Curate, connect, and discover
Word Count: 2.1k Pairing: One excerpt for each of the boys Warnings: Nada Anon requested the Batch reacting to you saying, "I'm so stupid! Seriously, how can you stand to be around someone like this?" So here we go
You'd made another mistake, adding to the already colossal pile of ones you'd made recently. And worse, your whole team lay witness to the most recent. Upon landing for refuel, everyone besides you took the opportunity to stretch their legs. Everyone else except for one.
"You shouldn't let it get to you." They said, seeing that you were clearly still upset. "Just let it go."
In a burst of misdirected frustration you snapped at them, "I'm so stupid. Seriously, how can you stand to be around someone like this?!" You stormed off towards the ship's exit.
Tech
Tech watched you slump against the Marauder’s step. Your elbows were resting on your knees while your head hung between your shoulders. A quick shake ran through you, a suppressed heave marked only by the fast motion.
Gripping his datapad tighter, Tech considered what to do. This was an irregular response from you and not one he necessarily knew how to navigate. But he was certain of one thing.
Tucking his datapad away, Tech descended the stairs and took up a seat next to you.
You were quick to duck your head into your hands, but not quick enough for Tech to miss the wet streaks staining your face. Turning his eyes forward, Tech afforded you what little privacy the situation allowed.
The technician rubbed his hands over his thighs, preparing himself one last time before saying, “It is not unusual for one to become frustrated with one’s flaws and mistakes.”
One might describe that sound you made as a choked laugh, others may have called it a sob. Which it was, Tech could not say for sure.
“Flaws and mistakes.” You parroted in a cracked voice. “Two things I’m full of.”
Tech glanced at you from the corner of his eye. “Yes. As all humans are.” Your answer, another strangled sound, gave Tech pause. Running his hands over his thighs in another soothing motion, he clutched his knees. His attempts at helping were clearly doing the opposite.
Maybe if he tried another approach… “By chance, do you know the definition of ‘stupid?’” Tech asked.
On an exasperated sigh, you lifted your head to finally turn your tear stained, blotchy face to Tech. “Lacking knowledge and making mistakes.”
Tech made a thoughtful hum and pivoted slightly to face you. “You are partially correct. However the complete definition would be ‘having a lack of intelligence or common sense.’”
You blinked before giving an empty shrug and scoffing. “How is that any different?”
Tech bit the inside of his cheek, this topic was quickly putting him out of his depth. But he wanted to help - to see you happy and sure of yourself again.
Clearing his throat, Tech looked away momentarily as he asked. “Do you find me intelligent?”
“Of course.” You replied without pause.
Turning to face you again, Tech hummed, “Well, I am currently struggling to comfort you at this moment.” He rolled one shoulder in a half shrug. “Some might surmise that is a result of lacking common sense and, by definition, that would make me stupid.”
“Tech you are not stupid.” Your tone was defensive, almost offended that Tech would insinuate such a thing.
“Neither are you.” He retaliated.
You blinked once, then twice, and a wobbly smile cracked to the surface. “Thank you, Tech.”
Tech smiled, patting your shoulder before using you as support to stand up. “It is something I am happy to remind you of in the future, should you need it.”
Wrecker
Wrecker trailed after you, taking steps two at a time to cut your path short. You stood on the last step, eyes cast downwards and shoulders shaking. Wrecker’s heart ached as he realized you were trying so hard not to cry.
“Hey, hey.” He said as took your hand in his. As he feared, even your hand was shaking. Wrecker knelt to the ground, gently guiding you down with him. “What’s all this all of the sudden?”
You blinked, attempting to keep back the tears, but it didn’t stop the sob to come. “I’m sorry.” Your voice warbled. Shaking your head, you kept your gaze lowered. “I can’t even keep it together.”
The large man extended a hand to tilt your chin up with a knuckle, but you still refused to meet his gaze. Wrecker took his knuckle and brushed away a few tears only for more to take their place.
“You’re not stupid.” Wrecker said firmly.
Unconvinced, you whispered back, “You’re my friend- you have to say that.”
“Oh, no I don’t.” Wrecker twisted on his heals, pivoting to get in your sights and finally pull your watery attention to him. When you met his gaze a wide grin spread across Wrecker’s face complimented by a wink. “I’m saying it because I know it.” Bouncing on the balls of his feet, Wrecker got to his feet and extended a hand, palm up, to you
“Besides,” Wrecker started saying in a light tone, wiggling his fingers in invitation to you. Rolling your eyes, you conceded and placed your hand in his. Wrecker immediately lifted you to your feet. “I like you ‘cause of the way you make me feel.” He stood on his toes to playfully whisper, “And for how pretty you are.”
You scoffed hard, giving him a light push back. The blush his compliment gave you only made your face all the redder. “Well that doesn’t make me feel better. You’re half-blind, Wrecker.”
Wrecker chuckled triumphantly. “Ha! There it is.”
“What?”
Using both hands, Wrecker held the side of your face, still damp from crying, and touched the corners of your mouth. “Your smile.”
Again, his comment made your stomach flutter. You hadn’t even realized you were smiling.
Echo
Echo caught you by your elbow, pulling you back to meet his eye.“Oh no you don’t.” He said in an almost scolding tone.
“Let go.” You grunted as you tried to pull away, but Echo held fast. Your eyes darted between his hold on you and his eyes.
Turning you to face him fully, Echo pressed on, “You can’t give up every time it gets tough.”
You recoiled. “I’m not giving up.” You were quickly going from upset to offended and Echo could see it. The situation didn’t call for the militant approach.
Echo sighed, releasing you as he did. “A bad situation got the better of you and you call yourself stupid?” The cyborg gave a disapproving shake of his head. “That’s giving up on yourself.” His call out instantly deflated what little energy you had left. Watching your shoulders drop, Echo thought to himself, Softer, soldier.
Coming to your side, Echo placed a hand on the small of your back, mumbling softly. “C’mon.” Guiding you into a chair near the nav screens, he took a seat across from you.
“Listen,” Echo’s voice was softer than usual. He leaned in to touch your knee, continuing, “Not everything is going to go well, that’s just a fact of life. But all you can do is learn and move on. So, stop beating yourself up so much.”
