#ler!frank

Frank shivered in the coolness of the post office, his thicker sweater vest doing little to keep him warm. Snow fell in delicate flakes outside, leaving little water dots against the window on contact. The insect lover would much rather be snuggled up in blankets in front of a warm fire, but he promised Eddie that he’d be patient. He was regretting that promise.

“Alright, darlin’! All done with sortin’ tomorrow’s letters. Ready to head in?” A warm fuzz entered Frank’s chest when he heard that southern drawl. Not enough to distract him from the crisp air, of course, but it helped. “Absolutely; it’s much too cold in this office. You really must get a nicer heater for this room.” 

The gray-skinned puppet moved to his partner’s side, a small smile gracing his lips when Eddie raised his arm and pulled him in close. He was so warm; Frank could’ve stayed there for the rest of the season.

Eddie just chuckled, unlocking the thick door that separated his living quarters from the post office. He couldn’t understand why Frank was so cold; the southern man just had a thin flannel over his usual postal attire. He led Frank over to an armchair, handing him a blanket and turning to the fireplace. “C’mon, freezer-bug. I’ll get the heat goin’.” 

That got an eye-roll and a few mumbles from the logical puppet. Freezer-bug? It was snowing outside! Eddie was just too cozy, with his soft belly, warm eyes, tender embrace, rich voice…oh dear. Frank felt his cheeks heat up, adding to the fuzzy feeling. Heat sounded nice, though he’d prefer cuddles.

Soon, the heater whirred, struggling to warm both the post office and his home. Frank wrapped the blanket snugly around his shoulders, trying to warm up. He could’ve used a squishy teddy-bear right about then. “You coming, dear?”

Eddie shook his head, lifting the lankier puppet up and placing him in his lap. He laid the blanket across both of them, rubbing Frank’s back to try and warm him. The long day of sorting mail and delivering packages that morning had him all tuckered out; soon, his eyes were drifting closed, his arms going slack on his partner’s back.

Normally, Frank would’ve just let him sleep and enjoyed the closeness. He had been waiting for cuddles all day, however, and had been teased for shivering. It was obviously lighthearted, but Frank was nothing if not a creature of spite. Some payback was in order.

Frank’s nimble fingers kneaded into his partner’s plush belly, squeezing and poking at the center. Eddie giggled sleepily, moving one hand to swat at the ticklish feeling. His partner had to stifle a chuckle as he dodged the hand, squeezing and poking at the squishy area above his waist.

A groggy yelp burst from the red-haired man, his hands shooting to grab Frank’s wrists. The gray puppet wasn’t about to let that slide; he shoved at Eddie’s tangerine hands, continuing to tickle the wonderful pudge. “D-DAHAharlihin’?! Whahahat’re yaha dohohoin’?!”

“Well, you’ve made me wait for affection all day, and you *were* being rather mean about my shivering. I need to get some kind of revenge, dear. You understand, yes?” Frank moved his wiggly fingers to Eddie’s ribs, sending the man into a fit of laughter.

“I-IHIHIHI’M SAHAHARRY! IHI’LL GIHIVE YA AHAHALL THE CUHUHUDDLES YOUHU WAHAHANT!” Frank just chuckled, holding on tight and teasing his partner’s ribs. He loved the sound of Eddie’s laughter best. It was so bright, rich and full; such an easy thing to melt at. For the moment, though, he was strong.

Frank’s fingers moved to tug at the fabric of his partner’s tucked-in shirt. The soft fabric gave easily, exposing the soft felt of his tangerine belly. “Ah, what a sight. This tum of yours looks awfully cozy, Mr. Dear. I hope you don’t mind~” Before Eddie could protest any further, eight cold fingers were scribbling on his poor belly.

“F-FRAHAHAHANK! NAHAHAT THAHAT!” Of course he minded! Eddie normally refrained from using Frank’s first name, per their little habit; pet names or Mr. Frankly was what he stuck with. He couldn't help it, it tickled! The cool temperature somehow made everything twice as sensitive.

Frank gasped, letting his dramatic side take over. “*Frank*? When did we get so unprofessional?! You’ve *insulted* me, Mr. Dear. This cannot go unpunished.” *Oh, what a drama king*…

He paused for a second, hovering his hands above Eddie for a moment. Eddie was about to whine, his protests dying in his throat when he saw where those wiggling fingers were heading. His hips were horrible, and everyone in the neighborhood knew it. *Especially* Frank. Oh boy… 

“D-Daharlin’ no! Wahahait, lehet’s talk ‘bout thihis! Ya don’t gotta- GYEEAAAH!” Frank let his hands touch down on Eddie’s hips, giving the love handles a firm squeeze. The postman squealed, jolting so hard he almost sent Frank flying. It didn’t deter the entomophile; he only dug in further.

The poor postman was an incoherent mess, sputtering through his loud, boisterous laughter. “F-FRAHAHAHA! IHI CAHAHA- IHI’M SAHAHARRY! YEHER KIHIHIHILLIN’ MEHEHE!” He bucked and thrashed, his slick red hair quickly becoming a mussed-up mess. So much for staying sharp…

“Oh, come now. Your hips can’t possibly be *that* ticklish. It’s illogical.” Frank smirked, kneading his partner’s hips and drilling his thumbs into the plush skin. Eddie flailed as he cackled, trying and failing to do anything but sit there and toss his head back with laughter. “Then again, you have always been a bit of an anomaly. I guess southern gentlemen are exempt from that rule.”

The tickle-drunk postman giggled and panted, his belly quivering as he tried to regain his composure. A beautiful red hue decorated his face, pairing wonderfully with his sunset-colored felt. “Ohoho gohosh… Geheez, Mr. Frankly. Thahat was mihighty mean…”

Eddie drummed his legs against the chair, losing his marbles over the tickling. It was so bad! Frank didn’t normally go that far with his tickles, but he definitely was that time.

Eddie’s hand tapped at Frank’s arm, signaling that he really couldn’t handle any more. The lanky puppet immediately stopped, moving to rub his partner’s belly soothingly. He didn’t really need to, but it felt right; plus, his hands were still cold.

Frank huffed, rolling his eyes and snuggling up to Eddie. “Oh, hush. You know you enjoyed it, *dearest*~” He felt his cheeks heat further, the butterflies in his stomach going wild. The man blamed Frank’s insect obsession.

