Still mourning tht one fanfic of ttigraas that the author deleted because they cringed when the read it themselves (It was completed with epilogue AND an art at the end on how their children would look like)
Anya is live and ready to show you everything. Watch her strip, dance, and perform exclusive shows just for you. Interact in real-time and make your fantasies come true.
✓ Live Streaming✓ Interactive Chat✓ Private Shows✓ HD Quality✓ Free Actions
Free to watch • No registration required • HD streaming
Info from flygutzz in red; from nortsauce in orange; from the comic or reference sheets in bold; information from outside sources marked with brackets, [like this]. Schrödinger’s canon/things you can disregard if you want are marked with braces, {like this}.
new information marked with ☆
Basics
His name isn’t actually “Mugman.”
28 years old; the younger twin by 3 minutes
[his birthday is September 29th]
{Bisexual, with a slight preference for women}
A sharpshooter; defaults to long-ranged attacks
☆ his representative flower is the blue iris (this is also his favorite flower)
☆ his representative animal is a hare, watership down-style
Appearance
Has a lot of upper body strength. Described by Nortsauce as being “jacked” and “topheavy.”
Wore glasses as a child. Now uses a special sort of glaze as a sort of liquid contact. <- he has to take it off at the end of the day.
In his new reference card, his scarf is a bit tattered
[he wears hand-me-downs from Elder Kettle. He can’t really afford much else.]
[there is a list of things he’s insecure about?]
[doesn’t really pertain to appearances, but he has a Brooklyn (or Boston) accent]
he smells like booze.
He and Cuphead are probably the most attractive (physically) by human standards.
☆ his eyes are blue.
^ in a human au, his eyes would be a hazel-ish chocolate brown.
Personality & Mentality
A huge and hopeless romantic. Will read adventure books only if there is a romance plot somewhere.
[Romantasy fan. Likes forbidden romances, like pirate x siren, and disney princess-esque stuff. Also dramatic twilight-ish books.]
^ addendum: I get the impression that books are a form of escapism for him? Don’t quote me on that, I could be mistaken.
[he doesn’t like power imbalanced relationships.]
he has OCD and is on the autism spectrum
Uses more slang than swears. Elder Kettle made sure of it.
He has stagefright. He’s also afraid of ghosts and the dark (wonder how it’ll go when he sees Cuphead)
He does not use a lot of nicknames for Cuphead. Very straightforward.
quick to jump the gun; has a short fuse.
More competitive than Cuphead AND is a sore loser. Most likely to crash out over a card game.
Emotional & empathetic.
Has a 15+ step morning routine, including putting a special over his eyes to help with his vision.
Dorky & awkward
[he likes people that challenge the status quo; he finds kinship in them!! “Lowkey?? he likes anarchists.”]
[he doesn’t like being bothered while he’s reading, things like shoulder straps & hats being out of place, or overlapping noises.]
[he gets sensory overload easily.]
he’s terrified of being in love with someone that doesn’t love him just as much.
^ he wants to trust his partner, but worries that he will be ‘unlovable’ if he doesn’t act a certain way. (mugs, honey….🥹)
he doesn’t really like being touched, but he will allow the occasional hug.
he can’t always catch a lie, but he’s skeptical about everything everyone says to him. He calls out everything he thinks is a lie.
he may be a maladaptive daydreamer? To paraphrase, “[Mugman] likes to read adventure novels and imagine himself as the main characters…he’ll get kinda stuck in his own fantasy world for days and end up shutting everything and everyone else out.”
^ He gets really embarrassed about it, too </3
His interests are Pirate-romance and chemistry. No overlap or in-betweens. However, one could say he’s interested in Celestials and magic.
^ he’s very knowledgeable about his interests, it’s just that Cuphead is better at them in practice.
☆ he’s better with academics than he is with people
Background
Wanted to be a chemist before everything went south.
[any food or items he and Cuphead had were grown in their yard or made.]
[Elder Kettle knew some of the debtors Mugman and Cuphead were forced to kill. Mugman remembers every single face.]
Mugman has had several dream jobs that have fallen through, including: A dancer, a singer, a pianist, a guitarist, a scientist, a pirate, an author, and many more.
[^ It is a touchy subject, though, so don’t bring it up.]
He tried to perform something at his school’s talent show, but ended up freezing from stage fright for a whole 10 minutes.
he and Cuphead raised the goat they have in the Cuphead Show.
he tried out a lot of extracurricular activities and other things when he was still in school to catch up with his peers. It, um. Didn’t work out.
☆ he and Cuphead accidentally killed someone with a meatgrinder. (#Yikes)
Miscellany
He is not allowed to have coffee because it makes him even more anxious and he ends up with a headache.
The type of guy to order the same thing over and over at restaurants. Will occasionally try new things, but has to hype himself up for it first.
Cannot stand wet clothes. (just like me fr 💔)
Can play instruments. Which ones are currently unknown.
Has matching pajamas w/ Cuphead
Has a sweet tooth
^ ☆ he really likes ice cream. He also used to bake pies for his family.
[he likes to paint landscapes. Do NOT ask him to paint or draw a person; he will cry if it doesn’t turn out perfect.] (he’s so real for that tbh)
[he is a good singer & dancer!!, but he’s only comfortable with actually singing or dancing with Cuphead (because he sucks at both). “Unconfidently wonderful.”]
[he’s not so great with instruments, though he can play the guitar just a little bit.]
[puts hot chocolate in his head to keep warm. (w/ marshmallows, candy canes, and whipped cream for fashion) Sometimes eggnog, but it apparently feels weirder.]
pretty heavyweight, but he doesn’t drink anymore. Or, at least, as much as he used to.
he likes romance, fantasy, and noir movies. (HE’S JUST LIKE ME FR (I ♡ noir movies)) And music: he likes blues and swing.
^ In a Modern AU, Mugman would like sad Indie-Pop musicians. Sombr, TV Girl, Mitski, Hozier, Cavetown, and the like.
he studies cookbooks to make his partner’s favorite dishes, but he still isn’t a great chef. He’s not bad, per se, but definitely needs to work on it.
he’s a light sleeper, and gets so stressed by Cuphead’s nightmares that he, too, can barely sleep.
He would psyche himself out so bad in the Hunger Games. Even though he and Cuphead would be on the offensive, they have a huge target painted on their backs.
He would try to complete all of the storylines, aspirations, challenges etc. that there are in the Sims, but would ultimately get so frustrated with how laggy the game is that he never finishes them.
His favorite marine animal is the Blue sea dragon (Glaucus atlanticus)
In a game of Truth or Dare, his Truths involve cool scenarios that are fun to think about, like, “Which of our team would survive a zombie apocalypse and which would be the first to go?”
^ as for Dares, he goes straight for the throat. “Cut off that friend you always said you would cut off,” and so on.
^^ He would Dare Cuphead to do his laundry.
☆ he can hold his breath for 45 seconds to a minute.
☆ he and Cuphead celebrate their birthday by getting a few pastries and the candle, going up onto a random rooftop, and singing happy birthday to his brother. As kids, he and Cuphead would save up money to buy ice cream on their birthday. They didn’t celebrate together as teenagers due to a falling out.
☆ as a Minecraft player, Mugman is an organizer. He spends most of his time farming, selling ore, crafting, building defenses, enchanting, etc. he unironically enjoys doing all of this.
☆ he probably would’ve chopped off Dyle’s chain to save him.
☆ in a modern bar, he would be flirted with by guys and girls. After he felt like he’s embarrassed himself, he’d go to stand by Boris (which makes it worse.)
☆ Mugman says 67 to Cuphead a lot which unreasonably upsets him because he doesn’t understand what it means
☆ Mugman is a perfect perfectionistic artist. He can never seem to get that other eye right. Consider yourself insulted if he finishes your portrait because it means he simply does not care. He struggles to draw his brother (especially his eyes.)
☆ if he was an Animal Crossing villager, he would be a deer with horns striped like his straw. His personality would be cranky, and his catchphrase would be “harrumph!”
QnA section
Question: “would you consider yourself a good person?”
Anya is live and ready to show you everything. Watch her strip, dance, and perform exclusive shows just for you. Interact in real-time and make your fantasies come true.
✓ Live Streaming✓ Interactive Chat✓ Private Shows✓ HD Quality✓ Free Actions
Free to watch • No registration required • HD streaming
Yall think holding a toons bare hand is a sign of really intimate affection. Like its not inappropriate but it is considered to much pda and should be for couples in private settings. But just imagine, you and one of the main mythers building so much trust that one day they ask you to hold hands. You of course obliged but then they take their glove off just so you can feel eachother! You're appendage clasped together in silence with them just getting flustered.
₊˚⊹♡ 𝙎𝙔𝙉𝙊𝙋𝙎𝙄𝙎: You didn’t even understand yourself how you managed to get here. This isn’t the college life you saw in musicals, but here you are, navigating through college life in twists and turns surrounded by familiar faces and coming across new friends. At least you thought they were. Until they started leaving you clues that began to make you question if it was the friendship you thought it to be.
⋆.𐙚 ̊— MOTM YANDERE YENSID AU! MAIN CAST! X READER
If someone told you that there were apparently five suitors that developed an obsessive attachment to you and that they’re willing to go so far just to kill for your affection, you’d find the entire idea itself all too ridiculous and simply laughed in their face. You’re not even sure how you got into this mess in the first place. You weren’t exactly the type who drew in crowds, just another face among the student body. Sure, you know a couple of people here and there around campus. You also tend to have a bit of a guilty conscience that tries to stab you in the inside multiple times if you don't help someone out even if it was easier to ignore and let someone else do it.
But should it really be enough to attract this sort of attention? Enough to spill blood?
Yes.
Strangely enough.
You didn’t think simple acts of kindness were enough to twist someone’s mind but reality had to take charge, cracking their knuckles to put in the work.
You should’ve left when you got the chance.
Boris was your first problem. He was a childhood friend of yours that drifted apart since you had to move away because of your father’s promotion and having his work transferred to another city. He was quite shy and kept to himself for what you’d first expect from a wolf. But he was quiet enough you found him at the small local playground where a bunch of kids were ganging up on him, pulling his fur and ears while calling them names. Little you was quite feisty and frankly, blunt back then according to your parents.
“Even if we were to put you on a leash, one look away and you’d still be off somewhere.”
“I wasn’t that bad…”
“Honey, we had to come get you from school because you asked your elementary teacher how many months along…”
“It was an innocent question…”
“He was a male.”
“Still innocent.”
You almost made your mom faint when you came home with some scrapes and bruises after that incident. However, she let it go with a sigh after hearing the full story, not that she was still fond of it of course given how she glared at your dad when he gave you a thumbs up. But good on her for coming to your defense when the bullies came up to your door trying to get reparation for those kids.
You supposed that’s how you both came to be friends because the next time you were able to go to the playground, under your mother’s supervision, he came to you in full-on blubbering and apologies based on what you can remember. You waved it off of course and your mom invited him over for lunch.
You came to learn about him while you both were playing with your toys, you even showed him your prized horse toy that your dad won at a small carnival that went on to become your most treasured possession. Your dad shed a tear at the sight even if he was initially skeptical of the boy of course when he came home.
“You don’t have any friends?”
Perhaps, you were too blunt.
If you haven’t witnessed the devastating combination of puppy eyes and droopy ears it seems there was a first for everything…
“Then, you can be my friend…”
“...Really?”
“Yeah, Elmer likes you.” You held out your horse toy to him with a bright smile, allowing him to hold it.
“Oh…”
You never knew why you decided to name your horse after a glue stick.
Boris was still shy around others from what you noticed at the playground. Even if you were around other toons who you were also around with. He was quiet and stayed in the background while you go play with them at the slide or the swings for an hour or two before heading back to your place for your own hang out sessions, waving goodbye to the other kids.
Perhaps you should’ve seen it back then as they made a comment about how creepy he was.
“I don’t know how you can hang out with him, he keeps staring like a creep…”
“But he’s my friend…”
The other kids exchanged uneasy glances.
“But, whenever you’re with us he…” They hesitated. “He just keeps looking…
However, it became such a weekly routine that your parents prepared an extra meal every time expecting his visit. Also he had the cutest puppy-eyes whenever he seemed lost which stood out the most to you, melting your heart and becoming a weakness whenever you were frustrated with him.
“Hey…” Boris softly called out your name. “Why do you like being with me?”
You paused from playing with your horse toy to look at him and gave him the same answer. “Because Elmer likes you.”
“...Is that really it?” He drooped down.
You hummed sweatdropping at his sudden raincloud, thinking it over.
“Because I think you’re a good wolf, Boris.”
“You think so?” He lifted his head up to gaze at you, eyes shining.
“Yup!
“Will we always be friends…?”
“Of course, we will! Best friends forever, right?” You raised a pinkie.
He was practically family.
Which didn’t really help your case.
A few months later though, you came home from school to see piles of cardboard boxes scattered around the living room and your parents carefully packing things up, explaining that you’re going to move in a few days for work reasons.
“I’m sorry, honey…”
Of course your little mind raced to only one person.
Of course you were horrified and completely panicked because it happened so suddenly and you had no way of reaching Boris because you didn’t know where he lived. Not to mention, it was days before your weekly hang out so there was no point in running to the playground to check if he was there.
So little you did the only thing you thought would be right that time. You went to your neighbor under sniffles and asked them to keep your most valuable item in case he ever came by wanting to see you wondering what happened.
Your horse toy.
You lost contact with him as soon as you moved away. Your mom offered to check in, curious about what happened to the little quiet wolf herself . She reached out to some former neighbors with a few calls but all led to the same dead end. It was like he vanished without a trace. None of them has seen him and the kids from the playground just shrugged it off and shake their head, claiming they haven’t seen him either. It was as if he didn’t exist at all and false memories were planted in your head the day you left, growing hazier and hazier as years passed by.
That was, until you moved back home for a top college after your father decided to retire. You wanted to live on your own and pleaded with your parents for more independence, making them reluctantly cave in and hand you the old house keys under strict rules.
You didn’t really expect to see him first day of school, saving you from a bunch of stereotypical jock bullies after bumping into one of the girlfriends with them who was holding a matcha latte.
And you gotta say, green did not look well with her pink.
“They apologized, let it go.”
They scrambled away with their tail between their legs after one look from him. He wasn’t the same young skinny wolf toon you remembered as he now had quite a larger and more towering figure compared to when you last saw him.
Then again, it was a long time ago.
Now, it seems his current appearance made him apparently a silent delinquent around campus.
“I heard he beat up ten seniors at a rival school all by himself.”
“I heard from a classmate that he punched some guy for even looking at him…”
“That’s not what I heard. Someone said he punched them with just one touch of his bag.”
And they were talking about the same wolf? The same wolf that used to have snot in his nose when you didn’t come to the playground one time because you had chicken pox?
The same toon?
“You’re quite the figure over here, Boris. You’ve really changed.” You hummed as you walked alongside him in the hallways towards the guidance office. “I remember us only being a couple of inches apart and now here we are, you’re all bulky and apparently a rebellious one too. What happened to the droopy eared teary wolf that I used to know?”
“And you’re as blunt as I remember.” The wolf toon sighed as he shoved his hands into the pockets of his school jacket. “They’re all made up. But, maybe it should be for good reasons…”
‘Hm?’ You turned your head to raise a brow at him.
“It’s nice to see you again.” He mutters. “But, you shouldn't be seen talking to me. I’m not exactly popular…”
You should’ve listened to him back then and went your own way. But, your conscience decided it wanted to stick by him since he was one of the only people you knew during the first week of school.
So, how could you not?
You sat by him during lunch, surprising him at first but eventually he caved in with defeat and you both sat together in silence. It wasn’t awkward per se in fact you found the silence quite calming.
If anything, it was comfortable.
The kind where the space didn’t demand to be filled.
You figured he found the quiet peaceful as well since after days of this continuous lunch routine, he shyly offered you an earbud he took out of one ear.
“...Do you want to listen with me?”
Now, how could you say no to the familiar puppy eyes you remember?
It was a small gesture.
But coming from Boris, it felt like a big one.
As time went on you went to introduce him to some of your friends you made in your classes. They were wary of him of course, given the rumors but sat with you both once in a while during lunch. Boris wasn’t exactly unwelcoming to the newly add-ons to the small group you brought along at lunchtime but he did stay quiet most of the time during the conversations only giving short “yes” and “no” answers to some of their questions.
They only come once and a while, about once or twice a week, give or take claiming they had some assignments to catch up on or a club activity they had to do. They seemed to have calmed down when he saw he wasn’t exactly like the rumors say he was. But, it didn’t stop them from expressing their concerns to you.
“...It’s not like we don’t like him. We know that anything could just be hot gossip.” One of your friends said worriedly as you were seated at one of the benches waiting for the next subject. “But, you can’t deny he’s got that look in his eyes…”
“What do you mean?” You blinked. “His face is just like that. He means well…”
“He looks like he’s going to bite our heads off.” Your other friend interrupts. “Like we interrupted the little lovey-dovey moments you guys have during your little lunch dates.”
“We aren’t like that, you know that.” You sighed, shaking your head as you pulled out a notebook to study for an upcoming quiz. “Boris and I are just childhood friends.”
“We know, we know. You told us a million times that you’re becoming a parrot.” They hesitated for a few minutes before continuing . “But, I heard something from my older brother who’s a senior and he says it’s true because it’s coming from a friend.”
“You know those could still be rumors right?”
“Still, I thought I should let you know.” They lowered their voice to a whisper with your other friend listening in. “Apparently, a couple of months ago, one of the jocks decided it’d be funny to mess with him, stealing his bag from him in some empty classroom. My brother said he pummeled him until his face was unrecognizable and his fists were bloody. Someone said a teacher had to call for an ambulance.”
“Really?” You raised a brow, seemingly unfazed.
That didn’t sound like Boris.
He never was one for violence.
“It sounds ridiculous, I know.” Your friend sighed, shaking their head, looking around before leaning over. “But what makes it even more bizarre was that even after all that he didn’t exactly go after the bag. My brother’s friend claimed that he saw him kneeling on the ground and cradling something in his bloodied hands.”
“What was it?” You murmured, looking like you weren’t paying attention as you scanned your notes.
They frowned. ”Not sure, he said it looked old…”
That didn’t sound like Boris at all.
“He said it was some kind of horse toy?”
At that moment, your blood ran cold.
For a brief moment you saw your childhood flash before your eyes.
“Yeah, Elmer likes you.” You held out your horse toy to him with a bright smile, allowing him to hold it.
“Elmer…” Your breath hitched at the once faded memories coming back, pausing you from your studies. How you showed it to him. How you left it with your neighbor if he ever came looking for you.
“Hey, you doing alright?”
That should’ve been your first clue.
And it should’ve ended there.
Your next problem was Bendy, the student body president himself and Boris' older brother. He was also one of those black and white shaded toons in the form of a demon. Compared to Boris however, he was the complete opposite of him. While Boris was silent, Bendy was outgoing and fairly popular with the student body. He had his own charm and was quite charismatic. You suppose his friendliness with people was one of the qualities you admired about him.
Then again, maybe it got too much at one point.
“Hey there! Been a long time, huh?” You remember him pulling you aside after your first day of class. “Not to worry my darling doll, I’ll be showing you around here! Try to keep up!”
You didn’t know him as much as Boris when you were younger but he has hung out with you two at the playground. You weren’t that close based on what you can remember, however each time you played, he always left after a couple of hours. You also offered each time to play at your house with Boris, but he shook his head and gave his usual signature grin and said that their foster parents are coming to pick him up for acting classes.
You suppose that was the first you learned that they were orphans and were adopted under someone named Henry.
Boris never talked about his family when you two first hung out and every time you asked there was a slight hesitation behind the answers, making even your parents curious about their family background. But for an extrovert like Bendy, you expected at least a few words about them.
However each time they were mentioned, you noticed how the demon’s grin became more rehearsed.
Maybe it was the performer in him.
And you saw how convincing it was for the others.
But it never reached his eyes.
“Thanks for saving my brother, little missy!”
Even when you first saw him.
So you stopped asking, learning that some questions weren’t meant to be answered.
That silences are kinder than answers.
“Not to say I don’t appreciate a tour around here, Mr. President…” You trailed off, raising a brow at his happy-go-lucky demeanor while noticing the dirty looks you were getting from the other students as you walked beside him. “But, shouldn’t you be off doing more important business?”
‘Geez, remind me not to poke at these fangirls…’ You thought.
The counselor said there will be someone showing you around campus since you weren’t able to attend the orientation due to a later application, but you didn’t expect it to be him of all people. Not to mention, he was some big-shot campus figure so shouldn’t he be busy with y’know…
Paperwork?
“Don’t be silly, doll! I volunteered.” He grinned, glancing at you as walked through the hallways.
You wrinkled your nose at the familiar nickname. “You’re still calling me that?”
“What? It just fits.” He shrugs, ignoring your face. “Also, call me Bendy, same as always. I’m as ordinary as every student here y’know?”
“Right…” You murmured under your breath, sweatdropping as you try to tune out the heated glares drilling into your back. “Ordinary.”
“Or Andy for old time sake?”
A flicker of surprise crosses your expression for just a millisecond.
“Ann and Andy, eh?”
You didn’t expect him to still remember that.
“You’re playing Raggedy Andy?” Your eyes sparkled in awe.
You were waiting for Boris, wondering why he wasn’t showing up as usual. He wasn’t exactly the type to be late. Some kids invited you to play with them but it wasn’t the same without him. So you told them after a while that you felt tired and that you were going to take a break at the benches to wait for your friend. You waited there all afternoon, and by the time you knew it, it was already sunset and the kids began to leave.
However, just as the last of the children left the playground, Bendy showed up.
But brought bad news.
It appears that Boris was sick with the flu which made sense why he wasn’t able to hang out today.
“Will he be okay…” You asked worriedly.
“He’ll be fine!” Bendy waved it off, reassuring you. “Must be from the weather. He might be quiet but he’s still a tough cookie. Some little cold isn’t gonna kill him so don’t you worry, your pretty little head.”
