#bad batch hunter reader insert

   You lowered your head, pulling the hood of your cloak farther down over your face in hopes to keep you from being recognizable by any untrustworthy characters.  By the looks of it, that meant everyone in this parlor.

   It was a risky move going there in the first place.  Incredibly dangerous.  Some might deem it unwise, but it was all you had.

   Ever since that day…that horrible day… you’d been keeping an extremely low profile.  You traveled from place to place, having to choose the shadiest modes of transport to avoid the chain code system.  Being on the Empire’s most wanted list meant that you had to take every precaution.

   You glanced around the crowded parlor, getting a feel for the room.  The majority of customers were gathered around one of the dejarik boards.  Things were getting rowdy as one individual was just about to defeat his opponent.  No one would pay you any mind.

   Good.  You could locate the one known as Cid without drawing attention to yourself.

   She was a known jedi informant, and now a possible way to reach some old friends.

   Thanks to Rex’s description, you were able to find her very quickly.  She was seated at the bar, quietly sipping her drink and watching the game.  You exhaled slowly to gather yourself before walking over and taking the seat next to her.

   You ordered a drink casually, knowing that if you jumped right into a slew of questions that she’d be much less likely to give you an answer.  Finally, when your drink was set down in front of you, you took a sip and turned to the cantina owner.

   “Good evening,” you greeted.

   Her yellow eyes regarded you with skepticism that you were speaking to her, but she remained curt.  “‘Evening.”

   “I am looking for some friends of mine.  I was hoping you could point me in the right direction.”

   She lifted a scaly brow, scowling.

   “Could you tell me where I might find a group?”  You paused, searching for the right words.  There was a good chance that they wouldn’t go by their Republic designation.  “It’s a very particular group.  I’ve been told they do odd jobs for you.”

   Cid leaned back, her expression calculating.  “I might know of a group.  Depends on who’s asking.”

   “I’m an ally.”

   She huffed.  “Sure you are.”

   Cid didn’t say anything more, but the message had gotten across.  You could only hope that you’d reach them.  If you couldn’t, then you’d have to contact Rex again…  You remained at the counter, watching as Cid slipped away.

   The anticipation of seeing them, seeing him again, was almost too much to bear.  Your mind flooded with memories as you waited.  Memories of the first time you’d met the intriguing squad.  Memories of the first time you’d locked eyes with him.

   “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Sergeant.” you greeted, blocking a stream of laser blasts.  “Though I wish it was under better circumstances.”

   His voice emerged smoky and mysterious through the modulator of his helmet as he took out a nearby droid with his viroblade.  “Pleasure’s all mine, General.”

   Later on, after the initial wave of droids, he removed his helmet to speak with you face-to-face.  You were well aware of how the Bad Batch differed from other troops, but it was still surprising to see their appearances.

   “Your squad is most impressive,” you said, trying very hard to push down the immediate feelings of attraction that began to blossom as you admired his tattooed features.  “And you arrived in just the nick of time.”

   He gave a small chuckle, his brow lifting.  “It’s what we do.”

   “Yeah!”  The one known as Wrecker jumped into the conversation, giving a hearty laugh.  “Those droids never stand a chance against us!”

   Tech was typing away on a set of buttons on his armor.  “They are falling back.  By my calculations, they will regroup shortly for a final attack.”

   “We’d better get ready then,” Crosshair smirked, placing a toothpick between his teeth.

   “Any orders?” Hunter asked.  It was apparent that the squad was very accustomed to working independently, but he made a point to recognize your authority as a jedi general.

   “None except that we retake this base,” you replied, making Wrecker practically jump.

   “I like her!”

   You found yourself smiling against the rim of your glass right before taking a sip.  That battle marked the beginning of your time with the Bad Batch.  You had the rank of general, but you’d never assumed command of a legion.  The Council would send you on independent missions as they saw fit, and after the success of that one, you were granted permission to assist the squad on a series of assignments.

   You came to see the Bad Batch as family. Aside from the particularly risky missions, it was the happiest period of your life.

   And that’s where it got messy.

   You recalled so vividly the bonds you’d formed with the brothers.  The hours working on the ship with Tech.  The many different ways to blow up a droid that Wrecker taught you.  The time you’d spent getting to know Crosshair and read him, though you still found him puzzling at times.  The talks you had with Hunter.

   Things got extremely messy when taking into account the feelings you harbored for the sergeant in secret, though such attachments to him, or anyone for that matter, were forbidden.  What was worse…he felt the same for you, and he knew about your attachment to him.  You could feel it every time his mind was near.  With both of you being so sensitive to your surroundings, it was bound to happen.  It was an unspoken thing between you.  Though you ached for more, you decided that being near him was enough.