Even though he was tired, he wrapped his arms around Frank and held him close. Any thoughts of moving to the bedroom were gone, the armchair and Frank seeming as comfortable as ever. Eddie sighed, relaxing into the plush fabric and playing with the other puppet’s hair. “Whooo…got me plum tuckered, darlin’. Was there s’posed to be a point to all’a that?”

Frank just shrugged, getting comfortable on his warm “bed” for the night; time had really flown. “It seemed enjoyable, and it absolutely was. Besides, all that laughing warmed you up. Now I’ve got a nice warm bed…” The puppet had no shame, smiling softly and curling up even further.

Eddie huffed at his reasoning; only Frank… He was about to do the same until a fun idea popped into his head. A little retribution would be nice, and his partner *was* still complaining about being cold. Even if he was tired, the red-haired man was ready to give Frank a taste of his own medicine.

Pretending to doze off again, Eddie wrapped his arms around Frank and laid his hands on the bug lover’s sides. Frank thought nothing of it, assuming his dear would be too tired for revenge; oh, how wrong he was. Right as Frank’s eyes closed, Eddie struck. He wiggled his fingers into the gray puppet’s soft sides, using his arms to hold him tight.

Frank squeaked, a pink glow showing on his gray cheeks. “D-dehehearest! Ihi thohohought youhu wehehere tihihired!” The postman just smiled fondly, a gleam of mischief in his warm eyes. “Oh, I am. I reckon some payback’s in order before my nap, don’tcha think?” His tangerine-colored fingers gently scribbled and squeezed along Frank’s sides, pulling giggle after giggle from him.

The butterfly enthusiast flapped his hands, Eddie’s strong arms restricting any other movement. His partner cooed at the stims, granting himself one small kiss to the top of Frank’s head. “Yer adorable, darlin’. Flappin’ your hands like a lil’ butterfly~” 

Frank had to resist the urge to melt at the kiss, opting for more fruitless squirming. He tried to keep the gag going, but the puppet *could not* take what he dished out. “M-mihister- daharn it, Eddiehehehe!” 

The southern man gasped, a wide smile taking over his features; he’d never had the best poker face. “And you yelled at me and everythin’! Look’it you, callin’ me by my first name. Yer lucky I’m such a nice fella.” Eddie teased each of Frank’s ribs, making the intellectual fellow squeak and squeal. It was so unfairly gentle…

“Dehehearest! Plehehease!” The radiant blush against Frank’s gray felt was honestly adorable to Eddie. He could look at it all day, the lovely sound of his giggles pairing perfectly. However, he knew that the other puppet was tired, and that they could both seriously use a nap. Reluctantly, Eddie slowed to gentle traces, drawing small shapes across Frank’s sides and lower back.

“Ohoho dear…thahank you.” Frank took a few giggly breaths, melting into the gentle touch. “No problem, buggy-boo. Now you get your nap.” The postman kissed his head, adjusting the blanket and whispering sweet nothings into his ear. 

Frank was out in seconds, the warmth of his partner’s embrace and the slight exhaustion from giggling sending him straight to dreamland. Eddie chuckled fondly as he watched him doze off; it was too cute.

Frank carefully crawled over to sit on Eddie’s thighs. They had not forgotten the ‘cruel’ attack that had brought on this late afternoon nap session. Frank was going to make good on his earlier promise of revenge.

Eddie snored softly beneath him, his beautiful violet eyelids glimmered under the warm light of the reading lamp. His hair tousled from sleep. Frank tenderly combed his slender fingers through the soft, red locks, still slightly tacky from being slicked into place. Eddie prided himself on looking his very best, he certainly did.

Frank chuckled as their husband murred softly in his sleep from the affection, but there was mischief to be had. Their hand trailed down the back of Eddie’s head, skittering fingers against the nape of his neck and fluttering finger tips at the back of his ear.

The sleepy squirms and chuckles were delightful, Eddie’s hand weakly attempting to swipe at whatever was tickling at his neck. It was a delectable sight. The way his eyes crinkled and his nose scrunched up half-conscious laughter, his shoulders raising when Frank’s fingers caressed a soft spot.

Slowly but surely, Eddie was roused from his dreams. Eyes parting to look sleepily at whatever it was that was pestering him. It took him a little bit to notice Frank, the blissful smile on his face brightened upon making eye-contact.

“Oh, howdy darlin’. You sleep well?” He asked, slightly drowsy. Large hands rubbing the last minute sleepiness from his eyes. He gave a stretch of his full length, only then noticing Frank’s position. “Watcha up to, honeydew? Didn’t accidentally roll us over in my sleep again, did I?”

Oh he had no idea what he was in for.

Frank shook their head, fingers fussing with Eddie’s tie “Oh no, my love, nothing like that. I just wanted to make sure you were awake to appreciate what’s about to happen.”

“Wha’s that?”

“Tsk-tsk, forgotten already have we, dear heart?” Frank cooed “Here, let me give you a ‘friendly’ reminder.”

Slender fingers skittered just under Eddie’s armpits. There was a sharp squeal of surprise, Eddie’s arms clamping down to try and cease the assault on his sensitive underarms. Frank couldn’t help but snicker to themselves before pulling their hands free. “Does that answer your question?”

Eddie collected himself, hands poised now in a surrendering position in-front of his face. A face that was now split with a nervous, wobbly grin. “C-come on, darlin’, c-cahan’t we t-tahalk about this firhirst”

“I’m afraid you’re going to be too busy laughing to talk.” Frank said, now thoroughly ready to get started “I love you, but this has to happen.”

His hands latched on to Eddie’s sides, kneading at the soft plush like dough. Instantly he was rewarded with the sound of rich, deep bellows of laughter. But it was dammed up as Eddie clamped his hands over his mouth to muffle his own sounds.

Frank dug his fingers back into those ticklish armpits “You cover your mouth, mister, and I’ll tie your hands to the bedpost!”

Knowing for a fact that they would make good on the threat, Eddie quickly removed his hands. His deep laugh flowed freely again, now coupled with a flustered blush forming on his face “GAHAHAHA I’M SOHOHORHEEHEE!”

Frank cooed, hands trailed back to the sides of that plush tummy “Ah yes, now that’s what I want to hear. Don’t hold back on me, my love. I want to hear all that honey-glazed laughter of yours, and this time, it’s all just for me!”

