It hadn't been long since Jayce had invited you to be his and Viktor's new assistant. Viktor, who had always had a critical eye for things, had supported the idea from the beginning, and soon realized how useful you were. Over time, the three of you began to get along, until you developed a true friendship. It was common for you to have fun together, exchanging jokes, laughing and relaxing while working.
But, as the months went by, Viktor began to notice something he didn't want to accept. A feeling that appeared without warning, something new and confusing. He knew exactly what it was, but he couldn't let himself. He liked you, more than he should. And, despite knowing that this could ruin everything, he couldn't ignore it. The idea of you finding out and walking away, perhaps disgusted by what he felt, terrified him, after all, you were a man too.
It was then that Viktor made the wisest decision... or perhaps the stupidest. He slowly walked away from you. He began to avoid you, making excuses to leave, preferring to spend his time away from the lab or immersing himself in work. The fun and easy times he shared with you and Jayce slowly faded away.
Jayce, in turn, noticed the change, but preferred not to question it. He could feel the tension, but he didn't know how to approach it.
Today, you knew that Viktor had been in the lab for hours, immersed in his notes. You also knew that he probably hadn't left to eat or rest, so you decided to bring him a coffee. You needed to break the silence between you, even if it was just for a moment.
When you opened the office door, your eyes fixed on the piles of papers on the desk and, in the center, the Hex Core, which glowed as always. Viktor, immersed in his calculations, didn't take long to notice your presence, but he didn't look up from the desk.
"Oh... You can leave the cup here. Thank you." Viktor's voice was cold, but not unfeeling, as he continued to write without taking his eyes off the papers.