Somehow he was riling you up further. It was as if you were offended he would even try to challenge you on this. You leaned in sharply, hissing, “I do move on. Then I mess up and I move on and mess up again. And on and on I go with a trail of fuck ups behind me.”
“There are wins in there too.” Echo challenged, firming his grip on your knee. His hazel eyes darted between yours, his features softening as he chuckled, “Your enemies better be glad for all this self doubt of yours.” He patted your knee and leaned back in his chair.
“Why?” You asked hesitantly.
“Because if you believed in yourself half as much as I believe in you, there’s nothing you couldn’t do.”
Warmth bloomed in your chest. Your eyes fell to where his hand had been, considering what he just said. Your stomach flipped over when you met his eyes again. “You really mean that?”
“I really mean that.” He’d barely gotten the words out when your arms made it around his neck. Echo sat still, hands flared at his sides, as you nestled into you.
“I can do that.” You said into his shoulder.
Echo softly smiled, allowing his hands to rest on your back. “Do what?”
He felt you smile into his neck as you said, “Believe in me like you do.”
“That’s what I like to hear.” Echo hummed, leaning his head against yours.
Crosshair
“Oh, get over it.” Crosshair’s snarky tone stopped you mid step. Turning back, you watched him prop out a foot and put a toothpick between his lips. “Something went wrong. It happens. Moping about solves nothing..”
Your lower lip wobbled as you took him in. Tossing a hand in his direction you said, “You are good at everything you do. You’ve no idea what it’s like to be like me.”
A snarl curled Crosshair’s lip. The reaction wasn’t meant for you, but for whoever made you believe you were less. He rolled the toothpick in his mouth to one side before removing it completely.
Stepping forward, Crosshair pointed the toothpick at you and drawled, “Stop the dramatics, you’re fine the way you are.”
The realization that Crosshair was complimenting you pricked you with shame. You must look pretty pathetic for Crosshair to be pitying you. Your lips pressed into a tight line in an attempt to hold your composure. “You don’t mean that.”
Crosshair’s eyes momentarily widened. He was used to you fighting and your strong spirit. Hearing you sound so defeated - so worn down - pulled at something in him. He closed the gap between you and muttered. “I don’t lie.”
His sudden proximity caught you off guard and brought with it the smell of mint and gun oil. You couldn’t control the reflexive inhale you took. If nothing else, he did a fine job of distracting you. You were so distracted you flinched when he rested a hand on your head.
Gently, he stroked his hand over your hair. “Everyone has their moments.” A soft smirk perked his lips as he added, “Even me.”
“You’re being awfully nice.” You said softly, sounding more breathless than you had intended
Crosshair’s smirk grew. Snorting, he flicked you in the forehead. “Don’t make a big deal out of it.”
Wincing as you rubbed your forehead you asked, “Then you mean it?”
Groaning, Crosshair rolled his eyes and pulled you by the chin. “I won’t say it again.” He said gruffly. In a lighter tone he continued, “You are not stupid. You’re fine the way you are.”
The sniper paused, watching as your words sunk in. He was starting to enjoy seeing these new expressions. He just needed one more push. “Got it, sweetheart?”
His words sent a chill up your spine. A satisfied smirk settled on him as heat singed your cheeks and ears. “Much better.”
Hunter
Hunter let you go, but kept an eye on you as you made for the outskirts of camp. He knew what it was like to be mad with yourself and he knew sometimes a little space helps. Eventually you did make your way back inside.
You checked for Hunter, hoping to sneak over to the fresher without his notice. Until you were toweling off your face, you thought you’d succeeded. Until you lowered your towel, found Hunter standing a few paces away and nearly jumped out of your skin.
He raised his hands, one holding a warm cup of caf and the other holding a ration bar. “Easy there.” He chuckled warmly.
A flush crept up your neck as your earlier shame reared its head again. Twisting the towel between your hands, you nervously laughed out an apology. Nodding to the items he held, you asked, “Afternoon snack?”
Hunter didn’t answer, but smiled at you and nodded towards the bunks as he stepped back towards them. For a moment you forgot your embarrassment and followed Hunter to the bottom bunk. He put the food in your hand and gestured for you to sit. Once down, Hunter sat right up against you and put the warm cup in your free hand.
You stared at your now full hands for a few blinks before looking back at Hunter with more confusion. With a soft laugh he wrapped an arm around you. “Feeling better?”
You silently nodded in response for fear of your voice cracking.
Hunter seemed pleased, having contemplated during your absence how best to comfort you. Not one for many words, he resorted to simple gestures. “Decaf,” he mentioned, tapping the rim of your mug. “A warm drink and a bite to eat always seem to help.” He began gently rubbing your arm in a comforting rhythm.
“Hey.” Hunter’s voice dropped to a softer tone, “You’re not stupid. You do your best everyday. You might not see it, but we all do.” He gave your arm a light squeeze and added, “So, have a little more faith in yourself.”
Your eyes fell to the caf and ration bar again, your grip on the cup tightening. “And what if I keep failing?”
Hunter shook his head, “That kind of thinking doesn’t do anyone any good.” He leaned forward to catch your eyes. “All we can do is keep going and try to be better.”
Clearing the lump forming in your throat and took a sip of the warm drink. Hunter was right, the caf did help.
@baddest-batchers
Summary: The boys surprise you with a trip to your home world and a vocabulary lesson.
Pairing: The Bad Batch x medic fem!reader (pronouns she/her, no physical descriptions, no y/n, pet names)
Warnings: Crosshair, angst (not much I swear!), fluff so sweet you’ll need your dentist, sweet kisses ( the smut happens in chapter 3 😏) but MINORS DNI
Written while listening to “Tell Her You Love Her” by Echosmith
Series playlist can be found here!
Part 1 Part 3
Word count: 3132
Crosshair had been called many things in his life. Talented, cocky, aloof to name a few. No one had ever called him a coward though. It was in his very nature to look at the impossible and find a way.
The odds didn’t matter.
He and his brothers had faced forces that would have given much larger squads pause, and they’d never hesitated. Never felt like they couldn’t get the job done.
Yet there he was, stomach twisted into knots, muscles in his legs twitching with the desire to bolt, afraid. Not afraid of a battalion of clankers, rollies, and spiders.