You sighed, a small sense of relief washing over you since he didn’t seem all too concerned about it so it must be minor.
But you were still worried either way.
An awkward silence settled between the both of you. You supposed there wasn’t any point of staying since Boris wasn’t coming. And you did stay here all afternoon patiently waiting for him, making you miss lunch. Your parents must be worried sick why you weren’t home yet.
“I guess I should be heading home then since he’s sick today. Sorry for making you come all this way for the trouble,” You stood up and bowed before straightening yourself back up to leave. “Please tell him that Elmer and I will be waiting when he’s all better.”
However, just as you were about to walk off, Bendy stopped you.
“Hey, wait a minute! Are you saying you don’t wanna hang out with little ol’ me?”
You turned back to find Bendy putting on a playful pout for dramatics. You tilted your head in confusion, wondering what he was even trying to suggest.
You weren’t exactly close with him. In fact, you both kept a respectful distance between the both of you even when you were with Boris. He was friendly towards you and held dramatic shows with you and the other toons that either made you laugh or gaze in awe at his performances.
Yet somehow, he still felt distant.
Like there was an invisible wall between you.
So him wanting to hang out with you alone was a little out of the ordinary.
“...You want to hang out with me?” You trailed off.
“What do you think I’ve been saying?” He clicked his tongue with his signature smile. “Remind me to cast you as my parrot if I ever get the role of a pirate.”
You deadpanned at his words before sighing and letting it go.
“Why? Don’t you only hang out when Boris is around?” You blinked, not realizing how your words might come off.
“Wow, Boris was right about you having no filter at all.” He sweatdropped at your straight face. He folded his arms for a second before he walks up to sit at the bench right beside where you were standing. “And that’s because I had drama lessons, but I’m free now. So nothing wrong with a change of pace, eh?”
“...But I haven’t eaten since lunch.” You mumbled to yourself unaware that the demon’s ears were sharper than you thought.
“You mean to tell me, you’ve been waiting all day for Boris?” He stared at you, completely dumbfounded.
“I was worried.” You answered sulkily.
He burst out laughing, belly filled with laughter before calming down after to wipe a tear from his eye making you feel silly and flustered out of embarrassment. “You’re a real hoot, y’know that?”
“What’s that supposed to mean…”He calms down, still grinning before he goes to unzip his bag to pull out some snacks. “Tell you what, hang out with me for a couple of hours, and I’ll give you these snacks. You must be starving! I’m not exactly planning to get eaten alive right now.”
“Hardy, har, har.” You said dryly. “Are you trying to bribe me?”
It was at that moment, your tummy decided to grumble in protest.
Another awkward silence echoes through the air as you shut your eyes to escape the embarrassment for one moment before deciding to sit back down right next to him as you took the chocolate he held out.
“...You’re lucky I’m hungry.”
“I’ll take that as a yes.”
Despite the humiliating setback of being bribed to stay, you and him actually made good conversation. You asked him some questions about himself and he would answer and ask you in return. He was playful with his answers that made you wonder if he was actually being entirely truthful but paid no mind as you were happy enough to be able to talk to him. Topics switched from school, animals, games you both liked to play that you both ended in giggles.
Yet he still felt out of reach.
Then the topic of dramas and movies came up.
“You’re playing Raggedy Andy?” Your eyes sparkled in awe. “
“Yeah, at this next show.” He grinned from the sight of your amazement. “Teacher wanted to test out the class’ skill so he split us into small groups and gave us some topics for us to play.”
“I love Raggedy Ann! My mom bought us the tape but it got destroyed after watching it so many times!” You said, all giddy. Just saying it was just your favorite movie was a complete understatement. “I even had my dad drive all the way to the toy store just for her doll!”
“You really love the movie that much, huh?”
“Absolutely! Most definitely!” You said with such a gleam in your eyes.
“Sadly, you won’t get to see me in action since this is more on checking our skills.” The demon chuckled. “Think of it like some kind of quiz.”
“Aww…” You slumped down.
What a pity. It would’ve been nice to see it all in action.
“Maybe next time, doll.”
You paused, sticking out your tongue at the nickname. “Yuck. Don’t call me that,”
“It just fits.” He shrugs before pulling out a smile. “Don’t blame me.”
“Whatever.” You dangled your legs out the bench, allowing them to sway back and forth. “Acting must be so much fun…”
“Yeah…” He replied. “It is…”
There it was again.
His smile didn’t touch his eyes.
You opened your mouth to say something, pausing for a second with hesitation before swallowing once more to speak.
“...You must be tired of smiling.” You muttered softly.
You shouldn’t have said anything.
You shouldn’t have stayed with him to begin with.
Your words didn’t escape his sharp hearing as he looked at you with a raised brow while still wearing a smiling expression.
“Excuse you, I’m told that my smile is the most angelic.” He answered, dramatically placing his hand to where his heart is, acting wounded. “He always said that you aren’t dressed if you don’t wear a smile!”
You rolled your eyes and stood up, pulling him along with you. “C’mon…”
“Uh, what are we doing…” He questions as you move a few spaces away from the bench before halting your steps. “If you want to take a walk, you only need to say a few words.”
You take a deep breath, controlling your humiliation within you before deciding to open your mouth.
“I’m just a rag dolly, happy and smilin’ all day~”
You sang, letting go of his hand to do a small twirl and lifting up your skirt like you saw in the movie. “A little rag dolly, wishing your worries away~”
Bendy watches you with wide eyes under the sound of the familiar song.
“I stop and say, “Golly, this is too good to be true.”~” You grinned as you pulled out familiar actions from the movie. “A little rag dolly, plain as can be, has a friend who’s as lovely as you…”
You finished with a little curtsy.
Your little shenanigans made him grin with amusement for a few moments before making his move, deciding he wanted to play along.
“She’s just a rag dolly, happy and smilin’ all day~” You smile as you watch him go behind you singing his role’s familiar lines as he leads you to a little dance routine. “A lovely rag dolly, wishin’ your worries away~”
He was truly a performer at heart.
“And I get so jolly, knowing it’s funny but true~” He sang. “A little rag dolly, sweet as can be, could be friends with a dolly like you~”
Just as you were about to follow along, one little step sent you almost crashing down if it wasn’t for the fact Bendy caught you wrapping his tail around to steady you.
“Whoa! You alright there, doll?”
You laughed brightly at the situation you were both in. You still had two left feet after all, you’re surprised he even went along with this sudden whim. As your laughter faded, you saw it.
A genuine smile.
“You’re finally smiling….” You grinned, happy to see that you accomplished your true plan.
The air was silent between you, but compared to the awkwardness from earlier, this time it was filled with warmth even as a small gust of wind blew your way.
“You…” You never thought this would be the first time you’d see Bendy completely run out of words.
“You really are a strange one, doll…”
“Doll? Yoohoo~ Anyone home?” You flinched, blinking rapidly out of your state as you saw a hand gently flailing in front of your face.
“H-huh?” You replied confused as you saw Bendy raised a brow at you.
“I’ve been calling your name for a while now, doll.” He chuckled. “You looked so distracted ever since we started this tour that you’re starting to turn into a pigeon.”
You shook your head. “It’s nothing, just thinking…”
“If you say so.” His signature grin found its way onto his face once more as the two of you headed toward the small building beside the main school. “Must’ve had way too many midnight snacks, eh? Cookies and milk?”
That sentence caught you off guard for a second.
It wasn’t really a secret, but you don’t exactly go telling people you wake up in the middle of the night with a craving especially when you were little. Even your parents didn’t know, And to name cookies and milk specifically of all things…
‘Is it a coincidence…?’ You thought, biting your lip anxiously. ‘Am I just overthinking…?’
That sentence sounded so simple yet you can’t help the shiver that ran down your back.
“Here we are, we saved the best for last! The theater room!" He interrupted your thoughts as you heard the sound of jingling keys. “Usually, transferees, freshmen don’t get to see the inside till the activities, but for you? I’ll make an exception.”
“Of course, you of all people would save the theater for last.” You rolled your eyes as you watched him unlock the doors.
“I like to think it’s what the school’s known for!” He winked as he opened the doors and walked in. “Just don’t go telling on me to the rest of the council.”
You shake your head playfully as you follow him. “Wouldn’t dream of it.”
“This here, doll? This is where you get to see me in all of my glory!” He said as he jumped on stage wearing a large grin as he looked towards you.
“Figured.” You smiled softly at the familiarity of the scene. A wave of nostalgia gently washing over you. “You were always one for the spotlight, Andy.”
You watched how his expression subtly shifted. He was still all smiles yet something about his gaze seemed different this time. Your eyes drifted down as you saw how he held his hand out. You were filled with a sense of uncertainty but hesitantly took his hand allowing him to pull you up to the stage.
“...You remember how we played at the playground?” Bendy questions you all of a sudden.
“Uh, yeah…” You wondered why he was asking. “I was Ann, you were Andy. Sometimes we made Boris act like the camel…”
“He was so confused when we started calling each other Ann and Andy.” He chuckled. “Those were the good ol’ days…”
You watch as his expression changes into something unreadable.
“Sometimes, I pretend you were always in the crowd…” He murmured softly. “Sometimes, I pretend we were back to those days of our small roleplay…”
“...What do you mean?” You asked, feeling unsettled. Yet, he didn’t seem to be listening.
“No one else can be you Ann…” You heard him mumble. You felt his hand tightened around your wrist as he brought it upwards. It didn’t hurt but there was certainly a grip to it that raised some alarms.
He gently pressed a kiss to your knuckles. It was gentle yet there was something behind the gesture that made your skin crawl.
“But, I don’t want it to be just Ann and Andy anymore…”
That was the second clue.
You should have read more in between the lines.
The third was Shelly. She was a really nice toon and in fact you considered her to be one of your best friends as you settled in more in this school. She was the one who convinced you to join the YSD cheer squad in the first place. She was warm and bubbly and completely hyperactive that you couldn’t but say yes from both pressure and curiosity at the same time. It was worth a try anyway. School required you to join at least one club, and although Bendy tried to persuade you to join theater, you made an excuse that you were scared of the limelight and that it creates conflict with your schedule, letting you go with a dramatic sulk.
So you compromised and told him you’ll come by and watch if he wasn’t busy.
He was happy enough with that.
“YIPPEE! I’m so glad you want to join the squad!” Shelly jumped around with her pom-poms in excitement before grabbing your hands. “I can’t wait for you to meet everyone!”
The shell toon taught you the ropes in cheering. You were surprised yourself that you managed to even pass try-outs let alone cheer but here you are. You thought your movements were shaky and completely bad.
‘I have two left feet…’ You shed a tear. ‘How the hell did I manage to pass…?’
“You have potential!” Shelly gave you thumbs up as she pulled you along to practice. “You still manage to keep up! All you need is some practice around the rough edges!”
“If you say so…” You said tiredly with a smile as she taught some moves.
Safe to say from there she became one of your most prominent friends as you navigated through different friend groups, hanging out with you during sleepless nights, complaints about deadlines, and hectic projects. She was a complete chatterbox but you didn’t mind it all. In fact you were thankful that she fills the space when you run out of conversations.
“...Say, what do you look for in someone?”
You momentarily stopped writing. You invited the shell toon to your place for a hangout under the guise of a small study session. Then, she happened to stumble upon a small stash of trashy magazines you forgot you even had in your closet.
“Really, Shelly?” You turned your head to glare at her playfully.
“Hey, they happen to have great advice here. You never know.” She was over at your bed, flipping a page in giggles.
“Besides, I really want to know!”
You thought nothing of it.
It was an innocent question, nothing more.
“Hmmm…” You hummed in thought, leaning back onto your chair. “I guess someone who’s kind, makes time for me. Remember the small things about me. I think that’s sweet…”
“Huh…” Shelly stares at you.
Then you chuckled, shaking your head. “Then again, hard to think about those things when you’re too busy planning a career.”
The room grew oddly quiet for a few seconds.
“The small things….” You heard her mumble under her breath.
By the time you glanced back at her, she was smiling to herself as she went back to reading.
Perhaps it was then your friendship with her started becoming strange. The change was subtle at first. It was harmless. The little things you thought were out of friendship. She would bring you little snacks, send you a text saying good luck before an upcoming exam. She would even buy you little trinkets, saying they reminded her of you. One of them you loved the most was this little keychain with a little chocolate bar charm.
“Don’t lose it~”
You thought she was being thoughtful as usual as she was with the rest of the cheer squad.
But, eventually, the coincidences became harder to ignore.
Your favorite flavor.
The fragrance you used.
The exact date when you decided to go to cheer try-outs.
The little interruptions when talking to someone else during cheer.
One day, one of your friends from the cheer squad pulled you aside after class as Shelly and another student were in charge of returning the laboratory materials. They participated with you during auditions but you both didn’t hang around much due to your best friend sliding into your conversations and dragging you away. They looked frantic as they pulled you towards a hallway where most students don’t go. They looked around checking if there was anybody watching you before looking at you and lowering their voice to a whisper.
“Where did you get that?”
You blinked and looked down to what she was pointing at. It was your little keychain from Shelly that you attached to your bag. You blinked, filled with confusion at the sudden interest in your trinket.
“Oh this? It was a gift from Shelly.” You replied casually, tilting your head. “Why do you want one? I could ask Shelly-”
“No!” They bursted out making you flinch. They sighed, taking a deep breath before clicking their tongue. “Look, I’ve been handed this sort of thing by my parents. Called me a rebel and needed control. They sell these online in Amazoff.”
“This thing tracks your location. Doesn’t matter where you are, they'll know. I bet Shelly hasn’t even told you.” They clicked their tongue once more. “I always had an odd feeling about that shell.”
Your fingers unconsciously traced the chocolate charm attached to your bag. You found it hard to believe that an adorable accessory could be used for such a thing. It looked the same as always.
Cute.
Harmless.
‘So why didn’t she tell me…’
But, you still couldn’t help the uncomfortable knot settling into your stomach.
“Yeah. So don’t be fooled just because it’s cute.” They narrowed their eyes at you. “Look, I don’t know how your relationship with her is but even you should know it looks creepy. You better watch-”
“Watch what?”
It was amazing how well you were keeping your composure as you turned around to see Shelly walking towards you both with all smiles. Her smile looked warm and bubbly as usual, like she didn’t know anything. Yet, the air felt different with her now.
“Just discussing the experiment earlier.” Your cheer friend responded coolly, clearly experienced with these types of situations. “Lab partner I got was confused with the whole thing and I wanted to ask for notes for a quiz next meeting.”
“Oh!” The shell toon blinked and went to unzip her bag, clearly digging for her notes. “I could also help! I’ve been taking notes during the experiment if you want some extra.”
They shook their head, turning their body to head off. “Nah, it’s all good. I trust them that these are enough. Gotta run now, parents are coming to pick me up.”
They gave one last glance to you before heading off.
“Bye!” Shelly waved at them, watching their figure disappear.
“Bye….” You replied absentmindedly, clearly still processing info.
Later at night before some small late-night study, you heard your phone beep and opened it to find a link sent to you from your cheer friend. Pressing it led you to the Amazoff site and there it was, the keychain.
That also happened to be a tracking device.
“Well, what do you know…” You murmured, your heart sinked to your stomach with a small sense of fear.
Under that link, they left you a message.
How else would she have been able to find us quickly?
A few days later, you heard there was an accident with that friend as you were out sick, from the late night study, making you miss the quiz. You heard they were taken to the hospital and was lucky they didn’t break their neck from that high up the ground when they were trying out for a pyramid.
In the back of your head, you knew who did this. But, you decided to still send a message anyway.
“Don’t worry, I’m sure they’ll be okay.”
And here comes the third and an “accidentally” broken keychain.
It’s hard to think your best friend of all toons would do all this.
Then comes Cuphead, he makes the fourth. You happen to see him in most of your subjects but never paid attention all that much as you were too busy taking notes. He was one of the sport jocks and you would’ve been more scared based on flashbacks if it wasn’t for the fact he was also the class clown.
During one period, you were seated next to him, writing notes down while listening to the discussion when you heard a snore coming from beside you. Your eyes drifted to the cup toon next to you, finding him faced down snoozing in the middle of class with a few drops of liquid leaking from his cup.
‘Uh…’ You raised a brow at this situation. ‘Should I do something…?’
In the end, you didn’t really need to since the teacher was practically screeching at him.
“CUPHEAD KETTLE!”
“FIVE BURGERS WITH A SIDE OF LARGE FRIES PLEASE!” You watched as he completely jumped out of his seat at the noise, clearly just woken up and a bit disoriented as he looked around. “Huh?”
‘Must’ve had one hell of a dream…’
The class was practically snickering as they watched his face shift into a confused look. As it was the same daily occurrence with the sport jock. The teacher let out a deep sigh, clearly tired at the common instance.
“Sleeping in my class again, Mr. Kettle?” He huffed as he pointed to a problem in the board. “Clearly, you must know the lesson then. Very well, surely, you can answer this question then.”
“What is the derivative with respect to x of (x + 1)³ - x³ ?”
You could clearly see the gears shifting in his head just to come up in smoke a few seconds later, making you feel a bit of pity again when you heard the small chuckles and whispers of your classmates.
You will admit that it is pretty funny though.
‘Just this once…’ You thought as you wrote it in your notebook and slowly shifted it towards his view, tapping your pen to get his attention.
Which seemed to work as you caught his eyes drift to your table and widened before clearing his throat.
“I believe that would be 6x + 3, sir.”
“Seems you do know. I hope to see you look like you’re properly listening next time, Mr. Kettle.” You let out a breath of relief when he didn’t ask any further questions.
It would’ve been more difficult explaining the solution without him fully reading from your side after all.
After the bell rang, you bolted out of there to get to your club since there were play-offs coming up and the team needed to practice. You were unaware until later by one of your classmates that he was looking for you.
You didn’t think much of it until later when one of the English professors called you over to his desk after class. You initially thought you were in trouble, that you forgot to pass an assignment but it seemed it wasn’t the case when the teacher assured you that wasn’t it.
“Not at all, in fact you are one of the most excellent students I have in this class.” He waved away your worries. “However, I’m hoping to ask for a bit of your assistance.”
“With what, Sir?” You slightly tilted your head in question.
“A student of mine has been getting failing scores in this class.” He replied. “He’s in need of a tutor because at the pace he's at, he won’t be able to move up next year.”
“I’ve asked his brother who’s also an intelligent student but he refused.” He continued. “He said it was hopeless. Compared it to giving a calculator to a rock...”
You hummed, sweatdropping at the analogy.
‘If that’s the case, what makes him think I can do it…’ You thought.
“I at least want you to try.” He replied, clearly could see your thoughts written on your face. “If he could manage at least a C then he has more of a chance to pass this semester. If you could do that, I’ll consider this your extra credit.”
Well, with that in mind, it is worth a shot.
“...I’ll try my best, Sir.” You answered hesitantly.
“That’s good.” He nodded his head. “He should be waiting for you in the library as per instructions for your introductions if you can start as soon as possible…”
“Yes, sir.”
It was quite the coincidence to run into the cup toon once more for tutoring.
‘Shit, he must’ve been waiting for a while now since teach told me.’ You thought, panicking as you sped to the library which was at the other side of the school. ‘Why couldn’t he have at least started with that!’
Except your two feet decided it was time for them to shine.
“Woah! Watch where ya’ step!” You stumbled onto someone’s arms, catching you before you fell. “Wouldn’t want you to fall over and crack your head open! HAHA! That was a joke.”
You slowly opened your eyes to find yourself face to face with Cuphead staring at you with a cheeky grin.
“O-Oh dear!” You took a few steps back. He was a jock after all who knows what eyesight the girls have right now. He was one of the popular figures on campus since he was into sports after all besides his class clown status. “Sorry, my bad!”
“No biggie.” He waves it off. “What’s got you in a hurry?”
Realization dawned on you as you almost forgot what you were supposed to be doing.
“Sorry, have to head to the library to tutor someone. Professor instructed me that someone’s waiting for me there and I don’t want to keep them waiting. So see ya— ”
“Hang on!” He grabbed your arm before you were about to dash off. “To think my little savior would be the one tutoring me.”
What.
“Was just on the way to him checking what was the hol’ up.” He chuckled. “Never got to thank ya’ for the save.”
“You’re the one I’m tutoring?!”
Well at least you know him, sort of.
Now, you’d expect when at least knowing a bit of the person you’re tutoring, things would become a whole lot easier.
No, it wasn’t.
“Hey …” You started. English wasn’t the hardest subject when it came to college but it does have its twists and turns here and there. But you thought it was easy compared to the major subjects. But this…
His writing was dogshit.
But you didn’t have the heart to say it out loud.
“...I never thought you’d be having a hard time in this subject.” You tread carefully as you look over his test scores in the library.
“You could say it like it is, toots.” He laid his head on the table. “My brother told me already like it is. Been like this since I was little but I manage to get by…”
“But if I don’t manage to pass the upcoming exams, Coach will have ta’ put me off the team.”
You blinked before letting out a small sigh. Feeling a bit of your guilty conscience taking hold of you as you took a seat beside him. You pulled out your notebooks and papers.
“Doesn’t mean you should give up though. People aren’t good at things even if it takes a long time.” You gave a few pats on his back awkwardly. “We'll take it slow, start from the basics. And we’ll see from there.”
He lifted his head up, clearly skeptical.
But at least he seemed motivated.
So, it all started from there. A few times a week, you both would meet in the library after class. Shelly was worried whenever you planned to stay behind but you told her you would be fine and managed to convince her to go on ahead. She bought it though as she said that she had to order you a new keychain since it felt right for her to replace it.
You winced at that.
Genuinely, he was lazy at first, but honestly you kind of understood cause it is hard when you struggled to understand something for a long time and just gave up.
Still though you had to try.
"A period means stop. Comma means slow down. Question mark means..."
"...Coach questioning the referee?"
"...Close enough." You tossed a chocolate bar over to him. “Here, reward. Have a chocolate bar.”
“Toots, I’m not a dog, y’know.” He pauses. “Unless…”
“I’ll stop you right there, Mr. Kettle.”
