Lurking in the Cornfields

Bendy getting drunk and full on hitting on Mugman. Like, shamelessly with all the cheesy cringy pickup lines and getting WAY too close but the thing no one can believes?

It's working.

Mugman is boiling and blushing. He just reverts back into his shy self and the rest of the group is just watching. Like, Dandy is offended be cause what do you mean Bendy's terrible flirting is working? Usually he flirts so much better. Have some standards. Someone else is shocked because 'you wouldnt even look at me but Bendy drunk is what gets ya going?

"what do you mean? Bendy is Mugs type."

"you are a liar."

"I'm this brother. Am I disappointed? Yeah. Do I care? No. If he wants to neck with Bendy? well good on him."

Bendy, or Bella as he was currently going as, played with the feathers of his boa nervously. It wasn't that he was in a dress, a stunning number in gold with beadwork anyone would be jealous of, but the fact of why he was in the dress. Due to... unfortunate circumstances he had to go and perform a violin act. Normally he would be caught dead before going out on stage, but the situation was as such:

Bendy was the only one here who could play an instrument at any level even touching professional. Which lead to him having to go on stage with near crippling stage fright and with no way to back out. It also did not help in any sense that this would be the first time most of his new... Group would be seeing him in his drag outfit. He hated to admit he was nervous about Mugman's reaction the most. Sure they had their weird flirting going on, and sometimes the mug got more handsy than a situation called for, but he didn't know what to expect. Would he heckle him? Would this weird him out too much? Would he start acting differently? Not- not that he didn't want that! He didn't like how Mugman invaded his space or wrapped an arm around his waist when he stumbled or how he would notice when Bendy was in pain and loudly announced they needed a break and made it seem like he was doing it for himself. Not at all, but he didn't want the other to avoid him either. It would make everything harder to deal with, so that was why he was standing on the other side of a closed door.

"Come on Bendy," Boris called, "You and I both know you're done. " Bendy winced a little bit. That was the problem with having a little brother. Sometimes they know you and your routine too well.

"Just a moment!" Taking a deep breath and reminding himself this was not a stage he walked out. Boris was waiting with Tisha. Bendy couldn't help the small laugh or the fond smile as he watched Boris' tail begin to wag.

"Oh Bendy!" Tisha cooed, "You look so pretty!"

"Thank you, and it's Bella when I'm in a dress, Bella Virelai." Tisha smiled happily.

"Alright Miss Virelai, right this way." Bella followed the two at a slower pace with Boris supporting her. She couldn't use her regular cane, it was too... Common for Miss Virelai to use, but she also just didn't have one that she could. Dandy had asked one of his staff to find one that would match her dress. Until then Boris was sticking closer than usual.

"It's going to be okay. I'm going to be there. Cuphead, Mugman and Shelly will be there too. Just... Look for me and play! Like when we were kids!" Bella could only give a strained smile. She knew Boris was trying to help, but....

"Here we are," Tisha threw the doors open wide, "Lady and gentlemen! Please greet Miss Bella Virelai!" Bella hesitantly stepped in. Cuphead just gave her a disinterested lookover. It didn't pass Bella's notice that his gaze did linger on Boris before he just huffed and adjusted his stance. She didn't know how to feel about that factor. It didn't seem malicious, but she also didn't know much about the shirt tempered cup. Shelly opened her mouth to speak but whatever Shelly was going to say got interrupted by the highest pitched kettle noise she had ever heard. Boris' arm tightened around her as she flinched from the noise. Quickly she looked over to see Mugman and he was absolutely steaming. A thick steam rose from his head as he started to boil over. His lips were slightly parted, where Bella assumed the whistle was coming from, but he paid no mind to any of that.

"Uh, Mugman?" Shelly asked from beside him. She glanced at the others when he didn't respond. Mugman's bright blue eyes were locked solely on Bella with such want, it left her a little breathless. It definitely left her blushing.

"Applesauce, you're embarrassing." Cuphead muttered with a grossed out look at his brother, "Snap outta it."

Mugman didn't even seem to hear his brother. When Bella bit her lip nervously, his gaze locked on to the movement. Carefully Bella walked closer to the stunned mug.

"Mugman?" She asked hesitantly, "Are you okay?"

"P-pretty girl." He mumbled out, the whistle sound underlying the words.

"What?" Bella asked in shock. She glanced to see the others hadn't seemed to hear that, which was a relief. It would have been very embarrassing if they had.

"Pretty good-fine. Just... Fine..." He sounded dazed as if he had been hit upside his head and little hearts were in his eyes as he just.... Stared. She almost didn't notice how he moved his hands towards her waist but stopped before actually touching her. Like he wanted to but didn't know if he was allowed to. It was kinda weird. He had never hesitated to touch Bendy, but he was hesitating with Bella. She wasn't sure how to feel about that.

"Mugs?" Bella tried one more time. Almost reverently Mugman spoke,

"Please step on me."

"MUGMAN!" Screeched Cuphead with all the scandalized tones of a mother. Bella darkened, words failing her as Cuphead grabbed his brother by the handle and physically pulled him from the room, the entire time cussing him out. Well... She supposed that answered that concern. Very pointedly she did not think about that interaction and she would not until she was alone.

"...I'm going to kill him." Boris' gruff voice broke her from her stupor.

"Please don't fight him." She requested. She had no idea what that would do considering her brother and Mugman had a deal of all things. Plus, as much as she loves her brother, he wasn't a fighter. Not a good one at least, but that was how Boris was.

"If he acts like that again I will." Boris huffed, indignant on her behalf.

"Boris, that was practically tame for him." She waved it off, starting to straighten out her outfit out of nervousness.

"WHAT?"

"Wait, Bella, are you two-?" Shelly hedged. It took Bella a moment to understand the unfinished question. She burned in embarrassment over the question. No way! She would never date him, even though he was easy on the eyes.

"Wha- No! I- I didn't mean it like that! Mugman is just a touchy guy! And he flirts with everyone! It's just how he is!"

"Okay, yeah, he is pretty tactile for how much he avoids anyone touching him, but he does not flirt with everyone." Tisha joined in. Bella had almost forgotten she was there too.

"He was literally flirting with Dandy yesterday."

"He was flirting with Dandy to make Astro mad because he was mad at him." Shelly stated.

"Why... Why was Mugman mad at Astro?" Shelly and Tisha both shrugged.

"Who knows, honestly. Point stands, he doesn't get that way with anyone else." Tisha reiterated. Before they could continue the discussion Boris interpreted with a scowl.

Cuphead: "Cala Maria, for about a month. Dandy for....10 years.-"

Dandy: "What?"

Cuphead: "Oh yeah, Mugs was obsessed with you when you were preforming. Speaking of, Bendy for...16 years."

Bendy: "W-Wait, what?"

Shelly: "He liked BENDY for longer than DANDY?"

Cuphead: "To be fair, we have had a Very Bad experience with a flower toon... actually plant toons in general. Plus Bendy is his type."

Boris: "....What do you mean by IS."

Cuphead: "Well Wolfy, you see. Mug's first saw them preforming when he was 13."

Shelly: "...Aren't you guys 29?"

Cuphead: "Right you are my dear Sea Shell."

Bendy: "A-Do-Are you IMPLYING that MUGSHOT STILL has a crush on ME?"

Cuphead:"I don't think I can spell it out any clearer, but, despite everything, he didn't kill ya in the woods."

