Malevola

Malevola knew. Of course she knew.

She was the person Victor had talked with, going over his weird feelings that happened around the new dispatcher. Pinning down that sensation to the old‘High School Crush’ type shit. She was there when, after a morning of being a walking zombie, Victor arrived back to their apartment with an air of such smugness it was almost overwhelming. 

“Well, well, someone’s lost their bitchy pants,” Malevola teased, “Could it have something to do with why you weren’t on patrol at all today? Robert wouldn’t tell us anything.” 

“It has everything to do with why I wasn’t on patrol.” Victor commented back. Claiming a stool at their island bar and pinning the demon with a smirk. 

“...And you’re not going to tell me either, are you.”

“Nope.”

“Man, I think I hate smug secret keeping Sonar more than sad Sonar.” 

“Hey, bitch.”

“Hey, bitch, yourself. If you’re not going to tell me, then shut up and let me think.” The demon placed her beer to the side as she leaned in closer. Eyes narrowing as she looked her friend up and down. “Well, you do look rested. Did you just sleep today?”

“Yes, but that’s not the reason that I’m happy.”

“Did…your latest crypto thing actually take off?”

“Nope.”

“Your portfolio’s doing better.”

“Wrong.”

“Fuck man, can you at least give me a hint?”

“And make it easy for you? As if.”

“You’re such an ass.”

“Fine, one hint, and I guarantee you’ll get it.” Victor held up his hands, a silent indication for Malevola to wait as he gave a dramatic pause. “...Robert.”

The demon’s eyes widened, “Oh fuck…did you fuck him?”

“No, but close. I kissed him,” Victor’s smile slipped when Malevola started laughing, “What? Is that hard to believe?”

“No!” Malevola wheezed, “But you’re prancing in here like some kind of show pony, living your best life, over a kiss? I have never seen you this excited unless you got laid for a cheap price.” 

Fur puffed up from both embarrassment and frustration, Victor crossed his arms. “I thought my friend would be happy to know that I’ve, somehow, landed my crush.”

“Oh, stop pouting. I get to tease you after the shit show you did trying to run yourself to death. But, in all seriousness, I really am proud of you dude.” 

“Thanks, Mal.”

“So, give me all the details! How did it happen? Is he a good kisser? Please tell me that you, at least, got to feel his ass.”

The remainder of that night was all about Victor recalling each event with such detail. What had happened in the locker room, their talk, their kiss, everything. Maelvola was unable to keep a warm smile off her face as she watched her friend practically melt as he talked. Not missing how Victor’s features softened whenever he said Robert’s name, or how his ears would twitch with just barely contained glee. The hybrid had fallen hard and it was adorable to watch.

It took awhile for Robert to start appearing at their apartment. Malevola unsure if it was because he was nervous about seeing her after their ‘friendly talk’. Or if he was just trying to take it slow, because that’s the kind of person Malevola took him for. Someone who breaks down a situation to think of the best outcome before acting. But soon the dispatcher was appearing more often than not to the shared space.

“I feel like you should just move in at this point,” Malevola commented one day as Robert pulled two more drinks from the fridge. 

“What, and give up my feeling of independence by being in a shitty apartment with no bed?” 

“...Wait, you don’t have a bed?”

“I’m cheap.”

“You’re a death sentence to your lower back.” Victor called out from the sofa.

“I only come here so I can sleep on your bed, I want you to know that.” Robert retorted. 

“I am not complaining.”

“Get a room, you two.”

“I do, it’s his.”

“Yep, it’s mine!” 

The point to be made here was that Malevola had become very accustomed to seeing Robert after work. Even reaching a mark in which Beef got to claim a section of the area as his own. Which, hell yeah, that’s an awesome perk for Malevola. Victor can have his boy toy and the demon gets the dog. Win - Win in her book. 

But what never really entered her mind for some reason was that, at any moment, things could start to become a bit more intimate between the two. Or, at the very least, she’d hoped that more intense moments would be in Victor’s bedroom and not on the couch. ‘Hoped’ being the key word there. 

Malevola was returning from a shopping spree and dinner out on the town with Alice. Yawning widely as she made a portal to the living room, fully expecting to be walking into a quiet apartment. With Victor and Robert already retiring to the former’s bedroom and Beef greeting her with those adorable tail wags. 

What she was not expecting was to find the room dimmed to just the point that a human would barely be able to see. The low light wasn’t a brother to her as Malevola was able to take in the full view of the main area no problem. As well as the show that was being presented to her, unknowingly mind you, from the two occupying the couch. 

Robert at some point in that evening has found himself straddling Victor, hands tangled up in the hybrid’s fur with a tight grip. Victor, on his part, had one hand on the dispatcher’s ass while the other was running along the scarred front, all of which was visible due to Robert’s unbuttoned shirt. Both were absolutely lost in the kiss they were sharing, clearly unaware of their surroundings as Malevola just stood there. The demon just able to pick up small breaths and desperate whines. 

“Shit.” Malevola spoke into the quiet. 

That broke the moment. Robert’s movements were so wild that he almost fell back, if not for Victor’s hand that was still resting on his backside. Pale skin turned a dark red while Victor’s fur puffed up to its fullest out of embarrassment. Two pairs of wide eyes looked over the Malevola, like two teens being caught by a parent doing something they shouldn’t have. 

“F-Fuck, Malevola,” Victory eventually spoke, “I-I thought you were going to be out all night.”

“We have work tomorrow and I don’t want to do it hungover…shockingly. Really wish I could have known you two would be swapping spit in here.”

“I would suggest a sock on the door. But I don’t think that’ll be effective if you can just portal your way in.” Robert added, sitting back down in Victor’s lap.

“Or you two could just keep your sex drive confined to the bedroom. Like normal idiots.” Malevola gave a wave as she made for her room. Giving a wide yawn before continuing. “Whatever, I’ll see you two tomorrow. Just try and keep the screams of pleasure from being too loud. Don’t want to bother the neighbors.”

The duo watched as Malevola entered her room and closed the door. Remaining frozen for a while longer before Robert cleared his throat.

“We do have work tomorrow.” 

“You just want to kiss in bed.”

“Are you upset by that?”

“...No, absolutely not, let’s go.” 

__________________________________________

Flambae

Being gay does not describe Flambae. 

Flambae is the undisputed perfect visual definition of being gay. He sets the bar. Not the other way around.

Don’t get it twisted. 

He’d been out of the closet years before becoming a villain and joining the Phoenix Program. Meaning his gay-dar was absolutely perfect, just like him, when it came to pinpointing who was ‘what’ with relations. Didn’t matter where you think landed on the spectrum, Flambae knew. Could tell in a heartbeat. But was respectful in allowing others to have their journey towards self discovery. He was a reformed villain, not an ass. 

When he’d first met the others on the Z-Team, instead of listening to the bullshit ‘Welcome to the SDN family!’ video playing on the big screen, Flambae took the time to survey the room. Eyes landing and scanning on each of his new ‘teammates’ with a conclusion drawn up before he moved onto the next. 

Scary demon lady: Definitely bisexual. 

Wannabe artist who was surprisingly level headed: Straight, but was curious and could lean. 

The fucking walking, talking construction site: Asexual and aromantic. 

Short fuck: Straight. 

Emo reject: Straight with little to no interest in anything else. 

Invisibitch: Could swing either way or even in a fucking circle. Damn she was desperate. 

Batman: …Wait.

Flambae held himself back from laughing, not wanting to draw attention to himself for once. Bemused eyes narrowing in on the hybrid sitting two rows ahead of him. That poor idiot was trying to present himself as straight. Full on straight without even a hint of a bend or curve. But holy shit was he bad at it. Maybe the other idiots here couldn’t tell, but Flambae wasn’t just some normal idiot. 

…Wait, he meant he wasn’t an idiot. He just wasn’t- You know what, he wasn’t going to make this thought work, so let’s move on. 

What he was trying to get at was he could see beneath all the layers of a posh lawyer who constantly had eyes traveling down to some part of the female counterparts on this team. That dude was bi, with a hard, hard lean towards men. Using females as a means to hide this and to no doubt try and scratch the itch that was just never satisfied. 

Flambae settled on the reason for hiding the preference was due to family pressure to keep up appearances that would cause the bat-guy to be so serious about his choices. Over compensation. How sad. Ultimately not his problem. If the bat wanted to believe he was straight to make himself feel better, so be it. 

He just wished Sonar didn’t have to announce how ‘straight’ he was at every second of the day. Seriously, why so much emphasis on breasts at every turn? It’s not like Flambae flaunted his sexual desire for the third leg to show off how gay he was. But then, he wasn’t trying to be something he wasn’t. Flambae didn’t show off to hide, he showed off to be noticed. 

Still, when Sonar’s comments about the chest area of a woman started to dwindle until it was never brought up, Flambea became suspicious. It was too quick of a change to just happen without cause. Yet the fire creator couldn’t put his finger on what exactly could have happened to make Sonar quiet down about everything. 

He didn’t get the first clue until a few days after the sudden ‘change’, when Flambae and Sonar were in the locker room at the same time. The former putting extra time in the mirror to make sure his drawn in eyebrows looked as natural as possible. He heard a phone go off, which was quickly followed by shuffling of the person no doubt scrambling to answer it quickly. 

“Hey you.”

Ah, it was the bat. Flambae huffed, intending on ignoring the other as he finished putting himself together. He couldn’t be bothered to worry about other people’s lives at the moment. 

“Yeah, I’m changing now. …Oh, fuck yes I wanna eat out! Where to? …That’s a little pricey, but you’re worth it.” 

Hold up. Pause. That was an endearing tone entering Sonar’s voice. The fire user stilled at that, now suddenly super invested in whatever the hell was going on.

“The hell do you mean you’re paying? Babe, you don’t even have a mattress, how the hell are you going to pay? …Oh, you save up for special occasions. I didn’t know that eating out on a random Thursday counted as special.” 

Flambae frowned softly when the other suddenly went quiet. As discreetly as he could, he tilted his locker door so that the mirror showed more of the room behind him. Finding Sonar at his own locker, the hybrid’s fur puffed up so full that Flambae thought he looked like a dandelion. Sonar was flustered, and it was no doubt due to whomever was on the other end. 

“Fuck, you keep talking to me like that and we’re not gonna make it to dinner. …Hey, sleep can be the final reward once I’m done with you.”

Well, holy shit, if that didn’t prove what Flambae had been assuming this entire conversation. At some point, Sonar had found himself a partner. Clearly someone who made the hybrid happy if that stupid smile was any indication. 

“Yeah, I’m in the locker room now. …No, don’t wait for me, I’ll swing by your place later.” 

Whoever this person was, they worked in the building. Which made all of this so much better, in Flambae’s opinion. Nothing made a job less boring than an office romance. 

“I’ll see you later.” Sonar hung up and Flambae quickly fixed his locker door to face him again. 

The fire user heard the other dress quickly, leaving the area in seconds. Which left Flambae to stare at his reflection in shock. He just couldn’t believe that Sonar of all people seemed to have landed himself a relationship. A healthy relationship at that. Was Flambae a little bitter? Sure, but was ultimately happy that the hybrid had calmed down a little bit. Or at least to the point where he didn’t have to stress about his sexuality and make it everyone else’s problem.

Now came the question of trying to figure out who Sonar was romancing. Which was harder than he imagined since Flambae wasn’t quite sure which direction this was taking. Had Sonar found a woman who was just as depraved as he was? Or had he acknowledged and accepted that he had a strong thing for men? 

Flambae stewed over this for days, only letting Prism in on the situation, unable to keep it to himself for too much longer. The fire user ran through every person at that office, twice, and was unable to come up with an answer. Leaving him in a sour mood. 

How could he not know who that bat had fallen for? It was driving him crazy! Flambae was so focused on trying to figure this out that he started to ignore the world around him. Using all of his brain power to solve this mystery. Practically started running into things and people because he just couldn’t be bothered to move out of the way. 

“Come on, just one kiss. It’ll hold me over until the end of the shift.” 

“Sonar, we’re at work.” 

Flambae had never snapped his neck up faster in his life. His feet had somehow carried him to the kitchen area in the SDN building. Standing in the doorway, vision came into focus as he quickly scanned the area. Sonar was on the opposite side, in the corner, trapping someone with his body. Said person seemed unbothered by how close the hybrid was, arms wrapped around the hybrid. 

Arms that looked suspiciously familiar…

“Bob Bob?” Flambae’s tone of absolute shock broke the two apart. Confirming that it was, in fact, Mr. Robert Robertson the fucking Third that had been trapped in the corner. “Are you fucking kidding me?”

“H-Hey, Flambae, didn’t hear you come in!” Sonar’s voice squeaked, clearly embarrassed that they’d been caught. 

“I’m glad you’re finally embracing your sexuality batboner, but fucking Robert?” 