Not everyone could be on the same level. And not everyone can learn everything all at once, but it’s the basics that makes everything else click, you thought. So, you stayed patient with him throughout even though there were times he leaves you completely dumbfounded. But you instantly shook those thoughts away, reminding yourself that he isn’t you.
There were also times where he tends to get distracted.
While looking over your notes, and multitasking in checking his recent scores in his English. You felt something bump against your foot beneath the table. You ignored it at first, thinking it was an accident.
Then came another nudge.
You looked down only to see a shoe quickly retreat from its spot.
“Really?” You looked across the table to the cup toon with a blank face only for him to look completely innocent.
“What?”
You sighed and looked at your notes once more.
Then, a few more taps on your foot cause you to groan and look up to see Cuphead wearing a roguish grin.
“If this is a way to tell me you’re done, Cuphead, then I can check y’know.” You deadpanned.
“Aw, don’t be a sourpuss, can’t be a study bug all the time.” He leaned his head onto his hand. “Where’s your sense of humor?”
“Battery’s drained.” You answered wittily. “Get back to work, hotshot.”
“You think I’m hot?”
You nudged his foot. Well, tried to.
“Hey, watch the pants!”
“You started it!
Soon, he came to improve slowly.
And you grew closer.
You were waiting in the library, waiting for him at the usual time whilst writing notes for a pop quiz coming up when the sound of the library doors slammed open, the loud bang echoing through the library that it almost made you jump out of your seat.
“I GOT A C!”
“SHHH!”
You couldn’t help but snicker, covering your lips behind your hand at his enthusiasm being halted by the grumpy head librarian. You watch him quickly apologize with his head down before quickly speedwalking to your table.
“Could you be any more louder?” You whisper-yelled even though you were clearly wearing a smile. “You almost gave our poor librarian a heart attack.”
Completely proud of him.
“Please, look at her, she’d be clearly living past her hundreds with how healthy she is for her age, toots.” He grinned, before winking showing you his paper. “‘Sides, pretty sure it’s “any louder” not “any more louder.”
“Well, look at you, Mr. Smartypants.” You replied sarcastically as you gently took the paper from him to scan it. “Since you seem like you know it all, does this mean you’ll be able to tell me the difference between “there, their, and they’re?”
“I swear who came up with that…” He pouted but paused when he saw your shoulders shaking, before bursting into such laughter that it made the librarian look over with such a glare.
“SILENCE IN THE LIBRARY.”
You quickly cover your mouth, desperately trying to hide your giggles unaware that the cup was watching you with an unreadable gaze until you look up again, wiping a tear from your eye.
“Sorry, sorry.” You quickly apologized, explaining yourself as you calmed yourself down. “You had such a look on your face that I couldn’t help it.”
“But, I’m proud, really.”
You really were.
And you hope your expression says it too by the way he was gazing at you.
Time seemed to slow as the silence stretched between you, until Cuphead’s voice cut through it.
“Say…”
“Hm?” You hummed.
“If I pass my English midterms exams…” He grinned, sitting beside you. “Will you give me another reward?”
It sounded innocent.
You didn’t think much of it.
“What, you want another chocolate bar?” You answered playfully as you went back to writing.
“Nah, I wanna change the bet.” Cuphead chuckled at your face. “Bigger things, bigger rewards? Don’t I deserve that much coming from my beloved tutor?”
You rolled your eyes in amusement, placing down your pen to look at him. “Alright, I’ll bite. What do you want? And nothing that leaves me completely bankrupt after.”
“Ya’ think that lowly of me, toots?” He gasped dramatically causing you to snort at his actions. He cleared his throat. “But nah, that ain’t it….”
“W-What do you say to some burgers and fries after?” He looked rather hesitant as you both stared at each other. “My treat?”
You stayed silent for a few seconds to process before tilting your head in skepticism.
“...Doesn’t that defeat the purpose of the reward?” You remarked, raising a brow. “Shouldn’t it be my treat?”
“Well I haven’t thank you yet for saving my butt during Calculus.” He said with a lopsided smile, his confidence coming back. “It’s the least I can do, right?”
You hummed, thinking about it for a few seconds.
Nothing harmful about it, right?
“Sure, I’ll take it. But since you seem quite motivated to pass, I should put something of my own.” You gently smirked. “Professor wants you to at least get a C this upcoming exam, right?”
“I expect a B at least, then I’ll go.” You gave an impish grin of your own. “You’ve improved this much, right?”
“...You’re the most ruthless tutor I ever got, toots.”
He still took the bet anyway. You didn’t think much of it at first as you were happy enough he got a C. A miracle in itself. But two weeks later after the exams, the results were posted. And as soon as the results came out, you didn’t exactly expect yourself to get lifted up off the ground in a twirl when you exited the library.
And you most certainly didn’t expect him to get an A.
“WHOA— ”
“Doesn’t this mean I win, toots~?” He laughed, spinning you in a triumphant circle.
You swatted at his shoulder the moment he finally put you down, trying and failing to hide your own smile.
“I swear you’re going to make me dizzy.”
“Worth it.”
You couldn't even argue with him.
He'd done it.
He'd actually done it.
However, even though you were proud you couldn’t help but notice the heated glares digging on the both of you just outside the library.
‘Man, these fangirls…’ You sighed with a sweat on your brow.
But just how motivated was he?
So here you are, 7pm at McRonalds having a small celebration to congratulate him on a job well done. Even though you were glad he passed you would at least expect him to bring his brother along or a couple of his jock friends.
“Nah, they had some stuff to do on their own. Still wanted to practice some ball.” The cup toon waved it off. “And my brother? Wanted to do some studying. Even after exams.”
“Huh…” You hummed as you finally noticed the orders arrived. “Oh well…”
“Six burgers, three large fries, and two milkshakes for Table 13?” A waiter came by and placed a large tray on your table before heading off.
“I cannot believe you have the room for five burgers and large fries.” You sweatdropped as you watched him down two burgers in a minute while you only took a few small bites in comparison thinking back to how he woke up in class screaming the exact same thing.
“It’s my go-to, helped me passed exams, eh?” Cuphead shrugged. “Thank the food.”
“Sure, right.” You snorted. “Not the tutor assigned to you huh?”
“Hey, I’m bein’ serious!” He grinned as he gazed at you. “Still, can’t forget about the best tutor who taught this guy.”
You snorted again.
You spent the next few hours talking about different things from games, college gossip, hobbies and you began to lose track of time. Somewhere along the way, the conversation drifted from school to childhood memories, then to embarrassing stories neither of you had expected to admit out loud. You found yourself laughing far more than you ate. He had a way of turning even the most ordinary stories into something worth laughing over.
You found your time with him quite fun throughout all this.
But it was also this same night where there was a subtle shift, and you began to feel a sense of fear.
Funny, isn't it?
You'd expect the class clown to be the safest person in the room.
Instead, he was the one who unsettled you the most.
“Y’know I was initially scared about you at first.” You said casually while stirring in your milkshake. “But you’re not that bad.”
“Me?” He pointed to himself.
“Nothing bad really, just remembering some things during my first day.” You chuckled and shrugged, looking back. “Bumped into one of your guys' girlfriends I think. Made her spill her coffee all over her clothes. He got so mad even when I offered for damages, I thought he was asking for a beatdown.”
“And no one came to help ya’?!”
You jumped a little from his raised voice. “To be fair, I really wasn’t looking where I was going, so, couldn’t blame him. But, someone did come to my rescue.”
You took a glance at him and caught him staring off into space, mumbling under his breath.
“...Why wasn’t I there?””
You waved a hand in front of his face to snap him from his state which seemed to have worked as he was looking at you. But, now his happy-go-lucky expression shifted into something different.
Unreadable.
Unnerving.
“Hey, hey., not like we knew each other that time.” You tried to lighten the mood, nudging him before making a small joke. “Besides, I would’ve pummeled myself since he tried to ask me out for one of his buddies to some party to make it even. I was about to punch him but someone I knew had to come dragging me away.”
Slowly, you saw him put on his smile again. “...You got some fire of your own, toots.”
His grin is exactly the same.
But, this time it felt more deliberate.
“If I was there, I would’ve knocked his lights out.”
You chuckled, thinking nothing of it. Assuming it was another one of his jokes.
Looking back, you wish you hadn’t said anything.
Maybe things would’ve ended more differently.
Because sometimes, a joke is just a truth disguised as laughter.
Three days later, you ran into a familiar sports jock. The same one who cornered you over coffee the first day you were here. You saw him while talking to Shelly in the hallway by your locker. But this time, you noticed he wasn’t the same smug hot-headed guy you remembered. He wasn’t surrounded by his friends or his girlfriend making vulgar jokes.
One of his eyes was bandaged. An arm was in a sling, and a cast surrounded his leg causing him to limp and rely on a crutch.
He froze the moment he saw you. As soon as your eyes met, his one good eye darted around in fear causing a strange unease to settle in your chest.
As if he wasn't afraid of you.
But afraid of who might be watching.
“Hey, toots!” Cuphead’s voice cuts in, causing you to turn and see him walking towards you.
But for a brief moment you caught the jock’s face turn into fear and quickly limp down the hallway, disappearing into the crowd.
“Hello~” He waved a hand in front of your face to catch your attention.
“Hey! They might still be worried about the assignment yesterday.” Shelly tried to cut in.
“What’s done is done.” He shrugged.
You blinked and sheepishly scratched your neck, thanking Shelly in your head for coming up with an excuse.
“Yeah, sorry. Still worried about yesterday since I was in a hurry…” You answered with a small sweat. Absent mindedly, your eyes drifted down and caught sight of worn bandages on his knuckles, a faint trace of dried blood staining the fabric.
“If I was there, I would’ve knocked his lights out.”
Your stomach tightened.
“Hey, what happened to your wrist?” You asked softly.
“Oh that?” The cup said with his signature grin. “Some stuff happened at practice sometime ago.”
“Seriously? The team should be more careful.” Shelly scolded him while he looked sheepish. “How are we supposed to cheer if most of you guys are down before the games begin?”
Their voices began to blur, your mind completely filled with thoughts of fear.
The way the jock ran as soon as he appeared.
The bandages…
You glanced at Cuphead.
He was laughing at something Shelly said, his usual bright smile back on his face.
The same smile everyone knew.
A chill ran through you.
Wondering if the same person who made you laugh could be the same person who made someone afraid.
Which should’ve been the fourth clue.
The last but not least is the valedictorian himself, Mugman. Who also happens to be Cuphead’s brother. This happens to be strange for you because if you have a nickel every time you happen to make friends with a brotherly pair.
It would be two.
Which isn’t much but it is unusual for it to happen twice.
“Oh, it’s you. Shouldn’t you be in class by now?”
You were standing outside the classroom finishing your chocolate bar when he passed by you, narrowing his eyes, looking you up and down before proceeding inside.
To the Chemistry Laboratory classroom.
‘Did I do something…?” You thought with a sweatdrop, looking at your chocolate bar.
You just wanted to have a small snack before class started.
Compared to the previous four however, he wasn’t exactly the nicest person you’ve ever met. In fact, he was quite hostile when you first met him. You don’t even share that many classes with him besides Chemistry, Biology, and Calculus so you weren’t even sure what you did to cause him to give you such a venomous glare across the room when you weren’t even sitting beside him.
Well, not anymore at least.
Screw it, “nicest” was an understatement.
He was an asshole.
You slide into the last open seat you could find just before the professor arrives with a breath of relief when you check the time.
Which happened to also be the seat right next to the mug.
“You’re forty three seconds late.”
‘Him again…?’ You thought with a sweatdrop, turning your head to find him next to you pulling out his notebook and pen,
“You’re late.” He murmured in a plain tone.
"Class hasn't started..." You trailed off.
"It almost did.”
And that wasn’t the only time that happened.
You let out a sneeze during Biology period. You covered your mouth politely with a tissue, following common courtesy.
Seated right beside you, you could clearly see Mugman’s face wrinkle and brows knitted together as you sneezed.
Without even looking at you, he slid a hand sanitizer to your desk.
Which made you blink before sighing under your breath and whispering a thank you as you opened the small bottle.
“So, you won’t infect the other students.” He remarked as he flipped a notebook page, making you stare blankly at him.
Wow.
And you don’t even get a bless you?
He just seemed annoyed by every little thing you do that you were starting to wonder if it was your existence that was the problem. The next class period you had with him, you came early and took a seat in front of him this time.
“Alright, class, to check who were the students paying attention to yesterday’s lecture…” Not even a few seconds after the professor writes a few problems on the chalkboard, the whole class groans and sigh in unison. “Who can find the derivative of this function?”
f(x) = 3x⁴ - 5x² + 7
The room falls silent. A few students glance down at their notes while others avoid eye contact. You looked over your notes for a few seconds to check if your answer is correct before raising your hand.
“f(x) = 12x³ - 10x…” You answered.
“That is correct.” The professor smiles at you before looking back to the chalkboard. “Now proceeding to the power rule, for a small recap…”
As you jot down notes during the discussion, you hear a faint voice coming from behind you.
“...Lucky.”
Really? Your face slowly shifted to a deadpan when you overheard him.
It was from then on, you decided to try not to sit near him. You’ve asked Cuphead if you’ve done anything wrong but all you got back was him shaking his head and saying that it just sounded like his usual mood.
‘Usual mood?’ You thought with a sweatdrop. ‘But, why does it still feel like the animosity is still aimed at me…?’
You’ve tried to ignore it, but it seemed like the universe was also out for you as well, as it seemed to have woken up and decided that it wanted to cause havoc on the whim, specifically targeting you, a student that just wants a career and a high-paying salary. Because, a few days later, the professor thought to pair you and the mug up for a presentation in two weeks time.
And it was 60% of your grade.
Which needed 100% cooperation from the both of you.
You were tempted to just peel off the tape holding his glasses up and calling it a dat
‘How did it come to this…’ You thought, sulking into your chair, turning into a puddle as soon as the professor called both of your names. It didn’t help that you could feel his gaze digging into your skull from afar.
You sighed to yourself again.
“This will be quite the doozy…” You whispered softly to yourself.
After class period, you found yourself face to face with the one person who seems to hate your existence, staring at you with a neutral expression. Just looking at him, you found yourself growing tired by the minute.
And you had cheer practice to get to.
“We need to get started as soon as possible.” Mugman remarks with that tone of his and suddenly you feel a headache coming on. “The first draft of research information should be done by tomorrow tonight and we still have to split up the work. Unless you’re deciding to procrastinate and use cheer practice as an excuse-”
Oh fuck no.
You felt something in you crack. With a twitch of a brow, you grabbed his school tie and pulled him down to your eye level causing him to let out a yelp. You stared him down with a glare that was enough to kill and opened your mouth.
“Look, I had the patience of an angel these last few weeks ever since I had the pleasure meeting you. A complete ray of sunshine. I have no idea what I did, but you’ve been acting like a complete jackass whose pen is clearly up his butt that it’s making me pray and thank the celestials above for making the day brighter each time we aren’t in the same room together.” You took a deep breath.
“And I’m not even religious.”
Ah, that felt good releasing all that anger.
You let him go, making him stumble back for him stare wide-eyed and completely gobsmacked like a squirrel at you. You mumbled under your breath as you pulled a small random piece of paper from your bag and clicked a pen to scribble on it before grabbing his hand and placing it on his palm.
“Here, my number.” You grumbled, before zipping up your bag and turning to walk away. “We can talk about the details later. But, right now, I’ve got cheer practice.”
You then walked off only to sweatdrop and stop when you found Boris waiting at the end of the hallway for you.
“Shelly asked me to come and get you.” The wolf grunted softly. “At least it wasn’t a one way fight this time.”
You groaned again, exhausted, dragging a hand down your face before proceeding to walk past the wolf before he followed behind, tail softly wagging.
By this time, you weren’t aware of Mugman gazing at his palm where scribbled on the piece of paper was your number.
That night as you got into bed, legs and arm sore from practice, you found yourself blinking at a message coming from the smart mug.
Are you available to meet at the library tomorrow to discuss our project?
He sounded more reasonable when it comes to texting, you thought, quickly typing yes, before placing your phone beside you.
The next day, you quickly ran to the library, just barely making it before your meeting time. You took a minute to catch your breath before opening the door, still slightly panting from all the running.
It didn't take long to find him. Mugman was seated at a table by the window, completely absorbed in whatever he was writing. Scribbling away without a care in the world, he didn't notice you appear until you pulled out the chair and sat across from him causing him to look up.
“You’re here.”
You were expecting at least a small comment about how you were late once again as you gazed at the clock at the far wall behind him.
You still apologized anyway.
“Sorry, if I kept you waiting.” You muttered with a small sigh, as you pulled out your laptop and a few papers. “Had a small errand to run by a professor.”
“You weren’t late.” He cuts in all of a sudden causing you to blink. He cleared his throat and slid a paper towards you which was filled with his own research. You blinked again in confusion, feeling a sudden change of air coming from him before letting out a sigh of relief and went to look over his paper.
However, as you were scanning in silence, his voice pops in again.
“I’m sorry…”
You almost flinched, looking up to find him staring at the notebook instead of you. His grip around his pen tightened ever so slightly.
What.
"...For my behavior."
The words came out stiffly, as though he'd rehearsed them a dozen times and still wasn't satisfied with how they sounded.
What.
‘Where the hell did this come from?’ You stared at him, completely stunned.
Was this the same toon that was onto you just for eating a chocolate outside the classroom?
“Behavior is an understatement.” Words instantly slipping from your lips
You and your big mouth. You wanted to slap yourself.
He winced at your words, shoulders slightly sagging by the smallest fraction.
“I guess I deserved that.” He sighed, as he fixed up his glasses. He paused as if he was trying to search for the right words before looking at you with such an intense gaze that you were almost taken aback.
“How’d you do it?”
You squinted your eyes, a puzzled look appearing on your face. You didn’t understand what he was saying.
“...Do what?”
“This!” He flailed his hand about causing you to jump. “You managed to tame my brother, a literal rock for brains, into sitting down and studying. And, English, his absolute worst subject that I spent years, haggling down just to get him to look at a simple word. And he got an A in his midterms. An A? It’s completely absurd!”
He stood up from his seat, pointing at you.
“I thought that was a miracle itself.” He exclaimed. “Then the midterm results came piling in, and I found that I didn’t get the top scores! You managed to get the highest with Chemistry and Calculus of our entire grade! Scores that I was supposed to get! A complete danger to my GPA!”
‘I did?’ You were completely dumbfounded. You didn’t even know.
“I didn’t even look at the rankings…” You muttered to yourself.
You swear you saw him pop a vein.
“What.”
Also the only toons you know who would have access to the grades would be the professors and the student council according to what Bendy told you, because he offered you if you ever needed a change in the system…
Which sounded completely illegal and made you highly refused.
You didn’t really need it.
“Actually, how do you even-”
“Doesn’t matter!” He blurted, placing his hands on the table. “How did someone like you, someone who thinks chocolate bars are a sustainable part of a healthy diet, manage to lay low and grab the top scores with my top subjects? What secrets are you possibly hiding?”
He finishes, taking deep breaths from his whole speech as you stare at him blinking astonished and definitely speechless.
“This is what the whole thing’s about….?” You trailed off as you watched him drop down to his seat, face completely red and steam rising from his cup from what you assume came from humiliation before promptly burying his face in his hands. “That’s why you’re mad at me?”
“That is the dumbest shit I’ve ever heard.” You put it bluntly.
You swear you saw an arrow struck through him.
You cannot believe this was the whole reason you felt daggers all over your back these last few weeks. It sounded utterly ridiculous that you couldn’t help a snort escape you. Then, it turned into giggles. Before you know it , you couldn’t help but throw your head back in uncontrollable laughter causing him to sink further into his chair.
Unfortunately, the librarian wasn’t all too fond of the noise.
“SILENCE!”
“You thought I was plotting against our dearest valedictorian’s GPA?” You wheezed.
“It sounded viable at that time…” He muttered. “Can we get back to our project now?!”
“No way, this is way too funny.” You wiped a tear from your eye. “I should save the date.”
“COULD YOU STOP?”
Things became way smoother after that. You suppose he was one of those overachievers who wanted to do all they can in college. You understood where he was coming from but you weren’t exactly planning to stretch yourself out with that kind of pressure.
Also, it really wasn’t your thing.
“So you weren’t aiming for my spot?” He questioned, squinting his eyes at you as if unconvinced when it was time for the library to close.
“Celestials, no!” You waved it off as you zipped up your bag, walking out together. “That wasn’t the goal. It’s just a matter of survival for me when it comes to those subjects. I’m surprised myself that I, of all toons managed to get first.”
“Unbelievable. And I was about to consider you my rival.” Mugman muttered. “You’re way too relaxed for this.”
“I like to read in my spare time and catch up on a bit of studying.” You shrugged as you pushed open the doors, letting him out first. “Didn’t think it was enough to get me top.”
“But, how did you deal with Cuphead?”
You hummed, placing a finger on your chin to think about it carefully the times where you had to tutor Cuphead.
“Patience. And the basics. Also placed a bet with him as well, like a reward system.” You caught him staring at you with a blank expression. “What? It’s true.”
“That’s all?”
“The basics are enough to get you through. I wasn’t expecting him to get an A overnight but he slowly improved.” You nodded your head and sighed at him. “Not everyone is going to be the same level as you are. Everybody’s got their own learning pace. Doesn’t mean we should push them to do something. It defeats the purpose of wanting to learn and pressuring them only brings them down. I’ve tried to learn how to bake many times but I’m still bad at it, seeing as the brownies I bake are almost always burnt black.”
Mugman’s face wrinkled from that.
“But that’s why you gotta have some patience.” You continued, glancing at him with a small smile. “Think about it.”
As you walked outside the school, you jabbed a thumb towards one direction.
“I’m gonna go through here, that’s where my car is parked. See ya!” You gently waved before going on your way.
“Right, bye...”
Soon after that, you began to notice the change of tune with him. He was still a bit of the stern, tightwad, smart mug you came to know but it looked to you he calmed down. He still scolded you for being late to class once and while even if the professor wasn’t there yet. But this time, it sounded less sarcastic.