No. He was afraid of a nat born medic, who clutched Wrecker’s arm like a lifeline during turbulence. A medic who could sew up her own wounded leg without batting an eye, but would discharge her blaster at the sight of an insect. A medic who was the epitome of soft, yet had the power to crush him in the palm of her hand.
He’d never told anyone he cared for them, nor had he asked anyone what they felt for him. Quite frankly he didn’t give a fuck. The fleeting attentions of strangers, whose names he would forget immediately, had been more than enough to scratch the well-concealed itch for a semblance of connection.
Now, you were ruining him without even trying. Punching a hole straight through his carefully crafted armor. Making him weak.
And in a few moments, depending on your reaction, you could break all five of them. Clone Force 99 could be brought to its knees by you in a single instant.
He watched his brothers as they led you towards the location Tech had chosen. Excitement radiated off of you like a sun’s rays. He would never admit it, but he was dying to be wrong this time. He wanted to believe that you could love them. That you could love him.
Blindfolded, you were unable to see the looks of hope and affection etched onto their shared features. You were simply excited for another adventure with them. Hunter’s hands rested securely on your shoulders with your hands over them.
The sergeant had woken you up upon landing with a bandana in hand.
“We’ve got a surprise for you,” he said, as you got dressed.
“Really?” you asked, mind racing as you tried to imagine what it was. It wasn’t your birthday, their decant day, or any other holiday. Not that it mattered. The fact that the five of them had formed a plan to surprise you damn near made your brain short circuit. That showed a level of care and consideration you had rarely even received from people you were seriously dating.
“Yep, gotta make sure you don’t peek though,” he said waving the bandana.
You resisted the urge to make a filthy joke about being tied up for them and instead turned so Hunter could tie the bandana on. The world went dark, and you took a nervous breath until you felt Hunter’s hands on your shoulders, and you relaxed. He would never let anything happen to you.
“Where’s my bucket?” You asked, suddenly feeling naked without it.
“You won’t need it here,” Hunter said, steering you towards the door.
“Is this some kind of initiation thing?” you asked, breaking the silence. “Testing my bravery to prove I’m one of you?”
Wrecker snorted, “That’s a pretty good idea! We could dangle you over a cliff by your ankle?”
“If I don’t scream, I’m in?” You asked with a giggle.
“Grow up, you two,” Crosshair said, and you swore you could hear him rolling his eyes.
“…yes.” Wrecker whispered in answer to your question, setting off more giggles.
“We’ve got a little hike coming up, so one of us will carry you,” Hunter said, as you all came to a stop.
Even blindfolded you knew where all of them were by their steps. You reached for Wrecker, but Hunter caught your hand.
“Wrecker’s got his hands full,” Hunter said, and you could hear a smile in his voice. It made your stomach flip with excitement.
“Ooooh, the plot thickens.” You stepped forward and instead found Tech’s shoulders, wrapping your arms around him. You made a soft noise of surprise, as he grabbed your thighs, and hoisted you off the ground easily.
“Are you comfortable?” Tech asked.
“Yes, sir,” you reply, face pressed against the side of Tech’s helmet.
You hum softly, listening to the sound of your squads’ steps, mind conjuring all sorts of fantastic scenarios for what they could have planned.
It was quiet and warm, and you could hear their boots crunching over dry ground, so you knew you weren’t on Kamino. You had been sleeping for the majority of the trip, and blindfolded before stepping off of the ship, so you couldn’t use the stars for clues.
You hummed softly as the trek continued, occasionally grinning when Wrecker would chuckle at some joke from Echo you couldn’t quite make out. You were close to beginning a round of “Are we there yet?” when Tech stopped, and slowly released his grip on your thighs.
“We have arrived at our intended destination,” he said, as you got your feet under yourself after several minutes of being carried.
Hunter removed the bandana, and you looked around. A small city twinkled in the valley below your position atop a massive hill. You looked to the rich blue night sky above, and connected the stars. Your brow furrowed a moment before the realization hit you. You were home…well, your home world. Home was the Marauder now. A lump formed in your throat, and tears pooled in your eyes.
“You brought me home?” You asked, turning to face them, smiling even as the tears poured down your face.
“We missed you, and we thought this would be a good welcome home surprise,” Echo said.
“It was Hunter’s idea,” Tech supplied.
“Oh, Hunter, this is perfect!” You wrapped your arms around his waist and rested your head against his chest. “Thank you.”
Hunter held you close a moment, before releasing you slowly to smile down at you.
“This is a pretty special spot, you know?” You asked tucking your arms behind your back and rising up on the balls of your feet.
“Yes, I selected it for that very reason. The local population has designated this as a place to share important news with loved ones,” Tech said, clearly proud of himself.
“Right as always, Tech,” you beamed at him. “Planning to share some news?”
“Actually we thought today might be a nice day to teach you some Mando’a, so you know what we’re saying to you,” Hunter said nodding towards Wrecker, who took a deep breath and stepped up to take your hands.
“Finally!” You cheered, buzzing with excitement.
A bright smile lit up your features as you looked up at him. He smiled warmly, eyes roaming your face. You’d only been gone a couple of weeks, but Wrecker had missed you fiercely every moment.
“Well, we call you ‘mesh’la’ cause it means beautiful. Easy to see why. You are beautiful inside and out,” Wrecker said before taking you gently by your arms and pressing a kiss to the top of your head.
Your heart jumped and your breath hitched. You cleared your throat and said, “I knew I liked that one.”
He smiled warmly, and stepped to the side, gently guiding you to Echo, who took one of your hands next. He rested his scomplink against your waist, and you held his bicep, as you beamed expectantly at him.
“We call you ‘saraad’ because it means flower. You make every place you’re in brighter, more alive.” Echo kissed your forehead, and you felt anticipation buzzing in your chest. Your heart beat faster than before, as Tech took his place before you could even react.
“Senaar’ika means little bird. You are always eager to take flight whether you are ready or not. Brave, reckless to be certain, but brave nonetheless,” straight to the point as ever, Tech pressed a kiss to your cheek.
You released a shuddering breath, your face warming up under their gentle affections. Am I dreaming? You thought, now scared to move or speak for fear of breaking the spell they were weaving around you.
