Snomnomnom

Sandsteamers are quite a marvel of engineering, in Vash’s opinion. The large machines glide through even the loosest of sand with ease, rumbling as it goes like a well loved kitty. They remind him of the cruise ships that sailed the waters of Old Earth; with the large design, huge deck and many rooms to accommodate as many people as possible. 

~~~~~

☆ One: Timeout ☆

He’s never been on one of those ships of course, only having read about them through old texts back on ship three. But he imagines it’d be like a lot like a sandsteamer; being gently sloshed as the machine travels, and the ride gets rougher the lower floor you’re on. 

Him and his companions actually have decent accommodations this time. The floors are clean and shiny, bright working lights, clean water, the whole nine yards! His and Wolfwood’s bed is wonderfully large and sits in the middle of their room. Wolfwood himself is laying back on some pillows with a lit cigarette in mouth and a book in hand.

Vash wishes he could lay next to him.

“Ya got ten minutes, Spikey.” Wolfwood says without looking up from his book. Or Vash assumes as much. He can’t actually see Wolfwood from his perch on the chair facing the corner. 

Vash grumbles to himself, since that’s about all he can do. If he talks or turns around Wolfwood will only add more time to his punishment.

“Don’t gimme that. Ya did this to yerself.” Paper rustles, he must be turning a page.

Before Vash can even think about his reply (that he’d keep to himself of course!) a light knock is heard outside their door. 

“It’s open.” Wolfwood calls out. 

The door swings open and in walks someone small, steps light and back straight. They carry themselves with confidence on the daily. Vash knows it's Meryl, but he can't quite see her from his seat. He can just barely make out her white cape from the very corner of his eye.

“I wanted to let you know that Milly and I are headed up to the deck soon.” She pauses. “What’s with him?” She’s pointing at his back. 

One of the many things his senses are good for is that he doesn't need to see her to know what movements she’s making given how close she is. She stands by the foot of the bed facing Nick with one hand on her hip. 

Vash has always been grateful for Meryl. She's a little spitfire, stubborn as himself when it comes to sticking by him, and friendly. Not to mention the reason he and Wolfwood are even on the sandsteamer to begin with. Two cozy rooms had been prepaid for by the Bernardeli Insurance Company for Meryl and Milly only, as thanks for their consistent and diligent work. The two women were kind enough to share one room while he and Wolfwood got the other, in exchange for both men owing them big time.

Wolfwood turns another page. “He was gettin on my nerves so I put him in timeout.” 

Meryl snickers. And were Vash facing them he’d slump dramatically about being made fun of. But the act doesn't have the same effect if they can't see his sad watery eyes. 

“What, he misbehaved and got punished?” Meryl asks between laughs. 

“Sure did. He ain’t supposed to talk or turn around ‘til I say. We’ll meet y'all up top once he's done.”

“How much time does he have left?” Meryl asks.

Wolfwood is quiet. He must be checking the clock hanging on the wall, coincidentally on the opposite wall that Vash is facing. “‘Bout seven minutes if he behaves.”

“Knowing him I shouldn't have to ask but, what did he even do?”

Vash sighs quietly and rests his forehead on the smooth, painted wall as Wolfwood tells the story.

————

Several hours ago…

————

Vash can tell Wolfwood is extra frustrated with him this morning. He was late getting ready for the day. Not that he woke up late, but photosynthesizing after his morning exercise leaves him gummy. He’d stay perched at the window of their dingy inn all day if possible. But Wolfwood is trying to usher him out before they get hit with a late checkout fee.

They had only paid for two nights, so any hours beyond they’ll have to cough up cash whether they stay or not.

“Look Needles, it’s great yer enjoin’ yerself, but we ain’t got this kinda time or cash.” Wolfwood grabs him by his coat collar, drags him away from the windows and out the room. 

Wolfwood locks the door behind them and they head downstairs where the inn has already gained new customers. The innkeeper is busy with someone so Wolfwood slips the key onto the counter and tries to keep walking, only to get stopped a second later. 

“Scuse me, sirs!” 

Wolfwood’s brows scrunch in annoyance before relaxing. He turns around with a sweet smile. “Yes, madam?”

The innkeeper, a tall lady with broad shoulders and a friendly face, has paused her conversation to talk with them. “I'm gonna have to charge you folks for today given the time.”

Wolfwood points to the door with his thumb. “Actually miss, we were just leavin’, heh, don’t mind us.”

She frowns at them.“You seem like good people, but it's policy. We're all tryin’ to make a livin out here ain’t we?” 