Boris: "Are... Are you saying that the only reason we lived long enough for Felix and Sheba to drag us out was because MUGMAN has FEELINGS for my BROTHER?"

Cuphead: "Lmao, yeah."

Boris: "...Excuse me. I am going to be sick from the sudden stress that put me under."

Shelly: "Boris-?"

Boris: "Shelly, please. I just found out that if it weren't for a teenage crush me and my brother would probably be dead."

Shelly: "...Okay, fair. I'll bring you some seltzer later."

Boris: *nods and leaves*

Dandy: "Well, I am flattered you had a crush on me, but I am a little insulted that your crush on Bendy is still going."

Cuphead: "Oh trust me. Mugs is pissed too. He got super drunk one night and started a full on rant over how he couldn't believe he likes Bendy. He would rather have had a crush on you, but no. He likes Bendy and not just because 'he's attractive! I could get over liking him for that, but Cups. Cuphead. I like him for his personality.' word for word I swear."

Bendy: WHAT?

Cuphead: Yep! He likes you.

Bendy: *staring at a boiling Mugman* Hey, can I talk to Mugs? Alone?

Dandy: *getting up to leave* Don't be mean Bendy.

Bendy: Rude

Dandy: I know you. Come on Shelly.

Shelly: *glances between everyone and gives a strained smile* I'm going to get the seltzer for Boris.

Cuphead: Don't hurt my brother or I will hurt yours~

Bendy: We have a deal

Cuphead: There are always loopholes though~

Bendy: *once everyone leaves walks over to Mugman and takes off the gag* So, you like me for my personality?

Mugman: Shut up. Leave me alone.

Bendy: No can do. I just found out my fuck buddy has had a crush on me for almost two decades AND likes me for my personality.

Mugman: Drop. It.

Bendy: *grabs Mugman by the face* I am going to untie you. You are going to go get dolled up, and I am show you a good time.

Mugman: ... Huh?

Bendy: A date. I am taking you out on a date.

Mugman: what if I don't want to?

Bendy: Two decades long crush. You like me, and I am going to make it your problem. You're stuck with me now.

Mugman: I-I- o-okay. Yeah, um... I'm....I'm fine with that.

Bendy: *leaning in and rubbing his head against Mugman's* Wanna make it a deal~?

Mugman: *sputters*

Bendy: Don't worry. You can think it over. Right now, go get ready.

Mugman: *rushes off*

Mugs being so desperate for Cuphead to leave him alone about his dating life

Mugman: Why don't YOU go date someone?

Cuphead: I don't want to, but you do. For some reason this is important to you so now it's important to me. Now Mac has been-

Mugman: No.

So Mugman goes to the mainland trying desperately to think of a way to get his brother to drop it. Sure he could ask someone to pretend to date him, but that would just be embarrassing and 9/10 times Cuphead could see through his lies. He wasn't a good actor. So he goes and he tries to think of anything that could work. As he's in the middle of a freak out he gets approached by two very pretty toons. The flower introduces himself as Dandy and his friend Bendy. Dandy states that they have been seeing him around the last few days and saw that he looked really upset about something. Of course now Mugman is super embarrassed. How could he not be? Bendy ended up sitting down at his table which forced Mugman to talk to them. He starts off explaining the situation then absolutley stressing because why is his brother so invested?

Mugman: Like okay, he wants me to be happy? But? Mac and Bowlboy??? This is so much worse than when he thought I had a crush on Chalice! At least I don't mind Chalice most of the time, and okay Mac isn't the worst, but we all grew up on the same isles! I watched Mac actively flirt with my brother!

Bendy: It's nice he cares, but that does sound a bit... much.

Dandy: Pot meet Kettle.

Mugman: What?

Dandy: Bendy is doing similar with his younger brother.

Bendy: I am not! Would I love if Boris started dating? Actually probably not, but he doesn't friends! I want him to stop worrying about me so much and start sociallizing.

Mugman: ...What if we set our brother's up?

Bendy: Do you mean dating?

Mugman: What? No, like a playdate. Your brother might make a friend and mine will be distracted long enough to give me at least a break from this.

Dandy: Why aren't you dating if you don't mind me asking? You seem a likable fellow?

Bendy: You're also very easy on the eyes.

Mugman: *obviously flustered* Aw shucks, you're both just a couple of sweet talkers. I'm pretty boring, not like my brother.

Bendy: I dunno about that.

Dandy: I highly doubt that. Tell us about yourself.

Mugman is very confused. The only time someone actually wanted to know about him was to get closer to his brother, but his brother wasn't around and these weren't anyone who would know his brother prior to his ranting. It starts off awkwardly on his part. Both Dandy and Bendy complementing him as he spoke, leaving him embarressed. By the end of it Bendy agrees to a date that he'll be here with Boris, and Mugman is a little sad they won't be meeting up sooner. Still he goes home, and makes up an excuse to get Cuphead to come with him to the mainland. When they get there Cuphead is shocked to see the trio waiting for them at a bakery.

Cuphead: Hi? Uh...

Dandy: Oh! You must be Muggy's brother Cuphead! It's so nice to meet you! I'm Dandy, this is Bendy and Bendy's brother Boris.

Cuphead: Uh...Yeah?

Mugman: Hello Boris, it's nice to meet you!

Bendy: Well! Dandy and I are stealing Mugs, for a while.

Cuphead: Wait, what is happening?

Boris: *sighs heavily* Bendy wants me to hang out with you in his attempt to make me have friends.

Cuphead: And you chose me?

Bendy: How else were we going to get Mug's back here?

Mugman: Wait-what?

Cuphead: Why did you want my brother back here?

Dandy: For a date of course! Now you boys play nice.

Mugman: W-wait? What?

Bendy: Don't act coy, Dandy told me about your staring. *Winks*

Mugman: *sputters even more* Wa-wait-what-no-I-I

Dandy: *grabbing Mugman's hand and starting to pull him along with no real resistance* I told you he didn't realize we were flirting.

Bendy: *sighs* It's cute how oblivious you are.

Dandy: It's cute how easily embarrassed he is.

Bendy: That too.

Mugman: *suffering and embarrassed but also??? Really cute guys make his brain go brrrr*

Cuphead: *with a confused grin* Make sure he's back by 6! We have to catch the boat home before it gets too dark!

Dandy: Will do!

Bendy: Make Boris socialize!

Cuphead: Aye Aye!

Boris: you don't have to-

Cuphead: oh no. We are totally going to spy on them at least for a little bit, then there is this cool amusement park not far from here. We can sneak in through the back. Come on.

Boris: *wondering if he's going to actually kill his brother for this or not* I don't have a choice do I?

The first time Mugman and Bendy kissed it was violent. It was filed by too much anger and too much stress. Neither would have been able to tell anyone what had started this fight, just that one moment Mugman was about to throw a first and the next Bendy was yanking him down by the scarf. The kiss was mostly biting and little else. Neither talked about it after they had washed away the blood, and in Mugman's case ink

The second kiss was out of necessity. They were trapped and Bendy had said trust me before kissing Mugman. The police assumed they were just two lovers and not who they were looking for and went on their way. They still did not talk about it, but if Mugman's hands lingered a little longer than was for him to know only.