Hunter hesitated only a moment before resting a hand on your waist, as the other cupped your cheek, his thumb rubbing soothingly over your cheekbone. Your eyes met his, as you placed your hands on his chest and held your breath.
“‘Cyare’ is one you’ve heard more and more lately. The closest word in basic is beloved,” Hunter said, and you knew he’d heard your heart skip a beat before racing away.
“You’re special to us, and we want to keep you close…closer,” Hunter took a deep breath, his warm brown eyes held yours. “We’ve fallen for you, and we hope that’s ok. Nothing has to change if you don’t want it to.”
“You’ve fallen for me? I-, I…I can’t even…” you stammered, simultaneously thrilled and confused. You took a deep breath, lifting one hand to rest over his against your face, the other sliding up to caress his face.
“Is it ok, if I kiss you now?” He asked. You nodded immediately.
He smiled and leaned down to press his lips to yours. You didn’t wake up. His arm wrapped around your waist, and you knew it was real. He pulled back and pressed his forehead to yours.
“Been wanting to do that for awhile now,” he confessed.
“That makes two of us…or maybe 6 of us,” you said with a nervous laugh.
You’d thought of no less than a dozen different scenarios when Hunter had blindfolded you, but you never imagined this could be a possibility. Not even in your wildest dreams did you allow yourself to believe that the 5 amazing men standing before you could care for you the way you cared for them.
There’s a relieved sigh from behind Hunter, and you leaned around him to see Crosshair properly. His eyes were taking you in much like he had upon your return. Drinking you in while he figured out what to say. You looked up at Hunter, and he nodded, stepping back to give you a path to Crosshair. Taking a deep breath, you make your way towards the sniper.
For the first time since you met him, you reached for Crosshair, taking hold of him with confidence. Your eyes met his, a light smile playing on your lips.
“Any special words you wanna teach me, Crosshair?” You asked, hoping your voice was steady.
“You already know my favorite word for you. The one that’s been going through my mind since you left,” Crosshair said quietly, bringing his lips within an inch of yours.
“And what word would that be?” you asked, moving closer to let your lips brush his.
“Mine,” he said before closing the distance between you, kissing you with relief. The first kiss had been almost hesistant, as a part of him was sure he was stealing affection that wasn’t meant for him. But it was meant for him. You wanted him…all of them. You weren’t running away or pulling back. You were in his arms, holding him close like he belonged to you.
Wrecker cleared his throat noisily, and Crosshair broke the kiss to give him a look.
“Just for that, you can go last,” Crosshair sneered, guiding you towards Tech, who pulled you close and let his arms settle comfortably around your waist. Just like before your arms rested over his shoulders, this time your fingers carded gently through his hair.
“I hope that you will be willing to answer a few questions for me, senaar’ika. I have been compiling data for quite some time, and despite today’s success, I still have some theories to test in order to draw definitive conclusions.”
“I’ll indulge your experiments, if you’ll indulge mine,” you said with a mysterious little smile.
“Well, of course, I am more than happy to assist in the pursuit of knowledge,” Tech replied. Happy with your response he leaned in to brush his lips softly over yours. You whined, wanting more, and he pressed closer, letting you feel his need for you. Tech’s kiss was just like him, a curious exploration that left you giddy.
He pulled back, and opened his mouth to say more, but Wrecker cut him off, “Maker, Tech, you can talk her ear off later. We’ve still got another thing to give her!”
“Despite the rudeness of his delivery, Wrecker is correct. We do have another surprise for you,” Tech said, releasing you slowly, as Echo moved close to pull you into his arms.
“I almost slipped up and kissed you last night, so I may need to make up for that,” Echo said, before kissing you slow and deep. You were so sure your heart was actually going to break its way out of your ribcage if they kept going at this rate.
“Stars, Echo, I can think of a few more things for you to make up,” you said breathlessly, as he pulled back with a grin.
“Finally!” Wrecker said, spinning you around and scooping you up into his arms to press the softest kiss of all to your lips. He handled you with such care and affection, you couldn’t help but sigh happily against his lips.
“Kriff me, if I’d known this would happen, I’d have left sooner,” you said with a laugh, as Wrecker set you back down on your feet.
“Well, no more running off to help Cody because we missed you too much,” Wrecker said, caressing your face gently.
“I promise I won’t be doing that again for quite some time,” you confessed.
“Good, because Cross here, was worse than usual,” Hunter teased.
Crosshair scowled and folded his arms. “Just tell her the next surprise.”
“You belong with us no matter what, so Crosshair gave your helmet a little update,” Echo said from just beyond Wrecker, where Hunter and Tech had set up a fire, and a tent. You suspected that’s what had kept Wrecker’s hands full.
Echo straightened up and passed you your bucket. You looked down at it, and a smile slowly spread across your face. A tiny skull and a 99 now adorned your helmet like a kiss on the cheek.
“Cross, you did this for me?” You asked, turning to the sniper. It was difficult to tell in the low light, you could have sworn he was blushing.
“We thought you might like it,” Hunter said.
“I love it.”
***
The six of you gathered around a happily crackling fire, as you finally answered all of their questions about your time away. Crosshair watched you with rapt attention, appreciating all of your little quirks, as you discussed the missions you’d participated in, including the one that had resulted in your injury.
“Still pissed you got shot. Not surprised though. That always happens with regs,” Wrecker said, tightening his hold on your waist, as he held you to his side.
“Hey!” Echo said, leaning around you and gesturing to himself. “I’d never let her get shot.”
“You know I don’t mean you, Echo,” Wrecker said dismissively.
“It’s just a scratch, boys,” you laughed. “There’s barely even a scar.”
“We sent you to Commander Cody with no scratches, and we expected you to come back in the same condition,” Crosshair said gesturing at you with a toothpick.
“Though I would have chosen a less objectifying way to phrase it, I agree with Crosshair,” Tech said, looking up from his datapad. “I would have thought you would be in excellent hands with our Marshal Commander, and not in a position to take damage from a sniper.”
“Awwww, did Cody let your favorite toy get all scuffed? You want a new one?” You asked with a teasing lilt to your voice.
Crosshair shook his head slowly. Tech looked offended at the suggestion.
