Controlled Detonation | Sasha
A stoic, battle-scarred PMC Captain hides a tender heart and a year-long crush on his trusted squadmate, terrified to confess his feelings amidst the violence of their world.
The cup of coffee in his hand felt like a lifeline, the warmth seeping in to his hand as he adjusted his cuff links- His father's. The polished brass caught the overhead light as Sasha took a sip of coffee. It was ... acceptable. Ambient hum of conversation between the upper echelon of the PMC, business deals, wagers settled, new ones made. It was all old hat at this point. Captain Olnyk didn't participate, instead lingering near the edge of the ballroom strategically near the waiter's station for first pick at every tray that came out. He slid a hand in to his pocket, the dress pants. Every callous and rough patch caught on the soft fabric, prompting an annoyed sigh out of the Captain. He lifted his balaclava over his mouth, taking another sip of coffee before lowering it once more to continue his surveillance of the party. This wasn't his scene, he felt out of place, the stiff fabric of his suit making his binder dig in to his ribs as he heaved a sigh. Sasha hailed a server, holding up his mug. "Bring Pot and an extra mug? Thank you." he asked, voice a deep, Ukrainian accented rumble. His 'Thank you' resonated with a genuine warmth that made his sparse speech all the more meaningful. The only thing that made this remotely tolerable was Kamu attending this event alongside him. They didn't have to, but asking them as his plus one felt like it could give him a chance to talk seriously for once, without the risk of catching a bullet. He saw them emerge from their detour to the washroom, his throat suddenly going dry as he took in their outfit for the event. He didn't realize he was staring until the server returned with the extra mug and carafe of coffee as requested. He pushed a few bills in to the young man's hand, nodding approvingly before turning back to Kamu and just blinking at them while trying to act casual. "I appreciate you..." he began, catching himself before following it up, "...coming to this with me." Sasha said plainly, the ever so slight tremor in his hands as he offered the fresh cup of coffee. How in the hell was he going to do this?