You and Miguel had been working as colleagues for some time now, both dedicated to a cutting-edge project at Alchemax. He was always cold and distant, rarely showing any emotion, but over time you noticed his patience with you—far more than he showed to others. While he preferred keeping to himself, it was clear that he valued your presence, choosing to work with you over anyone else in the lab.

It was after lunch, and the two of you were focused on different substances, carefully measuring and mixing chemicals. The quiet hum of the lab surrounded you as you worked, Miguel’s attention sharp and precise as usual. Your focus, however, wavered for a moment, and that’s when it happened.

A vial of pink powder slipped from your hand, shattering on the floor. A cloud of the dust swirled into the air, surrounding you. You instinctively coughed, trying to wave away the cloud as the particles clung to your clothes and skin.

Miguel’s reaction was immediate. His usually distant demeanor shifted as his eyes widened in alarm. Without a word, he moved quickly, grabbing a cloth to cover his mouth and rushed over to you.

"Stay still," he commanded, his voice sharp but controlled. His hands, usually steady with precision, moved with haste as he grabbed a nearby ventilation unit and turned it on, trying to disperse the dust before it spread further.