonstrating the technique you want Tech to emulate. He watches assiduously in comprehension before duplicating the dynamics himself.
The tickles of Tech’s grasp starts from the bottom just as yours did, not moving up until the portion he’s focused on can yield to his lean fingers effortlessly. He continues doing this, gradually dragging from your crown to the tips of your fringe in one fell swoop. “Don’t hesitate to alert me if I happen to maim you again.”
“Nonsense, you’re doing great! It feels good actually. Relaxing...” Your eyes drift down to slits as you immerse yourself into the serenity of his touch, extensive sighs to advertise the luxury of this exchange while you lean back into Tech.
“It certainly is striking.” He acknowledges, petting your head to capture the newly softened texture your hair has evolved to. With every pass, he enhances it with a courteous massage of your scalp, privy to your prior sensitivity.
“Uhm, pardon?” You confide in him coyly.
“Your hair. Why don’t you let it down more often?” Tech elaborates while using both hands to genially push your dampened tufts behind your ears to shape your cherub face, beaming at your reflection.
“Oh!” Well, it suppose that’s because it’s always in the way...” Your voice dwindles, humbly admitting to the age-old excuse you tell yourself when concealing your indomitable mop.
“It’s up to you, of course, but I wouldn’t mind doing this for you in our down time between missions.” Tech decrees.
“You would honestly take the time out of your busy schedule to brush my hair?” You attempt to respond, fighting against a cracked whimper that threatens to broadcast the heartfelt affect this proposition has on you.
“If that is what you wish.” He devoutly pledges without a second thought.
“Could I maybe... teach you how to braid?” You optimistically recommend.
“You know I’m a fast learner.”
“Thank you, Tech. I would appreciate that.”
“Why don’t we start now?” He eagerly suggests and you smile broadly, walking him through the elaborate steps to gracefully weave your hair.
An Archive of Our Own, a project of the
Organization for Transformative Works
Just posed another fic in my AO3 series Bones and the Batch. This time it's just a quick little drabble. OFC x Tech if you squint.
What's in the Box?
Status: Complete
Wordcount: 2,167
Summary: On the hunt for some medical supplies, Bones finds a strange box that no one has seen before. Where did it come from and what could be inside?
Summary: From the ask found here; You were recently made a jedi knight and as your first assignment, you were placed with Clone Force 99. A sleepless night on the Marauder turns into late nights watching Tech work.
Warnings: A ton of fluff!!! Brief mentions of insomnia?
Notes: Thank you for the request and I'm sorry it took so long!! As a reminder, requests are open if you'd like to make one!
Word Count: ~2.1k
Tags: @lady-violet @booksandtitts-blog
Let me know if you'd like to be tagged in future fics!
It hadn't been long since you had gone through the trials to become a Jedi Knight. With the war in full swing, there was a need for knights more than ever, so while you didn't feel ready, you were able to pass.
You were given your first assignment almost immediately following your appointment. You were to accompany a squad of clones on their missions.
It was easier than being assigned to an entire battalion, but when you heard some of the other clones' comments about the squad you were assigned to, you began to feel anxious.
Clone Force 99 had a reputation of not following the rules and doing things their own way. They weren't like the clones you had gotten to know during your time as a padawan, and that intimidated you – not that you'd let anyone know.
On the day you were meant to meet them, you stood in wait on the landing platform in front of the Jedi temple. They were late. You sighed to yourself and did everything you could to avoid pacing. In fact, you could almost hear your former master's voice echoing in your head, telling you to be patient.
Finally, you saw their ship approach. It landed on the platform rather harshly but by now you were just ready to meet them, rather than criticize their flying ability.
When the four of them disembarked their ship, you had to do a double take. Not only did their reputation define them as unlike most clones, but so did their appearance.
You looked at each of them from right to left, starting at the tallest one.
"You must be the new general!" He said, his voice echoing across the platform.
"Oh no, I'm no general, just a jedi," you corrected. "What can I call you?"
He grinned, "Wrecker."