“Yeah, s’pose we are,” Wolfwood pats Vash’s back rather harshly as he laughs. Eyeing him angrily from behind his sunglasses. His brown eyes flit down to Vash’s jacket and back up, insisting that he be the one to pay. 

Vash pats his coat and chuckles sheepishly, not even needing to turn his pockets inside-out to show they're empty. 

Wolfwood’s face hardens for just a moment, on it Vash can see frustration, and the itching desire to say ‘told you so.’ He sighs and he digs into his suit jacket pocket, pulling out barely enough to cover the expense. He slides the money on the counter and waves.

“You have a good one, ma'am.” He leads Vash out the door, his face falling into irritation once they're outside. “Honestly, Spikey, I dunno how you manage to get around when yer pockets are always empty!” 

“Well… good thing you're here, right?” Vash says.

Wolfwood grumbles and places Punisher on Angelina ii before sitting down. Vash sits himself in the sidecar with a sweet smile. 

“We'll be okay, Nick! We've skated by with less to our names.” 

Wolfwood looks frustrated but ultimately softens and starts up Angelina, peeling out of the town.

.

.

.

Through one of Vash's radios Meryl and Milly inform them they need to meet up before the sandsteamer takes off. Since they're headed to the same destination it'd be easier to travel together… However, traveling with Vash is anything but easy. 

Wolfwood was already annoyed by how their day started, and it only gets worse when wayward bandits come barrelling their way on the dunes. They’re hardly an hour out from the last town before nearly getting rammed off Angelina. 

Vash whips out his colt and aims for their spiked tires while Nick tries to speed past them. Vash manages to take out one of their back tires before the front of their truck rams them again, which the sidecar takes the brunt of. They're sent off course but Wolfwood’s hands are always sure and firm no matter the chaos, so he twists Angelina and veers them away while Vash fires more rounds into their tires.

They’ll have to take a detour to make it to the city to avoid those bandits now, but at least they’re alive… Even if the sidecar is proving to be a major issue. It doesn't roll smoothly anymore and there’s a smattering of holes poked through the once-sleek metal. 

“Damnit!” Wolfwood kicks up some sand, having stopped Angelina to assess the damage. They’re too far from any mechanic or parts shop and lugging a busted sidecar will only slow them down further. They have to cut their losses. 

Vash wrings his hands off to the side. Despite that skirmish not being his fault, he can't help but feel a little guilt over it still. Wolfwood grumbles and climbs onto Angelina once more, beckoning Vash closer “Ain’t got time to putz around. Get on. The sooner we get there the better.” 

Vash climbs behind Wolfwood, wrapping his arms around his midsection. “There won’t be any more issues from here on out, Nick! We’ll be alright.” He beams, aiming to lighten the mood. 

He knows that Wolfwood values Angelina quite a lot, so unless he can spawn a new sidecar right here and now, he won't make him feel better. But he can try. Ultimately, he can see his optimism bleed through Wolfwood as his face relaxes a little. He sighs, lights a cigarette, and takes off.

Vash tucks his nose into Wolfwood’s shoulder. The cigarette smoke gets blasted back towards him, but if it helps calm Nick down a little he won’t voice any complaints. 

It’ll be uphill from here!

It was absolutely downhill from there. 

With their minimal funds they can’t afford to go through the sandsteamer's ticket line and must sneak on board. Which doesn't really bode well while carrying a giant cross and motorcycle. They nearly got caught three times and Angelina has a few new scrapes from the tight spaces they crawled through. 

Vash heard Wolfwood mutter a “Why I outta,” and felt him mime a shaking motion at some point. Vash flashed him a little grin in return. When they safely deposited Angelina in storage they found a vacant spot on the deck to stand at.

Vash contacts Meryl on the radio with good and bad news. The good news is they made it aboard! The bad news is they don't have a room…

In the end, Wolfwood in his frustrated and overstimulated state made Vash hush up and stay in their borrowed room. He couldn't afford anything else going wrong today, especially on the sandsteamer. After the day they’ve had, they do not need another crowd screaming Vash’s moniker with disdain. 

Despite Wolfwood’s reasoning, Vash openly complained. They argued until Wolfwood dragged a chair over to the corner and pointed at it. 

“Sit, Needles. Gimme at least ten minutes to cool off.” 

Vash’s eyebrows furrow. “I know today didn’t go perfectly but c’moooon,” He gives his best puppy eyes. “You can’t seriously mean that?”

“Every time ya talk I'm addin’ five more minutes.”

“Wh–! I am an adult y’know! You can't put me in timeout! I'm older than you!” Vash huffs. “Besides, half of today wasn't even my fault so pbbt!” He blows a raspberry.

