Archive of Our Own ^beta

“Commander, do you want butter on the popcorn or not?” Anis calls from the kitchen.

“Sure, Neon.” The Commander calls out to the petite Nikke laying on the floor in front of the television. She’s still staring at the three movie options for tonight. He calls her name again, succeeding in getting her attention.

“Huh? Oh butter is fine. Hey master.” Neon sits up, a DVD box in each hand. “Which one looks like they’d have more firepower. Did movies back then even have firepower or did that get popular after the invasion.”

“People have always been stupid and violent Neon.” Anis scoffs as she punches in the timer on the microwave. “It’s not like Raptures invented guns.”

Anis makes her way from the kitchen into the common room. As usual the Commander’s personal barracks is a hub of activity. But instead of the usual unwanted interruptions, tonight is a welcome gathering.

In a rare bit of free time, that isn’t interrupted, the Commander arranged for his squad to hold movie nights. A way to unwind, relax, and spend time with those closest with him. This will be their first one, with many more to follow.

Anis sits back on the wide leather couch, leaning against one arm while the commander sits against the other. Anis throws her legs on the couch using the middle as a footrest.

“Hey Commander.” Anis wiggles her toes. “How about a foot massage.”

The Commander fake gags getting a laugh from Anis.

“I’ve decided.” Neon stands up holding a blue box whose color matches the pajamas she’s wearing. “This one will do.”

“Why?” Anis asks. “There’s no explosions or stuff on the cover. Where’s the firepower?”

As his two friends talk, the Commander pulls his phone from his pocket. Rapi usually isn’t the kind to run late and he’s wondering where she’s been.

“The film is called Sparks Fly. So it has to be filled with action.”

“That’s not- oh whatever. Commander do you- hey.” Anis jabs his side with her foot. “What are you doing. Is someone trying to interrupt us. I told you to put your phone on silent. Something annoying and stupid always happens at times like this.”

“I did mute it, and I’m just wondering where Rapi is. I was just going to message her.”

“Dude, don’t worry about that.” Anis grins. “Rapi told me she’s on her way. She’s got a surprise for youuuuu. She picked out some special pajamas just for tonight.”

“Really?”

The commander looks down at his own outfit. He isn’t particular about his sleep clothes and simply wears the white t-shirt and loose black pants the military provided him. He figured Rapi would do the same, but the idea of her wearing something unique makes his heart flutter.

Anis is wearing a flashy buttoned shirt with musical notes and matching shorts. Will Rapi be dressed like that or just a simple solid color choice like Neon’s.

The Commander turns his head towards his bedroom. Maybe he can find something more lively to wear. A knock on the door tells him there’s no time for that.

“That must be Rapi.” Anis hops off the couch and makes for the front door. “Hey girl, what took you? Getting cold feet?”

“No,” Rapi steps into the room. "Hello, everyone."

“Rapi.” Neon cries. “Where’s your PJs?”

Taking a better look, the Commander sees Rapi is wearing her usual attire. The white blouse with black skirt and jacket doesn’t exactly seem like sleepwear.

“Actually.” Rapi pulls an Elysion duffel bag off her shoulder. “I planned to change into my clothes here. If you’ll excuse me.”

Rapi makes her way to the bathroom as the microwave dings.

“Oh good timing.” Anis says to herself. “I was already up.”

“I’m going to put the movie.” Neon approaches the old video player.

The outpost doesn’t get reliable signal from the Ark so the Commander thought it’d be prudent to find something that didn’t need signal. Inspired by a chat with Rapi about the use of older technology, the Commander secured an old video player. Electric Shock fixed it up for free, but added some unwanted features.

“BOOM!” The electronic voice cheers as the 8bit theme plays.

“Just hit the skip button.” The Commander sighs.

Doing so, Neon is able to skip past Elegg’s gift and to the opening credits of the film. Satisfied with her work, Neon nods to herself and sits down on the couch beside the Commander.

