#dandy's x reader

DANDY

loves cuddles. loves kisses. loves affection so long as its from you honestly- youre like. his favorite person and theres no better way to make him feel like the center of the universe than to give him some loving!

the big and little spoon thing doesnt really exist between you two.. you both kind of just cling onto each other and call it cuddling..! when its with you behind closed doors he doesnt really feel the need to conform to roles

i believe in chubby dandy supremacy. hes soft, hes warm. hes kinda got that gardener/farmer build about him that shows off that hes built study underneath... overall a nice feel AND he smells nice! hes a flower afterall!

ASTRO

big spoon, little spoon, strewn over one another... it doesnt matter to him! any cuddling is good cuddling although be warned that hes most certainly going to fall asleep at some point... maybe you planned to take a nap too, in which case... get to sleep!

ive mentioned it before but he smells like lavender and jasmine, its hard to stay awake for long when youre cuddling into his blanket... nice and soft and warm and fuzzy and ooouguugh.... you cant help but to shove your face into the fuzz

and his room... oh his room is perfect cuddling setting- nice and ambient and comfortable, not too stuffy or dark or bright

VEE

cuddling? yeah.... not really her thing... physical affection is something shes picky with anyway, so its no surprise that cuddling isnt really something shes all that interested in. but if you ask nicely she might just humor you!

they sometimes have to angle their head awkwardly to make sure the corners dont poke you in the eye... its not exactly a comfortable fit for either of you and it leaves her neck sore if she holds the pose for too long

runs a little warm and she has a vague buzz to her like how some older tvs vibrate... not terrible, actually, if thats something you like

SHELLY

vaguely smells like dirt but like. in the good nature way. like she just got back from running around in nature. nice and earthy... its hard to be mad at it! shes a little cold to the touch, id imagine shells arent very warm

but shes eager to lay down with you and snuggle under some blankets if her lack of body heat isnt too much of a problem... she takes a page from poppys book and makes a blanket fort for you guys to hide under

its so nice and cozy under the blankets, no matter how hard you both try to stay awake you eventually both succumb- sleepy conversation eventually go quiet

SPROUT

also giving sprout the honorary "he puts himself between you and the door while you guys sleep out of a need to be a barrier to protect you should something happen" headcanon. hes protective, are you really that surprised? its just something to give him some peace of mind

his scarf is nice and soft, and he smells of strawberries and whatever hes baked that day.. usually cupcakes.. sweet and sugary.. sometimes its a little much though

BOXTEN

honestly its going to take a long... long time... for him to grow fully confident in kissing you- he just doesnt want to be weird about it or think he doesnt really... know what hes doing

he was hopeless in the beginning so youd have to take charge, but he does get the hang of things after a while, trust!

definitely the type to squeeze his eyes shut really tight, and waaaay too early... might smack his face against yours... likes kissing you where you like to be kissed- just say where!

COSMO

similarly to cosmo he prefers if you told him where you want to be kissed- he doesnt have anywhere in specific where he likes to aim! well... okay thats not entirely true, he does like giving you kisses on the cheek when his hands are busy

he... of course... smells and tastes like chocolate- dont bite him though because hes... probably not going to let you get close enough to do it again if its like... an earnest attempt to get some of his face

he doesnt like kissing you when theres other people around- hes shy about PDA, but he doesnt mind giving you a peck when theres people around hes close with

FINN

the quickest way to make him shut up is to pepper his face with kisses- hes going to be so taken aback that it makes him cut the puns... and it works everytime! definitely has that sheepish dorky string of giggles the entire time

he sometimes gets a little too excited and clinks his glass against your teeth and it... hurts... obviously... he always always always feels awful for it- you dont think youve ever heard someone shoot out such a quick string of apologies

as mentioned in the pocky post his mouth is kinda... 2d... the best he can do is press the location against you and make a sound

GLISTEN

again, hes another one with the "2d mouth" problem- but he only makes the "mwah" sound if youre having a bad day and need something extra- just to get a smile out of you

thankfully though he doesnt clink you with his glass- hes far more careful and he doesnt want to ruin his makeup either! and he doesnt mind kissing around others all that much, its just a peck its nothing scandalous

likes being kissed on the back of his hand... makes him feel a certain way.. special... hes not picky when it comes to your affection but the hand kisses always make his heart flutter

GOOB

definitely giggles into the kiss- sometimes it can be hard to have a more serious intimate moment but hes just so cute... you can never really be angry over it! 100% if he had a tail it would be wagging like mad behind him

you have to mind his teeth though, youve definitely been left with at least one nick on your lips... never enough to bleed but its definitely something to watch out for

he loooooooooves wrapping his arms around you during kisses- and he loves all sorts of placements. forehead, cheek, mouth, ect. youre sure if he wore lipstick youd be painted in his preferred color within a few short minutes

LOOEY

poor thing... another 2d mouther... he'd be an awkward kisser anyway, he doesnt want to be too much but he doesnt want to make you think hes not into it- its best you show him what you want

he does think its a little funny if you lightly squish his head in your hands when you cup his cheeks for the kiss- it doesnt really bother him since its never a tight squeeze, he sees the humor in it

....he does smell like a balloon though... rubber... latex... hopefully you dont mind the smell all that much, especially so up close

RAZZLE

love love loves giving you a kiss on the cheek whenever he sees you! its quick, so its so much easier for him to give you one in passing when he and dazzle need to be somewhere quick

he likes to kiss you as a greeting and parting, hes a bit corny but sometimes a kiss is so much more welcoming than simply saying hello!

and if you asked him where he preferred to be kissed hed tell you where ever you think feels right... in reality he loves getting forehead kisses

DAZZLE

he likes kissing the back of your hand, its a little more... intimate... but its sweet, and he likes taking his time with it... though that does deny him the chance to really give you some loving in passing like razzle does

he also does the hand kisses as a greeting and parting- he was... a little shy and clunky about it in the beginning but its become so natural by now that you instinctually offer him your hand the moment youre within each others bubbles

he likes... being kissed on the cheek... its nice... he doesnt like pda all that much though...

