Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

(Sans)
Sans didn't wake until the early morning hours. It was odd for him to be up early, but considering how early he fell asleep, it was understandable, even for his tired mind. His dreams had been a mess of ideas and he didn't understand most of it by the time he had awoken. Which, was better then waking up scared or worse. He was still so tired, and sore. But he was even more warm and cozy. He sighed contently and snuggled in tighter to the source of heat next and under him. He could stay like this forever. The smell of baked goods filled his sense of smell as he started to sigh in contentment. He wrapped his arms around the warmth, hanging onto it more than happily. Though, that did cause his mind to start waking up. Since when did he have something like this in his bed? Was he in bed? This didn't feel like or smell like his room.

With a sleepy yawn he forced his mind further awake until his sockets started to open and focus. He blinked, unsure if he was seeing things right. Then questioning if he was dreaming. His magic colored his face as he started to understand just how intimately he was clinging to and cuddling with Tori. And just how she was holding him. He couldn't help but wonder why he was here and not in his room, or why she was here and not in the guest room. Had they fallen asleep down here and Papyrus covered them up like this? That could be it... but that didn't explain why there were pillows and where the things from upstairs came from. Or why there is a bottom sheet...

His mind quickly ran through the past, figuring out what had led to this event. So many moments came to mind. His smile went tight with stress and he worried about what was going to happen between them. He feared waking her, but he felt it would be best to pull away a bit, at least to the point he wasn't clinging to her like that. He slowly moved his hands back towards himself and hoped not to wake her. He knew from the times they fell asleep on the couch that she was a light sleeper.

(Toriel)
Toriel had been a light sleeper for over a century, ever since she had her son. Motherly instinct drove it perhaps, as she had had to sleep with one ear perked and at the ready back then, listening for the infant boss monster's cries and being ready to spring out of slumber and out of bed to be able to attend to her child.

That same sensitivity persisted during her endless decades alone in the Ruins, convinced every little sound she heard was a sign that another human child had fallen. The amount of times she'd staggered back and forth from her bedroom to the site of Chara's resting place, after some faint noise stirred her from sleep, only to find nothing... were too numerable to count.

It was that same sensitivity that had her begin to stir at the slight movement on the couch. Her sleep addled mind only perceived that her source of comfort, and the object of her protection was pulling away from her bit by bit, maybe even falling off of the couch. So without the guidance of any rational thought, she wrapped her arms more firmly around the skeleton beside her, and held him close, like how a child might hug a teddy bear.

She then rested her chin contently on Sans' skull, letting out something of a soft, sleepy purr as she settled back again, mind rapidly willing her to return to the peaceful sleep she'd been enjoying, now that she was sure her dear skeleton was safe and comfortable again. To say she was blissfully unaware of the reality of the situation was putting it lightly.

(Sans)
Just when he thought he might have been successful, Tori pulled him even closer to her. Sans didn't know what to do or think now. He had been fully enveloped in Toriel's arms and her head was now resting on his skull. Not that he didn't enjoy this, because he totally did... but it startled him. The feel of her soft fur on his skull was so nice, and he struggled with this want to nestle his face into her neck. His mind wrestled with the idea of what just happened.

Was this alright? Was Tori really okay with this or was she just cuddling with him because he was here and she was fast asleep? He had heard the joke of people's minds freezing or "blue screening" like a computer before. He didn't think he would relate to that before now, but in this moment he did.

No matter how hard he tried, he couldn't fully process what was going on and if it was real or not. Let alone what he was supposed to do. So, he just stayed ridgid as he struggled to put some order to his thoughts. Should he hug her back? Should he go back to sleep? Should he wake her up? Should he just wait? He had no idea, none at all. All he he knew is what he wanted to do... and in the end, that won out. Closing his sockets tight he wrapped his arms around her again, holding on tight. He still didn't know if this was the right choice, but it is what he went with.

(Toriel)
In the haze of her sleepiness, before it fully claimed her for a second time, she felt a warm feeling of joy and love well up in her soul as Sans returned her hug, wrapping his arms tight around her again. It felt nice... so nice. And in that space between sleep and wakefulness she dared to imagine it was something that could last.

She purred softly again, lightly brushing her cheek against the top of his skull and giving him another little squeeze. Then she drifted off again for a short while, not quite ever fully slipping back into the deep sleep she'd originally been in, but getting some more blessed rest snuggled up with the skeleton before the ever growing sunlight from the windows truly began to rouse her.

This time awareness came quicker with it, and she blinked open one scarlet eye, the other still shut against the offending light. Instinct still drove her to immediately check on the skeleton in her arms, feeling her face flush a bit and her breath catch momentarily as she noticed how she and Sans were holding on to one another. Clearly her terribly selfish loneliness had driven her to hold him tight in her sleep, and she hoped that she had never once squeezed him too tight... If he had been awake and aware, he'd surely have pushed her away by now, given how self-serving she was acting.

She knew deep down that he likely was only clinging back to her this way because he was fast asleep... but it was still... nice. Hopefully it wasn't something he'd done due to any nightmares... She waited a few moments for the initial shock to pass, keeping as still as she could manage. Then she shifted just a bit to a more more upright sitting position, still holding him close all the while and reclining enough to keep his sleeping position comfortable.

As she continued to rest her chin on his skull, her deprecating thoughts spiraled more and more. She should let go now and go make breakfast to repay the brother's hospitality? She had no reason to continue this now that she was awake. After all, he'd clearly slept through the night just fine. It was selfish of her... so selfish... to keep holding him like this, to take advantage of his natural instinct for comfort in his sleep... and yet... she simply couldn't let go, even curled about him a little more. But it was only then that she realized his breathing was not as deep and even as she expected. And a truly unexpected thought entered her mind abruptly. Was he... awake?

(Sans)
Hearing the purr the second time his face felt warmer with magic. He didn’t like that deep, almost gravely, sound he makes when half changed. But Tori’s... it was cute, sweet, beautiful even...

He could feel it through him and he almost wished he could purr right back. Her cheek rubbing against his skull added to that desire to purr his contentment. It was just so nice. Though she did momentarily squeeze the air out of his ribcage. Was it really okay for him to be doing this? As he debated that, part of him arguing that she put him in this situation in the first place, he started to doze off.

Later, as she started to move, his mind started waking back up. Groggy, he took in what information he could. It seemed Tori was awake but she was still... holding him... There was a pause and he felt he should do something. He eased up on his hug and tried to sit back in her arms. As he spoke, his voice creaked with the sleepiness that still needed shaking off.

“heya, tori... you, uh, sleep well?”

(Toriel)
To say Toriel felt like a deer (or goat) in the headlights would be putting it mildly, his sudden question putting everything that had just happened in a brand new light. She gulped slightly, but fought to save face, not wanting him to see her shame over all her selfishness. She waited a moment for him to add to his question, denounce her behavior somehow. But he didn't. In fact, he didn't seem all that bothered at all, only pulling back enough to address her, and not shoving away like her venomous thoughts had been expecting.

For a moment, she dared to believe he might... be okay with this? For that sentiment, she only gently loosened her grip to sit up more to properly address him, keeping him in her arms slightly instead of flinching away with a flurry of apologizes. She tried to think of something to say, remember herself and the situation at hand.

"G-greetings Sans..." She rasped in reply, voice equally thick with lingering sleepiness. "I... um... Yes I, I did sleep... well..." She cursed herself silently for speaking in such a fractured manner, clearing her throat just a bit and attempting to focus again before going on. "Did you sleep alright? I... stayed here with you last night, to ensure you got through the night okay... I hope you um... do not mind."

(Sans)
Ah, that made sense. This was because of her concern for him. No surprise after what he carelessly put her through. The whole ordeal clearly shook her. It was far more believable than her having... those kind of feelings for him. Especially after all she learned yesterday. Now he needed to fix that situation so she hopefully won’t worry. He wore a smile as he winked.

“yeah, slept great. though, uh, sorry if things were a little... odd.”

He was going to say uncomfortable, but he wasn’t sure he was ready to hear her reply that his hug had made her uncomfortable. There was a confirming, though broken, sense of relief in knowing her behavior was because of her worry and concern. With luck, he could set her mind at ease today. She didn’t need to get dragged into this.

(Toriel)

To hear him call what just happened "odd" didn't sit quite right with her. And it made something click in her mind. Perhaps... just perhaps... he too had been feeling... selfish or wrong for hugging her like he had been. After all, she was sure now he was at least partially awake while doing that. Did he... really think she'd be uncomfortable with that? With how she had already been acting?

The thoughts made her feel as though she had been dropped into a whirlpool and was being whipped about. The not so unfamiliar realization came back to her then, that the two of them were far more alike than she usually considered. Just a pair of silly fools it seemed... Whatever the case may be, she couldn't have him thinking she didn't appreciate his affection towards her, even if admitting to such things still felt selfish somehow, she decided she could let a small bit of it be out in the open, just to gauge his reaction. It was risky... but her risks today had mostly paid off for both their benefit.

"I am glad to hear it, dear." She said, soft red eyes warming. "And things were not odd at all... I..." She swallowed and was unable to keep some heat from burning at her cheeks. "I appreciate getting to spend time with you like this... even with what happened to cause it... you and I have not had much time to ourselves lately, with everything going on. It was... quite nice. It definitely put my mind at ease... I have not slept so well in a very long time..."

The admittance made her blush deepen, and she thanked the stars for her fur's ability to hide it. But beyond that, a kind of warm, wistful smile came with it, as her mind briefly wandered into precious times long past. But then she grounded herself again, and prepared for his reaction, steeling herself to deal with the worst.

(Sans)
She... appreciated spending time like THAT with him? His soul fluttered in his rib cage. ‘It was quite nice.’ Those words caused his mind to stop again as his face heated up with his magic.

“heh,” was all he could muster as a reply, and it was in a giddy tone.

She... liked him hugging her. So, it wasn’t just concern. It was lo... oh, oh no. Dread suddenly poured into him and a hand covered his mouth as he struggled to keep it together. This... this was wrong. He didn’t mean to lead her into a relationship with himself. What kind of life is that? He tried imagine Toriel being happy with... that thing he turns into. But that didn’t look happy in his mind. Oh, gosh, he loved her so much. He looked in her eyes, finding such beauty there.

“t-tori...” he stuttered, fighting through his panic, “i-i really lo-... like you b-but i... i said i w-wouldn’t push you away, b-but...”

Come on, Sans. Could you please form one sentence, just one? His added frustration was not helping him at all.

(Toriel)
His reaction was far more extreme than she expected, though perhaps if her own nagging doubts had not been as loud as they had been, she would have known such hints towards her feelings for him would have him behaving this way. Still, his immediate blush and giddy little chuckle made her soul swell with emotion, relieved and overjoyed to see no rejection in his gaze. But then he sort of... curled in on himself with a much darker look. A look she recognized from experience as self-hatred.

Despite it though, he started stuttering up a storm, likely not helped by any lingering drowsiness. But within his mostly intelligible, fragmented words she heard him almost say... no it couldn't be... could it? It couldn't be that easy... surely... but... Her soul pulsed wildly in her chest, but she willed herself to be calm, trying to get her mind to catch up with what was happening. Whatever it was Sans wanted to say, he couldn't get the words out like this, flustered to the point of incoherency. So gently, she reached over and took his hands in her own, giving them a light squeeze to hopefully stop or at least slow his frantic words.

"Sans, breathe, okay?" She soothed, unable to keep from smiling as she did. "Whatever you want to say, I will listen, just take a deep breath and relax first. I am not going anywhere."