Sonar puffed up at that, brows furrowed in clear anger, but was held back when Robert hooked his arm around the hybrid’s own. “Just because you missed out on all of this sex appeal doesn't mean you get to be pissy with other people get that claim.” 

Flambae scoffed, “I’m only shocked that someone found you interesting, Robert. You’re not my first choice as a romantic partner.”

“And you’re not mine, so I guess we’ll just have to be okay with where we are now,” the dispatcher smiled, “I know I am.”

“Fuck, that was cute.” Sonar mumbled. 

“Thanks, that’s why I said it.”

“Could you at least work on your appearance, Bob Bob,” Flambae growled out, “You look even more homeless next to Sonar. At least he can properly clean up.”

“Hey, I like the gruff look.” Sonar bit back.

Robert shrugged, “Besides, I’m not really in the budget range for a new outfit or high end supplies.”

“I could get you something.”

“I thought you liked my rugged, homeless look?”

“Well, yeah, but I kinda wanna see what you look like with your hair slicked back. And fit you just right. And-”

“You keep going on like that and we’re going to have a new issue on our hands.”

Deciding his disgruntled presence wasn’t needed any more, Flambae turned and left the kitchen. Fuming as he made his way through the halls. Unsure if he was upset that he hadn’t figured it out on his own or that, of all people, fucking Bob Bob was the hot catch.

“You need to take Robert shopping,” Flambae said to Prism, announcing his arrival.

“And why, pray fucking tell, would I do that?” The singer shot back.

“Because he’s dating Sonar and seeing how drab Robert is next to that bat-man makes me depressed.”

“...Well, now I have questions.”

__________________________________________

Prism

If there was one thing that kept Prism going, it was drama. Whether it was caused by her, something scandalous that created a huge upset, or just learning about a secret no one else was supposed to know, she ate it up. It’s what got her up in the morning, knowing that something so entertaining was just waiting for her to discover. 

The drawback to that, however, were the dry spells that happened between each drop of gossip. Not every new piece of information was spicy. Which just left Prism waiting for more and better stories to be dropped into her lap. 

She’d honestly been spoiled when she joined the Z-Team. Stuck with a number of villains with pasts that they didn't wish to share and had hidden motivation as to why they were suddenly taking this path? The perfect layout to start digging. Taking it slow because she knew any of these sour motherfuckers could try and light her up if she pushed too hard at first. But that’s what made the game so interesting. 

It was quite the pleasant surprise to find a kindred spirit in Flambae, the fire starter always ready to talk shit if it meant time would go by faster. They swap what they’d heard during their small breaks in between missions and during lunch. Never after work because work needed to stay at work and after work had a different kind of bitching to be had. Either way, the annoyance of the day became far better to handle when there was a dependable partner there with you. 

“Hey, there he is!” Prism beamed as Flambae finally arrived back to SDN, “Took you long enough. Was wasting away with how long ya kept me waiting. What ‘cha in the mood for? Personally, I’ve been craving burger since yesterday and-”

“Sonar has a partner.” 

Prism lowered her visor to peer over with a raised brow. “Come again?”

“You heard me. Fucking batboner has a partner.”

“And how did y’all come to this conclusion?”

“I knew something was up when he stopped talking about breasts so much.”

“Ya know, I’d noticed that too.”

“Then, last night, in the locker room, he got a call. And, Alice, I swear on my late grandpa’s grave, the tone I heard was so endearing.” 

“That’s not enough to say he’s hookin’ up with someone.” Prism frowned. 

Flambae only scoffed and leaned closer, “I would normally argue with you on that, considering who we’re talking about. Because we both know that ‘Sonar’ and ‘endearing’ don’t go together. But, that’s not what really clued me in. It’s what he insinuated afterwards.”

“Which would be?”

“There was some sexual undertone to one of his statements. Very heavy handed, if you know what I mean.”

“Ooo, I’ll trust you on that one,” Prism inched closer, “So, any guesses?”

“The only major clue I have is that he’s definitely dating someone here, at this branch of SDN.”

The singer let out an eager gasp, “Shut up! That’s fucking perfect! Office romances are always fun to watch. Unless they implode, then it’s everyone’s problem and not in a fun way.”

“Problem is, I can’t figure out who it would be.”

“That’s unlike you. You can normally sniff them out, like a bloodhound.” 

“You can understand my aggravation.” 

“You thought about every person in this office? Twice? Nothing clicks?”

“Nothing, and it’s pissing me off.”

“Well, I’ll keep my eyes out and let you know if I see anything weird.” 

“I knew I could count on you. Now, what were you saying about burgers for lunch?”

Even with agreeing to help, Prism didn’t have to wait long to find out who the hybrid had started to hook up with. Less than two days later, Flambae was stalking over to her with a look of disgust and frustration Prism had not seen before. She’d barely opened her mouth when the fire user beat her to the punch. 

“You need to take Robert shopping.” 

Prism frowned, lips pursed. “And why, pray fucking tell, would I do that?”

“Because he’s dating Sonar and seeing how drab Robert is next to that bat-man makes me depressed.”

“...Well, now I have questions.”

“I just saw them in the break room kitchen area,” Flambae continued, “They were being affectionate.” 

“You sound rather off put by this. What, did Sonar beat you to the punch?”

“The fuck- you too!? What am I doing that makes it seem like I wanna be with fucking Bob Bob?”

“Because you give off  a clingy but hateful ex who just can’t let go of the past.”

“Would you please just help Robert clean up his look, or something. I truly can not stand how terrible he looks.”

“I got chu!” Prism laughed, “I’ll catch him after work and make sure he’s fit to Sonar’s standards.”

Flambae frowned, “What about my standards?”

“Bitch, you are not dating him! Be fuckin’ for real. Being pissy when I call you out on your attitude then say shit like that. The actual fuck is wrong with you?”

“I should have asked someone else.”

“As if anyone would put up with your attitude. Shut that face of yours and let me handle it.” 

Prism barely paid attention during the afternoon shift. Her mind was more focused on where she would be taking Robert instead of what she was doing for her job. Only moving at a usable pace when she was paired with someone else. Even then, it was like pulling teeth getting her to focus. Which ended it a bit of a disaster when she and Sonar went on a mission together. 

“Okay, so, lesson learned,” Prism said weakly as they returned to SDN. The singer looked in far better shape than the beaten up hybrid. “Light powers and mirrors don’t really work well together, and using them can harm everyone nearby.”

“I wish you knew that before I was trapped in a small enclosure. I’m sore in places I never thought I could be sore in.” Sonar grumbled. 

“At least that’s the end of the shift! Sorry, Sonar, really, it’ll be better next time.” Prism waved the other off as Sonar headed to medical while she turned towards the dispatch area. Sure she felt bad. But she wasn’t a nurse and no doubt Sonar will be feeling much better after she styles Robert up. 

That plan fell apart when Prism saw that Robert was already gone. Or at the very least his desk was empty as Chase was still playing with Beef and that dog only left when his owner did.

“Where’s Roberston?” Prism asked. 

“Why? You gonna try and blind him too?” Chase shot back, not really looking up at her. 

“I need to talk to him about something important, can’t really wait. So where is he?”

“Last I checked, he was heading towards the medical wing. Search there if you’re so desperate to talk to him. I have other things to worry about.” 

“Whatever…” Prism got a few scratches in behind Beef’s ear before she was swatted away. The singer blew a kiss to Chase’s disgruntled face as she took off. 

Without having any other leads, Prism followed the path to the medical. A little upset with the time lost as she would have just followed Sonar while she seared. Now she’ll look like an uncaring ass towards her teammate, letting him go alone. Whatever, it’s a problem to be dealt with if it’s actually brought up. 

It was fairly busy, apparently her and Sonar weren’t the only ones with a bit of bad luck on their last dispatch. Prism passing room after room, each occupied with at least two people. But none of them were the one she was actually looking for. 

“Ow! You said you’d give me a count down!” 

“It’s actually worse that way, trust me.” 

Prism slowed her speed, hearing both Sonar and Robert’s voices. Interesting peeking in knowing they were in the room together. Time to see if Flambae was right. Not that she didn’t trust the other, but it’s better to see things with your own eyes to confirm. So she hid around the corner as best she could and peeked in. 

Sonar was sitting on the medical bed. Completely undressed from the waste up, showing off all the cuts and bruises he’d claimed in his frantic bid for freedom. Some cuts were already wrapped up, with Robert manning both the cleaning and the dressing for each. Sonar had his attention on Robert, while the dispatcher was unusually focused on the task at hand. Something that both Prism and the hybrid picked up on. 

“Hey…you okay?” Sonar asked softly. 

“Says the person who looks like battered fruit,” Robert replied, “I’m fine. I…just want to get you cleaned up and get home as soon as possible.”

“Which home are we talking about?”

“...Yours, I’m hoping.”

“You know you’re welcome over any time.” 

Robert only nodded, his brows furrowing further as his hands started to shake. “Fuck, sorry, I’m almost done.”

“Seriously, what’s wrong?” Sonar gently took Robert’s hands in his own and pulled him closer, the dispatcher wasting no time and leaned into the hold. 

“It’s going to sound stupid.”

“I doubt that. And if it is, I’ll laugh about it and tell you how stupid you’re being.”

“That, shockingly, does not help.”

“Sorry, trying to lighten the mood.” Robert sighed and, freeing his hands from Sonar’s, wrapped his arms around the hybrid. Sonar following with his own arms pulling the other closer, his ears drooping slightly, “Robert-”

“I was fucking scare,” Robert said quickly, “It’s…so different than when I’m not on the field. All I can do now is sit back and watch and just…hope that everything’s going to be okay. And it’s the worst feeling in the world. Because if it does go wrong, I can’t be there to help.”

“Hey, I get it. It sucks to be in that kind of position. But it all worked out fine, I’m fine! Came back in one piece at least.” 

“Will you be that lucky next time?” 

“Yeah, I will. Because I’m pretty sure the Z-Team will tear everything apart to keep everyone safe. And I have a feeling you’d be able to throw hands with the best of them.” Sonar smirked hearing Robert snort. They hybrid puffing up his chest as he continued on dramatically. “Do you know how fucking hot that would be to see? You, single handedly, beating up anyone that dared crossed your path? Fuck…you might have something else to handle before we leave. “

Robert laughed at that, a genuine laugh. It wasn’t loud, Prism could barely hear it, but she could tell that the dispatcher was happy. Robert leaned back a little to properly face Sonar, a warm smile on his face. “Think that’d be hot?”

“Are you kidding? Seeing you put people down, covered in blood, the idiots running to save their own skin for Big Baddie Bobert. I just came up with my new wet dream.”

“Would you stop saying shit like that!”

“You keep laughing, what are you mad at me for!” Sonar laughed along with Robert with their foreheads pressed together. 

Robert eventually calmed down enough to look Sonar in the eye again, smiling softly. “This is going to sound stupid…but keep coming back safe. Okay?”

“Yeah, no issues there.” 

“Good.” With that, Robert closed the distance and brought Sonar into a deep kiss, both closing their eyes as they fell into a quiet moment. 

Taking that as her cue to leave, Prism quietly turned and walked off. Her own smile on her face as she planned for another day to take Robert out shopping. Not that she thought he needed anything. That dispatcher had that bat wrapped around his finger something bad. And it was so fucking cute. 

__________________________________________

Chase

He should have known something was up way sooner than he did. To be fair to himself, Chase hadn’t been around the kid for 15 years. Personality and habits can drastically change during that time, and Robert had been forced to grow up far too fast. With trauma like that, it would affect anyone. 

Still, it was a hard road to travel in learning about such a big change in Robert. Chase had already been impressed with the other on how well he was handling everything. From having to lead and someone control a group of ‘reformed’ villains to cutting one of their own because the higher ups were such fucking idiots to failures with every test run with the new suit. The kid had dealt with a lot in the past few weeks. It didn’t really seem to bother Robert however, the constant changes might have helped keep him level headed. A distraction while he waited for his ‘normal life’ to return to him. 

In that time, Chase had watched (rather reluctantly) as the Z-Team started to get closer to Robert. They were still all assholes that Chase wished would just do their fucking jobs. He thought they’d learn from Coupe having to leave that they needed to keep their shit together, but whatever. The point was the Z-Team and their dispatcher had started to form some kind of actual bond. Chase wouldn’t want to call it some found family nonsense, but it matched pretty closely to what he was seeing. 

Robert and Invisibitch would always exchange some kind of banter as they walked into the building together. Punch Up kept pulling the poor kid into the ring to see what Robert was really made out of, as if the villain knew the toothpick build was hiding something. Golem was the person that Robert could go to when he needed a quiet moment, knowing the construct wasn’t one to share words if it wasn’t necessary. Sometimes Waterboy would join them, making sure to bring a bucket so his water and Golem’s form wouldn’t accidentally mix. Prism would ask Robert to join her and Flambae to lunch, with the fire user being somewhat reluctant but didn’t put up much of a fight. Malevola’s portals started appearing more often, and with them more small treats that appeared on Robert’s desk. 