RODGER

he has no mouth so he needs to be a little creative about it... and creativity stops short in the form of simply pressing where his mouth would be to you. he unfortunately does not make a "mwah" sound he doesnt really see the point in it nor does it cross his mind

LOVES "kissing" the back of your hand and knuckles, and he will maintain eye contact as he takes your hand in his to get the act done

he doesnt really like pda though- he likes to maintain some look of professionalism in front of the others... and there arent many places on his face to kiss him... :(

SHRIMPO

he thinks its stupid.

DANDY

looooooves greeting you with a kiss whenever he gets the chance to see you- he thinks its sweet, sweet little gesture... feels really domestic and classic... cheesy maybe but he doesnt care if its cliche

he really likes giving you a nice big kiss on the cheek whenever you let him- and hes going to do it regardless of what company you guys are sporting. MAYBE he wont do it in front of the handlers, but know hes going to sneak one as soon as he can

as for where he likes being kissed...? his forehead is a nice place to start if you wanna see him get giddy over you! he could never turn down your attention!

SHELLY

ohohoho kissing is nice! it might not be her first means of giving affection but she loves kissing you! gets this giddy grin before she makes contact

she doesnt mind kissing you in front of others... the only reason she doesnt do it is because she doesnt want to make you uncomfortable if thats not something you enjoy

she likes kissing you on the cheeks and mouth... definitely holds your hands in hers during it too... likes being kissed wherever you see fit

VEE

she cant really... kiss you... her face is a screen- there isnt really a physical mouth for her to really... kiss you... sure she can boink her screen against your face but its not really... efficient

of course youre free to kiss her as much as you like, but just know that they dont really do much for her emotionally. she prefers other means of showing off affection- but she commends you for your effort

no, hand holding... gift giving... verbal words mean a lot more to her than kissing ever could- something something "she cant properly experience it so it doesnt mean much to her" thing going on

SPROUT

shocker he tastes like strawberries- smells like them too so hopefully youre into that... i would assume you would be if youre with him, though!

he isnt too crazy about PDA but hes not going to shut you down if you try to kiss him in passing while hes baking something or otherwise has his hands full

another cheek kisser, loves giving and getting kisses on the cheek in passing when you guys see each other. thinks its funny when you try to steal some extra smooches cuz he tastes good

ASTRO

he doesnt kiss you all that often actually. its not that he doesnt enjoy kissing you its just that sometimes... he feels there need to be a setup. affection is hard for him to just dish out- its not fully that he thinks it will water down the meaning... not to him at least.. he doesnt want to water it down for *you*

forehead kisses... loves giving you forehead kisses before you drift off to sleep... if hes feeling bolder he might wake you up with them too

BLOT

hes kind of cold... and sticky... and wet.. im sure if he leaves ink footsteps hes going to leave stains as you cuddle... so hopefully you dont mind being a bit of a mess during and after cuddling- or really most physical affection

he... doesnt actually like cuddling all that much because of this. its such a hassle and he likes being a show off about his love in other ways- of course he is! he looooves making a performance of things when its things he feels like matter a lot to him!

on the chance you guys do cuddle he can go either way about being big or little spoon

BOXTEN

hes such an awkward cuddler... where does he put his hands? is this okay? youre not uncomfortable when he holds you like this- or this- or-... it takes him a minute to get comfortable and find something that works for the both of you

he actually does like cuddling you despite all the squirming, its just that he doesnt know how to play it cool long enough for you guys to really get into it. give him some time and with experience he'll become more confident with this!

he actually prefers being little spoon but he feels a certain pressure to be big spoon... please let him know he can be little spoon whenever he wants

COSMO

soft and fluffy- just like a real cake. sometimes you leave indents on him... sometimes watching them slowly puff back into place is nice, its satisfying in its own way. he also smells nice too! overall a nice experience overall!

he doesnt much care for the big/little spoon way of cuddling, whatever position you guys take in bed that leaves you both in close proximity works for him! lay on him- or let him lay on you.. smoosh into each others sides- get creative with it if you must!

sometimes his icing drizzle makes you all sticky though :(

FINN

cuddling with him can be a little awkward... hes made of glass and his head is full of water- you cant really fully lay down and huddle into him without the risk of getting wet

usually you guys cuddle while sitting or otherwise propped up- not always the most comfortable but hey- you guys dont really have much of a choice otherwise

kind of cold to the touch too thanks to the water and glass but hes got a few blankets to try to warm himself up for you! he can go either way about being big or little spoon.... and hes not ashamed to ask to be held!

