The Bad Batch Crosshair - Blog Posts

Love Against the Odds

Pairing: Tech x F! Reader.

Warnings: Fake Dating. Modern Universe. Smut/ Fluff. Sexual tension.

A/N: Hi everyone!! I hope you’re enjoying reading this modern au. There will be smut in the future chapters. I’m in the process of writing one chapter at a time. I do have an outline of the story! I do post on A03 too! Anyways please heart and let me know if I made any mistakes. <3

Summary: Tech and reader discuss the contract over a dinner date.

Chapter 4

Waking up the sound of your cat purring on your chest. You slowly open your eyes. The sun peaking through your blinds. Petting your cat softly as your cat sits in your lap. Finally getting out of the bed, you stretch your arms. You walk over to the kitchen to feed your cat who is meowing at you.

“Ok ok relax I hear you.” You say putting the cat food in the bowl. You watch your cat eat the food right away. Smiling to yourself as you walk over to your room. You pick up your phone seeing two notifications. One was from Hera and another was from Tech. Your heart skips a beat when seeing tech’s notification. Opening the message right away.

“Good Morning. I have made reservations for dinner tonight. I will pick you up.”

You sit on your bed. Thinking of what to respond to your fake boyfriend. Tilting your head as you text back.

“Good morning Tech. Ok I’ll see you soon.” You hit send as you walk back to your kitchen. You make yourself a breakfast. Another buzz comes from your phone. Seeing another text from Hera and Tech. You completely forgot to respond to Hera. Opening her message first.

“Hey! I hope you had a good night last night! I’m sorry I was not able to chat with you much.”

Another message.

“I hope my boss wasn’t to terrible to you.”

Your eyes widen. Remembering Tech is Heras boss. You debate on telling her the truth or coming up with a lie. If you told her the truth she could get mad going along with techs bizarre agreement. If you lie she wouldn’t have to know and it could just be a secret between you and tech. Taking a deep breath coming up with a reply.

“Heyy! It was all good Hera it wasn’t so bad. Your boss was fine.” You hit send. Feeling guilty for lying to your best friend. You chuckle a bit at your wording “fine” Tech was definitely fine. He was rather good looking with his soft brown eyes and his jawline…You shake your head from this thought. Going back to feeling guilty about lying to Hera. You never lied to her before. Sitting down on your kitchen table not being able to finish your breakfast. You open Techs message now.

“Yes see you soon. I will be there at five o’ clock.”

You take a minute for yourself deciding not text back. You just put a thumbs up on his message. Putting your phone down. You go sit on your couch. Turning on the tv to a series you were watching. Your cat napping next to you. Taking a photo of your adorable cat sleeping. Brighting up your mood as you look at the pictures. You turn your attention to the tv then grabbing your laptop. Scrolling and replying to work related emails.

After finishing up some work on your laptop. You yawn and look at the time on your laptop. Seeing that is it almost time for you to go on your date with Tech. Shutting your laptop down, looking over at your cat who is still sound asleep. A simple no responsibilities in the world.You roll your eyes.

“Oh how nice it is to be a cat.” You say while petting softly. You walk back to your room to get ready. Unsure of what to wear on your fake date. Still finding it weird on the wording fake date. You chuckle while looking through clothes in your closet. Pulling out a short white and black dress. Throwing it on debating to wear a blue dress or the one you have one. Trying them both on. The blue dress was too long and you weren’t in the mood to wear a long dress. You decide to go with the short black and white dress. The dress was fitted exactly for you. The short length and low cut design accentuates your curves and emphasizes your fitting style. Your breast cleavage being shown a bit more than usual. You hurry to the bathroom to do your hair. Afterwards, grabbing your bag and slight a bit of perfume. You see Techs black gloves on the table where your phone is at. Smiling at how thoughtful he was last night to let you wear them. Shoving the gloves in your bag. You hear a knock on the door. You quickly realize the time and know it’s Tech.

You smile to yourself before you open the door. Your heart skips a beat. Finally you get the courage to open the door. Checking him out. Tech would is well-put together and well-groomed. His black wool turtle neck with some nice charcoal trousers. His black trench coat keeping him from being cold. He fixes his glasses to check you out quickly and secretly. Your eyes still on him. It shows he was wanting present himself in the best light possible on this fake date. Tech clears his throat.

“you dressed up nice. We should be heading to our reservation now.” Tech says bluntly as he’s looking at you. He can’t help but admire your eyes. The dress making your eyes and body pop. He quickly looks at his phone to stop himself from looking at you. You chuckle at his somewhat nice compliment.

“You look nice yourself Tech. Where are we going?” You say a bit excited to go. You and Tech walk to his car. He opens the passenger door for you. Thanking him as he closed the door. He gets in the car and quickly puts on the car heater.

“I assume you’re cold. I put on the heater just incase. Mhm. I made us reservations at a restaurant with a rooftop bar and grill. The food is terrific. From what I heard. I looked into the reviews.” Tech says as he drives off. You smile at him. Tech doesn’t notice as he’s paying close attention to the road.

“Sounds like a fun date to me.”

Tech taps his fingers on the wheel. He looks over at you. “Remember this is not a real date. We are negotiating on our fake relationship.”

Your heart drops a little. You nod your head. Brushing it off. Chuckling to yourself.

“I know tech. I’m teasing you.” You say softly .

Techs attention still on the road. His fingers are tapping the wheel still. “Oh. It can be rather difficult for me to understand this sort of teasing.”

“Oh tech I understand.” You say feeling a bit bad.

“Mhmm. Pheraps if we agree to this negotiation. I can learn more about this teasing. with you….” Tech says while driving into a parking garage. Smiling softly to himself.

You see him smiling. You can’t help but think how his smile is beautiful. Even if it was a half smile there was just something about it. You felt like a sense of accomplishment every time he smiled. It made you want to keep a smile on his face as long as you could. As Tech finds a parking spot and finally parks. Both of you exit the car together. You can’t help but notice his height. He sure was taller than you. He’s tall and polite. Youd can’t help it but notice these things. Tech puts his hand on your back as he guides you to the restaurant. The restaurant is crowded and filled with customers. He holds your back close so you don’t get lost in the crowd. Finally reaching the hostess desk. Tech tells the hostess his reservation time. Both of you wait a few minutes till the hostess takes both of you to a private table on the rooftop.