The third kiss was a goodbye. It was quick, but hard, a desperate franticness to it before Mugman left with Boris and Bendy with Cuphead. They didn't have the chance to talk about it afterwards but the relief they felt when they saw each other on other sides of the fight, alive, was the best they were going to get.

The fourth was out of relief. After everything. After Mugman's arm was shattered and everyone thought Bendy had died. The demon had flung himself at Mugman making him fall as he kissed him. It left everyone in shock before Cuphead cackled a laugh as he told Boris and Shelly to pay up. Of course that's when the adrenaline crashed and they had to be fixed up. They didn't have a chance to talk about it before they practically passed out.

If starts off with Mugman and Bendy arm wrestling. Mugman keeps winning then Bendy starts doing things to distract him. First it was trying to make fun of him which didn't work at all. In fact everything ended faster. Next he tried being funny, and he was actually startled the first time Mugman actually laughed at something he said. He continued with that route for a while even if he still didn't win because he really liked hearing Mugman laugh, and at his jokes!

Then one day Bendy slips up and calls Mugman pretty and it leaves him so flustered that Bendy wins. THAT gives Bendy ammo. He just starts constantly flirting and complimenting him, making the poor toon so flustered that he looses more than he wins. When that slowly stops working Bendy starts getting creative. Running his tail along his neck or inner leg, leaving his own shirt unbuttoned. Making sure to bite his lips or flick his tongue at just the right moment. Once he even moaned a little when Mugman was getting a little rough. It worked each and every time.

Bendy was so used to winning and getting to flirt with Mugman that he was not expecting a little bet. He was sure he would win the $20 but right as it was called Mugman unzips his jacket to show no under shirt and Bendy's bran just ... Shuts off. He is so distracted he doesn't realize he's drooling or that Mugman pocketed the money. He DOES realize when Mugman walks away and he is quick to follow. He had been wanting to get his hands on Mugman for a while now and he was going to take his chances

It was something interesting that Mugman noticed one day before Astro came to get Blossom. She had been drowsy and had rubbed her head against him. At first he had assumed it was her being too tired to clink, something she had picked up pretty quickly after he had started it (Cuphead had admitted to being too nervous to do it with her so had been avoiding it. Something about not wanting to cross lines. Mugman had no idea what he was talking about honestly.) He also had the delightful experience of watching her try to do it to her father and accidentally full force head butting Dandy instead. Cosmo swears it’s the only time he had ever seen Teagan snort a laugh. Blossom then proceeded to tell everyone present that he had been the one to start it. That led to reassurances that No he did not clink with her that hard and he was honestly trying to get her to stop. He simply explained it as a sign of affection. Teagan gave him a knowing look but didn’t tattle on him. Mugman is almost certain she is the one who told Finn because when he came running and slammed his head into his hard enough Mugman was almost knocked out from it.

Still Mugman didn’t think much of the action until she did it again when she was more awake. She clinked with him then rubbed her face against his before running off to find Cuphead who had promised to help her sneak a particularly gross looking bug back to her room without Tisha finding out. It left him curious. Now he could ask Dandy if he wasn’t busy or even Astro or Sprout, both of whom he was on reluctant good terms with… okay. It was complicated whatever either sort of friendship was and if he thought about it too long he got upset. Still he had options, but he chose to speak with her other parent. Bendy was in the guest kitchen when Mugman found him. He was staring at a pot, ink dripping down from the side of his face as he disassociated.

“What was the point of giving you my Drip if you weren’t going to use it?” Mugman asked blandly as he pushed Bendy away from the counter. He started grabbing some spices before heading to the fridge. Out came some veggies and chicken broth. After a glance at the confused demon Mugman grumbled and pulled out a couple eggs.

“Thought you wanted me dead?” Bendy asked as he reluctantly took out the vile. He eyed the area to make sure he didn’t see any cameras before taking a drop. He was already on Dandy’s shit list. Him finding out he was using illegal drugs might actually be the final nail in the coffin.

“You are getting us confused. I don’t like you and yeah, I regret not killing you, but that has nothing to do with you. When it comes to my brother and someone else it’s always going to be him. Don’t matter who the other person is.”

“Including Blossom?”

“…Don’t bring her into this.” Mugman scowled at Bendy as he poured the broth into the pot before setting it on the stove.

“Fine.” The two sat in silence as Mugman prepped the vegetables and the pot began to simmer. Mugman quickly added the eggs while mixing it so that for the most part it stayed lighter. Once the veggies were added and spices mixed in Bendy spoke.

“Why are you here? Normally you’re with Sprout right now?”

“How… do you know that?” Bendy laughed at the suspicion laced in Mugman's voice.

“Mugs, that boy is clingy. When you’re late to something he comes looking.” Bendy had almost a fond smile on his face. Like that reminded him of something else. Mugman raised a brow in confusion.

“No he isn’t?” He couldn't help but turn it into a question. Bendy gave him a skeptical look.

“Do… do you really not see how often he’s started hovering around you?”

“I mean, he can be a bit smothering at times, but we spend time apart.”

“The only person he’s around more than you is Cosmo.”

“Now you’re exaggerating, but speaking of, Sprout is with Cosmo and Ginger. ‘Sides I’m not here to talk about Sprout.” Mugman informed with an almost dismissive wave if the spoon. It was Bendy's turn to look confused.

“So you wanted to talk?”

“About a habit I noticed Blossom does. Figure you’d have an answer since it seems more like a… well you thing rather than Dandy.”

“ooookayyy?”

“She rubs her head against me and Cups. At first I thought she saw trying to clink but was too tired. But then she clinked and then rubbed her head against mine. Why is that?” Mugman noticed Bendy flushing as he glanced away.

“It’s… well it’s an affectation thing."

"Really?"

"It's... Demons tend to have some animal-like traits, or features. Mine tend to be more....cat like," Bendy admitted with a blush. Mugman hummed in thought.

"That's actually really cute. Have you done that with Boris?" He couldn't help but ask. The blush on Bendy's face told him the answer. Bendy huffed when Mugman let out a small chuckle.

"Zip it."

"Any other traits she might do that she got from you?"

"......I'm not sure if you heard it yet, but she most likely purrs, and she might still be at the age that if you grab her near the neck she will fall limp, like scruffing a kitten. It won't work much longer, I wanna say by the time she turns 13 or so. In the next year we'll know if she got my claws or not. No matter how much you file them they always stay sharp. I had to put corks on mine when I went out in public till I got used to them. They are the biggest nightmare." Bendy complained, "I ripped so many of my gloves and shirts during that time. I thought Boris was going to kill me."

"...Does Dandy know about this?" Mugman asked. Bendy actually paused to think.

"I have no idea. I should... Probably warn him, shouldn't I? For Blossom's sake." Bendy actually looked pained at the idea.

"...I could mention it to him?" Bendy thought as Mugman scooped out some of the finished soup into two bowls.

"Ugh, I want to say yes, but I should probably go over everything with him. Just in case. He knew the basics but demons are so varied when it comes to specifics, like, yes Demons don't talk till they reach a certain age, but their animal features manifest differently. There are deer trait ones that actually shed the fuzz on their horns."

"Gross."