“And have to break in another one?” Hunter interjected. “No way. You’re stuck with us now.”
“Oh no,” you gasped in mock anguish. “Whatever shall I do? Stuck with my favorite people in the galaxy. Torture.”
You draped yourself dramatically over Wrecker’s legs, much to his amusement. His hearty laughter rumbled out of his chest, as he pulled you close to his chest, so you were sitting in his lap.
“Your favorite people? In the whole galaxy?” He asked, his mismatched eyes full of hope as they focused on yours.
“Absolutely. You have been for awhile,” you confessed. “I hated being away from all of you.” You looked around the fire at each of them before bringing your focus back to Wrecker. “I mean it. I don’t wanna do that again for a good long while.”
Satisfied, Wrecker cupped your face and brought his lips to yours again. Your eyes fluttered closed, and you felt yourself relax against him. His lips moved over yours with a gentle confidence that made you hum low in your throat, and press closer to him.
You broke the kiss, as a yawn forced its way out of you. You were still absolutely exhausted. The thrill of their confession had given you the sweetest sugar high, and you were crashing.
“You require rest,” Tech said, “I will take first watch.”
“I’ll take it,” Crosshair said, shooting a glance at Hunter, who had covered him the night before. He’d gotten you all to himself for several hours, and he knew the others were itching to snuggle with you. He was too relieved to be selfish. For now.
You stood up and stretched, reaching for the sky you’d grown up under before wandering over to Crosshair and kneeling down to press a soft kiss to his lips.
“Come snuggle with me soon,” you whispered.
He nodded, as he watched you rise and make your way into the tent.
“We’ll keep you company, Cross,” Wrecker said with a grin, as Tech and Echo followed you into the tent, and Hunter relaxed on his back to look up at the stars.
“Oh goody,” the sniper replied with a halfhearted roll of his eyes.
***
You’d worried it would be awkward, but going to sleep between Tech and Echo felt as natural as breathing. Echo spooned up behind you, your face against Tech’s chest. The three of you chatted quietly for a little while, while their hands moved over your body absently.
You began to drift in and out of consciousness, despite your desire to stay awake and enjoy their presence.
“Sleep, saraad,” Echo commanded gently. “We’ll all be here in the morning.”
“Promise?” You asked sleepily, as you nuzzled against Tech.
“Promise,” He said, wrapping his arm around your waist.
Warm and safe, you left yourself drift away.
tagging: @secondaryrealm @dystopicjumpsuit @iamburdened @sunshinesdaydream @mythical-illustrator @the1sunshine1girl @stardusthuntress @thebahdbitch @wings-and-beskar @arctrooper69 @golden-nyx-ghost @iloveallmenandwomen @rexxdjarin @sleepingsun501 @starrylothcat @ladyzirkonia @pb-jellybeans @clio3kantarella @staycalmandhugaclone @ceraryn09 @skellymom @808tsuika
Hello friend! I couldn't find any rules for requests on your blog, so hopefully this one's okay, and if not feel free to ignore it!
Would you be okay with doing a little something based on the idea that all five of the bad batch boys realize that they're all in love with their medic reader? Like maybe they all just KNOW that their other brothers feel the same way about the reader and what they do about it? Do they all talk it over in private? do they just silently start trying to one up each other as a secret competition for her heart? Do they maybe go to the reader themselves instead? Or maybe they decide sharing is caring?? I'd love to hear your take on this concept, headcanons or a fic or whatever you're inspired to do with this idea it's all fine by me!
Please and thank you and also I hope you have a good weekend 💗
I have had the BEST time with this ask, and I hope you love it. This is deffo one I could write about from different angles all day long. I love the boys, but they provide more inspiration than I know what to do with, so this is only part 1 😬 if you had something else in mind, don’t hesitate to let me know. you know I’m always down to write about the boys 🥰
The Bad Batch x afab!Reader
warnings: mention of injury, nothing graphic, poly no clonc*st, Crosshair pining 👀
Part 2
word count: 3721 (*self control left the chat*)
The Havoc Marauder was never quiet, and now was no exception. Wrecker’s snores, Tech’s tinkering, Echo’s quiet muttering in his sleep, the barely audible sounds of Hunter fiddling with his knife. But there was a hole of silence in the quilt of sound, and it was shaped like you. It’s been 15 rotations, not that Crosshair’s counting, without your laugh ringing out, without your back popping loudly as you stretched when you woke up, without your voice whispering his name, as you sleepily let him know it was his turn on watch.
The five of them had been together, and they’d never needed or wanted anyone else in their space, on their team. Crosshair hadn’t even wanted you around at first. Wrecker had warmed to you quickly, but of course a pretty thing like you would never need the hard sell with Wrecker. Hunter had been wary of you, but in an effort to keep Wrecker from getting too attached, he’d inadvertently formed his own attachment to your presence. As for Tech and Echo, they’d kept their distance well enough, but your quiet intelligence, and curiosity had drawn them in.
Crosshair had been the holdout. Incensed by every breath you drew in his presence. The way you checked in with him after every mission, as if he needed you poking and prodding him. But when he needed stitches, you’d asked for permission to help him. If he didn’t want you to touch him, you wouldn’t.
“I’d never do anything without your consent. You’re in control here,” you’d said, holding your kit in steady hands, as you waited for his decision. He’d watched you with rapt attention through the mirror, your fingers resting gently against his skin, as you carefully cleaned, stitched up, and bandaged the wound on his shoulder.
After that, he would silently request your assistance when he needed it, and over time even when he didn’t need it. He would never say it out loud, but bacta patches placed by your gentle hands worked better. Your stitches were nearly painless. And the way you’d hum while you worked…well, that was just adorable.
When Commander Cody had requested you for a short stint, Wrecker had grumbled endlessly, and Crosshair had been the first to tell him to suck it up because you’d be back in their hair soon enough. He needed the space to clear his head, and he hoped the others would come to their senses without you in their presence.
Wrecker admitted to missing you within 12 hours. Tech kept finding excuses to talk about you. Meanwhile Hunter and Echo kept pointing out things you would like, and setting them aside for you. They had also placed bets on when Crosshair would snap and march onto the Negotiator to steal you back. Not that they would be upset if he did.
