Work Text:
Paintbrush stared at the blank canvas in front of them, hoping that some idea, ANY idea would come to them. They were standing there for so long that their fellow fiber friend, Fan, was starting to get concerned. "Paintbrush, you've been standing there for like, 20 minutes. What's going on?" Paintbrush blinked, turning to Fan, "I just... I've been waiting for some sort of idea to come to me but I'm drawing a blank." Fan's brows furrowed, "Maybe you need to take a break, you have been drawing all week." Paintbrush looked back at their blank canvas. Sure, they did draw all week, but this was the only way they felt productive. Without the need for a job, there have been plenty of free time. Too much free time. Without something to do, they felt utterly useless. Just another body in the hotel. They needed to DO something. Without it, what purpose did they have living? What right did they have to stand on this very earth without contributing at least the bare minimum to it?
"Paintbrush?"
Fan's voice cut through their thoughts, throwing them back into reality. It was only now that they noticed the tears running down their face. Quickly, they wiped the tears away, hoping Fan didn't notice. "Paintbrush, why are you crying?" Fan asked softly. Paintbrush's fist clenched, looking down at their feet, "Fan... What's my purpose in life?" Fan had to take a moment to think, not expecting that kind of a question. Usually, Paintbrush either kept their feelings to themself or expressed them through tantrums. He couldnt remember the last time he saw them cry. "What do you mean?"
"I mean... what's the point of me living if I'm not benefitting anybody?" Paintbrush's voice quivered as they spoke, more tears pooling in their eyes. "Paintbrush, you don't need to contribute anything... You can just live and be happy..." Fan spoke slowly, pausing occasionally to think on his words. "You can take the time you need to... achieve that happiness." Fan continued. Paintbrush sighed, looking down at their friend. Fan patted the side next to him, signaling them to sit next to him. Paintbrush sat down, and Fan promptly placed a hand on their back.
Paintbrush took in a deep breath, leaning on Fan's side, "I'm sorry about that... I've been feeling... useless lately." Fan patted their back, "That's not true, look over there." He pointed at the tank where Baxter, Paintbrush and Lightbulb's beloved crab, lived. "You've taken good care of him. Without you, who would give him a happy home and food to eat?" Paintbrush thought for a moment, shutting their eyes, "I guess you're right."