The rest of the neighborhood always got plenty more than their share of his husband’s wonderful laugh and Frank found themselves more on the receiving end in recent events. But this time, oh this time, they were getting their fill. Eddie was all his; his Eddie and his beautiful, golden giggles were all Frank’s to enjoy.

Meanwhile, his husband’s face was flushed as red as his hair. It made those beautiful violet eyelids stand out so nice against his face. Especially when his eyes were squeezed tight with the force of his laughter.

“Now how about we go down the list of aaalll your soft spots, my dearest, hmmm? See if my notes are still accurate, very important to keep our findings up to date. But first...”

With a firm grip on the sides of Eddie’s shirt, Frank freed the fabric from it’s tucked state, already loosened from rustling about in his sleep. This left the expanse of that tangerine midsection exposed and all the more welcoming for methodical gray fingers to dive in at their leisure. Every spot was open as Frank so chose to attack it.

So they did!

“The others think they know you so well…” Frank began, fingers skittering across the broad surface of his husband’s plush tummy “...they all brag about how they have you in stitches. Especially that busybody caterpillar. But oh he could never hope to know what I know how to do. Such as..”

Their fingers began to scurry to all the familiar places. Soft, sensitive spots that only they had intimate knowledge of. “This spot right where your chest and belly meet, and how if I scribble my fingers just so, gets a fantastic squeal out of you. Or how these special spots right at the sides, almost parallel to each other, the smallest circles here have you curling in on yourself like a delightful little millipede. Now should my hands curl father to meet your back, yes just like this, there’s this lovely space just at the precipice of your sides that makes you giggle just beautifully should I wiggle my fingers like so, aaahh, there it is!”

Eddie’s form was a treasure map of wonderful spots that unearthed delicious belly-laughter when attended to properly. Laughter that was currently flowing freely under Frank’s touches.

“GAHAHAHAAHAAHAA~! OHOHO GOHOHOLLEEHEEHEE! WAITWAIT OHOHO GOHOHOSH BAHAAHAAHAA~!” Eddie stammered and babbled, his shoulders and chest bouncing with raw, unrestrained emotion. His hands, utterly clueless with what to do, alternated between gripping tight to the comforter or bunching up in fists in front of his face. His face was flushed an almost apple shade of red, more from teasing that anything.

They were one another’s greatest compliment, more in common than most would figure. But they were also each other’s greatest polarity, and that really did come in handy during little moments of playful intimacy like this. Each was a master at what made the other melt into their hands.

For Frank, that was playful, cooing teases; forcing them to confront the absurdity and silliness of what was happening. They thrived on order and what was ‘just so’. Eddie targeted his softest areas with that same playfulness, coupled with these honeyed teases in his rich, southern drawl that made Frank fall all to pieces.

Meanwhile, Frank’s precise, methodical touches, and pragmatic observations of their resulting reactions, utterly had Eddie bursting at the seams. The almost scientific remarks about his own ticklishness and reactions forced him to confront what was happening. Careful dissection of all his soft spots, reported back to him in real time, was a euphoric sensation of agony.

Fingers skittered and wiggled across the surface of that broad tummy “How am I doing dearest? Still up to date am I?”

“OHOHO PLEAHEEHEEHEESE! I CAHAHAN’T, BAHAAHAAHAAHAA~ Oh gosh, GAHAHAHAAHAAHAA~!”

“Hmm? Speak clearly Eddie, I need absolute answers, this is serious business.” Frank ‘scolded’, with a beaming smirk on his face “As your husband, it’s very important for me to me to be the utmost authority on your, ahem, sensitivity.”

“BUG PLEAHEEHEEHEESE, PLEASE IT-AHHAHAAHAA~! IHIT TIHICKLES! IT TICKLES!”

Frank chortled, it a cruel sort of devious chuckle. “Oh I bet it does. Nobody gets you like I do, isn’t that right…” A sly tease laced through his voice as he said “...Eddie-Bear?”

The bashful shock that graced his husband’s expression almost made Frank want to laugh and his heart explode.

Frank wasn’t one for a lot of nicknames, for the most part, they found them a little demeaning. They had a very small selection of more ‘sophisticated’ terms of endearment for Eddie. Meanwhile Eddie had a whole menagerie for them that he’d pepper in depending on which one came to mind. Oh he’d never admit it, but hearing those loving petnames from Eddie’s voice directed at him always threatened to make Frank’s heart turn to mush.

However, this particular, silly little term of affection stuck around. Specifically reserved for moments of intimacy like this. Eddie-Bear, his teddy-bear, his...Eddie. His Eddie.

“Yes, no one gets you like I do, do they? Take that lovely softness that sits over your belt.” Frank kneaded just above the squishy love-handles, relishing in Eddie’s laughter rising in pitch. “Of course, they’re irresistibly squeezable, but I know that if I just wriggle my fingers on the underside of that plumpness of yours…” as he spoke, he moved his hands to scribble his fingers on the undersides of that overhanging pudge “...you lose it.”

Lose it indeed!

Eddie’s belly-laughter grew hysterical and raucous, falling to pieces under Frank’s touches “OHO NAHAHAHAAWT THAT! PLEHEEHEEHEEHEESE! HAHAHAAHAAHAA~!”

Frank added occasional, gentle pinches to his scribbling. Eddie writhed wildly beneath him, but they held fast. They had gotten good at keeping a firm hold on someone, Julie could be quite the wiggler when you got a good spot.

With a bemused expression and a casual shrug, Frank said “Very well, my dear…” their hands rested just a moment. Just enough for their husband to catch a breath or two. Only to latch onto his hips, digging in their thumbs like their life depended on it. The resulting eruption of laughter was exactly what they had hoped for.

“NONOTTHERE!! BAHAAHAAHAAHAAHAA~! TOOHOO MUCH! GAHHAHAHA~!”

“Your poor hips are just so tender. Just like that soft heart of yours.” Frank looked them directly in the face “Now, who’s my Eddie-Bear?”

“OHGOSH! AHAHAHAA, MEEHEEHEE!” Eddie blubbered, his large hands covering his burning cheeks

“Ah-ah! I want to see that lovely, rosy face of yours.” Frank said, one hand reaching up to give a gentle swat to the offending appendages ruining his view. Once they had retreated, Frank cooed in response “Oh yes, there’s that smile. Now, lets try that again, who’s my Eddie-Bear?”

“MEEHEEHEE! IT’S MEEHEE!”