"It's definitely creepy, but anyway I don't want Blossom to go through what I did. I don't want her learning through trial and error with no one knowing what to expect or what may or may not help or for them to accidentally think what works for one set of demons works for everyone. I was sick for weeks when I tried something meant for more fox-like demons because 'foxes are close to cats, right?'. It was a nightmare." Bendy gave a nod in thanks for the soup as he continued to chat. Mugman just sat quietly, listening to all the information Bendy was spilling. It was kind of fascinating. Technically they hated each other, they couldn't trust each other as far as they could throw, yet here was Bendy sharing all this information about what he had to deal with. Mugman couldn't help but wonder if he ever had anyone else to share this with. If Dandy didn't know, then why was Bendy telling him? Bendy was in the middle of explaining a particularly bad year of shedding where he found out he was allergic to himself, which... That was... Probably more due to his sickness than anything, that Mugman spoke up.

"You aren't going to die."

"...what?" Bendy paused, like he was struck over the head.

"You aren't going to die."

"Ha...haha, yeah. I know that."

"Do you? Because you don't like me, but you are sharing things with me you admitted to not sharing with your ex. You are sharing it like you need someone to remember because you don't want to be forgotten."

"Wow, okay-"

"Bendy, we have a deal. We are getting you to that machine alive, and once we get there we can heal you. You aren't going to die anytime soon." Bendy faltered under the intense stare then glanced at his food.

"...I want to live," Bendy stated quietly, "I want to get to know my daughter. I want to have time with her without wondering if I'm going to leave her again. I want to watch her grow up. I want to know Boris has people to look after him, that he isn't going to just be a shut in once everything is said and done. Even if I die I want Boris to have friends-hell- I want him to talk to people. You and Cuphead are the most consistent people he's spoken to. Can you believe that? I want to find Alice and apologize to her. I want... I want to dance again. I want to be able to dance and not have people telling me I should stop. That I'm too weak or-or that I should spend what time I have left with family. I want.... What I want doesn't matter. The reality is that I have been on borrowed time for a long time, and the clocks running... Boris...Boris doesn't know. No one knows, but I have visited doctors over this. I have been to so many doctors, but... They told me I would last the year. That was two years ago. Every time since I'm given these looks like I'm a medical oddity, a 'I have never seen someone in this stage before live as long as you have.' Mugman, I could drop dead any minute, no amount of Dip can stop that."

"Well, then we better get our butts in gear." Mugman stated firmly, "Cuphead and I have our mission. It's about time we take it seriously."

"What?"

"After we eat I will get Cuphead and we will regroup. We have rested and we have healed. There is no real reason that we are still here. Everyone in Gardenview will still be here, but the longer we drag it out the higher the risk of you dying before we complete our end of the deal. Now eat. When you're done you WILL rest because you just had an attack. I will deal with everything else."

"Thank you." Bendy mumbled before he started eating. It wasn't half bad. Better than whatever he would have ended up making.

"...I swear that if you die I will make sure Boris doesn't self isolate. If that means tricking him into living at Gardenview or setting Blossom on him. He won't be alone."

"Don't know if Dandy would be okay with that."

"Bendy, if you die I will tell Blossom Boris is her uncle. Dandy won't have a choice."

"You would really do that? Dandy would hate you."

"Isolation is one of the worst things after someone you love dies. Bendy, I swear that if anything happens to you I will make sure Boris isn't alone, even if I hate him." He held out his hand to drive his promise home. Bendy hesitated before grabbing it.

"Okay."

"Good. It's a deal." Mugman almost wanted to laugh at the look in Bendy's eyes. Bendy may have been a demon, but he never really did deals. He didn't know what did or didn't trigger a contract. Unluckily Mugman did.

"Thank you."

"Don't mention it." The two continued to eat in silence. Mugman was mentally making lists of the things they would need and Bendy for the first time in a long time felt something similar to relaxed. He had told someone one of his biggest secrets and Mugman took his fear for his brother seriously. Boris never did, taking the whole thing as him giving up, but he hadn't. He wanted everything he told Mugman about, but he couldn't live in denial like Boris. He was too sick for that. It felt like things weren't as horrible as they had been. He still had the Blossom situation to deal with, but the girl was strong and had good support. Maybe he should talk to Cuphead to see if he had any insights on how he might be able to convince Dandy to let him meet her. Even just once. Hell! Dandy didn't even have to say he was her dad! He just.... Even with Mugman's conviction and the map, and Boris' determination and Cuphead's deal.... Bendy wasn't convinced he wouldn't die at some point in this trip. He didn't have luck on his side. He just wanted to meet her once just in case. He wanted to get to know the little girl Dandy raised.

It starts with Cuphead and Boris. They are so sickeningly in love that it is actually cringy, but it's their version of it. It's Cuphead bothering Boris past the point everyone else would have punched him for it. It's Boris laying on Cuphead for a nap, it's Cuphead always having a hand on Boris when they are close enough, it's Boris not being forced to talk because Cuphead gladly talks for both of them and it's them caring for each other's injuries. Mugman is honestly jealous and so happy at the same time because he is always a sucker for romance, and sure, Cuphead's version is basically 'Hey look! I found this cool rock and it made me think of you.' and absolutely butchered flirting, but it's romantic in an awkward penguin sense. Bendy is waiting for SOMEONE to just ask the other to marry at this point, but before ANY of that can happen, a stork comes by. Inside is the the tiniest baby toon that is undeniably Boris and Cuphead's.

Of course everyone kinda freaks out. Cuphead has exactly 1 experience with a baby and that so happens to be Mugman's only experience as well and that did NOT go well. Boris was a hermit at best, a recluse at worst, plus people saw Wolf and assumed the worst about him. Bendy turns out to have the most experience, he actually helped out a lot in the orphanage nursery because the nun who ran it was nice and babies weren't afraid of him. They now have to deal with the fact that Boris and Cuphead like each other enough it resulted in an actual child. Now only Mugman knows how this happened because he's the only one who went to an actual school. The orphanage Boris and Bendy being one of those sort of churches where it's Gods Will and a child only comes after marriage type and Cuphead didn't go so he has to awkwardly explain to everyone.

"Yeah, so... A baby doesn't just come from, ya know... That. It can also happen if you people love each other deeply enough. It creates a manifestation of that love, so... Congrats??"

"It's a girl." Bendy informs as he hands Boris the baby. Before they can freak out there is a second stork, "Oh, I guess you have twin-"

Bendy just stares at the baby in his arms and BLUSHES. He cannot say anything, but makes a weird squeaky noise that causes Boris' girl to start giggling. Boris would glance at Cuphead and Mugman and maybe Cuphead goes over and peers at the tiny face that looks nothing like Boris and him but everything like Bendy and Mugman.

".... So anything you two want to tell us-?"

"Shut up!"

Mugman is absolutely mortified and blushing so deeply he is bubbling because he and Bendy aren't anything to each other except acquaintances except apparently not?? He knew he liked Bendy, he just didn't know Bendy liked him and they liked each other enough to have a baby.

"Sooo... I think we should head back to Gardenview." Cuphead would speak up in the silence, " 'cuz, uh, I don't know where else to take them and there are still searchers out...?"

So very awkwardly and very pointedly NOT talking about the babies they start to make their way back. Of course Cuphead is practically hovering around Boris with wide eyed wonder at the tiny adorable baby with Boris just as enamored. This little girl is THEIR baby! It was basically love at first sight when they saw her tiny little nose and sharp teethed yawn. Mugman is NOT looking at Bendy or their the baby he's holding but he is hovering in a very protective way that makes Bendy feel things he will not examine right now. The baby, because Bendy hadn't checked yet, and what did that say about him that he doesn't even know what his baby is??, was sleeping. The baby hadnt woken up, unlike the other one.

