#bad batch echo

My latest fic. Echo a female reader.

Some time after believing you had lost a love during the war, you reunite with him, although he is no longer the same as they once were

Reunion - CrisChem - Star Wars: The Bad Batch (Cartoon) [Archive of Our Own]

Since the fall of the Republic and the rise of the Empire, you've led a double life as a doctor. During the Clone Wars, you worked treating soldiers traveling to and from the front. Your work back then was grueling, as the campaigns and battles were endless. During those campaigns, the lines of soldiers requiring medical attention were heartbreaking. The clones' endurance and resilience were truly admirable. You knew their genetics had been modified for this purpose, but they were still exhausted and sick men who, day after day, gave their all for a system that, selfishly, had them manufactured by the millions.

Your heart broke every time one of them didn't return, which happened more often than you cared to admit. There came a point when, for your own sanity, you stopped keeping track of the losses of those brave men. You had forged friendships with many of them. Among them were the men of the 501st. Captain Rex and his men were great guys. You were assigned to General Skywalker's battalion after the horrific Battle of Geonosis, from which many did not return.

Wherever they went, your medical tent was set up. At that time, there were six of you civilian medics plus the clone troopers themselves. Commemorations for the lost were held weekly whenever possible. Toasts to fallen comrades or outings to a local bar to drown your sorrows were more common than you would have liked. On one of those outings, the mixture of alcohol, sadness, and sexual tension that had developed over time between you led you to take ARC Trooper Echo to a corner. You devoured each other with kisses for the rest of the night. In the following days, you met alone several more times in secluded corners of Kamino. Stolen kisses when you could and a growing mutual desire… and then came the Citadel mission. Echo did not return. Your heart shattered into pieces. Pieces so small you doubted you could ever put it back together.

You focused on your work. You and Fives spent long hours talking about Echo whenever you could. You found comfort in his company because of how well he knew him. Despite all of them being clones and looking remarkably alike, Fives was his twin, and you saw in him a piece of Echo's soul. But it wasn't him. There could never be anything with his brother. With any of them. It hurt too much.

The days piled up as sadness drove you from mission to mission, from patient to patient. All with his face, all with his eyes. But none with his soul or his gaze.

Then you lost Fives too. The absence of the two troublemakers of the group was keenly felt in the 501st's morale. Their brothers had lost their characteristic spark. Even Jesse and Hardcase had a sad, lost look in their eyes. You'd find them in the mess hall, pensive, even grumpy. You didn't sit with them as often anymore; you didn't have the strength.

One day, Rex came to find you in the infirmary after a difficult mission on Anaxes. He was overflowing with joy, euphoric, but with a touch of sadness in his eyes. He told you about Echo's rescue. He was alive! He also described the state the Techno Union had left him in. You longed to see him. Your withered heart had been revived. When you asked about him, he told you that he had joined Clone Force 99. It was a squad of modified clones, different from the others. These differences made Echo feel more at ease now that he had changed so much. He stayed with them because he needed to find his place after so long.

You couldn't understand. You didn't know why he hadn't returned to his squad. Why he hadn't come back to you. The immense joy of knowing he was alive contrasted sharply with the disappointment of his leaving with another squad. You longed for him. Your romance had been truly brief, but your feelings for him had left a deep mark on you. You had to be patient. You knew how loyal he was to Rex. It was only a matter of time before he returned to his older brother. However, a long time passed. The hope of seeing him again grew more and more distant.

On that fateful day, the 501st split in two. You were sent to Coruscant with General Skywalker. Rex, Jesse, and the others boarded the Venator with Ahsoka. It would be the last time you saw most of your closest friends. That day, the entire squadron, except for Rex and Kix, perished. After Order 66, you completely severed all ties with the clones and the Empire. You spent a long time in hiding, trying to stay out of sight, recovering from so much pain. Days blended into nights, and all you wanted was to disappear. You sank into a state of dormancy, and the tears you shed didn't seem to ease the pain in your soul. You stayed alive by inertia, barely aware of the time that had passed since the loss of your boys. If only he were here…

A friend who worked with you contacted you after several weeks. He persisted and helped you climb out of that hole you were in, until you were practically a different person. Eventually, you talked about opening your own clinic in one of the mid-level buildings in the capital. At least the initial hustle and bustle kept you entertained and distracted until the business started to take off. Then the routine swallowed you whole.

Apparently, the chosen location wasn't far from the workshop where Rex had started the clandestine clone network. Kix had joined him after being rescued on one of Clone Force 99's missions. But Echo didn't return with him. The clone brotherhood was growing daily, and Rex and Kix were truly overwhelmed.

One afternoon, after work, you headed to your small apartment as usual. Your mind wandered, disconnected from the reality your body was experiencing. You followed your daily route automatically, oblivious to the shadow several steps behind you. Suddenly, a hand grabbed your arm, feigning familiarity. You tried to struggle against the stranger who held you so tightly, but a voice from beneath the hood stopped you in your tracks.