(Sans)
He was torn between leaning into her or pulling away. And he really wanted to free himself and shortcut away. Run away to somewhere the ones he holds dear aren’t burdened or hurt by him. A place where he can just... give up. And yet... she was hugging him... of her own free will, too. She wasn’t like Papyrus, unfortunately born/created into his family and thus duty bound to care and love him in return for his weak attempts to do the same. She’s someone outside of that who could have declared him not worth her time.

Hearing her advice he focused on just taking in and out air. The sensation calmed him slightly, enough for him to weakly try again.

“i-,” his voice cut short as inside he yelled at himself: ‘nonono, you’re not saying that.’

He took another breath, this one shaky.

“y-your my c-closest friend, and, u-uh, n-not because i-i’m sitting here, like this.” He offered a weak smile with his joke. Needing to say more he continued. “a-and i... i-i r-really, uh, liked the, uh, hug this m-morning. but i w-want... y-you shouldn’t...”

He took his hands back because he had to. Balling his hands into fists he placed them over his closed eye sockets as he fought to make the world around him just disappear. Tori is just too... everything good in his life... she deserves so much better.

“don’t be s-stuck here... because of me.”

(Toriel)
His first little joke had made her smile brighten, just a bit, but then that smile withered and died on her face as the poor skeleton went on, a growing darkness and despair in his eyelights. Then her soul gave a sharp twist of pain within her as he wrenched his hands away to cover his face. The words that escaped him then were a touch vague, but their implication did strike true, and it hurt...

Oh stars above, why did her beloved have to despise himself so much? Why must his self hatred always snuff out any light and happiness that entered his life? Like before though, she wouldn't have it. She couldn't sit idly by and watch as Sans did this to himself. She let his statement hang for a moment, then leaned over to envelop him in a hug once more, one that did not ask for him to return it, only accept it.

"Sans." She spoke his name with purposeful weight, demanding his attention. "Listen to me, okay?"

Then she drew in a deep breath, and let it out slowly. She knew she was about to go into one of her lengthy diatribes, but she also knew that these were all words her dear skeleton needed to hear.

"I am not ‘stuck’ here by any stretch of the imagination. I am here by your side by my own choice, and will continue to remain by your side by my own choice. Everything I do or say for your benefit is my own choice. Not from anything you have done to ‘trap’ me. I insist you banish the thought at once."

She paused, giving the words time to sink in before continuing.

"None of this is your fault Sans, you did not choose to suffer this way, you did not choose to have to become some other creature whose mind is not your own. For you to despise yourself for this, or to think yourself unworthy of being loved because of it, is simply foolishness, and nothing more. It is like I said before, If the situations were reversed, I know for a fact you would not abandon me and deem more unworthy of affection and companionship, or even worse... consider me a burden. If you would not extend such cruelty to me, I implore you not to extend such cruelty to yourself either. I know that is difficult, I struggle with such self-loathing myself for a variety of reasons, I often feel unworthy of the people who choose to care for me, despite my sins. But it is the truth Sans, no matter our inner struggles, our struggles and flaws do not make us pariahs undeserving of love. This was Not. Your. Fault."

With that, she felt confident enough to get out the last part, knowing that it had to be said, and had to be blunt, for Sans’s sake.

"I love you Sans, whatever you wish that to mean. I am not asking anything of you, I just want you to know that. You are so very loved dear, by so many, including me. And you deserve to be loved, no matter what the voices in your head tell you to the contrary. Please remember that.”

She ended her lengthy speech by giving him another squeeze, waiting to hear his response and preparing herself to debate him further if necessary.

(Sans)
Sans didn't know what to expect. Tori wasn't the type to push him away, but set him aside... yes. But when she hugged him again he felt himself go ridged again. She wasn’t listening... He didn't explain it right and now she wasn't listening. He was sure of it. He tried to think of what else to say to make her understand when she started to speak. She asked him to listen. He couldn’t reject such a request and did so. After the first part, during that pause, he lowered his hands, thinking.

She wanted to be here. That small voice that tried pushing that thought before strengthened a little. It was still dwarfed by the self deprecation that wanted to tear him apart, but hearing those words and thinking on it, did cause that self hate to pause. She did listen... she just... wants to be here. That didn't make sense to him... He did try pushing that confusion away so he could just accept that. That she... wanted to be here. He was happy she paused before continuing, because the next part was just so much. She was right... he didn't choose this... this wasn't anyone's choice.... It just was.

But it was more than this thing he felt unworthy of her love, she just didn't know... Still, how much of that was his fault? How much of it was something she would say he wasn't to blame for? Had she come to him and bearing the scars that he had, he never would have faulted her for them. He took in a shuddering breath, understanding her reasoning. As much as he didn't want to apply it to himself. He remembered similar thoughts like this from the day before... amid all of that pain. He had successfully kept himself from crying though. The last thing he needed to do was make things awkward by turning into a sobbing mess.

But that's when Tori dropped the phrase that he was so desperately trying to avoid saying. 'I love you.' He hated how much those words made him start to tear up. Fear and self doubt about how she felt lifted off of him. He didn't know how he wished that to mean as he was too torn up to figure out if he wanted her to love him the way he loved her, or just love him a close friend. But hearing them still, eased some of the ache. He wanted to refute the rest of what she said, argue it. But it required information she didn't have, she didn't need to hear. Information that he wished he didn't even have. But even then, she'd most likely tell him, he wasn't at fault. Had she, or anyone else came to him, talking about timelines and he believed them, he would have asked why they bothered at all. It was a lost cause. Hopeless. Finally, he leaned into her hug, accepting the fact that she loved him.

He fought with his vocal magic, forcing out the words before he could seal them away.

“i love you too.”

He, sighed, annoyed at the tears seeping from his sockets, but unable to do anything about them.

(Toriel)
Even given the context of what was being discussed, her soul still leapt inside her to hear him return her words. It was not the ideal way she'd liked to finally hear them, but she would happily take it, especially since they seemed to signal his acceptance of her own words. Not full agreement of them, not yet, maybe not for a long time, but acceptance at least.

She did not let her happiness grow too out of hand though, knowing that nothing was fully certain yet. Instead, she held him a little tighter as he leaned back into her hug. Then she began to lightly rub his back, subconsciously starting to rock them both slightly as well. There was little she could say in response to that, but she knew she needed to reply with something.

"I am so happy to hear that dear." She murmured. "Thank you Sans, thank you for caring for me. For coming to my door back then to keep a lonely old soul company, for taking time to make me laugh and smile when I was at my lowest and even more now. You certainly did not have to have compassion for a silly old lady who worries too much, but you have, and my life has been so much better for it. You have helped me feel so much better and be so much happier despite the pains of my past. I am blessed to have you in my life, and will never not want you in it. Do not ever fear otherwise."

She trailed off, hoping the words would give him further assurance. She could feel his tears falling against where his face was pressed against her, and it brought a twist of guilt to her soul. She hated that she had made him cry, but in this case, she knew he really needed it. In fact, Sans would probably feel a lot better if he could just let it out, crying far more than just a few tears that managed to break through. She doubted though, that he would ever let himself do that if he could help it.

Her poor, dear skeleton kept such a tight leash on his emotions, be them positive or negative. The most she could do now for him though was hold him until the tears stopped, hopefully communicating that she was fine with it, and would continue to be fine if he broke any further. "You are going to be okay Sans. I promise that, so long as I live, I will be here for you, in whatever way you wish me to be. I am afraid it is actually you that is stuck with me, dear."

(Sans)
Sans enjoyed the feel of the hug tightening that slight bit followed by the rubbing of his back. The rocking, again, caused old memories to stir which didn't help with his weeping sockets. He used his sleeve to wipe at his eye sockets, trying to dry them so he doesn't soak Tori while he leaned against her like this. They just didn't seem to want to stop, which was annoying to him. He'd cried on her enough yesterday when he tearfully changed back. But there were so many emotions, thoughts and memories pushed down, that the little relief he got seemed to remove some of the weight holding all that sadness down and causing it to want to spill out.

Though, as much as he wanted to stop, Toriel seemed... alright with his tears. Her kind words helped put him more at ease.

"heh, thanks tori." He then snorted slightly before adding, "if i am stuck with you, then i'm not going to be complaining..."

He then took a deep breath to calm himself before shifting a bit so he was turned more towards her. He wrapped his right arm around her, then with some hesitation, reached with his left to touch the fur on her neck. When she said that she'd never not want him in her life, fractured "memories" of times that no longer existed flashed through his mind. He remembered knocking on the doors night after night and never getting a response. It caused him to shiver as he remembered how low his already broken state had gotten then, especially if he was also missing his brother.

He tried and failed to keep his emotions in check, to keep himself from shivering like a leaf in the wind. He needed to say something, she was already comforting him, and now his state had changed for the worst for what would seem to her, for no reason.

"tori... i n-needed someone then, too. y-you were helping me j-just as much. and then you c-continued to look after me... a-and my bro. i..."

His voice locked up on him and it took a couple of deep breaths to finally croak out.

"i hated when you were not-" he stopped himself, inwardly cursing his emotional mood as it was causing him to not think before he spoke.

He took another breath, shaking his head, as one might over a casual misspeak.

"... i mean i'd hate if you were not part of my life."

(Toriel)
She kept him close as he weakly tried to get his emotions under control again, wiping at his sockets and seeming to grow more frustrated as the tears failed to stop. Eventually though, he seemed to be soothed somewhat by her words and her gentle displays of comfort and stops resisting them as much. That nasally little laugh was positively adorable, even with as feeble as it was beneath all the lingering stress in his voice. And she was greatly relieved that he still had it in him to dip into his usually jovial tone, even just a bit.

After she gave a soft rumble of a laugh in return, she blinked a bit in surprise as he wrapped an arm around her and laid the other against her neck, phalanges slipping through the fur there. It brought a light blush back to her face and she nuzzled a little closer as he did it, more comfortable now with showing her appreciation for the little shows of affection. All felt a little more at ease for a bit after that. But then she felt something seem to shift inside him, steadily bringing tension back to his small frame.

Then he was shaking again, enough to make him rattle. She worried that he may very well be edging on some sort of emotional break. She steeled herself for that possibility, part of her expecting him to began sobbing outright. But then he croaked out those words, between shaky and harsh catches of breath. He stumbled over his words too, having to correct his last statement in particular. She listened in silence as he spoke, continuing to gently rock him, consciously now, as she realized it was something that seemed to get through to him more.

She considered her answer, wanting to ensure her words would be enough to soothe as well as reassure. In the face of his increasing brokenness, she willed herself to keep as calm as possible.

"I am glad to know I was able to help you back then too, dear." She crooned, sweeping a paw down his back. "To be able to give back any amount of the hope and joy you offered me then, is such a relief." She tightened her grip on him by degrees before going on. "And you do not have to worry about that. I am not going anywhere. I promise."

She would happily repeat that sentiment as much as he needed. Once that was out of the way though, she felt she needed to say something in regards to his sudden fit of shaking, and the emotions that must be driving it. She couldn't know for sure what truly awful thoughts, feelings and memories were driving the reaction, but she could at least ensure he knew that he didn't need to fear losing his composure, or even breaking down in her presence.

"It is okay, dear. I know you are hurting. You have been hurting for a long time, have you not?" She soothed in a quieter voice, holding him a little closer to try to ease his shaking. "It is okay to cry."

(Sans)
The rocking caused some of the tension to ease out and he started to feel a little better thanks to it. But when she started to speak those horrid memories started to come back. He closed his eye sockets and buried his face into her neck as she promised not to go anywhere. He understood what she meant. But it was something she can't really promise. She has disappeared before, after all. She just didn't know it. And he didn't want to tell her that.

His right hand tightened its grip into the fabric of her clothes as if trying to make sure she doesn't disappear at this moment. He took a deep breath, trying to calm himself.