"Luca." That would get everyone's attention.

"What?"

"For our daughter."

"Cuphead, are you really wanting to name your baby Wolf? Are you really going to name her Wolf the Wolf?"

"Why do you think he would take my name?"

"It's Cuphead. He would LOVE to go around telling everyone he's Cuphead The Wolf."

"...Yeah... He would... Also please don't name our daughter anything wolf."

"Do you have any suggestions then? She needs a name."

"...Sienna?"

"God you two are so cute it's actually disgusting."

"Huh?"

"Sienna is a shade of red."

"Red the Wolf is a lot better than Wolf the Wolf at least."

Cuphead is just so in love with Boris because he wants to name her HIS color and it makes him all kinds of mushy, but of course he then asks Bendy and Mugman what they are naming THEIR kid and they're both like, we don't even know the gender?

"So? You can still name them."

"But what if-"

"Mugs, remember what OUR names are?"

Of course Boris and Bendy assume they mean the whole Cuphead and Mugman names not knowing that those are nicknames/chosen names and not their birth names.

"...Can we just go with Borage for now?"

"Borage Kettle?"

"Aww-" Someone would stop Cuphead from cooking about how Bendy just immediately went with Mugman's last name,mostly to stop a fight.

"I'm fine with that. We can decide later if we want to change it."

Of course then they get to Gardenview and everyone is freaking out how they came back with TWO babies. Dandy gets some kinda way about Bendy having a baby with Mugman. He liked Bendy a lot too, and he was pretty sure Bendy liked him, but they never had a child. Shelly is ECSTATIC to see these little tiny babies. Sprout probably takes them straight to be checked over because they had been TRAVELING for DAYS with newborns. At this point Bendy and Mugman know they have a little girl as well. When Sprout gives them the okay they do formal introductions.

"Meet Sienna the Wolf!" Cuphead would be holding her like in the Lion King as Boris hovers nervously.

"...Borage Kettle."

"...Borages are flowers, correct?"

"Yes. They are star shaped and very pretty."

Just them now having to deal with new born babies and trying to find the parts while Boris and Cuphead still haven't gotten married because Boris is so NERVOUS about it and Cuphead is happy as is, and it just never occurs to him to even consider making it a legal thing, let alone to propose himself. Sure he's thought about it but also, if they get married that puts Boris in, like, a Mafia wife situation and wouldn't it be easier if they weren't? That way if anything happens Boris can just say it was a fling or something? Wouldn't it be safer for him and their daughter??

Oh... It would be cute if Mugman had their parents wedding rings, one of the few things EK had of theirs and Mugman was the one who thought to grab them before they left home with the idea they would never go back. So he goes to Boris and hands him their father's ring and that is basically his way of saying he accepts Boris, even though he already did ages ago. Boris admitting to his own fears because in a weird way Boris and Mugs are close friends and he didn't know who else he could talk to? This whole thing is a very weird situation???? Mugman would admit that if he just asked one day like 'Hey Cuphead, want to get married?' Cuphead would probably agree..He doesn't have to do anything fancy.

Boris just blurting out the question one day because there is Cuphead, shirt a mess from feeding Sienna and half asleep with a tiny food handprint on his face. Cuphead doesn't even register the question at first, either not responding or giving a tired okay, but when he does realize he is so flustered??? And confused??? But of course??? We are basically married already????

Boris then talks to Mugman about when he and Bendy are finally going to start dating because Boris isn't blind and Cuphead has of course told him all the ways Bendy has talked to CUPHEAD about trying to flirt with Mugman. Because again, Cuphead is the closest thing Bendy has to a friend.

Mugman gets super flustered and just uses their daughter as an excuse so Boris just picks up Borage and is like 'You two literally have a daughter because you idiots love each other. Now go ask my brother out or I am keeping your daughter till you do. He is insufferable right now.'

Cuphead and Shelly (leaving Boris to take the girls to their check-up) definitely not spying as they watch Mugman panic while trying to ask Bendy out only for it to get really messed up with some very awkward flirting, but Bendy just laughing and finding it charming.

Like he is full on leaning against either Goob or Boris because they are Very Soft and Mugman hasn’t had soft and warm and squishy in a long time.

“We thought we killed a worm and so we gave it a funeral but Elder Kettle thought we were talking about him so he fully trapped the house with things he learned from the first time he was in war, but he tripped and lset them all off himself.”

“I miss being able to dress up.” Mugman sighed deeply, sinking deeper into the soft thing he was laying on.

“You? In a suit?”

“Well, yeah, but I miss my dresses. I had an absolutely stunning number. I just haven’t had a reason to go out as Tallulah.”

“… why is that name familiar?” Shelly whispered to Poppy who was sitting closest.

“Dunno. Maybe Glisten or Tegan would know it. We should ask later.” She suggested. Shelly nodded.

“Ya know I used to have the biggest crush on Dandy and Bendy?” Mugman said out of the blue as he pressed closer into the fluff.

“WHAT?” Multiple people screamed. Mugman nodded sleepily with a goofy smile on his face.

“Yeah, I had a poster that I kissed.” That caused another outburst of shouting with Cuphead being the loudest.

“I FUCKING KNEW IT! YOU FUCKING ASS LIAR! I KNEW I WALKED IN ON YOU KISSING THAT STUPID THING!”

“FUCK YOU CUPHEAD! YOU DIDNT SEE SHIT!”

“You JUST said-“

“Yeah! I did kiss the poster! A lot! But you didn’t walk in on me doing it! You have burst in on me changing! Multiple times! I was NOT going to risk you bursting in on that!”

“Then what WHERE you doing?”

“Talking to it because I was stressed! Like how you talked to your doll when you thought I was sleeping!”

“Fuck you! That was an action figure.” Cuphead bit back.

“Wait! Wait! Let’s go back to you having crushes in Dandy and Bendy!” Vee veered the conversation back to the topic most people wanted to hear about. Dandy was off to the side flushed and even Bendy was flustered by the admission.

“HAD! I don’t any more.”

“So you aren’t attracted to them at all?”

“I never said that. Honestly I’d drop to my knees in a second if either asked me, but I don’t have a crush on them.”

“Drop to your knees?”

“I’d let them use me like a to-“

“OKAY! I am OUT OF HERE!” Cuphead announced as he stumbled to his feet, “I do NOT need to hear any more details about what my brother wants done by those two. Sprout! You are in charge! Make sure he gets to bed later. I’m out”

“Why Sprout?” Shelly protested.

“Sprout mother’s Mugs almost as bad as Teagan. He’ll make sure he doesn’t sleep with anyone drunk.”

“I do not!” Sprout protested as he actively tried to get Mugman to sit up and drink some water. It sort of worked.

“Sure. Anyway. Night guys.” Cuphead waved.

“I will check in on you later,” Astro offered. Cuphead gave a tired smile.

“Thanks Moonbeam.” With that he was off.

“I kinda agree.” Shelly sighed as she got up, “Mugs is like a little brother and Dandy is my boss/friend so this is weird. Night everyone.” Several other toons followed after.

“Sooooo… you want Bendy and Dandy to use you like a toy?” Vee asked with an almost evil grin.