"I'm Rex, please keep walking," he said, glancing briefly into your eyes.

As you turned a corner, you entered a practically deserted street. The captain looked into your eyes, a familiar smile playing on his lips.

"Rex!! What…? How…?" you exclaimed, throwing your arms around him.

After a moment of shared comfort, he gently pulled away. It had been a long time since you'd seen him. You didn't even know if he was still alive, since any clone who didn't work for the Empire was immediately arrested.

"One of the guys told me he saw you, and I had to confirm. I'm so glad to see you're okay."

"Oh, Rex... I'm so sorry... Rex, I..." The harsh reality hit them both. Tears welled in your eyes, and a comforting embrace held you both for several minutes. There were practically few left of what had once been one of the Republic's finest battalions.

Together, you headed to the hangar they used as their base of operations and caught up. It turned out that many clones were deserting the Empire, and some were contacting Rex through a series of secure channels to join the fight. Their numbers were growing every day. After that long conversation, you felt the need to help them, so he gave you a communicator to stay in touch.

Sometimes, after work, you would go to the workshop where Rex had established the base for the clones. On Coruscant, right under the nose of the Empire itself. There, the rebel clone cell was developing and growing. You were advised that, to avoid raising suspicion, you should only go once or twice a week unless you were needed for something urgent.

After a couple of weeks, you received one of those calls:

"Doctor, we need you to come as soon as you can," Rex told you urgently.

As soon as your shift ended, you went to the command post where Rex was waiting for you.

"Several wounded brethren have arrived from a rescue, and Kix can't handle them all."

You went inside, leaving your jacket on a table at the entrance, and approached the area they had set up as an nursing with the first-aid kit you had brought. You saw Kix in front of a clone whose head he was stitching and whose foot was extremely swollen. There were four more clones in a different line, waiting to be seen. You went around to each of them, asking about their injuries and deciding which one to start with. You chose a nasty wound on the elbow of a soldier named Freich, a nasty cut between the plates of his Imperial armor. After stitching it up and checking the soldier's vital signs, you moved on to the next. A blaster burn on his thigh. Imperial armor didn't seem as good as the armor the clones wore during the Republic… A good disinfection and a bacta patch would be enough to make it heal properly.

Kix, meanwhile, was attending to another clone in his line with a double break in his arm. The other two clones you had left weren't much of a problem, as they had bruises and superficial wounds. So, when you finished, you went to help Kix with his line. He still had two men to attend to. One had several broken ribs, and aside from bandaging him and putting him on a couple of weeks' rest with painkillers, there wasn't much else he could do.

"I see you're still helping the clones, even though we're renegades now," his voice said, sending a chill down your spine.

A voice behind you made you turn around, and the sight was a shock. Both legs were implanted, his right arm had a scromp mechanism, and a device covered his back parietal region, from ear to ear. Pale and gaunt. But those enormous eyes were looking at you with affection. Those eyes. You'd already heard what had happened to him, but seeing him in person was different…

"Echo?" you asked, surprised.

"I've changed a bit, but I'm still me…" His left hand scratched the back of his neck, looking somewhat embarrassed.

You practically jumped into his arms and gave him a tremendous hug. He was quite taken aback by your reaction, unsure of what to do. Finally, he hugged you back shyly. You'd given up hope of ever seeing him again after he transferred squads. Now he was back...

"It's so good to see you, Echo! I heard you were rescued, but it's been quite a while. You're finally here, with your brothers."

"Well, those I left with are also my brothers. Now I have two families, and the truth is, I'll go back and forth between them. Wherever they need me to fight against the Empire." His eyes still held that special gleam. That boundless desire to fight, fueled by a kind soul.

"You've always been an idealist," you said, giving his arm a gentle squeeze.

"Many physical things may have changed, but that's something they can never take away from me. On the contrary, now my desire to fight is stronger." Echo smiled, his eyes lighting up as he spoke of his fight against what he considered just.

"There are more of you every day," you said, looking around. In the workshop, several clones were working on different tasks, from repairing vehicles and weapons to filtering data received from the Empire.

"And others who continue working for the Empire and help us. They risk their lives every day. There are also other cells on other planets; we're establishing joint attack plans. Uniting."

"I'm glad more and more clones are realizing the truth. We could grab a drink to catch up, if you'd like."

He seemed quite nervous at the idea of ​​being alone with you. Echo's confidence as a warrior had increased considerably since his rescue from Purkoll, but interpersonal relationships were a different story, especially with women. His throat felt dry instantly, and his tongue felt as if he'd eaten sand from the Tatooine desert.

"Uh... I..." The mechanical arm twitched a couple of times involuntarily due to his nervousness. He scratched the back of his neck with his other hand. "I won't be here long. Rex is organizing another rescue mission, and I need to get the Remora ready so we can leave."

"All the more reason for coffee, Echo. It's been a long time, and there are many more to come. I need to reminisce about the good times with someone other than Rex and Kix."