"thanks." He needed to force down those thoughts and feelings before he said or did something that would make Tori know there is something else. The changing thing is one thing. It is horrible and he hates it. But he could only hide that from those he was close to for so long. Resets though...  where was nothing physical to really prove them. They sounded crazy to anyone he could try telling. He wouldn't even believe them himself had he not... He wasn't going to put her through that... that was... well... it robbed him of most of his hope. He didn't want her to lose that too.

So even with her letting him know it was okay to let his emotions out, he snuffed them. Shoved them down and built up his front.

"i'm okay tori, really, thanks though." After having the needed time, his voice had evened out.

There was still some shakiness, but for the most part, he sounded far calmer than before. His body was still tenser than it should have been, and he tried to get it to relax next. He'd long since giving up on truly crying. What was the point? It never seemed to do anything for him.

(Toriel)
She wasn't surprised that he still shut down emotionally even after her reassurance. She was well aware that he wasn't the type to give into such things, much more likely to bottle them up until it all must burn inside him. Something like that wouldn't change with a few words. But at least he knew now that she was willing to be his shoulder to cry on, and if he ever did need it, perhaps he'd be willing to come to her.

She was surprised however at how quickly he could get himself to calm down after that. The rocking seemed to be a big part of that, and it made her wonder if it had some deeper meaning to him. Nonetheless, she was relieved when he calmed again, even if she could practically feel him forcing back up his front. Clearly whatever had caused his momentary upset was still lingering in his thoughts, but it had been successfully forced back from the darker parts of his mind from whence they came.

That idea didn't particularly sit all that well with her, especially since she knew that repression would only hurt him more in the long run, but she figured such a thing could be addressed at later time, depending on how things... progressed between them. So, she simply gave his back another rub and lightly nuzzled his cheekbone.

"Very well then, If you are sure." She replied, conceding for now.

Part of her expected him to pull away now out of embarrassment or whatever else he was feeling. But he didn't, so she was happy to keep holding him, more comfortably now that he wasn't shaking like a leaf. After a little while, she decided it was safe enough to ask something else. It was also a bit risky she supposed, but with she'd already managed to accomplish with a much bigger risk, she didn't feel too worried about asking.

"Sans... would you be willing tell me what happened to you yesterday? That caused you to... change suddenly?" She asked.

(Sans)
The rub on the back still felt so nice and he couldn't help but enjoy it. Then when she nuzzled his cheekbone he felt his magic flush in his face, but it was something he wanted to feel again. Sure, he felt embarrassed but... it's not like anyone could see, or that it made him uncomfortable. Honestly, he wouldn't have mind if she did it again. He pet her neck fur a little, feeling it between his finger bones. He just hope she enjoyed that as much as he enjoyed her signs of affection.

It was good to have a moment longer to relax more. The tension eased out of his body, as he continued to build back up his usual wall. With all of that sealed away, he felt a mild sense of that apathy that had haunted him for a long time. But not all of it. Tori had broken part of his defense. At least to her, and most likely Papyrus, he will have trouble holding back like he used to. Still, it felt safe having a barrier.

When she said his name, he heard something in her voice. It reminded him of the few times now she has asked him big questions, and he started to prepare himself now. Sure enough, that was nothing he was going to be able to answer easily.

"i, uh..." He paused, feeling a wave a embarrassment start to try forcing its way up. But he kept it behind the wall as he continued, "may sound silly, but i, uh, figured i had time for a nap and then had a nightmare that startle me enough."

He figured Papyrus must have said something about this. That, or, she figured there had to be some sort of cause. Either way, he didn't need to lie about that.

(Toriel)
She was happy to see his reaction to her nuzzling him, and even more happy when he ran his phalanges through the fur on her neck. It made the urge to purr rise up in her throat, but she didn't know how Sans would react to that, and she still, admittedly, found it quite embarrassing when she let one slip. She just settled for a content sort of hum in her throat and lightly butted her head a bit against his skull in an instinctual show of affection for her kind. His response to her question later on had her humming too, this time in thought at having her suspicions from the night before confirmed.

She was both relieved and concerned by that answer. Relieved that she was starting to understand and read him better enough to guess the problem, and that he hadn't been subjected to something far worse. But concerned because a nightmare wasn't something she could truly fix or prevent from happening again. It was too intangible and unpredictable to be stopped, and that made her feel uneasy and vaguely useless. The most she could really do was... offer her sympathy and understanding and hope that the little things she did would stave off his darker thoughts enough that his sleep would be peaceful.

Well... that and... he had seemed to sleep just fine through the night with her beside him. But she wasn't about to be pushy on that front, she had already tested her luck quite a lot today. She needn't get too bold as to overwhelm him. After all, though he had admitted to loving her back, that didn't necessarily mean he wanted a relationship with her, or felt those feelings as strongly as she did. She needed to take things slow. After a moment, she pushed away those thoughts and actually gave a response.

"It is not silly dear." She assured him, giving him a light, consoling squeeze. "I am sorry that happened to you. I assume it must have been... pretty bad to be enough to trigger a change like that."

As the reply hung in the air, she came to another realization, one of self reflection on the whole situation and felt a twinge of guilt.

"I do apologize Sans, for um... dumping so much on you so very early in the morning." She went on, resting her cheek against his skull. "How are you... feeling? Do you wish to go back to sleep for a while? Or would you like me to prepare you some breakfast maybe?"

A plethora of other questions and offers bubbled up inside her, but she held her tongue as to hopefully not come off as too overbearing.

(Sans)
Hearing the hum, Sans couldn't help but continue to pet and ruffle her neck fur. He wasn't sure if he would be able to get her to make another one of those purrs he remembered hearing earlier. He considered asking about it, but thought against that. When she lightly butted his skull he chuckled. That was an odd way to show affection but he found it amusing and wouldn't mind her doing it again. He could tell she was thinking about his answer. He just hoped she didn't ask what he dreamed about.

There isn't an easy way to say that the nightmare featured her child on a murder spree. If she did asked, he'd had to feign that he forgot. While he waited for her reply he noticed, while he was mostly relaxed, his right hand was still holding on to her clothes as if any moment she might try disappearing. With luck she didn't notice anymore than he did, and he slowly opened is grip. As she spoke, he turned his attention back to her. More than happy she decided to offer sympathy verses further questions.

He considered responding to the first part, but decided not to run the risk of opening himself up to questions and just let her words hang there for a moment. When she rested her cheek on his skull he smiled. Something about that was so enjoyable.

"no worries, tori. considering some of the things that came up... it was worth it," His mind replayed her saying those three words again. Still, it might not be the 'I love you' that he meant... but... hearing that was more than worth having to answer everything else. Though, it did leave him tired... and he was hungry.

"uh... heh, well, i wouldn't mind both but i'll go for either," his mind paused, "actually i'm surprised my bro isn't already up making breakfast...."

(Toriel)
When he had continued to pet her like that, she wondered if he perhaps knew what he was doing. Had she...? Oh stars, she hoped she hadn't been purring in her sleep. She hadn't done that since... No, surely she hadn't. That was just her being paranoid. Still, she would honestly love for him to keep stroking her fur like that fur -ever~.

She briefly considered sharing that pun, but decided against it. His later response to her apology, mentioning that all this was worth it, made a small, fond smile appear on her face. Feeling emboldened by his statement, she gave him another little nuzzle, before resting her cheek on his skull again.

"I am glad you feel that way dear, and I must say I agree." She replied, allowing her tone to become warmer. In response to his second answer though, she allowed herself a few more moments of that close hug and one final little squeeze before gently releasing him so that she could meet his gaze.

She thought about commenting on Papyrus' absence as well, and did find it a touch odd, given the skeleton's usual tendency to be an early riser, but simply reasoned he must be sleeping in a bit after the trying events of the previous night. She faced Sans again, deciding on what to say.

"How about we do both then?" She said, offering an approving smile. "You go ahead and rest here a while longer. I will make something special for breakfast that takes a little bit of time. I saw that your brother keeps his kitchen quite well stocked after all. It will allow me to repay Papyrus for all his kindness last night, and well... always ha ha. How does cinnamon french toast with fruit sound?”

(Sans)
He grinned as he was nuzzled again. He wasn’t fully sure what about that he liked the most. Her soft fur, she squishiness of her nose, or the action of nuzzling. All he knew is that there was no way a nuzzle from him could ever feel that nice. As she settled her cheek on his skull again, he nestled his head against her neck. When she finally released him he personally didn’t feel ready for it. Still, he knew this couldn’t last... and for a moment he wondered how much longer he had until the next reset and he loses all of this…

He shoved that thought back down, not wanting to upset Tori anymore. He heard her suggestion and kinda liked them. He did enjoy resting.

“sounds good, tori.” He then paused, feeling silly for asking. “sure you don’t want help? i know i can be lazy, but i’m not...”

He was going to say useless. But after all of this mornings self-deprecation, he doubted Tori would want to let that just slide.  

“well, i’m not a cook like you two, but i can cook, or at least assist.” He smiled at her.

He was torn between both wanting to help and wanting to sleep. Whichever Tori settles on he will be happy with. Still, he glanced up at his bro’s bedroom door, wondering, and worrying.

(Toriel)

She tilted her head a bit in surprise at his offer, thinking he'd surely have jumped at the chance to go to back to sleep. She considered what to say in reply. Her more nurturing side was telling her to insist Sans get some more rest and just let her take care of everything, but her more thoughtful side saw that the skeleton's offer was notable, and he likely was making it out a desire to be helpful.

It just didn't feel right to reject his help, even if she did it with the best of intentions, she couldn't help but think he'll see it as some kind of rejection on a deeper level. She didn’t miss his little glance up at his brother's room again either, and after a moment she figured out a response.

"Well... you are more than welcome to come help me if you would like. I certainly appreciate the offer. And oh, do not be so modest dear, you have baked pies with me before and they turned out wonderfully! This should not be too far out of your comfort zone."

With that she too cast a glance up to Papyrus' room, and gave Sans an understanding look.

"How about this, I will go get the ingredients prepped, and while I do that, you go check in on your brother real quick, just to make sure everything is okay.... Once you are done with that, feel free to meet me in the kitchen if you would like."

She gave him a look of encouragement and then headed for the kitchen, mind already formulating the refined recipe in her head.

(Sans)

Tori really was an amazing person. Sans didn't even need to say a thing and she knew. Perhaps it was because she was a mother at one point, or maybe she just was always this thoughtful. Whatever it was, Sans couldn’t help but smile. He nodded, agreeing with with her plan.

"sure."

It again stumped him how she could have said those words to him... but, at this point he was happy she had. It might be hard to him to understand, but if she was as happy being with him as he was with her, he'll try not to ruin this. He got up as she left and lazily took one of his short cuts upstairs. Even on the best of days he didn't like climbing them, and after yesterday, he definitely didn't. He knocked on the door then poked his head in.

It would be some time before Sans finally left his brother's room again. When he did, he stood in the hall and rubbed his skull. Papyrus deserves a better brother... With a sigh he went to join Tori in the kitchen, knowing at least his brother is alright. He didn't want to just pop in and startle Tori, so he walked in, gave the simple report of "he saw us earlier..."

He paused, just to let that fully sink in for her as well as himself, "he decided to give us space, he started texting some classmates and then lost track of time. he'll be down soon though, but he said he has to head out to work on a project...."

(Toriel)

Once she’d left Sans to check on his brother, Toriel headed for the kitchen to begin gathering up what she'd need. Papyrus' stock of ingredients and remarkable organization made the task rather easy. Once she had it all, she laid it out neatly on the counter, doing a final check in her head before smiling in satisfaction.

Cooking for her loved ones brought her a deep joy, as did any chance to offer her love and care. There were few things better than seeing the smiles that came with her loved ones enjoying a meal she'd prepared for them. Now that this specific dish was also meant to be one of gratitude towards Papyrus, she was determined to ensure its quality. But she dutifully waited for Sans to re-enter the room before getting started. It didn't take long, and she turned to him as he gave his report of sorts.

