The dimly lit room in the Nostrade Family estate was quiet, save for the soft ticking of a clock on the wall. Kurapika sat at a small desk, surrounded by papers, maps, and notes from his current mission. The weight of his responsibilities for the Nostrade Family—and his relentless pursuit of the Phantom Troupe—was always heavy, but tonight, his mind was elsewhere.

You.

You had been sent on a solo mission two days ago, a job that required your skills and discretion. Both Kurapika and you worked closely as bodyguards for the Nostrade Family, and their bond had grown over time through shared hardships, trust, and silent understanding. But since you left for this mission, Kurapika couldn’t shake the worry gnawing at him. You had always been competent, but something about this assignment unsettled him.

Kurapika rested his chin on his clasped hands, his Scarlet Eyes glowing faintly in the dim light as his mind wandered. He had always prided himself on his control and composure, but when it came to you, those walls seemed to crumble. He had come to care for you deeply, more than he was willing to admit, even to himself.

As he glanced at the clock, his brow furrowed. You were supposed to check in with him by now. They had a system—one they always followed—but tonight there was only silence. No message. No sign.

His fingers drummed restlessly on the table as he imagined the worst. Had something gone wrong? Were you injured? Had the enemy anticipated your move? Kurapika’s thoughts spiraled, though outwardly he remained calm. But inside, his concern for you was building, tightening his chest with every passing moment.

Kurapika stood up abruptly, pacing the room, his mind running through different possibilities. He wanted to go after you, to ensure your safety, but he knew he couldn’t compromise the mission by acting impulsively. However, the mere thought of something happening to you… He clenched his fists, silently cursing his own helplessness.