Echo couldn't refuse. Even so, a cold sweat trickled down his back. To be honest, he'd seen Rex and the others several times, and when he learned you occasionally worked with them, he'd been avoiding you. When you joined them, he started wondering if you'd be around every time he planned to show up. He was terrified of facing you with the modifications you'd undergone. This time, you appeared because of Rex's urgent call, and someone forgot to tell him... The encounter was inevitable.

"Are you doing anything now?" you asked, leaving him completely speechless. "Echo? Come back, you've left." The pallor of his face intensified for a second before it began to glow with an intense red. His breath caught in his chest, and a sharp pain gripped his lungs, preventing him from exhaling.

"Yes, uhmmm… yes, sorry." Uhh… No, I don't have any plans right now – his tongue was playing tricks on him. It was precisely this reaction from his treacherous body that he was trying to avoid at all costs.

"Shall we grab a speeder and sneak off for a while?" Your yearning gaze stirred conflicting emotions within him. On one hand, he desperately wanted to spend time with you, but his legs yearned to run to avoid potential rejection. The multiple, awful experiences he'd had drinking with his new crew flashed through his mind. Women avoided eye contact with him, so physical contact was completely out of the question.

The last time you'd slipped away from the bustle of that pub, you'd ended up tangled in a corner of the 79... The memories of your lips on his skin, your hands caressing him, and your warm whispers in his ear mingled with the sting of rejection. A cold sweat broke out on the cyborg. Noticing his insecurities, you stroked his arm and took his hand, pulling him along to get a speeder. Seeing how hesitant he was, you took the initiative for both of you. You asked Rex which vehicle you could take to get something to eat, and you took the one he indicated.

"Don't draw too much attention to yourselves," he advised. "There's a fairly discreet café in the next sector."

"I know I'm conspicuous, Captain, I'll be careful," Echo said, lowering his head, visibly embarrassed.

"I didn't mean it like that, Echo. You're a clone in a non-Imperial uniform..."

Kix approached, having overheard the conversation.

"Put on one of the everyday uniforms we have from other brothers, that way no one will notice you."

"Good suggestion, Kix. I'll be right back, I'm going to change."

A little while later he reappeared in an Imperial Gray uniform. Despite not being at all in favor of the symbolism of the clothes he was wearing, you found him truly irresistible.

"For someone who isn't a supporter of the Empire, it really suits you. Come on, let's go." You pulled him toward the speeder while the captain and the doctor exchanged a knowing smile.

Echo drove to a small café where some clones occasionally stopped. Upon entering, you went to a table in the back so that no one would notice you or have any trouble if someone asked you questions. You ordered two coffees and spent a pleasant time catching up on everything that had happened during your time apart. At first, Echo found it very difficult to feel comfortable, but you had spent so much time together for years that it was easy to rekindle your connection. You talked about the 501st and the old days. One coffee turned into several sodas and a couple of beers. Night had already fallen on Coruscant when you returned to the workshop.

"I just need to pick up my briefcase. I'm on call all day tomorrow at the clinic, and it's gotten a bit late. Are you sleeping here?"

"No, my ship is docked at a nearby pier. I really feel at home there. The other clones have taken apartments or are staying in a warehouse that serves as a barracks around here. Do you want me to take you to your apartment? I'll take the speeder to the Remora; it's no trouble."

"Thank you very much, Echo, always so gentlemanly. That hasn't changed either." You gave him a tender smile that made the clone blush.

You got back on the motorcycle with the briefcase, and you gave him your address. It was a humble sector of the enormous city, though quite safe compared to other areas of Coruscant.

" "Thanks for bringing me, Echo. I've missed you so much. I'm so glad to see you. I hope it won't be so long before we meet again." You kissed his thin cheek, almost at the corner of his lips.

"Uh, I'll be around this week before I leave with Rex," he said, his face red.

"I won't be at the command post for another two or three rotations; I'm pretty busy at the clinic. Hope to see you soon," you said, gently touching his hand.

Your heart pounded as you walked home. Echo had always been special to you, and despite the changes he'd undergone, you still found him as sexy as ever. You were so happy to see him again… you just hoped he felt the same way. The day had been a whirlwind of emotions; the reunion had rekindled a warmth in your heart that had faded after the Citadel. The modifications they had made to Echo were terrible, though without them he wouldn't have survived. In a way, you had to thank the Techno Union's horrific science for keeping him alive. Perhaps this time you had another chance to continue what you couldn't before…

You spent the following days longing to return to the clones and see him. Your friend had noticed a substantial change in your usual mood. She had already noticed it when you told her about Echo's recovery, even though he hadn't returned, and this time you were radiant. Your eyes sparkled, and you went everywhere with a silly grin, floating in a constant daydream. That was the amazing person she had once known, not the withered flower you had become lately.

Three very long days later, you told Rex that he needed to check on the clones you had healed days before to see how they were doing. The truth is, you didn't need an excuse to stop by the workshop to see your friends and patients, but now you felt like you had to justify going there and trying to see Echo again.