The answer he gave made a flare of... something... burn in her soul briefly. It may have been embarrassment, or sympathy, or even guilt? She didn't really know, but it faded quickly just leaving a flurry of questions in her mind. Had he heard her tell Sans that she loves him? Had he heard his brother return those words? Or had he only witnessed Sans' momentary distress and her attempts to comfort him? In all, though a twinge of anxiety over the uncertainty still remained, she accepted the news.

After all, Papyrus seemed to suspect the two of them of having feelings for one another. Him knowing wouldn't be a big deal, just potentially awkward if he attempted to prod them further before they were ready or had figured things out. Whatever he had surmised from what he’d witnessed, she just hoped he wasn't too troubled by it. Re-focusing, she faced Sans again to reply.

"I was afraid of that." She said simply, with a slightly sheepish smile. "Is he... okay with what he saw? I do hope he is not upset with me... for..." She trailed off, really not sure how to finish that thought.

One thing did stick out to her then though. If Papyrus was leaving soon, she should get going with preparing breakfast before that happened. Even if he left too quickly to have any, she could always store it in the fridge for him to try once he got home, and the key to that was putting it in at the peak of freshness. So while she waited for a response from Sans, she pulled the loaf of bread on the table to her and began cutting chunky slices with a knife.

(Sans)

At her question Sans felt his face flush, remembering what his brother had said.

“he’s, uh, more than okay with it. i’m worried, with how much he shares with undyne, he might have told her.”

His brother and Undyne were close. While Sans had accepted the aggressive fish monster as an unofficial sister, and wouldn’t mind her knowing, he was worried that between his brother and Undyne secrets don’t stay secrets most of the time. It depends on what it is... and this was likely to spread.

“but he might not have told yet. i did ask him not to.” Sans started to roll up his sleeves so he could help. “well, considering everything going on at that university, he might not have had time,” as he spoke he washed and dried his hands to be ready to help. He paused that thought to ask, “what should i do?”

(Toriel)

That blush on Sans' face was tell enough of what Papyrus had witnessed, and likely overheard. She felt her own face heat up a bit and rubbed one of her long ears between her fingers in an old nervous habit. She was glad to know he approved, even if she honestly should have suspected as much with all the knowing looks and the light teasing Papyrus had sent their way.

The idea of Undyne knowing was a bit less welcome though... especially since the fish monster was so close to her ex-husband. If Undyne mentioned this to Asgore... well, Toriel really didn't want to think about that. It summoned up a surge of sick conflicted feelings within her soul that were not welcome right now. Instead, she just smiled warmly at Sans as he prepared himself to assist her. Her blush returned somewhat though as she considered what she was going to say in return.

"Well, I suppose it cannot be helped either way, it is bound to get out in time if it has not already." She paused and swallowed nervously before continuing, though her eyes shone lightly with fondness all the while.

"But... you and I may want to talk later about what all this means for us. At least, what it means for the moment. Just so we can uh... be able to answer any nosy questions that may come our way."

The statement hung for a moment, and she took in the rather cute sight of him all prepped for kitchen work. It was endearing to see that desire to help from him, and it made her soul feel all warm again. But then she shook herself and quickly refocused as to not get dragged into a deep conversation about the last thing she'd said.

"But uh, d-do not worry about that now." She insisted, bringing her paws together briefly. "We have a breakfast to prepare, do we not?"

With that, she carefully slid him a small bowl, two eggs, and the pre-measured milk, cinnamon, salt and vanilla extract. Then she handed him a whisk.

"Here, you can prepare the egg wash. I have already measured everything out. Pour all of this into the bowl and whisk it up good until it is all mixed." She instructed, giving him an encouraging smile.

She turned back to her own work, slicing up enough bread for all of them to have a decent portion. She then began to oil up the skillet she'd placed over the range. She hummed to herself as she worked, feeling at ease, especially with him there with her.

(Sans)

She had a point. Now or later, the others were bound to find out if they are... together.... That thought caused his soul to stir. When Sans turned around he saw that hint of pink in Tori’s fur. He liked that look, though he understood the embarrassment behind it.

“yeah, guess we should.”

That... was going to be an interesting conversation later. He just hoped he could get through it without stammering like an idiot. He felt his soul’s magic twisting up in knots from nervousness. What all would be said during that conversation he wondered. Then he thought about Undyne and how she’d react to him. He was now a threat to her adopted father’s perceived happiness. Or the questions from Alphys... oh Alphys was going to be a pain. Granted, her “OTPs” change monthly. And some were hard to predict, but Asgore and Toriel have been consistently on her list of them. He could already hear her as she wanted to know what he was doing ruining her favorite ship.

But he tried to focus back on preparing breakfast. That’s when he noticed her pause was longer than he expected. Did she want him to say more? And he looked up at her. He didn’t know what to think about the way she was looking at him, and that look didn’t last long enough for him to learn it.  “right, breakfast,” he said before looking over the ingredients she has already set out for him. He took the whisk and listened to her instructions.

That didn’t sound too hard... and with it all measured out he didn’t have to worry about adding too much of something. Not that he ever had... thanks to his various interests in sciences, including chemistry, the value of careful measuring and double checking directions was ingrained into him. He watched at she turned back to continue cooking. ... She always looked so happy when she cooks or bakes. So beautiful...

He snapped his mind back and tried to remember why he had a whisk. Recalling the instructions, he put the ingredients in and started mixing it together. The effort was far more than he was used to for making his own food. That, and his already tired self, caused him to feel his magic bead up as a mock form of sweat. Once done he turned to Tori.

“how’s that?”

(Toriel)

As she finished oiling the skillet and setting the thick bread slices on a paper towel, she shot a few glances at Sans out of the corner of her eye. He was putting a reasonable amount of effort into the task she'd assigned him, enough to make him sweat a little it seemed. That made her wonder how tired he really was, and she made a mental note to herself to insist he take a nap after this and before they had their little "talk."

That shouldn't be hard to convince him to do, thankfully. When he'd finished and asked if he'd done it properly, she looked into the bowl to find it indeed was nicely whipped and ready. She gave him a warm smile and nodded, slowly wrapping a paw around the bowl and easing it closer to her.

"Perfect, thank you very much." She said with a wink, before gesturing for him to step over next to her. "Now you can help me dunk the bread slices into the egg wash. But first..."

She paused to draw in a deep inhale through her nose, and on the exhale she summoned a small, controlled ball of pale purple flame in one of her paws. She then guided it up and over to the stovetop, lifting up the skillet briefly as the ball of flame settled in place, then placing it back down on top of it. Fire magic would always be her preferred method of cooking, it was easier to control the temperature with it, and it left no mess behind. A true win win.

Indeed, the oil on the skillet began to sizzle and pop right on cue. Once that was done, she smiled back at Sans and handed him a pair of tongs as she picked up a pair for herself as well.

"Now this is the fun part." She declared with a grin. "Just take the bread slices in the tongs" As she spoke, she did just that in order to demonstrate to Sans, plucking up one of the slices she'd cut. "And then dunk it in the egg wash, making sure you get both sides." She dipped the slice a few times until it was thoroughly covered to her liking. "Finally, plop it down on the skillet, and I will take care turning them and seeing they cook to a nice golden brown."

As she waited for Sans to try it for himself, she tended to the piece she'd already placed on the skillet, pressing it lightly to elicit a satisfying sizzle as it began to cook.

(Sans)

He smiled at the praise of a job well done. It was better than her trying to fix the mistakes he had made when she was first was teaching him how to bake. He then watched as she lit the stove. In truth, he always enjoyed that part. He didn't know how it was for humans, but seeing another monster use their magic in a constructive manner was welcoming. Since returning to the surface, he has played around with the idea of writing a paper about the use of magic with science, since humans don't. Their lack of magical skills has allowed them to excel in areas of science monsters have not, while being stunted in others.

But, he figured that honor should go to Alphys. Though, even with his hints, she hasn't bothered doing it. With the stove lit, he took the tongs she handed to him. She showed him what to do next and it seemed easy enough. Not that he couldn't come up with new and inventive ways to mess up, but with her instructions and demonstration, he doubted even he could screw this up.

He did as she showed him, grabbing a piece of bread with the tongs, and he made sure it was well coated in the egg wash. Feeling that it looked like the one she had done, he then placed it in the pan. Easy. Honestly, he thinks he might make this one of those few mornings he decides to actually get out of bed before Papyrus... He is often awake, nightmares disrupting his sleep, but he generally is too tired to get out of bed. Still, on the mornings he does get up, he makes something for his brother before he leaves for his classes, usually oatmeal.

"smells really good," he said before picking up the next slice to get the next ready.

(Toriel)

Toriel couldn't keep the smile off her face as she watched Sans continue to assist her in preparing the bread slices. He seemed happy for the bit of praise she'd offered him earlier and it was good to see a real, bright smile on his face again, even a fleeting one. That happiness seemed to still be lingering there as he dunked the bread pieces in the egg wash alongside her.

Even if it was a simple task, it was good to see him doing something like this of his own free will, just out of an effort to be helpful to her. For most monsters that would be but a trifle, but she understood it was more difficult for him, and thus, more meaningful when he did choose to engage in it. His comment about the now delectable scent rising up from the skillet made her smile widen and she nodded.

"Yes, french toast tends to smell best when it is good and toasty ." She quipped, shooting him in a wink.  

Oh that was terrible, so wonderfully terrible. After that bit of silliness, the two were able to get all the slices prepped and sizzling. As Toriel brought each one to an ideal golden brown color, she'd pick it up with the tongs and begin laying them out on three plates. As she finished with the final two, she handed Sans the sugar shaker, which had been previously freshly filled with powdered sugar.

"Give this a few shakes and taps over each piece, until it looks like... a nice covering of snow on top perhaps." She instructed, demonstrating on one for him. The sight of the dish was near perfect now, and smell now really beginning to work at her hunger. Once she handed the device over to him, she quickly moved over to begin cutting up some fruit she'd gotten out for a side dish. As she did, she kept talking, a happy lilt to her voice.

"What sort of fruit do you prefer, dear? Oh, and would you like syrup or jam on top of your toast?" She asked.

(Sans)

The pun made him chuckle as he started to dip the next slice. It felt good to laugh happily after all that happened, and he had to offer up one of his own. He gave her a wink.

"no matter how you slice it tori, that was pretty punny ."

He hoped she would find as much amusement out of those as he found in hers. They weren't good puns, not that he ever really told any good ones. But they were the best he could get off the top of his head. And, Tori's overall taste in puns typically met his own. Any pun has the potential to be a good pun. All that matters is how you use it. If you get a laugh, good job, it was funny. If you get a groan, good job also, it was most likely also funny but the listener doesn't want to admit it.

He placed the next slice in the pan and continued until they were done. She then showed him how to add the sugar and handed the sugar shaker to him. He started to add the sugar and it made him think of that one human song he’d heard, with the lyrics asking the listening to "pour some sugar on me"... he decided, as amusing at that would be, maybe not to try making a joke out of that. Right now he's not sure he could without it sounding as suggestive as the song sounds.

He then had to pause, thinking over the question asked.

"uh... not sure i have a favorite, i like most fruit really. i'll take that back, tomatoes are a fruit, right? but i'm sure you meant other kinds of fruits."

At that point he just shrugged. Compared to his brother, Sans was the one with the sweet tooth, and most fruits are sweet, which makes them good to him. Papyrus though, he figured didn't like the sweeter fruits since he rarely bought them.

"pap likes citrus and apples, or at least he mostly buys those. and syrup, though, pap would want jam for sure."