   Then, there was the night that everything seemed to implode.

   Another successful mission.

   You gazed out at the beautiful star streaks across the dash as the Marauder traveled at lightspeed.  All was quiet aboard the ship.  Save for Tech’s busy mind, everyone seemed to be settling down for some much-needed rest.

   Oh.  There was one more mind that hadn’t been lulled by the sound of the engine.  Footsteps made their way up toward the front of the ship where you stood.

   “Hey. Sarge.”  The very informal greeting was a result of much time spent with the Batch.  The lot of you had forsaken by-the-book speech.  

   His eyes did not flash in amusement like they normally would.  His brows furrowed seriously as he leaned against the wall, and your voice took on a more concerned tone.  “Everything alright?”

   “Yeah,” he replied, though he didn’t look any less troubled.  “Just…a few things on my mind.”

   “Anything you’d like to share?  Maybe talking about it will help,” you offered helpfully.  “I’m no Yoda, but I’d like to think that learning under him has earned me some wisdom.”  You chuckled, giving him a playful nudge.

   “It’s-” he hesitated, gaze meeting yours meaningfully.  “I don’t think you want me to talk about this.”

   You tilted your head in confusion.  “Why not?”

   “Because it’s about…us.  This.  Whatever this is.”

   You caught on to where his mind was, feeling your heart flutter and stomach drop at the same time.  Your lips parted with a tiny “oh” sound escaping from them.  He was right.  This was definitely something you didn’t want to talk about. You couldn’t offer him a commitment.  Your code wouldn’t allow that.  But you didn’t want to lose him. This conversation could very well change everything.

   “Hunter… Before you continue, I just want to say that I…I…”

   “I know,” he said, stepping forward.  It was a small step, but it put him in your space entirely.  Suddenly his handsome face was all you could see, and that musky scent of his was the only thing you could smell.  His gloved hand reached out gently to brush your fingers.

   He knew what you felt for him… because that’s what he felt for you.

   “And I’m not asking for anything.  Or hoping.  I just…have to tell you at least once that I do too.”

   His lips ghosted over yours.  The warmth of his breath fanned your face, drawing you in while that feeling of comfort and security that you felt with him washed over you.  Your fingers entwined with his gloved ones, and you allowed yourself a single moment.  Hunter pressed his lips to your own briefly, testing the waters.  You leaned in before he could pull away, capturing him in another kiss, which he deepened.

   It was only a single moment, absolutely forbidden and beautiful.

   The kiss ended all too soon, with Hunter whispering a low “good night” before heading for his rack to get a few hours of sleep.  You remained in the cockpit, caught up in the thrill of what happened, yet completely torn.

   You felt tears well up in your eyes as you recalled what happened next.  It was right after returning from that mission that the Council had decided to reassign you to assist another jedi in an entirely different system.

   That was the end of your time with the Batch during the Clone Wars.  You couldn’t protest the Council’s decision without betraying some sort of attachment.  Even if the Council didn’t pick up on anything romantic, they still wouldn’t be so keen on your preference of the squad over where duty called you.  The Council’s decision had come so quickly that part of you feared that somehow they knew.

   So you carried out orders without so much as a hesitation.  You didn’t reach out to Hunter, fearful that he would also be at risk somehow.  Time passed.  The war came to an end.

   You’d barely escaped the former chancellor’s horrid order.  And after so many months on your own, wondering where your squad was in all this mess, assuming the worst, you ran into Rex, and he informed you of his discovery of them, the removal of their chips, and their whereabouts.

   It was only a matter of a few rotations before you found yourself at Cid’s Parlor.

   There was no telling how your arrival would be received.  Would they be angry?  Hurt?  Would they be glad to see you?  You imagined that the others would be glad, at least.

   The moment had arrived.  The first one you saw was Wrecker, towering over everyone else in the cantina as he made his way out from the back.  He spotted you right away, and a huge grin spread across his face.

   “Hey!  It’s ________!”

   He emerged from the crowd with Hunter just in front of him, followed by Tech.  Another trooper walked out after him that you didn’t recognize and also a young girl.

   “Ah, _________” Tech said in recognition.  “I am pleased to see you alive and well, considering the events concluding the war.”

   “You have no idea how glad I am to see all of you,” you replied warmly.  “It’s like coming home.”  You mustered the courage to meet Hunter’s eyes, hoping you’d find a similar welcome.  His gaze was piercing, like a single lamp in the dark- comforting, safe, filling you with relief.