“Good afternoon, Kix," you said as you entered. "Are my patients ready?"

"Yes, I've spoken with the less severe cases and checked them myself. I hope you don't mind."

"No way, I'm tired. I haven't slept well for several days, and the on-call shifts haven't helped," you sighed, releasing some tension. You couldn't help but scan the hangar quickly for your favorite clone.

"If you want, go home and rest. I have more free time than you do."

"Since I'm here, I'd like to take charge. You'll have to plan things with Rex for the mission. Are you going?" Every time they went on a mission, your heart sank with apprehension that one of them might not return. After years of working with them, that had happened far too often…

"That's the idea, since you come around here from time to time." A soldier is more needed now than a medic sitting around all day, besides, on a mission like this, it's good to have a medic available with them.

"Great, well then I'll go check on the guys, they're waiting for me, right?" Kix nodded for you to go to the nursing.

After confirming they were progressing as expected, you approached Rex to see if he could give you more information about the mission and how long it would take.

"Supposedly, it's an intelligence gathering operation at an ancient Kaminoan complex to learn more about cloning technology. Clone Force 99 has given us information that we want to complete and verify about a beast they encountered. One identical to the one that attacked Coruscant during the Clone Wars."

"The enormous creature that attacked the Chancellor? If we had known then…you could have let it devour him."

"Hahaha," Rex laughed sincerely, "that's true."

"If there's anything else I can help with, just let me know. I have to place an order for medicine and supplies at the clinic. Do you need anything?"

"Are you sure your friend doesn't mind investing in us?" Rex was confused.

"She can't help you in the long run because of her family, but she agrees with what I'm doing, and this is her way of helping you. Rex, you're very important to us, you know that," you placed a hand on his arm, "after everything you've been through, it's the least we can do."

"You already do a lot, but anyway, talk to Kix if she needs anything. By the way, I need to ask you a favor. Echo is very reluctant to have the checkup that Kix usually gives us. Last time, as soon as he approached her with the scanner and the needle, she panicked and attacked him. I don't know if you'll be able to get it done." You two have always gotten along well… - Rex gave you a knowing look.

"What are you implying, Rex?" you asked, feigning offense as a blush spread across your cheeks.

"Nothing, nothing. Let's see if you can pull it off, okay?" He winked at you. "Look, here comes the star of the show." Rex left, leaving you two alone.

Echo had come so one of the engineers could adjust his head implant. It was producing a very annoying buzzing sound and kept coming loose, causing chafing on the back of his neck when he wore his helmet

"Can I fix it for you after they've adjusted it?" you suggested with a smile.

Echo hesitated before answering, feeling very embarrassed about having his implants inspected. Especially you, since you had known him in his prime and now he was so insecure around everyone.

"Are you sure?" "Don't you have better things to do?" he asked, his eyes filled with anguish.

"No, I really want to do it, if you don't mind." Seeing your pleading expression, Echo couldn't refuse.

"I'll let you know when Kyne finishes adjusting it," the cyborg finally conceded with a sigh of defeat.

"Great, I'll be with Kix," a huge, triumphant smile spread across your face, and you patted his arm to reassure him.

After a good while of adjustments by Kyne, the engineer managed to stop the buzzing from Echo's equipment from bothering him. Sighing with relief from the horrible headache caused by that annoying noise, getting rid of it was wonderful. He approached you, looking a bit more cheerful.

"It's adjusted now, Kyne did a great job." His heart was pounding wildly in his chest, completely nervous about his medical exam.

"Great, come with me," you said gently, calmly heading towards the medical area. You just hoped he'd relax enough to do what Rex had asked.

You went to the nursing, where you helped him sit on a cot. The white, disinfected environment began to make Echo nervous, but he tried to remain calm. His pulse quickened due to the medical examination and your proximity. You stood behind him and examined the implant placement. He was breathing shallowly, his head slightly tilted.

"Echo, are you okay?" you asked, standing in front of him.

"Not really. Since Purkoll, the medical experiences have been a nightmare. I can only think of the images there. Their faces. Their coldness." You noticed his breathing becoming faster despite his efforts.

"Listen to me, I'm here to help you. If you feel like you can't go on, just let me know, okay? If you want, I can describe what I'm going to do and what I'm going to use so you can feel more at ease, is that alright?" Your tone softened, and you placed a hand on his shoulder to reassure him.

"Okay," he said, taking a deep breath. He looked into your eyes, and the affection he saw there gave him more confidence. He knew you were willing to help him in any way you could. It wasn't that Kix wasn't understanding with him; it was just that the energy you gave him was different.

"It's not that Kix wasn't understanding with him; it's just that the energy you gave him was different."

"Okay." You positioned yourself behind him again and spoke to him calmly, explaining that you were going to disinfect the abrasions and apply a healing ointment. Echo had closed his eyes and was trying to focus only on your soft voice, your calm breathing, and the feel of your gloved hands as you treated him.