The questions had been directed towards him, and he hoped she didn't mind he turned them towards his brother. Sans just never really had the time or energy to care about having favorite anythings. Food was food when he was younger and caring for his brother. Which might be why he was able to tolerate inedible spaghetti for so long.

He finished adding the sugar and actually felt pretty good about what he'd done. It always felt good helping Tori cook or bake... and it was nice watching her work too. He was thinking of calling Papyrus when he heard him coming down the stairs.

(Toriel)

His pun, or rather double puns that he returned her way had her giggling harder than she probably should have, a snort or two escaping her as well. Perhaps it was her soul's way of making up for all the heavy emotions of earlier. Perhaps his pun really was that wonderfully terrible. Perhaps it was a little of both. Whatever the case, It felt so good to laugh again, and to see him return his usually pun -iness.

When he was answering her questions, his answers brought more amusement with them, at least his quip about tomatoes being a fruit. Perhaps they were, technically, but she didn't think they'd pair all that well with the french toast. She gave him a nod in response to the stated preferences, finding it sweet that Sans knew his brother's tastes so well. Perhaps it was a little concerning how quick he was to always talk about his brother when asked about himself, but it was still heartwarming to see how much he cared.

Instead of any tomatoes, based on his answers, she added to Sans' plate a few sliced strawberries and a handful of blueberries. For Papyrus, apple slices and a few small orange wedges. She also chose the plate with the least sugar for Papyrus, picking up the fact that the younger skeleton was not one for cloying sweetness. For herself, strawberries and a few pieces of mango. They weren't snails, but they would certainly do.

Then she finally topped it all off by pouring a reasonable portion of syrup over her and Sans' toast and spreading an even amount of jam on Papyrus'. Looking over her work... no their work, brought her a small surge of pride and happiness at their creation, and she shot Sans a wide smile as she dusted off her paws against her apron. She was about to praise him for a job well done and thank him for his help, when she heard the sound of Papyrus coming down the the stairs as well.

(Sans)

When Toriel giggled at his pun Sans couldn’t help but chuckle again. He really did love the sounds she made when happy. Add to her laughs and giggles the new discovery of her purr. Just as Tori finished the final touches to the French toast, Papyrus entered the room, face beaming.

Sans, though, knew better. His younger brother had been looking forward to this weekend and spending time together. It’s why he had made sure his part of the group project he was doing was done early. But now he was headed out to work on the project with his group. Still, Papyrus didn’t let this fact get to him as he smiled big.

“GOOD MORNING, LADY TORIEL!” Papyrus said, looking at breakfast, “THAT LOOKS POSITIVELY DELICIOUS!”

Sans smiled and shrugged.

“tori’s recipe, she let me help though.” His brother seemed to beam brighter at that and, Sans continued to smile, “going to join us before you leave?”

To that Papyrus nodded, “OF COURSE! ANYTHING I CAN HELP WITH?”

Leave it to his brother to not get this was a way of saying ‘thank you for all you do.’ Though he doubted he was that much better, especially after this morning’s conversation.

“nah, bro, just relax, we’ve got this,” he said glancing at Tori to back him up, while he tried to usher his brother to the table.

(Toriel)

"Good morning, Papyrus." She greeted him warmly as he entered the room, and smiled at his reaction to the food. That is always one of the best feelings, to be able to present someone with a delicious breakfast once they come down for the first time that day. When Sans mentioned his part in making it, she gave him a light nudge with her elbow and corrected him.

"Sans offered to assist me, and he was a wonderful help indeed. He also ensured I made your toast to your liking." She said, a somewhat playful smile spreading on her face as she looked down at Sans.

Her dear skeleton really needed to learn to give himself proper credit. She was delighted to see how happy the information made Papyrus too, no doubt recognizing the significance of Sans willful participation just as she had. When Sans insisted his brother sit down and let them handle it, she nodded and picked up the plates.

"I appreciate it Papyrus, but we prepared this as sort of a thank you for all you did yesterday. And just for being the "coolest monster ever."" She said that last part in a imitation of Sans' lazy monotone, indicating who so often used that term. "You just sit down and let us handle things, my friend."

With that, she made quick work of setting the table, with Sans' help of course, who she asked to prepare and bring out their drinks. As she placed Papyrus' food and utensils in front of him, she can tell the usually proud, self-assured skeleton was a little antsy to not be helping. There might have been some other emotions there too, something like disappointment or even frustration perhaps? But she could tell it wasn't directed at them, rather found in a moment of spaciness from the younger skeleton, quite a rarity to see from him.

She gave him a meaningful pat on the shoulder, hoping to reassure him and keep him focused on the happy event of the present as she laid a napkin beside his knife and fork. Once everything was settled, she and Sans took their place at the table along with him. Only then did she get the chance to turn to Sans again.

"Thank you again Sans, I really appreciate the help, you did wonderfully.” Then she addressed them both. “I hope you both enjoy!~” She trilled in cheerful voice.

Despite her hunger, Toriel simply watched the others at first, slowly cutting her first piece as she waited for the skeleton brothers' to take their first bite. That moment was always one she loved to see, that first bite bringing its flavor to a hungry palette. She was especially curious to what Sans would think, seeing as he helped make the breakfast in the first place.

(Sans)

When Tori nudged him lightly before stating what he did, he felt an odd mix of pride and embarrassment. It didn’t seem like it should have been a big deal, or worth mentioning, yet it felt good hearing those words. Papyrus had an odd look of pride in his sockets when Tori said that too. That inner dark self wanted to tear at him, he heard it asking ‘have i really gotten this bad, that something so simple makes them that happy?’ But he forced himself to focus on the accomplishment part of it.

He continued to add to that by helping Tori get the table ready for eating. Though, when Tori imitated him, he felt magic spread across his face. He does say that a lot, doesn’t he... and that was... rather “interesting” to hear from her. It didn’t help that when he set Papyrus’ drink down, Sans looked at his bro he saw that “knowing” grin on his face. Sans knew that he knew. Heck, Sans himself finally knew. Yet, his bro’s simple means to tease got to him and he nearly spilled his own drink while setting it down in a flustered state. A couple of drops did slosh over the glass rim, which he soaked up with a napkin.

He noticed the pat Tori gave his brother. The younger skeleton placed his hand over Tori’s, confirming that he appreciated and found comfort in that simple act. Sans felt his soul warmed by that. He finally sat down and picked up his fork. He wanted to watch his bro’s reaction, but what energy he had gained from dinner last night needed replenished. It had been a start, and there was no way his body could have handled more undigested magic at that time.

So now, after all that time smelling and looking at the food, his body practically screamed at him to eat. Still, he kept a socket on Papyrus, smiling when he saw those familiar sparks that showed up when his bro was really happy, accompanied by the, “WOWIE!” That was all he needed before he let himself really dig in. Which was no hardship by any means, as he greatly enjoyed the flavor of the toast.

He tried to eat at a reasonable pace, but hunger and the great flavor did work against him as he practically stuffing the food down. Though, Papyrus ate quickly himself then apologized for needing to leave, and that he would be back around dinner. Sans made sure to give his bro a hug, “see ya later.”

“YES! I’LL SEE BOTH OF YOU WHEN I GET BACK!” Papyrus said with a smile before heading out the door.

After his brother left, Sans felt unsure about what was next. The talk? He was tired but if she was ready to talk, so was he.

(Toriel)

Though he looked a little embarrassed, Toriel could tell Sans was glad to be praised, even for something simple like this. He seemed to be respond well to encouragement like that, and it was another thing she added to internal notes about him. It was also quite cute and amusing to see him blush at her imitation of him, perhaps she should try things like that more often, mindful not to let it become something too embarrassing for him of course.

It made her wonder what it would be like to hear him imitate her voice. Frisk told her that he did that once back in the underground, when he'd told them of their first meeting at the door. The idea itself was hilarious enough, actually hearing it might put her in stitches. She also noticed the bit of teasing between the brothers, where Papyrus' knowing grin returned and made poor Sans nearly spill his drink. Seemed her dear skeleton wasn't going to get a break from that today, especially now that things were more or less out in the open.

When everyone began to eat she was overjoyed to see all the positive reception, for her sake and for Sans'. She hoped he could feel some pride at what he had helped accomplish. He must have really been hungry too, as he wolfed down his food pretty fast once he got started. Toriel may not be Queen anymore, but she never quite fully abandoned her own table manners, at least while at the table. So she ate a slower pace than the brothers, favoring every bite of that old family recipe. Delicious.

Papyrus had to head out quickly after that and she bid him farewell alongside his brother. Once the door was closed and the table was cleared, there was a notable heavy pause between them. All there was left to ask was... what's next? Toriel walked back over to him and offered a sympathetic smile.

"Thank you again for your help dear, I really do appreciate it." She looked him over, taking in his tired appearance and remembering what she'd told herself to do once breakfast was done. "Would you like to go back to sleep for a while, Sans? I know you are tired. We can talk after you have rested a bit if you would like."

She paused, another blush trying to work up on her face as she tapped her claws together in an anxious little motion. "I would be happy to uh... sit with you like before, while you do. If you would like that. I have been meaning to read a bit of this new book I picked up anyway."

Oh dear Toriel, that was clumsy. She thought. She wondered if he even picked up on what she was offering. Whatever he answered, they'd likely need to sit down anyway for what was to come. She walked over to the couch-turned-bed and sat down, giving the cushion beside her a pat to indicate for him to do the same.

(Sans)

Sans smiled back up at Tori when she thanked him. It really felt good to hear her say that, and knowing that he had offered to help when she had given him an out to sleep.

"welcome, tori, thought it was a good way to thank you for all you did yesterday." He rubbed the back of his neck a little, thinking on that.

Even thinking about what had all happened brought back the tiredness he had. And feeling full, he knew he could easily sleep. But should he? They needed to have that talk at some point... That's when she asked about what he was thinking about. He looked away as he thought on that... She knew he was tired... well... he was pretty much always tired but it must be clearer to see then normal. Still, he wasn't sure he could sleep right now, not with all the thoughts in his head.

He sighed, thinking he was going to reject the offer for now when he looked back at her and saw her blushing. She also looked... anxious? It caused him to pause and listen as she continued. As she did he felt himself start to blush also. He began to freeze up, remembering cuddling with her yesterday, this morning, and now... she was offering to sit with him as he slept. It wouldn't be a new thing. They have watched movies together and he had fallen asleep. It was always nice, but... it wasn't planned. It was just them being together. This was her inviting him to sleep beside her.

Maybe, though, she didn't mean the cuddling like before. There was plenty of space on the sofa, after all. As he tried wrestling with what she fully meant he watched her walk over and sit then offered for him to join her. She patted the space next to her. He wasn't sure what to do so instincts just took over, and he walked over and sat in the indicated space. He looked at her again, then smiled, though it felt awkward

"i, uh, could use a nap i think... just not a long one, since we do need to talk."

With how he was sleeping, he could sleep most of the day. He could try forcing himself to stay up now, but he would most likely fall asleep during the talk. So, this seemed like a good idea... just... which way should he lean? He really wanted to cuddle up to her, but... is that was she meant? What if it wasn't, and he just cuddled up to her and made things awkward? He'll watch what she does, she's so far been good about letting him know what she'd like or offering for him to do.

(Toriel)

Toriel was relieved when he accepted her offer to sleep, he looked like he really needed it. Even if Sans was tired most of the time, he seemed especially tired now. Perhaps the mental strain of all that happened, though not all of it negative, was contributing to that, along with the lingering fatigue from his transforming yesterday. Whatever the reason, it eased her worries a bit when he came and sat next to her.