   It was true.  That seedy parlor, where you’d never been before, that was full of strangers already felt like home.

   Even so, Hunter suggested the lot of you take the reunion back to the Marauder to avoid drawing any attention to you.  Your mind was buzzing the entire time with questions; both about the new faces you saw amongst your squad as well as the one face that you didn’t see.  Where was Crosshair?

   Tech updated you on the sharpshooter’s absence in a brief, but thorough explanation.  You were saddened to hear of these events, but the group seemed somewhat hopeful that their brother didn’t appear entirely lost.

   The other trooper, who you presumed to be a newer member of the squad, looked rather curious.

   “Echo, this is ________, a friend.  She served with us on several missions during the war,” Hunter introduced.

   “Served?” Echo repeated.  “Then that would make you a…”

   “A jedi,” you uttered quietly.  “Yes.”

   He stood up straight and saluted with his scomp arm.  “It’s an honor.  My name is Echo.  I joined the squad after a rescue mission on Skako.”

   “And this is Omega,” Hunter gestured toward the girl.  “Our newest member.”

   “Hello!” she gave a cheerful wave.  “I’ve heard a lot about you.”

   “Oh really?”

   “Yep!” Wrecker butted in, wrapping you up in a big hug.  “You’re our favorite jedi, after all!”  He set you down and gave you a playful nudge with his elbow, which almost sent you stumbling.  “We missed you!  Especially Hunter here.”

   The comment piqued your interest.  Hunter gave Wrecker one of his signature looks, silently telling him to drop it.  Tech observed the interaction, noting it while adjusting his goggles.  Echo’s gaze darted back and forth between you and Hunter, understanding flashing in them.  Omega looked confused, but didn’t voice it.

   You nearly collapsed into ruins from embarrassment.

   Wrecker suddenly scratched his head. “ Uhhh, that reminds me.  Tech, d’you remember the other day? I said I wanted to show you the thing.”

   “I do not recall-”

   “The thing.  It’s, uh, in Cid’s.  But we have to go see it.  Now.”

   Echo seemed to catch on to some inside cue because he quickly got Tech’s attention and nodded his head in the direction of the exit ramp.

   “Ah.  Indeed.”

   “You too, Omega!” Wrecker added, ushering the girl outside.  You clasped a hand over your mouth to hide your humor while the group departed.  You could hear Omega’s little voice asking, “what’s going on?” before they were out of earshot.

   Hunter gave a long and heavy sigh, shaking his head, before his eyes met yours again.

   “I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised,” he said.  “They’re all trouble.”

   “Yeah,” you chuckled.

   An awkward silence fell over the both of you.  It wasn’t like you expected things to fall back into place, to pick up right where you’d left off.  But with how the others acted, you expected Hunter to say something.

   After all that time…There he was.  Safe and sound.  Standing just a few feet in front of you.

   “Hunter, I-”

   “Look-”

   Both of you fell silent again, and Hunter took the initiative to speak first.  His voice was low, a bit shaky.  “I’m glad you’re alright.  You don’t know how worried I was- we all were.”

   “I was worried about all of you,” you replied.  “I saw what the chips did to troopers.  It’s terrible.  I was so relieved to find Rex, and when he told me that he’d been in contact with you… I can’t even say how I felt.  I’ve missed you so much!”  Your voice broke, and Hunter stepped forward, wrapping his arms around you.

   The low rumble of his voice was soothing against your ear as he held you tighter.  “I missed you too.”

   “I’m sorry.  I’m sorry I didn’t reach out to you after I was reassigned.  After what happened that night after our last mission…”

   “It’s alright.  Neither did I.  I guess…neither of us were in a place to do anything about it then.  We had our obligations.”

   Had obligations.  Past tense.

   “But just know that I’ve thought about you every day since then,” he said.  “Nothing’s changed.”

    “Oh, Hunter,” you cried.  “Me too.”

   His breath hitched in his throat, and he pulled away slightly.  “You know, if this weren’t to happen, there’s a place for you here.  With the squad.  That’s undeniable.”

   You met his eyes, too happy to care about the tears on your face.  His gaze seemed to soften at the sight of them, and he reached up to brush them away.  

   “I didn’t think it was,” you chuckled tearfully.  “I do want to be with the squad, and I want to be with you.”

   A soft smile graced his features, the kind of smile you’d only seen a few times.  One of them was when he first and last kissed you.  Hunter leaned in, brushing his nose against yours, before closing the short distance entirely.

   His arms enveloped you, pulling you tighter against his frame while he kissed you with simmering passion.  You grasped his broad shoulders to ground yourself, and yet it only sent you higher.

