Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It was dark in the room today. 4S sat alone, soaking in the silence, and sitting on the bed. Being alive again was strange, but sitting alone, in the dark room, felt normal. It felt safe, like how it had felt while he wasn’t… exactly there. He wasn’t sad, or anything, no, a better word for it was definitely just… Overwhelming. It’s been twelve years, and he was still trying to soak in all of the information that TestTube had filled him in on, and process that neither he, nor his brother, were in any danger now, at least regarding the thing that caused his departure in the first place. There was no problem with the hotel itself, really, it was just… loud. It was often hard to focus, in the few times during the week he had been here, while he was out of the room. Too much was going on all the time. Overwhelming was the right word.

After a while of soaking in the silence, his gaze immediately moved to the door, as it clicked open, MePhone peeking his head in.
“Uh, hey-- um… How's it going today?”
“Things are loud.”
“Right, uh… Do you want to try leaving the room today? Or if you don’t, do you want me to stay with you?”
“You don’t need to. I will be fine here, alone. The silence is favorable.”
“Uh…” MePhone glanced down to the floor for a moment, before looking back up;
“I’m not going to push you to do anything or whatever, but can you try to be a little social? I think it could be a good thing… um, for you to make some friends,” MePhone spoke, almost as if he were nervous to say what he did. 4S didn’t take any offense to it.
“I’ll… try. For you though. Is there any update on the roommate situation? It’s been three days.”
“Ah, well uh, I’ll ask OJ about that, okay?” MePhone smiled into the room, 4S not smiling back. Not because he was upset, or unhappy or anything, just because he didn’t really smile much, his expression remaining neutral.
“One last thing before I head back out, uh, I’ve texted MePad, he and Toilet are going to come visit, so you guys can meet each other, I really think you two would get along,”
“Oh?”
“Yeah, MePad gets along well with just about everyone, really, but I think you two could really enjoy each other’s company,”
“Okay. Is this all?”
“... Yeah, see you later, do you want me to bring you dinner or anything?”
“I don’t… need to eat.”
“I know, I just figured I’d ask, I mean, I don’t either, but I still do anyways,” MePhone shrugged, now leaning in the room's doorway.
“Hm. Thanks for asking, but I’m good.”
“Oh, okay,”
“See you later then.” 4S gave a dismissive wave to MePhone, who frowned a bit, before moving to leave, and close the door.
“Uh, yeah, see you later then.”
And the door clicked shut, 4S letting his posture drop a bit-- not realizing he had become so tense. Things were never this hard before, so why was it difficult now? This was annoying. Maybe he should heed his brother’s request and go out and talk to someone. That might help. Being in this dark room was starting to feel frustrating, anyways.
The moment he stepped out into the hallway, he realized, during the time he had been allowed here-- which may have only been three days, but that wasn’t the point-- he had never been given a proper tour. So he wandered a bit, following one way of the hallway, until he reached the stairs. The safest bet for interaction was probably the first floor, or the lobby or something, so he went down, until he reached what he assumed had to be the first floor, or at least the bottom of the staircase. He didn’t know if this place had a basement or not. He didn’t care. Thankfully, as he stepped out of the stairwell, the hallway was short, before leading out to what he could only assume was the lobby, as that was where it was loudest. He stepped into the room, leaning against the wall as he observed the objects in the room, two objects he recognized from season one, Knife and Pickle, on the couch, playing what looked like a videogame, along with a third object he recognized only from the photo’s TestTube had showed him, as Microphone? He closed his eyes, listening to the chatter, hearing other voices too, he assumed from the kitchen, which was to the side of the room. One of the voices sounded vaguely familiar, while the other did not. He stepped away from the wall, glancing into the kitchen, to see Paper, and… He thinks it was Soap. She was also one of the pictures from the whiteboard. The two of them were chatting away as Soap wiped down the counters. The talking seemed to stop gradually though, as they noticed him, standing in the entryway to the kitchen, having just been staring at them for the past three or four minutes.
“Uh, hello?” Soap spoke first, giving a polite wave as she turned away from the counter to face him.
“Er, hello. Pardon my staring.” 4S spoke, his posture tensing up a bit again. He watched Soap and Paper exchange a glance, before she spoke again;
“Do you need anything?”
“I was just… looking around. I never got a tour, so I’m filling in the blanks myself.”
“Oh! I can uh-- I can get OJ to give you a tour if you’d like?” Paper smiled a nervous, almost anxious smile.
“... Okay.”
“Just wait here then, I’ll go grab him.” And Paper walked off, past 4S. This was awkward. Of course he was making things awkward. He didn’t like that. He didn’t understand why he couldn’t just act like he had before. He had been so confident, and yeah, a little mean, during his time co-hosting season one, even if it was brief, but now he didn’t feel like either of those things. He felt resigned, and, well, intimidated wasn’t the right word. More, well, scared? No. Timid. That sounded right in the moment.
He stood there, Soap clearing her throat, before turning back around to wipe the counter. He just continued to stare for a moment, before turning around to face the rest of the lobby, where the three on the couch were still gaming away, seemingly unbothered by what was going on in the kitchen. Soon enough, OJ stepped out of the hallway, into the main room, immediately glancing over to 4S.
“Ah, um, sorry about not giving the official tour, it totally slipped my mind,” OJ admitted, a bit sheepish as he stepped up to the phone. 4S could tell he was intimidated. Honestly, that was kind of funny to him.
“Of course, how dare you forget to show me around.” 4S deadpanned, OJ stopping in his tracks.
“Joking. It-- it was a joke, yeesh, it’s like none of you have any humor,” 4S waved a dismissive hand.
“Ahaha, uh, yeah, anyways! I guess let's get started?” OJ let out, even more awkwardly than before. 4S internally sighed. That wasn’t the intent of the joke, it really wasn’t, he was just trying to break the ice, but it only seemed to make things worse. That was annoying. So he followed OJ around a bit, learning about the various rooms in the hotel, and when dinner or breakfast, or whatever was usually served, or ready, and other little details about what usually went on, something about occasional comedy shows, or art classes, neither of those things sounding very appealing to 4S. First of all, comedy was apparently not his thing, and he was filled with the urge to destroy, not create, so neither of those things were suited to him. He’d be fine without that though. Eventually the two made it back to the lobby, the tour basically being over.
“Anyways, floors two through six are just rooms for the residents, and the top room is mostly just storage, so there’s nothing really notable up there… So uh, that should conclude the tour-- I just have to hope you’ve actually been paying attention, I can’t really tell considering you were silent the whole time.” OJ huffed out, though not angry, or annoyed, just seeming more exasperated rather than anything else. Oh, 4S had completely forgotten to speak during the tour.
“I was paying attention. Don’t worry.” 4S crossed his arms, unintentionally furthering his intimidating outer appearance.
“Um, well, yeah! That concludes it then, I have to get back to… work, so if there’s anything else you need?”
“Oh yeah, one more thing, who’s been assigned as my roommate?”
“Huh?”
“You said you’d be finding someone to keep an eye on me, did you not?”
“Oh right, yeah, that… also completely slipped my mind… I mean, you seem to be doing fine on your own so far, even if it hasn’t been that long, so I don’t see why you need someone monitoring your every move. That’d just feel awkward, wouldn’t it.”
“I suppose it would. Do you really trust me?”
“I mean, yeah, I don’t see why I shouldn’t at the moment. Nothing’s happened with you yet, which is a good sign.”
“Even though everyone here looks at me like I’m a ticking time bomb?”
“Ah-- um, it’s just-- listen, it’s nothing against you, I can promise that, it’s just some people remember how you were, and are a bit intimidated because well-- you’re you-- ah shit, that came out wrong--”
“No, no. I get it. I’m intimidating. I’m scary.” 4S narrowed his eyes, lowering his sunglasses a bit to stare directly at the other, as OJ tensed up a bit.
“I’m just another object this hotel needs to worry about and not be set off, oh, unless I snap or something. It would be a shame if that happened. If I became violent?” He leaned in a bit, crossing his arms as his frown deepened.
“Listen, just-- this… um,” OJ chuckled nervously, stepping back a bit.
“Okay that’s enough teasing, leave him alone.” MePhone stepped up, having come back into the lobby some time during the tour. He put a hand on 4S’s shoulder, looking at OJ;
“Sorry, he’s just kidding around, I promise,”
“Ahaha, um, right,”
“Yes. Kidding around. Teasing. You just have no humor.” 4S uncrossed his arms, completely dropping the intimidating attitude as he pushed his sunglasses back up on his face to cover his eyes, playing it off like he hadn’t actually been getting frustrated towards the cup.
“See? Like I said, you could use a little humor, OJ,” MePhone let out a small chuckle, clearly nervous himself.
“Yeah. Okay. I’m… going back to my office.” OJ turned, speed walking away from the conversation.
“Let's get you back up to the room?” MePhone looked over at 4S, who was visibly tense again.
“Yes, please.”

“Okay, what the hell was that?” MePhone flopped down on his bed in the room, putting his hands over his screen.
“I… Was frustrated.”
“Gods, I saw that, I’m just glad I was able to play that off like a joke, you can’t just go around scaring my boyfriend-- or the owner of the hotel like that!” MePhone raised his hands out briefly, clearly exasperated, as 4S sat politely on his bed.
“I… I just got you back, 4S. I’m not going to lose you again just because you end up getting yourself kicked out, please, I know you’re trying, but…” MePhone sighed, stifling the rest of whatever he was about to say.
“I… Really am trying.” 4S was growing frustrated again.
“I know, I get it’s hard,” MePhone softened his tone, letting his arms flop to his sides on the bed. “Is there anything at all I can do to help you through this? I… I don’t want you to have to change yourself just for this to work,”
“You say that as if I ever had a real personality in the first place.” 4S scoffed, crossing his arms again, unable to bite back that remark, the frustration in his systems growing.
“Why would you say that? You have a personality--”
“Oh yeah, what is it? What am I like, other than the rage, and anger? What am I, other than the frustration, and the countless hours slaving away training, and fighting, like nothing else mattered, like that’s all I was EVER GOING TO BE!” 4S stood up, raising his voice as his anger bubbled to the surface. MePhone slowly sat himself up to look at 4S, a genuine look of fear in his eyes, his mouth agape a bit, as if he were trying to figure out how to respond, but clearly struggling.
Shit. He had done it now. He had just gotten back, and he was already ruining the one current good thing in his life. He needed a moment to cool off. Still standing, he walked to the door, his pace quick, as he slammed it behind him, heading for the stairs, this time going up. Surely he’d have the time to cool off if he went up to the top floor for a bit. If it was all just storage, he was sure he wouldn’t be bothered. He was sure MePhone probably needed some time to process what had just happened, too. Of course he felt guilty about lashing out like that, but he was just so frustrated. That canceled out the guilt in the moment.

MePhone sat on the bed, still completely shocked at what had just happened, the look of stunned fear he gave 4S before storming out shifting to something more guilty. Shit, why did things have to be so hard. He shook off his nerves quickly, but stayed where he sat. He knew he needed to give 4S some time. That didn’t stop MePhone from feeling bad about this, though.

He paced around the top floor of the hotel, trying to calm his nerves and frustration. He knew he’d have to go back down there eventually, and talk about what he had said, but he was still just so angry. Really, that felt like all he was ever going to be, at this point. He was back, and alive, and he hadn’t changed a bit. He needed to figure out how to fix this. The last thing he wants to do is disappoint his brother, just because of his short temper. This was surely going to be difficult, though.

…

It was much later in the evening when 4S had the courage to return to his, and his brother’s shared room. MePhone was there, leaving 4S to wonder if he had just been waiting the whole time, but as he stepped into the room, and closed the door behind him, he realized MePhone had fallen asleep for the night. He didn’t know if that made him more nervous, or if he felt relieved, but either way, he moved over to flop onto his own bed. As ugly as all the orange, red, and yellow colours were in this hotel, he at least had to give credits to the beds. They were incredibly comfortable. He sat there, laying his back against the wall as he waited for the other to wake up, 4S not feeling tired in the slightest. He took his sunglasses off, placing them gently on the bedside table.
He did end up falling asleep eventually, despite not really wanting to. He had hated the idea of falling asleep lately, the irrational fear of just not waking back up always lingering. But he sleeps anyway.
And sometimes, he even dreams.

.

.

.

All eyes were on him. It was another long, dark hallway, but there was that tangible, seeable feeling of being watched. Observed. By whom, he didn’t know, but he didn’t like it. The hallway was all he ever knew at this point. Long. Never ending, yet it still felt so safe. Secure. The faint red light at the end of it always being a goal he knew he’d never reach, no matter how badly he wanted to.
All eyes were on him, and he felt angry. He needed to destroy, to hurt. To get all of his rage and anger out, but it was all just pent up. None of it was coming out, despite how much he wanted it to. The thought of destruction rang through his mind for the rest of the dream, as he angrily ran towards the light. He was going to reach it this time. He had to.

But he didn’t, rather jolting awake into a sitting position, not even three hours after he had originally fallen asleep. His breathing was heavy, and frustrated, as he got out of bed, yanking his sunglasses off of the bedside table, not even putting them on yet. He needed to go. Somewhere, anywhere but here. He walked through the hotel-- Gods, he hated this stupid hotel, it felt like a maze no matter where he turned, finally making it to the stairwell, and stomping down. He had to go, he had to get out of here. Now. This was something he could achieve, because it was real, slamming the doors to the hotel open with no regard as to how loud he was being, as he walked out into the frankly freezing fall night weather, the chill working to ground him, pricking away at his robotic limbs. His breathing was still heavy when he leaned against the wall of the hotel, putting his head in his hands, as he slid down the wall. He didn’t even notice the other object out there with him, until said object spoke up.
“Rough night, huh?” A gruff voice filled the air, 4S immediately snapping his gaze up to the other object, pulling his hands away from his face. Standing next to him, also sort of leaning against the wall, was Knife.
“Why do you care?” 4S sneered.
“I don’t.” Knife shrugged, moving his gaze from the phone, to the vast distance in front of the two.
“Why are you out here…”
“Well, I’m not having the best night, so I came out here to chill out. It’s not that hard to be honest, y’know.”
4S’s frustration shifted into something else, something much less volatile.
“I suppose we’re out here for the same reason then.” He sighed.
“Figured.” Knife rubbed the sides of his arms, letting out a huff, the air being cold enough to be visible as he breathed out.
4S felt the tension that he once again didn’t notice building, fade away a bit. It was calm outside tonight, the fresh air definitely helping. Maybe he should try to go outside more.
Neither of them spoke, just sitting there, taking in the quiet late night ambience, and such. Eventually, Knife kicked off from the wall, heading for the door.
“Where are you going?” 4S internally cursed himself for how frantic his tone was when he had asked that.
“Back inside. I’m tired.” Though he stopped before he opened the door; “Unless you still want my company?” Knife smirked, almost like he already knew the answer.
“I… wouldn’t hate it if you stayed.” That was basically a yes, wasn’t it?
Knife let out a tired chuckle, before walking back over, sliding down against the wall to sit next to the phone.
“Sure. Suppose I wouldn’t mind staying. It’s on you though if I freeze to death.” Knife shrugged, 4S only rolling his eyes under his sunglasses at this, before the comfortable silence continued.
This was… Interesting, to say the least.
Living again was really weird. He didn’t know how to feel about it right now, but that was fine.
This was calm enough to keep his frustration at bay, even if it was just for the rest of this one single night.

Chapter Text

"I didn't mean what I said." 4S immediately worked to backtrack, hoping it would work, but it didn’t.
"... I think you did, though, you… you really think you're nothing beyond your anger?" MePhone’s voice was soft, and careful, his tone laced with what almost seemed like sadness.
4S looked down, glad his sunglasses were hiding his shame. He said nothing.
"I… I don't know how to convince you otherwise, but you're so much more than your anger, Red. You're my brother. You're a strong, 'i know what I want' type of person, and… and you're not just violent and mean." MePhone moved over to sit beside his brother on the other bed, putting a hand on his shoulder.
"I promise you, you should never have to feel like your anger is what defines you. All of that stuff with… with him, and the training, and… and I won't pretend to know what you went through after I left-- but that's… it's all over now." MePhone shifted a bit, hugging his brother, who sat in silence, and listened. After spending most of the night outside with Knife, he had returned to his room rather early in the morning, to walk in on MePhone pacing, very obviously worried about where 4S had gone.
“I know… It’s just… So hard to feel like things ARE safe. I know I’ve been gone for twelve years, and clearly a lot has changed, but Gods, Blue, I’m still getting used to all of this.” 4S didn’t return his brother’s hug, honestly just not knowing what to do at the moment. “It’s… going to take me a while to adjust. To figure myself out. All I used to be was rage, and anger, because that’s all I was allowed to be with him. Please just be patient with me.” 4S struggled to get his words out. It was hard to speak right now. If it weren’t for this conversation being absolutely necessary, he could probably end up going the whole day without talking. But he couldn’t do that right now.
“I’m willing to give you all the time you need for this, but… I’m scared others might not,”
“Then what’s the problem with me just staying in this room until I do this for myself?”
MePhone pulled away from the hug, giving his brother a sad look; “That’s… not how this works. Hah, uh… That’s something I had to learn myself, honestly, but the rough thing about this is that you kind of have to put yourself out there… Whatever happens when you do though, I’m here every step of the way for you. I can promise you that.”
“... Thanks.”