“Fifteen minutes.”

“Nick, you’re not putting me in timeout!”

“Twenty.”

“Why don’t we just cuddle and sleep and I'll be reeaal quiet for the whooole trip! I think that sounds way better.” Vash pleads.

“Twenty five.”

Vash groans upon seeing that he won't get out of this. Of course he wouldn’t. Wolfwood, ever unflappable and stubborn, has probably dealt with this exact routine growing up. A little tantrum wouldn’t deter him. 

Vash humphs dramatically and walks over to the chair. He drops into it heavily with another huff, letting his discontent be known, and tries to burn a hole into the wall with his glare.

Which lands them here: Wolfwood cozy and Vash in timeout like a child. Meryl openly laughs as the story is wrapped up.

“Yer almost done, Needle-Noggin. Just two more minutes.” 

Meryl laughs, sounding thoroughly entertained. “In that case I'll leave you guys to it.” She turns to leave “You’d better come up to the deck eventually, though.” She always had her own way of saying see you later. 

Wolfwood half-heartedly waves. “We will soon enough. Tell Big Girl what’s up with Spikes for me.”

As Meryl steps out the door Vash, on autopilot, waves with a cheerful ‘see you soon.’ His face immediately falls and he looks between Meryl and Wolfwood. Said man grins, points to the clock and says, “Five extra minutes.”

Vash whines and leans into the corner again. Meryl’s snickering is muffled as she closes the door and leaves Vash to his fate.

☆ Two: Naptime ☆

Vash can't count how many times those insurance girls have jumped him out in the wild. He prides himself on his keen senses and ability to evade even the most persistent of hunters, but Meryl and Milly continue to catch him off guard. 

He was heading from a saloon (quietly and peacefully, might he add!) when Milly called out to him. Naturally he waved back, quite happy to see them before he leaves that town behind.

That was the plan at least: leave before someone recognizes him and half the place gets levelled. Meryl instead latched a small hand around his wrist and dragged him to their motel room. He didn't have to follow as it would take very little effort to shake her off and continue on his way. But the way determination flared in her eyes, right alongside anger and relief, had him going along with it. With just enough whining and dragging his feet for theatrics, of course.  

That’s how Vash found himself incredibly bored, sprawled face up on the hardwood floor as Meryl diligently types up a report.

Vash sighs for the tenth time in about five minutes. Aside from the clicking typewriter is the ticking clock filling the silence of their two-bed room.

Meryl sighs and pauses in her report. “Oh, would you stop it with the dramatics?” She scoots her chair back a bit before the legs bump into Vash’s slumped form. “Being in here isn't so bad, just find something to do.”

Four painted walls, one floor, two beds, and one bathroom. Plus insurance paperwork. That’s what he has to work with. Not even Milly is there at the moment. 

Despite Milly being the one to spot him, it usually falls on Meryl’s shoulders to keep him out of trouble. If they'd ask Vash (they didn't) he'd say that it's totally unnecessary. He doesn't need nor want anyone hovering so close to him. The drifter lifestyle is easier if he’s the only one getting shot at afterall. The girls have a different opinion though. So while Milly runs to the post office, Meryl is babysitting.

Vash rolls onto his belly out of the way of Meryl’s chair. “Why couldn't I run errands with Millyyyy?” He moans.

“Because I can't leave you two alone together. Either you'll get involved in someone else’s business or spend half our allotted funds on sweets!” 

Vash wilts and hides a smile in his folded arms. “Have some more faith in us, Mer. We’re completely responsible!” 

Meryl groans and completely turns to look at Vash. “The last time you and her ran errands instead of you and that priest, she came back with too much pudding and too little rations.”

Vash springs up onto his knees. “She deserved a little treat! I’m the angel on people’s shoulders who encourages treating yourself!” 

Meryl crosses her arms, “You're the devil on our shoulders causing chaos left and right. That's exactly why you're in here and not out there doing who knows what!” 

Vash sputters, “I was leaving!” He clasps his hands together and puts on his sweetest face. “Honest!”

Meryl looks at him unamused. “Sure. And on your way out someone recognizes you, or you stick your nose where it doesn't belong and cause more trouble for us!” She points a finger right in his face. 

And whether or not that happens half the time he leaves a town behind is neither here nor there. 

Vash slumps forward, leaning his head on Meryl’s leg. “Can't we do something together? Since you’re keeping me unlawfully locked up you're required to keep me entertained as well.” He looks up at her with his best puppy eyes. 

Meryl pinches the bridge of her nose, quietly sighing. “Why don't you…sit with me or something?”

