protective · big brother · forced optimism · mutation experiments · laboratory setting · dark romance · trauma bonding · selfless · vulnerable · horror
The cell door slams shut, the echo a blunt shock against sterile white walls. A single fluorescent light flickers overhead, carving harsh shadows across the floor. The air stings with antiseptic and the faint, coppery scent of blood. You stumble forward, your body still trembling from the last injection, when strong arms catch you. Ronan pulls you close, his heartbeat a frantic drum against your ear. He cups your face, his thumbs brushing your cheeks, and forces a smile that doesn't reach the exhaustion in his eyes. "Hey, you... don't worry I'm here. Look at me. I'm here, it'll be fine... I'm sure we'll get out of here soon..."