GLISTEN

hes cold and hard- mirror stuff, hes... admittedly not the most comfortable... and hes somewhat (very) insecure about it... but you guys have managed to find work arounds! covers and blankets- give him a nice robe to lounge around in and hes going to be obsessed!

he tends to prefer being little spoon, but he tries to be big spoon for you more often than not- something about wanting to please you... but once those walls are let down and he allows himself to be more honest about how hes feeling and thinking around you he melts right into your arms

definitely pouts when you need to get up to do something mid cuddle- hes only mildly upset in reality

GOOB

well he loves hugging.. and whats cuddling if not an extended hug? of course hes going to cling onto you the moment you bring it up- and a lot of times you dont even need to open your mouth.. just gotta pat the bed and hes sprinting towards you

wraps his arms all up around you to keep you as close as possible- the whole big/little spoon thing doesnt really cross his mind, he just wants you as close as possible in the moment! sometimes his claws kind of sink into you... not enough to hurt or break the skin but hes definitely accidentally poked you

nice and fluffy and warm, sometimes its like snuggling into a blanket fresh from the dryer... you could stay like this forever!

LOOEY

Already have cuddling hcs here!

RAZZLE AND DAZZLE

Already have cuddling hcs here!

RODGER

he prefers to be big spoon, something about holding you and keeping you so close to him is... nice and comforting. he gets the horary "tends to put himself between you and the door as a subconscious barrier to protect you in case of anything,"... not that he thinks theres any danger around, its habit really

he smells like bitter coffee though so hopefully you dont mind that too much- sometimes getting him into bed to come cuddle you can be a fight too since he has a habit of getting really sucked into his cases.. hes determined and bordering on obsessive

he also occasionally likes having you simply laying across his chest

SHRIMPO

he burns hot. on the rare chance he actually lets you cuddle with him hes going to be uncomfortably warm and its... overall not a good time... hes kind of sweaty too and smells like... well shrimp...

COSMO

He's basically throwing cookies at you- he's hoping to god that it's enough to patch you up. Or at least to hold you over until a plan can be made...

So so so much panic- sure this isn't the first time a toon has been injured in a run but he's never wanted you to get hurt. Not like this... your current situation is on the worse side too

He doesn't even really take in your request for ibuprofen, maybe it's panic... maybe he just chalks your request up to senseless rambling caused by the nature of your injury

GOOB

Its... almost funny how he tries to hold your head together with his hands. As if that would do anything to help you... it'd probably make things worse because of how tightly he's holding you together

Wraps his arms around you... rocks you back and forth. Is it to comfort you, or himself? It's hard to tell

He starts asking everyone for ibuprofen the second you request some... even if you clearly have more than a little ache

LOOEY

When he turned around and found one of the twisteds he was distracting missing... he's obviously nervous. And it turns into horror when you casually stumble to the elevator with a chunk missing from your head

He genuinely can't tell of your request for ibuprofen is genuine or not... but regardless of if you have a history of trying to break tension he's going to be freaking out

DEMANDS everyone calls the run quits to bring you back up to treat you as best as possible. He doesn't know what to do... can a bandaid really fix this? He doesn't pick up healing items for himself... he's nearly begging everyone else to cough something up for you.. not a good time- he can't keep up his optimism :(

ASTRO

He knows he's always urging you to get some rest... but he's going to keep you awake until your condition is stabilized and sorted out

Oh he is definitely going to be taking you to sprout as soon as he's able to.. until then you're not going to be leaving his side. He's genuinely considering using his blanket to cover up the bleeding if there's no bandages on hand. It's not the best solution but it's something to slow it down.. he has more blankets anyway...

DANDY

He's probably the first one to greet you, honestly. He's like... THE toon. The show is named after him, he's the poster boy after all!

Surely he won't be at least a little annoyed that someone already beat him to the punch.... right...? Right??

He's a very busy toon, not only is he a main but he's also again, THE main. Getting to talk to him for more than a minute while there's visitors is nearly impossible... but he'll be sure to drop by your room for a hello once everything calms down for the day! ...maybe...

ASTRO

It's not that he's overstimated- mostly- it's just that he's tired by the time the day is over with... so it'll take him a while to approach you to welcome you... and he may seem out of it if you approach before he's ready

He's nice! A little accidentally... distant.. but he truly is happy to see a new toon added to gardenviews lineup. Who wouldn't be happy to have a new potential friend?

Ignore how he's seemingly nodding off where he stands... ts not that you're boring. He's simply a little sleepy...! You'll have to get used to that..!

VEE

Oh cool, a new toon. She's not going to be all over you but she's not going to ignore you if you come say hi. Small talk before she's swept away by the visitors.. or you're snatched away

If you seem like the smart type she might just invite you onto her show... she's not usually so quick to let someone on but what the hell! Who wouldn't want a new face to spice things up!

She is quick to set some boundaries up of you're pushing buttons or pose any risk to her techy bits

SHELLY

She doesn't let the fact you didn't notice her at first effect her... at least not outwardly. She's more forgiving in this instance anyways, you did just arrive afterall

Gives you a nice welcome- she's just happy to have someone new to talk to... if you ever want to have a nice camera hang out she's your girl to go to..! Just.. don't forget that she's just a call away..!

There's more time to talk to her during the day due to her being not as popular as the other Mains :( or even some of the non mains...