The private table is a viewing of the beautiful sunset rooftop restaurant. It is the epitome of sophistication. The sunset is like a painting with the sound of light jazz music in the background. The stunning skyline with the cotton candy sky. You can’t help it but recognize the atmosphere is romantic. It’s creating a cozy and intimate feeling. The private table is a soft glow with the chic decor. The roof makes the space feel open and airy, accentuated by the sounds of the city below and the gentle breeze of the air. You smile at the sight. Tech looks up at from menu and he starts staring at you.

Tech can’t help but feel a bit of pressure in his heart. He never felt this before. Maybe it was the breakfast he ate in the morning. He can’t help but capture the beauty of the sunset. Then there was you. Just sitting right in front of him while you’re unaware of his admiration. His eyes were on you. His brown honey eyes in a form of admiration just on you. Looking at your soft lips to your eyes. He couldn’t help but admire the beauty. He catches himself looking at you longer than expected. Looking back at the menu. He breaks the silence.

“How are you enjoying the view?” Tech ask while he looks down at the menu.

“It’s definitely really pretty. I love how the sunset looks like cotton candy.” You say while picking up your menu.

“Ah yes. The sunset does look rather nice.” Tech says as he looks up to admire the sunset. Noticing the pink clouds do look like cotton candy.

“What made you pick this place out Tech?” You ask curious why would he take you to an expensive restaurant instead of somewhere less expensive.

“It is rather private. I have now done research on where to take a women on dates. I guess you can say.” Tech says confidently. Pulling out his phone to show the research he’s been doing. He is so confident in himself.

“Wow tech, I’m impressed that you done research for someone who says they don’t have time for dating.” You say teasing him.

“It is only because I want to this plan to work. If we are convincing enough, others will believe our fake relationship is real.” Tech puts his phone down. Paying his attention to you.

The waiter comes to take both of your guys other. Bringing out both of your drinks. You decided to just go with a simple water. Unsure if you should order anything else. Tech looks at you while you order. You swear it feels like he’s studying you.

“Is there something wrong?” You ask Tech while taking a sip of your drink.

“No. If you would like to order anything else you want go ahead and order.”

“Oh, I’m okay for right now. Thanks.” You say with a soft smile.

“Very well then… We should go over our contract.” Tech says while pulling out some paperwork.

Your eyes wide at the amount of paperwork there is. You look around making sure nobody is looking. Realizing the table you’re both sitting at is private and away from most people.

“That is a lot of paperwork Tech. You want me to go over all this?” You say grabbing the paperwork. Scheming through the papers.

“Obviously, it is a contract for a reason.” Tech says while watching you go through the paperwork.

You roll your eyes. Looking through the paperwork. Everything seemed normal nothing weird in the contract. Just the basics on not telling anyone about this. Agreeing to go on dates and events with Tech. You notice in the contract this fake relationship will last only 6 months. Looking back up at Tech. He is busy answering work emails on his phone.

“If you have any questions. Don’t be imitated go ask.” Tech says tapping away on his phone.

“Who said I was imitated? What if I want you to come with me for my own work events?” You ask with a bit of sass as you raise one of your eyebrows.

Tech stops tapping on his phone as he looks up at you. “Yes, this contract includes us both. Not just on my personal behalf.”

You nod your head. Continuing to read more of the contract. You see at the end of the contract in bold “Cannot fall in love.” You chuckle a bit reading that line. Tech hears you chuckle. He looks at you a bit concerned if he made an error.

“Is there some type of error?”

“No, I just thought it was a bit funny how you put “cannot fall in love” in the contract.” You say smiling at him.

Tech fixes his glasses. “I do not see the appeal on your amusement. It is a clear message on both of us agreeing not to fall in love.”

“Okay but what if we do fall in loveee?” You asking teasing him a bit. Trying to keep your laugh quiet as possible. You see Tech got a bit little flustered. He looks at his phone.

“Will not happen. Like, I stated before I do not have time for romance.” Tech says to you with a serious face.

You smile at him. “I know Tech. I’m just teasing you. Something you will get use to in our fake relationship. Everything in the contract looks good.”

He makes eye contact with you. A little smile appearing on his face but goes back to being serious. “Very well then. Just sign the agreement and we’ll continue discussing. I have an extra copy for you to keep, but it is in my car. After dinner I will hand your copy of the contract.” Tech says putting away his phone away.

The waiter comes back with both your meals. Sitting the plates right in front of you both. The waiter ask if you both want to order anything else. Tech shakes his head and the waiter looks at you. You smirk at tech.

“I’ll actually take a berry martini. Thank you.” You say to the waiter. He nods and goes to get your drink. Tech looks at you and takes a bite of his food. The waiter comes back with your drink. You thank the waiter once again.

“Do you want a sip Tech?”

Tech shakes his head no. “Not my ideal drink.”

“What is your ideal drink then?” You ask while taking a sip of the berry martini. Tasting the fruity drink on your lips.

“It depends on the mood. If I’m having a nice meal I will go with a vintage wine. Perhaps a classic shaken gin martini.”

You listen to him talking about his ideal drinks. “Oh come on tech this is basically a martini, but it has vodka not gin.”

Tech chuckles at your persistence to make him try new flavor. “I do not enjoy sweet alcoholic beverages. But, If you insist I will take a sip.”

You smile excitedly at him agreeing. You hand him the berry martini. An intriguing purple-pink color from the blueberries. Watching him take a sip of the drink. He looks at the drink and puts the glass to his lips. Taking a small sip and licking his lips. A rush of berry flavor bursting into his mouth. Slight of bitterness from the alcohol beneath. You look at him waiting for his response.

“That was rather bitter, but delicious. I quite enjoyed the drink.” Tech says while handing you back your drink. You smile in success.

“Yes! I had a feeling you would like it. Since we’re going to be in a fake relationship expect to experience new things.” You say while taking a bite of your food.

Tech nods his head. “Yes, we both will. Speaking of our fake relationship. We both do agree on not telling anyone about this.”

You finish chewing your food. “I don’t plan on telling anyone tech. You should’ve told me you were Heras boss in the beginning.”

“Yes, I formally apologize for not being truthful. If it makes you uncomfortable we can stop this fake relationship before I put the paperwork with my lawyer.”

“No no I’m comfortable, but you should’ve told me.” You say seriously.

Tech looks at you with a bit of guilt in his eyes. “Yes, I do apologize. When do you plan to Hers about us seeing each other.”