There were even times you found yourself surprised by him.
“You forgot your notebook.”
You froze as you watched him placed a familiar notebook you thought you lost a couple of days ago placed in front of you. You looked at him in question as he took a seat next to before Chemistry started.
“Oh, thanks…”
And there was a time he offered you his umbrella when it started raining which made you completely puzzled.
You stood beneath the covered walkway after class, watching sheets of rain batter the courtyard just as most of the students went home when you heard footsteps coming from behind you.
“Here, I don’t need you catching a cold before presentation.” He dropped his umbrella onto your hand but before you could even say anything he was already off.
‘Doesn’t that mean he also had a chance of catching a cold?’ You sweatdrop as you watch him run into the rain.
“I thought he hated you?” You flinch from the familiar voice, looking behind you to see Bendy standing there with his impish grin.
You sighed, feeling a chill go down your spine, deciding not to question how he even knew.
“So did I…”
It was getting weird. It was like he was everywhere. But you managed to think nothing of it, moving past it as the two of you slowly finished up your presentation. He had been relentless with finding references, checking sources, and gathering information that you eventually had to physically drag him away from the library table.
“We need to finish…” Mugman groaned as you dragged him out to a burger joint. “This is delaying our progress.”
“No, we need to eat.” You pushed open the door to McRonalds. “Look, you may be a robot but I need sustenance. My health is in danger.”
“Your whole diet is a warning.” He muttered as you settled him into a seat. “I swear you’re turning into Cuphead.”
You sighed, shaking your head at him. “You need to learn how to tone it down. Relax. Relentless studying is going to get you nowhere. You’re only gonna wear yourself and get the opposite effect. Now, what do you want?”
He stayed silent for a few moments before grumbling. “French fries and a soda…”
You smiled at him causing him to look away.
“Just…go order.”
He was learning to relax at least. Maybe, he wasn’t all that bad.
It became routine for you to go eat together every once and while after working on the project, even if he kept complaining about finishing work. Soon after, he became the one dragging you out to eat, especially a few days before the presentation.
“C’mon.”
You blink blearily at the sight of him getting up as you were still typing into your laptop.
“You need a break.”
You stared.
Those words coming from him felt almost unnatural. A few weeks ago, he was the person who looked offended whenever you suggested leaving the library before closing.
Now he was the one shutting your laptop.
“Get up, you need to eat.”
Despite you both being at each other’s back about it, he now seems less of the tightwad you used to know. Even Cuphead blinked, speechless when Mugman came dragging you away, mumbling about work to do while you were still talking to him. But you noticed how the tension in his shoulders seems to have lessened or how he smiled more as you managed to get him to talk while you finished up designing the presentation.
“Never knew you liked romance novels.” You commented from behind him. You were just coming in after cheer practice when you found him reading instead of his usual writing, completely absorbed. He looked like he was scared half to death as he almost jumped out of his seat, clutching his book to his chest.
“I-It’s not what it looks like!” He said completely flustered from being caught.
“Hey now, I didn’t mean it like it’s a bad thing.” You blinked, taking a seat beside him, noticing the book title. “Jane Eyre? It’s been a while since I’ve read that.”
“You have…?”
You raised a brow before smiling.
“I am no bird; and no net ensnares me: I am a free human being with an independent will.”
“Quite the quote, don’t you think?” You looked up at the ceiling , feeling exhaustion taking over for a few minutes as you shut your eyes unaware of his eyes on you.
“I will admit though, that the romance between Rochester and Jane is rather morally grey.” You said after a few minutes. “Hiding the truth of his wife, locked away? That’s difficult to look in my eyes.”
“...I disagree.”
You hummed, cracking an eye open to glance at him.
"It was wrong." He answered as he looked at the book. “But his fear was understandable.”
“That would be an excuse.”
"But people rarely make rational decisions when they're trying to get the future they want…”
You sat up from your seat, leaning your head on your palm, sweatdropping. That was surprising, you would’ve thought he would come up with something more logical.
“....That’s strange coming from you.”
“It’s my opinion.” The mug toon shrugged before placing his book down and going back to researching.
Perhaps, it should've been here that you realized opinions had a habit of revealing far more than facts ever could.
That opinions are more than what they are.
When presentation day finally arrived, everything went about as smoothly as you thought it should be. He was surprisingly composed in front of the class, delivering each point with the same quiet confidence he carried everywhere else. All you had to do was match his. There were a few moments where one of you stumbled over a transition or skipped a detail, but the other would seamlessly pick it up without missing a beat.
And you both ended up with an A and one impressed professor.
“Well done, you two.” They clapped as you finished the presentation. “Of course, coming from my best students.”
However, you thought when everything was finished, things would go back to the way they are. But, things started to become even more strange. Something about the mug toon changed. He became more competitive as if there was some kind of rivalry between you.
In fact, it got worse.
He kept challenging you when it came to quizzes, essays, lab reports, the small things.
Even your deadlines.
You were beginning to get tired.
He became more aggressive.
A few days later, after one Calculus period, one of your classmates came forward to ask you for some notes on the lesson. You explained to him based on what you understood and showing him your notebook how you solved a difficult problem the professor wrote on the board.
“What are you doing?”
You looked behind you to find Mugman standing with an unreadable expression that almost made your heart drop in fear. It was strange.
You’ve never seen him like that.
“...Helping him?” You trailed off, confused. Even the guy next to you was scratching his head, wondering if he’s done something wrong.
“Why?” You swear you saw him gritting his teeth.
“He needed some help.” You looked at the toon next to you and handed him your notes with an apologetic look. “Sorry, here. You can look over this and return it to me later.”
Not even a second later, you were immediately pulled out of the classroom into an empty hallway where he slammed against the wall next to you that made you dare not to escape.
The toon standing in front of you was the same one who always spoke calmly, complaining about what you do, always had an answer to your comments, always looked like nothing could shake him.
His jaw was tense.
+
“Why are you wasting your time with him?”
“He needed help, Mugman.”
“He could’ve asked the professor.”
“Perhaps, it was too late-”
“WILL YOU JUST STOP?!” The sharpness of his voice echoed through the empty hallway that it made you jump back from his raised voice. You can feel yourself trembling, scared to your wits. You weren’t sure what to do.
“Mugman…”
He looked almost angry.
Almost desperate.
His eyes were unfocused, as if he was seeing something entirely. Looking way past you, and arguing with a different thought.
“...I should be the one.” You heard him mutter. The words were barely audible.
“I should be the only one who understands you…”
You froze, clutching your hand to prevent yourself from shaking. You didn’t know what he was saying. Yet, everything felt so wrong. You took a deep breath and slowly placed a hand on his arm, gently easing it down.
“It’s…” You muttered softly. “It’s time to go home, Mugs…”
From the sound of your words, he seemed to have calmed down and you gently stepped away, saying you two could hang out tomorrow at the library which was enough to reassure him.
As soon as you got to your car, your head slumped down on the wheel as you finally noticed how you were shaking. You took one look at your hand and saw how it was trembling from earlier.
How there was another mark.
Right beside Bendy’s.
You let out a slow breath, trying to calm yourself down.
“What was that…?”
You whispered as if the empty car could give you an answer.
This was the fifth and the last clue you remember.
Maybe the most rational person is the one you should question the most.
If only you'd seen everything sooner, maybe you could’ve prevented everything that happened.
Maybe you could’ve saved student after student from being expelled.
Maybe you could’ve saved the accidents from happening.
Maybe you could’ve saved the student who decided to end himself from a failing grade.
Maybe you could’ve saved the one who mysteriously decided to fall from the building. You could still clearly see her corpse in your head, the same girl whose clothes were stained from matcha.
None of them deserve this.
No one deserved it.
And most of all maybe you could’ve saved yourself from this madness.
But, here you are, stuck in this room like a empty doll, becoming your own Bertha Mason.
WHAT DO YOU MEEEAAANNN?? I totally didn't draw a bunch of Boris doodles as a thank you to @espinfeather for doing my request! THATS CRAZY!
I-I can't even DRAW Boris! HA!
Close up under the cut!
Boris: "Bendy's just accepted it as if it were fate or somethin'..."
[REDACTED]: "Dang, dats crazy, dawg."
Thinking deeply on chair. Thinking deeply about life. Thinking deeply about how the artist couldn't draw friggin chair legs and is casually on a flying bench. Sigh.
Boris: Sighs, "Thanks...I... needed that. You're a good friend..." Big bear hugs.
[REDACTED]: "Oh. Yeah, of course, man." Pat pat while suffocating. /j
Boris: "Fren, we are having the fun today."
[REDACTED]: "Wuh...?" Gets picked up.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Did I tag right? I dunno we'll see...
I would've never tackled drawing this guy if it weren't for this little story over here. A lot of the doodles are inspired by the moments in the oneshot (except the last one, Boris is just taking his friend on a random hang out lmao)
Myth Boris deserves more love people!
And thank yous to the one who did my request! Yer cool!
Random thing: I don't have a motm oc so when I read 'xreaders' in this fandom I just imagine a faceless stick figure toon. I'm creative trust
So here are some doodles of him! I had the hardest time trying to characterize him as a partner so I mostly chose ambiguous scenes. Could be platonic, could be romantic, up to you!
Close ups under the cut!
[REDACTED]: "C'mon, Mugs! Let's get goin' or we'll be late!"
Mugman: "HEEEYYY—HEY! PUT ME DOWN! I MIGHT FALL!"
[REDACTED]: "Relax! You're not that heavy!"
Mugman: "AAAAH—"
Mugman: "I'm glad you wanted to spend the new year with us."
[REDACTED]: "It's nothing really. I'm just happy in your company."
Mugman: "O-oh...you are?"
They nod.
Mugman: "I know you're tired, but mind gettin' offa me—?"
Cuphead: "Pft."
Mugman looks down and they're fast asleep. "Oh."
Cuphead: "Ain't ya gonna wake 'em?"
Mugman: Sigh, "Just leave them for a bit. It's been a long day."
Mugman: "Aaaand gotcha!"
[REDACTED]: 0_0
Mugman: "Whew, that was close...you alright?"
[REDACTED]: Scowls, "I almost fell to my death just now. Does that seem alright?"
Mugman: "Okay, jeez, sorry. I was just trying to help."
[REDACTED]: Grumble, grumble.
Mugman: -_-' "Well, you seem alright so—!" Drops them.
OW!
Nose kisses for the man. Boop boop boop! This is sooo ooc. But I indulge in this.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I was SO scared to draw mugman because I only really drew the game version of him but I think these turned out well! I even made more than four doodles this time.
I never really analyzed Mugman as a character in Motm so I wasn't sure how he'd really be as a partner. I know how he'd be as a BROTHER and maybe as a friend, but I'm not sure how it translates to other folks.
So my brain was like: oh, the only way he'd really have a partner in this point of his life is if it's pre-established. So, before the events of the comic.
Hence, I made doodles of them being childhood friends!
Headcanons!
Honestly? With how much of his life seems to go. He probably never confirms if anything is romantic. His life is constantly unstable, so unwavering commitment can only be a dream. And, he likely wouldn't want to drag someone down with him and his brother. But, still wants to keep this person around if he likes them enough. Interactions probably shift between 'can be perceived as romantic' and friendly.
In public, he likely wants to keep any relation to them very low-profile. It isn't good for someone in his area to show his vulnerabilities. He already has his brother as a blaring one.
If this person confronts him and says they want something romantic, he'll more likely than not turn them down. His job is dangerous and he could never promise wholely that he will be able to come back to them. Only once he's gotten his life together will he come back and finally allow himself to be involved.
Who knows when that will be?
Random thing: I have a bone to pick when the show drew mugman and didn't draw his head as a MUG. Like wtf is a mug to you people? Why when I see some fanart his head drawn almost identical to Cuphead. Am I crazy? I must be crazy...A MUG IS TALLER THAN A FKING CUP PLEASE IM CRYING AT HOW OFTEN I SEE IT.
Anya is live and ready to show you everything. Watch her strip, dance, and perform exclusive shows just for you. Interact in real-time and make your fantasies come true.
✓ Live Streaming✓ Interactive Chat✓ Private Shows✓ HD Quality✓ Free Actions
Free to watch • No registration required • HD streaming
People really liked the Boris stuff. So here's his brother. I made it a bit more romantic because I started watching Win or Lose and I felt like Yuwen would kinda fit how Bendy would act as a partner...like as a headcanon. But my writing skills are trash so I can't do it right criess
But I LOVED how uniquely artistic the series was when it came to talking about certain topics. Uh but anyway Myth Bendy! He's so cool y'all.
Close ups under the cut!
They got kicked out of a bar for their shenanigans so now they gotta talk on the sidewalk. What sidewalk? Shhh, just imagine it.
Bendy: "Is this s'ppose to be your tactic to get me to open up?"
[REDACTED]: "This is my tactic of telling you that I trust you."
Bendy: "...Well, I...What do I say to that, hah?"
(I had an idea for this drawing and it probably doesn't make sense if you don't know the original scene. The picture included with the drawing is it lol)
[REDACTED]: "Butterflies live really nice lives. They hatch as ugly worms, eat, sleep for a few days, then turn into such pretty things then die as beautiful things. Why can't life be as simple as theirs?"
Bendy: "Pft, where's the joy in living like that? Personally, I enjoy the love and anguish of life. Well, the anguish much less."
Bendy: "No, you didn't deserve that. And I'm sorry." Mwah.
[REDACTED]: "Bendy."
Bendy: "Right. I forgot. I should really stop doing that."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Its much messier because it's genuinely my first time drawing Bendy. BY GOD HIS HEAD IS HARD TO DRAW HSHFABN. Drawing with the circle ruler more often than not makes it worse for some reason. But I HATE my uneven circles.
But I hope y'all like it anyway. See ya on the next one!
[REDACTED]: "Did you know that a shrimp's heart is in its head? Does that mean that Shrimpo isn't actually hot headed but 'hot hearted'? HA! That was funny, right, riiiight?"
Boris: "Mhm..."
I love to draw cuddly Boris...
Napping buds! Wonder how you'd sleep with a loud snorer like him?
BIRB! Shelly that's not how you hold a bird!
Bendy: "See, you could never go wrong with flowers."
[REDACTED]: "Wow, these are gorgeous! Where'd you learn to make these?"
Bendy: "Mm. Just somewhere. Don't worry about it."
The night is young and the music is alive! Swing and dance with me!
If anyone says anything about the hands, I hope both sides of your pillow are warm/j
I'm a bit bias when it comes to this mouse. So, tried some stuff on ibis paint, took me a while since a couple of weeks ago since I kept putting it on hold.
₊˚⊹♡ 𝙎𝙔𝙉𝙊𝙋𝙎𝙄𝙎 : You’ve always wanted to be an actress and was willing to break yourself for it. However, when things started to look dim and you began to lose hope, you had an encounter at the restaurant. From there, who knew you’d meet someone else who was also a dreamer?
₊˚⊹♡ 𝚆𝙾𝚁𝙳 𝙲𝙾𝚄𝙽𝚃 : 12.1k words
₊˚⊹♡ 𝚆𝙰𝚁𝙽𝙸𝙽𝙶 — Angst. Possible canon divergence. Still figuring out how to write him so ooc. Uh, don’t smoke kids. Possible cringe. Not exactly one for love at first sight irl but oh well. Kinda made Dandy seem like a villain here sorry.
⋆.𐙚 ̊— MOTM! BENDY X RISING ACTRESS! READER
₊˚⊹ ᰔ SECOND POV.
You weren’t really that well-known as a waitress, however you are a familiar face. Whenever a patron walks in the restaurant, you’re greeted one way or another by them when jotting down their orders or when you’re bringing them their meals. Regulars, nearly every time, would be giving you friendly smiles, a few waves, and you would take a small pause to make some chit-chat each time.
Some even remembered your name, but stuck to a nickname. In a way, it makes you feel beloved each shift.
Might even be the best part of the job.
“Hey Sunshine, some napkins over here please!”
“Coming!”
“Can I ask for water, Ms. Sunshine?!”
“Already on it, kiddo!”
“Why not refill some beer at this table, Sunshine?” A group from one of the nearby tables called out, holding a large mug with a silly grin.
“No way she’s gonna do it.” One of his friends whispered.
“Now, you know the rules, Sal.” You placed a hand on your hip pausing at their table while skillfully carrying some trays with a cheeky smile, before walking passed the group moments later. “It’s literally 2 in the afternoon, and you’re on your second cup, no less. What will your wife say?”
“Aw shucks!” He snaps a finger, the teasing grin still there as he responds back in a playful tone. “Worth the shot, though.”
The restaurant echoed with laughter, bright and joyful. The other regulars chuckled as if this was a normal occurrence with you playing along with them. It was all in good fun and silly jokes.
But, you wanted more.
୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧
“What you up to, my little sun?”
“Dad, dad look! The evening star!” You remember the times when you were little, stargazing with your father just by your bedroom window. Pointing to a star that never seems to move as long as your gaze was on it. You remember the fairy tales he would tell and the stories he would spin up, leaving you in giggles and laughter in the end.
“In one of my stories, it says if you wish upon the evening star, all your dreams would surely come true!”
You remember your Mom joining in with you and Dad.
“Well, you wish on that star, sweetheart.” Your mom giggled as she sat on your bed. “You’re as stubborn as your father.”
“True, my little sun.” He paid no mind to your mom. You remember your father hugging you all together before gently placing a finger on your chest,
“Wish and dream with all of your little heart, my little sun. But you remember that that old star can only take you part of the way. You gotta help it along with some hard work of your own, and then, yeah, you can do anything you set your mind to.”
“Just promise your Dad, one thing.” He brought you into a hug.
“Never lose sight of what’s truly important, alright my little actress…?”
“Ok…”
୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧
If only you knew what awaited him a month later.
“How’d that audition go, Sunshine?” One of the patrons asked. It was the mother of the boy who needed napkins after diving his face into some chocolate cake. To which, you delivered of course, placing a large amount onto their table. “Dazzled the judges?”
“Oh, you know the usual. Didn’t make it.” You sighed dramatically, playing it off. In a few seconds, you slip a large grin onto your face.
A practiced one.
The performing one.
“You’ll catch ‘em next time, Sunshine!” Another table calls out to you. “Those suckers don’t know what they’re missing!”
“SHUT IT, TONY! LEAVE THE POOR LASSIE ALONE! CAN’T YOU SEE SHE’S DOWN IN THE DUMPS ALREADY?” A patron skillfully throws a wad of napkins directly aiming at the said toon’s head.
“YOU PICKIN’ A FIGHT WITH ME, EZEKIEL?!”
You quietly laughed, the scene of your regular banter putting your mind at ease for a few moments. A distraction from your worries. The smiles and cheers from customers to try again. The rejections sitting back at your crumbling place in piles. The thoughts of failing after leaving the audition and leaving knowing you did mess up.
The silence awaiting you after a bus ride home.
It’s become a never-ending rehearsal.
And you know they’re simply trying to cheer you up each time.
You knew they were just playing along.
“FUCK YOU, TONY!”
“WELL, FUCK YOU TOO, EZEKIEL!”
You snap out of your state at another round of their banter and silently take a deep breath, blocking out the familiar restaurant buzz, and the noise of bustling laughter before tucking your troubles into the back of your head and slipping back into reality with your usual smile. Returning to your usual work routine.
“You know me, never give up!” You gracefully spun around before setting down some dishes at a table.
Yet you can still see it. Their exaggerated expressions, their movements, the force from their cheers when you came back with another failed audition.
Putting on an act of their own.
“As much as I like your cheers, especially from you two, you better take it outside.” You chuckled, wearing a grin. “The boss will have my head if his beloved restaurant ends up in pieces because of a little food fight.”
The restaurant erupted in laughter once more with you laughing right along with them.
For a moment, you forgot your worries.
“Sunshine! Come over here, would ya?”
And everything was alright.
All until you met him.
You spun around to see your boss standing near the doorway with his same old impatient look, tapping away with his feet. Your eyes drifted to the side to find a toon right beside him.
‘A demon…?’ You tilted your head as you went over.
“You got some skill in serving!” You heard him say.
It wasn’t everyday you see a toon in the form of a demon in this side of town, considering their reputation. He was in the typical white and black shades as you see with a lot of them around. Pointy horns, well-dressed and looking smart with a bowtie, vest, and button up shirt with a pair of trousers and loafers to boot.
“Easy on the eyes, doll!” The toon wore a roguish grin, in a way that was more charming than of arrogance. “I know it’s a burden to be this dashing.”
Perhaps, you shouldn’t have met him in the first place.
He lets out a theatrical sigh, brushing the imaginary dust off his clothes.
For a brief second, your skin tingles. Not in the sense of a romantic pull or resembling some kind of infatuation. But, in recognition. There was something uncannily familiar about the way he carried himself and the confidence shown just by his presence. Even his exaggerated movements and the way he spoke felt rehearsed but at the same time still spontaneous. Like, he knows he is being watched.
You blinked, keeping your expression in place.
“Dashing, huh?” You hummed, playing along. “Quite the assumption. You do seem to think quite highly of yourself, my good sir. Certainly not lacking in confidence, that’s for sure.”
“Don’t destroy the poor fella, Sunshine!” A voice coming from one of your regulars pop up, catching your attention for a brief moment making you laugh with some of the other crowd murmuring and chuckling from what they were witnessing. “He just got here!”
“Don’t mind them.” You shake your head with a smile. “They don’t know what they’re talking about.”
You then turn your head to your grumpy boss who was sighing and folding his arms at the crowd like some disappointed father, silently giggling in your head at his irritated face.
“So, what’s going on, Boss?” You pulled his attention away with a grin, paying no mind to the demon watching. “You planning on hiring a sous chef or some new waiter? Cause if he’s coming for my “Employee of the Month” I’m not letting it go that easy.”
The big boss sighs as he glances at the toon before looking back to you.
“This toon over here wants a show around town.” He jerks his thumb towards the man. “He’s new here, so he hasn’t explored much yet.”