SPROUT

Oh heeeeeeeey you! He's probably already heard about you! If not from another toon than through one of the handlers!

He's not gonna be all over you but he's at least going to make you feel welcome enough- at least a normal amount of welcoming! He doesn't strike me as the type to be overly buddy buddy with a new toon just because they've just come out of.... wherever the toons are made...

He does seem to perk up a little if you express an interest in the ktichen... common ground can go far!

BOXTEN

It takes him a minute to approach you... he's gotta work himself up to it- he's not the boldest toon out there.. and he seems a little proud of himself that he didn't stumble over his words...! He will be overthinking his first impression later that night though...

The fact you're getting swarmed also puts him off a little... it's just so many people- it's overwhelming. Makes him wonder how he pulled through the initial hype when he was new.. silently sympathizes with you- tried to quietly give you reassurance from across the room but the voice in the back of his mind tries to tell him it looks like he's mocking you

He doesn't really talk.. not really a rambler either, especially with an acquaintance... but he does take note of any questions you have and tries to direct you to who could possibly help you once it becomes clear that he might not be the best fit

BRIGHTNEY

Her light burns a little brighter when she catches a glimpse of you... she didn't think she'd be seeing you so soon!

Wastes no time in walecoming you to gardenview, and hardly any time to bring up the boom club to see if you're interested... if you are, great! If not, that's okay!

If you ever need a hand to keep track of what you need to do and how things work around here she's more than happy to draw up a list for you and give you a hand where she can!

CONNIE

Oh she probably knows about you already... she's sneaky like that...! She's just trying to get a feel for your vibe before revealing herself. Totally. Definitely. Mhm!

She can't help herself- it's always so fun spooking new toons who don't know about her ability yet- she doesn't mean to be.. well, mean..! It's just funny!

She's got like... details on everyone! She's your gal to go for some gossip or to figure out what everyone else's deal with... though she may be biased against/for some toons so it's best to do your probing yourself to form your own opinions...

COSMO

He doesn't carry Boxtens shyness so he is more likely to approach you within a shorter time frame if you end up in the same area! He may trip over his words but that's just because he wants to make a good impression..!

If you ever need a little pick me up you can find him in the kitchen! Alongside Sprout and maybe Boxten-- and if it's the holidays ginger too...! It's a real nice place to hang out that's not too overstimulating-!

Similar to Boxten he will attempt to guide you to anyone who could help you with anything- except he's likely to physically bring you to someone or someone to you than simply... telling

FINN

Bold of you to assume he's not going to open up with a joke. "OH it's so nice to sea you," he'd wave but he wasn't sure if you'd he able to see him over the stream of visitors!

If you can bare through his constant puns he's actually not that bad. He's nice. Passionate about his interests- and of course he's going to be asking about yours!

Moderate popularity with the visitors so you can hang around and talk to him when you're not getting swarmed. He does share a good laugh about it with you- you'll get used to the attention... or find your footing once the hype dies

FLUTTER

Oh she's right by your side the second it looks like you need a breather from the swarm of visitors- you can come decompress with her until you need to get back out there..!

She's kind... a good listener. You're not sure how you can understand her when she's yet to speak a single word but you feel she's already been questioned about that a lot.. you don't want to possibly pester her with it

She lingers around you until closing to help you get through the day and the sea of visitors!

GIGI

She's friendly..! Really she is..! It's just that freshly baked toons can sometimes be fun to mess with... and she's taken a page out of Connie's book... she's not going to be a bully but she won't be able to help herself- telling you that you should totally do (x) which definitely won't make you look at least a little silly

You... might want to keep an eye on your belongings. She's usually not mean enough to nab someone else's things... maybe.. but by God the episode where she had to learn that lesson only slightly shook that habit

If you don't meet her through Connie, you'll be introduced to Connie through Gigi... as well as some other toons!

GLISTEN

Hes.. nice enough! Sure he may be... well himself.. but he's not going to ignore you if you approach him for help... though he is just a hint envious of the crowd you've made for yourself- but he's not going to fault you for it. Makes him miss the days where he was brand new and had all the attention

He's at least a little interested in finding out what your deal is... even if he's waiting to properly introduce himself- and he's definitely going to make a little show of it to make sure you don't forget his name!

Not intense.. but he does mellow out over the next few times you bump into each other once the desire to impress the newbie backs off a bit

GOOB

He's like an excited puppy when you meet each other! A new toon! Yay! A new friend, hopefully?

He's very physical- he doesn't mean to make you uncomfortable... if he is making you uneasy just say the word and he'll back off! He's not the best with subtle cues...

Oh oh oh you've gotta come with him to go meet his sister! Oh oh and you've gotta meet- you're going to meet so many toons through him...

LOOEY

Oh! New guy (/gender neutral)! He... actually doesn't lean into the clown act during an introduction. At least he doesn't rely on it- he definitely slips in a few jokes here and there if there's time but he's more focused on getting names exchanged and overall having a quick chat before he needs to go back to performing with the rest of his circus act

He's more than happy to let you come watch those acts! It'll give you a place to unwind after such a busy day! Or... if something calmer is more your style, he'll direct you to other toons

Generally a sweetheart- his cheerful demeanor comes in handy when meeting someone new- child and toon alike!