And Sonar…

Chase had a harder time pinning the hybrid down than he thought he would. At first, Sonar was easy to read. A drug user who took any chance to talk about boobs, said drug use, or the fact that he went and graduated from Harvard. An annoying ass whose monotone voice made Chase want to throw his headset across the room if it meant never having to hear it again. Then came the day that Malevola practically demanded that Robert stop sending Sonar out on so many missions. And Chase had to tell the fucking idiot that, as their boss, he needed to check up on his team. 

Whatever happened in that locker room is still a mystery to Chase. No matter how many times he asked Robert what actually went down, the bleeding heart would just reply with, “Can’t say, confidential stuff. Just know that it worked out and…Sonar and I have a new understanding for each other. With each other.”

Chase’s eyes would narrow at that, noting that Robert’s pale skin would suddenly see a small increase in red. Whatever happened had changed the hybrid’s personality dramatically. Sonar could still run his mouth with the best of them. But his conversations were now steered to making Robert laugh or just to have the dispatcher talk to him. If the other Z-Team members noticed, they didn’t say anything. The times that Chase would check in, the hairs on the back of his neck would stand up hearing the two interact. An old habit from his hero days when his body was trying to warn him about something. 

Did he think that Sonar was going to try and hurt Robert? No, not really. Sure Sonar’s a villain trying to clear his name to some degree and he seemed to like Robert. Overall, an attempted attack would be a giant step back for the hybrid. That still didn’t change the fact that Chase was protective of Robert. And knew full well if that bat fuck did anything to hurt Robert, no one would be able to find Sonar. Simple as that. 

It was a slow day, something that Chase was thankful for as he could spend his time getting some paper work done and providing Beef with much needed love. Because the dog should not go any longer than 5 minutes without some attention, and even that break between pets was pushing it. Even with his hands ‘full’, Chase still found time to be bored. It was raining outside, meaning there wasn’t much in the way of people watching. The office was quiet, and lunch had just passed meaning the majority of the building was empty. 

Chase felt like every second was ticking by slower than the last and it was driving him crazy. 

“Would you stop saying things like that? You know we’re still being monitored. …No, I will not switch to my phone.I don’t think that would look professional if I’m supposed to be constantly checking the monitor.. …Or you could mind what you’re saying, Mr. Harvard Graduate.” 

Chase’s attention was peeked hearing Robert talk about something that was clearly not fully work related. Immediately noticing the tone wasn’t annoyed or exhausted. But caring and soft. Switching over to Robert’s feed, the former hero noticed that it was just a communication link between the younger hero and Sonar. Curiosity getting the better of him, Chase silently switched on his headset to listen in. 

“-ing that I really need more time in bed. Especially on days like this. Do you know how perfect the rain sounds in my bedroom? Nature sure can write a symphony when given the space.” Sonar’s voice came through, Chase picking up the familiar smugness. 

“Rather poetic. Even with how badly you wanted to stay home, ‘just because it’s raining’ is not a good excuse,” Robert countered, “I’m surprised you’re not getting some coffee right now. You’re near that cafe you like.”

“Oh shit, you’re right.”

“How do you not know that?”

“I’m sure you’re aware that looking down onto the city streets is a lot different than walking on them. Perspective and what not makes it a whole lot different.” 

“Yet the buildings and landmarks never move. How weird.”

“You keep this attitude up and I’m not getting you a pastry.”

“You would purposefully deny me my daily allotment of glazed donuts? You did claim that the cafe’s donuts were better than Granny’s and I’ve yet to try one.”

“Well, twist my arm, why don’t you. I’ll get you a donut and some coffee, and I’ll be back before you know it.”

Chase heard them share a laugh before the line went quiet. The ‘older’ dispatcher was about to click out when Sonar broke the silence. 

“I’m not kidding, about the rain sounding awesome in my bed.”

Robert’s chair squeaked, Chase couldn’t tell if that meant he’d leaned forward or back. “I’m assuming that was an invitation for tonight?”

“Robert, you know you’re always welcome, I don’t know how many times I or Malevola need to say it. …I am getting a little sappy at the idea.”

“At what idea?”

“It’s Friday, it’s going to be raining all night… I don’t know. Maybe it would be nice if we just laid in bed and just…chilled. You, me, and the Beef. Doing absolutely nothing, maybe having some music or a show on in the background, and just relaxing.”

“...I’d like that.”

“Hell yes! I’ll grab whatever food thing you want, give me your top 10 snack items.” 

“10? Geez, are you going to keep me trapped in said bed all weekend?”

“Uh, yeah, if I can convince you.”

“Well, the snacks are not a bad start to this bargain of my time. What else you got?”

“You need more than that to convince you to spend time with me?”

“No, just trying to see what else I could squeeze out of you.” 

“Oh ho, trying to play the system are we? I like the way you think, really Harvard graduate level behavior of you.”

“I very much doubt I would have survived college life. But thank you for the words of encouragement.” 

“You’re welcome. Now, snacks? I have a few things in mind, a lot of cream filled items, if you know what I’m saying-”

“Oi, idiot,” Chase cut in. Getting satisfaction in hearing some kind of panicked response from the idiot next to him and the idiot over the feed. “Need I remind you, fuckers, that these discussions are always recorded and monitored. Keep your shitty ass love lives to yourselves and spare us this nonsense.” 

“Right, sorry, right. Bobert, boss man, I’ll…I’ll text you later.”

“Yeah, sounds good.” Robert replied back weakly, his voice muffled. 

As the line went dead, Chase placed his headset aside and stood to look over the cubical wall. Finding Robert in his chair with his face in his hands, the back of his ears a deep red. 

“You are a walking HR nightmare, you know that, right?” Chase started, trying not to take too much enjoyment out of seeing the younger man squirm. “Seriously, what were you thinking? Or was it your second head doing all the thinking-”

“Chase!” Robert hissed out, head snapping up to glare at the other. 

“Don’t you get pissy with me, you fucking idiot. You should know you’re playing a dangerous game, and with a con artist nonetheless.” 

“Well, I’m trying not to judge on past mistakes, thank you very much.” 

“Look, kid, all I’m saying is that… If that batboner fuck makes you happy, great. More power to you. But keep your pants on at work. Keep conversations like that on your phone. And if he hurts you in any way shape or form I will make him regret it in every instance.”

“...Thanks, Chase.”

“Love ya, kid.”

“Love you too, Unc.”

“And keep it PG at work please. The less sausage I see, the better.”

“Chase, what the fuck!” 

__________________________________________

Royd

There wasn’t much that got past Royd. It was a double edge sword, his intelligence allowed him to observe and take in a lot of information. With the majority of the time that information being necessary to problem solve and find better outcomes. However, there was that small percentage that was focused around…what had Chase called it? Soap opera drama nonsense? Yeah, that seemed accurate. Things that Royd didn’t really have time or energy to care about.

While the news of Mecha Man had been devastating in more than one way, Royd had been over the moon when he’d been told he’d be fixing it. The suit. The item he dreamed about examining every since arriving to the mainland. With that came the knowledge of who was the current owner and operator of the latest owner. 

He knew Robert Robertson the Third had been in a coma for a bit. But Royd was more than a little shocked seeing how skinny the other was. And small. Felt like he could snap the hero with one hand if he wasn’t careful. That didn’t mean that Robert was a push over. Royd could tell. You don’t become a hero just because you have fancy equipment, you have to have some kind of craziness to you. And Robert had that in spades. All of it tucked away and kept behind an air of indifference. 

Regardless of his physical appearance, Royd respected the hell out of Robert. The current Mecha Man had been running this show for 15 years. On his own. Keeping the suit alive with duck tape and a prayer, but always made it work. Until his luck ran out mind you, but that didn’t mean Robert was incompetent. Even if Royd was the more skilled out of the two, Robert knew this machine like the back of his hand. Could point out every misalignment and lost piece at the drop of a hat. 

It was clear that Robert had made his life to be about Mecha Man and nothing else. 

And while it was admirable, it was also a little…sad.

Royd eventually wondered if the bored and monotone personality wasn’t about keeping a level head. But more about keeping people away. Going solo sucked, but that might have been an easier life than knowing people were worriedly waiting for you to arrive safely back. 

“His dad’s death messed him up more than he’d like to admit,” Chase had told Royd once over office coffee, “A group of heroes shattered because one of them got too ego focused, and it cost Robert everything he found safety in. It hurts to think he’d drawn the conclusion that being alone kept him safer… I really wish I had tried harder.”

“You did what you could.” Royd attempted to comfort. 

“But it wasn’t enough…it wasn’t anything in the long run. We really did just leave a kid alone because the adults couldn’t deal with their emotions.” 

Royd was never fond of these conversations. Because it ultimately meant there was no solution to be had and those problems always stuck to his mind, no matter what he did. He was good with machines, not emotions. That’s to say, he wasn’t an ass. If someone needed a shoulder to cry on or a listening ear to just rant to, Royd would happily fill that role. But knowing he couldn’t help just made him feel worse about the entire exchange. 

What good was he if he couldn’t fix the problem? 

…That might be a topic he has with a therapist.

Royd was pulled from his memories when the elevator dinged, announcing the arrival to his workshop area. He let out a heavy sigh as he rolled his shoulders, trying to put himself in a fixing mindset. Can’t be in a bad mood if you’re trying to solve. He was running through the list on his phone when he heard voices coming from his room. Royd stilled as he listened, worrying for a moment that there'd somehow been a break in.

“You’re the poster child for hope. The whole situation of not having powers yet still knowing how to kick ass, that’s one of the reasons people adore you. You’re an everyday person making a difference in the world. Normies vibe with normies, or whatever.” 

“I was making a difference…and it was California. I doubt people from Japan know who I am.”

“Point still stands, you’re making big waves-”

“Made them, I made big waves…not anymore.” 

Frowning, Royd inched closer, peering into the large room via the first window. He found Robert and Sonar occupying the area. The virtual rendering the mechanic had made for Robert’s new suit on display. The one that was still in pieces because of the latest trial run mishap. Robert’s attention was one the visual, a look of loss on his face. Completely oblivious to the fact that Sonar was looking at him. The hybrid’s face scrunched into one of worry. 

“Robert…you’re still doing big things. I doubt Blonde Blazer would argue that fact. You’ve helped the Z-Team a lot, we’re more of a working unit now. An actual team even.” 

“You don’t get it, it’s not supposed to be like this.” 

Sonar’s frown deepened, taking another step closer to the hero. “What are you talking about?”

“The suit…”

“...Is in pieces and I know that’s not the outcome you want to work with right now but-”

“It’s what I’ve been told to do for my entire life…the only thing that I’m supposed to do. Mecha Man has been all that I’ve had for so long, I don’t know how I’ll function without it. I…shouldn’t be. If this job…if Blonde Blazer hadn’t offered this…I don’t think I’d be here right now and that’s kind of a scary thought.”

Sonar reached out at that, gently taking one of Robert’s hands in between his, causing the hero to finally look at him. “Don’t say shit like that. That’s not funny.”

“It’s not funny, because it’s not a joke. I’m…not supposed to be here, I’m supposed to die in that suit. That should have been it for me-”

“Would you stop fucking saying that.” 

“It’s my legacy, Victor. Not saving people, not making a name, not even becoming my own person, it’s continuing the legacy by giving my life to the name of Mecha Man.” 

“So, what, since you don’t have a suit then you don’t care about people? You don’t care about Chase, or Blonde Blazer, or Beef, or the Z-Team? …You don’t care about me?”

That brought some life back into Robert’s eyes, the glassiness slipping away as he blinked. “No, I care about you, I care about everyone. I love being a hero and helping people. But…I can’t be like that if I don’t have the suit and if I don’t have the suit…what am I supposed to do?”

“You keep being our dispatcher and you keep helping us become better people. Civilians aren’t the only people who need to be rescued.” 

“It’s not that simple.” 

“Sounds pretty fucking simple to me.” 

“Victor-”

“What can I do to make you convinced that you need to be here? You are just as important here as you were flying around in that pile of metal. I mean, shit, if you really think about it, it’s just a bigger version of you. The suit didn’t make you Mecha Man, you did. You’re still a hero…just a hero with a desk job.” 

“...It’s weird hearing a motivational speech come from you.” 

“I’ve been watching a few videos about it, won’t lie.” 

Robert gave a snort. Allowing himself to be pulled into a soft embrace, eyes closing as he relaxed against the hybrid. “Thank you.”

“Any time…and I have no doubt Royd’ll fix this all up in no time. He’s smart, he’s gotten weirder and way more broken this working again. I have faith in him.” 

“I do too.”

“Good…” Knowing that Robert couldn’t see him, Sonar’s smile fell. His face reflecting the fear and worry suddenly weighing him down from that conversation. “Hey, Robert.”

“Yeah?”