…

It was two days later when something happened. During those two days, 4S found himself just a little more comfortable with the idea of leaving the room, trying to do what his brother asked, and trying to put himself out there. This resulted in him hanging out with Knife, or at least, just being around him most of the time during these days. 4S felt like Knife was the only object, currently, that he felt comfortable around, well, other than Blue, but that was obviously different. The two didn’t talk much when they actually hung out, rather just having this mutual understanding that they could tolerate each other. That was enough for 4S on those two days. The current day though, they were actually holding a conversation.
“I’m… Confused.”
“Hm?” Knife glanced up from the table, having just been tracing shapes on it with his finger, waiting for anything interesting to happen.
“That… Short one. I remember her from season one, correct?”
“Uh… Taco?”
“Yes. I keep seeing her around. Sneaking out of the hotel while we’re in the lobby, she isn’t exactly sneaky about it. Another thing I’ve noticed is she’s not… Loud and annoying anymore. What happened to that?”
“Ah, okay. A history lesson then, figures TestTube left some things out… I don’t know why she’s been sneaking out lately, and at this point I don’t give a shit, but that loud, obnoxious personality was all some big act.”
“Oh?”
“Turns out she was some massive manipulator, and she was just… using that personality, and Pickle just to get further in the game.” Knife’s expression was casual, though 4S could notice the hand he had resting on the table folded into a fist.
“You’re still angry about this?” 4S raised an eyebrow.
“Like I said, I don’t really care anymore, but she still really hurt someone I care about. That’s something I’m never forgiving her for.”
So Knife was one to hold a grudge. That was interesting. Maybe the two of them had more in common than 4S had originally thought.
“Do you want to find out what she’s up to?”
“Not really.” Knife shrugged. “She’s not my problem anymore.”
“Okay.” 4S stayed, making no move to get up, certainly curious, but not curious enough to actually do anything about it yet.

…

“Well? How's the charting going?” Taco leaned against the counter casually, as if there was no awkward air between her and the vial. TestTube sighed, holding up the journal she had been charting in, holding it up next to her laptop’s screen.
“We have about a month until this thing is near enough to the island for us to get up there-- but that still doesn’t solve the problem of us actually getting up there.”
“Easy, build one of those ships of yours again.”
“That barely got me up there the first time.”
“Well yes, but this time you have a whole month, rather than just one evening. This time, maybe it can even have two seats.”
TestTube rolled her eyes.
“If I’m building another spaceship, I’m not doing it alone. If you want up there with me, you’re helping.”
“Fine, fine. I suppose it’s only fair and whatnot. Though, I’m not exactly competent when it comes to--”
“Don’t even pull that, I know what you can do, Taco. You’re not getting out of this.”
“Alright, it was worth a try.” Taco shrugged, “Suppose we need to figure out what materials we need then. Make a trip to the mainland?”
“If I’m going to the mainland, you’re not coming with me. I’ll take Fan, since he knows about this.”
Taco sighed. “You’re no fun.”
“Only when it comes to working with you.” TestTube placed the journal back down, flat on the desk as she moved to her laptop, opening a document to figure out, and list what she would need.
“Anyways, I suppose I’ll leave you to it? Just get in touch with me when we need to start building.” Taco smirked, kicking off from the counter to leave.
“Yeah, yeah. Just go.” TestTube waved a dismissive hand.
TestTube didn’t like working with her. She really didn’t. It wasn’t like she was evil or anything, Taco was just… shifty, sly, and annoying, but that was the problem. It was like she had this ulterior motive that TestTube just couldn’t place. She claimed she wanted to get up there to find stuff to pawn off, and such, but was that really the case? Yeah, Taco’s track record showed that was a very likely case, but with how she was acting, TestTube was starting to doubt that more and more. She sighed, pausing her work for a bit as she rubbed her temple. This was going to be one long month, wasn’t it.

Thankfully for her own sake, as she was working on this list, Fan came down to visit, this immediately cheering her up.
“Hey TestTube!”
“Hey Fan,” She smiled, looking away from her work again.
“What are you up to today? If it wasn’t anything too important, I was wondering if you’d want to go on a walk or something? Get out of the lab for a bit?”
TestTube glanced over to the list, then back over to Fan. She gave it some thought, before speaking; “Yeah. That sounds good. It’s nothing important, just listing out stuff for the next project. I’ll tell you about it when we’re out of the lab,” TestTube kept her soft smile, getting up from the stool, and stretching out her arms. A walk definitely sounded nice.

…

MePhone paced around his boyfriends office, thinking away, while OJ was sitting down, working on his book, having the free time to do so for the first time in a while. Neither of them talked about it, this not being too big of a deal, but MePhone was going to ask about it eventually. This was not that time, because he was a bit nervous.
“You’re going to wear down my floor, MePhone.” OJ sighed, looking up from his work, at the phone.
“I know, sorry, I just…” MePhone sighs, stopping his pacing, to flop down in one of the chairs. “Nervous.”
“I know,” OJ moved his hand over, offering for MePhone to reach over the desk to hold it, which he leaned forward, taking that offer, scooting his chair a bit closer to the desk so it wouldn’t be uncomfortable.
“I’m sure everything is going to be fine with him, MePhone.”
“I know, I’m sure of that too, but I’m honestly more nervous about MePad visiting again… um, just that silly, annoying fear in the back of my head telling me they won’t get alone, or are going to hate each other and… uh.” MePhone trailed off, his gaze falling to the desk between the two, his expression saddening a bit.
“Look, your brother is incredibly intimidating and such, but I’m sure if MePad could get along with you, with how you used to act, I’m sure even if they don’t really bond on their first meet, I’m sure they’ll warm up to each other eventually,” OJ reassured, rubbing his thumb over MePhone’s hand in an extra bit of comfort.
“... Yeah, I… I uh, sure as hell hope so.” MePhone smiled, a bit of weariness to his expression.
“When are MePad and Toilet stopping by again?”
“Oh, um, I think the plan was this Friday,” OJ pulled his hand away slowly, looking over to his calendar.
“Huh, okay, that’s… uh, two days from now? Okay.” OJ moved back to the desk, taking MePhone’s hand in his own again, the two sitting there while OJ used his free hand to continue writing. The room was silent for a bit, MePhone’s worries mellowing out a bit, as a calm air replaced it.
“You should definitely let me decorate your office.”
“No way,” OJ chuckled lightheartedly, not looking up from his writing.
“Your loss,” MePhone shrugged, OJ still not looking up, but being able to tell he was smiling just by his tone.

…

4S had gotten up to get some air, walking out of the kitchen and away from Knife, exiting the hotel to take some time to himself. He leaned against the wall, like he had a few nights prior, but he remained standing. The cold fall air did well to ground him. To make him feel at peace. This gave him time to think. Timid was definitely not the right word, 4S finally figuring out that ‘reserved’ was a much more fitting term for him. Yeah. That sounded more fitting. Honestly, he was proud of himself for the past two days, relieved that he was able to at least make one connection. Knife seemed cool enough, almost like the personality he was going for, except, well, less angry. Knife definitely seemed to be some sort of angry, but he also seemed to be good at hiding it. Good at keeping it at bay. Maybe it wouldn’t hurt to ask him about it sometime. Of course basing his personality off of someone else wasn’t what he wanted-- from what he saw of MePhone during the time he didn’t remember anything in season one, it was exactly what he had done, and he turned out fine-- or, well… Mostly fine. Yeah.

He headed back in a little bit later. It was afternoon now, and only one object was sitting on the couch, that specifically being Trophy, who he recognized from the photos, and from seeing him around occasionally, while he was out of his room. He didn’t like this individual. He seemed like a massive asshole, and yeah, it wasn’t like 4S thought of himself any better in that regard, but…
“What are you staring at?” Trophy glanced over, looking annoyed with the phone, his tone accusatory. The calm attitude he had kept up while outside was definitely fading now.
“Apparently nothing much.”
“Excuse you?”
“You heard me.” 4S narrowed his eyes. Yeah, he hadn’t meant to stare, but Trophy definitely didn’t need to be an asshole about it… But since he was, 4S certainly wasn’t going to be kind in return.
Trophy stood up now, turning to face him.
“You know, it’s bad enough with MePhone running around, now we have to deal with two of you? Who even thought that was a good idea? One of you is already annoying enough.”
4S’s frustration was growing further. If Trophy didn’t back down soon, well, 4S didn’t know what he was going to do, but he knew it wouldn’t end well.
“Shut up.” 4S sneered at the slightly taller object.
“No, I’m right. You and your ‘brother’ are annoying. I’ve told him this before, so I’ll tell you, too, nobody here likes you, or him. All we’re doing is tolerating you because for some reason, OJ sees something in that fossil.” Trophy put his hands on his hips, his mood clearly much more annoyed than usual today for some reason. Of course he was taking his frustration out on others. Well, he certainly picked the worst possible object to talk shit to.
“That’s enough.” Knife called out from the kitchen, raising his voice as he got up from his seat, beginning to walk over, clearly wanting to de-escalate the situation before it became dire, but he didn’t get there fast enough.
“You’re going to stop talking shit about me and my brother right now.”
“Or what?” Trophy sneered back.
“You’re going to stop, or I’m going to beat your ass.” 4S stepped closer, his frustration and rage reaching a boiling point by now.
“I’d love to see you--” Trophy was cut off, as 4S tackled him to the ground, Knife quickly running up to pull the phone off, but not before he got a few punches in. Trophy scrambled back, letting out a swear;
“What the hell? What is your problem!?”
“YOU’RE LUCKY I CAN’T GENERATE ANYTHING, I’D KILL YOU! IF I HEAR ANYTHING OUT OF YOUR MOUTH ABOUT ME, OR HIM AGAIN, IT’S NOT GOING TO SLIDE.” 4S shouted out, as he struggled against Knife’s strong hold, as he continued to pull the phone away. This yelling, and shouting certainly was loud enough for both OJ and MePhone to run out of the office to take in the scene.
“What happened?”
“This psycho attacked me!”
“You provoked him, asshole!” Knife glared at Trophy, not letting him slide the blame on 4S, even if he had been the one to attack. OJ stepped over glaring at Trophy, then looking over to 4S, his gaze shifting to something more unsure.
“Trophy, just… Get out of here while we deal with this. I don’t want to see you down here for a while, okay-- and uh… Gods, take him over to TestTube’s lab while we figure this out, okay? I’ll come over in a while.” While OJ gave out orders to handle and fix the situation, MePhone stood still in the hallway, looking on with a strained look. 4S glanced over to him, his breathing still heavy and angry as he kept struggling a bit, Knife dragging him out by the arm. The two shared eye-contact for just a moment, MePhone looking away with an expression that seemed to be either guilt, or shame.
The moment the hotel doors closed behind him, he stopped struggling in Knife’s grasp, just letting himself be dragged. He didn’t have the energy for this anymore. The two stopped outside the signature fake tree, Knife letting go of his grip on the other’s wrist, letting him flop down onto the grass.
4S couldn’t help but raise an eyebrow, confused.
“Giving you a moment to cool off. Do you want to explain to me what happened before you have to talk about it with the others?”
“... Not really.” 4S spoke, his tone still clearly frustrated, as he just laid on the grass, unmoving. He hated this. “But I should.” He sighed out, glad his sunglasses hid his eyes. He didn’t want anyone to see him cry. He sat up, facing away from Knife as he took a moment, blinking away his frustration tears, before speaking again.
“He had no right talking about him like that. Claiming the things he said as fact. Why did you restrain me? He deserved everything that was coming to him.” 4S angrily gripped at the grass around him, ripping some of it out to let out his currently very strong destructive energy. He hated this so much.
“Listen. I get it. Trophy is that kind of object where you just want to kick his ass, every time he opens his mouth, but you can’t just do that. You’re trying to not be so intimidating, right? Well that didn’t really help you out at all.” Knife huffed, leaning against the fake, metal tree.
“I don’t care. He deserved it.”
“I know.”
The two of them were silent for a few minutes, 4S continuing to rip out blades of grass around him, this helping just a bit with getting that destructive energy to calm down.
“You ready to go in?” Knife raised an eyebrow, gesturing to the lab entrance as he looked over to 4S, who had stopped ripping up the grass.
“Fine.” 4S’s tone was quiet, and still angry, but much less so than earlier. This had all taken so much energy out of him. He was taken down to the lab, heading to the room he had been told to sleep in, immediately flopping down on the bed, and removing his shades. He’d deal with the consequences later. He didn’t have the energy for that right now.

…

TestTube and Fan had returned to the lab just a little bit before 4S was brought back, only looking on in confusion as he came down, not saying a word as he headed off to the other room, their confusion only growing as Knife landed on the pillow.
“Knife?” TestTube raised an eyebrow, thoroughly confused.
“OJ will be here soon probably, I don’t know about MePhone, but 4S lashed out towards someone.”
“Did he…”
“He didn’t have the chance. It was Trophy, with how thick his head is, he’ll be fine, but it did turn violent.”
“So… He is volatile then.”
“Yes, but to be fair, he was provoked. Trophy said something that really pissed him off. I gave him time to cool down before bringing him in here though.”
It wasn’t long before OJ joined them all, standing up quickly, and dusting himself off;
“Where is he? I need his side of the story,” OJ frowned, looking at the three in the room.
“He went to the room I assigned him as soon as he got down here.”
“He’s not aggressive anymore.” Knife clarified, watching as OJ walked over, gesturing to one of the doors in the hallway, as to confirm if that were the right one. TestTube would nod.
OJ opened the door, peeking his head in.
“He’s… um, he’s in sleep mode, I think.” OJ sighed, closing the door quietly. “I’ll come back later for that then. Um. Knife, I’ll need to ask something of you once we’re out of here.”
“I figure you want me to keep an eye on him?” Knife shrugged.
“Yeah, exactly. Not meaning this wording in a rude way, but apparently someone needs to keep him in check…” OJ sighed, a constant frown still on his face.
“MePhone didn’t want to come down?” Knife crossed his arms.
“Um, no. He’s in our room right now, that’s why I’m in a hurry, I really need to go make sure he’s okay. Just… Just keep 4S here for a while. Okay?”
“Yeah, okay… Once he’s awake again, I’ll talk to him, and get you back down here so you can talk to him. How does that sound?” Knife stared at OJ.
“Okay. Um… See you guys later then.” OJ sighed, before heading for the exit.
TestTube and Fan both turned their gazes to Knife, who just crossed his arms, and leaned on the counter.
“Guess I’ll be hanging out here for a bit.” He huffed out, feeling a bit awkward around the two.
“Er… Um, yeah, feel free to sit in one of the stools, I need to get back to working on something for now, if that’s not too much of a bother,” TestTube chuckled, a bit nervous.
“Yeah okay.” He kicked off from the counter, going over to the stools to take a seat.
This was going to feel like an awkward few hours, huh.

…

OJ rushed back to the hotel, heading back to his and his partner’s shared room. He opened the door fast, but still carefully, as he looked in. MePhone hadn’t actually been in that room in a while, having been staying with 4S in his assigned room, but the moment 4S was dragged out, he ran off in the direction, OJ having to figure this was where he went. He was right, thankfully, seeing MePhone laying on his side of the bed, grasping a pillow. He was on, but completely silent, OJ assuming he was holding onto the pillow for comfort.
“Hey,” His tone was soft.
“I don’t know what to do,” MePhone spoke out, tightening the hold on the pillow, his gaze still forward, at the ceiling. His voice broke a bit, his tone barely louder than a whisper.
“I’m sorry, he’s okay, I promise, but I am going to assign someone to keep an eye on him-- uh, it’s going to be Knife.”
MePhone was silent as OJ moved to lay beside him, grabbing his cork so he could lie beside his partner.
“I know this is rough, I didn’t expect this to happen either, I… ahaha, I guess you were right about keeping him away from Trophy, huh…” OJ tried to lighten the mood, but MePhone’s frown just deepened.
“Um, sorry…” OJ frowned too, moving to hold his partner, effectively spooning him as MePhone moved to be lying on his side, returning the hold. The two sat in mostly silence, OJ just here to comfort, as MePhone sniffled every once in a while.
“I’m sure things are going to work out,” OJ soothed, sliding his hand along MePhone’s back for extra comfort.
“I don’t know if I believe that right now,” MePhone shut his eyes, tightening the hold on his boyfriend.
“I’m sorry.” OJ kept soothing, knowing how rough this must be for MePhone. He just hoped this was the worst it was going to get, because he didn’t know how well any of them would be able to handle it if it got any worse.
Things were rough right now, and OJ just had to hope things wouldn’t take too long to get better.