You didn’t even think of telling Hera right away. Or even thought about bringing it up. “I was hoping I could tell her before anyone else does. Hopefully I’m able to see her soon.”

Tech looks at you then takes a bite of his food. “Very well then. I will let you deal with that situation.”

You smile at him. Both of you finish up your food. The meal was absolutely delicious and did not leave you feeling bloated. Tech excuses himself to use the restroom. You sit at the table alone. Deciding to go on your phone. Seeing a message from Hera.

“Hey! Are you busy tonight?”

You quickly reply. “Yess I’m having dinner with a friend.” It wasn’t much of a lie. You could consider tech as your friend. Even though it will be shown to others as if you’re together. You sigh. Already receiving a reply from Hera.

“A friend?! Tell me all about it when you get home”

You decide not to reply. Thinking of what to say to her later. You groan slightly and lean your head on the palm of your hand. Looking down at your phone scrolling through social media. You hear your name being called. You quickly look up expecting to see Tech, but you see your ex Anakin. Your eyes wide open. Looking around to see if Tech was already coming back. You get up from your chair to give Anakin a slight hug. Anakin smile is wide as he places his hands on your elbows.

“You look amazing! How have you been?” Anakin says with a smile on his face. His blue eyes looking into your eyes.

“I’ve been okay! You know me busy busy with work. How are you?” You say a bit awkward.

“I’ve been good. I recently started a project with Obiwan. He’s been teaching as a professor at some university. Busy myself.” Anakin says.

“That’s wonderful to hear. Glad you both are getting along again.” You say softly. You look to make sure Tech isn’t back yet.

“Yeah it’s been tough. Anyways, are you here with Hera or a coworker?” Anakin says with a bright smile.

“Oh no actually I’m on a date.” You say nodding your head. You sit back down on your chair. Feeling a bit awkward using the word date since it wasn’t a real date.

“You’re back on the dating scene? That’s great. I hope I’m not interrupting. But, I don’t see him. Would he mind if I sat down in his chair?” Anakin sits before you could say anything.

“Um Anakin I don’t think you should. He’s my boyfriend actually.” Looking at Anakins reaction who looks rather mad that you moved on. “I see.” Anakin replies.

Tech comes back from the restroom. He had to take a business call but didn’t want to be rude. He had a confused face on why a man is sitting in his seat. An eyebrow raised as he rushes to table thinking the guy is a weirdo trying to make you uncomfortable. Tech clears his throat. His eyesbrows narrowed down.

“Excuse me, you’re in my seat.” Tech says coldly. A pinch of annoyance in his face.

Anakin looks at tech and scoffs. Anakin looks at you. “It was great seeing you again. If you ever want to catch up. You can give me a call.” Anakin says to you and leaves the table.

Your eyes move to the side. You sense tech feeling a bit confused on what happened. Looking at tech who is a bit annoyed on the situation.

“That was my ex boyfriend. I didn’t expect to see him here.” You say playing with your fingers.

“I see. No wonder why he glared at him.” Tech says while he sits in his chair. He looks at you. “Did you tell him we were together?” Tech says with a slight grin.

“He glared at you? Yeah I told him I was on a date. Nothing about our agreement.” You say softly.

Tech nods. “Good. Why did you two break up if you don’t mind me asking?” Tech looks at the table anakin was sitting at. Anakin was with a group of friends. He could feel anakins eyes on them.

You chuckle thinking of what to say. “We both just didn’t work well together. Just wasn’t feeling it.” You finish drinking your berry martini.

Tech nods at your response. Trying to understand the concept of relationship issues. Tech makes eye contact with Anakin. He looks back at you and places his hand on top of yours. You jolt a bit from the warmth of his hand.

“If we want this fake relationship to work. We have to make it look clear we’re together.” Tech says as he runs his thumb over your hand. You can’t help but feel a pile of butterflies in your stomach. The warmth of his hand feeling the coldness of your hands. You both make eye contact and smile at one another.

“Yeah you’re right about that.” You say looking at techs honey brown eyes.

“Of course, I am.” He says handing his card to the waiter. His right hand not leaving your hand. He sees anakin staring at you both. Now ignoring him as he puts his attention on you.

You both thank the waiter for his service. Tech puts his hand on your back. Guiding you out of the crowded restaurant. You can’t help but like the feeling of his hand on your back. Both of you walk back to his car. As he opens the car door for you again. Smiling at his generous gesture. As tech drives off to your place. You remember you still have his gloves.

“Tech, I can’t forgot to give you back your gloves last night.” You say looking at him driving.

His eyes turn to you. “Keep them. I read an article on how girlfriends keep a piece of their partners clothing as a form of comfort.”

You laugh. “Usually it’s a shirt or a jacket. Not always gloves but I’ll keep them on since I’m cold.”

“Oh. Perhaps I can let you borrow a jacket sometime.” Tech says with a small grin. As he turns lanes while driving.

“Great. I’m still keeping the gloves though.” Laughing a bit as you put on his gloves. Feeling the coldness leave your hands as you wear techs gloves.

Tech laughs softly. “The next time we meet. We need to discuss more about ourselves. Just incase others ask or tend to notice we don’t know much about each others interests.”

You nod your head agreeing. Looking out the window. Watching the stars as tech drives you home. Slight of excitement fills you as you think of knowing more about tech. You were curious to know more about his background and interest.

Tech parks in front of your place. You smile at him as he’s about to get down to walk you to the door.

“You don’t have to walk me to the door tech. It’s okay.”

Tech looks at you and nods. “I will watch you to make sure you get in safe.”

You smile and get out of the car. You walk to the front of your building. Looking back at him watching you from afar in the car. You smile and wave. You see him smile as you walk inside.

Closing the door behind you. A pit of hope fills your empty heart. You can’t help but wonder on how it would be if any of the dates were real. You sigh. Remembering you can’t fall for him. There’s a knock on your door. You open the door and see it’s tech. A pinch of excitement over takes you.

“Tech? What happened?”

Tech hands you the contract. “You see I lost in my thoughts while driving here. I forgot to give your extra copy of the contract.”

You take the contact from his hands. “Tech, you could’ve just gave it to me the next time we saw each other.” You laugh a bit.

He fixes his glasses. “Yes, I could’ve done that.” You smile at him. Your cat meows at tech. You bend over to pick up your cat.