   Your eyes followed the contours of his face while you paused the dance of your lips to catch your breath, tracing the slope of his nose, the curve of his mouth, and the edge of his jawline.  Amidst the haze of his close proximity, you’d never seen him so clearly. 

   You were glowing, luminous.  So utterly content, and yet, your lips tingled with the desire to be kissed again.

   Heavy footsteps on the ramp jolted you from the moment.  Before you and Hunter could separate to save face, Wrecker poked his head inside the Marauder, grinning.

   “I knew it!  All it took was fifteen minutes.”

 That night, the wind picked up again.  Hunter got settled in his recliner as the snow piled up even more outside.  It had been a very productive day.  More firewood was chopped.  Laundry was hanging to dry near the woodstove.  He found time to carve another bowl to add to his set before heating up another pot of leftover soup.

   The cabin, as always, was quiet except for the crackle of firewood.  Hunter slurped spoonful after spoonful, his mind wandering to plans he had for the next day.  It was time he paid the boys a visit.  Perhaps he could bring some venison their way since he always had a decent supply.  Not that they needed it.  All of them did just fine getting food on their own, but it was always a nice gesture to bring a gift when visiting.

   A thud caught Hunter’s attention.  He looked up from his bowl, spoon hovering over the steaming broth, and waited.  It wasn’t uncommon for snow to drop off of tree branches due to the weight, but that sound was different.  It didn’t come from the roof.  It came from the front door.  If the first thud wasn’t enough to pique his curiosity enough to rise from his chair, the second one sure was.

   Something cried out on the other side of the door, but it wasn’t the wind.  Soon enough, the banging continued.  Hunter quickly retrieved his gun from its mount on the wall.  He cocked it and grasped it firmly as he took careful steps toward the window on the right side of the door.  There was no doubt that someone was trying to break in.  They were throwing something repeatedly against the door most likely in hopes of breaking it down.

   Hunter dimmed the lantern so he could pull back the curtain and take a look.  There were two figures at the door, and they certainly weren’t dressed for the weather.  To his disbelief, one looked like a child.  Neither were armed.  Hunter raised the light of the oil lamp and tucked the gun away under the coat rack where it wouldn’t be seen in case these people were indeed trouble.  He quickly undid the locks on the front door, and as it swung open, the first figure practically fell into the cabin.  They must’ve been mid-charge trying to break the door down.

   Before he could utter a word, she looked up at him with wide eyes and jumped to her feet, hurrying straight back out the open door.

   “Woah, woah, woah,” he said, grabbing her arm.  He nearly flinched at how cold she was.  The sleeve of her shirt was coated with ice and snow.

   “Please, please,” she begged.  “We thought the cabin was empty!  I-I didn’t think anyone would be here this time of year!  Please let me go!”  She looked utterly panicked, gasping and thrashing about in a futile attempt to break free from his grasp.

   “L-l-let her go!” another voice exclaimed, and the child darted in to take hold of the hem of the woman's shirt to pull her back.  She was also covered in ice and snow, and her teeth chattered.

   “Listen to me,” Hunter said, giving her a final tug to still her.  He met her gaze sincerely.  “I’m not gonna’ hurt you.  But I’m telling you, if you go back out there dressed like that in this weather, it will not end well.  Certainly not for the kid.”  

   She stopped struggling, seemingly mesmerized by his intense gaze.  Hunter slowly released her wrists from his hands, backing away.  “It’s warm in here, and I have plenty of food.  Just...don’t go back out there.  Please.”

   She looked at the frozen child beside her, lips turning down in a contemplative frown as she internally debated her options.  Hunter remained silent as he let her make the decision.  Finally, her determined eyes met his once more, and she nodded.

   “Alright, I’m going to shut the door,” he told them.  “We’ve let a lot of cold in as it is.”

   Both of them entered the cabin, but they lingered near the door long after Hunter had shut it and headed toward the kitchen to fetch another bag of thawing soup to heat up over the wood stove.  Once he got that cooking, his eyes did a scan of the woman’s frozen apparel.  The clothes hanging near the stove were still damp, so he headed back to his room.

   “W-w-where are y-you going?” she demanded.  Her teeth chattered uncontrollably ever since she set foot in the toasty cabin.  It was evident that she still did not fully trust him, which was to be expected considering he was a total stranger.

   “Both of you need to get warm,” he called back.  “Your clothes need to thaw out and dry.”  He returned holding an oversized shirt and a pair of pants.  “Unfortunately, today happens to be laundry day, so I only have one set that’s dry at the moment.”

