#maoclops

"Badgerclops?"

"Hmm?"

The cyborg turned his attention to Mao, who bore a slightly curious look on his face. One gloved hand rested on his chin, while the other laid on the table before him.

"Do you ever wonder what other people think about you?"

"I guess I do, sometimes. Why?"

I love you. 

The cat glanced back down to the table, tapping his fingers against the oak in a rhythmic pattern.

"I don't know. I guess it'd be interesting if I knew what others really thought of me."

I love you. 

Badgerclops stared into his friend's emerald eyes just a little bit longer, racking his brain for a decent reply, before simply averting his gaze back to the plastic cup in his hand.

"That'd be neat."

I love you so much, it could kill me. 

"I know what I think about you, Mao Mao!"

The duo turned to face the fluttering blue bat hovering towards them. The sheriff smiled as she approached.

"And what's that, lil' deputy?"

Adorabat took in a deep breath as she prepared herself to speak.

"I think you're one of the coolest, awesomest, legendary-est heroes EVER!"

"Aww. Thanks, Adorabat."

Mao patted her head in a show of gratitude, and Badgerclops smiled to himself as well.

You're so much more than that. 

Then she glanced at his older deputy, a sly twinkle in her eyes. 

"And I think Badgerclo–"

BWEEP! BWEEP! BWEEP! 

The all-too-familiar drone of the Monster Alarm filled the room, and the two heroes leapt to their feet as their student swiveled around to face the sound.

"The Monster Alarm!" The swordsman bellowed, unsheathing his katana and gesturing towards the garage, "Get ready, y'all!"

"Yeah!"

"You got it!"

I wish I could tell you. 

And with a rush of wind and water they were off, flying towards the town of Pure Heart Valley. 

Badgerclops focused upon Mao in the front, watching how his cape flowed with the winds and how his steely gaze fixated itself on the town ahead.

If only he could move the hand that was currently placed on the cat's shoulder to his chin, and tilt his head to face him, and–

But what do I know? 

Just as quickly he pulled his hand back into place, turning away to stare at the forest below, his brief smile leaving as soon as it appeared.