Chapter Text

4S’s screen flickered on, him of course not getting much rest at all, only having been asleep for about two hours. He wished he could’ve just slept away the rest of the evening, but his systems were clearly not keen on that idea. Once again, he knew he was going to have at least several difficult conversations after this… Though that’s not what filled him with dread. What was making him feel miserable was the fact he had snapped like that. That he had lived up to every little thought all of those residents probably had of him, and had further ruined his chances. Worst of all, he felt like he had thoroughly disappointed his brother. That’s what hurt the most. He sat up, not moving at all after that, not really wanting to move in the moment, or go out and talk to anyone in the lab. Sure, his energy was back physically, but he didn’t feel entirely there, or prepared mentally for a heavy conversation. He flopped back down on the bed with a groan, putting his hands over his eyes. Gods, this sucked. He really didn’t want to leave the room. He wasn’t… Avoiding what needed to be done, he was just… Well, no, he definitely was avoiding it. He sighed, just the smallest bit of frustration at all of this rising, as he sat back up, grabbing his shades. He might as well get this over with.

…

Knife sighed, leaning on the table his stool was placed in front of. It was getting late, and unlike most nights, he was actually getting sleepy… Him staying up really late the night prior not helping that case-- but that wasn’t the point. He was starting to get a bit grumpy.
“M’ going back to the hotel. Just keep him here for the night, I’ll come back tomorrow.” Knife grumbled out, hopping off of the stool. Fan had left about thirty minutes ago, also having been tired, which left him, and TestTube, who of course, was functioning just fine at this late hour. How she does it, he’ll never know, but he doesn’t really care either.
“Ah, um, okay! See you later then,” She waved a dismissive hand, not looking away from her laptop, that she was typing furiously on. Weird. Whatever, he was tired. He could think about it later. He trudged up the long stairs of the lab, immediately opening the exit to be blasted by cold, fall air. He hated the cold. Yeah, it was nice sometimes, but it chilled his metal, and that was usually unpleasant. He’d just have to hurry back to the hotel, excited to wrap himself up in his blanket, in his and Pickle’s shared room. Yeah, that sounded nice. What didn’t sound nice though, was waking up early, just to trudge back to the lab to deal with this shit. Of course, he knew Trophy was in the wrong with what had happened. He was the one who spoke first, and he was the one who said all that stupid shit. Really, what was that idiot thinking, provoking him like that. It was frustrating. He let out a huff, watching his breath materialize, then fade in the cold air, as he stepped up to the hotel doors, entering as quietly as he could in this late hour. Most residents were asleep by now, everyone usually residing to their rooms by now. This was good for him, because he knew for a fact that scene earlier had been seen by quite a few, and everyone had probably been talking about it, and with him getting involved, he didn't feel like answering any questions. So he trudged up to his room, thankfully only having to go up one flight of stairs. He yawned as he opened the door to his and Pickle's shared room, carefully getting into his own bed. He could continue dealing with all this tomorrow.

…

4S stepped out of the room, almost timidly, only to immediately discover nobody was actually waiting for him, 4S quickly realizing-- after checking the time, how late it was. He had been alive for just about a week, and he's already messed up his sleep schedule. Wonderful. The only person in the lab right now, was of course, TestTube, who much like him, didn't seem tired at all. She glanced over as he made his presence known, for once not announcing he was up.
"Oh, hello, uh…" she immediately turned all of her attention to him, 4S knowing that she felt a bit untrusting, considering the details of him being there in the first place.
"I'm calm now. You don't need to be afraid. I'm not going to attack you or anything." 4S huffed out, just a bit annoyed at her thinking this. Despite this lab being a subtle reminder, and her being a scientist, she had done nothing to disprove any trust that had been placed in her. And though he wouldn't say he exactly trusts her-- there were only two objects he actually trusted, but he could tolerate her. That was enough.
"So uhm, Knife told us what happened. He left just a bit ago though, since it was getting late. OJ stopped by briefly, but he said you were in sleep mode, erhm, yeah, both of them will be returning in the morning, OJ wants your side of whatever happened, since I figure he also asked Trophy."
"Great. So he only has Trophy's side of the story. That's going to put a great image on me." 4S's resting frown deepened a bit.
"Ah, well, I'm sure OJ won't be too harsh on you, er, if this was your fault, but… uh… anyways! Back to work for me, feel free to do whatever," TestTube waved a dismissive hand, which 4S took as a sign to go back to his room. He knew he wouldn't be able to go back to sleep, but it was probably better being in there, instead of awkwardly sitting around out here. So he went back to his room, sitting down on the bed. He stared at his hands for a while, flopped down on his back at some point, just staring at the ceiling for the majority of time. Eventually, he did fall asleep, honestly thankfully.

.

.

.

“Are you sure?” OJ raised an eyebrow, a bit nervous.
“Yeah, I want to know what happened, I’m uh… In a much better mood than I was last night, I’m coming with you.” MePhone hopped off the bed, stretching out his arms above himself, glancing back over to OJ.
“Alright, just uh… Let’s grab Knife, and get going then, the sooner the better.” OJ shrugged, taking his cork off, now ready to go.

Once Knife was up and ready to go, the three of them headed out, right back to the lab.
“Oh hey! He’s uh, in his room at the moment,” TestTube clicked onto a different tab from whatever she had been working on as the three landed in her lab. Knife definitely thought that was a bit sketchy, but that didn’t matter now.
“He better be awake this time. I’m not waiting another three hours to get this over with.” Knife huffed, crossing his arms, him and MePhone following OJ over to the right door as he opened it.
“Ugh, okay, you know what, we’re just going to wake him up.”
“Huh, did he go to sleep as soon as he came down?” MePhone raised an eyebrow, his mood surprisingly mellow despite what happened the night prior.
“Yeah, but he woke up, and then immediately went back to his room after we had a brief conversation,” TestTube butted in from the main lab room.
“Oh, okay… There’s no way I’m waking him up,” MePhone leaned on the open doorway as Knife and OJ stepped into the room.
“Why not?”
“Yeah, I’d rather not get my screen cracked.”
“Um…” OJ stopped, turning towards MePhone, a bit nervous, as he was about to be the one to wake him up.
“Plus, I can’t be revived. You guys can,” MePhone shrugged, as if this were casual. OJ immediately stepped back.
“Knife, you do it.”
“What?” Knife shot a glare at OJ.
“Listen, as much as I hate to admit this, I’m fragile. I don’t want to get shattered today, and I’m sure TestTube wouldn’t like having to clean my juice off her floor.”
“Yeah! That would be great if you could avoid doing that, thanks!” TestTube called out again from the other room.
Knife huffed, a bit annoyed. “Gods, fine.” He rolled his eyes, before stepping up to the sleeping phone. He reached his arm out, letting out a shocked noise as 4S’s hand reached up suddenly, grabbing his before he could press the button. He sat up, his screen brightness going up. So he had been awake. Knife yanked his hand away, stepping back.
“If you were awake, you didn’t have to do that.” Knife held his wrist, really having not expected that.
“I didn’t, but it was funny.” 4S smirked. Knife glanced over to OJ and MePhone, both of which were stifling laughs.
“Yeah, yeah, I got caught off guard, but I bet if that had been you, OJ, you would’ve screamed. That would’ve been something to laugh about.” Knife pointed a finger at OJ, not actually angry or anything.
“Yeah, sure, whatever.” OJ waved a dismissive hand, before MePhone lightly elbowed him.
“No, Knife’s right, it would’ve been really funny to hear you scream.” He grinned, amused.
“Oh come on!” OJ elbowed back. Thankfully the mood in the room wasn’t too down yet, but eventually the focus was back to 4S, who shuffled in his spot a bit.
“Okay, okay. We need to get this over with. All I need from you is your side of the story, okay?” OJ stepped back into the room, standing in front of the bed.
“I was coming back inside the hotel, and he started talking to me. He was being annoying towards me, despite never having talked to me before, and he said something over the line, so I put him in his place.” 4S said, a bit grimly. His wording of the events definitely seemed a bit, well, dark.
“I don’t think ‘putting him in his place’ is the best wording for your case.” Knife spoke, leaning against one of the room's walls.
“But that’s just what I did--” 4S raised an eyebrow, a bit confused.
“What did he say?”
“Huh?” He glanced over to MePhone as he had spoken up.
“Trophy, what did he say that set you off?” MePhone frowned a bit.
“... I don’t think I want to say it in front of you.”
MePhone’s frown deepened at this. “So it was something about me then.” His tone was quiet, his gaze falling to the floor in front of him.
“I didn’t say that,” 4S shuffled in his spot again.
“You don’t need to.” That was certainly one way to ruin the mood. MePhone turned, and left the room, heading over to the main area, where TestTube was. He had heard enough.
“Sorry.” 4S didn’t understand what he was apologizing for.
“... Now that he’s left, why don’t you tell OJ. I already heard it, since I was there.” Knife sighed, leaving too, to go check on MePhone. OJ would’ve gone to do that if he were able to, but he still had questions to ask.
“Trophy was saying how nobody in the hotel enjoyed either of our company. I can believe that about me, but saying that towards Blue was cruel. I couldn’t let it slide. How it was only tolerance, and how it was only tolerance because you were involved too.” 4S couldn’t keep eye contact for once, his gaze falling to the floor. He was once again thankful he wore sunglasses.
OJ stood there for a moment, taking in what he had been told.
“What was Trophy’s side of the story?” 4S asked.
“He just told me you guys got into an argument that you instigated, and nothing else.” OJ sighed. “But you make it sound like he instigated it.”
“He said I was staring at him. Or, well, ‘what are you staring at’?” He mimicked the tone he remembered Trophy using, as he leaned back on the bed a bit. “The truth was, I was spaced out. I didn’t even mean to be, but he was aggressive towards me, so I was aggressive back.”
OJ sighed, his foot tapping against the carpeted floor of the room as he thought about this all.
“Listen, I… Gods, okay. Knife is going to be your roommate for a bit. Um, for safety reasons, while you get this anger thing figured out. I think I’m also going to have you talk to Paintbrush at some point too, they’re good at controlling their anger, so I’m sure they could help you out with that. I… You’re going to stay down here though for a few days for the tension at the hotel to go down a bit, okay? Does that sound fair?”
“... Yes.” 4S felt a growing knot in his stomach, an almost overwhelming negative feeling at how familiar this all felt. He knew it wasn’t intentional on OJ’s part, but it was making him feel sick to his mechanical stomach.
“I’m heading out then. I’ll come back down and get you when things at the hotel have calmed down. I’m only keeping you down here because I know the news of what you did probably spread around like wildfire, so bringing you back immediately is definitely going to scare some objects. This isn’t… This isn’t malicious, I promise.”
“I know… Just, before you go, don’t talk about what Trophy said to Blue. I know he’ll take it personally.” 4S looked up at the cup. OJ would nod, leaving now, to go to check on MePhone for himself now.
Yeah. This was rough. He hated this. He really didn’t want to spend the next few days in this lab.

…

It was still the beginning of the day, MePhone and OJ heading out of the lab, but TestTube asked Knife to stay behind, so she could talk to him.
“What is it?”
“I need a favor,” She turned away from her laptop, getting out of her stool, to walk over to a printer in the room as the device whirred away, and a few pages popped out.
“Okay?”
“Yeah, I’d like you to stay in the lab with 4S today? I have to head out to get-- erhm, components… for a project,” She was trying to be sly about it, but it wasn’t working, only making her seem even more suspicious.
“Fine, okay. Do you have anything I can do to pass the time in here or am I just going to be sitting around, and incredibly bored for the next few hours?”
“Ah, well there’s a TV in one of the rooms you can use.”
“I didn’t take you as much of a TV enjoyer.” Knife raised an eyebrow.
“Oh, I’m not, all I ever really watch is documentaries and stuff, but that TV is for me and Fan’s weekly movie night, so we don’t occupy the one in the hotel.”
“Oh. Okay.” Knife shrugged again. “Which door is it?” He headed into the hallway.
“It’s across from the one 4S is in,” TestTube took the papers out of the printer, neatly stacking them together, and then stapling them.
“I’ll be out then! Thanks for this!” And just like that, she was gone. Knife headed into the TV room, immediately caught off guard by how big it was. This was much bigger than the one in the hotel, almost akin to a movie screen, and the couch in the room also looked… much more comfortable. He left the door open, to let 4S know where he was, if he were to leave his room, as he looked around for the remote, switching it on.

4S sighed, soaking in the silence for just a bit, before getting out of bed. He didn’t want to waste his day, even if he were stuck in the lab again now, so he headed out, immediately noticing the other open door, and noises of a TV. he stepped into the room, seeing Knife watching some action flick. Movies, and television were never 4S’s thing, he never really understood MePhone’s interest in media like this, but he had a soft spot for action, and violence based films, getting more enjoyment on how unrealistic most of them were, always making fun of them in his head, or out loud sometimes even-- just to annoy his brother when the two were back at Meeple, during the brief time the two were allowed to use the TV there. Knife glanced over to 4S, who was still standing in the doorway. He scooted over, opening up some space on the couch for 4S, almost as if it were an offer.
Not having anything better to do, he took that offer, slowly walking over to take the seat. He let out a huff as he plopped down, surprised by how comfortable this couch was.
The movie Knife had picked out was interesting. It was about this robot, played by what looked like an mp3 player, and a sidekick, some sort of boombox, trying to avoid getting taken out by this ruthless, almost completely badass hitman villain, who was played by a cassette tape. 4S hated to admit how much the villain reminded him of himself, having to tune the movie out after a while, despite how much he was interested in it, because really, he didn’t want to compare himself to a villain. His thoughts didn’t stop wandering though, recalling how he acted when he was hunting MePhone. His resting frown deepened, Knife seeming to notice his discomfort, as he paused the movie, looking over.
“You good over there?”
4S couldn’t respond, his words feeling like they were stuck. He just sat there, not knowing how to respond.
“... Can’t speak?”
4S took a moment, frustrated that he couldn’t before mustering out a nod. His thoughts had really messed him up, huh. He hated this. He could feel himself tensing up.
“That’s fine. We don’t have to continue this movie if it’s upsetting you.” He backed out of the current movie, scrolling through the streaming service to find something else.
He wanted to say he didn’t care. That it was fine, and he’d just deal with it, but no words came out. He wanted to bolt, and get away, and hide away in the room again, just so frustrated that he just couldn’t do anything in the moment, as he just sat there, his mind still racing with unwanted thoughts.
Eventually, Knife landed on another show, glancing to 4S, before clicking on the show. It was something much more lighthearted, more just on to be idle background sound, but the weirdest thing of all to 4S, this thankfully distracting him from the unwanted thoughts, was the fact that what Knife had put on looked like a children’s show.
After a while, the tension faded again, and he felt like he could move again. Still no noise came out of him though, except for a huff as he leaned back into the comfort of the couch. He glanced over to Knife, who was resting his head on his arm, that was on top of the arm of the couch, his attention fully on the show, giving 4S the time he needed to just relax again. This was weird… But not unwelcome.

…

“I guess MePad’s just going to have to visit him in the lab tomorrow…” MePhone sighed, flopping down on the bed. He wasn’t as upset anymore, but he was still bummed out. He didn’t want to let this ruin his day though, not when it had just started. OJ had led him back to the room, though didn’t intend to stay, actually having work to get done around the hotel today-- and still having to go talk to Trophy again about what he had actually said to 4S. That was going to be a whole annoying process, but it needed to be done, and if Trophy had brought OJ’s name up, it meant he was technically involved.
“Will you be fine?”
“Uh, yeah, I’m not gonna spend the whole day here, don’t worry, I just need time to cool off is all. I’ll probably do some cooking or something with Blueberry if he’s willing today.”
“Okay, if you need anything, I’ll be around, got it?”
“Yeah,” MePhone sat up a bit to smile at OJ.
OJ smiled back; “Love you,”
“Love you too,”
And OJ stepped back out, heading for Trophy and Tissues room. This was going to be a long morning.

.
.
.