“Fascinating. Cats are unpredictable creatures, which makes them interesting to observe. They can be fun and playful, but also aloof and independent creatures. Their unpredictable nature fascinates me.” Tech says as he studied your cat.

You think it’s cute how hes rambling on about cats. A bit impressed on the information he just told you. “Tech, you can pet my cat if you would like.”

Tech realizes he was rambling. He fixes his glasses. “I apologize for my ramble. Sometimes I can get ahead of myself.” Tech slowly puts his hand softly on your cats head. As he brushes the soft fur of your cat. Causing your cat to purr in your arms.

“Don’t worry about it tech. I find it really interesting when you info dump.” You say looking at him. His turtleneck making his shoulders look good. “My cat likes you. Usually my cat hides or doesn’t want to be pet.” You say staring at tech. He continues petting your cat.

Tech looks back at you and stops petting. He smiles and nods. “Great to know. I always wanted a cat but never have the time.”

“Now that you have a fake girlfriend. My cat is your cat for the next 6 months.” You say joking with him.

He laughs. “I should be heading home. Goodnight.” Tech smiles at you and leaves. Closing the door softly as you finally put your cat back down on the floor. You put the contract on the table as you go feed your cat.

After feeding your cat. You go get dressed to head to bed. Laying down and yawning. You remember you forgot to text back Hera. Thinking of what to say.

“It was a coworker. We had to catch up to talk about a client.” You hit send. Yawning a bit. Your phone buzzing seeing a message from Tech.

“Goodnight. I will text you details on our next date.” You grin at the message. “Okay. Goodnight tech.” You hit send as you put your phone on do not disturb.

Thinking of techs brown eyes looking into your eyes. You can’t help but fantasize on what his lips feel like. Were they soft? Would his kisses be harsh? The way his lips took a small sip of your drink. Wanting to taste the drink off his lips. You slowly feel your eyes drift to sleep. Finally falling asleep.

Love Against the Odds

Warnings: Fake Dating. Alternate Universe. Smut/ Fluff. Sexual tension.

Pairing: Tech x F! Reader

A/N: Hi everyone! I hope you’re having a good day! This is the second chapter to this series. I’m still unsure of how many chapters there will be. If there are mistakes so sorry it’s late for me. Just let me know. Please heart and share. <3

Summary:

We see Techs part of the storyline. Understanding his part of the story.

Chapter 2

Tech was sitting at his office. Typing a way on his keyboard. Taking small sips of his black coffee. He was setting long term plans for the company making sure the company reaches their goals. Techs intelligence, dedication, and determination made him succeed in his role. His analytical skills helped him guide the company in the right direction. Tech always thought things logically and rationally. His mind was focusing on work most majority. The other half of his mind was on his brothers and Omega. Tech always cared for them deeply. He had his own way of showing it. His head was always typing away on the keyboard working on a new project. Tech knew he was a critical boss and can come out as harsh. He never intends to be so critical, but it’s common knowledge to him. He is blunt on his employees. Articulating what he wants done. Most majority of his employees did not enjoy being around him at any events or even enjoy working on a project with him. They would all walk away when he walked into the room. Even small talk would lead to them excusing themselves awkwardly. Tech felt like an outsider regardless if he was in a high position. Sometimes he would get rather lonely.

“Sir, your phone is ringing it’s your brother Hunter.” Techs assistant walks in to inform him.

Tech nods his head and picks up the phone. Techs assistant quickly walks out the office room.

“Hunter, what is it?”

“Good to hear from you too tech.” Hunter says sarcastically.

“What is it? I’m currently working and I have an important dinner tomorrow.” Tech ask a bit annoyed.

“Yeah you’re always working tech. How about you come swing by for a game tonight. Wrecker and Omega really miss you.” Hunter says.

“Well I’m really busy and I don’t know if it’s certain I’ll be done by the time.” Tech looks at the time.

“Well how about you take a break for your family and just come by. Bring your work with you.” Hunter says. Omega is in the background begging for tech to come.

Tech hears Omega wanting him to come by. He sighs.

“Alright I’ll come by just for a few minutes.” Tech says giving in.

Omega grabs the phone away from Hunter and thanks tech for giving in. Hunter grabs back the phone and laughs.

“See you then Tech.” Hunter hangs up

Tech looks at work realizing he’s almost finishing his work. He continues to concentrate till it’s time for him to go. Tech packs up his stuff when he’s finished. He heads to hunters place. He stretches his long arms and his neck. Feeling a bit stiff from typing all day. Tech arrives at Hunters place. Omega opens the door before tech can even knock.

“Tech! You came!” Omega says happily. Her blue eyes full of joy from her brother visiting her.

“Well I don’t think I had a choice.” Tech says with a little smile.

Wrecker pops by the door and punches tech shoulder playfully. Making Tech roll his eyes at his brothers action. Wrecker laughs while he teased him. Tech walks inside and goes to sit on the couch.

“Good to see you too Wrecker. Didn’t think you’d be so excited to see me.” Tech says while pulling out his work from his bag.

“Oh come on you brought work with you? We’re suppose to play a game!” Wrecker looks at tech confused.

“Yeah Tech we want you to play the game with us. You’ll like the game. It’s very strategic.” Omega says while sitting next to tech on the blue couch.

“Sadly, as much I want to beat you both at this game. I have lots of work to do.” Tech says while typing in his keyboard.

“Come on Tech.” Omega pleads.

“Omega…Wrecker.. I told you both Tech was busy. As long as he’s here. We get to enjoy his company.” Hunter says coming from the kitchen with some homemade nachos.

Wrecker walks over to eat a chip. Omega rolls her eyes in defeat. She groans as she sets up the game. Tech notices the changes in Omega. Realizing she’s getting older. Her blonde hair grew out a bit more. She was a bit taller too.

“Tech! Do you want some nachos?” Hunter ask while placing the nachos on the table.

“Not right now.” Tech says.

Wrecker and Hunter shrug, eating their nachos.

“When are Echo and Rex coming back from their double date?” Omega ask giggling.

“Look at you being nosey.” Hunter says smiling at Omega.

“I’m just asking that’s all. Maybe they will want to play since Tech can’t.” Omega says with a smile.

Tech looks up from his work. He pays attention to what they’re talking about.

“Rex and Echo went on a double date?” Tech ask getting amused at this conversation.

“Yeah Tech something you should be trying.” Wrecker says while laughing.

Tech rolls his eyes and shakes his head.

“I have no time for romance. Or any sort of relationship. It is not something I want to try.” Tech says firmly.