“Hey.” Anis says, bowl of popcorn cradled in her arms. “The heck do you think your doing? That’s Rapi’s spot. You go lay on the floor.”

“Awwww c’mon Anis, have a heart. The floor isn’t comfortable.” Neon points to something behind the couch. “Besides Rapi brought a pillow so she’d be fine on the floor.”

Following Neon’s finger, the Commander’s eyes are led to the newly emerged Rapi. She tucks what does seem to be a pillow behind her back. But he's too fixated on Rapi herself.

The first thing that catches his eye is the pink. Rapi loves red and usually wears that as a primary color. Her loose jacket and shorts are a warm cherry-blossom pink. She wears a thin black negligee as a top, and despite his best efforts the Commander can’t turn away. The midsection is so thin he’s able to see Rapi’s sculpted torso. Scarred and toned from life of fighting on the surface.

She’s stunning.

Butter and salt run across the commanders taste buds. Anis has tossed a kernel of popcorn in his mouth.

“Be careful Commander.” Anis says with a sly smile on her face. “You shouldn’t let your jaw hang open like that, a bug may fly in.”

The commander closes his mouth, munching on the popcorn and trying to pull his eyes from Rapi.

“Commander.” Rapi seems to glide towards the couch, pulling her jacket back onto her shoulders. “Are you alright with me leaving my bag and change of clothes in the bathroom?”

“Of course. Do you want to leave that with it?” The Commander points to the pillow.

“No, I’ll use it while I sit on the floor.”

“Nuh-uh, you’re on the couch. Neon beat it.” Anis hisses, tossing some popcorn at the Elysion spy.

“Gah, fine. Let’s just start the movie.” Neon moves towards the light switch beside the television.

“Rapi sit.” Anis pushes the redhead into the now open spot beside the Commander.

“Hello Commander.” Rapi smiles, her eyes unable to meet his. She smells nice, like freshly washed sheets and summer flowers. Its intoxicating.

The commander knows he's staring, but he can't seem to tun his head from the beauty beside him. Thankfully the lights are flipped off, and the only light is from the dim glow of the television.

“Okay, I’m hitting play now.” Neon announces, settling back to the floor.

The Commander manages to turn his eyes towards the screen. The lively opening credits are accompanied with century old CGI and jazzy music. He’s not really paying attention, while he’s staring at the screen he remains hyper aware of just how close his thigh is next to Rapi's.

A quick glance to his side shows Rapi is stiffly sitting with her hands folded in her lap. She’s nervous.

“Hey this isn’t a horror movie is it?” Commander asks.

“No.” Anis says through a mouthful of food. “Rapi already made sure there wouldn’t be anything like that.”

“Anis.” Rapi hisses.

“Oh, lighten up. Here.” Anis pushes the bowl of popcorn into Rapi’s lap. “Share this with the Commander.”

“Where’s my popcorn?” Neon asks.

Anis responds by throwing popcorn at Neon. Rapi scoots closer to the Commander, her leg now pressed against his.

“Would you like some?”

“Yes.”

The Commander reaches down into the bowl, grabbing a handful when something soft bumps into his hand.

Rapi jerks her arm back sending kernels flying to the floor.

“Sorry.” The two say in unison.

“I was hoping to get you some popcorn, I didn’t think you’d just reach in.”

“Oh.” It’s a bit odd she didn’t expect that, but the Commander doesn’t say anything. He enjoys the popcorn, a bit too buttery for his liking but not too bad.

“Commander, I could feed you the popcorn. If you’d like.”

He’s frozen, mid bite, slowly turning towards Rapi. The room is silent, and to make matters worse, the movie was in the middle of a silent scene, making it so everyone could hear what Rapi said. The Commander swallows his food.

‘I could feed you.’ The words echo in his head, and an image starts taking form in his head.

“That was a joke.” Rapi says flatly.

Characters in the film begin talking, filling the silence in the room.