“I will officially quit every substance known to mankind…if you promise you’ll always come to me if you start feeling like this again.”

“...Yeah…I can do that.”

“Promise?”

“Promise.”

Royd took a few steps back from the window. Propping himself up using the wall behind him as he stared at the ceiling. Whatever conversation he’d been expecting, it wasn’t that, and he wasn’t sure how he felt about it. In a few seconds, Royd was shaking his head and directed himself back to the elevator. Already working out a plan on talking to Blonde Blazer and Chase about a few things involving the new dispatcher. 

He may not know how to fix this, but at least Royd had people to rely on. 

And so did Robert.

__________________________________________

Punch Up

Look, he didn’t really want to say this. Especially after Robert had the brilliant idea to cut Coop from the group. But Punch Up had to admit the newest dispatcher was starting to grow on him a little. In some annoying but endearing way. Like the kind of affection an older brother gets with a younger sibling kind of vibe. The ‘I’ll kick the ass of anyone who picks on you’ mentality that melded with the ‘I’ll make your life hell by being annoying’ type shit. 

Honestly, it was kind of fun. 

Didn’t change the fact that he was still salty over the loss of someone important to him.Punch Up, having got his ‘payback’ out of the way against Robert, now had to find other means to get the frustration out. Which meant more time at the gym and he wasn’t going to complain about that. It looked better on paper if Punch Up showed his strength through destroyed equipment than broken bodies. 

For the times that he’d used SDN’s built in gym, Punch Up had been surprised and a little eager to run into Robert there. At first, his plan of action was to figure out how to ‘kindly’ ask the other to a match in the sparring area to ‘fairly’ kick his ass. Another plan to get some revenge for Coop, by beating the shit out of the dispatch under the guise of training. Only for that to be completely forgotten about when he saw how fast the other was moving against the punching bag. The strong man had to break his silence as he asked Robert to actually spar. Not to humiliate, but out of pure curiosity. 

Punch Up had never been happier to see how determined this normie was. Robert didn’t just take a punch. He took it, stored that energy, and brought it right back with a hit of his own. What he lacked in strength, he made up for tenacity and speed. Punch Up even started to refer to Robert as a gnat with how much the normie seemed to swarm. Something that Robert wasn’t really a fan of, but eventually grew to tolerate it. If anything, he understood that Punch Up’s way of being endearing was far different from others. 

The duo’s sparring matches started to become a weekly thing, mainly nearing the end of the working days to help keep the momentum going. Eventually leading to Robert bringing Sonar with him one night after work and explaining that the hybrid had asked for help in the ‘fighting’ department. 

“I thought ye was jus’ the brains o’ the group?” Punch Up stated after Robert’s explanation. 

Sonar’s fur puffed slightly at that, the hybrid crossing his arms. “Well…yeah, I’m still going to rely on the thing between my ears. But I’m not a fan of only being able to really ‘fight’ if I’m my monster form.”

“You said you’d stop calling it that.” Robert frowned. 

“I don’t know what else to call it.” Sonar mumbled back. 

Punch Up looked between the two as they shared a look. Eyes squinting, his mind was trying to tell him that he was missing something. But the concern over it quickly disappeared as Punch Up just went back to the fact he would have two sparring partners. One that was rather new to this, and that made it all the more exciting. “Happy ta have ye on board lad! ‘Nother fighter on the team be exactly what we need!”

“I’m not sure about that,” Robert argued back weakly, “But I’m also not super against it. Having better ways to defend yourself would make me feel better.”

From then on, it became a normal occurrence to see the three of them at the SDN branch after work. Taking turns to do a few one-on-one rounds before ending the workout with an ‘all out’ brawl that had them all doing their best to be the last one standing. Either ending with Punch Up the winner due to his strength, or Robert with his endurance. Sonar took it all in stride, verbally acknowledging that he still had a ways to go before triumphing over either of them. It was something Punch Up admired and told the hybrid. 

“Ye ain’t takin’ short cuts,” he’d told Sonar one night, “That be the important thin’.”

The hybrid just smiled back. 

The routine had become something that kept up the strong man’s motivation. To the point that he decided that he needed to get more strength training for himself. As an assurance that his body could still handle more than the average powered person. So, on a random Tuesday, Punch Up pulled himself out of bed, questioned why the hell he was doing this since he had to get up so early, and left his small apartment. Making it to the SDN station after a rather quiet commute. Completely missing the sole car in the parking lot as he made his way in. 

Punch Up was contemplating which set he wanted to work on first as he made his way to the gym when his musings were interrupted by an unexpected noise. But one that he was very familiar with. Someone was already there and using the punching bag. While he couldn’t see them, Punch Up could tell by the random and rather frantic sounds that whoever was in there didn’t really have a form. They were just attacking that thing as hard and as fast as they could. 

Concerned that whoever this was could potentially hurt themselves, Punch Up increased his pace. Entering the gym just as a sound of fury echoed in the area. One that gave the strong man pause, quickly deciding he needed to see what was happening before he actually intervened. Peering into the room, he found Sonar. Alone. Hands wrapped up but showing clear damage as the fabrics were slowly turning red. Form hunched over as the hybrid glared at the bag.

Punch Up was about to ask if Sonar was okay when the hybrid released another cry. One filled with anger, pain, and frustration. The other’s form shifted and changed as he attacked the punching back once more in his bat form. No longer hitting it. But throwing, tearing, and biting with every chance he could until it was nothing more than scrapes and a pile of sand. Red eyes glaring at the destruction as Sonar panted. 

Maybe it wasn’t the best time for Punch Up to be there. Having decided that this was a situation he was not really equipped to handle and that he needed to leave before it got worse, he took a step back. Only for his plan of escape to quickly come to a  halt as Sonar’s head suddenly swiveled. Not towards Punch Up, but to the other entrance. Both occupants watched with held breath as the sound of clicking drew closer. 

The next moment, Beef walked in, tongue out and heading straight for the bat. Who gave a small whimper and darted to the furthest corner. Trying to make himself as small as possible, which didn’t stop Beef from reaching Sonar. 

Just as the dog flopped onto his side in front of the hybrid, clearly asking for belly rubs, Robert walked in. Carrying take out and coffee. Attention immediately on the large form trapped in the corner by his dog. The dispatcher gave a small sigh before placing the items in a nearby chair and approached Sonar. 

“Hey.” Robert said, voice even as he stood in front of the other. “I have a feeling I know what this is about. But, do you want to talk about it?”

Sonar huffed, uncrunching himself slightly, trying to not to make eye contact with the other. “You saw the article.”

“Yeah, I tend to keep track of anything related to the Z-Team. Was the first thing I saw this morning.” 

“Then we don’t need to talk about it.”

“Need is a strong word. We should talk about it because clearly you need to get this anger out of your system.” Robert sat down, learning back against the wall before patting his legs. Looking pointedly at Sonar. Who let out a huff but didn’t complain about using the other’s lap as a pillow. “So…”

“Why can’t they just leave me alone?” Sonar started, “They’ve already disowned me. Left me on my own. Barely raised me. And now this?”

“It’s low hanging fruit,” Robert replied as he combed his fingers through the wild fur, “I’m guessing something bad is going on in their sad part of the world. And to make themselves feel better, they need to belittle someone else.”

“So they belittle the monster they brought into the world.” 

“I told you to stop calling yourself that.” 

“What else would you call me?”

“You’re Sonar. You're Victor. You’re not a creature, or a freak, or a monster. You’re someone just trying to make a good life for yourself, that’s all. If they can’t see that, then it’s their own fault. You have a lot of people, more important people, pulling for you. I need you to understand that Victor.” 

“He’s right, lad.” Punch Up didn’t flinch as eyes snapped towards him. Nor when Sonar gave a low warning growl. “Oi, stow that kind of talk. I’ve taken down men twice ye size without issue. I can do it again.”

“What are you doing here so early?” Sonar asked. 

“I should be askin’ ye the same thin’. But…I can piece it together.” Punch Up sat down, giving Beef a few scratches before continuing. “Family ain’t shite, none o’ that ‘blood relation’ bull talk here. Tis way friends be the better half ye can rely on. Ye get to pick who stays in that circle o’ trust. It be a gamble sometimes, sure, but it be worth it when it works out.” 

“Do you think Sonar’s a monster?” Robert asked. 

“No more than I am a freak. And I ain’t no freak.”

“I would probably be the freak out of this group, honestly. A normie who’s a hero, that has to be weird.” 

“I second that.” Punch Up laughed when Robert pushed his shoulder with a foot. The strong man played along and ‘moved’ in a rather dramatic fashion. “Alright, enough of this. If we’re gonna be here, then we’re gonna train. Come on, up you two. We got a few hours before work, and I ain’t lettin’ ya wallow any longer.” 

__________________________________________

Waterboy & Phenomaman

Waterboy knew that being a hero wasn’t an easy job. From everything he’d ever seen or read, this position came with a lot of mental, emotional, and physical damage. Very few people make it big, with fewer really enjoying the fame that came with it. But, even with knowing the highs and lows, Waterboy was determined to make this work. 

It had been a bit of a blow when he’d been first hired as a janitor for the SDN branch. Having to survive a few weeks of people telling him to move, or he was doing it wrong, or- 

The main focus for this was that Waterboy was only on the Z-Team because someone finally believed in him. Someone that wasn’t his grandmother. There will never be enough donuts in the world that could convey how thankful he was that Robert trusted him like this. And yes, while the original members of the Z-Team were jerks at the beginning (and kind of now), it was more rewarding in gaining their trust than outright having it. The comments at the beginning Waterboy could have done without. Still didn’t change the fact that he finally felt like he’d earned a place among that group. 

“Herm, are you almost ready?”

“Just abou- Almost- Y-Yes!” Herm eventually got out. Letting out a small sigh of defeat as he looked himself over in the mirror. Already seeing spots of water forming on his civilian clothes even with his suit underneath. But there wasn’t much for that.

He was soon making his way down the stairs cautiously, avoiding cat tails and slipping on his own water. Finding his grandmother sitting on the couch, covered by her more clingy felines as she watched the tv. She looked over as Herm approached with a warm smile. 

“Are you sure you’ll be alright?”

“I’ll be…it’s fine, not a… Easy, it’ll b-be an easy…trip out. Shouldn’t be…just a few… Won’t be out- gone long,” Herm assured, “Phenoma- Phenomal- Man will be here soon.” 

“I’m so happy to hear you’re making friends and helping your other colleagues out. Such a good boy. Don’t forget the list and the card on the counter. Pick up something for you two to enjoy as well, nice little treat for you two to share.” 

Herm flushed at that. “G-Grandma this- we’re not- It’s not a d-date… I… I’ll… Thanks gran.”

“Of course, say hi to your friend for me.”

“W-Will…can do!”

After gathering the offered items and moving around the dangerous maze of cats to the front door, Herm gave a final goodbye before leaving the house. Sighing deeply again as he sat on the front porch, eyes scanning the sky. 

Herm wasn’t sure why it happened, but Phenomaman had recently taken it upon himself to suddenly be attached to the water user. Sure, the newest hero had come across the other while Phenomaman was watching his old fights with Blonde Blazer. Herm felt a stab of slight jealousy seeing how fast and strong the two were, knowing he’d never amount to that. But that issue had been quickly pushed aside when Phenomaman started talking to him. 

About everything. 

The joy of being in a battle with Blonde Blazer at his side. How she looked and talked and laughed. Her personality and how she was someone who always looked for the best in people. Which just made Phenomaman worry because why else would she leave him if he wasn’t the most perfecting being? Was he flawed beyond her help? 

Herm wasn’t sure what he had said in response to all of that. Probably because his star struck nature being around his hero and already frazzled nerves made his memory breakdown during that part. But whatever had been said was enough for Phenomaman to cheer up. Thanking Herm before he left the room, leaving the new hero a little stunned that he was still upright. And that he’d been able to help. 

From that moment on, Phenomaman had seemed to believe that staying closer to Herm was his ticket to getting out of the mood he was in. And while Herm was happy to help, he wasn’t quite sure what he was supposed to do. So, he went to the only person that he could trust for advice. 

“It sounds like this boy needs a good friend, and he’s found that in you,” his grandmother offered, “Also sounds as if he’s not quite sure of our customs. Maybe having someone show him the ways we on Earth interact would help him sort out all this confusion.”

That advice, somehow, ended up turning into a bi-weekly meeting. One weekday after work and one weekend during a few hours, Herm would show Phenomaman a new aspect on ‘human life’ or would take the time to review previously discussed items. This day’s particular topic was grocery shopping. Something that Phenomaman would normally have someone else handle for him, or would even just eat out. But in starting the tradition with Herm had become one of the more requested areas of focus. 

“Hello, Boy of Water.”

Herm looked up hearing the now familiar voice of Phenomaman as the superhero floated down. The newer hero standing up and meeting the other at the bottom step of the porch. “Y-You don’t… Just call- Herm, my name is H-Herm. W-When not….working.” 

