Across The Stars: Rocket's Human Heart - A Rocket Raccoon x Male OC Fanfiction

Chapter 4: Bound by Stars

The Milano began to hum, its engines revving up with a low, steady vibration that resonated through the entire ship. Lights flickered on the dashboard, illuminating Rocket's focused expression as he navigated the controls. Ethan watched in awe, the sense of anticipation growing.

The ship shuddered slightly as it lifted off the ground, the scenery outside the cockpit changing from the gritty streets of Xandar to the expansive sky above. The hum of the engines grew louder, and the Milano surged forward, breaking through the planet's atmosphere.

Ethan felt a slight pressure pushing him back into his seat as the ship ascended rapidly. He gripped the armrests, his heart pounding with excitement and a touch of nervousness. Rocket glanced over at him, a confident smirk playing on his lips.

"Not bad, huh?" Rocket called out over the increasing noise.

Ethan managed a smile, nodding. "Yeah, it's incredible." The stars looked so vibrant, and so beautiful. Sure he was a little scared of the initial take off, but he managed to hold his own. It was truly a mesmerizing sight to see.

The vastness of space unfolded before them, an endless expanse of shimmering stars and swirling galaxies. Ethan couldn't help but be captivated by the sheer beauty and scale of it all. It was like nothing he had ever imagined, each star twinkling with a life of its own, casting a soft glow over the cockpit.

Rocket unbuckled his harness and stretched, his furry form moving with a casual grace. "Glad you like it," he said, his voice carrying a hint of pride. "Space has a way of making you feel small, but also like anything's possible."

Ethan unbuckled his own harness, feeling a sense of awe wash over him. "It's... overwhelming, but in a good way. I've never seen anything like this."

Rocket nodded, his eyes reflecting the distant stars. "It can be a lot to take in at first, but you get used to it. Eventually, it feels like home."

Ethan glanced over at Rocket, appreciating the raccoon's candidness. "I can see why you love it out here."

Rocket's ears twitched slightly as he gave a half-smile. "Yeah, it's got its perks. Now, let's get you settled in for the journey. It's gonna be a while before we reach our destination."

Ethan followed Rocket out of the cockpit, still in awe of the starry expanse beyond. The ship hummed with a gentle energy as they moved through the corridors. Rocket plopped down on the sofa, patting the seat next to him with a mischievous glint in his eyes.

Ethan smiled, taking a seat. His hair was still damp from his shower, droplets clinging to the ends. He turned his gaze to meet Rocket's, noticing the subtle grin that tugged at the corners of the procyon's mouth.

"What?" Ethan asked softly, a hint of curiosity in his voice.

"Nothing, you look great in that uniform, especially with your hair all wet like that." Rocket snickered, his eyes lingering on Ethan's form.

"Are you flirting with me?" Ethan asked bluntly, his heart skipping a beat.

Rocket's face contorted slightly as he crossed his arms. "No, just... saying you look good is all. What, can a guy not say something nice?" Beneath his fur, Rocket's cheeks were undoubtedly flushed, a telltale sign of his true intentions, and that damned tail of his couldn't lie.

Ethan chuckled, the sound breaking the momentary tension. "Well, thanks. It's nice to hear something good after everything that's happened."

Rocket relaxed slightly, his posture softening. "Yeah, well, don't get used to it. I'm not known for being mushy."

Ethan leaned back on the sofa, feeling the warmth of Rocket's body close to him. "Duly noted," he said, his voice carrying a playful tone.

Rocket scoffed, scooting on the edge of his seat slightly. He couldn't take his eyes off of Ethan. Deep down he wanted to get to know him more, but the words weren't coming out right. They never did, not for Rocket anyway.