“What is it now,” Trophy grumbled, stepping out of his room, closing the door behind him to not disturb Tissues, who was still sleeping.
“I want to know what makes you think it’s okay to talk shit about other residents.”
“Oh, great.” Trophy rolled his eyes.
“This is serious, Trophy. I don’t understand why you constantly act like an asshole, when you don’t have the grounds to be doing that.”
“Listen, okay? I was having a shitty day.”
“So you took it out on someone who’s had a history of being violent? Are you kidding me?” OJ crossed his arms. He hadn’t meant to be so aggressive, but he was definitely angry about what 4S said Trophy had said.
“I get it, okay? I made a mistake. So what? It’s not my fault he physically assaulted me.” Trophy scoffed.
“You literally provoked him, from what I was told.”
“I literally said I made a mistake. Why am I the one being punished here?”
“Nobody is being punished. I’m just trying to get to the bottom of this.”
“If I just admit this is my fault, or whatever, can I just go? I have a morning jog I need to get to.”
“It’s like you’re not even trying to take this seriously. Trophy, what you did was stupid, and you need to realize that.”
“Gods, OJ, I already do! I’m an idiot, okay! I get it! You don’t have to tell me several times!” Trophy raised his hands, exasperated. OJ just stepped back, and sighed.
“I don’t want you talking to him at all when he comes back to the hotel.”
“Fine enough with me.”
“I also want you to apologize to him AND MePhone for the shit you said.”
Trophy rolled his eyes. “I’m not even wrong, though. I still stand by what I said.”
OJ glared at the taller object, Trophy’s own expression of annoyance dropping as he realized he had once again screwed up.
“Do you know how many complaints I get about you on a monthly basis, Trophy?”
“What does that have to do with any of this--”
“I don’t care if I’m being petty right now, but you better get your shit together. If I hear another word out of your mouth about either of them in a negative way, or if I get a single complaint about you until you actually apologize, you’re out. I’m not kidding around.” OJ clenched his fists. He hadn’t gotten this angry in what felt like years, honestly surprised he had this in him.
Trophy seemed surprised too, immediately dropping his cocky, mean attitude.
“Gods, fine. Okay.” Trophy glanced to the side, a bit nervous now by OJ’s threat.
There were a few beats of silence from both of them, before OJ took a deep breath, turning away.
“I’ll be going now.” He huffed out, collecting his temper.
He had to get some work done, anyways. He didn’t want to waste any more of his time towards this than he needed to.

Chapter Text

TestTube was gone for the majority of the day, leaving Knife stuck in the lab much longer than he would’ve liked. Sure, he didn’t have plans, and hanging out, or well, keeping an eye on 4S wasn’t the worst task in the world, it was just… A lot less thrilling, than say, hanging out and gaming in the hotel.
Eventually though, both TestTube AND Fan entered the lab, with… several crates of what looked like industrial material. TestTube seemed to be faring just fine with carrying the few crates that had been dropped down into the lab over to the table in the room, but as Knife walked out of the television room to see who was there, Fan was struggling, so Knife went up and took the crate from him, putting it with the other ones, and raising an eyebrow.
“What, are you building another spaceship or something?” Knife joked, looking at TestTube, who froze in her spot.
“Ahaha, erhm… uh, you didn’t snoop, did you?”
“No, but guessing by your reaction, I’m sure I’m right?” He crossed his arms, a bit intrigued now.
“Well you see, uh… Yeah.” TestTube shuffled awkwardly in place, looking to Fan for a bit of help. He just shrugged in response, also unable to think of an excuse, as he walked over to the crates, digging something out from one of them. It was at this time that 4S also stepped out of the television room, to see what was going on.
“Space travel. Yes. That’s it, I mean, who wouldn’t want to go to space!”
“Haven’t you already been?”
“Ah, well, I’ve been to mars, but that was the extent of it,” Fan piped up with a smile, retrieving a small bag from the crate.
“Just er-- think of the possibilities! Space travel!”
“Well you’re really set on this excuse, and I don’t really care enough for the real answer, so whatever.” Knife shrugged, before heading for the exit door, looking over to 4S who was leaning on the hallway entry-way, completely silent still.
“Anyways, I’m going back to the hotel. Next time you have me stay here maybe don’t be gone the whole day? You’re lucky I didn’t have plans.” He wasn’t actually annoyed or anything, just still bored.
“Ah, well see you around then!” TestTube smiled towards Knife, who just left without another comment.
“Thanks, by the way for helping me out with the shopping, Fan,” TestTube turned to Fan, giving him a smile.
“Yeah! Of course,” He huffed, stretching out his hands, while still holding the small bag. This was when 4S made his presence known, though unintentionally, as he shuffled in his spot. TestTube looked over and jolted a bit, not having heard him come out of the room.
“Ah! Oh, you’re here! Right, of course,” TestTube let out an awkward chuckle.
4S was still silent, figuring he just wasn’t going to be vocal today, which was fine. The silence in the air was a bit awkward, before TestTube coughed into her hand, and turned her focus back to the crates.
“Oh yeah! I got you something,” Fan smiled, also looking over at 4S now, stepping over with the bag in his hand;
“Don’t take this the wrong way but uh, as the number one II super fan, I’ve picked up some insider knowledge-- totally not having to ask MePhone or anything-- and I saw this while we were out and uh-- Yeah, I thought it would be a nice gesture,” Fan let out an awkward chuckle, not making eye-contact as he held the bag out, 4S uncrossing his arms, curiously taking the bag, and peeking in. Oh. This was a gift, wasn’t it. He glanced up to Fan, who shuffled in his place, almost nervous. 4S still said nothing. He wanted to thank Fan for the thought-- and yeah, this was a nice gesture, but the words didn’t come out. He would just nod, and take the bag back to his room, hoping that didn’t seem too rude as he carefully shut the door behind him. Now in his room, he leaned back against the closed door, sliding down to the floor as he took the item out of the bag. It was a hello kitty plushie. He stared at it, examining it from every angle possible, wondering if this was some sort of trap, or if Fan got him this out of pity, or to be able to make fun of him, or-- well, no. From what he’s seen and heard about Fan, he didn’t think he was the sort of object to do something like that. So for once, he decided to let himself take this at face value for what it was, a genuine gift that he had put thought into. He discarded the bag, standing himself back up, and walking over to his bed. He flopped down, holding the plush doll close. This was odd, but he appreciated actually being able to enjoy something without being judged, or scolded for it. Of course, he wasn’t going to tell anyone about this, he wasn’t going to risk getting laughed at by anyone at that hotel, just hoping Fan wouldn’t tell anyone either about his supposed enjoyment.
He didn’t have trouble falling asleep that evening.

.

.

.

He woke up in the morning, definitely feeling like his mental funk from yesterday had faded. He placed the plushie down gently on the bed, and put on his shades, ready to step out into the main room. He could hear voices from out there, figuring it was probably Knife, or OJ coming back to check up on him, but as he stepped out, he noticed it was Taco, that much shorter, shady object he had been told about. Their conversation came to an immediate hush as he clicked the door shut, stepping out into their view.
“Ah! Good morning, 4S, I’m just uh, we’re… doing research! Yes. If I recall, MePad is still visiting today, so I’m sure he and the others will be coming by sometime later today--”
“So this is where the short one’s been sneaking off to?” He turned to face Taco.
“What?” she raised an eyebrow, not realizing she had been being observed.
“You keep sneaking off. You are far from subtle.” 4S leaned on the wall, crossing his arms. “What are you up to then? Space travel?”
Taco glanced up to TestTube, raising a judgemental eyebrow at the taller object, who just sighed, and rolled her eyes.
“We are technically building a ship-- that wasn’t a lie, but it’s… for something else.”
“You made that obvious last night.”
“Okay, I get it, I’m bad at lying and making excuses, I don’t need you two, and Knife judging me for not being an easy deceiver.” TestTube huffed, a bit annoyed as she got up from her stool, walking over to the crates that had at some point been moved to the floor.
“How are you planning on building a ship with such little space?”
“Oh, we’ll be building it on the surface, but I’m still waiting for some other components that I had to order online to arrive, before we can start.”
“So… that doesn’t answer my first question. What is this ship for?” 4S kicked off from the wall, stepping over to the laptop
“Ah! Um! I don’t think you want to know--” TestTube turned back around, trying to get back to the laptop to shut it, but she wasn’t quick enough, 4S skimming the open document, and reading the title. Oh.
“You’re going to Meeple.”
The tension in the air that materialized was thick, as TestTube stopped in her tracks.
“Suppose we can’t hide it now, yes. We are.” Taco seemed unbothered by this, hopping off the stool she had been sitting in. 4S turned to look at TestTube, who was looking intently on 4S, trying to figure out his reaction to this information, but unhelpfully for her, his expression remained blank, and unfaltering.
“I-- um, it’s for information collecting-- at least, in my sake. There’s a lot to learn from what documents and blueprints are probably up there, and I just… um. Don’t tell MePhone.”
“I wouldn’t think of it. I’m going with you then.” 4S leaned against the counter.
“What?”
“I need to… Retrieve something from up there anyways. I’m going.”
“Are you… sure you can mentally handle returning there?” TestTube shuffled in place a bit, before sighing, and turning back to the crates, pulling a few items out.
“Yes. It’s not like I still care about what happened, anyways.” He lied, his usual tone, and posture thankfully making his lie not so apparent.
“So he has to help build the ship too then, right?” Taco raised an eyebrow.
“Only if he wants to,”
“If I have the time, I can help. I don’t know rocket science, though.” 4S shrugged.
Taco just sighed, once again realizing getting out of helping of course, was impossible.
“Anyways, Taco, if MePad and others are stopping by, I think you should make your exit before they come.”
“Understood.”
And Taco left.

.

.

.

They didn’t actually come down to the lab, rather, Knife was sent down to retrieve 4S, and bring him up, TestTube silently thankful that it wasn’t going to get crowded down there, so she could continue doing her own thing.

4S was led to a hill, where MePhone, and assumedly, MePad sat. He was definitely a bigger model, both in height, and width. 4S couldn’t help but wonder what his practical purpose was, but he obviously wasn’t going to blatantly ask that. As he walked up to the two, he lowered his sunglasses a bit, looking up at MePad with a raised eyebrow as he stood up to greet him.
“Hello! I’ve heard a lot about you, It’s very nice to finally be able to meet you,” MePad started, giving a look that conveyed he’d smile if he could.
“... Nice to meet you too.” He said, to be polite, his tone hopefully not seeming to rude or anything. He sat down in the grass across from his brother and MePad, sort of fiddling with the grass around where he sat, as MePhone attempted to start a conversation between the two.
“So, what have you been up to, MePad?” He asked, thankfully not bringing up anything that had happened yesterday, or the day prior. He wondered if he had already told the other about it, or if he didn’t need to, or if-- no. No, he wasn’t going to let his thoughts get away from him today.
“Me and Toilet were staying somewhere for a bit, actually, we may have found a place where we can just be ourselves finally,”
“That’s great to hear,” MePhone smiled.
4S still just sat there, awkwardly.
“What about you?” MePad asked, directed towards the both of them.
“Oh, the usual, uh, nothing really going on with me,” MePhone shrugged, and then all attention was on 4S.
“... I have been up to nothing.” He said, mentally facepalming for how lame that made him seem. Yeah, he had technically made plans, but he wasn’t about to tell two other Meeple products-- no, not products, they weren’t products. He hated how he still thought that way about himself, and the others. They were living, sentient objects. Not products-- but… the point was, he certainly wasn’t going to tell them, especially MePhone, that he planned on going back up there. It took him a moment to realize, and snap out of his thoughts, to see them both still staring. Shit, he had totally spaced out again. “Ah, but er… I’m sure I’ll have more interesting things going on once I’m back in the hotel.” He shrugged.
“Of course, it’s fine to not have anything going on, thankfully not everything needs to be exciting, or grand, so I get it,” MePad glanced away. 4S couldn’t help but notice how none of them were very good at keeping eye-contact. 4S’s attention fell solely to the grass he had been idly ripping up from the ground, the other two also seeming to notice this.
“May I ask something?” MePad spoke again, 4S looking up at him briefly, giving the bigger device a nod.
“How does it feel to be alive again? I’m genuinely curious, after being… out of it? For so long,”
“Er… Well, it’s… different. I’ve been plucked out of my original device, and put into this one-- and I suppose I’m… I’m fine with being here, but it’s odd. All of this has been strange, and…” He paused for a moment, trying to stifle the rest of what he wanted to say, but he couldn’t, it just seemed to slip out; “and I don’t think I’m adjusting very well. I don’t know if I ever will.” If the awkward air around the three hadn’t killed the mood, this certainly did.
“That’s… Unfortunate to hear,”
MePhone frowned, not saying anything, his gaze anywhere but at the other two. Yeah. He had disappointed his brother again, hadn’t he. 4S couldn’t help but curl in on himself a bit, suddenly growing incredibly conscious of how badly this seemed to be turning out.
“Sorry. I’m… I should go.” 4S stood abruptly, not giving the two time to react as he turned back in the direction of the lab, speed walking away.
“Wait, 4S--” MePhone called out, but he didn’t wait, rather still making his way away. Gods, of course this turned out poorly, what was he thinking? MePhone’s frown deepened. He didn’t know what to do.

…

“I’m sorry, I didn’t intend to kill the mood,”
“No, it wasn’t your fault, MePad, don’t worry about it, okay?” MePhone gave him a weary smile. The two of them had returned to the hotel, and were now in the room MePad and toilet had been allowed to stay in.
“I just… He really is having a rough time, and I feel so… Helpless, because I want to do something, but I-- I just… I don’t know what to do. He’s trying his hardest, and I- I know that, and I want to believe that’s enough, but Gods… I’m scared it won’t be.” MePhone slouched down on the bed, his hands in his lap as his legs hung off the side of the bed, his gaze locked onto the carpeted floor below the beds.
“This… certainly is rough. Would you like for me to stay for a while? To see if I can help?”
“You… You don’t need to.” That was MePhone’s way of telling him he didn’t want to have to burden MePad with this.
“... Okay,” MePad sighed, leaning against the wall his bed was sat against.
It was silent for a while.
“I should probably go talk to him now, he’s probably had enough time to cool off, right?”
“Hopefully so. Good luck,”
“... Thanks.” MePhone got up from the bed, heading out. He hated how most of the conversations he had been having with his brother after returning were heavy, and hard to have. They were necessary, and things that had to be talked about, but it didn’t make it any easier. He didn’t like this at all.

…

4S didn’t go back to the lab, rather walking through the forest a bit. He needed time to himself, and sitting inside that honestly very cramped lab, the same lab that reminded him of things he didn’t want to think about-- was not something that sounded good. So he kept walking for a while, eventually resting up against a tree. It was peaceful out today, the fall weather, despite nearing winter, was not so cold today. He honestly wished it was, because maybe then the chill could help ground him, and he wouldn’t feel numb. But here he was, hiding away in the middle of the woods, feeling nothing at all.
After a bit of sitting there, he started receiving texts-- forgetting completely that was a feature of his, not having thought about it for… well, a really long time, to say the least.
‘Where are you, TestTube said you never came back to the lab’
‘Can we talk?’
‘Please, are you okay?’
All texts from MePhone. Despite tone not being something that conveyed through text well, he could tell MePhone was incredibly worried. Great. All he had been doing lately was hurting his brother. The numbness was replaced with overwhelming shame.
‘I’m fine. In the woods. Needed air, time to self.’ he summed up, ignoring how his hands shook, and how several of those words were auto-corrected.
All he was doing was messing things up. Making things worse. This felt awful. He had cried once before during the time he’d been back-- though those were frustration tears, it wasn’t the same as the overwhelming sad feeling that washed over him. He tossed his shades off to his side, moving his hands up to cover his eyes, as he stifled sobs.
‘Where in the woods, can you turn on location? We really need to talk,’ And as much as he wanted to shut it all out, and not involve anyone, it was so overwhelming, so for once, he acted on emotion, rather than twisted logic, doing as asked as he switched his device location on. He sat there, shaking, and crying alone for a bit, curling in on himself, his knees close to his core. Eventually, the sound of footsteps broke the silence. He didn’t have to look up to know it was MePhone. For once, his brother said nothing, standing for just a moment to process what he had walked up on, before kneeling down, and pulling his brother into a hug.
“I’m sorry,” 4S choked out through sobs, unable to do anything but apologize for this. For everything, really.
“No, no, it’s okay, I promise,” He couldn’t see MePhone’s face, but he could hear his voice waver, it was clear he was also emotional at the moment. 4S once again, acting fueled on his emotions in the moment, returned the hug, crying into his brother. He hated this. Being so vulnerable. So transparent, and scared about everything, but he just couldn’t help it. He couldn’t hold any of it in anymore. Everything had been hurting so much being held in, it had to come out eventually. It was so scary, but as he cried, and held onto his brother, like if he let go, they’d both be ripped away from each other again, the fear, and frustration, and everything seemed to wash away, leaving him even more vulnerable, and open in the moment.
“I’m sorry.” He let out again, his voice a bit more hoarse now, as he had been crying for a while now.
“You don’t have anything to be sorry about, it’s okay, you’re okay.” MePhone soothed, using the comforting words he had learned to use from OJ, hoping they’d work for his brother, as they had worked for him, too. Eventually, the crying died down, leaving nothing but silence between the two brothers, no other sounds filling the air, other than an occasional sniffle.
There were so many things unsaid between the two, but there was an understanding. Despite how hard all of this was, how difficult they knew it was going to keep being, they needed each other. That no matter how hard it was going to get, neither of them were going anywhere. Not now, in this moment, and certainly not any time in the future.
Things were going to be okay eventually, even if they very much weren’t now. That was the understanding, that they’d just have to get through these rough patches. That they’d do it together. Because that’s all they could do.
That was enough for now.

