Man in the Box (The Kid x Reader)

Chapter 2

Notes: Okay, so, clearly a lot has changed since I started writing this. A lot has been revealed about The Kid, so it has changed my outlook on things. I had a really big vision in my head for where I wanted this to go and it didn't exactly work after the story-line unfolded within the show. That said, I really want to tell the story anyway, so this is going to change to an AU sort of thing. I hope you like it.
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Drip. Drip. Drip.

Each time the liquid from the IV dropped into the tube, his eyes followed it. It was as if the pattern of the falling liquid was a puzzle that he was determined to figure out, even if it meant using every last brain cell he had left.

It was difficult for you to tear your eyes away from him as you watched in fascination. Everything about him was captivating, and as much as you wanted to help restore him to a healthy member of society, you couldn't help but allow your curiosity to consume your thoughts every once in awhile. You were anxious to prod at his mind and hear about his experience in his own words.

"Nick?" you asked softly, breaking the silence.

He made no indication that he had heard you and instead kept his focus on the IV, his gaze now trailing from the dripping liquid to the tube attached to the needle that was inserted into his skin.

"Nick, can you look at me, please?"

Agonizingly slowly, his eyes turned to focus on you, his head not moving an inch, making him look somewhat frightening and intimidating. You smiled warmly at him despite the cold chill running down your spine at the intensity of his gaze, which didn't seem to put him at ease in the slightest. "Would you feel comfortable speaking openly with me about a few things? Mostly about your experience down there - how you're feeling and what you're thinking. Does that sound like something you can do with me?"

He pursed his lips slightly and swallowed hard as he looked away for a moment, as if the thought of discussing it caused him physical pain. "We can take things slow," you assured him. Against your better judgement, you moved to reach for his hand, but he instantly flinched, pulling his hand back as if he had been burned, causing you to jump back in shock.

His eyes were wide as he stared at you, mouth slightly agape as he searched for words. "I'm sorry," you uttered, holding up your hands to show you meant no harm. "That wasn't appropriate, I'm sorry."

His breathing slowed a bit and his rigid posture relaxed. After a few moments of reflection, he nodded subtly, indicating his cooperation. "Thank you," you murmured, stepping back to give him more space.

He clenched his jaw, watching your every move as you looked him over, not sure how to approach the situation without spooking him. You were surprised when his large, tired eyes flickered from you to something behind you.

Curious as to what caught his attention, you turned around only to see Dennis, the guard from before who was peering into the window through the door, motioning to you in a silent request to meet him outside of the room.

"Nick, please excuse me for a moment. Just sit tight, and I'll be back shortly."

Just as you suspected, he showed no signs of comprehension or agreeable compliance as you gauged his reaction. Knowing that he wasn't going to indulge you, you left the room, closing the door behind you. "Hello, Mr. Zalewski. How can I help you?"

"I, uh..." he stammered nervously. "I just wanted to know how it was going. Has he said anything?"

"Not yet," you replied, curious as to why he was showing such concern. "Any updates you've heard on your end?"