“Sit and do work?” Vash complains but wraps himself around the side of Meryl’s chair anyway. He hooks his ankles on the other side of the chair. He wraps his arms around her upper body and he rests his chin on her head. Moreso holding the chair than Meryl herself. He doesn't want to restrict her afterall. Meryl looks slightly off put at this, but ultimately doesn't say anything or correct him.

She flexes her shoulders, cracks her knuckles and gets back to typing. “Hm, I should make you do these reports shouldn't I? They're all about you, y’know.”

Vash perks up, "I'm a popular subject of your work, huh?” He tucks a hand under his chin and flashes a cheeky smile.

“They’re damage reports, Vash.” Meryl deadpans. “And quit fidgeting! You’re making it hard to focus!” 

Vash whines, wiggling his limbs gently. “But I’m still soo bored, Meryl..” He can feel the itch to do something simmering just below his skin. He wants to bounce off the walls, to rock back and forth with Meryl in her seat, he wants to wiggle and shake. Distantly, he remembers hearing Luida explain it as understimulation. 

“Why’re you so fussy today?” Meryl asks. 

“F…fussy?” He’s been called many things: loud, chaotic, destructive, but never fussy.

“Yes! You're being…fussy!” She seemed hesitant, like she didn't believe it the first time. “Like a little kid.” 

“I just need more attention, Mer, forget the report and let’s go have fuuun.”

“You need a nap.” Meryl says.

“A nap?” Vash echoes, confused.

“Yes! You take a nap and I get to work in peace. And you can’t cause any property damage while you sleep.” Meryl huffs.

“What if I’m a fierce sleep-fighter?” Vash jokes, slipping off the chair when Meryl moves to stand up.

“I’d find that priest and let him handle you.” She starts to push Vash towards the closest bed. “Now go lay down!” 

“I'm not five y'know! I don't need naptime” Vash protests by digging his heels into the floor. Meryl wouldn't be able to shove him if she used all her strength, but it's the principle of the matter! He can't give in so easily.

“The day you act like an adult is the day I'll treat you like once. Now lay.”  She shoves and shoves until Vash starts walking. 

“Alrriiiight…” Vash slumps and lets Meryl push him along 

Meryl crosses her arms at him. “You better remove that coat before you get on my bed. And remember I'm being nice enough to not make you lay on the floor.”

Vash fumbles with his coat but eventually gets it off. Meryl takes it from him and puts it over her arm. 

“And your boots.”

Vash grumbles but sits down and gets to unsnapping each belt holding his boots up. It takes him longer than it normally would, his clumsy hand and petulant mind isn't helping. He gets them off eventually, but he needs to make his disdain for naptime known so he says nothing and frowns. He pouts and flops onto his back. He lays longways so his limbs hang off the sides of the bed. 

“Lay down properly, Vash. Quit being difficult.” Meryl's foot taps against the floor. 

Vash briefly thinks that annoying her enough will make her relent. But Meryl is not easily swayed. Pissing her off more will only make his inevitable punishment worse. So he tucks his legs in and curls onto his side, resting his head on the cushy pillow.

“See? I'm laying down now.” Vash says.

Meryl throws Vash's jacket over the back of her chair and sits back down. “Good, keep that up. Make sure your mouth does this–” she mimes zipping her mouth shut. “–And you'll be asleep in no time.” She turns back to her work determined to ignore him.

Vash crosses his arms and mutters to himself that it's not fair. No way he's getting put down for a nap of all things. He never takes naps! …Getting knocked unconscious during shootouts doesn't count. The last time he willingly took a nap was well over a century ago.

This is ridiculous… but the click-clacking of Meryl's typewriter isn't as bad as before. It's almost soothing. The warmth of the room plus the clacking of keys reminds him of simpler times. The few times he would curl up next to Rem as she worked, typing on her quieter keyboard and touch-screen devices. For once he wouldn't focus on the content of her work, instead wanting to enjoy the moment with his fami–

He lightly clears his throat and rolls onto his other side. He swallows thickly and squeezes his eyes shut. The self imposed darkness does wonders for the pressure building in his head. He lets his body relax and sink into the bed. His limbs feel heavy and his mind heavier. It isn't long before he's sinking into pleasant unconsciousness.

☆

Meryl types up a few more lines of her report, cross referencing with various notes and claims. It's tiring but once she gets into a groove it isn't so bad. She checks the clock. Vash has been quiet for an hour now. It's almost eerie knowing that he's in here but isn't making a fuss. 

Almost. 

