Rogue agents 1: The prima ballerina

Much needed rest

*Karolina*

The room is quiet, save for the soft ticking of the clock on the wall. I lie in bed, staring at the ceiling, trying to will myself to sleep. But every time I close my eyes, the chaos of the past few days floods my mind, refusing to let me rest. My father’s face, Ryan’s voice, the fear and uncertainty that have become my constant companions… it all swirls around me, making it impossible to find peace. Also I realize that being used to Living in cities, this place is eerily quiet.

I roll onto my side, pulling the blanket closer, but it’s no use. The thought of Ryan standing guard outside my door tugs at my conscience. Despite the banter and bravado, there’s something about him that seems genuine, like he truly wants to protect me. And yet, I’ve been taught my whole life to trust no one. No one except my father, and it seems I could trust him least of all.

Finally, with a resigned sigh, I sit up and swing my legs over the side of the bed. The cool floor against my feet grounds me, helps me focus. I get up and quietly cross the room, opening the door just enough to see Ryan leaning against the wall, his arms folded, eyes closed but clearly alert.

“Ryan,” I call softly, and his eyes snap open, immediately focused on me.

“Can’t sleep?” he asks, pushing himself off the wall with a lazy grace that belies his readiness.

“Not really,” I admit, feeling a strange mix of vulnerability and determination. “I feel bad knowing you’re standing out here all night. You can come in, if you want.”

He raises an eyebrow, clearly surprised by the offer. “You sure about that? I wouldn’t want to impose on your… abduction space.”

I roll my eyes at his teasing but step back to let him in. “You’re not imposing. Besides, I might need you to fend off any ghosts or monsters lurking in the shadows,” I reply with a small smile, trying to lighten the mood.

He chuckles, stepping inside and looking around before settling into the chair by the window. “I’ve got you covered, don’t worry. the monsters under the bed and in the closet will stay there.”

But watching him trying to make himself comfortable in that chair, I can’t help but feel a pang of guilt. “You know, you can lie on the bed… if you stay on your side,” I offer, my voice softer.

His eyes meet mine, surprise flickering within them. “I’ll be fine here,” he says, but there’s a hint of hesitation.

“Seriously, Ryan. It’s not like I’m going to kick you out of bed. Just stay on your side,” I insist, feeling a strange sense of camaraderie forming.

He nods, moving to sit on the edge of the bed, careful to keep his distance. “Thanks, Karolina,” he says quietly, his tone sincere.

We both lie back, the silence between us comfortable despite the circumstances. I find myself glancing over at him, watching as he stares up at the ceiling, lost in thought.

“Do you ever sleep?” I ask, curiosity getting the better of me.

“Rarely,” he replies with a smirk. “I guess you could say I’m always on guard.”

“Isn’t that exhausting?” I wonder aloud, trying to imagine living with such constant vigilance, not to mention not sleeping.

“It can be. But it’s worth it if it means keeping you… or whoever I try to protect… safe,” he says, his gaze meeting mine, and I feel a flutter of something unfamiliar in my chest.

We fall back into a companionable silence, the tension between us easing a little. I find myself relaxing, the weight of the day slowly lifting. For the first time in what feels like forever, I start to drift, comforted by the presence of someone who, despite everything, seems to have my back.

“Goodnight, Ryan,” I murmur, letting my eyes close.

“Goodnight, Karolina,” he replies softly, and I hear the faintest hint of a smile in his voice.

As sleep finally begins to claim me, I realize that maybe, just maybe, I am safe here.

*Ryan*

Lying on the edge of the bed, I try to find a comfortable position, all the while hyper-aware of Karolina sleeping beside me. It’s strange to be in this situation… watching over someone who, just a short while ago, was little more than a name on a file. Now, she’s a person I desperately want to protect.

I shut my eyes, willing myself to get some rest, but my mind refuses to quiet down. I can hear Karolina’s steady breathing, a rhythmic reminder of the trust she’s placed in me, and it’s both humbling and terrifying. I keep telling myself that I’m unaffected, that this is just another job. But deep down, I know that’s not true.

As I finally start to drift off, Karolina shifts in her sleep. I feel her turn, and before I know it, she’s snuggled against my side, her head resting lightly on my shoulder. Instinctively, I freeze, my heart skipping a beat.

I tell myself it doesn’t mean anything. She’s just seeking warmth and comfort in her sleep, probably not even aware of what she’s doing. But the soft weight of her against me, the warmth of her presence… it’s a distraction I hadn’t anticipated.

I take a deep breath, reminding myself of the stakes. This isn’t the time to let emotions cloud my judgment. I’m here to protect her, to keep her safe from the looming threats, and honestly to use her to keep us safe. I repeat these thoughts like a mantra, trying to refocus.

But as she settles against me, a small sigh escaping her lips, I can’t help but feel a sense of protectiveness that goes beyond duty. I shift slightly, careful not to wake her, and let my eyes close again, determined to stay alert despite the fatigue tugging at me.

Even as I lie there, telling myself I’m not affected, I know it’s a lie. There’s a connection between us, undeniable and unexpected, and it scares me as much as it intrigues me. I just hope, when the time comes, I’m strong enough to do what’s right for her, no matter the cost.