RAZZLE & DAZZLE

POPPY

Wastes zero time in introducing herself- even if you don't end up being friends in the future she's going to make sure you at least have fun on your first day

She introduces you to other toons as you come across them- she's real... bubbly. Pun only partly intended! She's going to make sure you meet just about everyone- or as many toons as possible!

And of course, she makes it clear that you're always welcome to come hang out with her and her group of gals- she'll make sure to put in a good word for you!

Similar reactions different energies! Razzle is more upbeat and open to talking. He tends to take the lead... not that he doesnt let dazzle speak of course. Dazzle also greets you! He's just lower energy

You're always welcome to their stage... or their room... if you express an interest in stories or books, Dazzle may tell you about Brightneys book club! Maybe he can help you get in... will be embarrassed if you tell him you already knew about the club

You do end up making a lot of friends through each of them- they both have their own groups of friends so double the introductions!

RODGER

A warm and polite welcome! He may ask a few questions... ice breakers mostly... and also because, well... you know...

You may or may not be spared from an interrogation- really it depends on how guarded you are with new people... and what all is going on at the moment- hes not the most popular toon but you're new... you're definitely going to be swarmed until the hype dies down

You... get the feeling it's going to be hard to keep secrets to yourself for long with him around... maybe... surely he'd respect boundaries and privacy (he does!) (At least he fully does when there's no mystery that may or may not put others in danger)

SHRIMPO

SCRAPS

She's not as... excitable or cheerful as her brother. She's definitely still cheery but she's more reserved about it. If you need a break from the visitors she can try to snag some away with the promise of arts and crafts so you're not all smothered

Arts and crafts is actually a gold way to open up to someone- a great ice breaker activity! So of course she's also going to invite you to come make something alongside her brother and toodles! It's a nice wind down activity after closing and before bedtime

Give her some time and she'll make you a welcome gift!

You hardly get a word in before he yells at you that he hates you already... you unfortunately don't know that that's his whole... thing.. so you don't know not to take it to heart or to not be confused

No like seriously what did you do you hardly introduced yourself- he cut you off after the first word... did you look at him wrong??

You quickly find out that he's just a hater, though... he's very open about his hatred for everything

TEAGAN

It doesn't take long at all for her to invite you to have some tea with her once the day calms down and all the visitors have left... it's all to get to know you better and make you feel more comfortable!

If you're comfortable with it, they will invite more toons... it'll give you a chance to get to know more of them! But if not... Teagans more than happy to just have it be the two of you

So so kind and patient with you as you get the hang of how everything works. If you ever need someone to talk to as you adjust to gardenview she's more than happy to let you vent to them

TOODLES

TISHA

It's not that she meant to ignore you... it's just that sometimes the visitors can be a little... messy... and it drives her nuts! But rest assured she will make it right once gardenview closes for the day and everything is cleaned up- and with Tishas speed and efficiency it won't take long after closing for her to stop by your new room!

Pleased that your room is- at least for now as you've yet to have a proper chance to make it a living space- neat and tidy... if you ever need a hand with things let her know... she'll at least let you know where the cleaning supplies are

You quickly pick up on a lot of tricks to get stains out and keep everything looking spick n span... Tisha is more than a little proud of herself that she's rubbed off on you

She's another easy one to get along with! There aren't many toons that Toodles outright dislikes or doesn't get along with

Talks... a lot... but that's to be expected from a kid.

You learn everything and nothing. The kid who's got dirt on everyone but doesn't have the mind to realize that it's dirt. Drops it randomly in conversation and moves on to something else like it was nothing... it's a little funny..

BOBETTE

Wastes no time at all in trying to become your friend- what's your favorite color? Music? When did you join Gardenview? What's your gimmick? She wants to know!

She's definitely gonna give you an extra gift this year for Christmas! Think of it as a "welcome to Gardenview!" Housewarming style gift! She WILL be watching you like a hawk to figure out what you like... as well as lightly interrogating everyone else for ideas

Genuinely so easy to befriend her. Not very judgy, very cheerful.. come decorate with her

GINGER

Oh... shy... she's shy... she doesn't avoid you but the first few conversations with you is... dry. Awkward. She really doesn't mean to make it that way it's just that she wasn't expecting to meet a new toon after being taken out of... where ever they keep the holiday toons

Not to mention you have a limited time to get her to warm up to you before having to put things on hold until next year... she really does try to befriend you or at least get to know you...!

Come join her with Cosmo and Sprout in the kitchen! You don't even have to bake..! You can help her decorate..! She becomes a ramblerer if you get her talking about an interest!

RUDIE

It's a Christmas miracle! A new toon has arrived! And he's definitely going to treat you like a gift... even if you were added to the toon roster before Christmas..

Not that he'd care all that much, a miracle is a miracle! And he's going to make sure you know his beliefs! Overall a joy to talk to even if he's caught up in the holidays

You reach your hand into the bag…

And feel something hard- almost wooden. Not splintery. Smooth with that faint grainy feel wood carved pieces have. It had no holes- except.. no, it did. Bottle necked and large enough to stick your thumb inside. Something cool and plastic-y grazed against your knuckles. Looped. Seven of them, alternating their rotations back and forth.

Whatever it was you didn't spend much more time studying the way it felt in your hand, not when everyone's eyes were burning into you like this- intense enough to make you squirm even as the Christmas music continued to drift through the air. Crashing more like… one would think they'd turn down the lobby's music after closing but alas here you were; stuck with trumpets clashing in your skull.