It also feels quite cozy. Knowing where Vash is puts her at ease. Not only does that mean less claims for her to file, but it's nice to see the gunman relax. He's always so high-strung no matter how much he tries to hide it. 

She slouches in her chair with a light groan. A break wouldn't hurt. And Milly should be back soon. 

She stands and stretches, raising her arms high above her head until they pop deliciously. She sighs and prattles about, planning to dig into the tea on the inn table she prepared earlier.

When she turns she sees Vash balled up with his arms crossed. He must've fallen asleep angry and pouting like a child he is, Meryl thinks fondly. She creeps over, taking care not to step on any squeaky boards, and untucks his arms. He barely stirs (must've been more tired than he let on...) She places his arms by his side and pulls the blanket over him. She pats his cheek and moves on. Before she pulls away she hears the faintest rumble from Vash. 

☆ Three: Snack Time ☆

She jolts, thinking she's disturbed him, but it sounds pleasant. It's akin to a cat. This was not what she expected but Vash always throws her for a loop. She smiles to herself and walks away, taking a seat at the table and pouring herself a cup of tea.

They're making a pit stop at Hopeland. Vash can practically feel the excitement and joy radiating from Wolfwood. The high-noon suns beam down on them harshly but it does nothing to dampen their mood. Vash clings to Wolfwood's back as they ride Angelina in the trail of Meryl and Milly's truck. 

Wolfwood tried not to let the excitement show on his face. He had kept his sunglasses snug over his eyes while they discussed their travel plan, but his body language and voice say what he's too hesitant to show in his eyes. 

They usually give him grace by not pointing it out. Except Milly this time. Hopeland was not their goal, but it isn't out of the way of their destination. So she suggested they could stop by the nearest town, stay at the orphanage for a bit, then be on their way. 

Wolfwood gave no objections but seemed flustered at being found out. Even if it wasn't really hidden in the first place. Vash thinks it's sweet wanting to see family. He feels the same way about the people of ship three (he really should visit more often…)

It makes them all happy Wolfwood can share this piece of himself with them. He was even adamant he brought something for the kids. His siblings love to hear of what he gets up to, not that he can tell them a whole lot since it's quite graphic. But they especially love trinkets or foods of the world beyond their home. They always say big brother Nico has the best gifts. 

They opted for a handful of apples, a simple but delicious treat. Hopeland does not have a Plant and while December does, they're situated on the outskirts of the city, so obtaining the fruit is a bit of an endeavor. They only purchased about five of them which the girls keep in a bag in the back of their truck. Even though they're all traveling together, Milly said Vash and Wolfwood have such awful luck that a sandworm might pop up and swallow them whole. So the cargo would be safer with her and Meryl. 

He and Wolfwood both frowned at how right she was.

Thankfully nothing of the sort happened to them and before long, with just under an hour driving, they slowed to a stop in front of the orphanage. 

Milly and Meryl hop out their truck and Vash peeks over Wolfwood's shoulder. A multitude of children press their faces against the front windows and some come spilling out the door. Their eyes shine and once they spot Nick they take off running towards him. He has enough time to kill the engine, dismount and take a few steps before a gaggle of kids try to leap into his arms. It's cute how his smiles come easily when he's with them. 

Wolfwood kneels and opens his arms, letting his siblings crowd him. A smaller group of kids move to overwhelm Milly and Meryl. Milly happily lets them clamber over her. Meryl, a little stiled but no less caring, smiles at them.

The door squeaks yet again as Miss Melanie and a handful of older kids hang back, no less excited to see them but not wanting to crowd them too much.

“Give ‘em space, y’all.” Miss Melanie walks out and the children part to give her room.

“Naw, they're alright.” Wolfwood brushes sand off his pant legs and stands. He's quite taller than Miss Melanie but ducks his head to be closer to her level. 

Vash wonders if he's aware he’s doing it. It certainly makes it easier for the woman to pat his cheek, which always turns into a pinch as she gently chews him out. This time it's for not sending word before they got there.

“It was ‘sposed to be a surprise, of course we didn't tell ya.” Wolfwood says. He brings his hand up to pat Miss Melanie's that was still pinching him. “We're passin’ by and y'all weren't out of the way, so here we are.”

“Sorry if we're interrupting anything, ma'am.” Meryl calls out as she approaches. Milly jogs behind her carrying the bag of apples. “We brought something for the kids though.” 

Milly happily presents the apples to which Miss Melanie smiles but fusses and says they didn't have to. She takes the bag and thanks the girls and tells the kids to do the same. Their little faces light up at the promise of sweet fresh fruit.

“We can get the snacks prepared for everyone.” Milly offers.