"Can I listen to your heart? You know it doesn't hurt or bother you. A quick checkup would do you good, what do you think?" You positioned yourself in front of him again so he wouldn't feel cornered by the suggestion.

"Ugh, Rex or Kix already talked to you, didn't they?" he said, opening his eyes, looking annoyed.

"True, I won't lie to you, but you still need a checkup, Echo. You need to be healthy to go on missions. Let me help you now that you're more relaxed, please. I promise to stop as soon as you need me to."

He nodded as he closed his eyes again. Huffing, defeated once more by your suggestion. Deep down, he knew perfectly well that you were all right. In his new squad, there was a brother who checked his prosthetics and fine-tuned them whenever needed. He also gave him the necessary checkups when he deemed it necessary. He had a relaxed and calm energy, which made Echo more likely to accept help.

"I need you to lift your shirt, Echo," you hesitated slightly as you made the suggestion. You were also unsure about seeing him without it because of his modifications. From what Rex had told you, the implants in his head extended down his back and chest. The war had certainly left many marks on those men over the time you'd been helping them, but without a doubt, Echo was the most severe case of modification you'd witnessed. Even so, you were drawn to the idea that he was no longer just another clone. He was different in appearance, yes, but his personality was the best thing about him. You longed to show him that his insecurities meant nothing to you. You yearned to know every mark on his body, every scar on his skin. To share every moment you could with him, without any restrictions, without fear. Only boundless affection.

"But…" You noticed his insecurity about showing you his current body. He looked away, closing his eyes tightly. Practically ashamed that you were seeing him.

"Don't worry," you said, placing a hand on his cheek. Feeling the close contact, he opened his eyes and found you gazing at him tenderly. "Whatever's underneath won't change what I think of you."

Echo rested his head on that soft, loving hand that cradled his cheek. He closed his eyes again, feeling his throat tighten and his eyes well up with tears at your tenderness and the terror he felt. He swallowed hard and nodded. You stepped back to allow him to take off his shirt. As a doctor, you had seen many bodies mutilated by the horrific effects of war, but Echo's modifications were the work of twisted minds. You kept your face impassive as you inspected the implants and scars. Echo didn't even open her eyes; she was terrified of seeing disgust or revulsion in yours.

The pallor of his face extended to the rest of his body. He was quite thin but healthy, with well-defined muscles, the result of years of rigorous physical training. He had several of those implants distributed throughout his torso and along his spine at regular intervals. Scars were scattered across his body and arms, undoubtedly the aftereffects of the explosion at the Citadel. Your eyes welled up at the thought of all the suffering such a kind and gentle man had endured. You just wanted to kiss every tiny mark on that wounded body. What he considered repulsive, you saw as courage and a will to live, to keep fighting. You composed yourself and began the medical examination.

"I'm going to listen to your heart, okay?"

"Okay," Echo said in a whisper. He took a deep breath, trying to relax. You placed the stethoscope on his chest and back. His heartbeat was rapid but strong, with no signs of malfunction. As you checked his heart rate, you studied him closely, taking advantage of the fact that his eyes were still closed. The pallor of his face extended to the rest of his body. He was quite thin but healthy, with well-defined muscles, the result of years of rigorous physical training. He had more of those implants distributed throughout his torso and along his spine at regular intervals. Scars were scattered across his body and arms, undoubtedly the aftereffects of the explosion at the Citadel. Your eyes welled up at the thought of all the suffering such a kind and gentle man had endured. You just wanted to kiss every small mark on that wounded body. What he considered repulsive, you saw as courage and a will to live, to keep fighting. The change in him was incredible, but the essence of his being, the kindness and strong personality that had once attracted you so much, were still there, and had even improved. His sharp jawline and the enormous honey-colored eyes that had once kept you awake at night were still there.

You must have stared at him longer than you thought, because Echo opened his eyes, surprised that you'd had the stethoscope against his chest for so long. Your eyes met, and now it was your turn to blush. You murmured an apology and, with a shy smile, moved back behind him to listen to his lungs. You ran a hand through your hair to release the tension and heat of the moment.

"Everything's fine here. Can I check your ears, eyes, and mouth?"

"You should have told me about your ears earlier; I'd need to remove the implant..."

"Oh, right, sorry. Well, your eyes and mouth then? I'm assuming you can hear well, hehe." You spoke an octave lower to test it another way, and he smiled broadly, so the test was complete.

You stood in front of Echo again with a small flashlight and examined his pupillary reactivity and a couple more vision tests. Looking so close into those incredible, enormous eyes made your heart stop. Thankfully, the glare from the flashlight prevented Echo from seeing the look of distress on your face. You took a swab from a sterile sheath to check his mouth. You were trying to be as professional as possible given the close proximity. The soldier opened his mouth and stuck out his tongue, as he had done so many times before during the examinations. As you inspected his throat and mouth, he looked into your eyes and at your lips. When you pulled away from the examination, there was a tense moment of close proximity between you. Both of you red-faced and with your hearts pounding in your chests, you hurriedly separated.