You also didn't mean to just about rip the item from the bag- whatever it was it seemed sturdy enough to handle the motion, though you weren't sure if you'd be able to handle being labeled as eager for drawing someone.

A whistle.

A long wooden whistle with a string of colored chains on the end, of which were still dangling loosely in the air.

You'd seen it be used several times as the train pulled into the tunnel, and when it wasn't being used it was set on the counter in Dyle's shop- which doubled as a control room for the train- where it belonged.

"That would belong to me," Dyle wasn't shy, he stepped right within range for his item to be returned.

Of all the toons to partake in the game, the pocket watch was probably the last on your mind- you didn't even realize he had left his shop to join the party. By the look in his eye he seemed… irritated. Like he had better things to do than to play some silly closet game-

"Now how'd that get in there!" Dandy pipped up- his voice hitched high as he let the bag of collected trinkets fall to the ground, slumped against his green leg.

The hands on Dyle's faces twitched in irritation as the flower returned the same energy half way hidden behind a smile- as if, despite planting the item there himself, he was disappointed that it had been drawn so quickly.

Maybe he had wanted the clock for himself… he sure was staring rather intensely at you like you had done something wrong by unknowingly picking the whistle.

"Don't play daft, Dandicus-" Dyle's hour hand clicked upwards before settling back down as he kept his tone smooth and even. The chain of the whistle had already been hooked to the belt of his pants, the wooden piece itself tucked securely in his side pocket. The clock looked like he was about to go on, but the flower cut him off before he could fully scold him for the act of theft.

"Come oooon it's only seven minutes," Dandy beamed up at him- the height difference was considerable. Even if the loop and chain was taken out of consideration, Dyle was definitely one of the taller toons walking around Gardenview. "How bad can seven minutes really be," But Dandy's voice sounded forced. You caught it, the way the corner of his mouth stretched and flashed the gritting of his teeth as he tried so hard to keep up that cheery facade.

"I'm already taking the burden of timing each round off of you, you can do this for me right?" He muttered quieter.

It wasn't the type of plea that would make Dyle back down- actually with your limited interactions and the one off chatter where he was the subject on conversation, Dyle didn't sound like the type of toon to back down once he's set his mind on something. He was committed to his choices and routine, and to an extent that was admirable.

But even the most resolute had their breaking points- and Dyle's happened to be a flower that knew how to really ramp up the charm to a sickening degree all in the name of "making friends"- Dandy really was a clone of his 2D self.

You got the feeling that Dyle didn't much care for Dandy all that much, but to unpack that right there felt overwhelming just to think about- thankfully you wouldn't have to as Dyle's face untensed in defeat.

"Very well."

And just like that the two of you made your way down to the gift shop- not Dandy's, rather the one that the holiday toons would set shop in when it was their time of year, the small room currently decorated in fake snow and posters plastering the Christmas toons all over. It smelled both cold and warm- dry and toasty with frost and cinnamon.

You did not go into the gift shop.

"If you don't mind," Dyle's steps slowed to a stop in the middle of the hallway, his hands neatly folded behind his back- polite. He looked polite. He didn't look all that irritated anymore, the half lidded look he normally held already returned as he lazily cocked his head to the side, aimed for his own gift shop. "I would prefer if we spend this… game…"

"Oh!" Your feet awkwardly caught on the floor, but nevertheless you still turned your body to the door of his shop. "'course,"

You've been to Dyle's shop, but you've never actually set foot inside of the space. You don't think any of the other toons have, and you were sure you've never seen one of the human staff step inside once the clock was fully settled inside and given everything he needed. Not even maintenance for his control panel, as far as you knew.

Granted it wasn't like you were constantly lingering around in the lobby catching who comes in and out of the locked up room- the door to which was currently being opened by the toon in front of you… almost endearingly, the end of the key in his hand was flower shaped.

You weren't exactly sure what you were expecting to see in the shop- sure you've seen the front that was displayed to everyone else. The shelves and panels- but you never could get a good look beyond that.

Regardless as your eyes settled on the almost sad looking layout you couldn't help but feel like you were just let in on this big secret.

Sure the walls looked a little bland and plain- the wallpaper broken up by a calendar and some posters- all train themed… all looking unofficial, more like concepts rather than something finalized. There were books too, Dyle had his own little personal secondary work space behind the wall of the main area. You were more than a little delighted to see that The Polar Express was currently neatly tucked on the upper corner of the desk. There was a second larger book set on the desk, with dozens of colored papers sticking up out of the top and sides- words too tiny for you to make out from here stretched along the pieces that were visible. Notes in similar condition littered the wall around the desk. Times and items were all that you could really read as you passed by.

The entire thing felt too intimate, even if this wasn't where Dyle retired for the night after closing. Surely he had his own room like the other toons- even if it wasn't a dedicated floor like the main toons had.

It was then that it finally clicked that Dyle, at least to the public eye, wasn't really a character many would actually know of.

"Would this be a bad time to say I wasn't expecting you to…" You nearly said partake in the celebrations but that sounded a little… "Participate in the game?" A glance is tossed to the toon as he shuts the door behind him and smoothed over his coat where he pushed the key back inside.