When it became clear that Crosshair would rather eat his armor than admit to being the least bit interested in you, the four of them had dragged him into the cockpit to decide what they would do when you returned. The feelings were there, and they weren’t going anywhere, but how to proceed.
“We should just come out and say it!” Wrecker said, feeling like the matter was concluded.
“It needs to be a tad more romantic than that,” Echo said shaking his head.
“According to my observations of her, she would appreciate a romantic gesture,” Tech said.
“Flowers?” Wrecker offered.
“She deserves more than flowers for putting up with us,” Echo said laughing.
“We could make a stop on her home world. It’s not too far out of the way,” Hunter added. “I think she’d like that.”
“This is a waste of time,” Crosshair said rolling his eyes. “You’re fooling yourselves.”
“When have Hunter’s senses ever been wrong?” Tech asked not even bothering to look up. “According to what he’s told me, she’s at the very least physically attracted to us. Based on her behavior that extends to an emotional bond as well.”
“What happened to not getting attached?” Crosshair challenged, and his brothers all looked at each other before looking back at him.
“You know you’re not as subtle as you think, Crosshair,” Echo said.
“And if I can tell how anyone’s feeling, it’s the four of you,” Hunter added.
“You’re all delusional,” Crosshair said shaking his head.
“You had her put a bacta patch on your arm last mission, and you coulda done it yourself,” Wrecker said giving the sniper a playful shove.
“She is our medic, she should at least pretend to do a job around here,” Crosshair said defensively. It was a losing battle, and he knew it. The others were blissfully under your spell, but he was not about to let you hurt him. Not about to let you reject him. No matter how badly he wanted you.
But as the clock rolled into the 16th rotation without you, it was Crosshair who hated your absence more than anyone. The others were open about it in their own ways, but he held it close. It was one of the few secrets he’d kept from his brothers. The realization annoyed him, as he swung his long legs over the side of his bunk to take over on watch for Hunter.
Sensing the tension rolling off of his younger brother, Hunter cleared his throat.
“She’ll be back in 2 rotations, and you’ll get to sleep longer again.” He knew it wasn’t sleep Crosshair was after, but it was the best way to let him know you were on your way back without suggesting the sniper actually missed you lest they wind up in another argument.
“Oh good, the little doctor will be back to baby Wrecker again, and you can all confess your love, and live happily ever after,” Crosshair sneered, but Hunter knew him well. There was no bite in his tone, and his face was more relaxed than Hunter had seen it since you waved goodbye and disappeared into the Negotiator.
“She just commed to see if we could pick her up before our next mission, and I almost said no,” Hunter said absently, as Crosshair dropped into the co-pilot’s seat. It wasn’t true, but he could hear Crosshair’s heart racing, his teeth grinding in frustration.
“I thought you were dying to have her back,” Crosshair bit out.
“Well, Cody’s really wanting to keep her, and it would be a great opportunity for her,” This part was true, but he knew he shouldn’t tease his brother this way even though he was sure whatever doubt your absence hadn’t wiped out, would be obliterated by jealousy.
“Commander Cody has a squad of medics. He doesn’t need her,” Crosshair replied, scoffing. The thought of Cody trying to tempt you away from them with a Star Destroyer and a Jedi annoyed Crosshair down to his bones. You wouldn’t be swayed by a big ship, and fancy toys. Would you?
“You’ve got a point,” Hunter began before putting the last nail in the coffin. “He doesn’t need her…maybe he just wants her.”
He could hear Crosshair’s heart thumping wildly, as he tried to maintain his composure.
“Doubt it,” Crosshair grumbled after several moments spent working to unclench his jaw.
“Guess we’ll find out,” Hunter said, rising from the pilot’s chair. “The call’s recorded, so you can watch it, and see for yourself.”
“I’m sure she’ll never shut up about it when she’s back,” Crosshair said dismissively.
Humming softly with a shrug, Hunter said good night, and left Crosshair alone. The sharpshooter waited until he was sure Hunter was asleep before playing your conversation.
As your form appeared, bathed in blue, a smile tugged at Crosshair’s lips. Had you always been this beautiful?
“Hi, Sarge! It’s so good to see you. I’ve missed you boys like crazy,” you nearly moaned.
He’d never heard you make a sound like that. He immediately thought of you making that sound just for him, which annoyed him, but he couldn’t stop listening.
“We miss you too, cyar’ika. I’m sure you’re having fun though,” Hunter replied.
“It’s been nice to stretch my legs a bit and put some of the things I’ve learned to use. Commander Cody’s amazing…he’s uh, asked me if I want to stay on,” You look shy, nervous.
“Oh, is that uh, something you’re interested in?”
“Don’t get me wrong the Negotiator is spectacular, and I’ve enjoyed my time with the 212th,” you bite your lip, shifting your weight. You seem unsure if you should continue. After a moment, you pressed on, “but they’re missing a few things I can’t live without, so I’d like to come home, back to the Marauder I mean.”
“We’ll be glad to have you back,” Hunter replied.
“Good,” You look so relieved. “I haven’t stopped thinking about you boys since I left. Are you getting enough quiet time? Are Tech and Echo sleeping? Is Wreck staying out of trouble? Is Cross eating properly?”
Crosshair barely hears the rest of conversation because he can’t get past the part where you miss them, where you were worried about him.
“I’ll be all packed up and ready to go in two rotations. Do you mind coming to get me?” Your needy tone shakes Crosshair out of his thoughts. “I could get a shuttle, but it would take another rotation or two, and I don’t think I can wait that long.”
Crosshair realized he couldn’t either. He needed you back immediately. Sooner, really.
“Of course, doll,” Hunter says soothingly. “Two rotations, and we’ll be there.”
Reassured, your shoulders relax, “Wonderful! I can’t wait to see all of you! I’m sure Crosshair has enjoyed the break from me, but I’ve missed him so much. I miss all of you, Hunter.” Your voice is so tender, it makes his heart clench.
He had not enjoyed the break at all though. Between his brothers giving him a hard time, and wanting you back, he was miserable.
Two rotations. It wouldn’t be long now.
***
Crosshair’s leg was bouncing, as the Marauder docked with the Negotiator. You were so close, almost home.