…

It was around afternoon when the two made it back to TestTube’s lab, 4S having made sure he didn’t forget his shades in the woods. The two stood outside the entrance for a few moments.
“OJ said he was going to let you back in the hotel tomorrow, he and Knife are setting up the rooming arrangement today,”
“Oh. Okay.” 4S couldn’t maintain eye-contact. There was no awkwardness between the two, it was just usually hard for him, and being emotionally exhausted, he didn’t have the energy to try. Honestly, a nap sounded nice right about now.
“Will you be fine?”
“I… don’t know, but I think I’m going to take a rest.”
“Okay, uh… Please, if you need anything, don’t hesitate to text,”
“... of course,” 4S would nod, pressing the button on the not so hidden tree entrance, watching the hatch open up.
“Talk to you later then?”
“Yeah, of course,” MePhone gave a weary smile, as 4S hopped down, the hatch immediately closing behind him. He stood there for a moment, before taking a deep breath, heading back to the hotel. Things were hopefully going to be okay. He just had to hope to the Gods 4S would stop bottling in his emotions. From experience, it was never fun when it all came out, hoping 4S would realize that now that it’s happened to him. MePhone took another deep breath once he was outside the hotel. He had been gone for most of the noon, just hoping that nobody would have been worried about him during the time he was unreachable. Right now, he just wanted to distract himself, and calm down, so he figured he’d go hang out with Knife and OJ while they were figuring out the rooming situation. Yeah, that didn’t sound like too bad of a way to spend his afternoon.

Chapter Text

4S carefully placed the plushie back into the bag he had received it in, making sure it was subtle enough for nobody to question it as he stepped out of his assigned room in the lab. OJ had come by early in the morning to lead him back to the hotel, and this was the only thing he had to take with him back there. Of course, he wasn't just going to carry it out in the open for everyone to see. He wasn't going to let go of that intimidating facade just yet-- or well, it wasn't really a facade when he really was just plain intimidating, but he didn't need the residents of the hotel to have something to make fun of him for, or to think he was vulnerable. The only object he was going to allow himself to open up to was MePhone, and even he wasn't going to be told about Fan's gift. He was already going to have a hard enough time hiding it from his new roommate, and though based on the other day, when they spent time together watching a kids cartoon, he didn't think Knife would judge. He still wasn't going to take the chance just yet though. The walk back was mostly silent, though as they approached the hotel, OJ spoke; “I’ve personally told Trophy not to bother you, or MePhone, so you won’t have to worry about him, I… I also ‘advised’ him to apologize for what he said, but I don’t know if he actually will. So if he does approach you, or MePhone, just hope it’s to apologize, and not start anything else. If he tries to start anything, I will be kicking him out.”
4S would nod, holding the bag to his side as OJ pulled open the door, stepping a bit to the side, to hold it open for 4S, who stepped in.
“Your room is the same one you were staying in before, uh, except now Knife is staying with you for the time being. We’ve already discussed that, so you understand why… so that should be about it, just… Try to stick around Knife please?”
“Okay.” His tone conveyed no emotion, making him seem majorly uninterested. Really, the constant switching between two locations, giving him little time to actually settle was leaving him a bit overwhelmed, but he wasn’t going to say anything. He was just going to deal with it, because that’s all he could do. The first day he was back was completely uneventful. Another day just spent in the room, adjusting to the new surroundings-- or, well they technically weren’t that new, he had already been in the hotel before, of course, but it was still something he had to get used to again at the moment. The second day back, he was stuck with knife for the majority of the day, him being the one assigned to keep an eye on him-- and well, Knife was definitely not a fan of the idea of being stuck in the hotel room all day, so the two were on the couch in the lobby, 4S scrolling through various websites, as Knife was gaming with Pickle. Knife had offered 4S a controller, but he declined, not seeming very interested in what looked like a racing game. That, and he didn’t want to get angry if he lost, or end up breaking a controller, or at worst, the TV. he didn’t want to get on Knife's bad side for ruining a gaming session. He paused his internet searching for a moment, a solid thought crossing his mind with an interesting question to himself; why did he care so much about what Knife thought? He certainly didn't give a shit about the utensil during the time he had originally been around, so what changed? He had to wonder if it was Judy the kindness he had been shown, or if it were something else. Would he feel this way about anyone who was nice to him? What was different about Knife specifically? That thought bothered him a bit, as he ignored the way his systems seemed to heat up a bit. He could dive deeper into that later. For now though, he returned to his home screen, as MePhone stepped over, leaning against the arm of the couch.
"Do you want to come out today? Me, MePad and Toilet are going on a little day trip, was wondering if you wanted to get out of here? Or… uh, try to get along with MePad again?" MePhone added on that last part, his tone a bit awkward.
"I appreciate the offer, but I'm fine here. I have to meet with Paintbrush today, anyway."
"Oh, uh, right, good luck with that then," MePhone shrugged, trying to pretend like he wasn't a bit bummed out by this, but not in a 'this will ruin my day', but more of an; 'oh well, I hope you say yes next time'.
"See you around then," 4S turned his focus to the TV as MePhone made his exit, just watching Knife and Pickle play their game. Honestly, he was dreading having to meet with Paintbrush, for several reasons, but they knew it was necessary, and they apparently could help with figuring out anger problems, which was exactly what 4S needed. He’d just have to get through this, and then he would be fine… Hopefully. Deep down he knew this wasn’t going to solve all his problems, but he had to hope it would help solve most of them.

…

Paintbrush shuffled awkwardly in place. They, and Lightbulb were in the art room, probably because it was the most comfortable space for Paintbrush, waiting for 4S to come in. They were nervous, of course they were, they were the one that technically killed them-- or, well, downgraded was the term, but kill seemed much more fitting due to the finality of it all. It’s definitely an uncomfortable thought, having to meet with the object you technically killed, just to figure out anger management stuff. Of course, when OJ asked them, they accepted the offer, because well, it’d be a bit selfish if they hadn’t. Paintbrush had heard about what happened between him and Trophy, and well, if they said no, after also having been the type to lash out violently with their own anger, what would that reflect upon them?
They were pacing. They knew that was a nervous habit, but they were doing it anyways, only stopped by a hand on their shoulder. They glanced back to Lightbulb, who smiled at them, her sunshine smile, that definitely soothed their nerves a bit. They smiled back.
“Y’know, I can stick around while he’s here, if you need emotional support,”
“Yeah, I think that could help, I- I mean, I’m not like, ugh, I don’t know how to word it, I’m just…” Paintbrush put a hand up to their face, covering their mouth for just a moment, before lowering it again.
“Nervous. I don’t know,”
“I mean, I get it, I’m here though, and hey! I’m sure it won’t be that bad, and uh-- if things do start getting bad, I’m here! I’m great at defusing situations.” Lightbulb gave a pair of finger guns, Paintbrush letting out an amused huff at this.
“Yeah,” It was silent for a while, a comfortable silence between the two, as they waited. Eventually though, it was the assigned time.
Another very real fear that surfaced, as 4S walked through the entrance to the room, Knife stepping in behind him, though not fully entering as he leaned against the door frame, was that, oh Gods, what if 4S reminded them of how they used to be? Would they be able to stifle the shame if that feeling were to come, and still help?
This was going to be difficult, for both of them.

…

“So what’s the plan?”
“Erh-- I didn’t actually think about what we were going to do, I just thought It’d be fun to go on a day trip…” MePhone chuckled awkwardly as the three stood on the outskirts of the island, trying to come up with an idea for the day.
“Have either of ya’ ever been bowling?” Toilet piped in, thinking they had just suggested the best thing ever, except, for well--
“Unfortunately, neither of us have arms, Toilet.”
“That never stopped me!”
“Well I think it’s stopping MePad, so bowling is probably a no…” MePhone put a hand up to his face, clearly thinking.
“We could always go shopping or something,”
“And leave me to carry all the bags? No way… That, and places like that are way too crowded.”
“Well we can’t exactly do anything food related either…” MePad sighed. They really should have figured something out BEFORE deciding to go, but it was too late for that now.
“We could just figure it out while we’re there, y’know, wing it?” MePhone shrugged. “As long as we’re back before dinner at the hotel, I was going to try to convince 4S to actually eat something for once,” MePhone tapped his foot against the grass, the other two thinking about his suggestion for a moment.
“I suppose there would be no harm in ‘winging it’, so I’m fine with that.”
“Yaay! Plan made!” Toilet hopped, happy that they had finally decided on SOMETHING, at least.
“Technically a lack of a plan, but yes,” MePad piped in, before teleporting the three of them to the mainland. This was hopefully going to be a nice day, and a good distraction from the past few for MePhone.

…

“Okay, so what do you know about anger management? Do you have any skills, or things you’ve learned on your own time to uh, keep your temper down?”
“... No.” 4S sat politely in the stool, ignoring how uncomfortable it was compared to the ones that TestTube had in her lab. Unlike the ones there, these stools were metal, and didn’t have a cushion. Oh well, though, that wasn’t what he needed to focus on-- he quickly brought his thoughts back to the topic on hand. Paintbrush stifled a sigh at his answer.
“Okay, well, that’s what we can start with then. What do you usually do when you get angry?”
“I lash out. I keep making it everyone else's problem.”
Well, at least he was being honest.
“And that’s definitely a problem in itself. Hm. Okay, well first things first, we should start with figuring out what triggers your anger, and what you feel when you know you’re getting angry. Can you explain, and we can try to talk through it?” Paintbrush shrugged, casually sitting on the stage in the room, their legs dangling off the side of it.
“When I get angry, it’s… well, normal reasons to get angry, right?? I don’t know why I need to explain how getting angry works--”
“Okay, well that’s not the answer I was looking for, but listen, we’re trying to get into specifics. Talk me through you getting angry, please?” Paintbrush raised an eyebrow, a bit confused at his initial reply.
4S let out a huff, before speaking again; “I get angry when someone does something to piss me off. That’s the reason anyone gets angry. When I feel myself getting angry, I notice how tense I am, or how my voice changes in tone.” And he gave a perfect example, doing both of those things, completely unintentional, as he was just slightly frustrated with the brush’s approach to all of this. It felt patronizing-- even if that wasn’t the intent.
“Okay, well, just take a moment to think about that. Take a moment to uh-- breathe, and reflect.” Paintbrush glanced to the side. This felt incredibly awkward.
4S was frustrated. As he listed off how he usually felt when angry, he came to this realization, and as much as he wanted to be mean, and snarky, he didn’t have the energy. That, and he wasn’t about to lash out at Paintbrush of all objects. He was still grateful for this-- and for them being willing to downgrade them to save his brother, so the last thing he wanted to do was get angry at them. They were trying their best, anyway. He’d just be an asshole to not go along with it. He did as told, taking a deep breath, his posture thankfully loosening as he got rid of the tension. Honestly, he was surprised that it worked.
“Okay, now that we’re calm again, I’m going to start with some ways you can try to control, or calm your temper. I’ll write a list down for you before you head out later, but for now, I’ll state some tactics, and we can talk through it and decide which ones you think would work best for you. Okay?”
“Okay.” 4S would nod, listening intently as Paintbrush listed off things, the two of them having a discussion. In the background, while this anger management thing was going on, Knife was sitting on a stool by the door, and Lightbulb was off to the side, painting something that 4S couldn’t see.
Paintbrush and 4S discussed a lot of tactics, but only a few of them really felt realistic for 4S. Those few tactics being; taking time to breathe, investing in something to take his physical anger out on, such as a punching bag, rather than letting all of that out on a living object, to avoid another Trophy incident, and distractions. Though he didn’t have many things for distractions, he knew he had that plushie-- that he wasn’t going to say anything about-- that would definitely work to calm him down. Maybe this could work out after all. He and Knife would definitely have to ask about being allowed to have something like a punching bag in their room, but it was worth the ask. That, and 4S had intended to talk to OJ about something anyways-- and with MePhone out of the hotel for the day, this would be a perfect chance to discuss the obvious thing he had noticed when he first activated.

So the two ended up talking about this, discussing things for about an hour, figuring out what would work, and what wouldn’t, before the conversation came to a natural conclusion.
“OJ said we should do this about once a week, or twice if it gets worse, so when would you want to meet next week?”
“Any time works for me. I still have nothing going on.” 4S shrugged, finally getting off of the uncomfortable stool.
“How does wednesday sound? If anything comes up we can change the day, but the middle of the week sounds good for me,”
“Okay.” 4S turned to leave, only stopping in the doorway as Knife walked out, and down the hall.
It was silent for a few moments, the room immediately being filled with an awkward silence, before Paintbrush spoke up again; “Um, can I actually talk to you about something?” 4S raised an eyebrow, turning back around to face the brush.
“... Okay?”
It was silent for another moment, Paintbrush glancing at Lightbulb, who quickly noticed the silence, glancing up from her painting; “Oh, wait lemme give you guys a moment then!” She gave a thumbs-up, stepping out of the room.
Paintbrush sighed, their gaze falling to the floor of the room, before looking up at 4S with an almost sad look.
“I’m sorry,” They… apologized? This just further confused 4S.
“What?”
“For-- um, for killing you. I… I know you basically told me to, and I know it was for a good reason, but Gods, It…” They stopped, rubbing the back of their neck as they struggled to collect their words. “It’s rough. I’m sorry.”
4S was… Honestly speechless, for just a moment. This was not what they had been expecting. They were… Sorry about this?
“Why are you sorry?”
“I-- I literally killed you!” Paintbrush held out their arms, not understanding how he wasn’t getting it, or how he wasn’t angry, or upset, or anything about it.
“Yes, but I’m here now.”
“Yeah, you’re here now, but… No, nevermind I shouldn’t say that.” Paintbrush moved a hand over their mouth, shutting themself up. It didn’t take 4S too much thought to figure out what they were trying to say.
“I’m here now, but I’m struggling, right?”
“I- I didn’t mean it like that,”
“No, no. I understand.” He couldn’t be angry, they were completely right. But he wasn’t going to get bummed out about it when it was just fact at this point.
“The point is though, I’m trying. I’m here, and I’m trying.” 4S crossed his arms, shuffling in place a bit.
“... and that’s good enough,” Paintbrush slid their hand along the floor of the stage they sat on, understanding in that moment that 4S wasn’t upset about this, and that he never would be. Really, 4S didn’t understand why they thought that way. If it came down to it, 4S would not have done anything differently, well, that was a lie, but he wouldn’t hesitate to give up his body again to save his brother if it ever came down to it. That was what he meant. Really, during the week or so that he’s been alive again, of course he’s spent a few of those nights up, just thinking about all the mistakes he’s made, and how badly he messed everything up, but today was not going to be one of those days.
“I’ll see you on wednesday then?”
“Yeah.” 4S would nod, turning to leave again. This certainly didn’t go as bad as either of them thought it was going to do. Hopefully, this was a sign 4S was doing better. Yeah. Now he needed to go talk to OJ.

…

MePhone, Toilet, and MePad found themselves at a museum. Sure, that was none of their type of thing-- except, for well, MePad, but it was still something to do. It was one of those slightly fancy rock museums. Sure, looking at rocks was not MePhone’s idea of fun, but seeing how much both Toilet, and MePad were enjoying their time walking around, he didn’t really mind. That, and this gave him a chance to really think about things, and process what was going on, on his own. He hadn’t had time to himself like this in a while, at least, not since 4S had come back. He wondered how well that anger management thing was going for him, certainly hoping it was helping. His brother was back, and everything was alright, at least, for the most part. Honestly, some part of him still didn’t believe it. Sure, he had mostly shoved off those ‘oh Gods, nothing feels real anymore’ thoughts, but that didn’t mean they were completely gone. Some part of MePhone was terrified, really, at the possibility of waking up one day to realize 4S hadn’t really come back. That this was all some big delusion, or something. He had to just stand there, walking through the museum, hoping that was never going to be the case.
“MePhone! Come look at this rock!” Toilet spoke to him, breaking him out of his deep thoughts. Honestly, he was a bit thankful for that, as his thoughts were getting a bit too dangerous for a public environment. He wasn’t about to start panicking, or feeling bad about things in the middle of a museum. So he shook it all off for now, heading over to look at the specific rock that Toilet was so excited about. Yeah. He certainly didn’t mind this.

