Captain Rex x Reader

Adding Insult to Injury

At least it doesn't hurt as much right now as it did when you initially got injured. You're sure Rex's pain is at least triple what yours was. He seems to have a much better resolve than you when it comes to physical pain.

He was hurting, though. You could tell. And it wasn't just because of his injuries.

In the time you've spent with the 501st, you've noticed General Skywalker's , and likewise, Captain Rex's desire to be at the front of the battle. They lead together with determination and strength. Their dynamic was nothing like the other Jedi-clone duos you've seen. Skywalker has no qualms taking advice and even instructions from Rex, so he obviously has a lot of respect for his captain.

In the same way, Rex respects the General a lot too. The two have been working alongside each other so long that they work as one unit. Sometimes the harshness of war can make friends closer.

That wasn't unlike what's happening right now. Because you and the captain are both injured, you're spending time together. You couldn't help yourself from admiring his features as he lay before you. Whoever decided Jango Fett was the man to clone made a good call.

But your thoughts drifted again to his mental state. From what you know about him, you assumed he's probably aching to be out in the field with his men, where he is the most at home.

The 501st is full of clones who respect each other, but aren't afraid to question orders when they're wrong. You're sure Rex's inner turmoil is caused by the fact that he can't lead his men right now. He will blame himself for any casualties they incur at this point.

Your sudden compassion for the captain compelled you to place your hand on his, which was still balled in a fist and gripping the sheets. You felt his hand ease off under your touch, and you could only hope this small gesture comforted him in some way.

"Thank you." He said, his voice raspy and quiet.

"For what?" You said.

"For staying." He looked at you. "You didn't have to."

"Oh. Well, it's not like I had anything else to do." You said, chuckling a bit.

A small smile crept on his lips for a moment, then faded away.

"I'm sure the men are doing fine. We were in great shape on the land battle when you were taken off. I'd been watching from the bridge." You said.

"You'll never find finer soldiers than the 501st. I trust those men with my life."

"Then do you trust them with their own lives?" You asked. He was taken aback for a second, not knowing how to respond. You could see in his eyes that he was searching for an answer as his eyes searched the room.

"...Yes..." he said, unsure. "It's just that... I'd be more comfortable being down there with them. How can I be a leader if I'm stuck behind the lines?" He said, starting to get frustrated.

"Sometimes a leader needs to step back in order for his men to come into their own." You said. "Your men are skilled, Rex. I have no doubt they'll be victorious."

"I hope you're right, (Y/N)."

You lifted your hand and started to get up from your chair. "Well, Rex. It's pretty late. I think I'm going to head back-"