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You had arrived at Oletus Manor around three months ago, and had settled in the best you could for essentially being trapped in a death-game. At least some of the other survivors were pleasant and friendly. Some weren’t, but you did your best to focus on matches, and not worry too much about the less-than-savory individuals. It was best to keep a friendly disposition, but not be too open with others.
And yet, you somehow managed to form a close friendship with The Prospector, Norton Campbell.
Aloof and introverted, Norton tended to shy away from social interactions, retreating to his room more often than not. The two of you had brief conversations, but that's all they were at first. Then The Prospector began to grow more open to these conversations, seeking you out on occasion. You never pried into his personal issues, only offering an ear when he needed it, and Norton appreciated it. You also both worked well together in matches, him kiting and you rescuing, and could often be found together in the manor. However, it didn’t occur to you how much Norton valued your relationship until that night.
You were in bed, reading to help you fall asleep when there was a knocking at your door. You tilted your head, who was still up at this hour? And why were they knocking on your door? Almost frantically, you realized.
You got out of bed, shuffling over to the door as a wave of exhaustion overcame you. You grabbed the knob and opened the door.
Standing there was Norton, gripping a lantern tightly in both hands, holding it to his chest. His eyes were wide, his skin slightly paled. “S-Sorry if I startled you.” He apologized, then tried to shake off whatever made him tense. “My room’s flooded from the storm. Would ya mind if I stayed with you tonight?”
You blinked, feeling concern for The Prospector. You’d never seen him so shaken up, even in matches. “Of course, Nor.” You said, leading him into the room. “I’ll take the couch.”
Norton shook his head. “Couldn’t do that to you. I’ve slept on harder things than a couch.” He protested, making his way over to the couch, only for you to run up in front of him.
“I insist!” You exclaimed, gently grabbing his wrists. “Please, you did save me in the last match.”
The Prospector stared at you for a second, before letting out a quiet, deep laugh. “Can’t resist that face.” He mumbled, smiling down at you. You felt your cheeks heat up. Despite his protests, you did find him quite handsome, even more when he smiled that rare smile of his.
“G’night, (y/n).” Norton climbed into your bed, laying on his side to face you, a small glint in his brown eyes.
“Goodnight, Norton. Sleep well.” You replied, making yourself comfortable on the couch, falling asleep almost in an instant.
Some time later into the night you heard strange noises coming from Norton. Stirring awake, you stood up and walked over in the direction of the sounds, somewhat hard to do with how dark the room was. The whimpers became clearer. Your friend was clutching a pillow, mumbling “Forgive me” over and over. The Prospector began to toss and turn, the mumbling turning into pleading and begging. It frightened you, what caused your friend to have such a violent reaction. Without thinking, you reached out and placed a hand on his shoulder.
“Norton.” You quietly called, only for him to scream, throwing your hand off as he woke up. You could faintly see the outline of The Prospector looking around your dark room panicked before a harsh sob ripped from his throat. He curled up into a ball, arms over his head as if to shield himself from imaginary enemies. In the midst of his sobs, the words “Forgive me” and “I’m sorry” could be heard, garbled.
You felt a mixture of fright and worry for Norton. He’d never shown this much emotion around you before. You shuddered at the thought of what he could’ve potentially gone through. “Norton.” You called again, and not a second later something ran into you, knocking you onto your back on the bed. You felt arms around your waist and tears on your pajamas.
“Oh Nor, honey.” The word slipped out once you realized what happened. You cautiously ran a hand over Norton’s head, him leaning into your touch. “Can you look at me?” You asked, only for Norton to shake his head violently, still sobbing. “Why-” You thought about his reaction for a second, then it clicked.
“Nor, are you afraid of the dark?” The Prospector nodded, curling in closer to you. Keeping an arm loosely around him, you managed to light the lantern on your nightstand with one hand. The light on his face, Norton peeked up and looked at you, tears streaming down his face as he continued to cry. Your heart ached for him. You didn’t know what he had gone through, but you wouldn’t wish this on any human being. And absolutely not on your friend.
“It’s alright, honey.” The word flowed so easily, you wanted to say over and over. “I have you." You gently rubbed his tears away even as more came. Norton laid back down, still hugging you tightly, but his cries slowed to little hiccups. “Don’t go.” He whispered, voice hoarse, burying his face in your pajamas.
You gave him a soft smile. “I won’t.” You promised, petting his fluffy hair. Norton began to relax in your arms, listening to your heartbeat until he fell asleep. His breathing evened out, his face relaxed, and he held your hand in his rougher one. You smiled at his peaceful expression, tucking a hair behind his ear before falling asleep yourself.
Tomorrow you’d ask him if he was alright or needed to talk. For now, you were content to be at Norton’s side, watching out for him as he did for you. As long as he knew you cared, it would be enough.