Frank’s hands alternated between squeezes and vibrating against Eddie’s hips “That’s right!” His hands jumped from Eddie’s waist back up to his plush tummy “My Eddie, my Eddie Dear and his beautiful laugh and his big heart…” Frank’s voice went soft “...my lovely teddy-bear”

With that, Frank ceased his attack. Resting his arms on that soft, spasming belly as Eddie caught his breath. His husband’s face was as red as his hair, and his bright eyes were practically glowing. There was this mirth that settled in the whole room, making everything seem so laced with love and playfulness.

“Woo...heehee..you got me good, lovebug.” Eddie finally spoke, propping himself up on his elbows, a giddy smile still plastered on his face.

“I warned you that I would.” Frank chided, giving him a light pinch on the nose “I think you rightly earned it.”

Eddie snorted, rubbing his nose after the attack “Alright you, don’t be cheeky.” He seized Frank under their armpits and pulled them into a tight bear hug, trapping their arms in the process. “I think I earned a lil love for takin’ that.”

Not being able to hardly wiggle, Frank was defenseless as his face was assaulted with kisses and nuzzles. One large hand kept a gentle grasp on their neck, to keep from turning their head, just so Eddie had unfettered access to pepper kiss after kiss on those blasted pink cheeks Frank had. Curses for having such an easy to target spot.

After thoroughly flustering his husband, Eddie finished his affectionate assault by rubbing noses, it was one of those little gestures they picked up and it just stuck.

Eddie’s grip had loosened, allowing Frank to rest their arms on his broad shoulders. Curling the locks of red hair in their slender hands, Frank said “Well, we slept past lunch, so how about we treat ourselves to dinner. What do you say, dear heart?”

A large hand carded through Frank’s dark hair, trailing down to rest against his cheek “Well I think that sounds right fine, lovebug.”

With a kiss, Frank climbed off the bed and readjusted his clothes. He detested sleeping in his day wear, but unplanned naps could be excused. “I ought to have gotten you worse for having your shoes on the bed” They said tauntingly.

Eddie glared playfully “Why you saucy…” He didn’t finish his sentence, before marching up to his husband and tossing him over his shoulder.

“Eddie! Put me down!” Frank tried to scold him through a laugh.

“Not gonna happen darlin’!” Was all he got in response, fingers scribbling at the backs of their thighs, electing a chorus of snort-filled laughter and wiggling as Eddie carried them out into the living room.

The evening was cloudy, a misty haze turning the sky above a sleepy orange. Every neighbor had their own way of celebrating the small victory of getting through the week. Rather it be a special show or indulging in their favorite hobby but for Frank and Eddie, nothing was better than curling up with a home cooked meal as they talked in their kitchen. Though there were little dishes, they still worked together to get them done. Chores with the people you love always made it more fun anyways. Their bed, which was usually tidy, had become a sort of nest. Pillows sat against the walls, the tangle of blankets created. In the middle is where the couple sat, leaning against each other peacefully. They sat shoulder to shoulder, a blanket wrapped around them as they casually talked about their day. Eventually, however, as the night went on, gentle conversations and chuckles turned to sleepy giggles. Eddie had scooped up his partner by under his arms and held them closer to his chest, nuzzling his forehead into Frank’s. The butterfly expert smiled tenderly, his arms wrapping around his shoulders, hands resting gently against his back while their long fingers traced lazy patterns across the small of his back. Eddie sighed happily, his eyelashes dancing as his eyes fluttered closed. Frank had to just take a moment to admire him. The usual rain cloud never was the type to get all mushy. they were always looking for facts, making sure things were “just so”.  Frank Frankly was, well, frank. But something about Eddie helped them forget about that and lighten up, sometimes at least. A sly smile stretches across their  lips as one of their hands runs down the mailman’s side, their  fingers working against the fabric in light, jittery motions. Soft titters filled the silence as Eddie’s arms squished against his sides. A soft dusting of rose began coloring his cheeks as his eyes opened. His subtle dimples now more pronounced as his lopsided smile grew. 

“Frahahank.. I was sleepin’.” frank only shook their head, continuing the gently skittering over the plush. 

“I don't see what’s stopping you from doing so.” they replied simply, resting their cheek on the man’s head, pressing their face into the soft mass of his strawberry red hair. While Eddie usually kept his hair tidy, it was alway a bit of a shaggy mess during the evening hours. Frank hand always found it cute in some way but has always been a bit too shy to say it aloud. So, they showed it in different ways like tussling it while the poor dear was still half asleep or even helping him brush it out when needed. Frank had never been good with words and always struggled to say their feelings, especially when it was important. There just never seemed like there was a word powerful enough to describe how they felt. Maybe that's why they had been drawn to Eddie. Along with his big heart and gentle southern twang, he always knew what to say. As the butterfly expert became lost in thought, their hand slowly drifted across the mailman’s stomach, causing giddy giggles to slip from his lips. Shyly, Eddie tilted his head, burying his face into the crook of his partner’s neck, causing them to giggle childishly. As a sort of “payback” Frank sank down into the covers, pressing their face against the mailman’s cheek before peppering gentle kisses onto the subtle freckles that dotted his face. The gentle dusting became a stubble bloom as Eddie melted into the affection, practically giggling himself silly as he just pulled his usually prickly companion closer. 

“Ahah- H-Honestly, darlihhihihin- what has gotten into you~?” He asked playfully, not really minding the fact that the tables had turned. Usually, he was the one to initiate the playful mood to either get his beloved away from his books or just to see their smile. It was always special to see his loved ones happy. Especially his Frank. After a moment,the kisses paused, just so that they could answer. 

“Why Eddie, is it so odd for me just to show how much I love you?” They leaned closer, brushing their nose against Eddie's, who only chuckled sheepishly.

“N-No. not one bit… just know- Ah will be gettin you in the mornin’~.”

He teased, his own fingers fluttering up into Frank's neck, practically beaming as the slimmer puppet’s shoulders rose up , a hand cupping against his. 

“Eeheddie! Hum. well. Well. well just have to see, won't we~?” butterflies crawled up Eddie's nerves again as Frank’s wriggling fingers against his belly and tender kisses started up again. Neither were sure when they eventually did fall asleep, all they knew was that they had each other and that would always be more than enough for them.                        

Frank took his spot in the chair and began “That little rascal painted my tomatoes blue! And then when I confronted him about it, he made a sly remark of ‘I thought they matched you better that way.’ Oh I could just..” Frank thumped his fists on the table.