   “Give it to her,” she said without hesitation, nodding in the child’s direction.  Nonetheless, she stepped forward to accept the clothes and hand them to the girl instead.  Hunter understood why she was being so protective, and as a matter of fact, he admired it.

   “You can change in the other room,” he said, motioning toward the room he emerged from.  Meanwhile, he walked over to the side table where a few folded blankets and quilts were stacked.  “Here, you can use these.”

   “I’m f-fine,” she said curtly.

   “Like I said, your clothes need to dry.  In the meantime, you can wrap yourself in a few of these.”

   She glared daggers in his direction.  “Exc-c-cuse me, b-but I don’t wish-sh-sh to be sat in a stranger...stranger’s cabin without m-my clothes.”  Speaking was clearly difficult for her, and though Hunter understood her distrust, it was hard for him to see her suffering needlessly. 

   “If it makes you feel any better, I’ll stay on the other side of the room.”  When she didn’t respond, he sighed.  “Fine,” Hunter held his hands up, dropping the quilts onto the recliner.  “You do what you want.”

   The girl came out of the other room in her change of dry clothes.  Though oversized, they’d do the trick.  Hunter instructed her to lay out her old clothes near the stove so they’d dry faster.

   As promised, he remained near the counter where his radio was to give his guests the space they needed to make them more comfortable.  The child sat down on the couch, but the woman stayed standing while she hugged herself and shivered.  After several minutes of awkward silence, the woman finally rose to her feet and snatched up the quilts before marching to the back room.  Not long after, she emerged wrapped in a blanket and quilt with one hand sticking out to set her old clothes down next to the child’s.

   Hunter made no sly comment.  Gave her no pointed look.  He was just relieved that the two were safe and would be warming up.

   “Soup should be done,” he said.  He took a step forward, looking at his guests cautiously.  Neither looked alarmed by his approach, so he carried a few bowls and spoons over.  He ladled some soup into each one and handed it off before refilling his own bowl.  “There’s more if either of you want seconds.”

   There were a few sniffles and slurps of broth before the woman spoke up.  “T-thank you.”  There was still a quiver to her voice, but she already sounded much better.

   “________, can you help me?” Omega asked.  A slight crease formed at the bridge of her nose, evidence of worry that you would be annoyed with her request.  You only smiled in response and reached up toward the shelf she was pointing at and retrieved the item.

   Little did you know that a certain sergeant was watching the exchange.  But his stare did not escape Tech’s attention.  Normally he would turn a blind eye to Hunter’s obvious attraction to you, but this time was different.  Hunter had quite literally stopped to observe, and Tech was forced to maneuver around him for the third time that evening while doing mundane tasks to keep the ship functioning properly.  There was a whole list of things to be done, and he couldn’t afford to waste time.

   “You’ve got to be kidding me,” Tech said aloud, catching Hunter’s attention as he walked past.  The sergeant’s eyes were torn from you and Omega to glance at the pilot who released a loud sigh.

   “What’s got you so worked up?” he asked.

   Tech lifted a brow, incredulous at how unaware his teammate was of his own actions.  Hunter noted the look, but still didn’t quite catch on.  Tech had a tendency to operate on another level.  Perhaps it was one of those “I thought it was obvious” moments.

   “Your fascination with ________ isn’t exactly the most subtle,” Tech said.

   Hunter’s face was the definition of alarm as his eyes flickered over to where you and Omega were down the hall, ensuring that neither of you picked up on the conversation.  His shoulders relaxed at the sight of you showing Omega a thing or two in the panel wiring.  You were being utterly patient as Omega once more let a wire slip before she was able to connect them.  You smiled reassuringly, giving her a pat on the shoulder, before showing her the right way.

   “Ahem.”  Tech cleared his throat, and Hunter realized he had gotten lost in watching the two of you once more.

   Hunter directed his gaze back to his brother.  He would have to address the bold statement Tech made coolly if he wanted to save face.  “I just think she’s good with Omega, that’s all.”

   “Oh, I’m sure you do.”

   Tech was never afraid to voice his thoughts exactly to the sergeant.  On missions, it was more beneficial to the team to hear the odds, no matter how poor, so they could change their course of action for the better.  But at the moment, Hunter wished Tech would just let it be for once.  

   “What’s that supposed to mean?”  He figured that if he played dumb a little longer, Tech would drop it.

   “Hunter,” Tech stated, giving him another disappointed look.  As if he wouldn’t catch on to what his sergeant was doing.  “Why don’t you and ________ have a conversation about the matter?”