Hunter and Wrecker sigh. Omega pops a nacho in her mouth.

“Tech.. maybe you could try dating out. You’re always caught up in work. Sometimes you don’t realize what’s out there till you try.” Hunter says while scratching his neck.

“Yeah you’re so caught up in work. You hardly see us.” Wrecker buts in

“Nonsense. I do not need to try. I’m busy and that is all.” Tech says sharply

“Maybe if you found someone you love you would be a lot happier. There’s more to life than just working your life away.” Hunter chips in.

“I am happy. I finish my work and I go to bed. My routine is on schedule.” Tech looks up at Hunter and Wrecker annoyed

Hunter and Wrecker look at each other and sigh knowing that they tried.

“We just care about you tech. We just wanted to see you try something out besides just work.” Hunter says.

Omega looks at them. She frowns then looks back at the game. Hunter noticed Omega starting to look down. Wrecker and Hunter sit on the floor with her and begin playing the game.

Tech sighs softly as he looks at them. Why would falling in love help him? It only leads to disappointment from seeing his brothers past relationships. Dealing with relationship issues was not worth it. Just because you love someone? It didn’t make sense to tech. Then again he never tried falling in love or meeting anyone. Work was his main focus and his life. No one could possibly change that…

Rex and Echo walk into Hunters place. They both are extra happy. Rex had a certain smell of perfume. It was so strong it made Tech nose clench. Echo had a smile on his face.

“Guessing you both had a good time on your guys double date?” Hunter says with a smirk.

“It was pretty nice. She was a great women. Most definitely will be seeing her again.” Rex says.

“I’m doing the same thing. My date was kind and understanding.” Echo says while cleaning the table of leftover nacho cheese.

“Glad you both had fun. Maybe you guys can bring them over so we can meet them.” Hunter says happily for his

Tech listens to their conversation. Feeling a bit annoyed. He was truly happy for his brothers dates going well. He just wanted the whole dating conversation to get out of the room. He notices an error in the dinner menu. He messages one of his employers annoyed. Due to his irritability from his brothers he was being a bit critical on Heras error. She was one of his best employees, but he was in no mood for errors. After finishing the messages. His brothers call his name. Tech looks up.

“Tech, are you almost finished?” Wrecker ask.

“No. One of my employees made a mistake for tomorrows dinner event. Now I have to make sure they correct their error.” Tech says firmly.

“Will there be single people at the dinner event?” Wrecker says with a laugh.

“I am unaware and do not care. That is not my main objective at tomorrows dinner event.” Tech says sternly

“I wasn’t asking for you. I was asking for myself.” Wrecker looks at Rex with a grin.

“In that case I do not know.” Tech looks at them.

They all just nod and get back in to the game. Echo and Rex try out the game with Omega. Everyone expect Tech was screaming in fun. Hunter laughs as Echo loses to Omega. Tech looks at them feeling a bit left out. He packs up his work to head home. Not wanting to ruin their fun.

“I’m going to get going. I have lots of work to do.” Tech says.

Everyone waves bye to Tech. Before Tech leaves Hunter pulls him to the side.

“Tech, from what we said. We’re just worried about you. We just want you to experience other things besides just working.” Hunter says putting a hand on techs shoulder.

Tech looks down and thinks. He knew his brothers were worried about him working all the time. Tech thought nothing of thinking it’s part of life. His honey eyes behind his goggles look around the room. Avoiding eye contact with Hunter.

“I understand your concern. I must get going.” Tech says while shutting the front door behind him.

Hunter sighs as he watches Tech leave. Omega and Echo call Hunter back over to play the game.

Tech gets to his own place. Placing his work on his table. He goes to look what’s inside his fridge and cabinets. Realizing he forgot to go grocery shopping. Not having much food nor was he in the mood to cook. His stomach grumbling. He makes a reminder to send his assistant to pick up his groceries. Tech grabs a granola bar and a cup of vanilla yogurt. He eats it fast from how hungry he is. The crumbs of the granola bar falling down his shirt. Feeling annoyed of the mess he made. The crumbs falling on the kitchen floor. He finishes his snack and cleans his mess. Finally receiving a email on the correct forms from Hera about tomorrows dinner event. He goes over the details and list of names. He sees a brand new name he’s never seen before. Thinking of how nice the name is. Wondering if he’s met this person before. Techs alarm goes off for him to shower and get ready for bed.

As Tech lays in bed he starts thinking of what Hunter said. Did he really need to date? Why was it so important to experience? He pulls his blankets over his body. Tech did not understand the concept of dating. How dating works is not logical and super complicated. It was odd to Tech to think of love. He never thought of the idea of him dating. The questions continue to wonder his mind. Did he even need the experience? Yeah, it would be nice for him to find that person to spend the rest of your life with. Even start a family with. But, Tech knew he none of that would happen. His work was his purpose, not love. An idea pops his mind. Fake dating would work. He wouldn’t have to fall in love and deal with the reality complications of dating. His brothers would stop nagging him. Tech could continue his work while tricking everyone. It was a brilliant idea for him. Something he should’ve done years ago. Tech slowly writes down his idea. After, he finishes he lays back down. Wondering who would even agree with this idea. Tech drifts off to sleep.

If someone hasn't drawn this already, pls we need a visual to go w this audio 🙏🙏🙏 @zaana @cloned-eyes @shyranno @lornaka

Warm and Safe

Summary: As their relationship continues to develop, Arlo and Crosshair enjoy an afternoon cuddling on the beach.

Fandom: The Bad Batch

Pairing: Crosshair x Original Female Character

Rating: T

Word Count: ~3,700

Here is the next fic in my Crosslo series. Enjoy the light, fluffy beach vibes everyone! Crosslo deserves to have a nice summer too <3

The rest of the fics can be found here in my series Cross My Heart and Help Me Heal.

Not the First, But the Best - Parts 2 & 3

Summary: Crosshair and Arlo spend a sweet evening together on their first date, and it goes even better than Crosshair could have expected. What he also didn’t expect was to face the nosy inquiries of his siblings so soon. It would seem nothing stays a secret for long on a tiny island like Pabu.

Fandom: The Bad Batch

Pairing: Crosshair x Original Female Character

Rating: T

Here are Chapters 2 & 3 for my most recent Crosslo fic! Sorry they're a couple days later than promised, but hopefully it's worth the wait! The rest of the series can be found here: Cross My Heart and Help Me Heal.