"Nice to meet you, Wrecker." You told him, then looked at the next one, the one with a tattoo covering half of his face.
"Hunter." He informed you before you could ask. "What should we call you? If you're not a general."
"You can call me by my name." You told him before providing them your name.
The next clone looked down at you with a sour expression on his face. A crosshair tattoo adorned his right eye, and a toothpick was slotted between his lips.
"And you are?" You asked.
"Crosshair."
He said nothing else, instead just stared at you before your attention shifted to the final clone.
"I'm Tech." He said before you could ask, adjusting the goggles he wore.
Your gaze lingered on him longer than you had intended, before you looked away, growing embarrassed.
It wasn't like you to be bashful, and yet looking at Tech seemed to erase any confidence you had. You didn't speak; all you could do was give him a small smile and a nod before Hunter spoke up again.
"Now that we've been introduced, I'm sure that you have questions."
"I've heard reports about your squad, how much of it is true?"
"Hah! All of it, I bet!" Wrecker said, a bit too enthusiastically.
"Depends on what you've heard." Hunter added.
"I have read the reports that come through regarding our squad. Most of them are accurate," Tech began, then held up his datapad to gesture to the reports he had available. "However, some disciplinary reports come through with slight embellishments. We do not start every fight."
"Usually finish them, though." Crosshair adds in with a shrug.
"Despite the reports, you will face no difficulty to fulfill your duties, and we will ensure your safety remains a priority."
You smiled at Tech's reassuring tone, and soon the others started boarding the ship once again.
"If that was your only question, c'mon up, we'll give you the tour." Hunter offered as he walked up the ramp. You followed after him with Tech following behind you.
– – –
Your first night in the Marauder was strange, and unfortunately, sleepless.
You could never fall asleep comfortably in a new place. You had this problem as long as you could remember. It was a hindrance on all the planets you visited with your master as a padawan, he had tried to teach you meditation techniques to help with insomnia, and you used them, but the unknown always kept you awake.
You used to joke about how it was residual anxiety from when you were first brought to the temple as a toddler, but the council was not very pleased when they heard that joke.
After giving up on your meditation, you decided to roam the ship silently. You exited your bunk and walked through the empty corridor, now much more quiet than it had been when you were first shown around. The only sound that could be heard was the hum of the engine and the muffled snores of one of the clones.
You walked toward the cockpit and the door wooshed open, revealing that you were not the only one still awake.
Tech turned around in the pilot's chair to see who was there, and he raised an eyebrow when he noticed it was you.
"It is late, you should be asleep." He chided.
"What about you?" You countered.
"I am often awake much later than the others, this is the best time to focus on any tasks I need to complete."
It sounded like he was hinting that he'd prefer to be alone right now, so you turned back toward the door.
"You do not have to leave, if you do not wish to."
You looked over your shoulder. "I thought you wanted silence?"
"Yes, however you are much more quiet than my brothers. You are welcome to stay."
A smile tugged at your lips, and you crossed the cockpit, sitting down in the co-pilot seat next to him. He was typing into his datapad, and there were open crates next to him.
"Inventory." He explained, noticing you raising your eyebrow. "I am just about finished."
After a few moments, he turned and closed the crate before standing up to put it back where it belonged.
When he sat back down in the chair, he swivelled the chair to face you.
"So, why are you still awake?"
You shrugged, "I've always had a hard time sleeping in new locations."
"Is that not difficult considering you are a jedi?"
"Only when I go to new planets. It's not like I never sleep, I'm just most comfortable with places I know."
"I suppose that makes sense. Eventually, you will get accustomed to the ship."
He turned back toward the console and began to tinker with some of the panels, unscrewing the plates and fixing the wiring beneath them.
You watched him as he worked. Your eyes trailing from his hands delicately holding the tools he needed, toward his arms; his armor had been discarded so you could see the way that his undersuit wrapped around his muscles– he looked much stronger without his armor, and eventually up to his face; his look of concentration behind the goggles he wore, his lips pressed in a firm line.