 “Yes, I do keep forgetting about that option. My apologies for stating the wrong name.” Phenomaman had landed at this point, Herm now able to get a better look at the other’s ‘civilian’ outfit. Color coordination was not his thing, apparently. “Shall we go and partake in the ritual of store harvesting?”

“Y-Yeah, yeah, we can… Let’s get shopping.”

“Phenomenal! Please lead the way, Herm.” 

The grocery store near Herm’s home was used to seeing the two enter in together at this point. The shop keepers had been starstruck at first when Phenomaman accompanied the first time. Doing the usual rounds of asking for autographs or pictures with the well known hero.  But all had settled into a comfortable routine now that the amazement of it all had faded away. 

Herm had grabbed a cart, making sure to wrap extra paper towels around the handle to try and stem the water, and turned to his companion. 

“S-So, any new… Got a- Interesting recipes to…to try?” 

“A few that I have been able to save on my cellular device, very interesting items.” 

“C-Cool! Which area- What do you want… Where to first?” While Herm was interested in helping Phenomaman, the hero’s reply became muted when the water user noticed movement from the corner of his eye. A familiar face catching his attention. 

Robert had just left an aisle, a shopping basket resting in the crook of his arm that was filled up pretty high already. The dispatcher was currently eyeing the meats on display. More specifically, the fully intact, with faces included packages. Herm’s confusion was already set to ‘Why is Robert of all people looking at those items’ that quickly rose to ‘Is that Sonar?’ as the hybrid appeared. Having walked down a different aisle, pushing a cart in front of him.

Robert only looked away when the reformed villain said his name. Furrow brows softened as he turned to Sonar and they both began moving items from one basket to the other. Once done, Robert turned back to the display and said something that was completely missed by Herm, he was too far away to hear. Sonar’s ears twitched, wide eyes soon crinkled as a smile broke out. The hybrid stepped out from behind the cat to wrap his arms around the other. 

It took everything in Herm to not utter a single sound of shock when Robert’s face flushed, the dispatcher suddenly looking embarrassed. Something that Sonar laughed at before placing a kiss on the dispatcher’s cheek and taking the now empty carrying basket. The hybrid plucked a few packages off the shelves and placed them in the cart before departing. No doubt intending to return the basket before helping Robert once more. 

The dispatcher said something before taking the helm, hands gripping the handle and looking up. Only to freeze when his and Herm’s eyes connected. The dispatcher no doubt wondered what all had been witnessed and the new hero in shock over what he’d just discovered. It only lasted a few seconds before Robert turned and headed down the next aisle. Herm let it go because he really had nothing to offer at that moment. More shocked that it was Sonar and not Invisigal that Robert had hooked up with. 

“Herm, am I permitted to ask a question?” Phenomaman’s voice suddenly sounding finally got Herm to squeak in surprise.

“Y-Yes- Yeah, sure…what’s… Yeah?”

“Are there relations allowed of the same gender?”

“Oh, y-yeah! Yeah, it’s…it’s fine. Not really widely… Some people still don’t… H-Hate’s a powerful thing.”

“I see, that’s terrible to hear of the hate for such an affair. But it is good to see the third Robertson finding strong companionship with the hybrid.” 

“Yeah…Yeah it is.” 

__________________________________________

Golem

The courtyard was the best place at the SDN headquarters, if anyone cared to ask Golem’s opinion. Which not a lot of people did. But he didn’t care as that meant less people he'd have to fight with for space. 

The enclosed area allowed for a wonderful amount of sunlight to come in, which was wonderful since the building itself was so cold. Golem could actually feel parts of himself dry out to a dangerous degree if he was inside for too long. There was also a great sense of privacy, less people stared at him as they passed by, and he wasn’t exactly the most welcoming thing to see if you’re trying to find help. Birds frequented the area as well, Golem’s favorite animals. They don’t mind that he’s so big and actually used him as a perch. Finding some kind of grub in whatever material he’s recently taken. 

Final conclusion: Courtyard, 10/10, would use again. 

It was lunch time for the Z-Team, meaning time for Golem to sit in his favorite area and eat whatever nutrient he could partake in from the ground. He paid no mind to the people who darted out of his way. Knowing that sounds kind of like an ass thing to say. But it’s easier for smaller people to move around him then having to wait for his form to lumber to the side. His lunch, which just consisted of whatever loose material he found on his way to work stuffed into a plastic bag, was tucked into the crook of his arm. 

He was ready to have a quiet break. Away from everyone as he took a few moments to himself and to enjoy the rather nice weather the city had been having for awhile. The plan, while a simple one, hit a bit of a bump that Golem had not been expecting. And not one that he’d been really expecting. 

The courtyard was already occupied by Robert, Beef, and (most shockingly to Golem) Sonar. Beef was exploring the area, making sure to check back to his companions resting under the tree and to get a bit to eat before wandering off again. Sonar and Robert were underneath the large tree, with the former picking as his own meal while flipping through a magazine. Completely uncaring as Robert was using the hybrid as a pillow, the dispatcher completely out. 

Golem was careful with his movements as he walked in. Catching Beef’s attention first as the dog perked up and walked over to the construct. Taking a few sniffs before flopping to his side, ready to receive belly rubs. Which Golem was more than happy to provide. With that transaction done, Beef set off again to find new smells. 

Sonar had looked up at this point, slowly lowering the magazine to his lap so as to not jostle Robert too much as the hybrid watched Golem. On his part, Golem made his way closer to the duo. Stopping a few feet in front and offering a nod as a silent request to sit down. Sonar nodded, offering a smile as he patted the ground next to him. With Golem appreciating the gesture even if he couldn’t sit directly next to the hybrid. 

The ground shook slightly as Golem sat. Enough to disturb Robert to where his face scrunched up, as if about to wake. The minor crisis was averted as Sonar nuzzled, actually nuzzled, the top of Robert’s head, which calmed the dispatcher immediately. Allowing the other to fall back into a deeper state of sleep. 

Golem watched all of this with quiet interest. Tilting his head in curiosity when Sonar looked back at him. “How long?”

“Few weeks.” Sonar whispered. 

“Cool.”

“Yeah.”

“Cute couple." 

“Thanks.”

“Anyone else know?”

“A few.”

“Lips are sealed.”

“Thanks big guy.”

And that was that.

Golem turned to his lunch and began eating. Being a bit more mindful of how loud he was chewing as to not wake Robert. Sonar returned to his magazine, taking small bites of his meal as he read. Eventually leaning over enough to rest his head on top of Robert’s. Who started to snore softly. 

Beef continued to sniff around. 

__________________________________________

Coupe

Big rule of life: Do your best to never end up on a hit list. That was something SDN did not take into consideration when they had the fucking audacity to put Coupe’s career on the chopping block. Then followed through with actually cutting her from the Z-Team. Her, an actual fucking assassin with years of experience in handling tough situations. Solo, might she add. 

And who the fuck got to stay after all of that? Sonar, the drug user who’s only real skill was talking to someone until they begged for death just to get away from him. What an actual fucking joke. It was clear that her talents were a waste on that place… That didn’t make the sting of rejection hurt any less. 

Joining the Red Ring was not really the ship that Coupe had intended to jump on. All she had ever heard about them was that of low level crooks and thieves that had decided to make a group. Nothing that interested her as Coupe only worked on big payouts and she didn’t work with teams. Especially with what happened last time she was forced onto one. 

Her distaste quickly changed, however, when she was brought to Shroud. The apparently ‘leader’ of this group. Who was nothing more than someone who offered shiny toys in exchange for loyalty under the guise of paying off debts. Clever. Something that Coupe admired and agreed to immediately. Especially when Shroud promised revenge against the people who had wronged her the most. 

Well, almost everyone. 

Shroud had made it clear that Robert was not to be touched by Coupe unless ordered to do so. Something that did not sit well with the assassin, but knew that she needed to remain professional. So she agreed to back off. Concluding for herself that her anger could now be turned towards the other two who had wronged her.

Blonde Blazer and Sonar. 

Hatred against Blonde Blazer was an easy one to work out. She ran SDN, she agreed to let someone from the Z-Team go, she didn’t back them at all. Anything she has said about supporting the Phoenix Program was shotgunned out the window the moment Blazer agreed to cut someone. Coupe had every right in wanting to see the super hero fall. 

Technically, Coupe shouldn’t feel any hatred towards her once fellow Z-Team member. They were both in a bad position when it came down to it and it was just luck that had allowed the hybrid to stay. But even he should have known how stupid of an idea it had been to cut Coupe. He should have said something, he should have fought to keep her there. Sonar should have surrendered his position for Coupe the moment he understood what had happened. 

Coupe had a reason to remain on that team and the skills to back it up. Sonar had nothing to offer and should have known better. It was literally the least he could have done, and he didn’t even do that correctly. 

So while Shroud continued to build his army and plan in the shadows, Coupe kept an eye on her ‘old team’. Her stomach twisted in fury seeing how closer they were getting. How they’d seem to have forgotten about her. Even Colm seemed to have moved on, which stung the most. The man she loved, still loves, was leaving her behind. 

All the while, Sonar continued to grow. Somehow learning how to better defend the team and become a better fighter. Built bonds with the members that had found him disgusting before. Even found romance with that fucking dispatcher of all people. The very person who had told Coupe she wasn’t good enough to stay with them. Now unknowingly flaunting to the assassin how well their lives were without her there. A romance that was stronger than she’d like to admit. All stewing in her as it built towards its boiling point. 

There was something satisfying in commanding Red Ring members to destroy the city that had abandoned her. Coupe watched the chaos unfold as she casually hovered over all of the destruction. A tight smile appeared on her face in hearing how stretched thin the heroes were, already confident in believing Shroud was going to win this easily. After all, he’d predicted his victory and Coupe had no reason to doubt it.

So while the ‘innocents’ of the city ran in fear, Coupe turned her attention to the sky. Eyes scanning as she searched for a familiar form. Without turning away, Coupe activated her earpiece, knowing that everyone at SDN would be able to hear this. “Come on out, Sonar. You and I have some unfinished business to take care of.” 

“Is that a call out that I hear?” Sonar replied back, his voice just barely containing how pissed he was. “Hey, fair question, was that your fucking idea to put me in a cage?”

“It’s the best place to keep freaks like you. Besides, I had an interested buyer who’s a big fan of hybrids. Has a fun little game he plays with them. Figured you’d want in on it.” 

“You motherfucking bitch.”

“Sonar, keep it together.” Robert entered the conversation as he tried to keep an even voice. But Coupe could hear the frustration and panic in the normie’s voice. 

“So wonderful to hear your voice again, Robert,” Coupe said casually, “Tell me, which do you think would hurt you the most? Having the city know who you were…or having them know who you’re with?” 

“Coop, whatever personal grudge that you have against me, I get it. But this isn’t the way to-”

“You don’t fucking get to tell me how do to things. You are no longer my boss, I call the shots. And right now, I’m calling out Sonar. Let’s see if Robert’s faith in you was really that sound, you rat with wings.” 

“When I fucking get down there-”

“Sonar, don’t! At least have Malevola go with you!”

“I’m handling this on my own Robert.”

“Yes, Robert, let the idiot be an idiot. Don’t worry, I’ll put on a good show for you. I might even give you one final goodbye before the life finally drains from Sonar’s eyes.” 

“Sonar-”

“I’ll be back, promise.”

“Victor, don’t you fucking dare!” 

Coupe smirked at the slip in the name. She’d never heard the dispatcher this broken before and she revealed in the fact it was all because of her. 

The familiar sound of heavy wings sounded Sonar’s arrival. Coupe was just able to make out two red glowing eyes staring her down as the hybrid drew closer. But that rage only made the assassin more excited to take the other down. 

“Get your final farewells in, gentlemen. I’ll make sure you’re at least buried together.” 

__________________________________________

Blonde Blazer

Intuition came with being a hero. Whether you’re raised with or it’s something that you gain while being on the field. Heroes need to have that part of their brain that catches the out of place items and stores it for later. It’s helped Blonde Blazer with more than a few cases involving the transfers of stolen goods or with missing people. 

The problem that came with this, however, was that there’s no way to really turn that insight off. It was annoying the number of times her brain would latch onto a catchy commercial jingle and will not let go for any reason. Between her hero job, running the SDN branch, and having a sort of social life, the rather useless information rattling around Blazer’s head was just annoying. If not distracting when she needs to run through so many topics to find what she actually needs at that moment. 

Her first sight of Robert and Sonar getting close happened a few days after the reformed villain’s mandatory nap. As Robert had called it. Blazer had found them in the small kitchen / breakroom area. Leaning against the counter as they passed time while their respective lunches warmed up. No doubt talking about random topics. With Robert seeming to keep the more NSFW topics away from their discussion as best he could. 