He seemed happy to do it, but hesitant all the same. That wasn't surprising, especially since she had fumbled with her words before. She got the feeling actions would be more useful than words here. He was looking at her like he wanted to press closer to her, but was worried how she'd react. Clearly he'd enjoyed their time together last night, and the idea that he'd want do something like that again warmed her soul deep down. If she were being honest, she wanted nothing more than to cuddle him close as well. It had brought some much needed comfort to her lonely old soul.

So, she willed back her own insecurities and offered a warm smile as she looped an arm around him and pulled him close to her. Then she settled back into the cushions a bit, encouraging him to lean into her.

"Very well, get some sleep then dear." She said softly, pulling the blanket over them both again with her free paw. "I will wake you in an hour or so if you do not wake before then. And try not to let your mind be troubled by what we have yet to discuss. Everything will be alright." Once the words left her, she rested her chin on the top of his skull, content to leave it there until he drifted off.

She herself likely would not be able to sleep, but she was happy to stay there with him until he had rested enough to face their impending conversation with the focus it deserved. They would both need it. For now though, she let herself forget all that and just enjoy being close with him, in a way that was quickly becoming almost normal for them. It was something she would positively love to get used to.

(Sans)

He was startled as she pulled him closer, having had expected a more subtle way to let him know. Not that he minded... it just surprised him. He looked at her for a moment and smiled as she pulled a blanket over them. He then leaned into her.

"heh, ok, tori... thanks...," he closed his eye sockets, feeling... safe... Or as safe as he could feel... the kid has yet to reset in over a year now, and hasn't shown any signs that they wanted to. But... they might... they still have the power to, after all. There was no way to know for sure that they wouldn’t.

He didn't want to leave Tori's side... he didn't want to wake up and only talk to her through a door. Slowly, he moved his hand over for another point of contact. His fingers gripped onto her clothes, trying to be mindful of the plush fur underneath. He tried to keep his breathing even as nuzzled into her. His thoughts quickly became hazy as sleep took over. With all the thoughts of resets and his other form in his head lately, it ended up affecting his dreams. Not that they normally don't.

---

He hated that thing. It hurt his brother too many times to count. He hated it more than the other part of him... in fact that side hated it too. So much so, they worked together. It hurt... as always... but it needed to happen. That twisted smiling face surrounded by golden yellow. He'll rip that plant apart. He'll blast it away, He'll destroy it over and over and over until it brings his brother back.

---

It wasn't right away, but it did cause him to start moving a little in his sleep as his breath rate increased. His body thought he was in a fight that was now only in his mind. His magic even started to flare as it readied to take action.

(Toriel)

Toriel smiled as Sans settled against her, glad to see he was indeed okay with being held like this again. He had seemed a touch startled at first though, and she made a mental note to be more slow and telegraph her movements better from then on. Still, there was no sign of discomfort from him, and her smile grew warmer as he gripped onto her with his other hand, and nuzzled into her. It made her soul flutter inside her and was almost enough to elicit a purr from her, but she caught herself before that could happen.

She could certainly get used to this, and maybe she could dare to hope that after their talk later, she would. She gave him a little squeeze in return, to hopefully show her approval in his further displays of affection. It didn't take too long for him to slip into sleep after that, snoring softly. Once she was sure he was fully out, she lifted her head off of his skull for a moment, only to turn and then lay her cheek against it instead. It allowed her then to pull out the book she'd be reading from her purse. The History of the Delta Rune and Monsterkind's Prophecy.

It was a recent publication by an auspicious young monster who had interviewed many monsters that lived in the times of the war. Gerson had provided most of the interviews, and she herself had been willing to speak on her experiences and knowledge regarding the subject as well. She had been sent a free copy now that it was in print, and was told it was becoming quite the bestseller, even among some human territories. It was a fascinating read, though she did admit that if felt strange to read about herself from an outside perspective. The author hadn't demonized her for her past actions like others had though, as she had somewhat feared, so she was thankful for that at least.

She was deep into an interview from a living descendant of one of original seven wizards when she felt Sans move a bit. The movement felt strange somehow, like a jolt of some sort, and drew her eyes down to him. Then she heard him start to breathe heavier, faster and the movements came again, harsher now. Concern gripped her instantly, and she hurriedly set aside the book in order to fully address whatever was happening.

"Sans...?" She said his name cautiously, running a paw down his back.

For a moment she had thought he was awake. Then she could see that his eye sockets were still firmly shut tight, and he gave no answer. He was still asleep... That meant, oh stars, was he having a nightmare? The concern turned to true fear in that moment, as she remembered quite well what had happened to him last time he'd had a nightmare.

As she detected the sensation of his magic beginning to stir, it felt as though her soul dropped within her and she moved quickly. Willing her voice to be calm as possible, she pulls back a bit and gives his shoulders a purposeful shake.

"Sans, Sans dear, wake up. It is okay, you are safe. You are just having a nightmare." She said, tone gentle but elevated.

(Sans)

A sound caught his attention. He knew this sound... it was a voice. His mind clung to it, pulling him out of the nightmare. Things didn’t make sense though. His eye sockets opened, the lights within were fuzzy as he looked up at her. What as Tori doing here? At least he knows she’s safe, for now. “tori” he croaked, sleep hanging heavy to his voice. His eye sockets remained half closed as he looked around, unsure of what he was seeing.

“you... shouldn’t ...here.” His words sounded, sluggish, even to him. He fought to strengthen and speed them up. “not safe.” he finished that thought and sat up while tightening his hold on her.

His eye lights focused as his vision did. The information still didn’t make sense... he was in Waterfall... where was he now? And where was the Flower? Was... was there a reset? Was he back in the house in Snowdin? Remembering Tori he looked at her again, feeling that panic slip away. Tori hasn’t been in the house in Snowdin. He was on the surface, he was safe, Tori... had said she loved him... and there hasn’t been a reset. He leaned back against her, now fully awake.

Nightmares during the day... this was getting more bothersome. He was used to them plaguing him at night and catching up on missed sleep during the day. This was getting ridiculous. Well, he had gotten some sleep and wouldn’t be ready to sleep again for a good long while.

“sorry about that,” he mumbled, sounding far more awake.

He noticed his hand was starting to hurt from how tight his grip on her clothes was and he relaxed his hand slightly, not fully ready to let go.

(Toriel)

Toriel fought to keep calm as Sans started showing signs of reacting to her voice. When his eye sockets opened, part of her prepared herself for him to potentially lash out or take hold of her soul. But that didn't happen, instead he rasped out her name and looked around in a haze, muttering something about her not being safe in a confused, drawling tone.

He clung tighter to her as well, only making her soul ache all the more for him. She kept talking to him, repeating the same things she'd said before in a effort to ground him. And then slowly, she could see recognition begin to re-enter his eyelights, so long as they were trained on her. Then they focused entirely, and she could tell he was now fully awake. There were still flickers of pain and fear in those little lights, and it hurt to see, but mostly all that was displayed was frustration. That confused her deeper, but she was too caught up in relief to give it much focus.

When his apology came, she promptly held him tight once more and rubbed his back in slow, hopefully soothing circles. He was still clinging to her, even if his grip had loosened some with awareness. Perhaps if she matched that by keeping a tight hold on him as well, he'd be reassured of his safety... and her own. She could only imagine what he'd been seeing to be so scared for her. Though she had a pretty good guess, given what she knew his nightmares had led to in the past. Thankfully, there were no signs of another change starting, that she could detect at least.

"It is alright Sans, no need to apologize." She soothed. "Are you okay now?"

(Sans)

It helped him calm down more being held to her... and it just felt nice. Having grown used to nightmares, he no longer felt as stressed over them as he did when he was young. Already he was feeling calmer and he nodded. “yeah, i’m okay.”

He could say he was a little shaken and not be lying, but that feeling would soon fade. Either way, he wasn’t happy with the idea of upsetting her, even if he couldn’t be blamed for what he dreamt. Well, if not an apology, he could try offering his appreciation for her waking him.

“thanks, tori.” he smiled at her. No matter how hard he tried, he still couldn’t convince himself to let her go, even with her holding him. Which was silly, nothing he held will stay that way if there was a reset.

Yet, this was the first time in any timeline that he learned she loved him. ... about that.

“now that i’m up, wanna have that talk?” He’d rather move on in topics. He didn’t want to layer on her any more issues. And he definitely didn’t want to tell her about resets. She will either think he is crazy, or worse... believe him. It’s just so easy to give up when you know your future can just disappear. Living in ignorance seems so much happier.

(Toriel)

Toriel found herself rather dumbfounded at how quickly he was able to recover. She couldn't attribute that simply to the fact she'd been there to wake and comfort him, no, it spoke to a deeper issue here. He was used to this. The idea made her feel truly sick, and she inevitably wondered how many nights, and even days, he’d spent tormented by dark dreams of this sort. Perhaps there was a link to his other form behind all this, but she didn't want to dwell on such ideas for the moment.

While she was glad he wasn't all that troubled by what had just occurred, and thus was not in any danger of changing again, it also continued to bother her that he was so proficient in quashing his emotions, this time being fear and distress. His quick thanks and jump to change the subject also let her know that there was little chance of him telling her the specifics of the dream either.

It did... sting a bit. Though the feeling was unwarranted and she knew it. Though they had been close for years, he was never open about these things and she had no right to expect him to be. After all, there were a handful of things she'd be quite hesitant to tell him about herself too. Things that brought her great shame and haunted her own sleepless nights.

Even with all that in mind though, she still wished he wouldn't be so quick to put up walls around her, as though she were something to be wary of, as if she were somehow untrustworthy. That too was unfair to him though and she pushed those thoughts away as best she could to focus on the present. She would just have to be content with what she could do for him now, and, perhaps, after they had this talk... there could be more she could accomplish in time.

"You are welcome dear." She replied to his thanks, continuing to hold and stroke him since he had yet to let go or pull away. "I... am just glad you are alright."

To his second question, she can't help but pause, again struck at how quickly he had attempted to change the subject. Nonetheless, a blush formed anew on her cheeks as she settled on a reply. "I suppose we can..." She said, cautiously. "But are you sure you are... well... are you sure you do not want a few minutes more to... recover? Forgive me if I am being silly... it just seems you had quite a scare."

(Sans)

He couldn’t help but get the feeling he said or did something wrong. As to what, he had no idea. He just could tell something was bothering her. Knowing that gave him a pang of guilt. She had just helped him and he had just hurt her thoughtlessly. Wanting to know what it was, he thought on that. Although, she ended up answering what the problem was herself.

He looked down in thought. He really was okay. But it must not be normal to be okay so soon after a nightmare. Of course, not much in his life is normal... his eye sockets darkened. He had to face facts... if she loved him the way he loved her, she needed to know this stuff so there would be no more surprises.

“i’m a bit shaken, but i’m fine... it didn’t rattle me as much as... yesterday’s,” he winced and looked away. Why was opening up so... overwhelming? Even if it was, if it meant she would be happy, he’d sacrifice his privacy.

“tori... if you, uh, really want to, y’know... be here...” He was feeling annoyed as the words in his head weren’t coming out like he wanted. He tried again after sighing.

“i hate talking about these things... and some is... well hard to talk about.” He closed his eye sockets and continued, “but if it will help, i’ll try being more... open about things. just, uh, let me know when i’m being too closed off.” He looked up at her, “i said i love you, and i mean it... and... my tendency to keep things to myself hurt you, or it seems to be that way. i don’t want to hurt you....”

(Toriel)

For the second time in a short while, Toriel felt stunned into momentary silence. She blinked, taking in his words for a few moments. Had he...really read her that easily? She supposed that her question may have displayed her insecurities a bit but... it was still so surprising. It made her feel a mix of warmth and embarrassment, but the positive feelings outweighed any negative easily.