   Hunter’s brows furrowed.  There was no more denying it to his brother.  Sure, maybe he thought highly of you.  Maybe he thought too highly of you.  Either way, it didn’t change things.  “Wouldn’t change a thing,” he finally said aloud.  “The fact is we’re not meant for that.”

   It was no mystery what Hunter was referring to because it was a topic the squad members had spoken about amongst themselves a few times during the war.  They definitely differed from the Regs in many ways, but it all boiled down to the fact that they were soldiers: they weren’t meant to pursue love and family the way the rest of the galaxy did.

   There was a pause as Tech’s mind worked.  He took a seat in the pilot’s chair and peeked at the fuel levels.  “Seeing that we are no longer affiliated with the Republic and are not bound by regulations, it isn’t completely unthinkable.  Then again, I cannot think of a time we allowed ourselves to be bound by regulations in the first place.”

   “Still,” Hunter responded with a small sigh.  “It’s not exactly the ideal situation.  We’re all in tight quarters and on the run from the Empire.  I’m not sure it’s a good dynamic.”

   “It’s true that the nature of your potential relationship may bring about complications,” Tech conceded.  “However, the nature of your relationship currently may bring about complications as well if not addressed.”

   Hunter stole another glance in your direction.  Omega had gone to dispose of the old parts you replaced in the panel, leaving you to admire the completed work alone.  You must have caught his gaze because you turned to smile at him and give a little nod and thumbs-up, an indication that your teaching moment with Omega had gone well.  He simply nodded in return before turning to see Tech already giving him a pointed look.

   He ignored the look and instead decided to change the subject.  “Where’s our fuel at?”

   “We’ll need to stop soon,” Tech replied.  “Once we’re out of hyperspace, there will be a nearby planet we can land on to fuel up and get supplies.”

   “Sounds good.”

   It was quiet for a minute as Tech flipped some switches.  Without looking up, he said, “Perhaps you and _________ could go together.”

   Breakfast was a relaxed affair.  The three of you ate and made small talk.  Afterwards, Hunter took your plates and deposited them in a larger container for washing later.  You once again offered assistance as a gesture of gratitude for his hospitality, but this time he accepted.  You helped him take down the hanging laundry and fold it while Omega volunteered to do dishes.  Hunter filled a basin with water from a pump outside and set it down on the counter.

   “Here, use this..”

   You noted the dish soap’s packaging.  It wasn’t a typical plastic container.  It was a glass bottle that had a label scribbled on by hand.  Fabric was tied around the bottleneck with twine to seal it.  “Do you make everything around here?” you asked in amazement.

   He smirked.  “Actually, I bought this from some friends of mine in town who sell homemade products.  It’s less garbage I need to worry about disposing of.”

   You folded another shirt carefully and set it down on the pile.  “How often do you go into town?”

   Hunter added another log to the stove and closed it back up.  “Once every few weeks or so because it’s far to walk.”

   “Sounds like a refreshing walk,” you said.

   “It’s not bad in the warmer weather.  In the winter, I don’t go nearly as often.  I try to stock up on things I’ll need before the cold hits.”

   “I can imagine.”  You finished the last of the folding and carried the piles to his bed so he could put them away.  It was difficult not to linger and get another look at the cozy bedroom.  With the soft glow of the lantern and assorted animal furs, he must get good sleep there, you thought.  When you emerged, you saw Omega motioning for you to stand beside her as Hunter pulled up a stool in the kitchen.

   There was static and a faint voice speaking on the radio device that you’d seen sitting on the counter.  He adjusted a dial, and the voice got louder.

   “...I repeat, this is Tech.”

   “I read you, Tech.  This is Hunter checking in.  What’s up?”

   “Yeah, what’s up?” another man’s hearty voice joined in.

   “Hello, Wrecker.  Crosshair, Echo, do you read me as well?”

   There was a sigh.  “Yes.”

   And another responded with, “yes, sir.”

   The one who called himself “Tech” over the radio continued his message.  “I am alerting you all of an incoming storm.  Be prepared to be snowed in for the next few days.”

   Hunter adjusted another dial when the static became unbearable and spoke into the mic.  “When’s this supposed to start?”

   “Within a couple of hours.”

   “Copy that,” he said with a serious nod.  “Thanks for the warning.”

   “Also, on the subject of news, the missing person alert has changed,” Tech said.  “The case of the missing woman and child has been reclassified as a kidnapping.  It says that the child is in considerable danger.”

   Your blood ran cold at his words.  Your hand instinctively went to take Omega’s, and she looked at you with wide eyes and a frown on her face.  Both of you held your breaths.  Hunter stole a glance over his shoulder before responding to the update casually.