“And he came here?” You raised a brow to which your boss gave you a look. “Not to be rude or anything, but it's a bit strange to come into a random restaurant for this kind of thing.”
You then swivelled around, about to walk off to continue your work.
“Sorry, but not exactly a tour guide over here.”
But, before you could take a step, the toon’s voice joins in.
“He said you know where the theater is.” The demon clears his throat. “I just need someone to guide me the way.”
“Please, Miss.”
You paused, glancing back to the toon. It was as if by instinct, when you noticed the air around changed. For a second, your breath hitched when you saw it, and you felt your heart skip a beat. It was as if it was the same way you do when you step into the room. The same practice.
The look of someone with ambition.
Another dreamer.
Like you.
“YOU LOOKING TO AUDITION FOR SOMETHING?! OUR GIRL’S FAMILIAR WITH IT!”
“ZIP IT, TONY!”
You flinch when you hear the familiar banter, pulling yourself out of your daze.
“You’re the one with the most knowledge, kid.” The boss chimes in, pulling your attention. “Up for the job?”
You raised a brow, feeling the crowd’s eyes on you, a feeling that you’re used to as you stared the toon down. What felt like hours of contemplation, piling into a single minute, you sighed, closing your eyes.
“I’ll double this month’s pay.”
“And I’ll make it worth your time.” The demon winks to which left you unfazed.
“Alright, you got me.” You looked at the demon toon with a neutral expression, making him jolt a little from the sudden movement. “Not today though, meet me over here tomorrow morning. 8 o’ clock. Don’t be late.”
Just as you turned to get back to work, you glanced over your shoulder at him. He simply met your gaze with a look of quiet confusion.
“Sorry, but I never got your name.”
The male grins, and you can feel the confidence radiating off of him.
“Bendy. You can call me Bendy, doll.”
You really shouldn’t have met him.
୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧
₊˚⊹ ᰔ THE NEXT MORNING - 7:50AM
And here you are, ten minutes earlier than the meeting time. You weren’t exactly a morning person. You swear that sleep is being a luxury these days from these worries. But, after another late night from the constant loop of thinking and disappointment while staring at the ceiling after receiving a few more rejection letters at your door with the additional electric bill that’s waiting silently on your kitchen table, you’re still going with it. This morning you found yourself getting up early for a shower and getting dressed despite the exhaustion.
“Times can get tough, sweetheart but that’s what hard work is all about….”
You gently leaned your head against the wall bored, before peering at your watch.
8:01 AM.
He’s late.
You clicked your tongue, grumbling as you’re feeling the mood swings kicking in from the sleep deprivation.
“...I could really use a smoke.”
“That ain’t really healthy, don’t you think?” A voice pops in, coming from your right.
Your eyes drift to the side to see Bendy standing a few steps away from you, hands casually in pockets. There was a hint of amusement just tugging at the corner of his lips, no doubt from hearing you talking to yourself like some kind of weirdo. You straightened your posture and looked at him.
“You’re late.” You deadpanned.
“By a minute or two. Figured you’d survive.” He shrugged as he watched you yawn. “Aren’t you just a ray of sunshine in this fine morning, doll.”
‘He’s still on that?’ Your nose wrinkled at the nickname before shaking your head. You then began to walk, your hand waving beckoning him to follow you. “Come on, the sooner we get started, the earlier-”
You then felt a tug from your coat gently tugging you backward. You turned your head to see him staring at you. You felt a sudden tingle on your arm but brushed it off, wearing a poker face.
“What’s wrong now?”
“What’s the rush, doll? Not like we’re on the road to dying or something.” Bendy jerks his thumb to a nearby cafe behind him. “Breakfast?”
You narrowed your eyes at him.
“You do realize you made me wait, right?”
“From what I saw, you look like you were early.”
“Common courtesy, since I gave the time.” You rebutted, putting on a practiced smile. “...Still, made me wait.”
“And now I’m paying back.” He remarks back, folding his arms with a cheeky grin.
“By making me wait longer?” You raised a brow, playing along.
“By treating you to breakfast.” He points back to the cafe once more. “My treat.”
You paused in hesitation, your gaze shifting between him and the cafe. After a few minutes, you breathe a sigh of defeat and switch directions, heading towards the cafe with him catching up and walking beside you.
“Don’t tell the boss man about this.”
“That you’re not properly doing your job as a tourguide?” His grin widens.
“No, that we're paying a visit to one of his competitions.” You shake your head, feeling the corners of your lips lift upwards but kept calm before the demon notices. “Would break his heart.”
“Oh.”
୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧
“You know you never told me your name yesterday.”
“...Did I? Well, I suppose it’s only fair since you did give me yours." You murmured as you were both settled down waiting for the meals to be served in about fifteen to twenty minutes. You sighed and gave him your name.
“Oh?”
“What?” You took a sip of coffee, closing your eyes as you feel the warm caffeine in your bloodstream waking you up. “My name too good for those lips?”
“Wait, that’s not it!” You saw him splutter. He then cleared his throat, pulling himself together in a matter of seconds.
A true performer indeed.
“I was just surprised, that’s all.” He scratches the back of his neck. “I remember the crowd calling you sunshine yesterday.”
“Oh that?” You shrugged, leaning your head onto your hand in thought. “Just some nickname I picked up along the way. Not like I started it. Just some hard work I put into being nice to the regulars.”
Hard work?
‘What a joke….’ You thought miserably.
“I mean I think I see the charm despite your morning grouch.” You slightly narrowed your eyes at those words.
“Why are you so interested in getting to know me anyway…?” You sighed, feeling yourself drain a bit.
“Not sure.” He hums, watching your reaction.
You looked up from your coffee, finding yourself stiffed under his intense stare. You felt unsettled as well as vulnerable. You felt strangely exposed under his gaze as if he was peering through you, taking a peek underneath the persona you’ve been using.
“I just think we have something in common…”
What you were hiding.
What you were still barely clinging on to.
You unconsciously tightened your grip around your coffee.
“You seem like a dreamer.”
Before you can open your mouth to respond, a waiter appears to interrupt the atmosphere, bringing you your orders that you were grateful for. What perfect timing. As they set down the dishes, you take that moment to take a breather and gather your thoughts, taking a large gulp of coffee, letting the warmth from it distract you for a few minutes.
“Aren’t you the Dancing Demon, The Darling Dancers?!” You blinked out of your daze, instantly deadpanning when you see Bendy acting sheepishly with the server who looks to be gushing from what you understand. “Aren’t you two usually a duo?”
“Darling Dancers…?” You murmured.
Was he famous?
“That’s me!” Now you could tell with the exaggerated gestures that he was putting on an act. “As for my partner, duty calls from his area, but I’m here on business.”
“My younger sister talks about you.” The waiter says cheerfully, pulling out a notepad and pen. “You were about three towns over performing right? Oh, my sis will be so happy about this. M-May I ask for your autograph?”
“Anything for a darling fan!”
Alright, but you really had to keep your poker face from wrinkling just from that.
You weren't entirely sure what to make of this because from the people at the other tables, they didn’t seem all too interested. However, you can see there were a few eyes at your booth.
‘So is he famous…?”
You stayed unusually quiet throughout breakfast, your thoughts lingering on your earlier scene. Every so often, he'd ask another question, patiently drawing you back to the present before your mind wandered off again.
୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧
Even after the cafe, you still find yourself thinking back to that scene. You were only supposed to give him a tour, make at least some small talk and then it was done. And then after, you don’t ever have to see him again. Go about your day and deal with your work shifts once without ever having to worry about him while you were trying to make your own dreams come true.
Yet, why does it hurt?
You barely knew him.
You shouldn’t get distracted.
“I just think we have something in common…”
“...Not that it’s any of my business, but y’know curiosity kills the cat.” You began as you both strolled together in the streets, introducing him to thE best shops and where toons usually go. “But I doubt it's only a coincidence that you came into our restaurant asking for a tour. Either you didn’t want to pay for a fee or you must be one of the pals of my boss.”
Bendy hums, tail gently swishing behind him. “Close, but not exactly. Friend of a friend. My partner told me that this area would be a great place to perform our next show.”
“Hm, well that answers why you wanted to check out the theater here.” You murmured, thoughts surfacing in your mind. “And I’m guessing your partner is your little half of your dancing pair…”
“Oh~ now you want to know about me now, doll?” The demon asked with a teasing grin.
“Just wondering about my client who wants a tour of our oh, so beautiful town. You’ve asked a lot of questions about me, haven’t you?” You exaggerated, playing to his tune as he lets out a chuckle.
“I just thought we seemed similar.”
You had the same thoughts but wasn’t willing to make that connection yet.
“And I still have no idea what you mean by that.” You sighed with a small smile. “Ah, looks like we’re at the park.”
“Sure you don’t.”
The air felt casual now, with the way you two were talking as if you were both old friends with the classic banters. You were both walking at a comfortable pace as joggers and cyclists drifted through the area with the sound of children playing as if it were white noise.
Little by little, you found yourself unconsciously getting attached.
“...You know you never asked about it.”
“About what?” Eyebrows knitted together as you glance at him in question.
“About what happened at the coffee shop.” He commented. “You seemed to be at least curious about that.”
You were but you didn’t know whether to ask to further the connection you both had at the moment.
“...And if I am?”
“Then, you only need to ask. Not like I’m the devil or something.” Bendy responds, his hand drifting about with the same cheeky smile. “C’mon, I’m an open book, baby.”
“Right.” You shake your head at his antics, feeling a grin tugging at the corners to which he responds with a bigger smile when he catches sight of it. “And that won’t result in you blowing up that ego of yours?”
“Hey! I can be a humble guy.”
But, you couldn’t help but want to know more about him with each moment beginning to feel he was less of a stranger.
“...Alright, I’ll bite.” You sighed, rolling your eyes with a smile causing him to look smug for a brief second. “What was that about?”
“You could at least ask a bit more nicely, ya know.” He catches sight of you deadpanning and continues. “But if you must know, I'm a bit of a dancer. Been in this entertainment shindig together with my partner, Dandy for a little over a while now.”
“Darling Dancers, wasn’t it?” You pondered. “For a star, I would at least expect a bit of a crowd interrupting our meal.”
“Ouch!” He places a hand over his heart. “I’m still in the process of it sweetheart. I’m getting there.”
A laugh slips past your lips, with you covering it up with a hand, catching you off guard. But, Bendy hears it anyway, and for a moment you weren’t able to see his gaze on you with his cheeks faintly pink while still looking triumphant.
“I suppose, in a way this makes sense. Especially with you wanting to check out the theater.” You wiped a tear from your eye as you finally set sights on the park’s exit, “You seem to be quite the performer.”
He pauses, taking a stop as he watches your figure walk past and ahead of him. “Now, what does that mean…?
“I think you know exactly what it means!” You called out from afar with a grin. “Now quit dawdling over there! Hurry up with those legs of yours, we still have the theater to see!”
“Now that just hurts, doll. Are you calling me short?”
“Quit the dramatics, we’re just about the same height, if not a little taller.”
“Still hurts.”
୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧
The theater wasn’t exactly grand or lavish. Nor was it exactly over the top. It wasn’t exactly the first choice for anyone to perform there from first glance but it was still decent, carrying a quiet charm of its own. Especially at night with the lights casting a soft glow that attracted the eyes of every toon together with the marquee in bold letters of whatever performer was there that night.
This was the very same place where your dream was born.
You remembered your father taking you to your first show when you were little. If you could recall correctly it was a simple show about a princess who dreamed of her prince only for him to appear as a frog. It was quite blurry really since it was that long ago.
But, you remember the sparkles, the singing, the crowd. You remembered how the audience were clapping and cheering thundering throughout the theater while they toss out flowers into the air as the main actress took her final bow underneath the stage lights.
And she was glowing.
And you wanted nothing more but to take a step into that world.
“Dad, I want to be a star!”
“You have my support, my little sunshine.”
And now here you were back in the same spot where it all began. After the countless auditions you went through, held here. And you tried your luck at the town over. And the other town over. The begging, the pleading, the anger, the time off from work, the lines you’ve practiced, even after all that. All for them to write the same answers through letters.
The same script, the same ending.
The same gentle rejection.
Yet, you’re still trying.
You stared at the doors longer than you liked to admit as if it were the very gateways to your wish. For a brief moment, you felt yourself worn out, your gaze dull as you looked at the place unaware of the demon’s eyes on you.
‘Is this really what hard work gets you, dad…?’
“Hey.”
“Hm?” You blinked, snapping out of your trance when you heard Bendy calling your name. You turn your head to him. “Something the matter?”
“Nothing, you just seemed occupied, that’s all.” You saw that his hand outstretched towards you to which he quickly pulled back with a sheepish look. “What’s got you thinking?”
You were silent for a few seconds, clearly contemplating what answer to give.
“...It’s just been a while since I’ve been here, that’s all.” You decided to settle with as you took some steps towards it. “Used to come here all the time when I was younger.”
Bendy’s eyes widened a little before he follows behind you.
However, before you can reach the door, you heard a yell coming from your far right.
“HEY!” You stiffen, swivelling your head to find a security guard walking towards you both.
“Sorry, you two, but theater’s closed right now.” The security toon says with a gentle but firm tone. “There’s been a bit of an accident in the comfort rooms, so they’re still working on that.”
“Oh, we weren’t aware of that, sir.” You responded politely. “I was giving my friend here a tour around our town. And I thought to let him check this place out.”
“Ah, a newcomer, eh? Well, tough luck today, kids.” The guard scratches the back of his neck, unsure what to do. His eyes glances at the demon for a moment before turning to you. “Better come back in around two weeks from what I heard. Then you'll get to see her in all her glory.”
“Understood, officer!” He gave out a playful salute to which you sighed and gently placed a hand on your forehead.
“...Well, see you around, kids. I still have some business to do. Got an errand to run.” He narrowed his eyes and walked away. “Don’t get into trouble, you hear?!”
As you both watch the security disappear from a far enough distance, your eyes slowly drift to the toon beside you. And you can clearly see that the horns and swishing tail weren’t just for show as you watch his grin slowly spread across his face, looking crafty.
“You look awfully happy…” You commented, raising a brow.
“Let’s sneak at the back.” He says straightforwardly, pointing with his thumb at the theater.
What.
“And get caught?“Are you crazy?!” You hissed in objection to the idea. The very thought of it was absolutely ridiculous.
He simply chuckled, completely unfazed from your glare, waving it off as he still pointed back to the theater.
“C’mon! It’s no big deal! I do this a lot of the time when checking a place out.” He pulls your hand, dragging you along despite your protests. He had a bit of a firm grip on you as you stumbled a bit following him still a bit stunned before sighing in defeat.
“Every performer needs a backstage door unless they want to get smothered by the crowd.”
“Just from previous context, it sounds like you were either robbing the place or this is all some masochistic nature of wanting to get caught.” You replied sassily in which he responded back with a snort. “What am I supposed to tell the Boss?”
“Nothing.” He said as he looked left and right for other security guards, finding none. He then replies with a wink. “That, or letting him know that you’re having a great time with me.”
“Ok first of all, this is absolutely ridiculous and we haven’t a clue if the door is actually unlocked.” You remarked as you now stood before what you assumed to be the back door. “Second of all, I’m finding those implications kind of vile.”
The demon snorted once again as he placed his hand on the door and turned. He turns his head to the side to glance at you with a smug look. “What do you know? It is open. Also, doll, you’re quite naughty for even thinking of such a thing.”
“I’m making you realize how ridiculous you sound.” You groaned, dragging your free hand to pinch the bridge of your nose. “I still find this whole plan kind of cra-”
You let out a yelp before you could finish your sentence as he pulled you in and closed the door in an instant.
For a second, you were standing there, gathering yourself when you heard Bendy whistle tugging you gently to follow him. As you blinked you found yourself up at the stage, with the white lights still on, in front of the red seats you remember all too well from where you watched them perform.
“...Wow.” You mumbled, completely speechless from its beauty, unconsciously letting go of Bendy’s hand as you walked around the stage, feeling the warmth leave your hand for a single moment as you got distracted. Clueless about the face he wore when he looked at that hand,
“Wow, indeed.” You flinched and quickly turned to see Bendy staring at you in a way that made your breath hitched. And, suddenly there was that feeling again. As if he can see your thoughts once more. Being vulnerable under his gaze as he watches you under the lights.
Glowing.
‘Beautiful…’ He thought, before shaking away his thoughts.
He then puts on his usual smile as he walks towards you to gaze at the empty audience. For a brief moment, you both imagined the audience’s applause, the whistles, and the cheers before he spoke through the silence.
“Y’know, when you said it’s been a while since you’ve been here, looks like it was true.”
“I wasn’t lying when I said that.”
“I know.” He hums. “Still, looks to me, you haven’t been up here before.”
“I have. Was here auditioning for some plays.” You said, face turned away from him, still distracted from the sight of the whole theater in front of you. “Had a few small roles, but mostly ended up rejected…”
“Is that so? Is that why they said you were familiar with this place?”
It suddenly dawned on you what slipped past your lips.
You turned to look at him, trying to disguise your panic only to see him just standing there, watching you.
Just listening…
Not an ounce of judgement nor pity from him.
‘It just slipped out…’ You thought, trying to keep your composure.
“I…”
He was just there…
Watching. Listening. Waiting for you to continue.
What was strange to you is that it made the truth slip out more easily than you expected.
Was it because you were both dreamers?
You silently exhaled as your gaze looked afar with what felt like nostalgia.
“My dad took me to my first play when I was little.” You began as you went to sit down at the edge, dangling your legs. “I was absolutely fascinated. I remember how I felt like the world disappeared when they started, like I was a part of it. It was only a simple play, some princess kissing a frog who turns to some prince. But…”
The demon stared and listened in awe, carefully taking apart your expressions from behind.
“I saw the lights, the singing, the applause that echoed through the entire theater as the actress, well the princess, bathed in it, and took her bow.” You chuckled. “And I told my dad, I wanted to become an actress.”
“Decided to audition for some roles when I got older, still am. Sometimes, it pays the bills but still at that restaurant. Sometimes got close to a big role but never made the cut.” You shrugged. “Still do it though. He supported me. Always said it takes some hard work to make those kinds of wishes true and made me promise to never lose sight of it.”
‘But, was it…?’ You found your thoughts dwindling once more, before you shook them away.
Was it all that’s needed?
I mean, you’re still here trying.
Perhaps…
“...I wanted to become something more.” You turn your face to the side to glance at him to huff a laugh at his look. “Silly right?”
“No, it isn’t.” He pops in. “...I get it.”
He’s familiar with the feeling. He’s been in your place. He knows all too well with how far he’s made it right now.
“I’m a performer after all.”
The toon held out a hand to you making you raise a brow, confused by his gesture because you came towards a realization.
“...Are you trying to kick me while I’m still down, dancing demon?” You felt the corners of your lips lifting upward.
“Now, that would just be mean.” He responds back just as playful, a glint in his eyes. “But, we have this theater all to ourselves. Would be a shame if we were to waste it, don’t ya think, doll?”
You snorted, taking his hand as he pulled you up and onto the center of the stage.
“What is this, improvisation?”
“Maybe, maybe not.” He winked. “Just go with it.”
You stumbled a bit as he placed a hand on your waist and lifted your hand causing you to flinch a bit at the suddenness. You felt your face heat up a little from the closeness.
“Relax…” He murmured. “Follow my lead.”
Oh, you couldn’t just let that go.
“You underestimate me, you just caught me off guard.” You answered as you followed in his footsteps, wearing a grin. “I think I’ll be just fine.”
“Really now?” He wore a grin of his own, guiding you to spin around, watching you laugh as you spin gracefully with warmth in his expression.
Soft giggles and laughter gently echoes through the dancer as you danced at the stage. It was if you both were in a play all on your own. However, there were theatrics between the both of you that made you stumble a bit with a small laugh like you were trying to outdo the other.
“You’re not that bad…” You said quietly in a teasing tone.
“Would be an insult to my reputation, doll.”
“In the making.” You chuckled.
“Still counts.” He softly smirks. “You’re not so bad yourself.”
“As someone who acts, there’s things you have to learn before trying to pursue it.” You answered playfully.
With one smooth motion, he caught your hand and drew you into a sudden dip. A startled squeak escaped you, your eyes widening before you dissolved into helpless laughter, the dance coming to a gentle stop.
Bendy looked down at you, wearing the most self-satisfied grin.
"Still better, though."
“...Now that was just unfair.” You answered in giggles, catching your breath. “That’s cheating.”
“Sorry doll, but I’m the dancer over here.”
You were about to retort only for the words to die on your tongue at the gap between you two. In the middle of all of the dancing, the distance between you disappeared as you found yourself staring at him. The black and white toon seems to have realized the same thing as he held your gaze.
All of a sudden you were of the grip on your waist and the hand intertwined with yours. There was barely any space between the both of you, close enough to catch the movement of each breath
For a brief moment, neither of you said a word.
Until he tried to speak.
“I…”
“HEY, WHAT ARE YOU TWO DOING HERE?”
The moment shattered when you both glanced toward the entrance, only to find a security guard standing in the open doorway, staring at the two of you.
“How did you two even get in?!”
“Whoops! Seems that’s our cue to go!” The demon skillfully pulls you away backstage, his movements swift with the steps of the guard sounding quietly behind you.
You both were lucky to make it out of there and down the street, catching your breaths. From what you’ve seen, it was at least a different guard so you wouldn’t have to worry about them completely grasping and having memorized your faces.
“Worth it.”
And, he still had the galls to grin.
You shake your head with a huff, even if you knew there was no hiding your smile.
“You’re an idiot.”
“Hey, you enjoyed it!”
“Still doesn’t make the idea any less dumb.” You flicked his forehead to which he responded with a dramatic sound of pain making you roll your eyes.
He’d make quite the actor.
“But, I did…” You murmured, making him pause from rubbing where you hit and look at you wearing a soft gaze.
“Thanks for making today fun…”
“No problem…” He trails off, words just coming out automatically as if he couldn’t believe what he was hearing.
You then peer at your watch. “It’s getting late, we should get going soon I guess.”