But before they could get too worked up, a very gentle hand came down on his back. The large fingers scratched and rubbed soothingly. Frank crossed their arms and dropped their head down on top in a frustrated huff, grumbling irritatedly.

“I’m sorry, darlin’. Yeah, the little guy’s been a bit of a rascal the last couple days…” Eddie said, rubbing the back of his neck with a hand. Frank looked up at him, a little surprised “...spooked me good when I delivered his mail yesterday, popped up from behind the fence. Didn’t even notice him, he’s so small” He chuckled, Wally wasn’t normally such a trouble-maker. “I was so caught off guard I dropped my bag, letters everywhere.”

Frank snorted, Eddie too it seemed. They made a growl, their expression still furrowed “Oh I wish I could wipe that smug little grin off his face!”

“Well, I don’t know about that, honeybug. I would hate to do anything mean to the little guy, just maybe return the laugh a lil.” Eddie said gently, trying to maintain some kind of ‘voice of reason’. He had such a patient heart, it took a lot and significantly more malicious intent to get Eddie actually mad at someone.

Frank’s expression suddenly began to shift “Perhaps…” They toyed Eddie’s wording around in their head.

The two met each other’s gaze. A very familiar look crossed their features, as they both connected what the other was thinking. It was a shared smile of mischievous intent, one that consistently sent the others of the neighborhood into a nervous panic. Eddie chuckled and asked “What’s the plan, darlin’?”

Frank’s smirk darkened and he said, leaning back in his chair “Get him over here tomorrow, after your rounds. We’ll give that little rascal something to laugh about.”

Wally merrily made his way down to the post office the next afternoon. He’d gotten a lovely letter from Eddie telling him there was a delivery for him at the office that he needed to pick up personally. It sounded important.

Upon arriving to the large building, he pushed open the door and stepped inside. It was a cool refresher from the summer heat outside, much too warm to even wear his cardigan outside. So he had contended with just the button-down dress shirt.

Quite a surprise to step in and see Frank sitting at Eddie’s desk, reading a book. Their slim, grey fingers flicked the pages as they combed through the material.

“Oh, hello Frank, what are you doing here?” Wally greeted them kindly, approaching the front of the desk.

“Oh I was just waiting for Eddie to get back, with you.” He added the last part, looking up at Wally sharply.

“You aren’t still mad about yesterday, are you Frank?” There was more remorse in his voice than anything. Maybe he really didn’t mean to go so far. But it was too late for regrets now.

“Mad? Oh no, Wally.” Frank spoke, setting their book down. “I’ve a much better idea in mind than being mad at you.” They stood up, a glint in their eye that stirred a familiar sensation in Wally’s belly. Frank only ever got that glint when someone was about to be victim of a very specific type of silliness. It wasn’t ‘safe’ to stay here.

He quickly turned to run, only to be caught bya pair of large arms before he could even get near the door.

“Oh no you don’t!” Eddie said, scooping the little guy up and tossing him over his shoulder. “You ain’t goin’ nowhere you little rascal.”

Wally barely struggled, going limp in Eddie’s grasp. When they reached Frank, he carefully slung Wally off his shoulder and set him on the floor. Clasping him around the middle before he had a chance to dart, pressing his back to Eddie’s chest. Finally, with one hand, Eddie seized both of the smaller hands and lifted them above their owner’s head.

Now that the little puppet was firmly in one spot, Frank came around the desk to join them. He sat down on his knees in front of Wally. Almost uncanny how intimidating Frank could be when you knew he was mad at you. Esspecially when you were caught between him and Eddie. That was a spot nobody ticklish wanted to be in, mostly.

“So, Wally Darling, any last words?” Frank asked, a smug sneer on his face.

“This’ll be your only chance to talk, Walls.” Eddie said, free hand teasing at one of Wally’s ears, causing little snickers to slip out “Because once we start, you’re gonna want to save your breath.”

“And as a preface, all submitted apologies must be paid in the accepted form, in full.”

“What, heehee, quit! What form ihis thahat?”

Frank’s wicked grin never faltered as he raised his hands, gray fingers wriggling in Wally’s direction “Giggles.”

Before Wally could even offer a proper response. The fingers came straight to his armpits, thoughtfully scratching at the space bellow the hollows. The thin dress-shirt did little to guard against the onslaught. Apparently the talking was over.

Wally squealed, distracted and unprepared for the attack. “EEeek! Eeeheeheeheehee, pleaheeHEEHEEheehese, no tihickling!”

“Aw come on, gigglebox.” Eddie said, his voice warm against Wally’s ear “You love being tickled.” His free hand moved down to his sides, fingers digging where his ribs would be. The little artist burst into new peals of laughter, his back slightly arching.

“More upwards, dear heart. The spot below his armpits makes him shriek.” Frank said, matter-of-factually.

Eddie gave a nod, following the instruction. He couldn’t help but smile fondly at how Wally did in fact gave a shriek of tickly shock as promised. Frank’s fingers had wandered upwards to attack the hollows directly. The slender, gray digits digging giggles of the highest pitch out of the sensitive felt.

“PLEAHEEHEEheese! GEEHEEheehee! DON’T! Aaiieeheehehaahaa~! Stohahahp!”

“Not a chance you little scoundrel, you’re done for”

“I hope you’re enjoying the laughs, snicker-doodle!”

Frank and Eddie were both deadly ticklers on their own. But when put together, they were a formidable, terrifying force.

Frank was methodical and precise. He seemed to take every bit of the process as seriously as he did everything else, only with his own devious enjoyment in mind. Every tickle spot was carefully dissected and most effective tactics discovered to ensure maximum ticklishness. Frank operated with this spine-tingling efficiency, only coupled by the fact that his tickle-monster was most easily activated via annoyance.

A tickler who not only found where and what got you laughing the hardest, but also tickled with a vengeance in mind.

Frank’s fingers tweaked and pinched at Wally’s upper sides. Sharp squeaks and shrill squeals poured from Wally’s mouth as he tried to hide his face in one of his arms.

“You see, my love, quick, fast pinching in this area is what’s most effective. Oh and if you notice carefully, he twitches aggressively the further back my hands go. Should I wiggle my fingers right where his back starts, like this, it makes him squirm a good deal, and when I vibrate my fingers rapidly…”

Like a professional at their craft, Frank carefully explained all the little ways to make Wally howl with unparalleled laughter. All while his loving husband carefully followed along, asking clarifying questions a little too happily for Wally’s comfort.