It was touching to know he cared so much, that he could tell that her little selfish sentiment had caused her some pain. And that he was willing to do something so difficult for him to make her feel better. It inevitably wanted to bring guilt to her soul along with everything else, that her selfishness had been on display enough for him to catch on, but she did her best not to pay it any heed. They would likely keep spiraling around in a circle of guilt if she gave into that. It wouldn't get them anywhere. So instead, she did her best to think of something more constructive she could say as a reply.

She could comment about the first thing he'd said, but the reaction he'd had to even just mentioning the last nightmare he'd experienced was more than enough for now. The fact he'd admitted to that at all was notable. So she focused on the more meaningful, sincere words of care he'd shared with her. That second "i love you" from him especially stirring her soul and making her flustered again. She cleared her throat and attempted to focus before she began her response.

"Sans I... I am touched, dear. That... means to a lot to me, that you would be willing to do that." She said, scarlet eyes warm. "And yes, it... does hurt a bit when you shut me out, especially when you are clearly hurting… It would certainly be helpful for me to know better what is going on with you, so I know what to expect with you, what things I should worry or not worry about... and how to best help you with your struggles.“

Almost by instinct, she slowly freed and reached up a paw to gently cup the side of his skull, cradling it, and him by extension, like some precious treasure.

"But do remember, I must not ask too much of you, and you should not push yourself too hard in that regard out of concern for me. I must keep in mind that this is not easy for you. In fact, I think it is fair to say it is more difficult for you than it is for most monsters, and there is nothing wrong with that. You have your rights to your secrets, the right to set boundaries in what you wish to share with me, and you should set them and let me know when I am asking too much, or prying too deeply. And I should, and will, do the same.”

She paused for a moment, furrowing her brows a bit in thought as she contemplated the best way to continue.  

“Perhaps the boundaries can change in time, as things… potentially progress, but there is no rush with these things, so long as it is not something urgent. I promise though, whatever you choose to share with me, I shall honor that show of trust and not turn away from you because of it, nor share it with another soul. And I am willing to bet you would do the same for me.”

Once her long winded speech finally ended and she blushed a bit for her gabbiness and… other feelings, she offered him another warm smile.

“After all… it is as they say… love is a... two way compromise, is it not?” She asked.

Well, all that was certainly one way to begin this important conversation.

(Sans)

Her silence made him pause, as he worried if he was wrong with his assumption or if he had been too forward with it. Perhaps he had misread her. He'd always found that reading others was easy, though he did have trouble reading Tori. She has her own secrets like he did. Though, as he got to know her, that had changed. She wasn't easy to read, but with enough information, or the same reaction to something, he could figure out what she might have felt.

Maybe he should apologize for making an assumption. He readied himself to speak again when she spoke up instead. The first part caused him to then relax and he smiled up at her. He saw the warmth in her eyes and he felt such peace from seeing it. It reminded him of how he felt in the presence of her fire magic. Never burning, only providing such wonderful, nurturing warmth. Though he felt his soul sink when she admitted that his past actions had caused her pain.

His goal of sparing her pain had only caused her pain. He could argue that the pain he caused was less than the pain she would have felt had he told her. But knowing Tori, as he thought about yesterday, she's the type that the opposite would be true. And he doubted she would believe him if he told her not to worry about any of it, that there was really nothing to worry about. He had long since learned how to deal with all of this. It is not the way she would have wanted, he was sure, but to him, it had be dealt with.

He gets nightmares, most, though not all, dealing with events that no longer happened. He accepts that, wakes up, gets a snack if needed, then goes back to sleep. Changes happen and they are painful, horrible, and scary... but there's nothing that can be done, so... hate it but live with it. At any second everything can be taken away... so don't build anything.... Sans tightened his grip again at that thought.

Tori's paw touched and cradled his skull. He looked up at her, feeling a mix of love, fear, embarrassment, and adoration. There was the feeling of her magic causing a blush to spread on his face. Though he could get lost looking at her, he focused on what she was saying.

Yes, he will set boundaries. There was no way he was going to share the information that led to him being like... this... not willing to try most of the time. Willing to accept that he had no control over anything. The idea of her being like him... seeing the same tired look on her on face that he wore... hurt his soul.

At the end of her speech, he thought he saw some pink showing through her fur and he felt his own blush deepen. To her question, he nodded.

“yea… tori, it is. and you’re right, i would do the same for you.” He paused for a moment, as this opened up a possibility of something that had been bothering him.

“tori… just make sure you don’t feel like you can’t share with me also. i worry that you focus so much on helping me at times you forget about yourself or your own pain….” He hoped she took this the right way and didn’t feel like he was pushing any boundaries she set up.

(Toriel)

As she spoke, she watched Sans' expression work through a range of emotions, from happiness, to guilt and even a hint of despair that made him clutch at her tighter. But her touch against his skull then seemed to steady his emotions somewhat once more, and he listened on more thoughtfully. There was some expected blushing at the act too, his endearing fond expression warming her soul as she continued on with her little speech.

She felt something within her ease when he accepted her words, filled with joy at his response. She could tell there was something in particular he did not wish to tell her, likely related to this other form of his, but it didn’t make any twinge of rejection come now. Clearly there were things at the root of all this that were too painful to talk about, and she was content with that, so long as he was.

His poor ways of handling it all could be addressed in time, now that she could feel the trust between them had deepened. For now though, this was enough, and it made her feel all the closer to him. His last request brought her a moment of pause as she considered the words, then she gave him another warm smile, though her eyes carried a now more openly heavy weariness to them.

If she wanted him to feel more comfortable about opening up to her, then she should be open with him as well, should she not? After all, perhaps he'd find comfort in her words and some assurance he wasn't alone... wait... she was doing it again, exactly as he'd said.

This was supposed to be about... her pain, not his. As always, lingering on her own wants made her feel selfish, especially when the option to focus on others was right there and so much more honorable. But... maybe this was a bigger problem for her than she realized.

“Thank you Sans." She murmured after a few moments, sweeping a thumb gently over his cheekbone. "I will... keep that in mind. For you are right... I must admit."

She closed her eyes briefly, reflecting for a moment on the dull ache of all her past suffering and loss that lingered ever presently in her soul, always just under the surface. "I do tend to spend so much time worrying and caring for those around me, that I neglect my own needs. It is... a problem. One I need to give more focus on correcting. I just have a hard time with the... guilt and the feelings of selfishness that come with focusing on myself, you know?”

“I am a monster who has caused a great deal of suffering in the past, for monsters... and humans. Even if I had good intentions. I have… much to make up for.” Her red eyes opened again at that, looking a bit more hazy as she was drawn further into her thoughts. “And… I fear my time in the Ruins, all that isolation… It did not do me any favors. I am not the confident and self-assured Queen I used to be, merely her damaged shell. That on top of everything I lost in the past… I guess sometimes I am too scared that saying or doing the wrong thing, anything selfish, will make those I love want to leav-“

She cut herself off, realizing just how far she’d gone with spilling her own faults. A twinge of her own self hatred flared up in her soul, making her wince a bit, but she shook herself and managed a weak smile again. She also pulled her paw from his skull to briefly cover her face with, suddenly not feeling all that worthy of touching him like that.

“Stars, listen to me. Sorry… I tend to ramble sometimes… I um… talked to myself a lot in the Ruins… D-do not be too troubled by any of that dear okay?” As she waited for his reply, she left her face covered, acting as though it were a display of exasperation for herself, but really feeling fearful of meeting his gaze again, fearing what sort of emotion she’d see there.

(Sans)

He felt his soul flutter when she thanked him, and more so when her thumb swept over his cheekbone. He was happy she was at least willing to think about it, but he was hoping for a complete agreement. Toriel’s story, some of it, was in easy access to every monster. It was taught in schools, written in books, and was even played out by Mettaton. But many of those paint her as some villain who’d rather run off and be with humans than see her people free and happy.

He couldn’t imagine that is a healthy thing to find out, even for the most stoic of person... and then her children... Asriel, Chara, and he could assume at least most of the 6 humans before Frisk, if not all of them. These were glaring pains that she kept buried by self-sacrifice. But he could see it now and then when around a crowd of monsters or at times she looks at Frisk.

She did admit to it though, her self neglect. One word shocked him though. Selfish... selfish?! She was the least selfish person he knew. She had let this concern tear at her until she’d become completely self sacrificing.

This frustration at the word though was ignored once he saw that hazy look in her eyes. A pang of sorrow and guilt for causing such a look traveled through him. But, if he was going to help her, he needed to be ready for more of that. It will hurt, but she couldn’t just suffer in silence, especially not if he was going to be more open with her. The word she stopped on... had he... his soul froze and another stronger wave of guilt wracked through him.

He couldn’t remember if he told her that he wasn’t going to leave her. And with all the pushing away and trying to convince her to leave... how much pain did he unintentionally cause her in his vain and foolish attempt to spare her? Her paw pulled away and he sat there, wondering if that was for the best, as he had failed her so miserably.

But no... she shouldn’t be isolated any more than she felt he should. Her last bit cause a small, humorless “heh” to escape him. Troubled was not the word he would use. She was hiding from him... Sans finally let go of her clothes. Using both hands he reached out and took her paw, holding it and softly petting it with him thumbs.

“tori,” he then moved his left hand to her face while still holding her far larger paw in his right hand. “tori... the...” He is voice was catching up on him, “the pure notion of you being selfish is so foreign to me. your feelings of pain have just as much right to be addressed as mine. i see the pain in your eyes now and then, and it hurts me just as it hurts you when i....”

He sighed looking away. “when i do the same... and tori... i am so sorry. all this time i’ve been pulling away, trying to get you to leave.” He felt tears started to enter his sockets. “i’m not leaving you tori... ever.”

If only she knew... if only she knew how many times that flower put them through the same meeting. And how much it hurt each time to hear that lack of recognition in her voice. How each time he tried to convince himself that it was too painful... and yet, each time he was there, knocking on that set of doors, telling the same joke. He gave her as serious of a look he could with his perpetual grin and watery sockets, “i promise.”

(Toriel)

There was a moment when she felt him take her paw, that the instinct to resist, to stop all this, to prevent him from being saddled with the curse she seemed to bring to all who she'd cared for, burned through her. She could justify staying beside him in order to see to his needs, to ensure his happiness and safety, but in the context of the desires of her own pathetically lonely soul. It all seemed in that moment like she'd manipulated him into a corner. But despite it all, she just... couldn't resist. She'd been alone for so long... not even the venomous hatred of her mind could move her to pull away from his offered comfort.

Having her paw gently cradled like that, softly stroked by his bony thumbs, reminded her how very touch starved she'd become... that even that much made her soul do joyful flips within her. But it was the light touch of his hand against her cheek that finally got her to meet his eyelights again. She'd been expecting confusion, discomfort, even disgust at her sudden weakness. But that had been foolish, for her to ever think he'd carry such malice. She and him both were monsters who lived for others, and he'd never look down upon her or anyone for their suffering. He only ever despised himself for that, just as she despised herself.

They truly were a couple of silly fools.

No, all she saw in his eyelights was love and concern. It was only then she realized she was crying, vision blurring as tears welled and spilled silently into her fur. They continued to run on and on as he spoke, all his words settling over her soul. The sentiments taking steps to finally be accepted.

She had not realized how much she'd needed this reassurance, and to hear it from him of all monsters... she feared her soul would give way beneath all the stirred emotion. Then when he apologized, began to tear up in turn and... promised not to leave her... her mind almost couldn't accept it. Sans... hated promises, by his own admission... and yet he still...? Oh, if only he knew... how much those words meant to her. In that moment, she allowed herself to believe that, for once, she may not lose someone she loved after all...