The Commander laughs a good distracting from the growing heat in his cheeks.

“Commander, I didn’t think the joke was that funny.” Anis mumbles.

“It wasn’t.” He agrees. Rapi seems to shrink into the couch. “What I mean is, it’s nice to see you act this way. You’re relaxed, and playful, I really like this new side of you.”

Rapi crosses her ankles over each other while Anis smirks.

“Hear that Rapi?” Anis needles. “The Commander likes this new side of you, how’s that make you feel?”

“Hey keep it down.” Neon says. “I’m trying to watch the film.”

Anis narrows her eyes at Neon and takes a deep breath through her nose.

“Okay.” The Tetra Nikke stands up and stretches her arms. “I’m tired, Neon and I are gonna go to bed.”

“What, but the movie just started.” Neon protests as Anis begins to pick her up by the arm. “And I’m not tired.”

“Sure you are.” Anis says, her fingers seem to grip tighter around Neon’s arm. “Now go get ready, I’m grabbing a last bit of popcorn.”

Neon, clearly annoyed, still obeys and makes towards the door. Anis comes to the couch leaning over to Rapi and whispers something into her ear. Whatever it is makes Rapi chew her lower lip anxiously.

“Anyways.” Anis scoops up some popcorn. “You two have fun tonight, make the most of it.”

“Bye Master, bye Rapi.” Neon waves as she heads out the door.

Soon the two are gone leaving just the Commander and Rapi together. He’s not sure why Anis was so adamant about this night if she is just going to leave early. Maybe he did something wrong. Rapi's sitting rigidly in her seat as if she's uncomfortable. The atmosphere is more awkward than he’d expect with someone he knows as well as Rapi.

Hoping to salvage the mood, he clears his throat.

“Hey Rapi. I don’t think I told you yet, but you look really good in your pajamas.”

A lovely smile blossoms on Rapi’s face. She turns to face him, showing him the full brilliance of her smile. The soft curl of her lips, the cute way the corner of her eyes crinkles when she grins. The Commander’s heart thunders in his chest.

“That makes me happy to hear, especially coming from you. I think your outfit is good too.”

“It’s kinda plain.” He gestures at his white shirt.

“I think it suits you.”

“Are you saying I’m plain?” The Commander says with a faux gasp and hand to his chest.

Rapi's eyes widen. “No of course not, Commander you’re-”

“That was a joke.” The Commander laughs.

Rapi scoffs but can’t hide the smile on her face. Eventually she is unable to restrain her own laugh. It’s lovely, like the clear twinkling of a silver bell. She leans into the Commander as she laughs. Rapi’s head is at the perfect level to rest on his shoulder, a notion that sends an electric tingle down his arms.

The Commander distracts himself by taking some popcorn from the bowl. He notices the space on the couch behind Rapi, with just the two of them there’s so much space.

“Rapi if you need there’s more space on the couch.”

Rapi’s face twinges with pain, striking the Commander in his heart.

“Wait. I worded that wrong.” He swallows, carefully choosing his words. “I meant that if you were uncomfortable, or wanted more space you didn’t have to be so close to me.”

Rapi exhales, letting the hurt fade from her expression. “I’m glad you explained it. You should be careful with your words Commander.”

He chuckles awkwardly.

“But I’m perfectly comfortable here, with you.”

“Really?” The Commander smiles as her words touch his heart.

Rather than say anything, Rapi smiles. She reaches behind her body and pulls her pillow out. She holds it up before her face, and with the light from the TV he can make out the word ‘YES’ stitched into the fabric. She peeks over the top of the pillow her eyes crinkling in joy.

His own smile spreads so much it hurts his cheeks. Rapi is acting so cute, but he might have to explain to her what ‘yes’ pillow means…

The Commander stops he looks at Rapi’s outfit one more time. The see through fabric around her midriff. The fact the two are alone. How close she is to him and fresh linen scent of her clothes. She tucks the pillow behind her revealing a red face as her fingers drum against the popcorn bowl.