…

OJ sighed, getting up from his desk. He had some free time today, but it wasn’t one of those days where he felt like writing, so he figured he would go take a nap or something. MePhone was out on a day trip with MePad and Toilet, leaving him alone to himself. He hummed to himself as he stepped out of the office, locking it behind him, and heading to his, and his partner’s shared room. He opened the door, not bothering to flick on the light, since he was going to take a nap, but as he glanced up into the room, he jolted a bit, dropping his keys as 4S was sat at the foot of the bed, seemingly just waiting in the dark.
“Um??? Hello?” OJ flicked on the lights now.
“Took you long enough.”
“Um, do you need something?” OJ asked, a bit nervous.
“Yes. We must talk.” 4S said, noticing how this just made OJ even more nervous. That was kind of funny.
“... about what?”
“You, and my brother.”
oh. Oh, they were having that talk, huh.
“... What about us?”
“You do notice he’s fond of you, right?”
OJ couldn’t help but laugh a bit at that. “Yeah, uh. We’re literally dating?”
“... Oh. Well I suppose that explains it. That doesn’t explain what he sees in you. I don’t mean to disrespect his choices, but what’s so interesting about you?” 4S crossed his arms.
“Excuse me?” OJ frowned, a bit caught off guard by that. Of course he was being insulted.
“What does he see in you? Why do you think you’re worthy for him?”
“I- Am I being vetted right now?”
“I suppose you are. I need to know you’re not going to do anything to hurt my brother. I need you to know that if you ever do, I will not hesitate to come after you. Do you understand?” For once, 4S was glad he was intimidating, watching OJ shuffle in place.
“I have no intention of hurting him. I love him so much, and I don’t know why I need to tell you this, but Gods, I don’t want to sound lame, or anything, but dating him has made me the happiest I’ve ever been! If I ever end up hurting him, I know I would feel so much worse than whatever you’re threatening me with.” OJ sighed, stepping over to the bed, and taking a seat.
“I love your brother, okay? I can say that a million times, and I’d mean it every time. I don’t know if you’ve ever been in love, I’m not going to assume, but if you ever do fall in love, I’m sure you’d understand.”
4S was silent.
“You’re right, I don’t understand what it’s like being in love, but I think I can understand what he sees in you now. I suppose, thankfully for your sake,” He paused, pointing a finger at OJ, who half-heartedly rolled his eyes-- “He’s lucky to have someone like you in his life. As lame as you seemed on that show of his, I suppose you’re… at the very least, alright.” Of course he phrased it like a sort of backhanded compliment. He wasn’t going to be outright nice, still opting to be intimidating towards OJ, only because it was still incredibly funny to 4S, but he wasn’t going to just be mean either.
“Um… Anyways, I was going to take a nap? Can you go back to Knife or something now, please?” OJ let out, a bit sheepish, choosing to ignore the backhanded comments as he got up to grab his cork.
“Okay.” Was all 4S said, before leaving, as asked. As he stepped out, and walked down the hallway, Lightbulb peeked out of the art room, frantically waving towards him. Intrigued, he raised an eyebrow, walking over.
“Hey! I was trying to find you after that anger thing, I wanted to show you this!” Lightbulb ducked back into the room, before stepping back out into the hall, a painting tucked under her arm. She looked up to 4S, who crossed his arms, clearly waiting, before she quickly held the painting out for him to look at.
“You’re a good subject, you sit really still, so I thought it’d be fun to paint you!” 4S could hear her smile, even if her face was hidden behind the painting itself. Both of 4S’s eyebrows raised now, not quite in shock, but surprise. It was a nice painting, really, there wasn’t a background or anything, just a few painted on shapes around the canvas, in the middle being him, sitting on the stool he had been sitting on during the hour he was in there.
“Huh.” He let out.
“Yeah!” Lightbulb lowered the painting, smiling at 4S.
“It’s… Very nice,” 4S’s tone was a bit quiet. Really, he couldn’t… well-- he was having a hard time processing this. Despite everything, despite how he had acted when he showed up, that her, and other objects were still showing him so much kindness.
“If you want, you can take it and put it up in your room-- ah, unless it’s too tacky, but, well, actually, nothing is too tacky, I’ll just let you do whatever with it,” She held out the painting now, still smiling, as 4S carefully took it, tucking it under his arm.
“... Thank you,”
“Yeah! Of course!” And just like that, she ducked back into the art room.
Huh. He really didn’t understand the kindness he had been being shown, but… He really did appreciate it.

Chapter Text

This wasn’t something he had thought about in years, recalling what his creator’s voice sounded like. Mostly because he hadn’t been thinking about, well, anything, for most of those years, but also because the thought, the sound of his voice made him feel ill. It made him feel hopeless. Now-- or, rather, many many years ago, as Cobs sat on his chair, his arms crossed over his desk, and 4S standing in front of it, at full attention, he was speaking.
“You understand why I’ve called you here, correct?”
“... Yes, sir.” He was glad his sunglasses hid his eyes, otherwise Cobs would be able to tell the fear he put in his creation just by his presence.
“Do you have any idea where he went? What was the last thing he said to you?”
“We… Didn’t talk before he left. After training, I didn’t see him afterwards. I’m sorry, sir.”
Cobs let out a displeased hum, glancing to the laptop on his desk, before glaring back up at 4S.
“Well, with him gone, we’re going to have to send someone to… Fix this problem. Since I’m still working on my next model, you’re going to have to do that.”
4S felt his heart shatter at the realization of what he meant.
“But sir--”
“No, no. That defect made his choice. It’s his fault he left,” Cobs paused, glancing at his computer. 4S had to stifle a reply to his creator, not pleased with how he was talking about his brother. The gall of this man to call him an idiot after all the threats? If anything, it was Cobs fault… Right? 4S wasn’t given enough time to process, or think about that at the moment, as Cobs continued speaking; “and it’s his fault I’m going to have to dump all of his training tasks onto you. Remember, he’s the one who left you here. Who abandoned us. He’s selfish for that. Do you understand?”
And though 4S didn’t understand yet-- not wanting to understand this at all, really, he knew Cobs wasn’t going to stop telling him, and drilling in that fact until he would.
And that’s exactly what happened. Day after day of incredibly physically, and mentally tasking training, nonstop, with little to no breaks, the only breaks being granted were when he would literally shut off from exhaustion, until Cobs finally deemed him ready, nothing but rage, and hatred in his heart for the brother-- no. For the traitor, that abandoned him. He needed to get that anger out of his system somehow. Rage was a powerful weapon, after all.

.

.

.

4S jolted awake, now once again very much in the present, and in that obnoxiously orange shaded hotel room. It had been so long since he had experienced a nightmare-- or, well, no. No, that couldn’t be called anything else, that was just what it was-- but that wasn’t the point, it had been so long, and he had forgotten how absolutely terrifying they were. How he woke up gasping for air, his gaze immediately darting to the other bed in the room as he slapped a hand over his mouth to keep quiet, watching the object in the other bed shuffle a bit. Though the hand stifled some of the noise, it didn’t do much. He had to get out of here. He bolted out of bed, ready to yank the door open, but he stopped himself, knowing he had to be quiet. Despite his shaking, and heavy breaths, he managed to open, and close the door quietly. He took a few steps, wanting to head for the stairs, wanting to get outside-- he needed the cold air, he needed to ground himself, but his shaking legs gave way beneath him, as he fell to his knees… in the middle of the dimly lit hallway. This was terrifying. Not only was he incredibly freaked out by all of this, but he felt embarrassed. Even though nobody was seeing him right now, this was absolutely humiliating. He took a few moments to process and figure out how he was feeling, and all he could muster in his brain was; miserable. That memory had chilled him to his core, and remembering how he had felt during that time was not pleasant in the slightest. Despite all this though, he didn’t cry. It was overwhelming terror in his systems, but it wasn’t enough to elicit that reaction out of him just yet. Through all this, his heaving, and shaking, and struggling to fix his breathing, he could hear the door click open, the feeling of humiliation returning tenfold, shifting into something closer to shame as he whipped around a bit to see Knife, one hand on the half-opened door, and the other just idle by his side. As Knife processed what he was seeing, his expression shifted several times, settling on something 4S couldn’t read, before he stepped out, kneeling down in front of the other. Was it sympathy, or pity? He still couldn’t tell.
“Take a moment, try to stop thinking about anything at the moment other than my voice, and what you can see, or hear, or feel.” Knife moved a hand to the phone’s shoulder, making direct eye contact as he spoke, his expression completely focused on the task at hand. 4S did as told. That was all he was really good at, doing what he was told, as he took several moments longer than he would’ve liked to think about anything else other than the memory that had played in his mind, as he focused on other things, most of his thoughts being about Knife’s hand on his shoulder, but it worked enough to give him the time to regulate his breathing. Gods, that was awful… And this was still incredibly shameful to 4S. It was silent for just a moment, Knife giving him the time he needed.
“Wh-- why,” 4S huffed out, still a bit breathless, and certainly struggling to find his words.
“Well when I can hear you having a panic attack at a loud enough volume to wake me up from the hallway, of course I’m going to come check on you.”
Oh. Of course he hadn’t been subtle at all with stepping out, had he. 4S couldn’t help but curl in on himself a bit. The carpet below him was uncomfortable. He hated that.
“Uh, but that’s… not a bad thing, with the state you were in, you’re lucky someone came out to check on you… Obviously it's not great you were out here panicking in the first place, but…” Knife grimmaced, his awkward wording being completely unintentional.
“I understand.” 4S’s tone was quiet, as he held his hands close to himself. Knife finally moved his hand away from 4S’s shoulder. He would be lying if he said he wished Knife had kept his hand where it was, but he’d never admit that to anyone. Thankfully, his mind was a lot more quiet now, thanks to what the other had told him to do, but that didn’t stop some thoughts from still coming through. His frown deepened, Knife definitely noticing this.
“Hey, how about we get back to the room?” He shrugged, trying to help, but still be nonchalant about it. “Probably more comfortable than out here,” Knife took the initiative, standing up, and offering a hand out to 4S, who was suddenly very aware he was in the middle of the hallway on his knees again. He didn’t hesitate, taking Knife’s hand as he pulled the phone up with no effort at all. Thankfully, even though he was still definitely trembling, he could walk, at least in short steps, as Knife stayed by his side, just to make sure he wouldn’t fall-- or, well, to be there to catch him if he did.
“You good now?” Knife stood in the middle space of the room, between the two beds.
“Yes. I… should be fine.” 4S sighed out, too tired to really care about anything in the moment as he reached over to the side of his bed, pulling the plushie out of the bag to hold. If Knife were to judge him for this, well, he could just go deal with it, because he needed the extra comfort it provided in the moment. Knife let out a small; ‘huh,’ at this, but made no comment, not seeming bothered in the slightest, as he walked over, and flopped down on his own bed.
“If you need anything, don’t hesitate to bother me, I won’t care,” Knife yawned out, yanking the covers on his bed over himself, as he moved to lie on his side.
“Thank you.” 4S thumbed over the plushie, the soft material helping ground him a little, as he moved to lie down himself, facing the ceiling.
This was… weird. Despite having calmed down, he didn’t sleep at all for the rest of the night, his thoughts keeping him awake, though, the weird thing about that, and honestly thankfully for his sake, the thoughts weren’t meeple related, but about his new roommate. He didn’t understand why he was feeling this way, but he wasn’t complaining. It was… unknown, but it was pleasant, compared to the panic from earlier.

…

MePhone found himself pacing. It was early, just before noon, and he was already thinking his morning away. Yesterday, 4S had both declined the offer to hang out, and to have dinner together. That wasn’t a big deal, but when it was almost every time that he asked 4S to hang out lately, that he said no, it was unfortunately leaving MePhone to worry that his brother might just not want anything to do with him. Yeah. He knew that was stupid, he knew he was just overthinking, but the fear was still there, and growing. OJ was out of the room already, out doing hotel work and such for the day, so that left MePhone alone. This was not going well. Surely he’d just go find something to do. Surely it wouldn’t hurt to ask 4S to hang out, right? … Well, unless he was actually right with his thoughts, and asking him would only be an inconvenience-- no, no. He can’t think like this. He should know better than this by now, internally cursing at himself for his thoughts, as he huffed, leaving the room. His thinking was a bit too much today, so he’d just go figure it out for himself.
If he was right, well, he’d just have to live with that, he supposed, but hoping he was wrong, this was just going to be a small misunderstanding, His thoughts getting away from him. Yeah. Surely that’s all it was. So he trekked up to the room his brother was in, knocking on the door, and just hoping for an answer. He let his hand fall back down to his side as Knife answered, peeking out of the room with a yawn.
“What is it?”
“Can I uh-- can I borrow 4S?” MePhone gave a nervous smile, his nerves still very apparent, as Knife shrugged, opening the door further, and stepping out himself.
“All yours, I guess. Just send him down to the lobby or whatever when you’re done.” And he made his way down the hall, not looking back as MePhone stepped into the room.
4S was still lying flat on the bed, his screen dimmed, but clearly not completely off.
“Did… you not sleep last night?” MePhone walked over, sitting on the side of the bed, and glancing at his brother.
“I tried. Didn’t work.” It was hard to tell what 4S’s expression was at the moment, his shades hiding his eyes at the moment.
“Oh, sorry,” MePhone didn’t know why he was apologizing.
4S frowned. “Don’t apologize.”
“So--” MePhone shut his mouth, stifling another apology. 4S sat up now, thankful he had hidden the plush back in the bag about an hour prior.
“Was there something you needed?” 4S raised an eyebrow.
“Ah, well, I was wondering if you-- uh.” He paused for a moment, before continuing; “If you don’t have anything going on today, do you want to hang out?”
4S was silent, this definitely not helping MePhone’s nerves.
Really, 4S would love to spend time with his brother, it’s been twelve years after all, and he really wanted to make up for lost time, but… He was tired. Yeah. That would be his excuse. It wasn’t anything else. It wasn’t the suffocating guilt that he felt for making him worry, or putting him through the process of losing him, it was just him being tired. So he had to decline.
“I…” 4S glanced away, feeling even more guilty for this. “I’m tired, I don’t… Think I have the energy to do anything today. I was going to try to get some sleep, actually.”
“... Oh, okay,” 4S watched MePhone’s expression drop, and falter a bit, though he still kept a nervous smile, trying to make it seem like this hadn’t shattered his emotions. “Um… see you around then,” MePhone stood up abruptly, making sure to face his screen, and face completely away from 4S as he almost rushed out of the room. The guilt 4S was feeling only grew. He didn’t want to push MePhone away, but he just… Gods, he couldn’t do this.

MePhone rushed out of the room, putting a hand over his mouth to stifle any sounds as he ran down, passing through the lobby, ignoring anyone who looked at him as he rushed to his and OJ’s room. So that answered his fears then. Gods, this could not have gone any worse. This hurt so much, but… But at least he got his answer. That didn’t make it any less painful.
Knife, who had just sat down a moment or so ago, saw MePhone run by, immediately assuming something had happened. Gods, he was going to have to go right back up there to talk to 4S wasn’t he. Knife let out a huff, looking over to Pickle, who raised a confused eyebrow.
“I’ll be back in a little bit, feel free to play a few rounds without me.” Knife stood, placing the controller he had grabbed back down on the couch, as he made his way back to his and 4S’s room. He didn’t have to knock, but he did anyway, if just to let 4S know he was there, as he opened the door, not waiting for a response, stepping in to immediately look at 4S, who was sat leaned over a bit, his face in his hands.
“What happened this time?” Knife closed the door carefully, leaning on the wall, and crossing his arms.
“I- I can’t.”
“Can’t what?”
“I messed up. I can’t talk to him,” Was all he could muster. Knife let out a huff, choosing his next words carefully in his mind, before speaking.
“Well, it’s tough, but you’re going to have to go talk to him. I’m sure you didn’t intend to upset him, but that’s what you did. If you don’t talk out your problems, things are just going to get worse. Even if you think it’s hard now? It’ll get a hell of a lot worse if you keep waiting, and putting it off, dude.”
4S’s frown deepened again. He knew Knife was right. He just didn’t want to hurt MePhone anymore. Honestly, he was still freaked out about the dream. He wasn’t going to admit it, but that was another reason he declined the offer. The rage from that memory had lasted longer than he’d like to admit. Gods, this was so hard.
“... Just need a moment.”
“Do you want me to sit with you for a bit? Would that help?” Knife offered. 4S moved his hands away from his face, looking at Knife, a bit confused. But he answered; “Yes.”