“Hold him tight a moment, I need to fetch something.” Frank said, standing up “Don’t give him any leeway, dear heart.”

“No worries, honeybug, he’s not goin’ nowhere.” Eddie replied, carefully mimicking the way Frank had lightly pinched and prodded up and down Wally’s ribs, one handed in his case. Enjoying the way it made the little guy squeak and squeal with shrill giggles.

Frank, meanwhile, carefully pawed through the second drawer at Eddie’s desk. Taking his time to enjoy the bubbling laughter as he did so. After leisurely finding what he was looking for, he stood up, stretching comfortably. When he made his way back to the duo on the floor, he crossed his arms and leaned forward to address his husband directly.

“Eddie, switch places with me, I’ll take his arms.”

“Alright, lovebug.”

Frank seized Wally’s wrists as they transitioned spots with Eddie. Wally craned his neck to try and see what Frank had grabbed out of Eddie’s desk, only to snap back when the postman settled down in front of him. The gentle, but knowing smile on his face was enough to get the quivers going in Wally’s belly again. He lifted his hands up, wiggling his fingers teasingly, causing a wild fit of giggles. “Haha! I don’t even gotta touch ya to getcha gigglin’, lil fella.”

There wasn’t even an opportunity for Wally to argue before he felt a gentle whisk against his ear. He suddenly knew what Frank had.

“Frank, no not that!” Wally squeaked.

“Oh it’s just a paint brush Wally. Why the fuss,..” Frank said, he had taken Wally’s ascot off and used it to wrap his wrists up, so his hand was free to grasp his fingers “...you love these.” The soft bristles glided across the sensitive surface of Wally’s little palms. The eruption of laughter was fantastic.

While his focus was on Frank, he failed to notice a pair of hands reach towards his sides. It was too late when the fingers began to wiggle against the sides of his belly, causing him to jump. “Such a ticklish little gigglebox.” Eddie cooed.

Eddie’s tickling was as warm and soft as he was. He was always so gentle, wanting his hapless victim to have as much fun as he was having. But he was as methodical and precise as Frank, and he learned quickly. Unlike Frank’s narrow fingers, Eddie had large hands that could span the whole length of Wally’s torso. But how and where Eddie tickled wasn’t the worst part, it was what he said.

“Quite a laugh there, little guy! It really mus’ tickle somethin’ terrible.”

“You’re so soft ‘round the middle, Wally-doll, almos’ too perfect not to tickle! And those cute lil faces you make...you’re jus’ so precious. Jus’ the cutest little guy in the whole neighborhood.”

Eddie’s teases were heart-meltingly sweet. Sugary compliments and saccharine teases, all coated with that honeyed southern drawl that he spoke so effortlessly. His accent had a way of making even the stubborn, blush like blooming roses.

For those sensitive to flattery, it was enough to kill.

“*snort*GOOHOODNESS! YEE*snort*AAHHAHAHAHAHA! STAH-AH*snort*AHHAAHAAHAAHAA~!”

Eddie’s fingers softly dug into Wally’s tummy, while Frank’s brush swirled around his sensitive palms. Both spots were horribly sensitive on their own. Having them both attacked at once was causing the little artist to start to crumble. His thoughts were starting to blur together in one giddy fog.

Eddie arched his back slightly, in a small sign of discomfort. “Back sore, dear heart?”

“Yeah, he’s so little I gotta hunch to reach him, it’s startin’ to kill my back.”

Frank thought carefully as he swished his brush along Wally’s palm. Then, an idea struck him, he looked to Eddie and said “Hang him”

Eddie obviously understood what that meant, somehow. Because he gave a firm nod. He grabbed Wally by the ankles and Frank seized him under the armpits. They hoisted the weary little artist up, and carefully rested his lower legs over Eddie’s shoulder. A firm hand clasped down on his shins, he was going nowhere.

“No too heavy, is he dearest?”

“Oh no, darlin’. He’s awful light actually.”

Frank gave a nod, moving to stand at Wally’s feet. Then he began to undo the laces of his shoes. Poor Wally hadn’t even the strength to wiggle at this point. Once his socks were slipped off, now he was admittedly nervous again.

“F..Frank...pleaheeheese, I’ve...I’ve learned my lesson...honest.” Wally pleaded softly. At the back of his mind however, there was something desperately hoping Frank would ignore him. Something that was utterly and deeply thrilled at being at the mercy of such relentless tickling.

“Good. You can fill us in on what you’ve learned once we’re thoroughly done.” Frank said, matter-of-factually.

It was then that a single finger slid up his left foot from heel to toes. Wally jolted. A jolt that quickly turned into wiggles and giggles when that same foot was suddenly tormented by three scribbling fingers. Then a second hand turned to his right, mimicking the motions.

“GEEHEEHEEHEEHEE *snort, NOHO *snort* PLEAHEEHEEHEESE! AH! NONO! NOTTHETOHOHOES *snort*!”

Wally squealed and squirmed as the slender fingers teased at his wiggling toes. Scribbling at the base and sliding between them to scratch at the soft felt.

“Aww, you got ticklish tootsies, gigglebox?” Eddie teased, a firm grip on Wally’s shins, other hand gently clasps over his abdomen to keep him from getting too wiggly. Mischievously, his fingers began wiggling at the side of Wally’s tummy.

“AIIEE*snort*HAHAHAHA, *snort* EDDHIEHEEHEEHEE! DOHOHON’T! OHHO GOOHOODNESS *snort*, AHHAAHAAHAAHAA, TIHIHICKLES! *snort**snort*”

“His left side is the more ticklish one, dearest.” Frank was a little too smart for his own good more often than not.

After Frank had taken his due time with those wiggly toes, he came back around to stand at Eddie’s shoulder. Comfortably reclining against his husband. “Catch your breath now, because this last stretch will be the worst and there will be no holding back.” This was them holding back?

Wally breathlessly gasped “Bu-but...you’ve gotten..ev-everything.” He was honestly clueless what they had missed. They even got his feet, which usually got out of these attacks unscathed.

“Oh no, not quite.” With a tug, Frank freed the tails of Wally’s dress shirt, letting the fabric gather at his chest, exposing his bare belly.

In an instant, Wally knew exactly what was about to happen “Guys, please, please, please, anywhere but there...I heehee, I am behegging you.”