   “I’ll keep an eye out.”

   “As we all will,” the coiled voice added.

   “Alright, that is all.  As always, if there is anything you need, do not hesitate to contact me before the weather gets too severe.  Tech, over and out.”

   Silence fell over the cabin.  Hunter dialed down the radio and shifted on the stool to face you and Omega.  Those intense eyes found yours, both sending a chill down your spine and making your chest tighten at the same time.  What would he do?  Did he really believe the alert?  Would he contact the authorities?

   “You wanna’ tell me what’s going on?” he asked.  He didn’t sound harsh or even irritated.  Hunter glanced between the two of you as he patiently waited for an explanation.

   “I promise, I’m here of my own will,” Omega spoke up, squeezing your hand.

   “That, I can tell,” he said with a nod.  “So, why is there an alert?”

   Several seconds passed in tense silence as his question hung in the air.  Omega lowered her head, unable to think of a response.  In the meantime, you were searching your brain for something to say.  

   “Custody,” you blurted finally.  “I mean...It’s a complicated custody situation.  With my ex.  That’s why we can’t go to the police.  That’s why we’re on the run.”

   See, this story made sense.  It better explained why the two of you were in the situation that you were.  Something clicked then in Hunter’s eyes, and you realized that he accepted this answer much quicker than the first.  Guilt rose in your chest at deceiving him, but it would only be a short while…  Soon, you and Omega could continue on your way and leave the poor man out of any further involvement.

   “As a matter of fact, we’ve been here too long as it is,” you continued, and tears nearly pricked your eyes at the utterly heartbroken look on Omega’s face at your words.  “We really should be going.”

   “Didn’t you hear?” Hunter nodded in the direction of the radio.  “There’s a blizzard coming.  You won’t get very far, even if you leave this second.”

   Omega looked hopeful as you considered this.

   “Look, I know I should call the authorities,” Hunter said.  “It just so happens that I don’t get any decent phone service out here.”  He cracked a smile, and you couldn’t help but mirror it as he slid off the stool and headed for the front door.  “It’s your choice, of course, if you want to leave.  Just know that you’re both safe here and welcome to stay.”

   Your eyes fluttered shut, and for a brief moment, sleep welcomed you with open arms.  It was a shame you had to beat it back with a stick.  You forced your eyes open again with a huff, shifting into a sitting position on the floor and maneuvering so that the blankets would stay over your shoulders.

   Omega was fast asleep on the couch with a quilt draped over her form.  The sight was peaceful and helped soothe your agitation.  The poor kid had been through so much, and you were glad that she was finally able to be fed properly and rest in a warm shelter.  You had that stranger to thank.  You didn’t even know his name, but he had shown you more kindness than you’d seen in quite some time.

   Still, part of you was too afraid to let your guard down.  Was the kindness a front for something more sinister?  You couldn’t risk getting too comfortable, not with yourself and Omega at his mercy.  She would be able to sleep, but you needed to stay awake and keep watch.  It did ease your mind that he had retired to his own room for the evening.  You’d be able to hear that wooden door creak open if he decided to emerge at any point.

   You were absolutely exhausted.  Sleep was relentless in beckoning you to return.  You’d gone from freezing cold to the epitome of warmth and comfort within the last few hours, and that was after a most interesting few weeks before that…

   Maybe you could shut your eyes for a few minutes...Just a few minutes…

   “No,” you argued with the tempting thoughts aloud, though your words came out as a tired grunt.  “Can’t do it.  Can’t...sleep...”

- - - - - - - - - - 

   When you woke, it took a few moments to remember who and where you were.  For several seconds, you glanced around in confusion.  That had to be the deepest sleep you’d ever been in.  It was absolutely beautiful.  You dreamt of someplace warm and safe.  Your belly had been full, and… Hm.  It seemed that it wasn’t a dream.

   After you regained your awareness, it occurred to you that Omega was nowhere in sight.  You clutched the blanket tighter over your form as you stumbled to your feet.  “Omega?” you cried, heart racing in fear.  “Omega?”

   “I’m right here!” she called, hurrying out of the back room.

   “What are you doing?”  You didn’t mean to sound angry.  The panic was still in your system.

   “It’s okay,” she replied calmly, understanding as ever.  “I was just changing back into my clothes.”

   “And where’s our host?”

   “Oh, Hunter?  He just went out to the freezer to get stuff to make breakfast.”

   “You talked to him?  You didn’t tell him about…?”

   “No, don’t worry.  We just talked about the weather.  And you.”

   You gave her an incredulous look.  “What?”