…

MePhone sat on the bed, clutching one of the pillows for comfort as he was laying on his side. That had definitely ruined his day. Of course his fears just had to overwhelm him with the thinking. Yeah, 4S had said he hadn’t slept, and MePhone was sure that him saying he was tired wasn’t a lie, but-- But no. He was just overthinking again, he hoped. He felt like such an idiot for letting this get away from him. He felt like such an idiot for thinking any of this was going to work. He couldn’t help but curl in on himself a bit, clutching the pillow even tighter. It had been so long since he had felt this miserable, and his brain was not helping. Through all this wallowing, and attempting not to cry-- lest OJ walk in on him in this state or something, there was a knock at the door. MePhone bolted up to a sitting position, tossing the pillow away as he did his best to try to seem composed. It was silent for a few beats, before he spoke;
“Ah, uh, who is it?” He cringed as his voice faltered a bit. Shit, he was being incredibly transparent right now when he didn’t want to be.
“It’s me,” 4S’s voice called out, immediately sending a pit of fear into MePhone. Surely he was here to just confirm his fears-- or even worse, tell him to stop bothering, or--
4S opened the door, MePhone’s gaze immediately locked onto him as he stepped in. He wasn’t wearing his shades at the moment, and he… He looked miserable.
“What, uh, happened to sleeping, huh? Not having energy for anything?” MePhone let out, a slightly bitter tone to his voice. He hadn’t meant to actually say that, but it was too late to take it back now. 4S shuffled in his spot for a moment, before stepping over to sit on the bed. Both of them were silent.
“This was more important than sleeping. We need to talk.”
“Yeah, if you even want to, I just figured you’d rather be doing anything else.”
This… definitely caught 4S off guard, the attitude from his brother, but… But he knew he deserved it.
“Why do you think that?”
“Why do I think this? Yeah, after all you’ve been doing lately is avoiding me?” MePhone paused, trying to stifle the next comment, but he couldn’t help it as it came out; “What did I do wrong,” His voice, and expression falter as he slaps his hands over his mouth. 4S could feel the guilt again. It was almost overwhelming now.
“I- I don’t… I- I know we have our own separate lives, and you don’t owe me any of your time, but when it’s every single time I ask, when you continue to avoid me, I-” MePhone paused again, his hands lowering back down to his sides in almost a defeated way.
“I’m… I’m sorry, for whatever I did to make you want to avoid me, I- I’ll do whatever I need to, to make it up to you, if you’d just let me--” His voice faltered again, his tone quiet, and lined with his own guilt. Shit. 4S had really messed this up.
“No, no, stop,” 4S stood back up, whipping around to look at his brother, his expression distressed. MePhone looked up at his brother, on the verge of tears now.
“It’s not you, It’s never been you,” 4S stepped back, his distress, and tension growing. “I- I’m not trying to avoid you. I just-- I’m so guilty, All I ever do is hurt you, all I’ve ever done is hurt you, and-- and you deserve to have anyone better in your company. I’m sorry for hurting you. I’m sorry for everything.”
MePhone was speechless, his guilt shifting just into sorrow. The two of them just stared at each other now, both of them unable to say anything more. All of this hurt. For both of them.
“You… You never did anything wrong, I-” MePhone shut his mouth, unable to think of how to respond in the moment. Gods. This was worse than any other reason that MePhone had thought of in his head, because this was all just really his brother blaming everything on himself. They’d have to work on that, but now, they needed to be here for each other.
“Please, just sit back down?” MePhone finally spoke up again, the eye-contact between the two breaking, as he glanced down to the bed.
“... Okay.” He did as told, hesitating, before moving to sit back down.
“You haven’t done anything wrong. I… Know you might think you have, or-- or that for some reason, you’ve hurt me, but you haven’t.” MePhone paused. “The only thing that’s hurt me is knowing you’re blaming yourself. I- I know how dangerous that is. I know how hard it is to get rid of that feeling, but… I’m here. I want to be here for you, if you’ll just talk to me, please.”
4S curled in on himself a bit.
“I’m sorry, Blue.”
“You told me to stop apologizing, so that’s what I’m going to tell you. I think at this point I’ve told you several times, but… You still don’t have anything to apologize for. Okay?” MePhone moved a hand to his brother’s shoulder.
“Okay.” He replied, but he didn’t know if he believed it. He still had a long way to go with that. The two sat in silence for a few moments.
“It’s funny really, the only times we have hung out have been us emotionally connecting,” MePhone let out a small, tired chuckle at this.
“I suppose that is funny.” 4S’s gaze was stuck to the bed the two were sitting on, as he felt his hand along the blanket. It was taking so much to feel this way, but maybe sometime soon he’d start feeling okay. All this felt like to 4S was one step forward, and two steps backwards. Like he had barely been making any progress at all, but… maybe this was a sign he could finally start making more steps forward, than back. That was a nice thought for now. He still felt incredibly bad about all of this-- and he was sure MePhone did too at the moment, but actually talking about this definitely helped, even if it was just a little bit in the moment.

It was silent for a long while after that, before MePhone spoke again; “I… Not today, because I don’t have the energy for it, and it’s probably going to be another rough thing, but there’s something I need to show you, are you willing to head out of the hotel with me sometime tomorrow, if the weather isn’t bad?”
“... What is it?”
“It’s… A bit complicated, but… ah, I’ll tell you when we get to it, okay? I don’t want to have you stuck thinking about it all day, because I know when I was, it was kind of terrible. I don’t want to burden you with that.”
“You make it sound like something bad. Is it something bad?”
‘Well, I mean-- yes, but-- no, no. We aren’t going to worry about this, okay? Let’s… maybe we can talk about something else for now, if you’d like to?” MePhone shrugged, trying to drop the suspicious topic.
4S wasn’t going to argue. “Okay.”

…

It was later that evening, when 4S finally caved, accepting a dinner offer. The two sat on the couch, MePhone munching away at the meal, while 4S sat there, poking at it with his fork.
“Y’know, you’re supposed to eat that, right?”
“I know how eating works, I just. Don’t do it, ever. Haven’t done it.” 4S shrugged, not really understanding what MePhone saw in eating on a regular basis. It didn’t mess up their systems or anything-- they were built with the capability to do so, after all, but there was just no practical purpose to it. 4S huffed, finally poking one of the bits of the food with his fork, hesitating, as he brought it up to his mouth. This was when he became aware that MePhone was staring at him, intently, as to watch his reaction-- which freaked him out.
“I’m not going to eat it if you’re staring.”
“But I wanna see how you react!”
“... Too bad.” 4S lowered the fork, and MePhone surrendered, glancing away; “Fine, fine! Just let me know what you think, okay?”
“Fine.” He raised the fork again, deciding to just go for it, and get it over with. This was… Weird. Very weird, and strange, and he didn’t… Well, he didn’t hate it, but it was still weird. He didn’t really like it, either. He glanced to MePhone, who was staring at him again now. 4S rolled his eyes.
“Well?”
“Well, I can’t say I was missing out.”
“Do you just not like the food we’re having tonight, or do you mean eating in general?”
“I… Don’t think I like the food.” He placed his fork back down on his plate. It was pasta night, some sort of spaghetti. He couldn’t stand the texture of the noodles he had bit into, really.
“Well, we can just keep trying other foods then-- uh, not tonight, obviously, but y’know.” MePhone shrugged, having finished his own meal.
“Is anybody going to be upset that I wasted this?”
“Well uh--” MePhone stopped to think, only to shrug again. “Oh well, I mean, it wasn’t like you took a lot, so it should be fine,”
“Okay. If any of them have a problem with it, I’ll just…” 4S trailed off, noticing that Trophy stepped up to the couch, the mood between the three turning tense, as Trophy cleared his throat, glancing back into the kitchen at OJ, who was glaring at him.
“I just wanted-- uh. I needed to apologize. For starting a fight. And for what I said.” Trophy struggled to get these words out, still not even really believing he was in the wrong, but he wasn’t about to risk getting kicked out. “I shouldn’t have said anything to you, or about you, and I was… wrong.”
4S stifled back a rude remark, knowing it would only start another fight. 4S could tell this apology was bullshit, but as long as Trophy didn’t bother him, or MePhone again, he didn’t care.
“Yes, it was. You’re a shitty person.” 4S crossed his arms, both MePhone, and Trophy looking over at him, their expressions drastically different.
“4S, don’t--”
“I- I know. Okay? Not everyone needs to tell me I’m an asshole, okay? Honestly, screw you, whatever.” Trophy rolled his eyes, turning around, and storming off. 4S smirked. That was amusing.

…

4S went back to his room that night to see Knife sitting on his own bed, his back against the wall his bed was next to, and a hand-held gaming console in his lap, taking up his full concentration-- or well, it had been, before 4S stepped in.
“How’d it go?” Knife glanced up at the phone, as he sat down on his own bed, taking the plushie out of its bag.
“It went alright. I think things will be okay. Thank you for the advice.”
Knife let out a small hum, his focus turning back to the game he was playing.
“Y’know, you don’t have to speak like that all the time,”
“Are you insulting my voice?”
“No, I’m just saying it’s weird how formally you speak, uh-- no offense.”
4S raised an eyebrow.
“What do you mean, formal?”
“To put it simply, you speak like you have a stick up your ass.”
“I don’t--” 4S was definitely confused.
“No, I know you literally don’t, but-- listen, it’s just a saying. Just loosen up if you can, okay?”
“... Okay. I can try.” 4S shrugged, flopping down onto his back, holding the plushie close. Thankfully, he didn’t have trouble sleeping after such a long, taxing day.

…

MePhone let out a hefty sigh, holding OJ close as the two laid in their shared bed, honestly exhausted after today. He was glad OJ was here for him tonight, returning the hold.
“How did it go? Is everything alright?”
“Yeah. I… For once, I think I can say it might be,” MePhone smiled, letting his eyes close, as the two drifted off to sleep in each other's arms. Tomorrow, if the weather was not going to be shitty, might be rough, but tonight was fine. He, and 4S were finally making progress. That was enough for now.

Chapter Text

That morning, Toilet and MePad departed again, returning to their own lives, as everything was, well, mostly fine for the time being, and MePhone didn’t want to hold them back any longer than they needed to be there.

…

MePhone, and 4S headed out the same day the other two had departed, around the afternoon. The weather was thankfully clear, only mildly cloudy, with little chance of rain. So MePhone was taking the chance to do what needed to be done now. Knife didn’t have to go with them, the reasoning being as long as someone’s with 4S it should be fine. It was mostly walking, and silence, before the two of them reached the outskirts of a cave 4S didn’t even know was on this island. Really, he didn’t know anything that was on this island, other than the hotel, the forest by TestTube’s lab, and the season one contestant grounds by the cliff. MePhone hesitated, glancing over to 4S. He clearly knew something he didn’t.
“So what’s in here? You’re not planning on murdering me in there, are you?” 4S joked, elbowing his brother, who just let out a nervous chuckle.
“No, of course not, I just… um,” He shuffled in place.
“I… Obviously before you came back, and before-- um… he bothered me for the second time, I found some letters, and… They were from him. I- I don’t even know how they got into the hotel in the first place, and I still think about that, but… I don’t know. What I’m trying to say right now, is that these letters aren’t… very great, but I feel like you should still see them. You have the right to see what he said about you.”
“Oh. I see why you didn’t want to be direct about it, now.” 4S crossed his arms.
“Take your time. I’ll follow you, obviously. I’d rather not get lost.”
“Yeah, yeah. Okay, just… give me a moment?”
“Of course.”
The two stood at the entrance of the cave, the cold fall air passing through. MePhone was not enjoying that so much, but 4S didn’t mind. Eventually, MePhone shook off his nerves as best as he could, before stepping in. It was now, or never, really.
“If… this is too much for you, we don’t have to do this.”
“No, no, I… It’ll be fine, I promise. If we don’t do it now, I don’t think I’ll have the courage to do it later, honestly.”
It was silent for a few moments as the two walked just a bit further into the cave.
“Before we do this, um, we have some time before we get to the area, there’s another thing I should probably tell you,”
“Hm?” 4S glanced at his brother, who’s gaze was locked onto the ground in front of the two.
“During season one of my show-- and er, most of season two, I… Didn’t remember anything about Meeple. I- I didn’t even… Remember you, at the time.”
4S stopped in his tracks. “What?”
“Yeah, I… wiped my memory, I couldn’t handle, or process anything that happened after I ran away, so I-- I just… poof, memories gone,” MePhone stopped walking too, now looking back at his brother, clearly very nervous about admitting this.
“That… explains a lot, honestly… You… Didn’t even know who I was when you showed up, I remember that… I just… Well, I guess it should’ve been obvious, huh.” 4S shrugged, his expression remaining neutral.
“Yeah… Um, it was hard. It’s funny, I didn’t… it didn’t even really sink in, your sacrifice, until I got my memories back.” MePhone shuffled in his spot, almost ashamed.
“Hey, honestly, I don’t blame you. I probably would’ve done the same thing,” 4S lied, but in a reassuring way, trying to calm his brother’s nerves by telling him what he would want to hear. MePhone took a deep breath, calming himself down, before the two continued walking again.
It was silent for a bit, before 4S spoke;
“So I assume none of the letters were very kind?”
“Hah, not at all, really. Um, the thing that actually got me thinking about you a lot again was one of the letters-- and uh, it’s mostly just him shit talking about you? It made me really angry honestly, but… uh, um…” MePhone trailed off, coming to a complete stop. It was a small opening in the cave. 4S stepped to his side, observing the sight before them. There was a small, sleek box that was wide open, and four separate sheets of paper that were laying strewn across the cave floor.
“Wow, I would’ve thought you’d keep them more organized.” 4S shrugged, not noticing how MePhone seemed frozen in place, as he knelt down, picking up one of the letters to scan over.
After reading the first one he picked up, he just rolled his eyes. MePhone was right. This was a bunch of bullshit. As he picked up the second one, neatly stacking the first behind it, he glanced back to MePhone, who looked distressed. The tension in the air was noticeable now. Oh, he didn’t read the room, did he,
“... What?” 4S let out, getting back up to his feet.
“I… I didn’t leave that box open. I- the letters… were all in the box, I- I… Nobody else… I-” MePhone fumbled over his words, the pace of his breathing picking up a lot as he stumbled back a bit. Oh, oh shit,
“Hey, hey, take a seat, okay?” 4S quickly made his way over to his brother, helping him sit down. The subject of the letters didn’t matter right now. He had to make sure his brother was okay.
“I don’t… Nobody else who knew about these-- Only MePad knew where I put this box, I-”
“Hey, shut up-- er, um, sorry, that was a bit too aggressive, just stop talking, and breathe, okay?” MePhone would frantically nod, taking in his brother’s suggestion, as he calmed down.
“You say only MePad knew where this box was? Him doing… whatever this is, is very unlikely, right?”
“Y- yeah, He… He wouldn’t tell anyone, either…” He huffed out, closing his eyes to take another deep breath.
“Who else knew about this box? The letters?”
“... OJ, and TestTube. Neither of them would-- neither of them knew the box was here, I-” MePhone shut his mouth, really trying to think. “... Taco, she opened it for me and OJ-- but I-- she didn’t know what was in the box… I… I don’t know why any of them would seek this out, or go through it after what happened,” His frown deepened. 4S took a moment to think. OJ had already proven he would never want to hurt MePhone, so that left TestTube, and Taco as the two of suspicion. Which was technically not a bad thing for him, considering he was going up to Meeple with them in about a month, and he could take the time to figure out, subtly, which one had done this… Though, really thinking about it, Taco was the more likely subject. She was shifty, and shady, and despite being a ‘changed individual’ she still seemed very devious. That didn’t explain how she would have known where the box was, though. That’s what he’d have to find out.
“... How about we just pack this up, and move it elsewhere? Would it be safer if it were with you, if you don’t want anyone else seeing these letters?” 4S stood up, moving over to gather the remaining two letters, and placing them carefully in the box, closing it when he got all of them in.
“... I… Yeah, probably.” MePhone sighed. “If I hide it under the bed or something, in me and OJ’s shared room, it’s unlikely anyone’s going to find it. After we get out of here, I… I’ll let you read these later, okay?”
“Fine with me. Let’s get out of here then. This cave clearly makes you tense and uncomfortable.”
MePhone huffed, not really expecting it to have been so obvious, but he couldn’t argue.
“Yeah.” MePhone took the box, tucking it under his arm as the two made their exit from the cave. 4S was going to do whatever he needed to do to figure this out, but he wasn’t going to tell MePhone he was looking into it. He didn’t want his brother to have another thing to worry about. So he was taking this into his own hands.

