A Heart in the Machine (Serial Designation V x Reader)

Chapter 3: Fractured Focus

"So..." she started quietly, her voice just above a whisper, "how do you, uh... like it here? I mean, working for... the family?"

The question surprised you, especially coming from V, who usually brushed off any kind of small talk. But now, her expression seemed almost nervous, her optic sensors flickering slightly as if she was second-guessing herself. You took a moment, not wanting to make her more uncomfortable than she already seemed.

"It's... different," you answered carefully. "There's always work to do, but it can be intense sometimes. Especially with... well, how strict the family can be."

V's mouth twisted into a half-smile, and she let out a quiet, humorless chuckle. "Yeah... you're telling me." She hesitated again, looking down at her hands, which were fiddling with the edge of her apron. "But... I mean... is that why you're here? Just for the job?"

Her voice was softer than usual, and there was an unusual vulnerability in her tone that caught you off guard. For a moment, she looked like she regretted asking, her fingers now still as she waited for your answer.

"Honestly, no," you said, choosing your words gently. "I like being here. Not just for the work, but... well, I like being around you and the other drones."

She blinked, her sensors widening slightly as she glanced at you, a faint hue warming the edge of her faceplate. "Really? I mean, with me?" She quickly looked down, her voice dropping to almost a murmur. "You... don't think it's weird? Being around... drones?"

You smiled, hoping to reassure her. "Not at all. I think you're all pretty amazing, to be honest. And you're... well, you're more than just drones to me. You've got your own personalities, your own way of looking at things. I don't see you as any less than... well, anyone else."

V's gaze remained downcast, but a small, shy smile crept onto her face. She looked almost relieved, though she kept her voice quiet and steady. "Huh... I guess that's... good to know." Her fingers fiddled with her apron again, her sensors flickering as she seemed to struggle with what to say next.

"Thanks," she finally mumbled, her voice barely audible. "And, um... sorry, if that was... weird to ask." She glanced up quickly, her faceplate coloring slightly. "I don't usually... ask stuff like that."

"It's fine," you said gently. "I'm glad you did."

She gave a small nod, the faintest hint of a smile still lingering as she got off the stool. "Well... I guess I'll let you get back to work," she said softly, glancing away but not before meeting your gaze one last time.

As she turned to leave, you could tell she was walking a little slower than usual, almost reluctant to step back into the harsh, orderly world outside the workshop. It left you with a strange feeling—a warmth mixed with a bit of unease, wondering just what was going on in her mind.

After V left the workshop, her quiet, almost shy questions lingered with you. The way she'd hesitated, her tone softer than usual—it was unlike her, and it stirred something in you. An idea began to form as you looked around your workshop, your gaze landing on a small gemstone tucked among the spare parts and scraps.

The stone was a deep, smoky blue, one you'd kept from an old project and had nearly forgotten about. Paired with a sleek, dark ribbon and a few tiny gears, it could make a nice little brooch—a small token that could add a bit of personality to her uniform, something unique just for her.

You worked carefully, twisting the ribbon into a neat loop around the gem, then fastening it with fine wire to create a sturdy but delicate frame. Adding a few miniature gears, you made sure the whole piece held together well. The final touch was a pin you attached to the back, allowing her to fasten it to her apron or collar.