Miss Melanie seems grateful for the help. She smiles and leads them inside. Several of the children run off to go play but many follow the group into the kitchen. 

Melanie sits the bag onto the counter. “I have to get back to hanging laundry but y'all know your way around the kitchen, yes?”

Milly gives a triumphant ‘mhm!’ and Melanie leaves.

Nick's limbs are getting tugged on by a handful of kids, all asking him to play with them or share stories of where he's been lately. 

“Alright, alright.” Nick raises his arms and lifts the two kids holding onto him into the air. They squeal with delight and swing to and fro. “Everyone will get time with me, alright?” The children cheer and Wolfwood turns to leave the kitchen. He calls over his shoulder “And Lil’ Miss will join us! Sounds like fun right?” 

Meryl freezes. She already had her sleeves rolled up in prep to handle food. Usually either Vash or Milly join Nick on child rearing duty. Not that Meryl isn't good with children, she's just the least experienced. Vash and Milly both stifle laughter at her reaction. 

“C'moon, leave Mills and Spikey to make snacks.” Wolfwood says grinning at her. Meryl's eyes flit between Nick in the doorway and Vash and Milly, but she recovers and follows him out of the kitchen. 

The bubbling laughter of the kids fades slightly as they travel several rooms down. It fills Vash with glee being able to be a part of these happy moments.

“Alright, Vash, I know just how to divvy them up.” Milly says while pulling the apples out the bag. “And if we carve them a certain way they'll look cute too, so let's get started!”

“I’m on it!” Vash makes himself useful and grabs two knives and a plate.

“Just watch me first.” Milly passes an apple to Vash and carefully cuts her own into slices. She then takes a slice and carves the flesh off most of the piece until the remaining skin juts out in 2 pointed ends overhanging the peeled section. 

“See?” Milly holds the slice up triumphantly. “It's like a little bunny.”

Vash gasps in awe. “Where'd you learn this from?” 

Milly places the finished slice on a plate. “From watching my Middle-big siblings make them for my Younger-big siblings. And our Middle-big siblings learned from our Big-big siblings.” She's always happy to talk about family. Vash loves how her eyes shine and her smiles broaden.

“We didn't get fresh fruit often, but when we did they wanted it to feel extra special.” She gets to work on another slice and Vash starts on his own apple. “Sometimes we'd cut them into stars or hearts, but the bunnies were always my favorite. It must've been the appeal of Old Earth at the time.” 

Milly places another finished slice on the plate while Vash starts peeling his first one. “Every kid gets a little obsessed with it at that age right? Something about the awe and mystery of our ancestors' home.”

“I definitely know I was.” Vash doesn't talk about his home life a lot, and he isn't about to start now, but he feels more comfortable sharing a bit more. “I would reread the same books about different terrains; real oceans and grass fields.” Ship five had very good replication of those, so after reading he and Knives would be taken to the real thing.

Vaah hesitates only briefly before asking. “What's it like having a large family like that?” He wishes he could have half the enthusiasm as she does when thinking about his own family. But being able to hear about it will be enough for him.

“It's a lot like Hopeland actually.” Milly hums thoughtfully. She finishes her first apple and grabs another. “Always noisy, even at night if you've got snorers. It's not bad though because you know it's home. Sometimes I even miss the noise when it gets quiet. Or if I haven't visited in a while.” She bumps her hip against Vash's. “But you guys are so lively it makes up for that. The bickering and yelling reminds me of home.”

Vast lets himself get lost in the rhythm of slicing and peeling while listening to Milly. Her gentle voice floats over him with tales of sweet, happy, and sometimes sad moments. But the undertones of each story remains warm as Milly highlights how her family (and families in general) stick together during rough times and hopefully will come out stronger afterwards.

Vash smiles along but wishes he could relate. He had a good year of his life where he was happy with his family, and despite the misgivings of his estranged brother, he can't help but long for that again. 

Vash is pulled from his thoughts when something pokes his cheek. He turns to Milly who smiles and holds a peeled slice up to him. “Here, Vash, try one.” 

Vash blinks at her. “Aren’t these for the kids..?” While they do look cute and juicy Vash is above stealing from children.

Milly leans close and speaks in a hushed voice. “As chefs we get to taste test our food.”

Oh, well that simplifies things! Vash opens his mouth and Milly happily feeds him the apple slice. He almost feels bad eating such a cute snack, but the refreshing cool juice that soon coats his mouth is worth it. A delighted grin spreads on Vash's face. It's soo yummy! Milly laughs and grins in return and goes back to slicing and peeling. 

“Good, right?” Milly asks.