   She brought her hands up to stifle a giggle at your expression.  It was hard not to smile back, but you stood your ground as the stern adult caretaker.  Her change in demeanor took you by surprise as her smile faded and her eyes softened.  “I can’t tell you why or how I know this, but...he’s okay.  We can trust him.”

   You eyed her skeptically for a moment as you considered her statement.  “Okay then.  You haven’t steered me wrong so far, kid.  So if you say he’s cool, then he’s cool.  But I’d still like to be cautious.  We should give him the story we’ve given everyone so far.”

   “Alright,” she said with a playful roll of her eyes.

   Just then, the front door opened, and snow was blown inside.  The one Omega referred to as “Hunter” walked in with a basket of ingredients tucked under one arm.  His brown eyes met yours, and you had to admit, you thought they were beautiful the first time you saw them the previous night.  They were intense, a reflection of the strong and skilled man they belonged to, and yet held a certain warmth.

   “Hey, you’re up,” he said.

   “Yep, finally,” Omega joked.

   “Sorry, I didn’t get to sleep right away.”

   Hunter proceeded to set the ingredients down on the counter, stealing a glance at you over his shoulder.  “Really, it’s fine. Uh, your clothes should be dry now if you want to change.”

   You were once again made aware of your situation.  The quilt was wrapped around your bare form as securely as you could manage, though it kept sagging down around your shoulders a little.  With heat rising in your cheeks, you turned and waddled back toward the other room.

   You hadn’t gotten a good look at the place before because it was so dark, and you were so tired, but it had quite the cozy atmosphere.  The room, which you presumed to be Hunter’s bedroom, was large enough for a full-sized bed, a nightstand, and a wooden wardrobe on the opposite wall.  The decor was simple and rustic with only a few shelves holding trinkets.

   You shut the door and took your time getting dressed.  Omega’s cheery voice could be heard chatting away in the kitchen area.  With the realization that your host could be trusted, your clothes back on, and the promise of breakfast, you were able to breathe a deep sigh and finally relax.

   Walking into the main sitting area, you felt like a new person.  Hunter had his back turned to you as he cracked several eggs into a pan.  Omega was leaning against the counter, asking questions about the animals that he sees out in the woods on a daily basis.

   “Um, Hunter?” you tested out his name, and he paused to look your way curiously.  “Is...is there anything I can help you with?  As far as breakfast?”

   His brows rose in surprise at the offer.  “Thanks, but I’ve got it.  You’re welcome to have a seat and make yourself at home.  Should be ready soon enough.”

   You nodded.  “Oh, okay.”

   He resumed cracking eggs, and you sat down on the couch that Omega had crashed on for the night.  “It seems you know my name, but I still don’t know yours.”

   “My name is ________,” you said.  Normally, you’d give a false name.  That’s what you and Omega had been doing for the last few weeks, but it felt silly to do so in that instance when you’d noted that Omega had given him her real name.

   “Nice to meet you, ________. You also, Omega.”

   “Nice to meet you too, Hunter,” Omega chimed in.  “How come you live out here all by yourself?”

   You wanted to scold her for asking such a question when the two of you weren’t being so open about your origins, but Hunter didn’t seem to mind.  He shrugged his shoulders as he brought the pan of eggs and sausage patties to the wood stove.

   “A few buddies of mine and I decided to go off the grid last year,” he said matter-of-factly.  “We all have skills… We’re all carpenters, hunters, fishermen.  Figured we could live off the land if we wanted.”

   “Just like that?” Omega asked in awe.

   “Well, it was a process to move out here.  Had to sell our old homes, build our own places.  It worked out, though.”

   “That’s pretty neat!”

   “Yeah, I guess it is,” he nodded.  You tensed as he looked your way, and you braced for the question you knew was coming.  “So, what’s your story?  How did the two of you end up all the way out here?”

   Stick to the story.  Stick to the story.

   “We’re on the run,” you began, “from my abusive ex-husband.  He wouldn’t leave me and my daughter alone, so we decided to make a life for ourselves elsewhere.  It’s been a very difficult few weeks, and just recently, he showed up where we were staying.  We had to get out fast.”

   Hunter’s expression was unreadable as he listened to your explanation.  Judging by the lack of immediate sympathy in his gaze that others usually showed, he was most likely analyzing your story.  You knew very well that it didn’t entirely make sense.  It didn’t explain why you took your supposed daughter so far up north with nothing but the clothes on your backs.  No one else had questioned it, only offered minimal aid to help you along.  Hopefully, Hunter would do the same.

   “That’s very unfortunate,” he said, tone lilting with sympathy at last.  “I’m sorry for what you both have gone through.”