"Would you allow me to finally give you a scan? From what Kix told me, it's what you're most apprehensive about. If you'd like, we can do a breathing exercise beforehand, or I can hold your hand while the scanner is running..."

"Can we do both?" Echo smiled sheepishly at this weakness.

"Of course," you smiled broadly. Your arms longed to feel that warmth you had shared so long ago. You placed the instruments on the nearby side table, licking your lips, which desperately craved the touch of his.

You both sat on the examination table, facing each other. Closing your eyes, you controlled your breathing for several minutes. Echo felt himself relaxing. He had seen his sister Omega do it, but she usually performed these exercises alone. He knew it was a Jedi practice, though he had never accompanied her. It felt good, actually. He added to his to-do list accompanying his little sister one of these times, as he had suggested before.

After relaxing deeply, he opened his eyes and watched you continue the exercise, your eyes still closed. Echo had always liked you and remembered with great affection (and something more) the days you shared kisses and caresses. The Citadel had shattered that dream, and he was no longer the same. He had thought about you often, about what it would be like to see you again, but his insecurities had kept him from contacting you. Until now. There you were, as beautiful as ever, or even more so, but he… Finally, you opened your eyes and smiled at him, blushing as you felt those enormous honey-colored eyes watching you. His gaze of desire sent shivers down your spine, and a burning heat settled between your legs.

"Do you feel better?" The truth is, I never remember to do these exercises, and when I do, I realize how good they feel. The heat was rising between your thighs, and you needed to get out of that situation, or you'd end up throwing yourself at him.

"My sister Omega does them often, and she's invited me to join her a few times. I'll do it next time. It's made me feel brand new."

"So, lie down then, and we'll do the scan? I don't want to pressure you; we have all the time in the world." Finally, your professional side took over so you could finish that tedious exam once and for all. Your mind kept wandering back to those kisses you'd shared, and it didn't help that he was looking at you like that.

"Don't you have anything else to do?" Echo asked, scratching the back of his neck.

"Actually, no, so I'm at your disposal for whatever you need..." You were a little taken aback by such a direct comment, but it came out without thinking. Getting off the table you were sharing, you brought the scanning equipment closer. "When you're ready."

Echo nodded and lay down as calmly as he could. You placed the scanner on top of him and offered him your hand. Your thumb absentmindedly stroked his knuckles, trying to soothe him. Your gaze moved from your intertwined hands to his closed eyes and his thin lips. He opened his eyes, and your eyes met. You noticed his growing anxiety as the device scanned different areas of his body. After a gentle squeeze and a loving smile, Echo seemed to control those negative feelings. There, with your hand in his and the warmth of your presence, he felt truly safe. Nothing bad could happen to him.

"Are you okay?" you asked as he sat up again. You were still holding hands, and without thinking, you moved closer to him, placing your other hand on his delicate cheek. "You did very well, Echo."

"Looks like you're going to have a regular patient to put up with when it's my turn for my scan," Echo chuckled, visibly nervous about the contact between you.

"I'd be delighted. Don't even think about not letting me know when you get back, because I know you've been here before and didn't say a word..."

"Well, I..." You moved closer to Echo. You understood his insecurities, but you were only listening to your heart, which hadn't stopped beating for him since you learned he was still alive, despite everything that had happened to him. "I'm not the same person I was when he left a while ago. I've changed a lot. Inside and out."

"But this is still the same, and this is too"—you moved your hand from his head to his heart, resting gently on his chest—"that's what I've always loved about you. Besides, you won't see yourself the way I see you, because to me, you're still incredibly sexy."

Echo's blush reached his cranial implant, and he looked away, his gaze fixed on the ground. You crouched down, searching for his eyes, still holding his hand and his chest. Finally, the ARC trooper looked up and met your tender eyes. You closed the distance between you and gave him a soft, tentative kiss on his thin lips. Your eyes remained open, alert for any negative reaction. Echo sighed, releasing all the tension, and rested his scromp uncertainly on your hip. You pulled away with a longing smile.

"My lips missed you, Echo," you breathed raggedly, almost brushing his mouth.

He pulled you closer to kiss you again, this time with passion. It had been far too long since your lips had met, and a ravenous hunger possessed you both. The tender initial kisses transformed into a battle worthy of the Clone Wars. Your bodies burned with desire and pent-up lust. Your hands explored each other's bodies without restraint. Sighs turned into moans and gasps as your mouth traced Echo's neck and you nestled between her open legs.

CLICK!! The sound of a tool falling at the back of the workshop reminded you that you weren't alone in the hangar. A fit of laughter seized you both, for you wouldn't have been able to restrain your passion once it had ignited. You exchanged knowing glances, your faces flushed with the heat of the moment and the compromising situation.

"Come to my place, I don't want to leave it like this, I can't leave it like this. Not after wanting you for so long, Echo," you said, trying to compose yourself, straightening your clothes and hair so you could leave the infirmary as soon as possible.

