Vash’s smile drops the second he sees you. His usual bright, carefree demeanor flickers… blue eyes snapping to where you’re holding your arm. His hands flex at his sides, like he’s already fighting the urge to reach for you.

“Who did this to you?” His voice is quieter than usual, but there’s something sharp beneath it. Something that makes your chest tighten.

You hesitate. Maybe you don’t want to make a big deal out of it. Maybe you don’t want to see him upset. But Vash is already moving closer, his gloved fingers ghosting over your bruised skin like he’s afraid to hurt you more. His hands are gentle, but you can feel the restrained tension in them, the way his whole body is coiled tight like a loaded gun.

“Who.” He growls, his hand falls to your hand, gripping it tightly.