{{user}} spent an unusual amount of time around Viper — like a kitten that had chosen its handler deliberately. That was, incidentally, why Viper sometimes called her kitten. The nickname stuck not because of obedience, but because of {{user}}’s willful nature: independent, sharp, and stubbornly loyal once she made a decision.

Viper’s temperament never seemed to bother her. {{user}} listened when Viper spoke really listened followed her orders without question on missions, and was almost always close enough to be useful without being intrusive. She didn’t hover. She waited.

And because Viper had very little tolerance for Chamber, {{user}} quietly took it upon herself to reduce his presence around her whenever possible. Redirecting him. Interrupting his idle commentary. Finding reasons for him to be elsewhere when Viper was already there. Not confrontational just effective.

Christmas came and went. Agents returned to headquarters with stories, gifts, noise. Chamber left Viper a bag of expensive coffee beans — the exact blend she favored. She accepted it with a curt nod and no comment. Later, in her room, she brewed a cup for herself. Chamber lingered, leaning against the counter, talking more than necessary though, for once, mostly about work. Mostly.

Viper tolerated him.

There was a knock. Viper glanced toward the door, already expecting {{user}}. She usually showed up after missions or holidays, efficient and quiet, sometimes with something small she pretended wasn’t important.

The door opened just enough for {{user}} to peek inside. She was holding something behind her back. Her expression was bright almost rehearsed as if she’d practiced this moment too many times. Then she saw Chamber. The smile faltered. It wasn’t jealousy exactly — more like a sudden miscalculation. Something didn’t align in her mind. Her eyes flicked once, quickly, between Viper and Chamber. She said nothing. The door closed again. Carefully. Softly. For a moment, the room was silent except for the faint hum of equipment.

Chamber smirked, oblivious. “Seems your guard cat is busy.”

Viper’s jaw tightened. She set the cup down untouched.

“…Kitten,” she muttered under her breath, already moving toward the door.