“Not a chance” Frank said dryly. He raised one hand and reached towards Wally’s trembling tummy. A light tap against the bright red heart in the very center elicited a splutter of giggles. Frank escalated from tapping to very gentle scratching. Wally utterly erupted.

“OHOHO *snort* GOODNESS NOHOHO! *snort**snort* GAHHAHAHAHAAHAAHAAHAA! EEHEEHEEHEE *snort*! PLEAHEEHEEHEESE *snort* NOHOHO! HAAHAA*snort*HAA~!”

“Would you like to get in on this, dear heart? He’s delightfully sensitive.”

“Don’t mind if I do, darlin’.” A second, larger finger joined Frank’s, scratching at the soft velvet tummy heart.

“PLEAHEEHEEHEESE *snort* TOOHOO MUHUCH! NYAA*snort*HAAHAAHAAHAAHAA*snort*! I’M SOHOHORRY!! OH GOOHOODNESS MEHEEHEEHEE *snort* *snort*, IT TIHIHICKLES*snort*!! IT TIHICKLES! BAHAAHAAHAAHAA*snort*! AAHHAAHAAHAA~!”

Wally was an absolute mess at this point. His hair had flown all over the place, his cheeks burned deep red with a blush that had spread to his tummy. All the while, a maddening pulse of tickly sensations was coursing through his system. All sourced from what was honestly the most sensitive part of him. His laugh was impossibly loud and broken up with his silly, honk-like snorts.

After was felt like an agonizing amount of time, a voice spoke “Just a moment, my dearest, there’s something I’m terribly curious to try.” A brief, heavenly moment of relief. Just enough for him to hear an intake of air, right before his own was knocked straight from him via the worst rippling tickles straight on the heart that marked his tummy.

Eddie was darn near stunned to watch Frank blow raspberry after raspberry on Wally’s tummy. Where did they get the idea to do that? They almost never resorted to such ‘silliness’ when tickling.

“Wow, pulling out all the stops are ya, honeydew?” This was a side of them he’d be happy to get used to.

Frank fixed their bowtie and replied “Indeed. I must admit, that is fun. I think I’m starting to understand Barnaby’s enjoyment, for one thing.” Frank shook his head; it was a dark day when he was starting to see eye-to-eye with Barnaby.

“Mind if I get in on the fun, lovebug?”

“Oh be my guest.”

Eddie used his free hand to scoop the weary little artist up in a more reachable position. Frank relished as the renewed, breathless blubbering quickly dissolved into hysterics once again. Wally’s laugh was more wheezes and air at this point. It was starting to enter a sort of delirium.

That’s when they both knew he was done.

Eddie tenderly let him collapse in his arms, cradling him against his chest. Frank undid the ascot at his wrists, neatly folding it on top of the desk. Wally melted into a puddle of hiccuping giggles in Eddie’s arms. His face and belly were bright red, and he seemed pretty witless. He rested his head against Eddie’s chest, letting the heaves and giggles work out of his system.

“Oh...heeheehee...oh I’m...haha...so sore.” He panted, his whole body hurt after such hard laughter, in an exhilarating sort of way.

Eddie gave him a gentle squeeze, his free hand offering deep, soothing rubs to Wally’s aching tummy. This earned an appreciative ‘murr’ from the exhausted artist. “Bet that feels pretty good, huh Walls? You got a big laugh for such a little guy.”

“Certainly do, serves you right for being so sensitive.” Frank said, with the undertone of a tease in his voice. Even so, his fingers combed affectionately through Wally’s hair, the fervent thrashing having utterly uncurled his signature rolled pompadour. This left the explosion of curls and waves that made up his actual hair texture.

Wally nestled comfortably in Eddie’s arms, soaking in the affection and post-tickle delirium. Eddie was so soft and warm, and his arms felt safe and secure. Wally let out a yawn, his eyes felt very heavy and Frank’s fingers playing through his hair was very soothing.

“Oh, biiig yawn. I think someone’s all tuckered out.” Eddie said with a chuckle.

Wally nodded, letting his head rest against his friend’s broad chest, soon drifting off. Eddie held him tight and went to sit down at his desk while Frank collected Wally’s shoes and socks, setting them neatly against the wall. Afterwards he went to take his spot in the chair beside Eddie’s desk.

At this point, Wally had fallen fast asleep, muttering to himself. He looked so at peace.

Frank shook his head, he had quite the charm to him when he wasn’t being a nuisance. They picked up the book they had been reading earlier, flipping back to their spot. They snuck one more look at the other two, Eddie was comfortably settled in his chair, Wally held close to his chest. The little neighbor seemed quite content. Not that Frank could blame him, being held by Eddie was one of those little joys he never took for granted.

Frank Frankly

- Switch (but often ‘Lee)

- Tickle/Worst Spots: Armpits, Tummy, Thighs

As a ‘Lee

An absolute mess

Tried very hard to deny his own ticklishness for a while, now he doesn't bother

Wiggling fingers at him will cause some serious nervous panic

Tends to tangle his hands in his hair when tickled, or brace against his tickler in an attempt to process the sensations

Cannot say ‘tickle’ in any capacity or form, 100% uses terms like ‘sensitive’ or ‘tender’

Touching him when he knows tickles are coming will make him squeak and giggle regardles

Tickled-laugh is a far cry from their usual chortled scoff, it’s bouncy and giggly, riddled with snorts

CANNOT stand teasing, the worst being cutesy baby-talk about how darn cute they’re being or adorably ticklish he is; calling their belly their ‘tummy’ or ‘tum-tum’ will send them reeling. He can’t bear how silly it makes it all seem.

His neck is a delightful giggle-spot, lightly tracing fingers or even gentle kisses there are enough to make them squirm

Hates how ticklish his belly is, it’s too soft and far too easy to make flustering comments about. It’s really hard to keep it together when someone’s teasing you about your ticklish tummy.

Raspberries will actually make them squeal loudly, then dissolve into a laugh that is absolutely chocked with snorts.

Their thighs are the death spot, even threatening to tickle them will have him spluttering

Kneading up and down his thighs will have him in hysterics. Scribbling the undersides will send them poor man into orbit. Another good trick is pinching the spot where his thighs and knees meet.

Get him really bad and he’ll start stimming, wildly flapping his hands or tapping them against the ground, it’s a lot to take in at once

Blushes furiously, his pink cheeks start to disappear

Very open to affection post-tickles, cuddles or playing with their hair afterwards is (quietly) appreciated, though he may doze off depending on how bad you got him. Tickling takes a lot out of him.