She couldn't speak then, far too choked up by everything, by emotions she'd hadn't let surface in literal ages. So instead, she simply hugged him tight again, holding him to her as though he could disappear any moment, and leaned down to nuzzle her face against the soft material of his hood. She just held him like that for a while, weeping softly, and praying she wasn't dreaming alone in the Ruins like she had so many times, doomed to wake up to a cold and painfully empty house, a cold and painfully empty life. But the feeling of his nearby soul… it calmed her fretful mind, like nothing else ever had. He had always been her light in her darkest moments, and that certainly held true even now.

"Th-thank you..." She croaked out after a while, when she’d found her voice again. “I… I promise it too, Sans… Thank you…”

After the words left her, the pain eased some, and tears stopped. But she allowed herself one last bit of selfishn- no… justified need for comfort and held onto him a little longer. She knew in her soul, that he’d be content with it.

(Sans)

Seeing her tears, Sans lightly wiped them away the best he could with his hoodie sleeve. More came, making his efforts seem useless, but he hoped the action gave her some amount of comfort like it did him. When she pulled him into a tight hug, it was hard to continue that, as he couldn't see where he was wiping as well, so he just pet her cheek softly with his thumb while wrapping his right arm around her into a half hug, hugging her back as tight as he could with one arm.

He felt her soul near him and he nuzzled his face into her neck as he tried to decide if he wanted to do what was on his mind or not. Her words of thanks warmed him, and the promise was something he knew she would keep. Tori had a strong will and had an integrity that wouldn’t let her break a promise, at least not easily. That was part of why he trusted and loved her. They had their differences, but all that was on the surface. Their true natures were so alike...

He was happy she hadn't eased up on the hug yet, as he wasn't ready to let go or be let go of. It was easy to say he loved her... well, not easy, but it left a matter of the question of how much he loved her. That was what he wanted her to know…

While holding as tightly as he could to all his other emotions, he let his soul radiate the love he had for her. This came with some pain and fear along with it, as trying to build his relationship with her was filled with both. From having everything reset so many times, the fear of it being reset was still a lingering along with if she learned the true him she would hate and reject him. All these plagued the emotion of love, but he held back as much of the fear and pain as he could. After all, this moment was her moment. He didn't want it turning back to him. She gave him his moment yesterday and most of this morning. Now was her time for comfort. And if knowing the extent of his love could help...

From his self rejection of the blaster side of himself, he was unaware that half was also sharing love with her. The love that side gave was not weighed down by the fear and pain. There was sorrow though, as it was constantly being held back from her. But, in the end, it was him, just as much as he was himself, just rejected and pushed to the side. But it felt for her the same as he did, even though he didn’t know it. For Toriel, it would feel like two of him were reaching out to comfort her with love.

He tried pushing back this self doubt and focus on comforting her. He wasn't going anywhere unless he was forced by a reset. And even then, he'd find her again like he always did. Though, thanks to the kid being the one in charge of the resets, it wouldn’t be back at the very beginning.

He waited until he felt her relax before removing his face from her neck and shifted a little to look at her. But he kept his hand against her cheek, not yet willing to remove it as he softly ruffled the fur with affection and amusement of the softness of it.

(Toriel)

When she was still wrapped up in him, and subsequently wrapped up in her emotions, she had felt him gently wiping the tears from her face, just as she had for him. It was a gesture that once again touched her deeply, and soothed her further, even when she made the task most difficult for him by holding him the way she was.

Throughout it all, she felt feelings of love from his soul. Warm and wonderful like the heat of a gentle fire. Feelings she never expected to feel from another monster ever again. And they were a focused effort on his part, he wanted her to know through the magic of his soul what he likely would struggle to put into words. It made a good portion of her doubts melt away and she was quick to return the feeling as best she could through all the other emotions besetting her.

She felt loved then, truly, undoubtably. For perhaps the first time in over a century. He deserved to know she loved him too, even if she was too wrought to currently speak the words. Oddly though, when his soul reached out to her own, it felt like two presences were offering her their love and comfort. One was familiar as could be, and the other was more new to her, yet still familiar all the same. Did his other half... care for her as well? The thought was touching and even a little amusing. She hoped so though, for if it was part of him, no matter what he said, she would offer it her love in return.

When he eventually pulled back a bit to face her, she felt at ease with it, especially when he kept his hand there on her cheek. She wiped at her reddened, sore eyes with a paw while moving the other to lightly cover his hand that was on her cheek. She wasn’t sure what to say for a bit, still embarrassed by her sudden emotions. But it was only a small embarrassment, lost mostly to all those feelings of love. From the both of them.

Eventually she found her voice again, dropping her paw from her eyes and re-wrapping it around him in a gentle loop. She had a thought along with it, something she could do, a question she could ask to prove her feelings further. It made her feel nervous admittedly, but being caught up in a happy haze of sorts helped rationalize the thought as she spoke.

"You truly are remarkable Sans." She rasped with a genuinely warm, if weary smile as she lightly rubbed the bony hand that was still against her cheek. "You have made this lonely old soul of mine so very happy and feel so very loved... and I feel as though I could never fully repay you for that. But... I do think I know one small thing that I could do for now at least..." She trailed off, looking deep into the little lights of his eyes and slowly moving her own paw to gently cup his cheekbone again.

"Sans, would you... permit me to kiss you?" She asked, red eyes sparkling just a bit.

The question made it clear that there was no pressure behind it, that he could refuse without any hard feelings. After all, she could always just give him another little nuzzle instead, he made it clear that he enjoyed those. But something within her made her feel like it was a good time to ask. It just felt… right.

(Sans)

When she returned the feeling of love some of his own fears subsided. She truly did love him... he actually chuckled softly into her neck. How this wonderful woman came to feel like that about him of all monsters, he will never understand. But he will do what he can to never disappoint her. When he looked at her again, he marveled at her beauty. Even after crying, she was still radiant to him.

He felt her paw cover his hand. It was far larger, and by all accounts he should feel small... but he didn’t. All he felt was loved. She may be far bigger, able to hold and carry him, and require him to look up to see her face... but he rarely ever felt small around her like he did other monsters. Maybe it was her love, even as a friend, or maybe it was how she brings out the best in him. Whatever the case, all he felt when her paw covered his hand was love and appreciation. When she wrapped him in her arms he leaned into her again. He was so happy... truly happy. It felt weird and yet... the best he has felt in years.

His blush returned as she called him remarkable. That felt like a stretch to him, but he won’t argue it. If she felt he was remarkable, he will try to live up to that. He considered telling her that she had already repaid him, but he was curious to hear what she had thought of. His skull leaned into her touch, enjoying the feel of her paw holding his cheekbone again. He was almost too “drunk” on that blissful feeling to understand her request. It took a moment to sink in and then he looked at her with wide sockets.

... Alphys’ OTP be damned...

He’d text his friend himself to tell her that her ship sunk. He’d even let everyone know that he was in love with Tori. She was asking to kiss him... that sparkle in her eyes added to his marveling of her greatness. The giddiness he felt earlier returned and he fought with his magic to get even one word out.

“sure.” he squeaked, or it as a squeak compared to his normal deep tone.

He was trying to keep himself together, but it felt like a losing battle. Still, he got enough control to say, “would, uh, love that... actually.” His soul was doing flips in his rib cage at the thought. He loved her nuzzles, but a kiss…

(Toriel)

She couldn't help but giggle when he squeaked out his response, looking about as happy as could be beneath all the flusteredness. It felt so good to laugh, and it seemed to let her soul feel all the lighter after all her tears. His giddy acceptance of the offer made her own magic flood with equally giddy feelings, and it also rose up to color her cheeks again.

She hadn't kissed anyone in... over a century. That idea made her soul do little nervous flip flops within her, but she didn't let them manifest into anything meaningful. She had secretly thought about doing this for a long time... she wanted to make it special for them both. Had Sans ever even been kissed before? By a monster with lips that is... It was likely a different sort of experience for a skeleton.

Her love for him made her wish to say of course he'd been kissed before, surely the idea of such a wonderful monster never catching another's eye was silly. But some reasonable doubt as to that continued to linger. Nonetheless, whether he'd been kissed a thousand times before this or this was to be his first, she would make it meaningful all the same. She offered him a warm, grateful smile in response, before giving them both a moment to prepare themselves. As they did,  she drew in a slow, anticipatory breath.

Then, she leaned down and gently eased his face up to her own, closing the distance between them. She closed her eyes and pressed her lips to his exposed teeth, gently holding his skull in place with her paw. A sort of exhilaration lightly flared throughout her soul, as both their magic reached out to each other in turn. Sans may not have been able to "return" the kiss in the traditional sense, but it still didn't feel one sided. His stirred magic met her lips where they touched him, and it was warm and had a spark to it like a sort of electricity flowing through him. It was certainly unlike any other sort of kiss she'd experienced before. It was wholly fascinating and oh so wonderful. It was bliss, pure bliss...

She let it last a good while, and honestly could have stayed liked that until her lungs burned for air, but she didn't want to potentially overwhelm him, especially for their first kiss. (and she had more than enough hope at this point that it wouldn't be their last) So she made her herself gently pull away before too long, enough to meet his gaze and gauge his reaction to it all. As she did, her soul continued to joyfully dance inside her, making her feel happier than she had in literal ages

(Sans)

Her giggle didn’t help settle his flustered feeling. It really just added to it with a mix of him finding her giggle adorable and being both embarrassed and amazed he got her to make that noise. He had been kissed before but... it was more of a surprising thing that happened from Bun at Grillby’s after getting dared to smooch him. It might be an interesting story to tell Tori one day... but the key point was... with skeletons, they need to be aware to actually kiss back.

He had wondered what it would be like to kiss Tori... and now he’ll find out. Her warm smile he echoed back to her as he tried to remember to breath. As she leaned down and, thankfully, direct his face, he readied his magic. So much is done with magic with skeletons, and kissing is no exception. He felt her lips as they touched his magic and teeth. He liked the feel of her soft lips. It was... to be honest, weird, but not in a bad way. The fleshiness of others in contact was so different than himself that he couldn’t help but find it oddly amusing and in this case, highly enjoyable.

The touch of Tori’s paws, nose, and lips in each way she has touched him, before and now, all felt so different and exciting. This time there was the added warmth and spark of their magic meeting and he felt enthralled by this. This was far different than the other kiss he experienced. It sent a shiver up his spine as his magic danced with hers. No wonder the dogi couple were always kissing. This really was a spectacular feeling and sharing of emotions. And... he was happy he was feeling this with Tori for his first actual kiss.

He was almost disappointed when she pulled away, but understood that they had to at some point. “woah,” he could stop himself as he grinned up at her, “we gotta do that again sometime.” Those words popped out before he really thought on what he was saying, but he wasn’t going to try taking them back. His magic felt so bright that he was sure his eye lights were brighter and larger than normal. As for his soul, it had finished the flips and now danced in his rib cage while joyfully fluttering its overall happiness at what just occurred.

Tori looked happy, so hopefully, he wasn’t bad at the kiss. Still... it’s not like he was her first kiss. And as someone without flesh, he hoped she found some enjoyment in kissing him. Those lips felt so soft, kissing such a hard surface... can’t be that enjoyable.

“heh, if it helps, next time i’ll bring flowers since tulips could be better than none,” he offered, using the pun to ask about his insecurities.

As with so many things with them, all moments, big and small, warranted a good pun. This one, and the events that brought it about, made it feel extra special, even if it was reflecting on Sans’ wavering self-confidence in all this. Things for them had just shifted greatly, in a new and exciting direction, but the puns that had helped build their bond in the first place were a good reminder that, as much as things might soon change for them, many things, the important things, would still stay the same. Of that, they were surely not Kiss -staken.

Sans’ other form may be something he feared and even despised, but there was no denying that, in many ways, it was the thing that had finally driven them to take this great next step. How it would continue to affect their developing relationship going forward though, only time would tell.