“Oh, uh yeah…” He muttered, still on auto-pilot. “Do you want me to walk you home or something…?”
You let a small chuckle from the strange look he wore before shaking your head.
“No, I got it. My place is close from here, so I’ll be fine. You look like you just got knocked out, however.” You paused for a second, wondering if there was anything else.
“See you…” You muttered softly, with a smile before walking off with a wave.
“...See you.” He muttered back, under some lovesick gaze as he watched you get further away.
‘See you? See you?! See you again, See you later, That’s all you could say?!’ You dragged your hands down your face with a groan once you were far enough, gathering your thoughts. ‘Just what were you thinking?!’
You thought back to what happened back at the theater and all of a sudden you felt memories streaming in your head, and you immediately felt yourself getting flushed. Especially how close you were…
“Pull it together.” You hissed to yourself, slapping your cheeks.
“Don’t lose sight.”
Perhaps we do have something in common after all…
୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧
₊˚⊹ ᰔ BENDY'S POV.
When I got back to the inn that night I couldn't help my lips from turning upwards even when I fell back into bed. I thought she was just an interesting waitress that he recommended to me as a guide.
But she was even more extraordinary than I thought.
I found myself wanting to see her once more.
“You underestimate me, you just caught me off guard. I think I’ll be just fine.”
My eyes widened a little at that moment, finding my eyes lost on her determined but playful gaze, letting me lead me for a second before I found my footing and confidence once more.
‘Can’t let her show me up, can I…’
I saw that confidence. The gaze of someone with ambition.
The gaze of wanting to become something more.
I gently dragged my hand down my face feeling my grin splitting across my face that it almost hurt. I still felt the warmth of her hand and the feeling against her. The closed walls that broke at moments that made my heart turn. The witty answers and words we shared were coming back to me.
I remembered it all.
The moment broke when I felt a burning sensation in my throat and suddenly felt dizzy. I quickly stumbled into the bathroom, coughing up black ink into the toilet, trembling as I was wobbly and ending on my knees as I was vomiting and heaving.
Celestials, it was getting worse.
I can feel the ink spreading.
‘Dammit, where’d I put that dip?’
I pulled myself up, grabbing the bathroom counter and groaning as I pulled open the cabinet and grabbing the bottle to take it. I felt myself cool down and finally breathing again.
Fuck.
It wasn’t that bad yet.
I still have time.
I heard the telephone ringing. I jolted, sitting upward from bed as I immediately put on a business smile and took it up to my ear.
“Hello, Bendy speaking.”
“Now, what were you thinking? Sneaking into the theater like that?” I heard the familiar voice of my flowery friend and partner, Dandy. The mechanical echo from the phone paired well with his laugh. “We’ve been through this so many times that I can't help but wonder if you just want to get caught.”
Hm, she said the same thing.
“Just wanted to check out the places before the next show. Can you blame me?” I answered with a sigh.
“You keep that up, friend. I'd have to start preparing for your next case.”
“Hardy har har.” I rolled my eyes. “How’d you figure out anyways?”
“Got eyes around, my little demon friend. Said you were there with some tour guide eh?” For a second I felt a slight chill in my spine before shaking it off.
Sometimes, he could really be creepy.
But, all for good entertainment, am I right?
“I was only there for a quick moment anyways. Some guard said there was an accident so we might need to change some schedules.” I informed as I took up a glass of water.
“Already on it, buddy.”
I paused for a second before speaking once more.
“...Hey, mind if you do me a little favor?”
୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧
₊˚⊹ ᰔ YOUR POV. — A FEW DAYS LATER.
Perhaps it was really a one time thing.
You found your days a bit more monotonous after that day. Strangely enough, you didn't feel like your usual self even when you put on your happy persona in front of the regulars and do your usual tricks. You were a bit lackluster for wear even when you tried to shake the thoughts of him away as you served the dishes.
Whether he was going to come here again.
For some reason, you felt your chest tighten causing you to pause for a second before the kitchen door before taking a silent breath to gather yourself and push it open.
“Hey, Boss.” You played it casually, jerking a thumb at the door where the customers were waiting. “Table 9 has been waiting for their usual fried salmon and getting a tad bit impatient. You know how they are. So I wanted to check on you.”
“Got it.” He answered, looking up for a second from his pan.
“Also, Table 5 requested no lettuce or onions on their burger.” You walked around, carefully organizing some condiment bottles along the way. “Kind of unhealthy but oh well.”
“Also, Table 6—”
“Are you still waiting for that demon, kid?” He cut you off.
“I—What?” You blinked.
“Saw you staring off into space when checking inventory. Not to mention, I heard you saying you forgot the napkins to that mother and kid that always made a mess of himself from a banana split. Either, you have an off-game today or something else happened on that tour.”
Your cheeks turned faintly pink for a moment.
“I have no idea what you're talking about.”
“Huh….” He looked up at you and blinked before looking back at his cooked fish.
“Maybe, I'm wrong then.” He said. “You’re just not usually the type to lose sight of things…”
You tensed up at his words but recovered almost instantly.
“I am. There’s auditions at the next town over and I want three days off this coming Friday. Main character as always.” You held a dramatic grin. “Role I’m aiming for this time is about a woman who loses her three kids by the river and is in search-”
Your boss sighed, gently throwing his pan down a sink and wiping his sweat causing you to flinch at the banging sound.\
“...Kid, I love you. And your dad would be proud to see you all happy. But…” He turns his attention to you, his eyes filled with frustration laced with worries.
And you can feel a piece of you breaking as you watch him take a silent breath.
“Shouldn’t there be one point where you just stop…?”
The silence between you lingered. Heavy, and for the first time you couldn’t meet his gaze. The worries and concerns for you. Knowing there was disappointment in his eyes.
Knowing he was just like the rest.
“Look, I offered to take you in for your ma, and I know you said you were gonna make it big.” He muttered. “And I believed you then. But, times have changed. And I want to be fair to you but I also want to be fair to the customers so I just-”
For the first time, you let anger take hold of you as you yelled in his face.
You didn’t want to be in defeat.
Not yet.
“I WILL!”
Not ever. Even if you have to break yourself for it.
“YOU HAVE NO IDEA HOW HARD I WORKED FOR THIS!” You untied your apron and threw it down, thoughts of carelessness taking hold of you. You didn’t care whether or not the customers heard you. “YOU THINK I WANT TO BE HERE?! WELL, I DON'T!”
You stomped towards the back kitchen doors. “I’LL MAKE IT THIS TIME, JUST WATCH!”
“Kid, I’m—”
However, before he can even get a word in, you are already gone.
୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧
₊˚⊹ ᰔ BENDY'S POV. - THE NEXT WEEK, MONDAY.
“What do you mean she’s not here?”
It’s been a while since I’ve visited this restaurant, and although I can admit the food here was good, I wanted to see her. I was busy, making some preparations and I wanted to surprise her. I was going to tell her some good news only to find a different server by my table, taking my order. I blinked as I took a look around the room and felt the crowd here was slightly dimmer than usual. So, after the waiter took my order, I did what I had to do.
Sneak into the kitchens to ask her boss.
He was mad at me of course but sighed in defeat almost immediately, since I was one of his friend’s pals.
Connections, am I right?
“Exactly, as I’ve told you.” The big toon looked hesitant for a second before letting it all out to me. “Look, she stormed off a few days ago after taking a few days off for her usual trips as she might have told you. I was just worried about her life and throwing it all away. She’d be back by now, but seems she’s in that mood, probably got the same answer…”
Ah.
“Might be up at her old apartment building with the old water tower near the park. Bit of a hiding spot of hers according to the regulars.”
“I’ll handle it.” I pulled a wad of cash from my wallet and placed it on the kitchen counter before heading out the back door. “Keep the change, and enjoy the fish for me, would ya?”
I heard her boss’ voice from behind me just as I opened the door.
“...Haven’t you just met her? What would y’know?”
“A lot more than you know.” I shortly replied before letting a small smirk form. “We’re kind of similar, don’t ya think?”
The boss never answered.
୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧
₊˚⊹ ᰔ SECOND POV.
The lighter clicked a few as you held it between your fingers, the small flame letting a small yellow glow as you tipped the cigarette in your lips towards it, watching it burn. You drew a small breath and exhaled, watching the small grey streams escape into the air, drifting lazily and vanish in the wind.
‘Been a while since I’ve done this…’ You gently closed and inhaled again, letting the smoke linger for a brief moment before exhaling once more.
In this brief silence, You allowed yourself to disappear, and let your worries loosen and weight drift away, becoming simply gray wisps.
“...Sorry, you really are good, but we found some toon better. If you could just wait.”
“But, I…”
There it was again, the gentle let down.
“...Maybe, he was right.” You murmured, the look in your eyes becoming cloudy.
“Who was right?”
The voice chiming in, startled you as you swiftly turned your face around to see a familiar white and black demon standing at the doorway of the rooftop, heaving and panting.
‘Was he running?’
“You really do have a thing for a grand entrance, don’t you?” you sighed, peeling off the cigarette from your lips and holding it between your fingers as you watched him gather himself. “Let me guess, the boss told you?”
He was still huffing and puffing as he stumbled a bit to the edge where you were.
“Well, it did take me a while to find this place y’know.” He playfully glared at you.
You hummed before looking out at the town and taking another drag. You held out a cigarette pack to him as an offer.
“Nah, my brother would kill me if he caught me doing that.” He shook his head as he watched you. “Doesn’t want me dying early," he said.”
“You got a brother…?” You murmured, you glanced at him.
Seems you’re learning more about him.
“Younger.” He responded. “Was worried when I went into showbiz. Didn’t want me to leave.”
“Is that so?”
“Went anyways. I wanted to become something more.” He leaned over the edge, watching your expressions. “Wanted to live and leave a mark.”
“Like you.”
You didn’t have a witty response towards that. Not this time. Perhaps, you were really giving up the pretense, the denial about the familiarity and connection you had with him.
You let out a humorless chuckle for a short moment before allowing the silence to fill the air and settle between you.. It wasn’t comfortable per se, but it wasn’t unbearable either. The only sounds that filled the air were the soft sounds from breathing a cigarette and sounds of people below in the streets, gently chattering and going about their own business.
After what felt like an hour, you spoke up.
“Went to audition for a main role at the next town over.” You started. “Got considered, the judges said I was good, but it went to another in the end, and they gently let me down. Got a letter the next day, did not make it any better…”
You stared off into space, thoughts far away. “Almost got there, but got cut off.”
“Wish and dream with all of your little heart, my little sun. But you remember that that old star can only take you part of the way. You gotta help it along with some hard work of your own—”
You pressed the cigarette tip against the concrete, putting the light out, as if to silence the voices in your head from breaking your heart even more.
Maybe…
“Maybe, I’m just one of the unlucky ones…” You let those words slip out, your gaze looking down, hiding your expression.
You were giving up.
Maybe they were right not believing in you.
“Hey, don’t say that. You got this far haven’t you?” Bendy says, placing a hand under your chin to lift it up to face him. “Didn’t you make a promise?”
Never lose sight of what’s important.
You gently placed your hand above his, gently putting it down with sadness and frustration clearly shown in your face, barely hiding it anymore.
“Well, he’s dead. So maybe he was wrong.” You stared at the edge again.
There was a heavy silence again as those words slipped out but you turned your face away, ignoring the lump in your throat.
“...Then, what if you got another shot?”
You turned to the demon toon, raising a brow in skepticism at the change of expression into one that seemed determined.
“I had a friend of mine to look into you and make some calls, and he wants to see what you can do. If you got what it takes.”
“I-what…” You said blankly. “Bendy, I don’t know anymore if—”
“Just trust me.” He said, handing you a card to which you glance at. “Maybe instead of hard work, you need a bit of luck as well.”
“If you can’t or well anyone can’t believe you can do it, then let me.”
Your hand shook for a second but hesitantly, you took the card.
“Why are you doing this…You just met me, you know that, right?”
“Because I want to see someone like me thrive.”
Maybe.
Maybe, you’ll give it one last shot.
୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧
₊˚⊹ ᰔ SECOND POV. — A WEEK LATER.
“...I got in?”
More than half your mind thought that you were going to be let down again. You had to admit you found the whole thing questionable. You were expecting even a letter to just throw into the garbage like the rest of them.
Didn't expect a call from the flower toon himself.
“Indeed you have, my friend. They loved it!” You hear the voice from the other side of the call laugh. “First major role on Broadway! You’re a natural, a bit of work needed here and there but it’s no wonder he recommended you! We gotta celebrate don’t you think? We got a show ourselves tonight so if you wanna join in after the show, then-”
“Oh, right, I’ll be there. Thank you. Thank you very much, Mr. Dandy, sir!”
“Well, it’s no—”
But before he could even finish you put the phone down and started squealing and jumping up and down in bed, fi.
“I got the part! I got the part! I GOT THE PART!” You then suddenly paused from jumping, realization dawning on you.
“I gotta tell Bendy!”
You dialled up his number on the telephone, remembering he gave you his number back at the rooftop to tell him if it went well.
“Just for good measure, let me know if you got in.” He winked.
“And if I don’t?”
“Oh, I know you will.”
“Pick up, pick up, pick up…” You murmured, repeating yourself as the telephone rings.
You heard the sound of clicking and someone picking up the phone.
“Hello? Bendy speak-”
“I got in.” You couldn’t help the silly grin tugging at your lips. “I got in, I can’t believe it.”
“That’s…great, doll.” You blinked at the sound of his voice. You swore he could’ve sounded happier. Maybe he was doing something? He did have a show tonight.
And what was gurgling and buzzing you could hear over the call?
“Uh, was this a bad time…?” You questioned. Perhaps, you should’ve thought about it more thoroughly.
“No, no, not at all.” You heard him clear his throat. “Was just a bit occupied. I’m really happy for you, you should know that. However, it’d be better if I give my congrats at our show, don’t ya think?”
“Oh, right!”
“...See you there?”
“Of course you will.”
If only you knew what was truly going on with him.
୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧
You got there a little bit later than you intended.
But you really got to see the two in action.
They were truly performers.
You watched as they gained the attention of the crowd with their dance. Beautiful was an understatement as you found yourself speechless as you watched them under the spotlight, shining as they impressed the audience with their rhythm and dance. The people clapping and gazing with ‘oohs’ and ‘ahhs’.
And most of all, you couldn’t keep your eyes off of Bendy, swaying the crowd with his footwork.
And you knew he knew it when he sent over a wink to where you are.
And you chose one of the seats a bit far from the front.
You found yourself a bit warm from his gaze and covered your smile with a hand to hide your awe.
What a dork.
However, immediately after the show, you sneaked backstage and jumped on him, throwing your arms around his neck, spinning you both around.
“I DID IT! I GOT THE PART!”
“Hey, you’re not supposed to be back here!”
“Don’t worry, I know her.” The demon toon says widely grinning, silencing a stage worker as he responds by placing his hands on your waist. He gives a nod to Dandy who gives him one in response and leaves the both of you alone.
“And here I thought sneaking in somewhere is ridiculous.” He said teasingly. “Your words ,not mine.”
“Well, I had to make an exception.” You responded back wittily. “ I wanted to thank a supporter of mine after all.”
He chuckles as he gently puts you down.
“I was gonna give you this as a congratulatory, y’know.” He says dramatically with a flourish as he pulls out a bouquet of roses to hand them to you. “I was a part of your success after all.”
“You’re an idiot.” You rolled your eyes, cheeks faintly pink as you gently took them from him, feeling your heartbeat quicken under his loving gaze.
“I’m starting to think that’s just a petname.”
You sighed and shake your head as you held his gaze, just as warm,
“Congratulations, doll.”
“Thank you, that’s why I wanted to give you this…” Your fingertips gently brushed against his cheek and pulled him into a featherlight kiss.
For a heartbeat, he stood there, completely still, caught in surprise. But, he responded back in a matter of seconds just as passionately, throwing his arms around your waist once more to pull you closer to him and deepening the kiss. For a moment, you both stood there, uncaring if any toon was watching as you both took each other’s breath away. Letting go to take a breath of air with little space in between, you both stared into each other’s eyes until he started chuckling.
“Didn’t think you’d catch me off guard, doll.”
“Well, I had to pay you back for sweeping me off my feet, if you recall.” You answered with a sharp grin of your own.
‘She really is beautiful…’ Bendy thought with adoration, watching you fall into laughter, hair sweeping across your face. You had your sparkle back.
And you were glowing.
“Right…” He says, gently pulling you into the dressing room.
For a celebration.
You both never talked about the kiss then.
Never got the chance to.
୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧
₊˚⊹ ᰔ YOUR POV.
From that point on, you both got busy.
You were taking roles left and right, on your way to stardom. People began to know your name from theater, the posters, and the roles you got to play in movies. Life wasn’t slowing down for you as one audition became two, and then three, and countless more with people offering you roles over the next few months. The theater was becoming your second home from the rehearsals, auditions, and plays you were in, underneath the stage lights. You were making a name for yourself.
Leaving your mark.
“I’m getting there, dad.” You muttered to yourself one day as you moved out of your apartment to ToonTown to get closer where all the big roles are. “Just watch me from up there.”
You saw Bendy once in a while whenever you both had free time even with conflicting schedules. Sometimes it was cafes, a small stroll at the park, and at times he would bring you flowers.
You both shared kisses between you as if they were a secret. You both never talked about it. Never spoke about the relationship you both shared. Sometimes, you would start it, other times he would be the one.
But you never talked about it.
Over the next couple of years when you saw him, he began looking more tired. Exhausted. Not just emotionally but like you can physically see it. His movements seemed a bit slower lately and the small dates you had began to slow.
You’ve asked the demon if he was doing alright but he simply brushed you off.
“I’m doing fine, doll. Shows just gotten a bit busy lately.” He said, one night when you gave him a call.
“Are you sure?” You heard some coughing over the phone.
“I’m good, just feeling under the weather.”
“If you say so…”
“Just concentrate on your own thing, doll. Keep sparkling…”
You began seeing less and less of him after that. Dinners became postponed and the calls got shorter. The apologies, the empty promises, all of it. It wasn’t long before he stopped answering your calls.
Success was cruel.
You were drifting apart.
Perhaps, maybe it was because both of you still had different dreams despite having plenty in common, but it didn’t help the understanding get any easier. And each time you thought about it, you felt your throat fog up and your chest tightening, a piece of your heart breaking, piece by piece.
Like something was missing.
A few days later, you found your telephone ringing while you just finished taking a shower. You quickly got out of it, putting on a towel and rushing out even with your hair dripping to pick up the phone.
Hoping it was who you think it was.
“Hey, sweetheart, it’s me…”
But it wasn’t.
“O-Oh, hey Mom. I didn’t think you would call.” You kept in touch with your mother over the course of the months no matter what, especially after your father’s passing. She was the most saddened after all.
She lost her husband.
“Seems someone forgot to tell me their new number. The voice hummed over the phone. “I had to find out from my restaurant friend of mine, what, think he’s better than me?”
“Not at all, Ma. Sorry I got a bit busy with everything.” You shake your head.
You heard her chuckle.
“I know, sweetheart. I’m just kidding. I saw that movie of yours. You were amazing. But I thought you just wanted to be on stage.”
“I wanted to expand my horizons, you know me.” You sat in bed, drying your hair, “Have a lot to experience.”
“I’m sure sweetheart. And I’m proud.” Her voice softens. “Your dad would be proud.”
Silence filled the room as your hand slowed down from drying damp hair draping it on your shoulders as you swallowed past the tightness in your throat as you felt a familiar ache. You had to admit things weren’t the same after the day your dad passed away. Your mother felt more distant. She would still laugh and joke around with you but it still felt different. And sometimes you would see her gaze out the window blankly.
“You always were a stubborn kid.” She murmured. “Just like your dad.”
You chuckled, your expression changing into one of nostalgia.
“What can I say? I try to get what I want.”
“That you do.” She says at the other end of the line. “But, I can’t help but wonder…”
“What…?”
“You sounded disappointed when I answered the phone.” You can hear her voice becoming smug. “Didn’t expect my call? Sounds as if you were expecting someone else~”
Oh no.
“So, who is it?”
And there it was. Your mom’s well-known nosiness.
And she won’t stop until she gets it.
“Ma!” You hissed, covering the speaker for a second, feeling warmth creeping onto your face.
“Mother’s intuition, sweetheart~” She said in a sing-songed voice causing you to groan and drag a hand down your face.
At least you know where you got your sass.
“There’s no one, ma.” You emphasized as you thought back to Bendy once more. And you felt a weight settled down your chest, making you sound unsure. “...No one.”
“Now, y’know I have a bigger brain than your father, sweetheart.” She sassed, knowingly. “You know I have a longer truth streak way back with him.”
You rolled your eyes and sighs.
“...Look, I don’t know.” You answered hesitantly. “He hasn’t answered my calls and it’s been a while since I saw him…”
You look back at the short calls, the rainchecks, and the questions about what you were.
Is there a name to this relationship?
Well, it certainly wasn’t friendship.
“Him…?”
“...We’ve both got a lot going on.” You finished lamely.
For a long moment it was silent at the other end of the phone, and for a second you thought she hung up as the only sound that filled the room was the sound of static and buzzing from the call. Then, you heard your mother humming slowly, almost thoughtful.
“...Did you know your father also wanted to become an actor?”
Your eyes widened at this surprising fact, but it explains why he always took you to the theater. How he always happily joined in your acts and little role plays no matter how silly they were.
He was good, but you never thought he was that good.
“No, I didn’t actually,,,.” You murmured thoughtfully at the reveal.
“Well, he wanted to be, way longer before we met.” Your mother laughs, almost sounding wistful. “He was ambitious and kept working at it even when we got together. He never stopped working at it and there were certain points where I had to make him take a break to stop him from hurting himself. But, at one point he had to.”
“Why…”
“Because we had you, sweetheart.” You heard her smile. “He wanted a stable life for you and wanted you to feel loved. As a family…”
“And he never once regretted it.”
“Wish and dream with all of your little heart, my little sun. But you remember that that old star can only take you part of the way. You gotta help it along with some hard work of your own, and then, yeah, you can do anything you set your mind to.Just promise your Dad, one thing. Never lose sight of what’s truly important, alright my little actress…?”
