The city was quieter today—or maybe Ava was just too focused to notice the usual hum of clones. The team had found a small hideout in an abandoned building, and for the first time in days, Ava felt safe… almost normal.
Nick was sitting across from her, leaning against a dusty wall, cleaning a small gadget they had scavenged. His brow was furrowed in concentration, and Ava couldn't help but watch him, her heart doing that weird fluttery thing she tried to ignore.
"Hey," Nick said suddenly, looking up. "You okay?"
Ava blinked, startled. "Yeah… I'm fine," she said softly, though the truth was, she felt a little lighter just because he asked.
Nick smiled, a small, genuine curve of his lips. "You know… it's kinda weird. Even in all this chaos, being here… it's nice. With you."
Ava's chest warmed. "Yeah… I feel the same," she admitted quietly.
For a moment, they just sat there, sharing the silence, the kind of silence that didn't need words. It was comforting, safe, and rare in a world full of danger and clones. Ava realized she didn't have to pretend here—she didn't have to be strong or angry or mysterious. She could just… be.
Nick glanced at her, his eyes soft. "You know… we make a good team. I mean, we've survived way more than anyone should have to. And… I'm glad it's with you."
Ava felt a small smile creep onto her face. "Me too," she whispered.
A soft laugh escaped Nick. "Don't tell Julie and John, but… I think I'm starting to like these quiet moments. Even if they're short."
Ava laughed too, and it was light and genuine, the kind that made her forget, just for a second, that the clone army was still out there.
Then, their hands brushed. It was accidental—or maybe not—and both of them froze for a heartbeat, hearts pounding, cheeks heating up. Neither pulled away, but neither moved closer either. Just a quiet, shared moment that spoke more than words ever could.
Outside, the city waited, full of chaos, danger, and shadows. But inside, Ava realized, there could be light too. And maybe… just maybe… that light was Nick.
They didn't say more, but the warmth lingered. And for Ava, in that moment, it was enough.