Chapter Text
The scowling face in the mirror didn’t change the longer he stared at it.
There was an array of lotions, moisturizers, beard oils, hair masks, face masks, and more lined up on the bathroom counter. Welcome gifts when he arrived at New Overwatch’s HQ, once a previous Watchpoint renovated to fit the growing organization. Hanzo isn’t sure who spread the idea that he was a fan of preening himself - although he had his suspicions - but the self-care themed gifts piled at his door as he tried to settle in.
Tried. He trusted his brother that this was another step in his path to redemption. Giving up his life as a mercenary in favor of a vigilante organization isn’t much more legal, but it gives him a chance to help instead of hurt.
Hanzo was so used to hurting. Against his better judgment, he listened to advice. Mei told him to have a ‘self-care night’. Treat himself even if he doesn’t believe he deserves it. So here he was. Glaring at a mirror. Staring at the daunting pile of floral-scented bottles without making a decision.
His fingers tapped on the bathroom counter. The longer he stood there, the more overwhelming the options seemed. How did people do this daily? Self-care isn’t for people like him. Soft skin and glossy hair are for those whose spirits match. His hands are rough, calloused where he holds his bowstring, and there’s stains no one else can see. His heart beats heavy in his chest.
At one point in his life, this feeling may have suffocated him until he left, the struggle to breathe making him believe it was the very building itself that crushed him. Now, after a handful of professional advice from Dr. Zeigler, and a prescription for anxiety, Hanzo took a breath. Meditation. He will start there.
Among the pile of gifts was a small bundle of incense. He picked it up, deeply inhaling, and read the note scrawled in messy English.
Genji said it was your favorite. Welcome to the team, darling. - C. Cassidy
A smile took his face without him realizing it. Hanzo plucked a stick from the bundle and set it on his holder. He lit it with a quick flick of a lighter and kneeled, already feeling the tension melt away as he breathed the grounding scent of jasmine.