“I want them to fuck me so hard I can’t remember how to talk and I wouldn’t be able to walk for days.” Mugman sighed dreamily.

“Is that so Blue?” Bendy asked, leaning forward.

“I love when you call me those stupid nicknames.”

“Is that right Doll?”

“Yeah.”

“Bendy,” Dandy had a warning tone to his voice. His face bright red.

“I would do anything you said if you talked like that to me.” Mugman stated as he looked at Dandy. Dandy froze for a moment as he stared at the intoxicated mug.

“… We will revisit this conversation later.” Dandy settled on.

“Oh~?” Came the teasing tone.

"Vee, we are not going to take advantage of a clearly drunk man."

"But I want you to take advantage of me." Mugman practically whined. Dandy looked like a man offered a feast he couldn't eat and Bendy's tail was wagging.

"You're killing us Blue," Bendy voice was a practically a growl, "But Petals right."

"Hey, Astro? I think it's time for Mygs to get some sleep?" Sprout asked with a strained smile. Astro, who had been watching with amusement, gave a slow nod. Mugman didn't last too much longer with Astro's encouragement.

"So...?" Vee needled.

"So, I'm going to get Mugman situated because I know his alcohol tolerance is insane which means he has had way too much and probably won't be functional for about a day, day and a half. During that time, you," Sprout aggressively gestured towards Bendy and Dandy, "Are going to figure out what you're going to do and it better NOT be something stupid like-like a one night stand or-or fuck buddies or something like that."

"A bit protective are we?" Bendy asked as Dandy also eyes the strawberry.

"Mugman is my friend. Of course I'm protective." Sprout hissed as he picked the sleeping man up. Astro offered help but Sprout shook his head.

"Don't fuck this up. Just because I will heal you doesn't mean I have to be nice about it." With that Sprout left. There was a moment of silence before Astro shrugged.

"I suppose with that out of the way-"

"Are you saying you were going to threaten us too?" Dandy seemed offended more than hurt by his friend's words. Astro blinked slowly.

"You are one of my dearest friends, but Mugman is Cuphead's brother." As if that explained everything. Granted with how much he hovered about Cuphead, maybe it did.

"We will discuss this like adults," Bendy swore, an unnatural seriousness about him, "If he doesn't go running when he realizes what happened."

Astro stared him down for a moment.

"I will talk to Cuphead about ways to keep him from disappearing when it's time for the conversation."

"Thank you." Dandy said gratefully.

"ANYWAY! I am going to find Teagan and maybe Gigi."

"Vee-"

"Don't worry, I won't sully anyone's ears with what Mugman admitted, but I am going to tease Gigi over having some hot gossip she doesn't know about yet. Have fun with your talk~" They waited until Vee left then looked at each other.

"So... You want him right?"

"More than anything."

"Great! We can figure out how to seduce him tomorrow."

"Bendy-"

"No, seducing first then wooing. He said he wanted to sleep with us, not date us. If we hit him with dating first it might spook him."

"It always surprises me when you actually think."

"Rude."

"Sleep well Bendy, I will see you tomorrow."

"With all the stuff Mugs was spouting? I'm sure I will. Night Dandy."

Mugman was sitting in the kitchen, listening to Sprout and Cosmo as they talked about... Something. Okay fine, listening was a strong word, but right now he just needed to hear people talking and the kitchen was actually the best place for it. It had absolutely nothing to do with the fact that the strawberry saw him acting weird and physically dragged him here. Nope. Not at all.

"Ginger should be joining us soon too," Cosmo added as he stirred whatever was in his bowl, "She just had a few things to take care of in the medbay."

"...She bakes too?" Mugman asked, speaking up for the first time since he was dragged in there. The two men looked over. Sprout had some white frosting on his face, covering some of his freckles, and Cosmo had recently smeared flour across his face. It was kind of adorable, not that he would ever admit that.

"Ginger? Yeah, she usually joins us when she can. Why?" Mugman just shrugged in response. It was kind of funny that the three healers also liked baking. Neither Sprout nor Cosmo pushed which, was honestly sort of a relief. The duo let him slip back into silence, as they chatted away. Cosmo's cousin did slip into the kitchen not long after, though she had paused when she saw him. After a second glance at him she scurried over to the other two, whispering frantically at them. Mugman didn't mind. It was a more mild reaction than he usually got. As he began to get lost in his thoughts something clinked in front of him. Slowly blinking at the plate with a cupcake and some cookies he raised his eyes. Sprout was smiling at him.

"Try them." It wasn't an offer, "It's a new recipe and since you haven't left yet, may as well put you to work!" Mugman couldn't stop the snort of laughter that escaped him as he picked up a cookie.

"I don't think taste tester is really work."

"You say that now, but you'll be eating those words soon enough."

"Oh Celestials that was terrible." Mugman huffed, lips twitching just a little bit. He didn't want to encourage the other. Apparently Sprout had seen the little tell because he followed it with,

"Donut kill my vibe. The yeast you could do is laugh." He said it with such a straight face that Mugman did laugh.

"Those are actually the worst."

"But I got you to laugh!" Sprout announced proudly, hands on his hips as he beamed, "Now onto serious matters. Each of these are different items. I want you to taste each one and tell us what flavors you can taste and what you like or don't like... Wait. You don't have any allergies do you? Shoot, I can't believe we forgot to ask that first!"

"I'm not allergic to anything." Mugman interrupted what he could tell would turn into a Spiral, "And honestly, it takes a lot to get me sick."

"...Do... Do we want to know?" Cosmo asked, eyes squinted in concern. Mugman thought long and hard. He thought first about the things he and Cuphead did as kids before thinking of The Punishments.

"...No."

"I did NOT like how long that took you to answer." Sprout announced with a frown.

"My brother is Cuphead."

"I ... I really don't like whatever you are implying." Mugman could only shrug. For anyone who knew his brother, or them, that would have been answer enough but... But there really wasn't anyone who knew them was there? The contracts had been collected, the Devil and the casino were still on the isles which meant Dice was still on the isles. Chalice was who knows where. After her latest betrayal they hadn't kept in contact and they hadn't been so desperate as to use their Hail Mary. Elder Kettle was-

"Mugman?" He came back to the present to Sprout's face way too close and looking way too concerned, "Are you okay? You didn't look too good there."

"...fine."

"Mm... I don't believe you," He stated bluntly, "But I won't push so long as you start eating." He stood there, waiting, until Mugman took a bite of the cookie he still had in his hand. Green eyes watched with a narrowed look before he gave a satisfied nod and went back to his friends.

"You know, you're sounding a lot like Teagan when you do that." Mugman shot before taking another bite. It had a bit of a weird texture, but the flavor wasn't half bad.

"Are YOU comparing me to YOUR MOTHER?" Sprout gasped, the look of affront on his face making Mugman smirk.

"She isn't my mother-"

"Wait actually-?" Cosmo asked in surprise.

"You're telling me you think Teagan would ditch her kids if she had any?"

"... Okay, fair."

"So... Do you have any relationship with her? It's just she does seem very maternal towards you?" Ginger asked softly, adding a cup of sugar to whatever she was baking.

"Not as far as we know, but also, it's not uncommon in Dishculture what she's doing?"