Is she…

‘Make the most of it.’ Anis’s words echo.

The Commander leans in, praying he’s not making a mistake. He takes Rapi’s hand in his. There’s a sticky texture from the buttery popcorn, but her hands are soft and her fingers wrap around his. Her skin is rough but cradles him gently.

“Your hands, they’re so warm.” Rapi mutters, tilting his head toward his.

His heart threatens to burst from his chest.

“Commander.” There’s uncertainty in her voice, giving him pause. “Would you…feed me some popcorn.

He nods shakily, his mind racing through thousands of scenarios. He reaches his other hand out, plucking a single piece of popcorn from the bowl. He brings it to her lips which gently part with a soft ‘ah.’ He places the kernel on her tongue before pulling back. Her mouth closes, her lips sealing around the tip of his finger. Warm and soft, it feels nice. It’s not the first time a Nikke has sucked on his finger, but this is different. There’s no greed or hunger, Rapi holds onto him with a gentle embrace that’s intoxicating to the Commander. Reluctantly, he pulls his finger free with a soft pop.

The pair stare at each other motionless. When did their faces get so close? There’s about 100 different regulations strictly forbidding the idea forming in his head. It could also ruin their relationship as squad mates, more importantly, as friends. But neither pull away. The commander watches for any sign of hesitation from Rapi as he closes the distance between their lips.

“Sorry.” Rapi says.

Commander stops, pulling his head back in case he does something he would regret.

“I…don’t think I’m ready for more than this.” She frowns. “I apologize.”

“I understand.”

“It’s not that I don’t want to.” Rapi admits. “I’m just... this is all new to me.”

“Rapi.” The commander gently cradles Rapi’s cheek. She nuzzles into it, closing her eyes. Her skin is so smooth. “I understand, and I’m glad you told me. I’d never want to make you uncomfortable.”

“I know.” She says serenely. Her eyes fluttering open. “That’s why I…feel this way about you…Commander…dammit.” She laughs. “You’re so kind, it’s making me want to try…”

“Only if you feel ready. I can wait.” The Commander assures her.

They stare at each other for a moment longer.

“Ask me.” Rapi says, her jacket slipping off her shoulder. “Ask me if I want to kiss you.”

The commander’s breath is shaky, part of him can’t wait. He’s wanted this so badly. But not until he’s sure. Not until he gets a definite ‘yes.’

“Rapi, can I kiss you?”

Rapi smiles, with her free hand pulling the pillow up. She leans back to hide behind the pillow, flashing the commander with the large ‘YES’ stitched on it.

“Kiss me.” Rapi says dropping the pillow. Her eyes are closed and lips pressed together, slightly parted in the middle.

Commander leans forward, slowly reclaiming the distance lost moments ago. His head is calm; in the back of his mind he knows there will be consequences and a million things could go wrong. But right here, she wants to kiss him, and he wants to kiss her. The rest can wait.

As he nears her lips, he closes his eyes. Trusting himself to find the rest of the-

BANG! BANG! BANG!

The moment is shattered by a violent hammering from the front door. The sudden cacophony sends the pair to either end of the couch. Emotions swell in the Commander’s chest before frustration rises to the top. This always happens, he’s interrupted by someone whenever-

An imposing woman’s voice calls out his full name and rank. Anger falls to dread, everyone in the outpost either has a pet name for him or calls him by rank. The only person he knows who addresses him this way is-

“Ingrid.” The Commander mutters. He shoots to his feet adjusting his clothes to make him look presentable. “Rapi are you-”

Rapi has curled up into a ball, knees tucked to her chest. Her bright red ears give away the flush face she tries to hide behind the ‘YES’ pillow. The Commander’s mind clears at the sight of how adorable she is.

The banging continues dragging him back to the present. He races towards the door, pulling it open. It’s only when it is to late does he realize he’s still in his pajamas.