Blazer thought nothing of it, happily assuming they’d just gotten closer because Robert actually got the other to rest. The superhero enjoyed the fact that the ‘retired’ hero was getting closer to his team. It made her assurance of selecting Robert to help that much stronger.

Only to be taken aback when Sonar turned so that he had Robert trapped, the smirk on the hybrid’s face becoming a little predatory. 

Instinct took over for a moment as Blazer started making her way over. She knew Robert could handle himself, no issues. But she didn’t feel like having to deal with bad light being casted onto Sonar if things turned south quickly. Plus, less destruction that would need to be cleaned up, the better.

That worry was quickly forgotten about when Robert casually pulled Sonar’s tie from the coat and brought the hybrid down into a kiss. 

Blazer almost fell forward with how hard she stopped herself. Eyes widening as her brain caught up with what she was looking at. The contact between the two only lasted for a few seconds before Robert was pushing the other off. Giving a scolding look while Sonar smiled back with hands raised in defence. Their attention went back to the microwave that was going off at this point. Robert pulled a plate out with two burritos on it and handed it over to Sonar. Who put it on the table and plopped himself in a chair while Robert brought two drinks over and claimed the other seat. 

In a span of only a minute, Blazer’s full view of the duo has completely shifted. What had once been the concept of a better mentorship being built was blown out of the water and replaced with a full romance option. 

Well…good, that’s good. If Robert couldn’t find comfort or partnership with her, then Blazer was thankful the ‘retired’ hero had been able to rely on someone to trust. Even if there was a stab of jealousy mixed in with the stunned emotions.

After that moment, Blazer had started to keep a closer eye on the two. Practically catching every small glance and touches that occurred in the office. Watching with relief as Robert started to relax more. How Malevola reported the decrease in Sonar’s dependency on drugs. Even noticed that the Z-Team started to work together better, as if all understanding that something big had happened in that group. It was an interesting and well received change.

When Chase fell into critical condition, Blazer couldn’t think of anyone better than Sonar to help Robert at that low point. When Sonar was called out by Coop to fight, Blazer knew Robert was back at SDN on the edge of his seat, waiting to know that the hybrid would be okay. When Shroud attacked the SDN location, it was Sonar who knew something was wrong first. 

“Robert’s not answering.” The hybrid called out, turned towards Blonde Blazer with a look of panic in his eyes.

“What?”

“Robert, no one’s heard from him and with how this day is going, I’d expect something from him at this point. But…he’s quiet.” 

It was the first time Blazer had heard Sonar of all people to sound so panicked. Not a hint of the laid back, monotone, sarcastic nature the superhero had grown accustomed to hearing. The hybrid was in full blown panic mode in realizing that Robert was in serious danger. 

“Get back to SDN,” Blonde Blazer said, “Get as many of the Z-Team with you as you head over. I’ll get who I can and meet you there.”

“Right.”

“Sonar.”

The hybrid, stumbling slightly as he had to halt his start, looked back up. “Yeah?”

“...Keep him safe…”

“I planned on it.”

Blazer offered a final nod as she watched Sonar take off. The hybrid quickly changed into his full bat form and took to the skies. The superhero watched for only a second longer to make sure no one from the Red Ring attacked before going out to the Z-Team. 

This was their last stand…and she had no idea how it was going to end.

__________________________________________

Invisigal

Courtney had learned from a very young age that if you wanted something, you just take it. Especially if money was not an option. You’re hungry? Just grab something from the gas station when no one’s looking. You need a ride? Slide onto the bus and stick to the back to make it hard to see. Having issues paying rent? Just steal some kind of trinket and sell it fast at the sleaziest pawn shop you can find. 

It wasn’t the best life, sure. But when your survival depends on that kind of thinking, then it’s all you became. You don’t care about anyone else because your brain has been wired to only think about you. Besides, if the world wasn’t going to help you, why not just help yourself?

That world view shifted hard the night Invisigal joined Shroud’s crew. The night was supposed to set her up for life. To be out of debt with an augmentation that would make it so she could steal like never before. A way to get so much more than a free showing at the movie theater. 

It was supposed to be simple. Get a bomb on the back of Mecha Man and get off without being detected. Easy. It should have been a no brainer. It became complicated when Invisigal started making her way back up after being unintentionally knocked off from her perch. Having to grip onto the burnt hole Toxic had made in the armor to pull herself back up. Allowing her a good look into the inner workings of the machine. 

And more importantly, to the clear view of the person piloting it. 

She wasn’t sure what had happened. Invisigal had enough people glare at her and through her and it never caused an upset like this. Maybe it was the fact that she saw not only intense rage but also extreme sadness mixed together in the exhausted eyes that looked out. Maybe it was the fact that it was clear Mecha Man was fighting for his life but also had an air of accepting this could be the end. Maybe…it was knowing that even heroes could look as absolutely done with the world that she always felt. 

Whatever the reason, it hit Invisigal hard. Hard enough to walk away from that building before the fireworks even went off. Feeling her augmentation shut down as she sat in her car to think about her next move. 

The next day, she joined the Phoenix Program. She’d been hearing talk about it for a while now. A stupid plan to get villains to turn good. She laughed at it, at first. Having no doubt that the well offs in the world believed that with the right motivation, any one could be good. Seeming to forget that villains are more often born because of strife and not ‘just because’. But what had happened the night before, she decided that’s exactly what she needed. Maybe that accountability will set her on a better path.

So Invisigal became one of many to make up the Z-Team. Appropriately named since the team consists of nothing but villains, meaning the last people you would want to see in a life-or-death situation. It was already an uncomfortable situation as it was clear no one there really knew what they were doing. Probably all grasping at straws like she was in some attempt to feel better about their fucked up lives. 

It was even worse when they were actually sent out on missions. Each dispatcher was either an ass of some kind or just wasn’t building to handle the people on the team. Incapable of actually helping the team. Leading to more turn arounds on the commanding end than the villain end. All heading towards the cherry on top of the already shitty sundae that was Invisigal’s life. 

The newest dispatcher just had to be Mecha Man, didn’t he? Because it was hard enough to know she was trying to do better to make up for the shit she’d done to him. But to follow that with having to have him lead the team she was a part of? Invisigal really must have pissed someone to get into this kind of situation. 

She played it off at first. She was already heading straight for failure before Robert came on and her sour attitude clearly did not help. Not that she cared. But the more that she pushed back, the more Robert seemed to return the pressure. Reaching a point in which Invisigal realized what made this dispatcher so much different that the others. 

He cared. 

Robert cared about his team, about Invisigal, doing better. Being better. It wasn’t a song or dance put on to entertain the higher ups into thinking this was a good idea. Robert wanted this to succeed, wanted the Z-Team to succeed. Everyone felt it in that boardroom, even if Robert’s speech was a little cheesy. But no one could deny that determination coming from their dispatcher, and it would be a pretty shitty thing to let that speech go to waste. 

Sure, Invisigal needed a little more motivation after that. At least Robert had made it interesting with the concept of getting ‘one more in’ before having to hang up the hero title. Because there was no way she was going to earn enough points to stay. Except, she did. She took down the Thunderfuck whatever guy and carted him back to SDN for transport. Got to see her name climb the leaderboard. Got to stay longer to prove that this wasn’t a one time mishap. 

Admiration turned to something deeper after that moment. Invisigal turning her wants of redemption to wanting all of Robert’s attention. To have him look at her like he would any hero. To just look at her like she wasn’t some mistake, that she meant something, anything, to him. She wanted him to know her as Courtney, not the absolute mess that was Invisigal. She wanted him, Courtney wanted Robert. 

But it never happened. 

Robert chose to let Invisigal enjoy the movie by herself. 

Robert chose to only help Invisigal with being a hero.

Robert…chose Sonar. Chose Victor.

She wasn’t even sure how or why it happened. All Invisigal knew was that one moment everything was normal and she had that determination burning to get Robert to actually look at her. Next, she found Robert and Sonar making out. In the bathroom. At the bar where the entire Z-Team was hanging out. And in that moment, Courtney completely crumbled away. Leaving only the mess that was Invisigal behind, because that’s all Robert would ever see in her. 

It was a bitter pill to swallow, leaving her actually feeling worse than before. Because she was right back at square one. Just looking for redemption in what she had done towards Mecha Man. Which just led her to making an even bigger mistake. Having Robert lose the Astral Pulse and almost losing Chase. Resulting her in getting kicked off the team, a deserved action that left Invisigal rotting at the bottom of her barrel. Even if Robert stood up for her. Which just made all of this so much harder for her to handle.

In one final attempt to feel something good, Invisigal told Robert everything. About her part in his coma and losing his suit. That he was only in this position because she put him there. 

And the fucking idiot forgave her. Because of course he would. 

But Robert had Blonde Blazer, and the rest of the Z-Team to look to for finding true heroes. He had Sonar there to care for his heart. Robert didn’t need her there, didn’t need to look after Invisigal anymore. Because she had failed him in every aspect and she couldn’t be the reason to bring him down. 

It was a series of rather hilariously timed moments that brought Invisigal back to Shroud. Letting the wanna be hero know what the plan was in taking down SDN. In taking down Mecha Man. In taking down Robert. All of it sitting wrong in Invisigal as she listened to Shroud. And as the leader reached the conclusion of his speech to talk about why he deserved this victory, it dawned on Invisigal. Something that had been missing before. 

She was doing it for all the wrong reasons. Being a hero, turning her life around, she wasn’t doing it for herself. She was doing it for Robert. For Mecha Man. To gain forgiveness for a shitty action that almost cost someone their life. She needed to be a hero because she wanted to be a hero. She wanted to leave this life behind and that wasn’t going to happen by feeling bad about this. 

Invisigal fucked up, no questions. But the change had to be more than just suddenly deciding to be part of some program. Or be part of a team. Or to desperately get the attention of someone who would never look at her that way. She had to do it for herself, that’s what she missed from Robert’s talk. It’s not about him. It’s about her. 

It’s about Courtney.

And Courtney wanted to go out on a high note. 

“Didn’t know a bullet wound would hurt this much.” Invisigal commented as she laid on the stretcher. Looking over to Robert with a smirk. The dispatcher looked a little less pleased about the comment. 

“Kind of wish you still didn’t know.” 

“Shut up, I saved your life. What you should be saying to me is a nice ‘thank you’. Can I hear that? Those two words?”

“You’re an idiot.”

“Wow, not even close.” Invisigal’s laugh quickly turned into a hiss of pain when she moved her shoulder. A warm hand was quickly placed over her’s to offer comfort. 

“Take it easy, no sudden movements.” Robert said. 

“Relax mom, I’m fine. Pretty sure I’m in the best hands possible.” 

“Just don’t make it worse for yourself.” 

“Would you stop babying me and go check on the rest of the team.”

Robert raised a brow, “The rest of the team weren’t shot at.”

“Neither was I technically, I still want that thank you.” Invisigal turned away slightly hearing the paramedics coming back. Letting out a sigh as she looked back towards Robert. “I’m about to be shipped off here in a few seconds. Go, check on everyone else… Make sure your batboner of a boyfriend is okay.”

Invisigal couldn’t help but laugh seeing the absolutely stunned face Robert was making at that, Totally worth it for the few more seconds of shoulder pain. “Oh, my God, your face! Fuck, I wish I could take a picture of that.”

“Courtney-”

“I’m not joking, go. Give ‘im a big old kiss for me.”

“Don’t say shit like that.”

“Only if you go now.” Courtney didn’t put up a fight as she was wheeled away. Giving a nod to Robert as she lied back. Watching as the dispatcher did just she asked. Finding the hybrid in practically no time and pulled him into a surprise kiss. One that Sonar did not fight again. 

Courtney laughed softly hearing the very loud reactions from the rest of the team. Giving a small smile to Golem when he looked her way, a silent moment of understanding passing between the two. A few dozen cameras started going off as Sonar got a little too into the kiss. With Mandy having to rush over to try and control the situation. 

The last thing she saw was the look of complete adoration shared between Robert and Victor. Ambulance doors closing the next second, leaving Courtney with her thoughts as she was pumped with pain killers. It still stung, knowing she’s lost her chance. But, if this stupid program taught her anything, there was more waiting for her. 

Despite what his record might tell you, Victor does care about people. It’s just hard to care about others when said people make it clear they only view you as a ‘monster’. Either telling you outright, which was weirdly enough the nicest thing someone could do, or playing the long con in order to get something. Bottom line is that Victor may be a villain, but he’s putting that blame back at the feet of the people who made his life hell. 

The Medici family, his family, came from old money. His father’s side had deep roots in the entertainment industry while his mother was an only child and inherited the family’s oil tycoon. They were well off before either of them even knew what a job was.

Victor was very aware that he’d been born with the platinum spoon in his mouth, because silver was too cheap for the Medici line. But it did nothing to  help with his social standing in any way. No one wanted to be friends with the freak. It didn’t matter what Victor said, or did, or how much money he would throw at the problem. People would still stay away or take the money and run when they got what they wanted. 