"If you ask me like that, of course. I don't want to stay like this either, although I warn you, it's been a long time…" His gaze had shifted from tender to a burning flame that coursed through you with desire. Your body ignited as you felt his eyes tracing your curves.

"We can take all the time in the world there," you instinctively bit your lower lip, and his eyes settled on your moist, swollen lips.

"Give me a few minutes, I need to relax a little, I can't go out like this…" he said, his voice tense from the visible bulge in his pants.

"Sure, I'll gather my things and we'll go," you couldn't help but glance down, where its length pressed against his underwear. A soft moan escaped your lips, knowing that today, finally, you could share what you hadn't had time for before. Your body burned with longing to get home. The short drive there would surely feel endless.

After a few minutes to calm down, you both left the medical area and grabbed a speeder.

"I'll take it. I'll return it tomorrow," he said, informing a brother who was nearby, who nodded with a sly smile as he saw you leaving together.

Indeed, the walk felt long to you, and undoubtedly to him as well. You clung to Echo, tracing the contours of his chest muscles through his t-shirt. He still wasn't entirely confident with all his modifications, but if you didn't seem to mind, he had to get rid of that unease, otherwise he was going to ruin everything.

You climbed the few steps to your apartment, kissing and caressing each other. It took you forever to open the door; with the clone's overheated body pressed against your back, you couldn't manage the keypad. Once the door closed, you pinned him against it, removing his t-shirt and covering him with passionate, tender kisses. Echo closed his eyes, savoring the physical contact after so long. He was so terrified, yet at the same time, he longed so much to be with you… conflicting thoughts bombarded his mind. What if, once you saw what was under his clothes, you were disgusted? What if his insecurities prevented him from pleasing you? What if…?

"So handsome, so sexy…" you returned to his lips, gently catching a tear that escaped down Echo's cheek. "Believe me, you always have been to me. My feelings for you haven't changed."

"You're perfect, and loving me despite everything makes you incomparable," he said, cupping your face and kissing you passionately.

"Come with me," you said, pulling his hand and leading him to the bedroom. You lit some scented candles, filling the room with a soft lavender aroma.

You settled him on the bed and stood between his legs, gently kissing his face and neck. You moved aside to remove your blouse, revealing a black lace bra that left Echo breathless. A pleased smile framed your lips as you saw his lips remain pressed against your breast.

"Ummm… may I?" – he said uncertainly, his eyes moving from your expectant gaze to your suggestive cleavage.

"Of course, otherwise we wouldn't be here, right?" You took his left hand and placed it on one of your breasts. Echo stifled a moan at the soft touch of the fabric and skin. You flinched slightly at the coolness of his hand, a soft, playful giggle escaping you.

"It's cold, sorry," he made to pull it away, but you held it as your nipple hardened with excitement and the temperature contrast. "Incredible. Soft and warm." A murmur of approval rose in his throat until a satisfied smile framed his lips.

With his other arm, he pulled you closer so he could kiss the bare skin that the garment didn't cover. With one hand, you held the back of his neck, and with the other, you unzipped your top, freeing your breasts for him to enjoy. Echo's eyes widened, his breath catching in his throat at your offering. He slowly traced your breasts, licking and kissing every inch of exposed skin. His hand gently caressed your nipples, his fingers circling one and then the other, drawing from you the most beautiful sounds he had ever dreamed of hearing. Between moans of pleasure, you slipped off your skirt, which fell to your feet, and climbed onto the thighs of the soldier you had dreamed of so many times. You melted into a deep embrace, gazing into each other's eyes, kissing tenderly. The skin-to-skin contact was so pleasurable that Echo trembled beneath your touch.

"I've lost count of the dreams I've had about being like this with you," you said, cupping his face in both hands and, kissing him, began to rock against his groin, eliciting sighs of pleasure from both of you.

"Cyar'ika, you're burning hot," Echo boasted, gripping your buttocks.

You gently laid him down and climbed off him, slowly unbuttoning his pants to remove them. You also removed the only garment he was still wearing. A gasp of longing escaped the soldier's lips as he watched you crouch between his metal legs.

Echo sat up tentatively, though your reassuring gaze made him stay propped up on his elbows.

"Just let me, Echo. You need someone to take care of you, after all. Let me show you what I've wanted so badly."

"Ugh, I can't... ugh, say no."

He couldn't finish the sentence as you bent down to attend to his erect member. Your lips captured its circumference, and your tongue traced every inch of its sweet length. Minutes passed, and the attention you gave him was an exquisite pleasure he had never experienced before. His hand went to your hair, caressing it and tangling his fingers in a thick strand. At no point did you feel he was doing it out of dominance, but rather to accompany you in your movements. Echo panted and uttered a string of disjointed murmurs. The sight of you between his legs was a delight, and Echo soon approached his climax.

"I don't want to finish yet. I want to make love to you the way you deserve," he lifted your chin, indicating that you should stand.