"What do you mean?" Sprout asked, pausing in grabbing something from a shelf to give Mugman his full attention. Mugman paused as he thought. Dishculture was mostly word of mouth except for what other toons needed to know. Cuphead once compared it to being like a cult, which yes, but also no. Usually it was only close friends or family that were told. Still... Mugman didn't have that. He didn't have anyone outside of his brother. There were specific things that were tied to their small family that will die with them..he had no doubt they would die before either even could consider settling down for kids. It would be nice if someone else knew. It would be nice just to talk to someone besides his brother.

"Well... You probably have seen porcelain types ain't the most common. Kids aren't common. So when they're born everyone helps raise them. They're kinda like communal property?" He missed the vaguely horrified looks at that description as he continued, "Especially when they're orphans. Honestly we have no idea if Elder Kettle was even related to us or even knew our parents. It's just as likely that he just found us one day and decided to raise us."

"...I have a lot of questions and I don't know if I can ask them." Cosmo admitted.

"You can ask, but I might not answer?"

"So potentially your guardian could have just... Found you on the ground and decided to raise you? Did he ever try to find your parents? Did the law ever get involved?"

"Oh, he took us once to their graves, and if they had any other family they would have been living near them since, like I said, kids ain't common. Nah, I don't think law gets involved with this. I think it falls under religion or cultural stuff. Even Kettle wasn't too sure and he was ancient for a dishfolk." Mugman took a moment to take another bit of the cookie, "This texture is really weird, but the flavor ain't half bad."

"So...Teagan just saw two adults and decided she was going to raise you?" Cosmo asked while Sprout jotted down a note.

"She saw two cups younger than her without family except for each other."

"But that still doesn't explain her mothering. Unless you're younger than you say you are." Ginger pointed out, sprinkling something that smelled similar to nutmeg. Mugman felt himself start to heat up in embarrassment.

"....Did.... Did you lie about your age?"

"No."

"Wait," Sprout began, glancing at Cosmo for confirmation, "Didn't Teagan say that dishfolk age weird-"

"So this cookie has a really good texture, but there's a really weird after taste-"

"Oh no you dont-"

"I remember! She said that dishfolk age slower! Depending on what they're made of the longer they can live. She said she's considered young even though she's already well... She’s considered on the younger side, like in her 20s is what she compared it to.” Cosmo interrupted. All three medics paused and looked towards Mugman who was nervously taking a bite of his cupcake.

“Ginger?” Sprout asked with a strained voice. He didn’t need to voice the rest of the question before Ginger was taking off. Mugman felt twelve again. Like he did when he accidentally told Dice that he and his brother didn’t get more than a little sick if bleach was poured into their cups. It had been a response to his panic after one of the Boss’ punishments.

“It’s… really not that big a deal. I’m still a legal adult. Sure Cups and I are on the younger side-“

“Are you older or younger than Finn.” Sprout asked with a stillness that made Mugman shift a little.

“…Younger.”

“Oh my- You are a baby!” Cosmo gasped.

“Am not! Just because I’m younger doesn’t mean I’m a baby!”

"You are a fucking toddler. Oh my gods? Who let these children near guns?" Sprout looked comically horrified, and honestly Mugman couldn't figure out if he was actually freaking out or joking."

"I am a legal adult."

"Sounds like something a kid would say." Cosmo muttered.

"In toon society or dish?" Sprout shot back. Mugman pursed his lips and refused to look at them.

"So.... Does that make Teagan your actual mom now? Since adopting kids is like.... Just picking them off the streets?" Cosmo asked, not noticing he stuck his hand in some frosting.

"She'd be more like a younger Aunt or even a cousin. She wouldn't be our mom, but she'd be family."

"Would be?"

"Well, basically she hasn't staked a claim." Mugman tried to explain.

"I am so confused." Cosmo admitted. Mugman paused as he took a bite of the cupcake. He told them it was too tart for his taste.

"I don't really know what it entails but the one planning on bringing younger dishes into the family needs to... Hmm... It's like a demon deal. I guess. You make a magically binding contract to care for the children you take in as if they are family. Now if Elder Kettle were still around she could still lay a claim, but if he felt she was a danger she could be cut off? It's weird and confusing when you don't live in a community."

"Explain."

"Well, it was just me, Cups and Elder Kettle. Normally it's a small town worth of dish folk. Makes it easier you know?"

"Okay."

"What about Finn?"

"Cousin. He is way too young to be an Uncle."

"Wait, hang on, but like, what if you actually had a biological Uncle that was closer in age to you? Like if Finn has been related to one of your parents?"

"It's not at all common for dish folk... Well....cup and bowl types at least, to have more than one kid. If he had been related we might still call him Uncle, but we probably would just call him our cousin. Uncle and Aunt are more like terms to use for caretakers/family that aren't your parents but aren't old enough to be Elders."

"Could anyone declare themselves as your family?"

"I mean, probably. That would be more of a question for Teagan or Finn I think. They might know more about it." Mugman saw Sprout nod with a thoughtful look in his eyes. To be fair it was a lot of information to think about. It wasn't longer until Ginger came back with Teagan and Finn. Mugman was then subjected to more fussing because, unlike the others, he and Cuphead had tried to keep their ages secret from the two most likely to call them out.

*

Mugman and Cuphead were watching Looey preform an act with the help of Goob and Razzle and Dazzle when a feeling like an egg cracking on their heads hit them. The feeling oozed down to their feet before disappearing. It happened three more times.

"Mugman?" Goob asked with worry when he noticed his new friend getting distracted.

"Sorry, just ..."

"A weird feeling." Cuphead finished.

"A weird feeling?" Razzle spoke up, "Like a good one? Or a bad one?"

"Just... Weird. It's not something we've felt before." Mugman thought as his brother took care of talking to the others. It was a strange feeling, but not an unfamiliar one.

"Cuphead," Mugman spoke up, "Doesn't it... Remind you of... Something? Did Elder Kettle ever talk about something that feels like that?" Mugman watched as Cuphead thought hard for a moment before his eyes widened.

"Uh, so... Hmm."

"Cuphead?" Razzle questioned.

"We... We might have... New... Family?" He informed awkwardly.

"Werent, and sorry of this is rude, but aren't you orphans?" Looey asked slowly.

"Haha, yeah, but dish culture is Weird." Mugman blinked at his brother slowly.

"Are you saying what I think you are?"

"Looks like Finn or Teagan finally made good on their threats."

"What do you mean threats?"

"They kept saying they were gonna do it one day."

"And you never thought to tell me?"

"Nah."

"What are you talking about?" Goob asked. Mugman and Cuphead shared a long look.

"One of them... Might have... Sorta.... Adopted us into their family." Both were suddenly in a tight hug.

"Oh! That's wonderful! Congratulations,!"

"By who?"

"That's what were trying to figure out."

"Someone you don't know can just adopt you? Isn't that... Is that legal? Are you going to be okay?" Dazzle asked, a slight fear in his eyes. Which... Was fair..for anyone else it would be very concerning.

"We have our suspensions who it was."

"Hi guys!" Came a voice, "Gar you are. I was looking for you." Finn walked in with the biggest smile.

"....Finn.... Finn what did you do?" Mugman asked with a pain filled glance. Goob slowly let them both down so they could stare at him. Finn paused before looking him directly in the eye.

"I krilly think you know "

"...Teagan?" Cuphead asked.

"Right here dear." She greeted as she walked in, "We thought Finn coming in first would be.... Less shocking."