So, Victor turned his attention to trying to be better than anyone else. His name was one letter away from spelling victory, why not lean into that? He’d show everyone that writing him off was a mistake when he paved his own way in life. Living a better life that he created without his parents financial support to get him there. 

Except determination turned to frantic nights of staying up late to ace a test. To finding solace in alcohol and drugs in a desperate attempt to shut his mind up. To paying whatever he could for some sliver, some crumb, of human contact so he didn’t feel like he was drowning. It was by some miracle that he was able to not only pass but graduate Harvard with the highest GPA in his graduating class. 

He did try, after university, to clean himself up. Got a well paying job, rented a high end condo, started going to meetings and even started seeing a counselor.

Fuck, he tried. Not that it really mattered in the end because his only comfort those early years were the drugs that eventually made him make stupid decisions. Crypto, fraud investing, bleeding anyone dry of their money. During that time, Victor had told himself it was the normal route of progression for people in his field. You were supposed to take as much as possible because that’s how you climb the ranks of success in this industry. 

Now, looking back, Victor wondered if he did it as some self gratifying revenge. He didn’t see the faces of his victims. He saw the faces that made him a victim for just existing. 

He really should go back to therapy…

Malevola was the official ‘good’ turning point for Victor. She may be a demon, but the hybrid was sure she was an actual gift from God. She was his first friend, the first person that he could really rely on, that made him feel that his name and status didn’t matter. 

It was hard to accept at first. Victor had played this game before, he knew the usual path. If anything, Malevola had a bit more to worry over as she was technically claiming community service hours by being Victor’s sponsor. Between that and expecting her to only want money out of him, Victor kept his distance. Ready for the facade to fall and for the other to leave. 

Only to realize that Malevola put more money down than he did when they were out. That she planned out how to manage and maintain their shared apartment so they were equals. Going out of her way to make sure Victor talked to her, actually talked to her, about the random stupid stuff that came across his mind. It all hit home for the hybrid when, on a night out at a rather high end restaurant, Malevola snatched up the bill. Looking it over casually before putting her card down. 

“What.” Victor has squeaked out.

“What?” Malevola responded as she passed the bill and her card over to the waiter. 

“I…was expecting to pay.”

“Why? We’re celebrating you tonight, why would I make you pay?”

“The fuck are we celebrating?”

“You officially have one month clean under your belt. That’s major dude, so of course we’re going to eat good food and the best whiskey this place has to offer to commemorate it.” Malevola’s teasing smirk melted into a genuine smile as Victor’s ears drooped in relief. “Hey, you should be proud of yourself.” 

“But…”

“Seriously, even if you fall off the wagon again, you made it so far. I’m really proud of you.” 

She had the decency to look busy on her phone as Victor covered his eyes, trying to keep it together. Managing to long enough to get home before collapsing onto the sofa and openly sobbing. Malevola joined, turning on the tv to play some sitcom while combing her fingers through Victor’s fur. 

Victor knew he was here only because Malevola was there with him. She was even the reason he joined the Phoenix Program. Even if he dug his feet in, because he didn’t feel like ‘super hero’ quality. He still joined. Because she was there. Which was a good thing because Victor wanted to bail out of this stupid thing so many times. 

The team’s first dispatcher was an ass, and not in a fun way. This one only really talked to and sent out the members that were the most ‘human’ looking. Like Flambae, Prism, Invisigal, Punch Up, and Coop. They were sent out the most, given the most attention, and were actually given praise. The rest were treated like trash or were invisible to the dude. Victor, for some reason, taking the brunt of it. He wasn’t sure if it was because he was a hybrid or because he’d fucked this guy’s family over in some way and he just couldn’t remember it. 

Whatever it was, that dispatcher only lasted 5 days before being fired. 

The second one was a little better, but still stayed clear of Victor. Which he was fine with because at least he got some actual action. Job action, not the other kind. This dispatcher only lasted a week because she couldn’t handle the crude jokes and chatter the Z-Team offered. Just decided to not show up one day and left Blonde Blazer scrambling to dispatch the team herself and still run the office. 

The third only lasted 2 days, leaving out of fear when Flambae torched the poor dude’s car. All because he’d sent the hot head on a mission involving water. Sure, Victor could understand where Flambae’s attitude came from with that. But still, poor guy didn’t deserve his car turned extra crispy over it. 

Then came Robert Robertson the Third. A name that confused Victor to no end, especially when everyone started to laugh over communications like they’d just heard the best joke ever. Malevola had to explain the ridiculousness of it to him later, which had Victor landing on Bobert for a good nickname. Because why not? 

Victor didn’t really see anything special in Robert the first time they met in person. The retired hero was skinny, buff skinny, but skinny nonetheless. He had unkempt reddish brown hair, similar colored eyes that carried bags for days, and a posture that said ‘I’m tired but I will fuck you up if you give me a reason’. Robert was even and monotone, Victor believing he should be at a call center instead of a dispatcher with how dead panned his voice was. The hybrid couldn’t really get a good read on the guy. But also didn’t try too hard, believing the dude was going to be gone by the end of the day. 

Especially after the disaster that was Granny’s Donuts Shop. 

Seriously, Invisigal was such an idiot. 

Victor had been getting his lunch the same time Robert walked in. They didn’t acknowledge each other, sticking to opposite sides of the room as they gathered what they needed. It started to get interesting when Invisigal entered, trying to spin the previously mentioned fuck up as an actual job well done. Victor has kept himself from snorting at that comment, instead he tried to focus on making his coffee. 

His coffee, mind you. Whole beans that had to be grounded up because that’s how you got the best flavor out of those suckers. Caffeine, the only legal drug out there. 

“The suit isn’t what made me a superhero. It was how I did my fuckin’ job that made me Mecha Man. Based on what I sway today, you wouldn’t last a day as Mecha Man, ‘cause there isn’t a mech suit in the universe that’ll keep you from being a selfish fuckin’ asshole.”

Victor stared hard into the magazine he was holding, not really taking the information in any longer. The grinder died down, but he still didn’t move.

Holy fuck, their new dispatcher was Mecha Man. The Mecha Man. Holy fuck. They had a living legend in the office and no one knew. Well, okay, some people had to know. Robert was pretty cavalier with that information. Did he not see the giant bat ears on Victor? Did he not get the fact that the ex-villain could still hear everything? What the hell was Victor supposed to do with himself now holding this information?

That worry was quickly forgotten about when Invisigal yelled. Victor floundering for a second to make sure he didn’t drop his magazine. Looking up in just enough time to watch the other ex-villain get a clean punch on Mecha Man’s- No, nope, Robert’s face. The dispatcher went down hard as Invisigal disappeared. Victor was still able to hear her heavy foot falls as she left the room. 

Well, that was an interesting exchange. 

He wasn’t sure why he left the safety of the counter top, but Victor soon found himself standing over Robert. Giving the other a slow look over with the dispatcher staring right back at him. A brow raised with an unspoken ‘Can I help you?’ glare in his eyes. 

“You…” Victor frowned, unsure of what he wanted to say there. 

Are you really Mecha Man?

How are you not dead?

What was it like helping so many people?

All insightful questions that Victor was sure would either get him killed, kicked off the team, or maybe gain him some respect from the hero if he’d been in a good mood. But his mind, in all of its drug-addled glory, stopped at the dumbest option it could provide. 

“You gonna eat those twinks?”

God. Damn. It.

“That’s not what they’re-” Robert let out a sigh before slowly nodding, “You know what, help yourself.” 

So, with nothing else to offer, Victor scooped down and grabbed one of the bags. Taking it, his expensive tasting coffee, and his panicking ass out of the kitchen. 

Well, now what? Victor sat on this information for days, stewing over what his next move should be. He had an interesting hold over Robert and, if he was in his prime years of being an ass, would have used it as leverage. Maybe get him a pay bump or a position that didn’t involve so much work.

Instead, he kept quiet. Quickly coming to the conclusion that he didn’t have the right to spill that kind of information. At the end of the day, they were all just trying to get by. Victor didn’t want to put the spotlight on himself and give Robert one more thing to worry about. So, he told no one, not even Malevola, what he’d learned. 

But he did start paying more attention to Robert. Because it was still a mystery to him that a stick like their new dispatcher was once the pilot for Mecha Man. The interest was first invented into trying to figure Robert out in some way. Like he was a puzzle that Victor had to crack in order to claim the big prize. What that was, he had no idea, but it was the only explanation he could provide for himself as to why he was suddenly so invested in Robert. 

Then, his view of the dispatcher shifted. It was a realization that hit him like a bat (heh) over the head that gave a solid reasoning as to why Victor was interested. Between the banter, the missions, and the slight down time they would have at SDN, Victor was suddenly aware of how Robert treated him. Below the dead panned humor and monotoned lectures, Robert treated Victor like a person.

Not a hybrid. Or a villain. Or a lost cause. 

As a person who lost his way and was trying to be better. Robert didn’t seem like the kind of person to just pretend he was being nice for the sake of claiming something. Robert…was a person treating Victor like a person. 

And that made his insides do something…weird. Something he brought up with Malevola that she pinned down on the spot.

“You have a crush,” the demon shrugged, “It’s no big deal.”

“What? No, I- what?” Victor sputtered. 

“Dude, don’t freak out on me. It’s normal to get crushes.”

“Sure, maybe for you and the normal looking population. But people like me don’t get ‘crushes’ because we know better.”

Malevola raised a brow. “And what do you know better?”

“That I’m either a sick fantasy to someone or their worst nightmare. No one’s interested in me that way, so why should I?”

“Okay, first off, if you think you’re the only person who’s been treated that way, you’re wrong. The number of times I’ve heard ‘step on my, mommy demon’ would make me rich enough to retire. Second, you can’t really control who you find interesting.” 

“Well, I should, because I already know it wouldn’t work out.” 

“You’re making this a worse situation than it actually is. Robert’s being nice to you, you find that hot, but it’ll eventually simmer down. Because you’ll eventually realize that you’re not used to praise and you’ll calm down.”

“I fucking love praise, what are you talking about?”

“Praise in the way of actually caring about you, not what’s in your pants.”

“Um…”

“Your wallet and your dick, you dick.”

“Oh, right.” 

“If it becomes an issue, we’ll talk to Blazer about it. You’ll be okay.”

Except Malevola for got the rule of thumb when it came to life: It has to get worse before it gets better.

Blonde Blazer announced the very next day, through a fucking email, that someone from the Z-Team was going to be dropped. And even with his low numbers, Victor was pretty confident that he was going to be fine. Considering that Invisigal’s numbers were practically in the toilet. 

It was a confusing few minutes, at the end of the day, when Victor heard Robert call out Coop’s name. The former assassin made no complaints as she was led into a board room. Whatever the conversation was about, it resulted in Coop smashing a window, leaving in quiet anger, and apparently threatening Robert. All of which confused Victor until he was told by Prism what had happened. 

He and Coop had been sent to the bottom after Invisigal’s successful arrest of that Thunderfuck whatever guy. They both held the same number of points, both were on the chopping block, and Robert picked Victor to stay. Picked the emotionally confused and drug craving idiot over the literary assassin. Meaning that Robert, for some reason, actually saw potential in Victor. Or was terrified of Coop, and the hybrid was a safer person to go with. 

Whatever the reason, Victor wasn’t going to waste this chance. If Robert believed in him, that was enough. It didn’t matter the situation, how tired he was, how hungry he got, how much he wanted to just sit still for just a second. Victor kept pushing himself forward. He needed to prove that he deserved this spot over someone who could easily kill him in his sleep. If he ever slept again, that was. 

Victor’s only lasted a few days before he was being confronted by the same person who saved his ass. Robert taking the position of being Victor’s boss seriously. Actually demanding that the hybrid stripe and clean himself off. 

“That was kind of hot.” 

Fuck him and his stupid mouth and his stupid sleep deprived brain. 

Thankfully Robert had brushed the comment off and Victor could pretend that it was just a typical conversation between the two. 

Until he felt Robert’s eyes on him while he was showering. A comfortable calm fell between them when Robert offered to dry Victor’s fur off. The moment when Victor let slip that he knew who Robert was. The kiss, God that fucking kiss, that was everything. 

Whatever you called that situation that happened in the locker room, Victor knew that was a big shift for him. And possibly a bigger shift for Robert. 

Did Robert seriously not have any romantic relations with anyone before that moment? 

Maybe they were more perfect for each other than Victor realized. 

While it was never fully verbalized between the two, there was an understanding that they had entered into some kind of relationship. A quiet one. There wasn’t a need to let the rest of the team know they were together. It was a thing between them, nothing else. 

Even if Victor’s skin crawled whenever Invisigal- sorry, Courtney, got too close to the dispatcher. Always getting a sort of thrill watching as Robert would pull away. Sending the hybrid a tired smile that gave the comfort Victor needed. 