The five of them boarded the Star Destroyer, and Crosshair’s eyes began searching for you immediately. Cody was there to greet them, grasping Hunter’s arm in welcome.
“Good to see you, Commander,” Hunter said warmly.
“Good to see you too, Sergeant,” Cody began, “I’m not going to lie, I tried to keep your medic. She’s brilliant, and the men adore her.”
“Of course they do,” Wrecker’s pride in you is evident.
“She said the Negotiator was missing a few necessities,” Cody quirked an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips.
“She’s quite mistaken. The Havoc Marauder is not equipped with even 10% of what a Republic Venator has,” Tech says, brow furrowed.
“It doesn’t have Gonky,” Wrecker said as though it were obvious.
“It doesn’t have the five of you either!” you quipped, appearing at Cody’s elbow.
“Cyar’ika!” Wrecker bellowed, scooping you up and spinning you around.
“Wrecker!” you squealed as you returned his hug as tightly as you could
Crosshair’s heart was pounding again. He waited at the back of the group, watching his brothers welcome you back. Pressing their foreheads to yours, ghosting their fingers over your jaw, holding the back of your head gently. Then you were standing in front of him. Arms clasped behind your back, not reaching for him as you had the others. Respecting his space as always.
“I’m happy to see you too, Cross. Ready to deal with me every day again?”
“Are you ready to deal with me? All of us, again?”
“Ready and looking forward to it!” Your smile is bright and he nearly reached for you then, but he stopped himself.
“Well, Commander, you know where to find us, if you need us…or our medic again,” Hunter said with a grin.
“It was an honor serving alongside the 212th, Commander. I appreciate the opportunity,” You saluted Cody, and the others followed suit.
“The pleasure was all ours,” Cody returned the salute, and watched as the six of you returned to the Marauder.
***
You’re getting settled back into your space on the Marauder, answering questions from Wrecker, curious about the armory and ordnance, and Tech pestering you for every detail about the Negotiator, as Echo and Hunter wait to get a word in edgewise.
“Come on, boys. Give her some breathing room,” Hunter says, scooting them towards the cockpit, ignoring their protests.
“It’s good to have you back, saraad,” Echo said with a soft smile, that made your heart skip a beat.
You smile fondly at them as they go, going back to unpacking your things, and changing.
Crosshair is in his bunk, pretending he’s not watching you, but he can’t focus on anything else. Every inch of skin you reveal is making his body react. His heart thumping, breath growing shallow, as he drinks you in. This isn’t even the first time he’s seen you naked or changing, but it feels different now. He frowns as he notices a bandage on your hip peaking out of your panties, wrapping around your hip. It’s covered swiftly by the bottom half of a fresh set of blacks.
He slid out of his bunk, and you turned to face him, as you pulled the top half down covering your stomach, hiding your skin from his gaze. Naturally, you stepped back to give him space, and you were pleasantly surprised when he deliberately stepped closer. You looked up at him expectantly, eyes searching his for any hint of what he’s up to.
Crosshair was sure he should say something, but his mind was only offering sardonic quips that would convey the truth, but not like he wanted. He lifted a hand, and tapped your hip softly, fingertips resting against you. This was the first time Crosshair had ever touched you without necessity. Your heart sped up, and you swallowed hard.
“What’s this?” he asked, his voice low and even.
“Rooftop sniper,” you shook your head, folding your arms. “One of the other medics wasn’t as lucky. He was still in the med bay when you came to pick me up. No one could have clocked him to be fair.”
“I could have,” Crosshair said, anger simmering under his even tone.
“Well, there’s only one Crosshair in the galaxy. Next time I leave, I’ll take you with me.” You smiled up at him, but his face held the frown.
“Hey, I’m ok. Still good to do my job,” you added, brow furrowing.
“Fucking regs,” He swore, as he shifted his hand to hold your hip gently like you were a fragile thing. A fragile thing that belonged to him.
You hesitated before resting your hand against his chest, tapping your fingertips against the plastoid.
“Cross, I’m home, and in one piece. How can I show you?”
An eyebrow raised at that, sharp eyes taking you in, lingering on your lips, as they parted, a silent invitation for him. He leaned down, bringing his lips close to yours, begging you to close the distance. You wrapped your arms around his trim waist, as you pressed your lips to his softly.
The ache that had been simmering in his chest since you left is morphing into arousal, moving to settle down in his belly. His lips moved tentatively against yours, teeth nipping gently at your bottom lip.
“Hey,” Wrecker protested loudly. “We agreed we’d all talk to her together, Crosshair!”
The two of you break apart, and you clear your throat, your eyes trained on Crosshair.
“Talk to me about what?” You asked, breathlessly.
“Sorry, doll,” Crosshair said before Wrecker tugged him away in a headlock.
“What are you gonna talk to me about?” you asked again.
“When we get home, cyar’ika,” Wrecker said before turning to Crosshair. “Knew you were full of it, Cross!”
You touch your lips, as you watch the pair of them playfully fighting down the corridor. Did that happen? You pinched your arm as hard as you could, grimacing when it hurt, confirming you were awake, Crosshair had just kissed you. What the hell happened while you were gone? And what did they need to talk to you about?
***
In the cockpit on watch, you relaxed in the copilot’s chair, Tech snoozed gently in the pilot’s chair. It was so good to be home despite the fact that there was clearly something going on with your boys. Your alarm beeped, and you rose from the chair, yawning and stretching ready to trade out with Crosshair, and pass out for a little while.
Hunter intercepted you in the hallway with a grin. “I can’t sleep, so I’ll cover for Crosshair. Go get some rest.” He kissed your forehead, and added, “Good to have you home, Doc.”
“Good to be home, Sarge,” you replied before bidding him goodnight, and heading towards your bunk.
“Hunter?” You turn towards him.
“Hmm?” Hunter asks turning to you.
“What happened while I was gone? Why’s everyone acting weird?”
“We’ll talk when we get back to Kamino. Get some rest,” He says with a mysterious grin that makes you bite your lip.
You pout but follow his orders and head to your bunk. You’re about to climb in when you look towards Crosshair’s bunk. He was the least likely to spill the beans, but he had kissed you earlier. Was that the big secret?
You moved to stand near Crosshair’s bunk. Pushing back the privacy curtain, you whispered his name like you normally would to wake him up for his shift.