“Never lose sight of what’s truly important, alright my little actress…?”
“That wasn’t what he meant…?” You mumbled to yourself unconsciously.
“Wasn’t what who meant?” You flinched realizing your mom was still at the other end of the call.
“Oh, nothing, Mom. I just realized I have something to do.” You said swiftly, looking at the phone. “I have to practice my lines! Love you, bye!”
“Wait, but I haven’t—” But the line was already cut, and you were already dialing another number.
The telephone rang for a few minutes and you started wondering if no one was going to answer when you heard the familiar click.
“Hello, you’ve reached Dandy’s line, how may I help?”
“Mr. Dandy, it’s me, sir…” You spoke on the phone.
His voice buzzed on the phone. “Oh! Our newest star, it’s been a while, we should really catch up one of these days. I heard your newest role in some movie was good and impressed other directors. Really expanding your horizons, aren’t you my friend?”
“Ah, yes. Thank you very much, sir.” You answered, feeling slightly from all the praise coming from him. “Sorry, but if I may ask…”
“Yes…?”
“Have you heard from Bendy by any chance?”
The phone was silent for a bit before the toon spoke up. “Hmm, sorry, he has been quite occupied for a while because of our shows, must be why he’s been quiet for a while.”
“O-Oh…” Despite his words, you couldn’t help but feel uneasy. “Well, if you could deliver a message for me…he hasn’t been answering and he won’t see me and I-”
“Sunshine.”
You felt a chill run down your spine and all of a sudden, you felt the air go cold from his voice.
“...Don’t worry about him, alright? Just continue your journey to stardom.” His voice switched to his usual friendliness yet you still found yourself flinching even if he was at the other end of the line.
“Okay?”
“A-ah, yes sir…” You murmured. “But…”
You heard him hummed at the other end. “But, what?”
“Can I at least get his address? I want to send a letter this time if he isn’t answering my calls…”
The phone went silent for a moment.
“...Alright.”
୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧
Perhaps, the demon was rubbing off on you far more than you thought.
Alright, you lied but you really had to because you were that worried. You've already done it once, twice, so what was the harm?
“Celestials, I'm starting to sound like him.” You swore to yourself as you stepped towards an apartment building. You had to ask for directions from a few toons, however, it wasn't as difficult as you thought it would be.
You peered at the paper once more to check if it was the correct address and headed up the stairs, taking a deep breath.
You didn't even know what you were going to say to him.
He was the one who never called you back and postponed your outings together.
He said to concentrate on my roles.
What if….
What if he didn't want to see you?
What were you even going to say to him?
You paused in your steps, worries gnawing at your own mind. You didn't even think about that, you just spun around a lie that you'd send him a letter because he wasn't answering your calls. You were even surprised when you found how easy it was for those lies to slip out and go when talking to Dandy as if it were a casual conversation to some playdate.
You groaned, beginning to feel the anxiety as you paused and paced back and forth between the stairs.
You really should have thought this more thoroughly.
‘Stop it.’ You slapped your cheeks to gain some control and took a deep breath before walking up the stairs once more. ‘I’m already here, so there’s no point in thinking too much about it….’
But, why was it still eating away at you…?
Before you know it, you were standing in front of his door, hesitant to knock on the door, your hand just inches from it. Countless thoughts went flooding your brain, begging you to just turn around and leave him be. Your fingers curled for a moment before loosening and going to knock.
Well, you could always improvise.
You picked up the sound of someone groaning inside as if they were in pain. It was very faint but you knew instantly it was him.
“Dandy, if that’s your big ugly ass…” You heard a croaking voice. “Unless you brought me a jar of dip, go away…”
‘Dip…’ Unease was beginning to settle down in your stomach. ‘Isn’t that…’
“Bendy…?” You murmured quietly.
“Doll?” He says, all raspy. “...You shouldn’t be here.”
A pang hits your chest, but you ignored it, concern winning you over.
“Bendy, are you alright? You haven’t been answering me and I got worried. I had to make another exception and go through Mr. Dandy y’know!” You called out from outside the door as you continued knocking. “If you’re that sick we could take a trip to the hospital-
“Doll! I’m fine! GO AWAY!” He called out, voice frustrated. “Just give me a few days and I’ll-”
“Look, can I just come in and talk? I just wanna check…”
The door was unlocked.
You shouldn’t have.
You shouldn’t have come here at all.
You should have listened.
“You always were a stubborn kid.”
“Bendy….?”
In front of you, you could see some kind of ink forming across his skin, bubbling all over as if he was melting. He was on the ground, half of his face also bubbling and steaming, but you saw the horror in his eyes.
“Bendy…”You were in disbelief. “You have the…”
You watch him grit his teeth and yell at you.
“GET OUT, GET, GET OUT!”
“YOU’RE JUST LIKE THE REST!”
You should have helped him back then.
But, you couldn’t.
You just turned tail and ran away.
You were a coward.
When you got back home, your body was still trembling from the scene. Nothing could have prepared you for what you just saw. And a few minutes later, your telephone rang. As you went to pick it up, you heard a familiar voice echo in your ear.
“You should have listened, Sunshine…”
୨୧ ⏔⏔⏔⏔♡⏔⏔⏔⏔ ୨୧
Years later, you found yourself distracted with your roles. Repressing those memories and locking them in the back of your mind as you became more famous. You practiced every line and did every rehearsal correctly yet you felt the emotions you once had become hollow and your smile became more fake as you dive deeper into showbiz.
You never heard from him after that.
You heard news of Dandy’s side show business hit a dead end before picking itself up again.
But as a one-man show this time.
It was until a few months later you saw him in a piece of paper sent by a pair of eyes of yours, left at your front door.
And he was being hunted.
“Maybe we were more different than you thought, Bendy…”
Anya is live and ready to show you everything. Watch her strip, dance, and perform exclusive shows just for you. Interact in real-time and make your fantasies come true.
✓ Live Streaming✓ Interactive Chat✓ Private Shows✓ HD Quality✓ Free Actions
Free to watch • No registration required • HD streaming
Heyyyyy, I was wondering if you can do headcanons about the stars going to places on a plane and their first time going with her S/O because I’m in Paris rn so I really wanna read headcanons about that:)
₊˚⊹♡ 𝙎𝙔𝙉𝙊𝙋𝙎𝙄𝙎 : “Attention my fellow passengers. Welcome aboard to Kat's Cupid Airways. This is your Captain speaking.” All aboard for this first trip with your significant other and family. Wouldn't you like a vacation? With a loved one, no less? Come join as you get to travel and make lovely memories through postcards?
₊˚⊹♡ 𝚆𝙾𝚁𝙳 𝙲𝙾𝚄𝙽𝚃 : 3.3k words
₊˚⊹♡ 𝚆𝙰𝚁𝙽𝙸𝙽𝙶 — Nothing really. Well, possibly or most likely ooc, and me romanticizing the hell outta this cause I'm a hopeless romantic. Also, I had to think hard on locations. Also, first time making headcanons while being sick as hell...
⋆.𐙚 ̊— MOTM STARS! x READER
🍓 𝙼𝙸𝙲𝙺𝙴𝚈 𝙼𝙾𝚄𝚂𝙴🍓
“Vacation, hm…”
When you first saw the tickets to Italy, you will admit that a brow was raised to this spontaneous trip.
“What's the occasion…?”
“...Would you rather we didn't?”
Why would you say no?
I'd like to think Felix slipped out a little comment that convinced him to take a small trip with you.
First class, do not even try to fight.
“This isn't really necessary, you know that right?”
You looked at him questioningly, who was holding a glass of wine while a 5 star meal was set in front of you.
“Only the best for you, love.”
Perhaps, he should be thanking him when he got to see the excitement and stars in your eyes when looking out in awe in the airplane window.
It is your first big trip together. So he intends to make it the best one.
What about taking a trip through a gondola?
With the distant sound of a musician’s song drifting through the air, the faint sound of the locals and the gentle rocking of the boat. The moment couldn't get any better.
“Are you enjoying yourself?”
You glanced at him wearing a grin that suggests the glittering amusement he all too adores as he moves a bit closer to you, shoulder brushing against yours.
“Hmm, well, I think you outdid yourself, love.”
As the gondola drifted beneath the bridge spanning the Grand Canal, your gazes lingered, neither of you eager to look away. The world blurring as the space disappeared, a shared moment between two.
A couple of days after you both got back, Bugs Bunny enters his office with a little tease.
“Seems you enjoyed yourself, should I let Felix know?”
“I have no clue what you're talking about.”
On his table lies a postcard from your trip.
And you had a matching one that he bought for you that now lies on your pin board.
“You think we can go again?”
“With you love, I’d be happy to go anywhere.”
⊹₊˚‧︵‿₊୨ᰔ୧₊‿︵‧˚₊⊹ ⊹₊˚‧︵‿₊୨ᰔ୧₊‿︵‧˚₊⊹
🍓 𝙾𝚂𝚆𝙰𝙻𝙳 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙻𝚄𝙲𝙺𝚈 𝚁𝙰𝙱𝙱𝙸𝚃🍓
I'd say it's quite a miracle that all 420 of the children could fit in one airplane but we're rolling with it.
“Are you sure we have the money for this?”
“Don't worry about it.”
It was your first family trip with the Ozzy family. You knew you were going to have your hands full but you went with it happily with one or two of the kids pulling your arm.
You felt bad for the flight attendants who had to deal with the shenanigans even with the older kids and you both trying to keep it down. Oona had to catch one of them who tried to sneak into the cockpit while you weren't looking.
You will admit though, you had to cover your lips to stifle your giggles when one of the kids managed to stick a paper onto one of the attendant’s backs that said “Slap me!”
He just shook his head with a sigh, but you caught that smile.
You all managed to get there in one piece, with a few additional charges. Why? Because some of the kids managed to get into the snack cart.
A classical beach family vacation. Where? Maldives.
You had the older kids promise to be careful on the water skis and parasailing with him behind you deciding not to get involved as you give a small lecture.
Of course the younger kids had fun in the water while you both were under the shade, sipping some cocktails.
At one point, one of them dragged you out into the water, leaving him in the shade.
He watches, admiring from a distance as you all giggle and lift one of them onto your shoulder to play chicken fight.
Then, he got soaked. Lifting one ear out from his eye, seeing one of them with a water gun before they set off running with him closely behind.
The rest of you watch with chuckles as he joins you in the water.
After the long days, perhaps he really did set something for the both of you as you were now seated at the beach for a candlelit dinner.
No kids, no anyone, just the two of you.
“Did you just reserve the whole place for us?”
“No clue what you're on about. Maybe we're just lucky.”
You shake your head with a chuckle unaware of the loving gaze he wore as he watches how your hair dances with the small breeze under the sunset.
“Thank you.”
You smiled, the crinkles showing in your eyes realizing the meaning behind his words as you held his hand.
“Osmin! Osmin! I see them! Mom and Dad!”
“Alright, little slugger, let's not go bother them.”
“Aw, why not?”
“Mom and Dad need some time to themselves.”
Well, at least the trip ended on a good note, as you got to spend time with him and the kids.
And now seated above your drawer was a picture of you and the kids and a postcard from Maldives .
And him.
In a separate picture, with someone capturing a loving moment you both shared under the sunset.
Wonder who took it.
⊹₊˚‧︵‿₊୨ᰔ୧₊‿︵‧˚₊⊹⊹₊˚‧︵‿₊୨ᰔ୧₊‿︵‧˚₊⊹
🍓 𝙵𝙴𝙻𝙸𝚇 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙲𝙰𝚃🍓
“Righty-O! An adventure with yours truly, what do you say?!”
You know where I think he’d pick? Peru.
He seems like the type who would be yapping on the plane about all the sites you were going to see and the backgrounds while you look at a brochure or a magazine shaking your head with a smile as you listened.
Pretty sure you saw a flight attendant's eye twitched at one point.
Once you get there, you better hope you got comfortable running shoes because you'll be walking out and around with him everywhere.
With the views out over here, I’d say bring a camera if you wanna capture the sights.
Riding a buggy. Absolute best.
“Slow down!” You laughed, clutching his arm as the buggy bounces off another dune.
“And what? Miss all the fun? Do you even hear yourself?” He answers back with his signature cheeky grin.
Honestly, the dessert was quite the experience and you remember the sand that got in your shoes.
“Man, it's so hot!”
“Should've worn lighter, hon. Also since you're an adventurer, shouldn't you be used to this kind of weather?”
“Yeah, doesn't mean I won't complain though!”
How Sheba puts up with him, you have no idea.
Once you get to different sites, you listen to his yaps about the historical backgrounds of the place with a smile.
Of course there were some fans waiting for you as you visited some places, especially at the mountains. A smile tugs at your lips, unable to suppress your smile as you watched him get surrounded by fans.
“One at a time people! Short time only! With my lovely person over here.”
He winks over to you as he signs some autographs.
You shake your head fondly as you then head to talk to some locals while waiting and capture some photos of the view unaware of the lovestruck looks he wore along the way.
“I'd say you enjoyed the llamas more than me?”
“Whatever do you mean?”
“I saw you!”
You got to admit touching the llamas was one of the best feelings during the trip.
“Which one was better, your time with this gorgeous, most handsome, best adventurer?”
You snorted in your airplane seat to which he playfully glared at you.
“Or the llamas?”
Who’s to say?
Though perhaps remembering the memories while looking at your postcard on your bedside might change some feelings.
⊹₊˚‧︵‿₊୨ᰔ୧₊‿︵‧˚₊⊹⊹₊˚‧︵‿₊୨ᰔ୧₊‿︵‧˚₊⊹
🍓 𝙳𝙰𝙽𝙳𝚈🍓
“Is that a good idea at the moment, honey?”
You sighed and chuckled softly at the sight of him humming as he was packing his bags.
Mickey was not going to be happy if he missed another meeting.
“It's for a show darling, can't keep the audience waiting!”
Despite that, it is his first trip with his relationship with you. Just the two of you. Without his friends back in Gardenview doing the work.
“Don't worry we got it from here. Go take them out somewhere.”
Welcome to London.
Even if it was a small tour, he couldn't waste this chance and brought you along for the ride wanting you to have fun adventures as well.
“First time?”
“I'd say this is my first time being this far out from Inkwells.”
You grinned along with him when he pulled you into one of the bakeries for an early breakfast.
Exploration was definitely not quiet with him around as he took you on a cruise on the river and you got to explore Chinatown.
You got to say, both of you were stuffed from eating in that area.
Got to capture a photo in Big Ben with a fan of his taking a picture, in exchange for an autograph.
“Gotta be quick though, I have a lover I have to attend to.” He says playfully with a wink to you as he signs their notebook and quickly gets back to you.
Taking you to theme parks as you looked at them with stars in your eyes might be the best thing he got to look at on this trip.
Ferris Wheel? Of course the ferris wheel, a few days later.
Who doesn't want to go on the London Eye?
“Thanks for bringing me along.”
You stared at him, practically glowing as he admired you, gaze and all, all out in the open.
“Glad you're happy.” He grins as you both share a moment up in the air.
With you clutching your postcard.
⊹₊˚‧︵‿₊୨ᰔ୧₊‿︵‧˚₊⊹⊹₊˚‧︵‿₊୨ᰔ୧₊‿︵‧˚₊⊹
🍓𝙱𝚄𝙶𝚂 𝙱𝚄𝙽𝙽𝚈🍓
“You're up to something, aren't you?”
“Don't know what you’re talking about, Doc.”
You still narrowed your eyes at him, despite him wearing an innocent look. You then shrugged it off and went to pack up your suitcase.
Because, what can you do?
One minute later, you're on a plane heading to Spain with him humming a little while you look at the view out of the window distracted, unaware of the plans he has in store for you.
Ok, but how did he know what you wanted to do when you got to Spain?
House of candy was your first stop, second day and you enjoyed the hell out of it. Bouncy
Barcelona was absolutely fantastic, and with how in awe you were, he produces a camera just to your liking that he hands over to you during your trip.
“It's our first trip. Can't do that without some memories to share.”
“Aw, thanks Bugs.”
“I might've put your favorite knitted sweater in the laundry.”
“Say what?”
Well, that explains the trip.
But, you shook your head with a sigh and a defeated smile as you continued walking around Barcelona.
At least he also bought you a postcard to put on your wall and a plate of paella during a candlelit dinner with some music for extra measure later those days.
And a kiss to distract you for extra, extra measure.
“Sorry.”
“That was my favorite sweater.”
⊹₊˚‧︵‿₊୨ᰔ୧₊‿︵‧˚₊⊹⊹₊˚‧︵‿₊୨ᰔ୧₊‿︵‧˚₊⊹
🍓 𝙹𝙴𝚂𝚂𝙸𝙲𝙰 𝚁𝙰𝙱𝙱𝙸𝚃🍓
“It’s for a business trip, would you like to accompany me, darling?”
Now, how could you say no to that? Of course you're saying yes.
First class, champagne, and clinking of glasses, keeping it classy and jazzy.
To where?
Apparently, she wanted to go to France, Paris.
Honestly, the view of the Eiffel Tower during the mornings with a cup of coffee after a good night's rest was perfect as it is.
Scratch that, with her meeting you at the balcony a few minutes later with a peck on your cheek. Absolute perfection.
“Honey, are you sure this is a business trip?”
You wonder when you're out shopping at a department store with her picking out clothes that feel way out of your financial stability.
“What makes you think that?”
“It's been a few days since we've been here, and I haven't exactly seen you work.”
“Don't mind it, darling.”
So you didn't. Back to shopping.
A couple of days before your trip back, apparently she made a dinner reservation at a restaurant that was in the Eiffel Tower.
Something you didn't know they had until now.
“Are you really sure that wasn't an excuse to bring me along?”
“Why ask when you already know the answer, darling?”
Well, that's as good an answer as you're about to get.
Not that you mind of course because you get to stare at the postcard of Paris and a photo you got someone to take while you both were at the Eiffel Tower.
And remember a fleeting lipstick mark that now only remains in memory after that dinner.
⊹₊˚‧︵‿₊୨ᰔ୧₊‿︵‧˚₊⊹⊹₊˚‧︵‿₊୨ᰔ୧₊‿︵‧˚₊⊹
🍓 𝚂𝙾𝙽𝙸𝙲🍓
It was the Defense Team.
“Are you saying you guys don't want me here?”
“No, but yes.”
“You need a break!”
“Spend time with them!”
“Go away!”
Rude. And after all he’s done for them too.
A small visit to Mario was the nail in the coffin that sealed him to be convinced.
“Not that I don't like vacations, in fact I love them. But, are you sure you're alright with this?”
“I'm sure they'll be fine without me.” He brushes it off even though he thinks about the town once and a while and how they're doing.
I'd say you both would be asleep for most of the flight. Why?
He would not like to look out at the water.
And off you guys go! To Switzerland.
No clue, I think he'd enjoy skiing or snowboarding off a mountainside for some reason.
“You sure you're not afraid of heights? You can hold my hand.”
He said when you both are high up on the cable car where the view was most gorgeous.
“I think I can handle being off the ground for a few minutes, but thanks for the offer, Blue.” You gave a cheeky grin back as leaned your head on his shoulder admiring the view, feeling a small tap against your hair.
“Just checking.”
What a couple.
“Why can't you be like them?”
“We can't all be the same, Emily!”
You were sure you heard a couple arguing at another car but you paid no mind.
With a big place to move around, of course you guys would be moving left and right.
“I'm surprised you're not using your speed for this one. I might be dragging you around, you know?”
He shakes his head with his signature grin.
“Nothing wrong with taking it down a notch. Also, I wanna take in the sights with you.”
His grin gets even bigger when you press a kiss on his cheek.
“Besides, if you really want to explore so much, all you have to do is get on my back.”
“That would probably be inappropriate for the locals.”
“So?”
“Also, I'm in a dress at the moment, dummy.”
“Even better.”
Yeah, you lovingly slapped him for that one.
I'd say he'd convince you to go paragliding.
“If anything goes wrong, I'll be there.”
“Fine, but you're paying for my medical bills and therapy.”
He grins.
“I think you'll find it fun, sweetheart.”
And you did, despite the screams along the way, that slowly shifted to the bright laughter that he all too loved so much that still echoed when you both finally landed.
“And you said, you wouldn't like it.”
“Shut up. I say you still have to pay for my initial mental experience.” You bumped shoulders jokingly.
“Worth it.”
All's well, ends well. Now, you got some postcards with your favorite blue hedgehog that you slipped inside books as bookmarks.
As remembrance.
⊹₊˚‧︵‿₊୨ᰔ୧₊‿︵‧˚₊⊹⊹₊˚‧︵‿₊୨ᰔ୧₊‿︵‧˚₊⊹
🍓 𝙼𝙰𝚁𝙸𝙾 🍓
A trip to his home country, Italy? What about it?
He's done a lot of work over the years and he does deserve some time off, so why not with you?
When he mentions it to Sonic, with a few worries, all he got was a slap on the back.
“Worrying isn't going to help, pops! Why not go and ask?”
Of course you'd want to go on a vacation with him, you'd be a fool to say no.
Hopped on a plane.
Pretty sure he snored halfway there.
And then, you're in Italy.
When in Rome, do as the Romans do.
“Do not order pineapple pizza.”
“But—”
“That is a disaster. That belongs in fruit salad, not pizza.”
“Agree to disagree, tomato is a fruit.”
“I thought you knew you better.”
There were onlookers. From a distance, they might've thought that it was a couple’s quarrel, but in reality, it was just an ongoing funny feud you had between the both of you about pizza toppings with a waiter shaking his head nearby at the absurdity of it all.
“Couples…” He muttered.
Despite the argument, you both had a great time walking around Rome. You got to visit the Colosseum, wander through the Pantheon.
All to which he got to be able to explain the structure behind it and its history to which you listened with great interest.
You even got to toss a coin at a fountain with him right beside you.
“What'd you wish for?”
“If I say it, don't you think it won't come true?”
“Well, I wish you would choose a different topping than pineapple.”