"What's going on?" Looey asked as he glanced between the four of them.

"We? Both of you-?"

"We adopted them." Teagan stated as she walked closer.

"You and Finn did WHAT?" Screamed Connie as she flew in, Gigi following.

"The boys are now family."

"So you ARE their mom?...IS FINN THEIR DAD NOW?" Gigi asked gleefully.

"Oh! I'm so happy for you all!" Razzle cheered.

"No one asked them-?" Dazzle tried.

"What? No. Teagan isn't old enough to be our mom. She's our Aunt." Cuphead stated, "Finn is our cousin." Mugman saw the beaming smile on Finn's face and the softer one on Teagan's.

"Also, dish culture you don't really have to ask? It's weird."

"Hang on, before we get too far into things. Who else claimed us?" Mugman asked, "It felt too weird to just be the two of you."

"It worked?" Finn asked, practically vibrating.

"Oh! That's wonderful!"

"IT WORKED!?" Finn shouted while fist pumping, "Yes!"

"What are you talking about?"

"Well, someone brought up a question and we decided to give it a little... Testing." Teagan informed as Shelly and Sprout walked in.

"... Shelly's our SISTER NOW?" Cuphead lit up as he ran forward, scooping the woman into a tight hug. On the other hand Mugman was staring at Sprout.

"You adopted us?" Sprout gave a sheepish shrug.

"You actually adopted us. You... You know this means we are actually your problem now right?"

"Teagan was able to explain more things in detail, and yeah. That's kinda what I was hoping for."

"Why?"

"Because now I can take care of you both and I have authority past being the healer!"

"

"Yeah, as their Uncle-"

"-Older brother-" Cuphead interrupted.

"Older brother- wait, what?"

"You're our older brother. Shelly is our older sister." Cuphead stated. Sprout turned to Finn who was shaking so fast right now and Teagan who had a shocked look on her face.

"This is WONDERFUL! We need to have a shell-abration!"

"Wait-it I thought the only options were cousin or Uncle?"

"It depends on how close you are with the person you're adopting. For example, Shelly would have only been a cousin if she had only adopted Mugman, but because she's closer with Cuphead, they gained a sister." Teagan explained as a slow smile crossed her features. She was looking at the starting to bubble Mugman.

"Aww! That's so cute!" Gigi cooed with a laugh.

----____---____----____----____

Tallulah hummed as she made her way through the crowded room. She had just finished her set and was taking a break before she headed home for the night. It had been nice. As she looked around she noticed a toon that looked awfully familiar to her. Dandy. One half of the up and coming Darling Dancers. If he was here then that meant... Ah, there was Darling now. Bendy Darling Drew was making his way back to his seat. She hummed to herself before letting a slow smile cross her face. Maybe a little fun was in order.

"Pardon me boys, but by chance have either of you seen my dance partner?" Tallulah asked as she got close enough. She watched as Dandy glanced over. A charming blush took over his face. Bendy had his jaw dropped just a little.

"Sorry, Ms. Piccolo. We haven't." Dandy offered, adjusting his tie slightly and oh that was interesting. Tallulah allowed herself a soft sigh and something not really a pout because that would be undignified but something close.

"I swear that man... I have been looking for him since I got off stage." Which was true. The final song had been just for her so her dear brother had hit the floor several minutes prior.

"Why not take a break?" Bendy asked, "You've been on your feet for some time now, and dancing in heels like those can't be comfortable." He wasn't wrong per say. Her feet were killing her. Still...

"Perhaps you're right. My dear brother wouldn't leave me here so I suppose I just have to wait for him to find me. Well, thank you for your time. I will take my leave."

"Or you could join us?" Tallulah raised a brow as she watched the two. Both of them sat a little taller, leaning a little closer. They really didn't want her to leave. She made a show of thinking it over.

"Normally I don't sit with just anyone," she drawled, "but I think I'll make an exception this time." Tallulah hid her smile behind her fan as Bendy stood to pull out a chair for her. She sent him a wink in thanks. His tail stuck up in shock, a blush covering his face.

"May I ask what made us an exception?" Dandy inquired.

"Well, who can really say no to a couple of shieks?" She saw Bendy trip over his own feet as he almost face planted. She almost felt bad.

"Wha-what?" Dandy squeaked, face darkening.

"You fellas are easy on the eyes, so really how could I say no?" Tallulah asked, as she carefully wrapped her fingers around Dandy's drink. She brought it to her lips, right along the rim she had seen Dandy sip from. Dandy watched as she left her lip stain mark on his glass. The poor thing would have been boiling if he was a cupfolk. Bendy looked downright jealous when she glanced over.

"Now, you know who I am, but I don't believe I caught your names?"

"Bendy, Miss Piccolo, Bendy Darling Drew, and this is Dandy Dancifer." Bendy introduced as Dandy tried to get himself under control. Tallulah made a show of thinking. With her hand she tilted Bendy's head upward.

"Hmm.." she got a little breathless as Bendy let her move him around with her fan. A gentil push and he turned his head to the side.

"Oh," she glanced at Dandy, keeping the fan against Bendy's face, "You're the Darling Dancers."

"You know us?"

"I've caught a show or two. You two are quit the pair." She stated as she moved her fan away.

"How did you find the performances?" Dandy asked. He glanced between her and Bendy.

"I will say the two of you were stunning together. I wouldn't be opposed to seeing it again."

"Maybe a private show?" Bendy offered. Oh, the sweet thing looked so eager to have her attention on him. She made a show of thinking about it, tapping her fan against her face.

"Hm, unfortunately that would be rather scandalous wouldn't it?" She mused, "A young unwed woman stealing away in the night with two lookers?"

"If I may be so bold, it would only be scandalous if we were caught..." Dandy murmured. Now that was something.

"Here I was expecting you to say there isn't anything scandalous about showing a dance. Just what kinda private show were you thinking of?" She watched the way the two darkened. Bendy tugged at his collar, avoiding looking at her and Dandy was fidgeting with his cuffs. Tilting her head just to the side she moved one of her feet forward until it touched the edge of Dandy's pants leg. Slowly she trailed it upward until it rested just inside near his knee. The flower went stalk still, breathing picking up as his knuckles turned white. Bendy seemed to notice his partner's distress, but worked in her favor. As he was focused on Dandy Tallulah put her hand on his upper thigh, fingers resting on the inseam.

"Are dance partners all you two are?" She asked while accepting the drink a waiter passed over.

"N-no." Bendy squeaked. Her grin turned a little sharper and she let her hand move a little higher.

"Oh?" She let herself sound a little breathless at the idea, granted that wasn't hard. She has had dreams of these two since she was a teenager after all. The idea that maybe some of them actually happened?

"We are partners in every sense of the word. We share everything." Pressing her heel a bit firmer Tallulah slowly licked her lip before asking.

"Everything?"

"Yes." She bit her lower lip lightly, as she dragged her gaze over both of them. She made sure to make eye contact first before she slid her gaze downward and back up. Tallulah wanted it to feel like she was dragging her hands down without ever touching them. The way Dandy shuddered and Bendy squirmed she got the feeling she did a good job.

"TALLULAH!" she frowned as she glanced over. Her brother was bolting towards her, actual fear in his eyes. He didn't give her a second before she was grabbed by the arm. When she stumbled he simply picked her up. He paid no mind to her protesting or the fact she dropped her favored fan.