Vash hums and nods. He enjoys his snack and watches Milly finish slicing her last apple.

“Aaaannd done!” Milly sets her knife down. She successfully crafted cute slices from four of the apples while Vash only finished half of one. Having been too caught up listening and in his own thoughts to be as useful as she was. 

“Oops, sorry, Mills.” 

“That’s alright, these should be enough for them to share anyway.” Milly doesn't seem fazed. She calls for Nick who eventually reenters the kitchen. It seems the younger girls got to him already as there's a few cute clips in his hair.

“Well ain't that an interesting shape." Wolfwood eyes the plate from all angles taking in their (mostly Milly's) craftsmanship. “Real cute, but what are they?”

“They’re supposed to be bunnies, an old Earth animal." Vash chimes in. “Mine didn't turn out as well as hers though.” 

“Relax, Blondie, they all look fine.” Wolfwood grabs the plate and turns to leave. “The kids will appreciate ‘em.”

Vash looks away from Wolfwood's retreating form and down at the apple halve he still has. Nick hadn't mentioned it at all.

“Uh… What're we gonna do with this one?” Vash asks.

Milly reaches and slides the apple to her side of the counter. She picks up her knife and gets back to slicing. “Why don't we share it? I think adults should have snack time too.”

Vash gnaws his bottom lip. “But what about Nick and Meryl?”

Milly winks at him. “It’ll be our secret.”

Vash smiles and watches Milly prepare their own treat. They'll each get two slices, two very cute bunny-shaped slices. Soft and sweet moments like this that he shares with the group always bring a heavy but comforting cloudy haze to his mind. It makes him feel warm inside. 

☆ Plus One: Admittance ☆

He and Milly enjoy their snack to the backdrop of a warm cozy day filled with the cheerful noise of a big happy family.

An evening spent indoors is somewhat of a rarity of the drifter lifestyle. One rife with inconsistent beds, the grit of endless sand, and stomach cramps since rations only go so far.

But not tonight! The four of them managed to snag a double room in the small town they've stopped in. They were all too tired and sand-coated to care about the lack of privacy and took whatever room the innkeeper had. The lackluster resources in this backwater town have left most buildings creaky and sand-blasted. But they don't care. They're going to enjoy this well deserved respite while they can. 

They'd already had their fun gulping cheap beer and now lay around buzzed. Thankfully they'd already bathed and changed into their sleep wear, so all they have to do is crawl into the appropriate beds. 

Milly had been the first to flop and claim a bed. She lay with her limbs spread wide taking up most of the space. Wolfwood lays on his back and props himself up on an elbow. Meryl sits tucked near him and leans back on one of his knees. She's always the most eager of them once the drinks come out, a complete 180 from her being a put-together office woman during the day. Wolfwood teased her for that earlier the way she chugged her first drink.

Vash is sprawled out in the center of the room between the two beds. The thin carpet does little to cushion him against the hardwood floor, but that hardly matters in his tipsy state. The scritchy-scratch feel against his cheek reminds him of Nick's stubble. Laughter bubbles out of him at the comparison.

“What's so funny down there?” Wolfwood peers past Meryl and asks. He's probably the most sober of them all, although not by much.

“Mmm nothin’…” Vash says as his eyes slip closed. His mind feels soupy. He couldn't put to words the similarity of the rug and Wolfwood's face to save his life. 

It's not just the alcohol that has him feeling so fuzzy and syrupy in the head. Lately his companions have been making him feel this way with a bit of coddling. He doesnt get why they do it but he won’t voice any complaints. With how cozy and easy they are to be around they put him at ease. It both stresses and soothes him to know they're caring enough to put their lives in danger for him. 

One of the beds creaks and suddenly Milly slides down to the floor next to him. “Ooh, are we having tummy time?” She rolls onto her belly, folds her arms and props her head on them. 

Vash cracks an eye open to peek at Milly. “Sure, but ‘m not a baby...” 

The bed creaks again as Meryl sits up and chimes in. “Well, you act like one more often than not.” 

“Oh! An’ here I thought you were sleepin’, Lil’ Lady.” Wolfwood says. “Figured you'd be out til mornin’ the way ya drank yer weight in alcohol.” 

Meryl lightly slaps Wolfwood's chest. “We all drank, why do you sound so sober?”

“Eh, it takes more than a couple cans of the cheap stuff to get me like Spikey down there.”

“Heeyyy,” Vash whines from the floor, not hurt at all by the comment. “I'm not drunk, I'm just…feelin’ good. I dunno why y'all treat me like a kid, but it's nice….is that weird?”