“My turn already?” he replied sleepily.
“No, Hunter’s there. I was hoping we could talk about earlier, or we could just sleep,” Even after your encounter earlier, he still made you nervous, and you worried you’d made a mistake until he lifted the blankets, and silently invited you into his bed.
You crawled in, and he lowered the blanket over your body before snaking his arm around your waist and pushing his leg between yours. His muscular thigh pressed up against you, sending a wave of heat through your body. He tucked your head beneath his chin, and it became clear he was not saying a word, so you listened to his heartbeat until you were lulled to sleep.
When you woke up a few hours later, you realized that you hadn’t slept well at all while you were gone. You needed to be crammed into the Marauder with your squad to relax. It helped that Crosshair had held you the entire time, and as you stretched and arched your back you realized he was looking at you.
“Did you sleep well?” you asked quietly not wanting to disturb the others. He simply nodded, his eyes roaming your face, as his hand rested on your waist.
“Good. We should be home soon, yeah?” you asked, rolling onto your back before sitting up.
“Something like that,” Crosshair replied cryptically.
You didn’t bother asking what he meant before sliding out of the bunk, and tossing him a smile.
“I’m going to see where we are. Go back to sleep.”
Once again he nodded, but he knew there was no chance of going back to sleep. Not when he knew what they had planned for the day.
You wandered into the cockpit, taking the co-pilot’s seat next to Echo.
“How was your first night back?” Echo asked smiling as you got comfortable in the chair.
“Cozy. I didn’t realize how much I’d miss you guys until I was gone.”
“I don’t think we did either,” he confesses.
“Oh yeah?” You asked, trying not to seem too happy about it.
He nodded, and the two of you were quiet for a moment. As always silence was never awkward with Echo, and while this was no exception, you could feel a tension in the air. It was reminiscent of the one you’d felt the night before when Crosshair had kissed you.
“I don’t suppose I can get you to tell me what’s going on?” You asked, turning the chair towards him and leaning forward.
“Always so impatient, saraad,” Echo says shaking his head.
“I can’t help it. Something’s up. Crosshair has been sweet to me,” you add in a conspiratorial whisper.
Echo huffs out a short laugh.
“Oh has he now?”
“Yeah, and,” you hesistate. You want to keep going, to spill every thought in your head to Echo, but something’s got your tongue. “It’s nothing.” You turn your chair back into place, and ask, “Where are we? How far from home?”
Reluctantly, Echo tears his gaze away from you. He looks over the navicomputer.
“Not far.”
“You wanna get some sleep? I can get us to Kamino safely.”
He raises an eyebrow at that.
“Ok, I can get us there. No promises on the condition,” you concede.
“You’re meant to be resting. Crosshair told us what happened,” Echo trails off.
“I told you he was being sweet to me, but I guess a kiss is a little more than sweet…”
“Kiss?! I meant you getting shot!” Echo hisses trying not to wake the others, as he spins towards you.
“He told you about that?!” You hiss back, spinning towards him.
“Of course he did. Why didn’t you?”
“I didn’t wanna worry you guys. Cross was not happy when he saw the bandage, and…”
“Of course he wasn’t. And I’m not happy you didn’t tell us. We could have lost you,” Echo’s eyes are worried, his brow knit together, as he reaches for your face.
His fingertips have just brushed your jaw when the cockpit opens, and the pair of you sit back and look towards the door.
“You’re supposed to be resting,” Hunter says, gesturing for you to follow him.
“I was,” you pout. “I just wanted to see if we were close to home.”
“That’s funny because it sounded like you were arguing about keeping your injury a secret,” Hunter says. Out of everyone on the ship, you never thought Crosshair would be the one to tell on you.
“No, I was just…trying to…ya know?”
“No, I don’t know, senaar’ika. Now get in your bunk and rest your eyes. I’ll wake you the moment we land.”
“Fine,” you relent, and climb into your bunk, and even your racing brain can’t keep you awake.
taglist: @dystopicjumpsuit (not sure if you wanted to be tagged in everything or not, so just let me know 🥰)
👩🎤 I'd love to be added- I absolutely love star wars.
Hello again, everyone...and welcome to another installment of Fandom Friday, the two-post series where I go off to find new and interesting fanworks that might need a bit more visibility.
Before we go into the list...I just want to repeat that I'm updating my tag list, so that I can continue to reach those who are interested and possibly strike everyone who isn't from the roster. So, if this still describes you, just drop a rockstar emoji (👩🎤) into the comments or reblogs, and I'll keep on tagging you. If not...just don't like, reblog, or respond to anything, and I'll be sure to scratch you off.
And so, without further delay, here are my fanfiction picks of the week.
THE CLONE WARS
The Clone Wars Fanfiction--By @st4rsnf1cs:
THE BAD BATCH
The Bad Batch Fanfiction--By @vodika-vibes:
The Bad Batch Fanfiction--By @green-alm0nd:
THE ORIGINAL TRILOGY
The Original Trilogy Fanfiction--By @tsotf-fic:
THE MANDALORIAN
The Mandalorian Fanfiction--By @stardust-and-snickerdoodles:
The Mandalorian Fanfiction--By @whxtedreams:
AHSOKA
Ahsoka Fanfiction--By @illuminatedquill:
In conclusion, as part of my mission to poke around the Star Wars fandom and, on Friday every week, highlight those writers who might otherwise go unnoticed…I hope you will check out the links I have included for yourselves and like, comment on, and reblog them, as well as also giving the writers a few more followers to their Tumblr pages.
Please also like and reblog this latest installment so that these links can be spread around to as many other fans as possible, just in case not all of them can tune in at the same time.
An additional thank you goes to @djarrex for making the divider I used earlier in this post, but still want to give credit for.
And finally, so that I do not forget…thank you to my friends, thank you to this fandom, good morning, and good luck.
No Pressure Tags: @melymigo @algo-o-nada @theosb0rnway @everybirdfellsilent @skellymom
@leos-multifandom-corner @maggie-dylan @leenabb104104 @gun-roswell @tazmbc1
@bluedeedeedoop @its-time-to-rise-above @tlmtwelve and anybody else who might be on the lookout for new SW fanfiction.