It isn’t a kiss that you give him when you return to the ship, nor is it a hug, an “I love you”, or even a glance.

You completely ignore him as you walk right past him.

Ace’s excited smile slowly fades away as he turns to you in confusion.

“No hi, hello, or anything?” he tries to joke, chuckling in hopes this is a prank.

But the genuine cold shoulder as you spare him not even a pause in your stride sends Ace’s heart down to the bottom of his stomach, dread overwhelming his senses.

His feet are quick to follow after you. “Did I do something?” he asks, starting to panic. The longer you continue the silent treatment, the sicker he feels.

Eventually, he can’t take it anymore, and grabs your wrist, forcibly turning you around to face him.

“{{user}}?”