“Ok, rude, and it's the best topping.”
“We are not having this argument again.”
All in all, you both enjoyed travelling, even as you got lost in the alleys and made strange unexpected turns.
“You think our waiter was disturbed when I asked if pineapple was available?”
You questioned with a smile as you leaned against him with him pressing a kiss against the corners of your lips. You were now at home on the sofa looking at the postcard you held up.
“I think he was more annoyed that you were scaring the customers.”
⊹₊˚‧︵‿₊୨ᰔ୧₊‿︵‧˚₊⊹⊹₊˚‧︵‿₊୨ᰔ୧₊‿︵‧˚₊⊹
🍓 𝙿𝙾𝙼𝙽𝙸🍓
Strangely enough, Chicago.
Hear me out please. Possibly delirious but I was thinking theater wise while it being a chiller place compared to the others.
She has to admit she was nervous bringing you along since this was her first trip with you.
To be fair you made a suggestion, not expecting her to go along with it almost immediately.
She looked nervous, well from how she was holding your hand tightly during the flight even if she was putting on a show that she was calm.
A week later, you're here in the city. The city filled with performing arts and the birthplace of electric blues and jazz.
She was still anxious once you got there and checked into a place as she never was able to discuss an itinerary with you.
However, she let's go and chuckles when you pulled her along to some deep baked Chicago pizza you couldn't wait to try with such a giddy smile that she forgets all about it.
It was delicious.
What’s art without a little improvisation?
Honestly, it was fun visiting the museum. But the cherry on top, was that she managed to get tickets to a Broadway show in theater.
You both were still humming show tunes even when the trip came to an end.
“For you.”
She hands you a card as you both settle on your seats as the plane calls for final boarding.
When you flipped it over and saw that it was a postcard from your trip, you couldn't help but smile now that you see a memory that isn't only embedded in you mind but now also preserved in ink and paper.
“Thank you.”
An old woman mutters incoherent noises a few seats next to you as you give her a short kiss.
₊˚⊹♡ 𝙎𝙔𝙉𝙊𝙋𝙎𝙄𝙎 : Ah...ToonTown, a place filled with wonders and ink. Lots of ink. Not to mention, it's a "fun" town filled with wacky characters and toons who seem to have "eccentric" personalities? They're great and all but why are you attracting this attention of these strange characters when you're just a bakery owner who's just trying to make a living...?
₊˚⊹♡ 𝚆𝙾𝚁𝙳 𝙲𝙾𝚄𝙽𝚃 : 4.1k words
₊˚⊹♡ 𝚆𝙰𝚁𝙽𝙸𝙽𝙶 — Birds. But seriously, flashbacks, family themes, exhaustion, and implications to depression.
⋆.𐙚 ̊— MOTM! INKLESS! x FemaleBaker!Reader
₊˚⊹ ᰔ YOUR POV.
“If you shits want pieces of bread, then you all need to learn how to “SHARE”. Add that to your vocabulary for once.” You whisper-yelled.
You can practically hear them squawking with defiance.
If you wonder what you did after an early out on restocking, which was completed by the hands and distinguished muscles of someone else that doesn't need any more emphasis, you decided to make some strawberry cheesecake chunk cookies and some carrot muffins.
A whole batch of them.
You decided since you’re already out, perhaps a small trip to the park would do you some good before getting ready for some late-night baking experiments to some tunes. Just to get in the mood.
“Some days it doesn't have to all be about baking. Sometimes, all you need is some sunshine, bread, and a whole bunch of ducks bothering the hell out of you.”
Thanks, baking was easy, the company right now wasn’t.
“Lemon, you are a whole circle, you cannot aim to be an oval, so quit trying to pick the cherries from the containers!” You yelled as you took out a batch of cookies from the oven, freshly baked to perfection. “Mango! Quit enabling him!”
You then turn to the green bird who was able to open one of the upper cabinets in the kitchen and was taking a look inside.
“Oh my fucking— GUACAMOLE! You cannot keep looking around and leaving things open just to find bird food! Remember your sugar fiasco?”
That’s Guacamole’s quirk, another of the Three Great Bird Mysteries. You never know how he’s able to open any door or drawer. It would’ve been cute if it wasn’t for the fact that he leaves them open.
Last time that happened, sugar was spilled. Ants were high up with all the sugar. It took you 2 weeks to clean up the mess and the pests along the way. From that time on, you now had to check every door, cabinet, drawer, if it was open before going to bed so it wouldn’t happen again.
‘They’re all the definition of greed…’ You thought, popping a vein when they all lined up onto the top of your head.
So if you are even able to relax with your three little dipshits, it would be just a lovely miracle. With more struggle than it should’ve been necessary due to your unwelcomed chickens, you were able to finish baking and toss your little goodies into your cupcake tote bag. You checked everything before you left and proceeded to head to the convenience store right across your bakery to buy a pack of sliced bread to feed the ducks.
Which brings you to your current state.
“Mommy! Isn’t that the lady who talks to birds?”
You practically recoiled from that familiar voice.
“Sweetheart, what have I told you about talking about people you don’t know behind their backs….”
‘Aren’t you doing the same thing…’ You wailed, but only internally.
If you’re trying to spare someone’s feelings by trying to keep it quiet at least be better at it.
“But, she’s pretty…”
“Shh!”
You watch as the little boy and his mother go into another aisle as you were left there, feeling like mentally banging your head onto one of the shelves as if it were a lobotomy. Mango chirps, followed by Lemon and Guacamole as if in harmony, like they were trying to check on you.
Or make fun of you. Whichever it was doesn’t help your case whatsoever.
“That will be $6.45, Miss.”
“...Just take my money. Keep the change.”
You already felt defeated and you haven't even made it to the park yet.
You thought parks were supposed to be relaxing. At least from what you remember when you were younger. The noon breeze is nice. You can hear the sound of kids playing over at the playground. And you were luckily seated at one of the benches under the tree shade near the lake. It was peaceful in a way. In fact, one of the signs over here says “Please enjoy the peaceful scenery”.
But right now it felt more like a suggestion than an actual enjoyment.
Why can’t you believe it you ask?
“Small bits at a time now. The ducks can’t eat a whole loaf.”
“You say that….” You quietly murmured to yourself as you saw another duck waddle towards you, waiting expectantly. After one toss of a piece of bread, one after another, ducks paddled in the lake gathering at the water’s edge to where you were sitting. Before you know it, a few ducks waddled out of the water to hurry over for the food.
With loud quacks coming from around you, you scattered some bits and pieces of white sliced bread around.
“But with this crowd, somehow I doubt it.” You let a finger scratch your head before continuing to feed. “I remember it being relaxing, not some kind of competition to see who’ll get the biggest gut at the end of it…”
The quacks from oncoming ducks from the shoreline sound as if they disagreed as well.
“Hang on, loves, patience is a virtue.” You chuckled nervously before pausing for a short moment.
“Something these three idiots of mine should learn. I know these are fatsos.” Your eyes glanced to the side to see the three birdbrains also happily feasting on bread next to you. You see Mango swallow what you’d think was a big piece for a bird making you sigh and shake your head with disbelief.
And she was the smallest among the three.
“Mango….” You blink as you see one of the ducks bold enough to approach the colorful birds, nearest to Mango among all of them. You can see Mango tilt her head and just ominously stare at another species of bird, ready to do what she needed to do.
Territorial over convenience store bread.
“Don’t you dare even fucking try or you won’t get any more bread.” You hissed, narrowing your eyes at the orange bird as you handed another piece of bread to a nearby duck. “He’s a fellow bird like you, just a different species.”
How would you even know it was a he? Not sure, intuition.
You then hear a distant sigh causing you to flinch. You looked up to see a fellow toon sitting at another bench right next to you at the far end. You would’ve shrieked and yelled in public if it wasn’t for the fact you were trying your best not to just dig a hole and shove yourself in with complete embarrassment.
‘Oh my Celestials, how much has he heard…’ You begin to sweat as you allow your expression to put on a polished smile as you tear more pieces of bread for the bombardment of quacks. ‘Just pretend, business smile…’
‘Oh my Celestials, if he was here the whole time, then he heard me shitting on the birds. FUCK. I’m already known as the crazy bird lady in the apartment building. I don’t need it spreading to the whole town. I’m gonna be known as a bird controlling witch and be burnt at the stake!’
And you were internally panicking.
You took a small glimpse of the man while you continued feeding the ducks. He was a bunny toon in the shades of black and white. He looked to be older than you based on what you can see. He looked to be quite scruffy and was run over by a train to put it simply. He had a small stubble on his chin and his fur looked as if it wasn’t combed thoroughly enough. The tie around his neck was loosened and slightly askew and his white shirt was a bit wrinkled even if it was supposed to be hidden by his blazer.
You’d understand if it was at least nighttime and it was about time for everyone to go home.
But it was 12:45pm in the afternoon.
‘If she were here, she’d tear him a new one…’ You sighed as you quickly shifted your eyes away.
Despite all that, you couldn't fault him somehow.
He looked tired.
Not just the kind of tired after a long day at work, but the kind where they simply sit there and stare off into space with a look unfocused, looking as though they were absolutely done.
Defeated.
Something you know all too well.
But why was it that even with your head turned away you felt like you heard a faint rumble from a distance even with the loud quacks?
As you pulled out another piece of bread from the bag in which was almost now empty, you swore you heard someone’s stomach grumbling and there was no mistaking it or thinking you were hearing things after the third gurgle. However, just as you turned your head to face the only other toon near you and was seated at the next bench, your eyes immediately locked in at the spot of orange right next to the bunny toon. Funny enough, his hat was also right beside him.
With a little plop, Mango plops a bit of bread she had in her beak on top of the fedora to which the man blink at.
“...Huh.” You mumbled quietly as your eyes slightly widened from the scene before you.
Was it from confusion? You couldn’t tell from his neutral expression but you can immediately feel the panic rising up within you.
‘Mango, what the fuck are you doing?!’ You cried in anguish inside your head, wanting to pull your hair out. ‘I’m already worried enough whether or not he heard me swearing at you. He clearly looks like he wants to be alone. Read the room!’
Oh, for Celestials’ sake, you swear you were going to read the dictionary slowly in front of them when you get home about the definition of space before just giving up and chucking them into the pan.
Seasoned with salt and pepper and some paprika mayhaps. Small but three pieces will surely do.
“Mango, come here…” You called out gently, hiding the blaze behind your eyes as you wore a practiced smile. You began apologizing as you reached over to gently take the orange bird, slightly squeezing a bit for her to understand the trouble she was in. “I’m sorry if she’s causing you any trouble, she does whatever she likes, has a bit of a fiery side to her."
He stares at you for what felt like a minute making you sweat from his piercing stare before he shook his head and murmured. “It’s fine…”
You blinked, feeling a bit awkward as you turned back to face the ducks. But after a few seconds, you took a deep breath and held out a piece of bread.
“Would you also like to feed the ducks…?”
This is way too random.
You were prepared for a rejection or a yell, or even a flat-out simple “no.”
But surprisingly enough, he didn’t. He simply looked at you and then the bread before taking it. A few minutes later, a few ducks waddled over to him as well. And he was handing off pieces to them as they let out large quacks. He was still intimidating for the most part to say the very least. You were at least expecting a grouchy lecture that this was his down time and he just wanted somewhere to get away and relax from what you’d assume was corporate business hell based on his attire.
But he didn’t.
You suppose he doesn’t look as intimidating when feeding a bunch of cute ducks.
At least a little bit, though the scene does seem a bit strange.
“...You should give them smaller pieces.” You commented thoughtlessly, glancing at him as you rustled through the almost-empty bag of bread. There were only a couple of pieces left. “They don’t exactly have mouths you know…”
“...Hmm.”
‘Shit, maybe I shouldn’t have said anything…’ You closed your eyes for a short moment, almost feeling your smile straining in nervousness. ‘He doesn’t need instructions…’
You then hear some quacks that caught your attention and look to your side to see a duck spreading its wings, trying to appear larger with another duck trying to do the same with some deafening quacks.
What do you know, another dispute over convenience store bread.
“Hey, now stop that. No need for the squabble. There’s more over here, see?” You raised a brow with a small grin as you held out a piece of bread to which one of them came toward you. “Problem solved.”
Despite your cool composure though, you couldn’t help but sweat once more at the feeling of being stared at behind your head. You tried to pay no mind however, dusting your hands off from the crumbs before deciding on pulling out the cupcake tote you placed under the bench. Your hands rustled through the bag for a bit before you pulled out two containers.
The strawberry chunk cookies and carrot muffins.
And they were still warm too.
At that moment, you heard another belly rumble. And that makes it the fourth.
‘Alright, I can’t exactly ignore this…’
You sweatdrop to yourself before popping open the container filled with the carrot muffins and holding it out to him. Guilty conscience with sprinkles of extended awkwardness was going to eat you alive if you did not at least offer this man something to eat.
The bunny toon blinks when he sees the container gently shoved in front of his face.
“Not to disturb your peace or anything Mister, but you sound like you need this more than I do.” You gently eased your lips to a small smile. “Besides, I made too much for me anyways…”
You see him raise a brow for a short moment as if in contemplation but before your brain can even process and send signals to start bawling in disgrace, he takes one of the muffins and simply looks in front of him once more, staring off into the distance.
“...Thank you.” You heard him mutter quietly between bites.
Perhaps, you’ve judged him too harshly.
And based on appearances too. You knew better.
‘Don’t judge a book by its cover.’ You internally winced to yourself, feeling a bit bad of what you initially thought of him. ‘My bad, Mister…’
Some of the ducks you both fed earlier waded back into the lake water, quacking for what you assumed was happily. At least, that’s what you’d like to hope. The rest of the ducks however were still gathered around and quacking their hearts to a cacophony rather than a harmonious symphony making you sweat drop when your eyes drifted to the side to eye the now empty bag of bread.
“Sorry loves, not even crumbs now. You went through the whole bag. And these aren't suitable for your consumption.” You chuckled and gently waved your hand, a gesture for the ducks to start walking away. Although there were some who were complaining, they started waddling back to the water with some of their bills up in the air.
A bit of entitlement don't you think? However, you shrugged it off.
You've dealt with worse.
Everyday. You side glance to your three colorful friends picking crumbs off the ground and chirping.
You placed the container on top of the bench arms allowing each from both sides to balance it. Also, so that the tired-looking bunny toon was welcome to grab more if he was still hungry.
You know you were hungry.
“These are good…” You shut your eyes, letting yourself savor the soft chewiness of the muffin. The sweetness lingered pleasantly on your tongue.
“Perhaps I should've left it in the oven a little longer, though…” You murmured softly after a moment, opening your eyes. You thoughtfully examined the baked goods, turning the muffin over in your hand. “The center's came out a bit softer than I intended.”
The quiet sounds of chewing made you flinch and snap out of your trance as you turned to the side to see the man still chewing and working his way through the muffin. You still couldn't tell if his expression enjoyed it or not. For a brief moment, you observed, waiting for a sign of disappointment before shaking yourself out of it and continued eating.
Perhaps he was like Shadow. You thought, remembering your interaction when he asked for raspberry tarts on the go.
‘Which reminds me, I wonder if he's enjoying them or not.’ You pondered, thinking back to the Defense Team. You picked up another muffin‘...Do they even know he ordered them?’
They didn't look exactly close. In fact he looked more annoyed than anything with the blue hedgehog.
‘Oh well…’ You mentally shrugged and took another bite. ‘Not my problem….’
‘Not everyone will like what you bake. Still would be sad though…’ You sulked in silence. ‘Need to enjoy this day while I still can…’
You heard a small cheep next to you and you turn to look down to see Mango, hopping a little before poking at your free hand on the bench. Your brow rose in confusion for a few moments before realizing what she was actually pointing at was the watch.
More specifically, the time.
‘She’s right, what time is it….’ You peered at your watch and found out it was already 3:00pm. You probably shouldn't overstay your welcome with the toon near you. You had some chores and experimenting to do anyways. You stood up, dusting yourself down, unaware that a glance was pointed at you. You paused for a second when you picked up your tote bag.
‘I wasn't even able to go through the cookies….’ You stopped, making an on-the-spot decision. You hesitated for a second before deciding to pull it out of the bag once more, gazing at it.
“Here, Mister. You can have this.” You placed it beside the man. “I'm full from the muffins and I'd rather these not go stale. So maybe you have kids…er wait, maybe you know some people who would like these.”
‘Why’d I assume he had kids…’ You mentally shed a tear from your thoughtless words. ‘I’m not some kind of investigator or anything. I mean he does look like a family man, but that's still assuming…’
“I mean that is if you don't want them.” You stood back up, whistling to your birds to which they responded by landing on your shoulder instead of your head this time, thankfully.
“Take care, Mister.” You muttered before walking off.
Now if only you heard the faint sound of the container opening. But by the time that was the case you were already off in the distance.
₊˚⊹ ᰔ CUPHEAD'S POV — EARLIER THAT MORNING.
I knew from the faint sound of the back door from the kitchen slammed open, I knew I was dead meat.
Decided to test my luck anyway.
Whistling under my breath, I wiped down the bar counter as if I didn't have a single care in the world. Even when the kitchen door flew open right beside the bar, I kept my cool.
Or at least, I tried to.
I'd be lying if I said I couldn't feel sweat gathering on my porcelain.
I let my eyes drift to the side to see my twin dressed in Ink n’ Paint’s uniform. And can I say? He looks quite dapper, like he was dressed to the stars.
“Hey Mugs~” I let out a prolonged "hey” as I raised my hand to cheerfully wave at him. However the second he locked eyes with mine, I flinched a little.
He did not look happy.
At all.
He’s looking as if he wanted to wring my handle.
"What's up, Mugsy?" I plastered a grin onto my face as he stalked toward me. "Can I just say, you're looking sharp today. Shiny, even. New oil? You really should let me borrow some—"
Then he grabbed my shirt collar.
I broke into a sweat when I spotted the vein twitching near his eye.
"What's up?" he repeated through clenched teeth, yanking me closer until I was staring directly into his murderous glare. "What the hell did you do yesterday?"
"Yesterday?" I shrugged and blinked innocently. "You sent me to the marketplace to buy cherries for the cocktails."
“And?”
“And I bought cherries…” I answered, my eyes unknowingly shifting away to the side.
“Cut the bullshit, Cuphead.” Mugman’s eye twitched as he shook me. “You know what I’m looking for. If my memory serves me right, I remember you coming back yesterday looking worse than you usually do just dropping the bag here and saying it was nothing. Seems to be you’ve been something more than what I’d considered to be nothing.”
I whistled.
“...I’m guessing a little birdie might have told you?” I chuckled nervously, raising my hands in surrender.
That was probably the wrong thing to say.
“Tall, long brown coat, with a red straw sticking out of their head.” He lets me go for a short moment letting me breathe with relief. “More than a birdie.”
“Said they looked like me.”
On second thought, I see Mugman rolling up one sleeve and flexing an arm as if preparing for work.
Or murder. Same thing.
“Damn that Birdie.” I muttered to myself, taking a step back as I began to sweat.
All of a sudden my fight or flight response kicks in, and vivid memories of cradling the dent a while back rises back up. Not even a second later, I was jumping over the bar counter with my brother following right after me.
“Not for long though!”
“HANG ON MUGS! MY FACE JUST FINALLY LOOKS GOOD AS NEW FROM THE DENT!”
From another area, a server hums, simply glancing at the scene for a short minute, before turning back to what she was doing. But not before calling out to them. “Try not to hurt him too much, Mugman! His face brings customers you know!”
“AIN’T HELPING OVER HERE BETTY!”
“Don’t encourage the boys, Betty…”
₊˚⊹ ᰔ YOUR POV — 8:15PM .
Well, bless you.
You’ve been sneezing at least every 10 minutes until you got home. Were you getting sick? Hopefully, that isn’t the case cause there was still a lot of baking to be done. Moreover, it’s kind of affecting you while you were baking because you were sneezing while pouring flour into the mixer, allowing it to mix with a gust of wind and land on Guacamole like snowflakes.
Despite how much you hate the birds, you weren’t really aiming to do that.
“What has been going on today…” You grumbled while watching Guacamole ruffle his feathers to shake the white flour out. “I don’t feel feverish or anything…”
A flurry of yellow feathers caught your eyes and with that you felt Lemon land on the top of your head. A second later he was chirping as if he was checking on you.
“I’m fine, Lemon.” You muttered as you checked the batter before switching it off. You then see Mango land on your left shoulder. “Must be the weather, that's all.”
“What do you say to some snugly blankets by the heater with some hot cocoa for me, and trail mix and water for you guys in around maybe an hour?”
“I’ll take that as a yes. I just need to—” A sharp beep suddenly echoed from your home fax machine making you freeze for a second.
Chorus chirps sounded in the air coming from your three idiots making you shake your head with the corners of your lips lifting upwards.
With that, the room fell silent as you slowly walked to the fax machine a bit absentmindedly with a small yawn.
“I already received some custom requests when I got home.” You muttered to yourself, an uneasy feeling up to you. Something that felt familiar. “It’s too late at this hour. Don’t tell me?”
DO NOT IGNORE ME, MISSY. I HAVE NOT HEARD FROM YOU. WHEN ARE YOU COMING HOME?
Home. Home. Home.
What was home?
Because that hell surely wasn’t by ordinary standards.
Your eyes dulled at that singular word as the fax machine stopped its buzzing. It’s been how many days and she’s still sending you messages as if it was nothing. However, you tried to pay it no mind, dropping them in the paper shredder and throwing it in the garbage bag.
Away from you.
You felt your breath shake as you took the paper with trembling hands. Without much of a thought, you tore it to pieces, fragments just scattering on the floor with the sounds of ripping startling the birds into chirping.
“Home?” You looked at your hand and held your wrist as if it was going to stop the shaking. “Yeah, right…”
gracieabrams
turnnoffyourmind
prguitarman
amandla
dailybridgerton
blakekathryn
tangentwithtanner
vaporwave
s-u-f-j-a-n-s-t-e-v-e-n-s
baratheonpilled
