#datp

I don't have a preference for the context, but it would be equally interesting to see it in the Perfect Nothing AU. Can you imagine? Rumors about Tak's incognito identity starting a secret relationship with young Membrane, appearing on the cover of one of those old celebrity gossip magazines along with a photo of them taken out of context, stirring up the press, the paranormal community, and Zim and Gaz themself

I also find interesting the dynamic between Dib and Tak, that being very unhealthy and manipulative in nature

I usually play around the concept of Dib having trust issues after his first encounter with Tak, since the girl pretended to be his friend only for her own interests for dominating the world. I wonder if Tak was one of the first people to hang out with Dib frequently, and what could have crossed Dib's mind when he didn't know the truth, perhaps he was very hopeful of his new found friend that not only believed him but also saw Zim as an enemy as well (And it's worth noting how Dib was quite skeptical of Zim's accusations against Tak, going as far as accusing Zim of being jealous)

Perfect Nothing Dib believes that his imagination invented the whole alien stuff about Tak; that it was a pathetic attempt at making himself feel better by antagonizing Tak with the whole alien in disguise thing, that the reality is that he was hurt by a mean girl.

This mindset only facilitates Tak's work at getting close to him once again (under a different name, of course); Zim is not considered a reliable source for anyone, not even for Dib, but she has to stay careful about him and Gaz. Dib is not stupid either so it takes time to gain his trust, yet she gains it a lot faster than Zim, creating this rivalry that you mention. Tak will do everything in her power to sabotage Zim and keep Dib by her side, and of course this annoys Zim deeply because Tak taunts him a lot about it, saying things like "he would look adorable with a leash in my hand." Attacking Tak is not an option either because then the crazy one would be Zim and would get him in trouble.

The thing with Tak is that she is one of the few people to recognize Dib's determination and strenght, being the reason why she sees Dib worthy of her as a tool, or an ally (or rather, a pet). As an Irken she is very disgusted by any other alien species, believing that they are inferior beings and must be treated as such. Keeping contact with humans repulses her, but Dib becomes an exception to her rule for the same reason mentioned, looking down to him like he's an intriguing animal. Same goes for Gaz, who may be the one to actively expose Tak and stop her plans in order to protect her family and the planet —they may have a stronger dynamic too—.

I'm not sure if it will ever reach the public, but it will be noticeble for their coworkers, maybe even Membrane showing curiosity over Tak and mistaking her for a romantic interest of his son, something that Dib denies frequently, but he will admit the trust he has on her (something that he will regret further down the story).

Just expect Zim trying to win Dib by doing things that are out of his comfort zone, I want it to be tense and fun

I emptied my brain with this one pfft thank you for the request!! 🩷🩷