As long as Robert came back to him, Victor knew he had nothing to worry about…

“Fucking Invisibitch was right on the money. Perfect name for a bitch like her. Man, fuck her!” Alice let out a grunt as she threw a chair across the break room. 

Victor watched it fly and crash into the wall with little satisfaction felt. “Come on, that’s not necessary.” 

“Fuck you it isn’t! It’s making sure I don’t bust your balls or go out and hunt that bitch down myself! Just- fuck!” 

“Propery damage isn’t going to help. How about we blow off some steam in the Rec Room?” Malevola suggested, already holding the door open. Alice huffed but took the lead, both ladies leaving the room. 

“Huh, she definitely improvin’,” Colm commented, “Pretty sure the lass would tearin’ the place apart before.” 

“Growth.” Bruno added, his voice rumbling. 

Victor sighed as he laid his head back, staring up at the ceiling. This was officially the worst day of his life. Even going to jail didn’t hurt this much. Just yesterday they’d all been at Robert's place, celebrating while planning out how they were going to help Robert become Mecha Man again. Which everyone knew about now, the dispatcher feeling comfortable enough to share. It had been going so well…

Then Courtney decided that they needed to raid the ship, right now, with everyone drunk. Victor wasn’t even sure he could have flown straight with how much he’d had that night, let alone fight. And he wasn’t alone in that thinking. 

Blonde Blazer said no. Courtney pushed back. And Chase…

Victor’s frown deepened. He rolled his head so he could keep a better watch on the hallway. Hoping that Robert would be appearing soon.

Courtney decided to go in alone. Tried to get the Astral Pulse on her own. Which only resulted in her almost dying…and possibly killing Chase in the process. How ironic. Track Star dying because of his powers, using them to save someone who put themselves in a stupid position. All because she wanted to impress Robert.

Maybe if she knew the dispatcher wasn’t available, she wouldn’t have done it. 

It didn’t matter. Because all Victor could focus on was how Chase was close to death and how Robert was practically unresponsive now. The hero hadn’t been able to shut up the night before. Calling everyone he could think of as he raced to the park Chase had collapsed in. Pleading with someone, anyone to get there fast enough to save his friend. 

Blonde Blazer had been on the scene first, taking Chase to SDN. Malevola was next, caught between wanting to yell at Courtney and tending to Robert. When Victor arrived, he found Courtney slumped against the tree. Alive, awake, and breathing, looking at anything but the team. Robert was up, but leaning against Malevola, his forehead resting on her upper arm, shoulders slumped in defeat. Malevola, on her part, had an arm around the other. Worry clearly written on her face as she offered comforting words. 

But nothing worked. Robert wouldn’t say a thing now that Chase was gone. 

Now here they were. Courtney on suspension, pending an investigation. Even though everyone knew what she’d done. Chase was on life support. And Robert was…

Victor sat up when he spotted Blonde Blazer heading their way. The superhero’s face schooled into a neutral expression. The hybrid greeted her at the door. Even opened it up for her to walk through. 

“How is he?” Victor asked. 

“Stable, for now. We just need to keep a close eye on Chase to make sure nothing else happens.” 

“What about Robert?”

Blonde Blazer offered a smile, placing a hand on Victor’s shoulder. “I think…he could use some company right now. From a reliable person. How about you go see him?”

Victor really should have questioned that wording more, but he didn’t care. He’d just gotten the green light from the big boss to check on Robert. Wasting no time, Victor headed down the hall Blazer had just come from. Quickly scanning each room he passed until he found who he was looking for.

Chase looked so small. It was unnerving, the hybrid was used to having the other constantly berating them Z-Team and moving round. Seeing him so still was horrible.

Robert was in the chair that had been pushed to the side of the bed. While the room was dark, Victor could see the hero’s shoulders shaking. Large ears twitching hearing a familiar sound, but not one that he’s ever heard Robert make. 

Crying. 

It was soft, but enough for Victor to pick it up. He placed a hand on the glass door, intending to walk in. Only to pause and really think about the situation. Robert wasn’t one to wear his heart on his sleeve. It had taken awhile for him to even properly smile around Victor, which had been an awesome moment for the hybrid. But this, right now, this was not something that Robert was offering. His tears needed to be shared with only himself, and Victor walking in would no doubt make the situation worse.

So he pulled back, tucked himself behind the wall, and waited. Messed around on his phone, not really paying attention to what he was looking at, as he listened. Making his move once the sound fell away until the only thing Victor could hear was the hum of machinery. 

He didn’t pause this time, entering slowly as he took the room in once more. Robert’s face was clear on any sign that he’d been crying. Possibly the only indication that he had was he now looked more tired than before. But that could just be blamed for the situation in general. The dispatcher looked up hearing the door open. Eyes widening slightly seeing the hybrid. 

“Victor…” Robert’s voice was scratchy and hoarse. 

“Hey Bobert,” Victor replied, “Any changes?”

“No…but he’s fine for now.”

“He’s fine, period. Chase will pull through. He’s too stubborn to just leave like that.” Victor tried to laugh. But fell short seeing how dejected Robert looked. “Hey, the day’s almost over. We should pack up.”

Robert shook his head. “I’m not leaving him. I can’t…not again.” 

“Bobert…there’s not a lot you can do right now. He’s in the safest place to be, he needs to sleep,  you need to sleep, we need to head out.” Victor reached out and gently took Robert’s hands in his own. The hero looked up, a little shocked with the contact, but thankfully didn’t fight as he was gently pulled from the room. 

They collected Robert’s belongings and Beef from the desk before departing from the building. Blonde Blazer giving a nod to Victor as they passed by. 

Again, should probably question as to why she’s so okay with this. But Victor had other things to worry about at that moment. 

Victor had driven to work that day, making it easier to get everything back to his shared place. Robert sitting passenger side, staring out the window with Beef in his lap. The hybrid was pretty sure the other wasn’t taking a single thing in at that moment. Dull eyes just letting everything pass by. 

A quick elevator trip up to the top floors and they were walking into the large apartment. Beef trotting over to the area made up just for him as Victor led Robert into the living room area. The hero practically collapses into the sofa. Victor turns on the tv and flips it to something that would count as a good background distraction. 

“You hungry?” Victor asked. Frowning when Robert shook his head. “Alright, I think we have some left overs.” 

“‘M not hungry.” Robert weakly commented back.

“I heard you. That doesn’t mean I’m going to listen.” Victor was in the kitchen, digging through the fridge and pulling out a few containers. “You just watch the show and I’ll bring something over.”

“Victor-”

“Once we have some actual food in us, we can try that dessert I kept telling you about. That chocolate cake thing, remember? I finally got the recipe right. Had to ask Chad for help, if you can believe that.” 

“...Yeah, I can.”

“Alright, well, ouch. See if I make anything for you again.”

“Depending on how this creation turns out, that might be a blessing.” 

“Come on man.” Victor’s ear twitched hearing a weak laugh come from Robert. Smiling a little knowing he’d gotten something positive out of the tired man. The microwaved dinged and Victor was dishing the food out onto two plates. Carrying them and two drinks over with ease, handing one off to Robert. “For you.” 

“Thanks.” The hero said softly, a smile of his own on his face as he started to eat. 

After taking his own seat, Victor turned the volume up a little more and focused on his own plate. The only sound came from the tv, the show doing all of the talking while the current inhabitants focused on their meal. Or sleeping, if you were Beef. Robert finished first, putting his empty plate on the coffee table before sitting back. 

“Seconds?” Victor asked.

Robert shook his head, “I’m good.”

“You sure? You’re still…skinny.” 

“I thought you liked that about me.” 

“I do,” Victor put his plate aside before leaning over to Robert, “But I’d also like to see you with a little something on the sides. You know, something to hold onto.” 

“Well, too bad for you because that’s never gonna happen.”

“Aww, what? Surely the desk job is helping out in some way with that.”

“Except I work out everyday.”

Victor sighed dramatically, earning himself another laugh from Robert. “An amazing dispatcher that works out everyday and has the personality that you have to earn to love. Is there anything else that you’d like to claim you’re amazing at.” 

“I can think of one thing…” 

Victor couldn’t hold back a shiver when Robert’s hand cupped under his chin. Gently pulling the hybrid down into a soft kiss. One that Victor returned happily. Shifting them both until Robert was lying on his back, seemingly unbothered to be trapped against the couch. He let out a moan as Victor’s hand slipped under his shirt, smooth hands traveling across scared skin. Pulling back slightly, Victor turned his focus to Robert’s next. Gently placing kisses along the pale skin while-

A choked sob suddenly escaped Robert.

All of Victor’s plans came directly to a halt, quickly pulling away with a look of panic. “Robert?” 

“Shit, fuck, I-I’m sorry.” The hero tried to cover his face, turning away from Victor as best he could. 

“Are you hurt? Did I claw you or-”

“N-No, fuck no, i-it’s not you. It’s just…” 

Victor’s panic grew as Robert fully broke down, The hero trying to keep himself quiet as his body shook. “Robert? Hey, talk to me, what’s happening?”

Robert opened his mouth a few times, but all that came out were more cries. Each louder and heavier than the last. Victor changed their position again so they were laying on their sides, facing each other. A quick, silent thanks to Malevola for insisting they get a deep set couch. 

Victor did his best to keep it together as he held Robert closer. Gently scratching where he could reach and rubbing the hero’s back. Trying not to fall apart as well as Robert just cried. 

“I can’t…I can’t l-lose him too…” Robert eventually choked out. 

“You won’t, Chase isn’t going down without a fight. You think he wouldn’t verbally tear apart whoever has the audacity to take his soul into letting him stay? Chase is a fighter. It’ll be okay.”

Robert let out a shaky breath, furiously rubbing his face before his hands fell away. Still avoiding looking Victor in the eye, uncaring as new tears started to fall. “...It’s my fault.” 

“What- No, what are you talking about?” 

“I should have talked to Courtney more, made her really understand why going out there was a bad idea. Brought her back to the apartment just to know she wouldn’t go.” 

“She’s her own person, she can decide-”

“I’m supposed to be helping you all. Your actions are a result of my choices. If I can’t lead, why…am I even here.” 

“Because you’re trying to make a difference and you’re only human.”

“Victor-”

“No, listen to me.” Victor gently lifted Robert’s chin so he had to look at the hybrid. “If there’s anything that I’ve learned from my life is that you can’t control other people. No matter what you say, or do, or offer, people are sometimes hard wired to act a certain way. I’m not saying people can’t change. But it’s also not an overnight kind of thing.”

“I’m…pissed at Courtney, I won’t lie. She made a stupid choice without really thinking about the consequences, but I do think her full intention was to help. But that was her choice. You did all you could that night to convince her otherwise. Sitting here, thinking about the what-ifs, isn’t going to help.” 

“...I just wanted to save all of you.” Robert whispered.

“That’s the hero in you talking. You can only do so much with what’s given.” 

“I really should know better.”

“Yeah, you should.” Victor reached out to gently run a thumb across Robert’s cheek, catching a stray tear in the process. “Feeling better? Even a little bit?”

“...I haven’t cried like that since my dad died.” 

“Well, then I’d say you were due for it.”

“Sorry for-”

“Don’t you dare finish that sentence.” 

“Victor-”

“Nope, you shut your mouth. You’re going to lay here while I clean up and get our dessert. We’ll then eat it, get Beef settled in, and go to bed. You look terrible and I want to hold you closer, and not on the couch. Okay?”

Robert smiled weakly, giving a small nod. “Yeah, okay.”

“Good.” Victor claimed a quick kiss before clambering over Robert. Making a show to straighten himself out before heading back to the kitchen. Putting the dirty dishes away, the hybrid pulled out two square glass containers from the fridge. 

Just as he was about to take the lids off, Victor’s ear twitched, picking up a familiar sound. A deep inhale with a rumbling exhale that repeated. The wonderfully comforting sound of Robert snoring. There was a slight moment of disappointment in realizing the sweet treat would have to be saved for another day.  But Victor knew that all Robert needed right now was some actual sleep and knowing he was in a safe place.

Placing the containers back in, Victor set about ending the day properly. Getting Beef food and water. Double checking that the doggie door to the balcony was open in case the dog needed the bathroom in the middle of the night. Fully cleaning the kitchen, turning off the tv, and carrying his still passed out partner to Victor’s bedroom. 

It took awhile, but the hybrid was eventually able to get them both dressed in sleep wear and under the covers. Robert still passed out for the entire ordeal. Making sure both were covered, Victor gently pulled the other closer. Arms wrapping around Robert’s middle, legs tangled up just right, and finally with Victor nuzzling into the hero’s shoulder. 

 Before closing his eyes, Victor took a few moments to look Robert over. While he couldn’t see the other’s face, he knew Robert’s mouth was be open. Drool only a few seconds away from spilling out. His entire body is limp, seemingly uncaring as he’s moved around. All tension and fears completely wiped away as he sank further into the dark bliss that was sleep.