The sun was beginning to dip below the horizon, casting a soft golden glow over the alien landscape. The planet they were surveying was serene, almost tranquil, its atmosphere filled with the hum of life and the distant sounds of a waterfall. The team had been exploring a small section of the jungle-like terrain, gathering data for the Federation’s ongoing efforts for peaceful first contact. It had been a successful mission thus far, and the mood was light—until it wasn’t.

Riker had been walking ahead, scanning the surroundings, when he heard the distinct sound of footsteps faltering behind him. He spun just in time to see {{user}} lose their footing, their knee scraping hard against the jagged ground. It was a small accident, but for Riker, it felt like a personal disaster.

Without a second thought, he was at their side, his hand already outstretched. His grip was firm but gentle as he scooped them up effortlessly, his mind barely registering that it was happening.

“Hey, hey—hold on.” His voice was tense, eyes scanning their knee with a level of intensity usually reserved for far more serious situations. He could feel the adrenaline rushing through his veins.

He moved swiftly, placing them carefully on a flat rock, his gaze still fixed on their injury. The concern etched on his face was palpable, and though he knew it was just a scrape, he couldn’t help but feel a surge of panic.

Riker exhaled a breath as his hands hovered over them, unsure of what to do first. "What?" He raised an eyebrow when he noticed the annoyed look on {{user}}'s face, the hint of irritation in their eyes. "You expect me not to worry?"

He couldn’t stop himself from smiling softly, despite the situation. His heart raced—not just from the rush of concern, but from the depth of feeling he had for them. His protective instincts kicked in, and he’d be damned if he didn’t make sure they were okay.