He turned you around and laid you down beside him, sliding on top of you and kissing you passionately as his fingers made their way to your clitoris. You were more than ready to receive him, but his hand traced your wet lips, eliciting sighs of pleasure as you writhed, wrapped around him. He savored every second, caressing you and watching you enjoy his touch. Two fingers moved to your entrance, tracing circles as he opened you for him. A muffled moan escaped your lips as he languidly slid his fingers inside you, up to the knuckles. His slow movements were tormenting you, leaving you wanting more. Faster, more of him. The speed increased, but it wasn't enough to quell your burning need to possess him.

"Echo... ugh, heavens! I need you. We've waited too long. I'm protected, so don't worry."

He couldn't wait much longer either and positioned himself to slowly enter you. With every inch, a deep gasp escaped you, and a husky sound, like a purr, joined your sweet sounds of pleasure. You both held your breath until Echo collapsed on top of you, overjoyed to finally be together. After passionate kisses that released the frustration of the long wait, he rose to his knees. With his left hand, he lifted you by your buttocks, and with his right, he supported your back so you could climb onto his hips without breaking your union. He moved across the bed to reach the center.

There, he laid you down again while still positioned above you, gently tracing your body with his hand from your lips to your clitoris. Before touching it, he withdrew almost completely and plunged back into your warmth. Your walls embraced him, squeezing him tight as you felt every throb of his penis in response. His fingers began tracing circles over your swollen center as he thrust himself in and out of that wondrous place he had so longed for.

With each thrust, you writhed with pleasure beneath him, gasping his name over and over. Echo reveled in the sight of him enveloping himself in the paradise that was your body. A sin he was prepared to commit countless times over. Your eyes met his, which lifted from your union with a languid smile, as if he still couldn't quite believe this was happening.

"I'm so incredibly happy, Echo," your legs wrapped around his firm buttocks, urging him to pick up the pace.

"Cyare'se, you're amazing," he whispered, cupping your cheek.</p>"Cyare, that was incredible. It's been so long since…" Echo gently leaned back against you, still sighing from the experience. Still inside you. Her head settled in the crook of your neck as she gently nibbled at the tendon of your shoulder.

He lay back on top of you to kiss you again. His warm tongue trailed down your sensitive neck to one of your nipples, where he delighted in sucking it as his hips bounced insistently against yours. With a mischievous smile, he grabbed one of the pillows and, lifting you slightly, placed it beneath your hips.

The new angle made you howl with pleasure as he reached that fantastic spot inside you. Your legs tightened even more around his hips, and your walls contracted as you felt the heat build in his lower belly. The room was filled with sighs, moans, and gasps in time with the lascivious sounds of your bodies coming together again and again.

"Don't you dare stop, Echo. I'm going to…" Each word came out in short bursts, punctuated by the sounds of your pleasure reaching its peak.

Echo's face and his sounds told you that he, too, was reaching his climax. He sat up again and draped your legs over his right shoulder, securing them firmly with his scomp. His other hand returned to your clit to give you the final thrust, making you cry out his name. Your hands tangled in your hair as you felt his heat flood inside you. Each spurt of his release lifted you higher on your journey to the stars until you both collapsed from pleasure.

He lowered your legs from him and lingered for a few moments, kissing and caressing you as you both caught your breath.

"Cyare, that was incredible. It's been so long since I…" Echo lay down gently on top of you, still sighing from the experience. His head nestled in the crook of your neck as he softly nibbled the tendon of your shoulder.

"You have no idea how many times I've thought about this. Before and after what happened to you. My heart broke when I thought you were gone." But here you are, my sweet soldier—your hands tenderly caressed his sweaty back.—this is what we've both always deserved, to be together.

"You're going to make me cry," he chuckled as he hugged you tightly, kissing your lips.

He slowly pulled away and handed you some tissues from the nightstand. Your body already missed his warmth, his body fitting so perfectly against yours.

"I wouldn't want this to end here. I'd like to keep seeing you, even though you know I'm torn between Rex and Clone Force 99… I'll spend as much time as I can here. With you, as we truly deserve. Even though our fight can't stop now."

"And I don't want you to stop being yourself for anything in the world. That's who you are, an idealist, a warrior, a fighter. And that's what I love about you. I'll keep helping you in any way I can. We'll make this work one way or another." You stroked his back with all your love, tracing his scars, which sent a sweet shiver down his spine.

"My insecurities are going to be hard to overcome… my darkness is sometimes too much to bear," he confessed under your caresses.

"You're so beautiful, Echo. Unique. You drive me crazy, and that's not going to change. I'll help you with anything you need, okay? I've always said that “sometimes darkness can show you the light."

"I never thought I'd have an opportunity like this. Especially not with you. Fives always told me we were made for each other, that sooner or later we'd end up together… damn smart aleck." A bitter smile settled on her lips as she remembered her lost friend.

"Well, wherever he is, I'm sure he's happy for us. He was a great support to me, a great friend. Without him, I wouldn't still be here, I can assure you. My darkness has been very deep too, Echo. Together we'll find the light."