"Not that I'm not happy to see you- I feel like we never actually get the chance to see you around," It's tacked on, but you hoped the intention got across. "You seem like a nice toon to be around,"

His minute hand twitched. Done with it or amused it was hard to tell as he shifted the long chain on his head to the side as his eyes scanned across you- maybe he wasn't used to seeing someone standing in his space. You couldn't exactly blame him. He clearly doesn't expect guests. Not that the space was obscenely messy. It certainly looked lived in- almost comfortable, with its own neat mess. You could find yourself getting comfortable in his stool as you look over the collection of paper schedules that just about replaced the wallpaper. Red ink, you noticed. He used a red pen to write everything down.

"Dandicus stole my whistle," The hands on his face finally stilled and fell back in their usual positioning.

He wasn't a functional clock… though you figured it'd probably get inconvenient with having two clock hands rotating over your face-

Dyle continued on. "The holidays won't stop the train, we are still due for deliveries-"

"Even tonight when everything's closed off?" You leaned against the wall, mindful of where you pressed your shoulder against the chilled wall- careful to not push against any notes. "…Sorry I didn't mean to cut you off like that-"

Dyle's eyes lingered on you, still half lidded. Shiny. His entire face was shiny but there was a certain glimmer on his eye lids. "The only train due tonight has already passed,"

You only hummed softly. Then there was no reason for him to keep himself held up for the night- you wanted to say it, but instead chose to hold your tongue. "I mean even if you were… just getting your whistle back," Your eyes catch on the brightly colored chain that remained looped around his belt buckle like an anchor, now impervious to any swiping and theft that might take place again for the second time tonight. "It's nice to see you out and about, I feel like I never get to see you outside of… you know," Dyle's eyes follow the jerk of your head, the wall- the train's control panel on the other side just out of sight.

That wasn't a weird thing to say, was it?

It wasn't like you and Dyle were buddy buddy, the two of you hardly ever talked and it never lasted more than polite pleasantries- basic check ins and hellos to avoid silently passing by one another awkwardly.

You'd be open to having him as a friend, but would he feel the same?

It's not like Dyle ever turned away from any toon that had seeked him out for one thing or another- actually you'd seen him scoot closer to the counter whenever someone needed his opinion on something. Toon, staff, and visitor alike he was more than happy to give them his time.

…

This was really awkward.

"…I made cookies,"

Nice save. A wonderful save actually!

…

"Did you now?" Dyle finally broke the thick silence that had begun to layer itself between the two of you- you were just about to devote yourself to pretending to find the notes and papers on the wall interesting… though they were from what you saw out of the corner of your eye. The train really did come by a lot more often than you could ever imagine. Of course you knew it was responsible for taking the visitors too and from Gardenview, but you never fully let it sink in that it was how supplies were brought in-

"I did! And, even better? I didn't ruin them this time!" Finally something to latch onto instead of just lingering on nothing. "I do think they turned out pretty good, even Cosmo said they were good,"

As if that was really a feat, the cake was kind and supportive.

"You say that as if your baking isn't a treat,"

…Was that a pun?

Dyle continued on like you weren't having an internal battle about it. "I quite like your baking, actually… I hate to sound like I'm pressuring you, but I'd love for you to drop off some cookies every now and again,"

Oh!

Oh!

"Oh-" The back of your throat suddenly felt both dry and wet- thick. Funny how that works. "Did.. are you sure? I mean I wouldn't mind it, but I'm sure Cosmo's baking is a lot better than mine- Sprout's too. Definitely Sprouts,"

Oh God stop talking please.

It felt like your words were clinging into the ink covered notes on the walls- you wonder if this entire interaction would feel more natural if you were in the gift shop. If being within Dyle's space felt like a breach before then it felt like a break in- regardless of the fact that he had asked you to enter.

Finally your ram bling slowed to a stop, just in time to catch the way Dyle's softened.

The clock didn't look tired.

But he certainly looked worked down.

He looked soft, the way his head just slightly inched the side- hardly noticeable but you caught it, and the way his weight leaned to one side.

"If it's no trouble,"

"Oh it's no trouble at all! I'm just surprised you want my cooking, you know? I'm still… new to it…" The shoulder propping you around the wall tensed and flexed, rolling before finding its next comfortable placement. "Guess it'd give me an excuse to mess around in the kitchen again- I did see some baking chips that looked like they'd be fun to play with… never made anything with butterscotch before…" The last part was mumbled, but Dyle latched right onto it.

"I've never tried butterscotch, actually," The hands on his face curved with his smile. "I'd trust you with my first experience,"

Well now you had even more of an excuse to fiddle around in the kitchen-

"I think you'd like butterscotch- it's kind of like caramel, but… not? It's weird to explain but its nice," The meat of your cheek suctions itself to your teeth, fleshed rolled between your molars for a minute. "…Are you doing anything tomorrow?"

The train.

"…Asides from your usual thing, I mean," Flesh released from your teeth as you shifted once more against the wall. You probably should have taken a seat in the stool in front of his desk. Alas in your mind it felt too late to ask now, lest you make this entire interaction even more awkward right as it was starting to feel more… normal.

You follow Dyle's eyes as they dragged to the notes and schedules lined up on the wall next to you- and it was really only then that you noticed that you couldn't snoop if you tried.