Not the First, But the Best - Part 1

Summary: Crosshair and Arlo spend a sweet evening together on their first date, and it goes even better than Crosshair could have expected. What he also didn’t expect was to face the nosy inquiries of his siblings so soon. It would seem nothing stays a secret for long on a tiny island like Pabu.

Fandom: The Bad Batch

Pairing: Crosshair x Original Female Character

Rating: T

Chapter Word Count: ~2,600

Here is Chapter 1 of 3 of the next fic in my Crosslo series (yes, Crosshair and Arlo have a ship name now!) <3

I will be posting chapters 2 and 3 on Thursday. The rest of the fics in the series can be found here Cross My Heart and Help Me Heal .

Such beautiful eyes

Crosshair's eyes have always said much more than his words. They may be the symbol of his mutation, but for me they're much more than that.

His soul.

"You Weren't Loyal To Me": How Crosshair's Brothers Absolutely Failed Him in "The Bad Batch" Season 1

I know I'm not the first person to make these arguments, but after recently rewatching "The Bad Batch" Season 1, I feel compelled to play Devil's Advocate and assert that Crosshair's brothers absolutely failed him in Season 1.

Now, don't mistake me. I don't believe Crosshair was 100% in the right. Once he regained his free will -- whether he actually removed his inhibitor chip, or whether his injury on Bracca deactivated it or lessened its impacts -- he definitely should've left the Empire the first chance he had.

I imagine he was trying to make the best of a bad situation, but I don't see why he would stay with an organization hijacked his mind and ordered him to kill his family, civilians and other people who were trying to do the right thing.

But, I don't think his brothers -- I'm excluding Omega because she's a child and was following everyone else's lead -- are 100% in the right either.

I believe Crosshair's brothers basically abandoned him.

CROSSHAIR'S GREAT INSECURITY?

Now, I understand that they didn't initially plan to abandon Crosshair. But, once they knew he was being mind-controlled and especially once they knew how to undo its effects, they never even considered going back for him.

We never see them debate trying to save Crosshair. They don't discuss whether it's feasible, whether it's worth the risk, how they would even attempt it, etc.

I think this was a much-needed moment that we never get to see. In fact, as others have pointed out, we don't really get much discussion about Crosshair at all.

He's their brother. He's been by their side from infancy through their time as cadets through dozens of missions. Why aren't they more upset about him turning against him? Or being mind-controlled by the Empire?

They seem so blasé about it. Like it's more of an inconvenience than a tragedy, especially by 1.12 "Rescue on Ryloth." Like "Ope, Crosshair's here. I bet he's gonna try to kill us again."

As I'll discuss more later, Hunter gets captured on Daro, and Omega loses her frickin' mind. Even Echo, Wrecker and Tech seemed distressed too, even if the show didn't focused on their reactions as much.

But, Crosshair's mind and body get hijacked by the Empire, and nobody seems to give a shit.

No wonder why Crosshair felt so betrayed and said everything he does in 1.15 and 1.16. It probably confirmed something he always felt, or always feared:

That he was the odd man out in his squad -- the last to be included and the first to be excluded.

That they never cared about him as much as he cared about them.

Based on experiences in my own life, with friends and coworkers, I do wonder if Crosshair was always insecure about his standing within the group. This makes sense given that he's likely the youngest of the four original brothers, and that as a sniper, he isn't always in the middle of the action like they are. His personality doesn't really help either, but his brothers seem to be able to navigate it just fine in their "The Clone Wars" Season 7 arc.

Maybe this is partly why he seemed OK with Echo joining the squad at the end of TCW arc: because he felt like Echo would become the new 'odd man' considering that he didn't grow up with the Bad Batch and wouldn't know Crosshair's brothers like he does.

It's been a while since I watched TCW Season 7, so maybe I'm wrong.

But, I definitely think this is partly why he resents Omega so much in Season 1:

The Bad Batch -- mainly Hunter -- decided to risk their lives and their freedom to go back to Kamino for Omega. She might've been their "little sister," but they'd known her all of one day and Hunter still decided it was worth going back for her.

Yet they never went back for him.

Hell, as far as we the audience know, they never even considered it.

I'm not saying it would have been easy or risk-free. They also now have Omega in their care, and trying to extract Crosshair from Imperial custody while all parties involved would be trying to kill or capture them isn't an easy undertaking.

But, as I'll talk about more later, these guys do rescue and extraction missions all the time. They put their lives on the line for complete strangers several times in Season 1 to save them from Imperial custody, slavery, etc.

And I'm not saying they were wrong to do those things. It was objectively good that the Bad Batch saved the people they did.

But, I can absolutely understand why Crosshair would be infuriated that his brothers take on all these missions to help complete strangers but never bother to help him...

ANALYZING THE BATCH'S DECISIONS BASED ON THE SEASON 1 TIMELINE

I understand that, before he confronts them in the hangar in 1.01 "Aftermath," that they were planning to go back for him. And that they were forced to leave him behind because he was literally gunning for them. And -- as far as his brothers knew -- he was doing it of his own free will.

However, in 1.02 "Cut and Run," Omega tells them about the inhibitor chips, implying that that's how Crosshair is being controlled.

Then in 1.03 "The Replacements," we see that Tech is building a device to locate their inhibitor chips, and Omega tries to tell the Batch and specifically emphasizes to Hunter that Crosshair has no control over his actions. Hunter admits that he's angry at himself for leaving Crosshair behind, and Omega reassures him that they'll get him back someday.

So, it seems like -- at least in Omega's eyes -- the Batch was planning to save Crosshair at some point. And, Hunter at minimum feels guilty for leaving Crosshair on Kamino, even though they didn't really have much of a choice at the time.

However, the Batch gets sidetracked in 1.04 and 1.05. First, they need supplies; then bounty hunters are after Omega; then they need intel on who's after her and why.

Then, by the events of 1.07 "Battle Scars," we see that they've fallen into a routine of doing jobs for Cid. It's safe to assume they've done -- or at least attempted -- a dozen jobs for her at this point, based on Wrecker and Omega's 20 orders of Mantell Mix.

And then Rex shows up and tells them point-blank that the clones can't fight the inhibitor chip's effects, re-emphasizing Omega's earlier point that Crosshair had no control over his actions.