You were mesmerized watching him work. There was something about him that was so inviting and comforting. You wanted to get to know him better, but you weren't sure how that would be possible.
As you continued to watch him, you didn't notice yourself beginning to drift off to sleep in the co-pilot chair. The engine humming and the quiet whir of the hydrospanner must have lulled you into a place of comfort. Tech glanced over at you once, noticing your arm perched on the armrest, holding your face in your hand, your eyes closed, and your breathing steady.
He quietly said your name, checking if you had really fallen asleep, and when you didn't answer, he smiled slightly to himself before standing up. He gently scooped you into his arms and brought you back to your bunk.
– – –
Late nights spent with Tech had slowly become the norm during your time with Clone Force 99.
Even after you had gotten used to life on the Marauder, it had just become a habit to sit with Tech as he worked long after his brothers had gone to sleep.
Tech didn't question it, he seemed to enjoy being able to ramble on about his latest projects, even if he had to take a break from them on several occasions to bring you to your bed after you had fallen asleep in the chair next to him.
One evening, you had left your bunk and stopped at the caf machine before making your way to the cockpit.
You left a mug in front of Tech before sitting down next to him with yours in hand.
"Oh, thank you." He said, reaching out and eagerly sipping the hot beverage. He glanced over to you, noticing the mug in your hand. "You do not wish to be carried back to your bunk this evening?"
You felt your face heat up slightly. You were mortified when he told you about that, and the fact that it had happened multiple times, and it had never become less embarrassing. His teasing tone did not do well to ease your embarrassment.
"Really, I do not mind," He said, a smirk tugging at his lips.
You shook your head and took a drink from your cup without answering him.
Silence soon overtook the room. You looked out the viewport, watching the stars as they passed, and Tech continued drilling into a panel, fixing something that likely wasn't even malfunctioning to begin with.
He said your name, pulling you from your thoughts, and when you looked over at him, his focus remained with what he was working on.
"I have been wondering. Are you still uncomfortable being here?"
"What do you mean?"
"You had told me that you had trouble sleeping until you were comfortable, and you still spend most nights out here despite the time in which you have spent with us." He looked over at you now. His expression was new to you. His normal confident demeanor had seemed almost sad. There was something in his eyes that you couldn't quite place. "If you are not comfortable, you can request a transfer. None of us would be offended."
You offered him a reassuring smile. "I don't want to transfer, Tech. I'm comfortable here."
His eyebrows furrowed slightly. "You are?"
"Of course. Why do you think I fall asleep so easily out here? You make me feel comfortable and safe."
His head snapped back to what he was tinkering with, trying to hide his flushed face from you.
After a moment, he spoke again. "I see. I am glad for that, then. It would have been... regrettable if you had chose to leave."
You raised an eyebrow. "Why is that?"
His jaw clenched slightly. You could feel the tension as soon as you asked, but eventually, he sighed.
"I just meant that I would feel responsible if, after all this time, we did not make you feel welcome." His tone was resigned, and you knew there was something hiding behind it.
Part of you had hoped that what he was hiding was in line with what you had felt since the first time you had met him, and you figured now was as good a time as any to finally talk about it.
"Tech." You began. You could feel your heart pounding in your chest, but you did all you could yo avoid focusing on your anxieties. "I don't think either of us are very good at this, if I had to take a guess. But I... Enjoy spending time with you, I have ever since the first night I spent here. I would not choose to leave the squad, I wouldn't choose to leave you."
He stared at you wide-eyed. This may be the only time that you'd see Tech completely speechless.
In his silence, you stood from your chair, setting your mug down on the console and quietly stepping toward him.
You reached out a hand, gently resting it on his cheek and tilting his head up to look at you before you moved in and kissed him softly.
His hands hesitated before one of them held your free hand, squeezing it gently as he deepened the kiss.
You smirked at him. "Maybe it's a good thing that I was placed with your squad then. You don't follow rules either."
Before long, he broke the kiss but stared up at you, finally speaking, "I did not know you felt as such. I thought that the jedi had... rules to follow, that they could not..."