Their feet are a huge melt spot! Gentle tickles and massages on their soles and toes will make him putty in your hands. Makes the softest giggles and delighted murmurs of enjoyment.

Get ACHING ‘Lee moods. They get so bad he can feel his skin crawling.

Tends to act out when in this state, surlier than usual, hoping eventually one of the neighbors will catch on and give him a tickly ‘attitude-adjustment.’

Eddie and Julie are the only ones with the privilege of having Frank come to them directly to ask to be tickled, or gently prompted into doing so

As a ‘Ler

MERCILESS

This man will have you in stitches beneath his fingertips

Highly observant, will not miss a single reaction made and catalogs it in his mind

They are ruthlessly methodical and precise

Will root out the exact spots, speed, pressure, and method needed to have his ‘lee laughing the hardest

Once they find out, they will remember, and will keep that filed in their brain forever now

Will have their ‘lee dissected down to a scientific degree by the time they get done with them, not a tickle spot will be left scrutinized, from ears to toes

A spot on their back that makes them squeal, circles under the armpits elicit shrieks, pleads mercy when fingers scribble the base of their toes, Frank will be the one to find out

Not only will he find out, but he’ll be sure to keep his poor ‘lee up to date on his findings

Their teases involve him relaying his discoveries to his ‘lee in real time, allowing them to fully appreciate what is happening

His voice keeps it’s natural uppity, curt tone, with this underlying lace of mischief that seems to thread through every word. He’s really enjoying himself.

Frank’s tickle-monster is primarily activated through annoyance via his neighbors

This is a man who not only extracts what and how to get someone laughing their hardest, but primarily uses that information in cases of vengeance. It’s easy to piece together why he makes people so nervous.

Still cannot say the word ‘tickle’ as a ‘Ler. He’s a pinch better, but he has to mentally prep himself before he coughs it out.

Is not outwardly affectionate, but will offer a shoulder for their ‘lee to lean on if needed after wrecking them, keeping an arm around them to steady

Probably has a book on hand and will read aloud if asked

Stims by trailing his fingers on his ‘lee’s back or through their hair

Eddie Dear

- Switch

- Tickle/Worst Spots: Lower Back, Belly, Hips/Waist

As a ‘Lee

An absolute delight to tickle!

A very common target for the whole neighborhood, not a day goes by without at least one person giving the mailman the giggles

The reason is simply because he has the most wonderful laugh!

Eddie’s laughter is deep, rich, and as sweet as honey. Lets out this belly-laugh that’s quite loud and broken with squeals when you get him in a good spot.

Will get hiccups if he’s been at it a while

Will not fight back when tickled, he’s so scared of hurting his friends that he keeps his hands to himself

Very wiggly, will twist and squirm to escape the tickling the best he can, will buck and spasm if a good spot is got

Curls in on himself especially when his midsection is targeted

Delightfully ticklish! The lightest scribbles will have him wiggling and giggling

Super sensitive to soft tickles like feathers

From his ears to toes, all typical tickle-spots will earn delicious reactions!

Ears and neck give terrible tingles and make him quite giggly

Armpits aren’t the worst but they sure as heck are a soft spot!

His worst spots are his lower back, his soft tummy, and his waist and hips

Wiggling fingers on his lower back and sides make him squirm like crazy

That broad, plush tummy is a goldmine of tickle spots.

The best spot are those lovely, squishy love-handles that sit above his belt, kneading and pinching at them will have him in stitches!

Tummy raspberries will cripple him, make sure he’s not standing or you have a firm grip because his knees will buckle under him

His hips and waistline are the worst

Rapid squeezes or digging thumbs at his hips will have him howling, will be bucking and writhing like crazy

Blushes furiously when teased

Talking about how ticklish he is or how he’s reacting to them really gets him, lovingly compliment on how delightful he is to tickle

Speaking of, schmoozing him about his wonderful laugh will make him as red as his hair

Honestly adores being tickled, it’s great fun and it feels good to really cut loose and laugh his heart out

Gets this almost dreamy expression on his face after a good wrecking, may be pretty tired depending on how bad he got it

Makes a lovely teddy bear to snuggle afterwards, he’s the affectionate type so he’s happy to cuddle

As a ‘Ler:

Goes from ‘tickle-magnet’ to ‘tickle-monster’ a little too easily for anyone’s comfort

Gets absolutely terrible ‘Ler moods, but is too bashful to ask someone to let him tickle them

Fusses with his tie or his bag strap when these moods hit, friendly pats on the back or shoulder seem to linger much longer than usual. The word ‘tickle’ or hearing laughter will make him jump or stop cold in his tracks.

A little bit of prodding is needed to get this tender heart to bring out the tickle-monster

One of the absolute sweetest ‘Lers in the whole neighborhood

He’s very gentle, very careful not to push anyone past what they can handle

But despite that, he’s crippling tickler

As he’s very experienced being at the other end of things, he knows precisely how to drive a ‘lee in his hands up the wall

Those large hands can span quite a good distance, with the littler puppets he can practically scribble one hand across their entire tummies

He’s pretty strong do, packing around heavy parcels all day will do that to a fella, he can get a good grip on even the squirmiest ‘lee

He’s as methodical as his husband, carefully working out sweet spots and giving them ample attention

An absolute devastating tease

Teases via saccharine teases, sweet enough to give a tummy ache

That beautiful voice that seems to always get him tickled, also works wonders on turning his ‘lee into a puddle of blushing giggles, so he’s gotten good at laying that southern charm on thick

Coos about how so darn cute his ‘lee is, how they have the best smile and the darn most adorable laugh. Gives the sweetest compliments about their soft tummy or wiggling toes.

Calls his ‘lee any number of flusteringly cute nicknames, examples include ‘Gigglebox, butterscotch, snickerdoodle, honeybun, ticklebear, ect.”

He’ll chuckle softly at intervals, happy to have a friend in hysterics.

As cuddly as Barnaby is afterwards

Will hold his ‘lee in the softest hug and gently massage out the after-tickles, checking in to make sure they had fun and aren’t too worn out

He’s quite warm and cozy, it’s tempting to drift off, don’t worry! He’s happy to hold on to someone while they doze. May even hum or whistle a tune to help lull them to sleep if they look very tired.