Stood before him is the towering Elysion CEO, she’s dressed in her usual white coat and attire. Behind her, holding a briefcase by her side, is Privaty. She gasps, and seems to run her eyes across the Commander’s body before turning away. Ingrid’s reaction is more intimidating, her fist is raised, caught in the middle of banging on the door. With the level of rage in Ingrid’s eyes, he worries that fist may begin knocking on his skull.

“I’m glad you’re making yourself comfortable Commander.” Ingrid seethes, her fist mercifully lowering to her side. “Based on your attire I’d assume I caught you resting. Well, I’m glad you’re well rested, because I have a job for you.”

Ingrid invites herself in, stepping into the barracks. Privaty follows suit, silently flicking the light switch on. The Commander raises a hand to shield his eyes from the sudden light, as the white fades he finds the new arrivals staring towards the couch.

Rapi has unfurled herself and sits stiffly on the couch. The pillow is in her lap with its message clearly visible. Her face is a worrying shade of red, her eyes wide staring in horror at Ingrid.

The Commander looks between Rapi and the two women. Privaty is stunned, mouth agape as the briefcase handle starts slipping from her fingers. Ingrid steps towards Rapi, leaning down to get a better look. She strokes her chin as she inspects each aspect of Rapi’s outfit.

Ingrid straightens up, folding her arms over her chest and giving a nod.

“Not bad Rapi. You’ve equipped yourself accordingly to the situation. Pick the tools and techniques best suited for the encounter. Very tactical.”

“Encounter?” Prviaty gasps, finally finding her voice. “Boss you-”

“Shut it.” Ingrid says striding back to Privaty.

Privaty obeys, lowering her eyes to the floor. Ingrid takes the briefcase from her subordinate and holds it out to the Commander.

“I was trying to contact you for the past half hour.”

“I turned my phone on silent.” The Commander admits, hesitantly taking the briefcase.

“I see. Well, these requisition forms were filled out improperly. Do them over and make sure they’re done properly. As a matter of fact. Rapi.”

At the call of her name the red Nikke straightens up.

“You will stay here with the Commander until his task is complete. I expect good news by the time these forms are back on my desk. Understood?”

“Yes, boss.”

“Good. Privaty, we’re leaving.”

Privaty takes one last forlorn look at the pajama clad Counters before slinking away with Ingrid.

After the footsteps fade from earshot the Commander lets out a deep breath. He still can’t believe this happened. Ingrid isn’t a fool and even a fool could tell what was happening. Even still she didn’t blow up at the Commander for his ‘fraternization’ with an Elysion Nikke.

Dazed, the Commander walks back to the couch, leaving the briefcase by one of the wooden legs. He plops down beside Rapi and the pair sit in stunned silence.

After sometime Rapi throws herself into the back cushions of the couch.

“I wish I still had my NIMPH.” She says staring up at the ceiling. “That way I could have them mind wipe this moment.”

The Commander chuckles. “Yeah, that was pretty embarrassing. Still, I would never want to forget tonight.”

Rapi turns her head to face the Commander. The color in her cheeks has begun to settle, now just a warm pink like her jacket.

“I’m sorry Commander.”

“Don’t be.” He scoots closer to her, gingerly taking her hand in his. He runs a thumb along the back of her hand as he gazes into the tender eyes of Rapi. “I really like you Rapi. We don’t have to rush, we can do whatever you’re comfortable with.”

Rapi is silent as her smile crinkles her eyes. “And if I don’t know what I want?”

“I can wait.”

Rapi closes the distance, the pair now sitting shoulder to shoulder.

“Right now, I don’t want to do anything hasty. But I’d like to sit here with you and rest.”

“I can do that.”

Rapi leans her head on his shoulder and closes her eyes.

The Commander smiles, still not sure if this is smart to do, but right now it feels good.

The commander closes his eyes, and soon falls asleep.

Tomorrow he will welcome the morning with Rapi by his side.