The Batch then experiences this firsthand with Wrecker, whose chip activates before they can extract it. We see that, even with Wrecker fighting the chip's effects with all his might, he endangers his brothers and was *this* close to killing Omega, but thankfully Rex stuns him in the nick of time.

Now, we have confirmation based on both Rex and Wrecker's experiences that removing an active chip restores a clone's free will.

Thus, by the end of 1.07 "Battle Scars," the Batch definitively knows:

Crosshair is being controlled by an inhibitor chip and is being forced to do the Empire's bidding;

How to remove an inhibitor chip; and

That removing a clone's active inhibitor chip will restore his free will

And yet, despite all this knowledge, the only effort they make to save Crosshair is to tell him about the inhibitor chip.

They don't attempt or even discuss possibly stunning him on the artillery deck and taking him with them.

But, admittedly, this isn't the best time to attempt a rescue, as they're outnumbered and essentially trapped aboard the Jedi Cruiser. And then Omega gets captured by Cad Bane and Hunter gets shot, and the others are desperately trying to get off Bracca before Crosshair & co. shoot them down. Fine. Getting off Bracca safely and then trying to find Omega should be their priority.

But, once they recover Omega on Bora Vio, and their lives aren't in immediate danger anymore... this would've been the perfect time to at least debate going back for Crosshair.

Again, they have all the information needed at this point.

As for how they find him, well, I'm sure they could get the information somehow. Or they could just cause a stir somewhere so he'd show up to arrest them again, like he did on Bracca.

But, no, they just continue doing jobs for Cid in 1.10-1.13. They don't bring him up at all until they see him on Ryloth in 1.12 "Rescue on Ryloth," and again, the tone is like, "Well, Crosshair is here. That's annoying."

If not being able to locate him was the only reason they didn't try to save him after 1.08/1.09, that argument doesn't apply to 1.12 "Rescue on Ryloth." He's there. They know he's there. They're already there doing an extraction job anyway... why don't they just grab him too???

Yes, there would be additional risks, but YOUR BROTHER HAS BEEN KIDNAPPED BY THE EMPIRE AND FORCED TO DO ITS BIDDING, AND YOU DON'T SEEM TO GIVE A SHIT!!!

Which brings us nicely to:

THE DOUBLE STANDARD

Throughout Season 1, but especially in the latter half, we see The Batch putting themselves in harm's way for complete strangers, or at most, friends-of-friends.

They rescue Muchi the Rancor and other people from enslavers; they extract the former Separatist Senator from Raxus; they extract the Syndullas from Ryloth; they break Gregor out of the Imperial base on Daro.

In the latter three cases, the Batch went to Imperial-occupied planets and an Imperial base, despite all the risks involved. And, especially when they saved Gregor, they had very little information going in and basically just winged the entire thing.

It just feels like, when you look at all these cases, any argument the Batch could make for not saving Crosshair just falls apart.

"We didn't know where he was." He was on Ryloth -- grab him then.

"We didn't have enough information." You didn't on Daro, and you still snuck into a heavily fortified Imperial base to rescue Gregor.

"Everyone there would've been trying to kill us." You literally extract/rescue people from Imperial forces for a living...

"It would've endangered Omega." Well, buddy, have I got a story for you...

You see, when Hunter falls on Daro and gets captured, the Batch still comes to his rescue despite knowing it's a trap AND THEY BRING OMEGA WITH THEM!!!

Every excuse they could've made for not saving Crosshair sooner is gone. The Batch will literally run into a trap for Hunter, and they constantly throw themselves into danger to save Omega, but they never do the same for Crosshair.

It really feels like such a double standard.

They seem to care about everyone BUT him.

Plus, sadly, there's one more parallel I can draw. One more instance where the Bad Batch put themselves in harm's way to save a fellow clone who was being mind-controlled by their enemies in an attempt to kill them...

Echo.

Yes, remember all the way back in TCW Season 7, when we find out that Echo is the one behind the algorithm that's giving the Separatists an advantage in all these battles?

Even though Rex thought Echo was dead, the minute he suspects Echo's still alive, he goes after him. He even punches Crosshair over it, after Crosshair bullies Rex for leaving Echo for dead at the Citadel.

One of the "regs" went back for his brother despite knowing his was being mind-controlled by the enemy and forced to attack them.

Rex, Anakin and the Bad Batch save Echo from a terrible fate. They extract him from the Separatists, restore his free will and essentially give him his life back.

Yet, when the exact same thing happens to one of their own, the Batch don't even consider going back for Crosshair the way Rex went back for Echo -- hell, the way they went in for Echo too, even though they didn't know him!!

SOME CONSIDERATIONS

I will give the Batch this: once Crosshair confronts them on Kamino and Hunter stuns him, Hunter decides not to leave Crosshair behind this time. And that was even after Crosshair refused to say when he had his chip removed. So, for all they know, he might've been acting of his own free will when he tried to kill them on Bracca.

While taking Crosshair with them at the end of 1.15 was a step in the right direction, I don't think it was enough to make up for everything they failed to do.

And, while he doesn't specify exactly what, Hunter later admits to Crosshair in 3.05 "The Return" that he has regrets too. And considering the context and the timeframe they're talking about, it's possible Hunter regrets not going back for Crosshair sooner/at all, among other mistakes he's made. (Story for another time.)

I'll also give some consideration to Wrecker, who was the only one of the brothers who said he actively missed Crosshair in 1.03 "The Replacements." Tech mentions Crosshair very flippantly a few times, and Echo doesn't really mention him at all.

Obviously, we'll never know for certain, but I do wonder how Crosshair would've reacted if his brothers had rescued him and removed his chip at some point. Would he have stayed with them? Would he have wanted to rejoin the Empire voluntarily?

Considering he (supposedly) had his chip removed and still stayed with the Empire willingly in-universe, it's possible he might've wanted to do the same thing in an AU where his brothers rescued him.

He definitely despised that they were fugitives and "scavenging like rats," while he had authority, respect and purpose as a soldier of the Empire.

But, I think a large component -- although not the only one -- of why he stays with the Empire is that he felt like his brothers abandoned him. He brings this up several times in 1.15 and 1.16, and the way he does indicates this is a major sore spot for him.

We see in 1.01 "Aftermath" that the chip enhancement procedure is painful. He scrunches his face, flexes his hand and squirms around in the chamber. Plus, the machine itself looks similar to the Mind Flayer from other "Star Wars" properties.

