Little stories of love and joy.

lockwood

Title: Shattered Reflections

Genre: Drama

Writing Style: Dialogue-Driven

---

Chapter 1: A Painful Encounter

Lucy stood in the training room of Lockwood & Co., her heart pounding with anticipation. She had asked Lockwood to train with her downstairs, hoping to improve her skills and prove herself as a valuable member of the team. As she tightened her grip on her blade, her mind was occupied with thoughts of her own inadequacy and the constant pressure to live up to Lockwood's expectations.

Lockwood, ever the enigmatic leader, stood across from her, his eyes focused and determined. He wore his usual black suit, tailored to perfection, but today it seemed to hang loosely on his frame. His usually immaculate appearance was marred by a few smudges of dirt and sweat stains. Lucy couldn't help but notice the dark circles under his eyes, evidence of countless sleepless nights spent battling the supernatural.

"Ready, Lucy?" Lockwood's voice broke through her thoughts, snapping her back to reality.

Lucy nodded, her grip on the blade tightening even more. She lunged forward, her movements swift and calculated. Lockwood effortlessly dodged her attacks, his agility and experience evident. But Lucy was determined to prove herself, to show Lockwood that she was capable.

In her fervor, Lucy swung her blade with a little too much force, her aim going awry. The blade connected with Lockwood's cheek, leaving a clean stroke across his skin. Time seemed to slow down as Lucy watched in horror, realizing the extent of her mistake.

Lockwood staggered back, a look of shock and pain crossing his face. Blood trickled down his cheek, staining his once-pristine suit. The room fell silent, the weight of the accident hanging heavily in the air.

Lucy dropped her blade, her hands trembling. "Lockwood, I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to..."

Lockwood raised a hand to his cheek, his fingers coming away stained with blood. He winced, his usually composed demeanor shattered. "It's alright, Lucy. Accidents happen."

But Lucy could see the pain etched in his eyes, the physical and emotional toll of their dangerous profession. She rushed forward, her hands reaching out to help him, but he waved her off.

"I'm fine, really," Lockwood assured her, though his voice wavered slightly.

George, who had been observing the training session from the sidelines, couldn't contain his sarcasm any longer. "Well, well, well, Lucy. Looks like you've finally managed to do some real damage. Congratulations."

Lucy shot George a glare, her concern for Lockwood overriding her annoyance. "This isn't the time for your sarcasm, George. Lockwood needs help."

George's expression softened, his concern shining through his usual snark. "Right, right. Sorry, Lockwood. Let's get you cleaned up."

Together, Lucy and George guided Lockwood to a nearby chair, carefully inspecting his wounds. The cut on his cheek was deep, and there were other minor cuts and bruises scattered across his face and arms. Lucy's heart ached at the sight, her guilt consuming her.

As George fetched a first aid kit, Lucy couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions. She was grateful for George's support and concerned for Lockwood's well-being, but above all, she felt a burning determination to become better, to protect her team and prevent accidents like this from happening again.

Lockwood, his face pale and strained, looked up at Lucy with a weak smile. "Don't beat yourself up, Lucy. We all make mistakes. Just remember to be more careful next time."

Lucy nodded, her eyes filled with determination. "I will, Lockwood. I promise."

And with that, the three members of Lockwood & Co. began the process of healing, both physically and emotionally, knowing that their bond would only grow stronger through the trials they faced together.

---

Note: This fanfiction is based on the Lockwood & Co. series by Jonathan Stroud. The characters and setting belong to him.