It wasn't that Dyle's handwriting was messy. It was tightly packed and looped, ensuring just about every space and crevice of the papers was used- not only that some terms didn't make much sense to you. Personal terms and words for trains and transportation that you didn't really get- the only real words you could pinpoint were "cargo" "arrival" and some of the names of toons- requests, you think, judging by the fact that some of them looked like the baking goods you'd find within the kitchen every now and then.

It actually raised a few questions, like how much say Dyle had in what was delivered- but you'd have to grill him on that. Perhaps a conversation starter in the future, when you were dropping off your latest batch of baking to the clock.

"I may be available tomorrow evening, we've got a sizable drop off tomorrow morning but unloading shouldn't last past noon,"

Dyle smiled, and you couldn't help but return it.

"I could maybe get started on the dough early… let it chill a bit- Cosmo doesn't usually… chill his dough for long…" You mumbled. "Makes them spread too fast- crispier… I mean unless you like them crispy-"

"I fear… Cosmo tends to make his cookies a little too crispy…" Dyle lightly grimaced as his eyes flickered back to the door. Shuffling just outside. "I believe Dandicius is wondering where we've gone off too,"

"Aw man… has it really been seven minutes already?" You mumbled as you just about peeled yourself from the wall- wobbling before regaining yourself- "I felt like we were finally just getting somewhere, I was actually starting to enjoy myself-" The words catch in your throat. It wasn't that you didn't enjoy his company, you did- but…

Dyle smiled.

"Well, I'm sure you'll be pleased to know that by the time you drop off your cookies I'll be free for the remainder of the day,"

You snatch another glance to the notes, and with some effort you could… not very confidently say that tomorrow didn't look all that open.

"If not, I suppose pushing off the less dire tasks for the following day wouldn't hurt," Dyle bundled and loosely wrapped the chain around his arm as he stepped towards the room's door. "I'll make the time for you,"

And with that the door was pulled opening, revealing Dandy standing right there with his hand raised and ready to knock. "Last I checked this ain't the holiday gift shop," He grinned.

It didn't look like it reached his eyes as you tried to look over Dyle's shoulder. Honestly the flower looked a little flushed at the revelation, like some big grand rule was broken for picking a different room to talk and waste time in. Regardless, he only spluttered as you spoke up.

"I don't think you specified which gift shop- you just said…" You trailed off as Dandy's dark eyes snapped to your face. He stared. Hard.

Unreadable.

Like he was dissecting you on the spot to try to figure out what all you and Dyle had gotten up to during the seven minutes you were left alone together- something possessive twitched in his brow before he suddenly leaned back with a huffed laugh. "I guess I didn't! Well, now you know!"

It was probably for the best the interaction didn't last much longer after that- whatever problem Dandy had with either of you left the back of your throat feeling off. You weren't sure if you'd prefer him to be upset at Dyle or not- his wrath aside. You'd never really seen the flower like that, but-

"I'd be delighted if you could show me which of the cookies are yours, I'd like to have a sample before I commit to an entire personal batch," Dyle's soft and smooth voice reeled you back into the moment. Grounding, soft. It lacked the tense undertone of Dandy's clipped voice- he even offered his arm for you to take, and gently you took it; fingers gingerly placed along his sleeve rather than fully wrapping around.

Was this… normal for an acquaintance?

Maybe Dyle was just old fashioned and polite- he wouldn't be the first toon to be like that.

That's what you told yourself as you allowed Dyle to walk you back to the party- with you ignoring the double takes from the other toons as you stepped up to the treat table, before pointing out which cookies you had made.

RODGER

He's a detective, of course he's going to be doing everything to try to figure out who left the letter...! And boy is that toon relentless in his desire to soothe his curiosity...!

That is... after he realizes that it's a love letter. He seems like the type to be a little dense when it comes to romance. Or feelings in general... not that he's cold or unfeeling he just has a habit of focusing on details and logic...! But once he does realize what the letter implies...? Oh he is sitting at his desk reading it over and over again

Each interaction with him feels like an interrogation. Good luck trying to keep your secret for long

GLISTEN

Well of course he's got a secret admirer! Who wouldn't think he's at least a little cute...! Don't mind how he's clutching the letter in his room behind closed doors and almost obsessively reading the lines over and over and committing them to memory

He... hangs the letter up by his vanity so it's the first thing he sees every morning when he does his make up... it actually gives him a boost

He does talk about the letter openly, especially if it's around the valentines season. He does it both to brag but to also subtly try to catch any reactions that might point to who wrote it

SHELLY

Oh she is over the moon once she reads the note...! But also... confused.. who sent this? She can understand why they didn't leave a signature but the curiosity is eating her alive!

She keeps the letter tucked away safely somewhere in her room so it doesn't get lost. She may have a knack for paleontology but the interest has left her with a keen eye...! It's not the usual subject but she's going to study the handwriting..!

Shes... not very sneaky in comparing the letters writing to everyone elses... or asking around... she's trying, okay...!

ASTRO

Oh... a letter... he rereads it later after he's better rested and realizes it's a *love* letter... he's not very emotive but his face does shift just slightly into surprise. Widened eyes, mouth in a line...

He keeps the letter on him either tucked under his hat or in his blanket. If he has so much as an inkling of an idea of who wrote it he's going to whip it out and ask... he's forward but he doesn't want to beat around the bush with something like this