Crosshair was literally being tortured by the Empire. Maybe he doesn't recall that once the procedure's done, but we see him getting his chip enhanced in both 1.01 and 1.03, and it's possible it was enhanced even more times off-screen.

I cannot stress enough: the Empire basically took Crosshair prisoner, tortured him and hijacked his free will.

And his brothers essentially did nothing to save him.

It would be one thing if his brothers were civilians like you and me, and didn't know the first thing about how to infiltrate an Imperial compound or how to navigate a firefight despite being outnumbered.

But, that doesn't apply to The Bad Batch. That's literally their bread-and-butter.

And Crosshair -- especially once he seems to regain his free will between the Bracca and Ryloth arcs -- watched his brothers risk their lives to save complete strangers while doing nothing for him.

I would've been livid too.

Not to sound like Tech, but while I don't agree with Crosshair's decision, I can understand why he decided to stay on Kamino rather than go with them at the end of 1.16. His brothers offered him no real comfort and no real apology, and I think he desperately wanted to hear that, especially from Hunter.

I know after everything that's happened -- especially Crosshair refusing to say when he had his chip removed -- that it would've been hard to admit their mistakes. But, Crosshair wanted to hear something beyond: "You can come with us if you want. And if you don't, we don't have to be enemies."

The closest thing to comfort any of them offer is Omega affirming that, despite everything, she still cared about him. This seems to be the only thing that really effects him, that causes him to doubt his decision, that causes him to show any kind of emotion beyond anger.

I legitimately believe that if someone had talked to Crosshair one-on-one for like five minutes, and really showed how much they still cared about him and always did, that he would've rejoined them.

Granted, it's really hard to tell.

Crosshair has, as Tech said, always been severe and unyielding. Plus, he really suffers from this "in for a penny, in for a pound" kind of mindset, which is partly why he stays with the Empire for so long even after regaining his free will.

But the fact that all his brothers leave him on Kamino again so effortlessly, so easily is just tragic. No final goodbye. No hug. No nothing.

For all any of them know, this could be the last time they ever see each other. (And, for Tech and Crosshair, it was.)

I know it wouldn't have been easy after everything that's happened, but for crying out loud, I just wanted them to try.

And I imagine Crosshair did too.

IN CONCLUSION

Honestly, I think the TBB writers and producers purposely never gave us a scene of The Batch debating whether to go after Crosshair, or a scene of them outlining to us the audience why it wasn't possible even though they wanted to.

I think the creative team wanted us to sympathize with Crosshair when he says "You weren't loyal to me," while also arguably giving our protagonists a weakness to overcome later.

This really seems like the case if we look at Season 2.

Once the Batch finds out Crosshair's being detained by the Empire's Advanced Science Division in 2.14 "Tipping Point," they immediately start discussing whether and why they should try to save him, even after everything that happened between them in S1.

On top of that, this time they actually decide to do whatever it takes to get him back, despite limited intel and the imminent danger behind such an undertaking.

I think the Batch genuinely learned from their mistakes in Season 1 and, as Hunter maybe alludes to in 3.05 "The Return," regretted not going back for Crosshair sooner/at all after the Empire started controlling him.

I'll admit: I think when I first watched Season 1, I was basically in the Batch's corner. Crosshair was gunning for them at every opportunity, and Omega's well-being quickly became their priority (understandably so).

But, after rewatching Season 1 -- especially now that the show is over and we see how everyone's arcs play out -- it really hits me just how much Crosshair's brothers failed him in Season 1.

Again, I'm not saying Crosshair didn't make mistakes too. He definitely did.

But Crosshair's brothers failed him first.

Based on this post (x) by cranity - saw it and had to draw it

Why suffer more?

All I need is the young clone.

She means nothing to you.

Help me, and you’ll have your freedom.

Please Don't Make it Real

Summary:

While on Tantiss, Omega provides Crosshair with news he wasn’t expecting to hear. He isn’t ready for it to be real, but unfortunately the reality of life and death waits for no one.

Or, my take on how Crosshair found out about Tech’s death.

Fandom: The Bad Batch

Rating: M

Word Count: 2,535

I feel like a lot of people (myself included) are curious about how Crosshair may have found out about Tech's death. Here is my angsty take on it!

Shoot Your Shot

Summary: Arlo happens upon Crosshair practising his marksmanship on the beach and he gives her an impromptu lesson.

Fandom: The Bad Batch

Pairing: Crosshair x Original Female Character

Rating: G

Word Count: 4,312

Part 3 of my series, Cross My Heart and Help Me Heal

Hope you enjoy!

A Chance Encounter

Summary: The first time Crosshair meets Arlo outside of the clinic, he’s caught off guard. Persistent as ever, Arlo tries to convince him to let AZI-3 look at his hands. Omega’s mostly here for the treats, but she’s glad her brother found a pretty new friend as well.

Fandom: The Bad Batch

Pairing: Crosshair x Original Female Character

Rating: G

Word Count: 4,335

Part 2 of my series, Cross My Heart and Help Me Heal

Hope you enjoy!

Disobedient Hands

Summary: Wanting to remain useful to The Bad Batch in their fight against the Empire, Crosshair seeks out help for his tremor shortly after arriving on Pabu. What he finds is a bit more than he bargained for, and he realizes sometimes the most important healing is more than physical.

Fandom: The Bad Batch

Pairing: Crosshair x Original Female Character

Rating: T

Word count: 4,681

This fic is the first in a series I am actively writing about Crosshair and my OC, Arlo! All are posted on ao3 and will be a part of my series, Cross My Heart and Help Me Heal

Hope you enjoy!

Omega & Crosshair in STAR WARS: THE BAD BATCH (2021-2024)

Favourite comfort clone reveal (shows you a clone that has never had a day of comfort in his life)

I just drew this because I wanted a silly lil widget on my home screen lol

Not Strong Enough

Written for Angstpril 2024: Alt Prompt #2 - Not Strong Enough

Fandom: The Bad Batch

Character Focus: CX-2, Tech, Crosshair, minor Hunter, Wrecker and Omega

Summary: ‘Not strong enough’ was an unfamiliar phrase for CX-2. Mentally, he was exceptionally strong. His mind was sharper than a knifes edge, his strategy sound, and his fortitude indominable. When that had begun to crack and crumble, he could not fathom. It harkened the return of ‘the other one’, and that was something he could not allow.

graduated from "poor little meow meow" to brat rq

cw flashing lights/strobing imagery