“Ain't much normal about ya, blondie.” Wolfwood says.

Milly chuckles. “He has a point, Vash.” She says while kicking her feet. “But that's not a bad thing. It's great that it brings you comfort.”

“..I miss it sometimes.” Vash thinks it might be the alcohol that loosens his tongue and prompts him to spill his guts. “Even though it's been ages since I've been a kid, I still feel like one sometimes…dunno why.” Vash stares at his hand and flexes his fingers. “I know I'm not, but sometimes I feel too small for this body. But it's not too bad when you guys treat me… like that, y'know?"

Vash chances a glance at his friends and finds them all looking at him with surprised faces. His cheeks flush with embarrassment and he curls in on himself. Did he say too much?

Milly reaches out to pat his arm. “That's really sweet, Vash. You know we're glad to help.”

Vash smiles at her. “I… appreciate that.” 

Just admitting that kind of hurts. It sends a pang though him at the thought of them getting too close. But they've already crammed themselves next to his heart and there isn't much he can do to remove them. 

“Luida and Brad took care of me as a kid,” Vash starts. There was someone before them, but he isn't quite ready for that conversation. “They're plenty nice now but back then things were…tense, at best.”

Truly he believes they did their best caring for him given the circumstances at the time. Although he couldn't help but yearn for more when he saw the close-knit families of the ship's residents and outsiders. It made him question that maybe, just maybe, only feeling needed when one of his sisters was sick left him with lingering issues that affect him today.

“M glad they gave me a room but they got annoyed with me so easily.” Vash rolls onto his back. “You guys don't though.” He pauses. “Well, you do, but you don't mind dealing with me when I'm annoying.”

Wolfwood cocks a brow. “That's called patience, Blondie. Somethin’ we got in spades. Who cares if yer annoying? Everyone is sometimes.” He reaches a hand out to lightly pinch and twist Meryl's cheek. “Like this.” Wolfwood pokes and pokes, squishes and pinches, until she bats his hand away. 

“Stop that,” Meryl says.

“See? I'm plenty annoying and Lil’ Miss still likes me!”

“I tolerate you at best.” Meryl says while flopping back onto Wolfwood. “But he has a point…” Whatever else she says is too garbled to make out as she curls back into him.

“...Yeah exactly.” Wolfwood says.

That gets a chuckle out of Vash and Milly.

Milly takes one of Vash's hands in her own. “Of course we care about you, Vash. Even when you put us in danger.” 

Warm fuzzies burst within Vash's chest. For some reason, despite his friends showing their earnest care and affection in their own ways over time, hearing it like that makes him very happy. A croon bubbles out of him and pinpricks tingle along his cheeks. 

Milly and Wolfwood look at him in awe.

“Y…ya doin’ alright, Spikey?” Wolfwood asks. 

Huh? Vash rubs at his face and feels small downy feathers sprout his cheeks. Oh! So those came out… but he's not in any danger? He hasn't sprouted happy feathers in ages. 

He isn't sure if he has the words or brain power to explain it well. They've only seen his feathers in poor circumstances. Nick and Milly look a little frightened. He's glad Meryl isn't awake for this.

“Mhm, yeah. These are, uhh, good feathers.” Vash murmurs. Wolfwood and Milly share a look but gradually relax. 

Vash can't fight the smile that comes to his face at his friends' concern. He sinks further into the warm fluffy cloud of his mind, letting himself feel the young age he hardly got to be. In the presence of his friends he doesn't have to bother hiding it.

Vash lets out a loud sigh at the same time Meryl starts snoring. They all look at her slumped and cozily nestled into Wolfwood. He scoots away so she can lay on the mattress, but she loosely clings to him so he remains sitting. 

“Guess Lil’ Miss n’ I are sharing this bed.” Nick says while maneuvering him and Meryl into a comfier position beneath the blanket. “Y'all should get up off the floor already.” 

Both Milly and Vash groan but slowly clamber onto the bed. Milly flicks off the singular lamp on the bedside table between the beds and crawls under the covers. “C’mon, Vash. If they're going to break sleeping order and cuddle then we can too.”

“Not cuddlin’ by choice.” Wolfwood says. No one believes him, of course. They've all fallen asleep on him at some point, or had him fall asleep on them, and he can be quite the cuddler. 

Milly and Vash giggles to themselves and curl around each other. 

They all wish each other goodnight and fall asleep. Nice and comfy, happy and safe. Vash gets to share his most secret intimate parts and be loved despite them.

~~~~~

End Note: My last fic for a while as I have to lock in on some artwork. Hopefully I can get another fic finished before university starts again, but no promises ^^;