The two of them stopped outside the hotel, MePhone glancing back at 4S, who turned away.
“What are you up to now?”
“Heading to the lab. If anyone asks.”
“Um, okay, you phrased that like that’s not what you’re doing.”
“No, it is, I need to go talk to TestTube. She advised me to come by for a check-up with my systems… I forgot to do it yesterday, for obvious reasons, so I’m stopping by today.”
“Well, okay, see you around then, uh… I need to deal with this,” MePhone gestured to the box with a sigh. 4S would nod, and be on his way, towards the vial’s lab. He pressed the button, going down the small slide, and landing on that familiar pillow.
“Ah! Hello 4S! Are you here for a checkup?”
“Yes. I didn’t come by yesterday because… I was distracted, so I’ve chosen today.”
“Ah, well, do make it quick, we are still busy, after all.” Taco piped in, 4S moving his gaze to stare at the shorter object.
“Don’t mind her, she’s… extra snappy today for some reason, but yes, we are getting started on that ship soon! I received the final components in post, so it should be a few weeks or so before it’s finished. Truly, I could probably do it in less time, but since the cloud itself isn’t going to be here until the end of this month, I’m going to take my time.”
“Okay.” 4S walked further into the lab room, sitting on one of the many stools still just sitting around in the room. TestTube moved away from her laptop, grabbing a clipboard and a pencil to write anything important down, as she stepped over to 4S.
“How are your systems? Have you encountered any bugs, or hitches with your systems?”
“I get… really warm sometimes, but that’s only just very occasional, I don’t think it’s anything to be concerned about, but… that’s about it.”
“Hm, okay, well if that becomes a concern or worry of yours, come tell me immediately and I can take a look to see if I can find out what’s causing it, uh, anything else?”
“No, not really. Everything physically feels fine.”
“How about mentally? How have you been lately?”
4S reflected on the past few days, staying silent for a few moments, before speaking again;
“Things have been rough, but I am managing.”
“Have you thought about talking to someone?”
“I have anger management on Wednesday with Paintbrush. I have also been talking through things with MePhone.”
“Oh! Well that’s great, as long as you’re doing better than you were last time you were down here, right?” TestTube gave a small smile, before going back over to the counter, placing the clipboard down.
“Anything interesting going on at the hotel? I haven’t been up there in a while, and I didn’t really want to ask Taco,”
“I’m right here--”
“Well, nothing very interesting, other than this box,” 4S spoke, knowing exactly what he was doing as he had to play it coy. He watched TestTube tense up at this, Taco only raising a curious eyebrow.
“Um, was it MePhone’s?”
“Yes. He was going to let me see what was in it, but when we found where he had put it last, it was open.” 4S glanced over at Taco, using the advantage of his shades hiding his eyes to see what her reaction would be. She seemed… uninterested. Maybe this was going to be harder than it needed to be.
“So that means someone found, and snooped through that box.” TestTube came to the same suspicion, immediately looking over at Taco, who scoffed.
“Sure, I was curious, but I don’t even know where he hid that thing. If I had known, I would’ve done it, but I didn’t. I don’t even care anymore, really. This Meeple thing me and TestTube are doing has taken up most of my focus, really. I don’t even know why I have to defend myself, as if every little shady weird thing has to be blamed on me. Very insulting, really.”
“I mean, we have a right to be suspicious when you have a track record, Taco.”
“Aren’t you a scientist? Shouldn’t you not be assuming things?”
“I’m not assuming, I’m coming to a reasonable suspicion. Can you just be honest with us for once, and tell us if you did this or not? Because this could be serious.”
“I didn’t do it, and anyways, didn’t you also know about this box? Didn’t you literally get too nosy for your own good about it?” Taco was growing just a little defensive, but who wouldn’t be, if they were being wrongfully accused. What she said though, immediately brought the attention onto TestTube, who let out an offended scoff.
“Okay, first of all, I know I messed up with that one, and second of all, how do you even know about that!?”
“I hear a lot more than you’d think.”
“That just makes you even more suspicious!” TestTube glared at the smaller object.
“What happened.” 4S crossed his arms, looking at TestTube.
“I- I overstepped. When he first found that box, I was curious, and I messed up, and was too pushy about it, but I didn’t mean to hurt him-- it was a genuine mistake, and I still regret it, but even if I was curious then, I’ve dropped it by now. It’s been months, for God’s sake! I don’t even care anymore!” TestTube huffed out, moving a hand to rub the space between her eyes, clearly annoyed by the accusation.
4S narrowed his eyes. He could feel the trust for the vial lessening at this, but not enough for it to be complete disdain. This was clearly raising tension, which was not what was intended.
“You don’t seem like a likely suspect for this anyways.” 4S turned his attention to taco, as he got up from the stool, stepping over to Taco, who had been sitting on the counter this entire time. He lowered his glasses, staring directly at her for a few moments, just waiting to see if she’d falter, or crack. Surprisingly, she did not. 4S let out a small; ‘huh.’ and stepped back.
“Anyways, now that you’ve done… whatever that was, are you going to help us with building the ship, or not?”
“Fine. I’ll help for a bit.” 4S was still definitely suspicious, but he’d drop it for now. For now, the three of them, despite tensions, they had a ship to get working on.

…

“Hey, everything alright? You seemed a bit frazzled when you walked by the lo-- ohh, oh.” OJ peeked into the shared room, his eyes immediately darting to the box that MePhone held. He was on his knees next to the bed, just about to slide the box under it. He looked like he had just been caught doing a crime.
“Ah-- Um, I just-- I’m hiding it here-- I hope you don’t mind, I just-- I…” MePhone shut himself up, annoyed at his wording.
“Sorry, let me try to say this again, uh. I was going to show 4S the letters, because he has the right to see them, but I… The box was opened, when I KNOW I closed it when I left it where it was, so someone read these letters, and I- I don’t know who.” MePhone frowned, sliding the shut, and now re-locked box under the bed.
“That’s… really sketchy, huh.” OJ stepped further into the room, carefully closing the door
“Yeah. I’m a bit freaked out about it, sorry,” MePhone let out a nervous chuckle, standing up, and dusting himself off.
“No, no, I’m sure I’d be freaked out too, if it were me, don’t worry about it, do you want to hang out with me for today to get your mind off of it?”
“Yeah, that sounds nice, actually. 4S is down in the lab with TestTube, and Taco, so I might as well.” MePhone gave a weary smile to his boyfriend, walking over.
“What’s on the agenda today then?”
“Well, I was thinking we could go on a walk? I have some free time, and I don’t really feel like writing, or keeping you stuck with me in my ‘apparently boring’ office while I do that, so… Yeah?”
“Yeah, okay. It’s a bit chilly though,”
“Oh? In that case,” OJ shuffled over to the small closet in the room, opening it, and pulling something off of a hanger. He held it up, a big grin on his face. It was a scarf.
“Oh my Gods that’s the ugliest scarf I’ve ever seen,” MePhone let out, unable to stifle laughter. OJ scoffed, though not actually offended. “Yeah, well maybe I thought it looked good when I bought it!”
“No offense, but you have to have the worst taste ever.”
“So what does that say about you then?” OJ stuck his tongue out, playing into the joke, as MePhone scoffed.
“Oh come on! Okay, but what were you going to do if I agreed with that, huh?”
“Well, say you agreed to that, I would’ve… Held you close, and told you that you were wrong, and keep you held until you believed it. How about that?” OJ put on the scarf, adjusting it a bit as he glanced up to MePhone, who was clearly flustered.
“I- Uh, is it too late to say I agree with you then?”
“Pssh, yeah. C’mon, dear. Let’s get going,” OJ chuckled, walking up to MePhone, taking his hand in his own.
“Y- yeah, okay,”

.

.

.

“Jeez, you were right, it’s practically freezing out here,” OJ huffed. Surely it was going to be winter soon, which meant both having to deal with snow, and the holiday season. That was going to be hectic, OJ already knew, because it always was. Sure, not all the residents at the hotel celebrated Christmas, but there was still a tree they would put up and decorate, and of course, the annual holiday party, that usually ended with something not so great happening. OJ still remembered having to call in MePhone from off the island to revive Paper, after that sprinkler incident. That was a whole ordeal, that OJ would rather not have to go through with anyone else. OJ was snapped out of his thoughts, as MePhone leaned into him a bit as the two walked in.
“Maybe I should’ve gotten you a scarf, too, huh?” OJ mused, smirking at his partner. MePhone rolled his eyes.
“No way, I’d rather freeze than wear something as tacky as that.”
“Yeah, yeah, whatever.” OJ smiled, leaning back in.
“We still need to think of something to do other than going outside, this is too cold for me, I think,”
“Oh? Is your juice freezing?” MePhone looked at the cup, a bit worried.
“No, no, not uh, not yet at least, but still, y’know.”
“Yeah, the cold makes me a bit uncomfortable too, anyways.” He shrugs.
“What about… uh… hm.” OJ paused, trying to think.
“We could always just sit in and watch stuff on the TV or something, make hot chocolate-- uh, warm stuff?” MePhone shrugged again, as OJ laughed.
“Warm stuff?”
"Wh- whatever! Shut up, I don't see you coming up with anything either!" MePhone playfully pushed OJ away a bit, scoffing.
"Okay, okay, fine I get it, um, but your suggestion sounds fine, getting all warm together and just hanging out? I mean, I can do that just by saying stuff to you, but y'know,"
"Yeah well, uh-- you're not the only one who can make someone flustered!"
"Oh yeah? Walk me through how you're gonna fluster me then." OJ challenged, smirking. MePhone stopped in his tracks, huffing, as he leaned in, kissing the other. Well, yeah, that sure as hell worked, as OJ immediately grew flustered.
"Yeah? See?" MePhone stepped back, crossing his arms.
"Fine! I get it," OJ put his hands up in playful defeat, accepting this as a 'fail' on his end.
Eventually the cold was getting a bit too much, so the two made their way back to the hotel, retreating to their room to snuggle together in the blankets. The two stayed like this for a bit, enjoying the silence, before MePhone spoke, a mischievous tone to his voice;
"You could always show me where those keys in your key collection lead to,"
"Oh my Gods, I thought you would have forgotten about that by now," OJ groaned, immediately putting his face in his hands, embarrassed. MePhone couldn't help but laugh.
He was glad for this distraction. He could worry about the letters again later. For now though, this was just what he needed.

…

4S left the lab after a while, helping just a little bit, before realizing this heavy work was not something he was fond of, opting to leave it to TestTube, and Taco. She had left it up to if he wanted to help or not, so he didn’t feel bad for not wanting to. He still needed to figure out where most of his suspicions were, towards who had opened that box. He understood why MePhone was freaked out about this-- it seemed like a major breach of privacy, really. Anybody would be upset by that, surely, but there was also still the option that someone in the hotel unintentionally came across it, and got just a little bit too curious. He’d have to go back to the cave to look for any clues, to see if anything else around that area was suspicious, but until then, he was going to keep alert of what the people around the hotel were to say, if anyone would bring it up. So he went back to the hotel, after standing outside for a bit, taking in the cool air. Knife, and Pickle were on the couch today, playing what looked like… a fighting game? That peaked his interest, as he moved to sit down beside the two.
“Welcome back,” Knife let out, his full attention on the game. After a moment of figuring out who was playing what character, it looked like he was losing. After a few rounds, he was offered a controller. 4S raised an eyebrow, looking at Knife, then up at the game.
“If I get too angry, it’s not my fault.” 4S shrugged, taking the controller.
“Yeah, well just don’t be bad, it’s not that hard,” Pickle smirked, his tone clearly lighthearted.
“After watching you two play for a bit, I’m sure I won’t be as bad as Knife.” He joked, giving the utensil a smirk as he chose his character.Pickle couldn’t help but laugh at that.
“I’m totally going to beat your ass for that one,” Knife elbowed the phone, as the round started.
“Yeah, yeah. I’d love to see you try with that skill level.” He made another jab, hoping the two would realize he was only mostly joking around. They thankfully seemed to realize this, or at least, they weren’t seeming actually offended or anything. 4S figured they both seemed like the type to point it out if he went too far, and neither of them did. So that was a good sign.
4S picked up the move set a lot quicker than either Knife, or Pickle had expected, proving to be a worthy opponent for the both of them as they all kept making jabs at each other.
“Wow, you’re a lot better than MePhone was his first time playing something like this,”
“Well, when he was playing with us, it was that racing game. That’s a bit different.”
“You say that like he’d even last a minute in this game.”
“Fair enough.” Knife chuckled, before letting out a swear as his character was flung out of the round, losing his last life of the session.
4S was… Enjoying this, to say the least. This seemed to be a very good way to let out his pent up anger, and for once, he wasn’t getting angry or upset at the fact he was losing any of the rounds. This was just plain fun, really. That was something he hadn’t felt in… Oh wow, it had been so long, hadn’t it… He enjoyed this. Maybe he’d try to game with the two more often. Yeah. That sounded like a good idea.

Chapter Text

Taco huffed, stepping out of the lab after a hard day of manual labor with TestTube. Of course, Taco wasn’t weak, she could handle a little construction, but Gods was it boring, and time consuming. Annoying, really. Though, now that she was out of the lab, she had another problem that came up today, making itself incredibly obvious. She was a prime suspect in invading MePhone’s privacy. Of course, after everything that had happened in the past, and with how shady she was, she’d blame herself too, if she were guilty! Which, well…
But that wasn’t the point! She was being accused, and the others were suspicious of her, and she wasn’t going to stand by that. So she had to try to do something to prove her innocence. She’d have to do something to make sure she wasn’t making herself look any more suspicious, while also trying to possibly throw the shade onto someone else, to lessen the eyes on her. This would be hard, but she had a good reason… As twisted as it was.
She returned to the hotel, glancing over to the three on the couch, 4S actually having joined the gaming session for once. She didn’t bother to look at the other two, opting to head to her own room. She had a scheme to set up.

…

“Who do you think, at this hotel, would have it out for you.” 4S slammed his hands down on the table, MePhone flinching back a little, annoyed at his brother’s approach.
“Am I the one being interrogated here?? That’s what this feels like.” He let out, a bit sheepish as the two sat at the kitchen table.
“I’m just trying to help get to the bottom of this. Who in this hotel, seems like someone who would want to wrong you, or use the information from those letters against you.” His approach of keeping this on the downlow had not been working out in the day he spent after, not getting any leads, had not been going so well, so he was going to try to be open about his plans with MePhone, in his own way.
“... I don’t want to say Taco, but… She’s pretty much the only one I can think of. Any other object that I can think of that doesn’t like me had no idea this box even existed, or even about the cave.” MePhone sighed out, crossing his arms over the table. “The objects that DO know about the cave, or have been in there, are all unlikely… Um, why are you asking me this stuff anyways?”
“This is something we need to get to the bottom of. Someone could be scheming against you.” MePhone frowned at that idea, knowing just what his brother was insinuating.
“I- I don’t know why anyone here would even… want to do something like that, after everything.” MePhone quickly dismissed the idea, rolling his eyes. He didn’t want another reason to be paranoid.
“What about that vial? Would she be a likely suspect?”
“TestTube? No, she wouldn’t.” MePhone gaze fell down to the table, clearly recalling the letter incident, his expression souring just a bit. He wasn’t mad at her, he never really was, of course, but the experience was still very unfavorable to think about.
“Hm. so Taco is currently our only… real suspect then.”
“I heard it’s rude to be talking about someone behind their back.” A voice called out, MePhone jolting, and 4S swinging around, to see Taco leaning in the entryway to the kitchen.
“You are not included in this conversation. Scram.” 4S frowned at the smaller individual, who just let out a huff.
“I just don’t see why I’m the ‘clear suspect’ here when say, someone could have stumbled across the box on their own?”
“You realize you’re just making yourself more suspicious? What do you want, anyways.” 4S lowered his shades a bit, to let Taco know he had narrowed his eyes. She would just roll hers, and move over to the table, taking a seat to insert herself in the conversation.
“I just want to help is all, this case has piqued my interest, is all.” Surely, if she got herself involved, she’d be able to help dissuade any suspicion on herself.
“What, because you’re guilty?”
“And what if I am? What if I’m the one who read those letters, hm? What is the end goal of this, anyways?”
“To find out who’s invaded my privacy, that’s what.” MePhone frowned, unhappy with Taco involving herself.
“If you’re the one who read those letters, well, first, we’d lose all trust for you, as little as that is--”
“Wow, thanks.”
“And then we would interrogate you until you told us what your intent was with this knowledge, to see if you were plotting against us, or something.” 4S kept glaring down at Taco, who just sighed.
“So are you the one who--” MePhone looked over at Taco.
“I’m not, MePhone. It was a hypothetical. That being said, I’m sure you’ve already done some talking. Who else is on the suspects list?”
“... It’s just you.”
Taco sighed. This was going to be a long, and annoying process.
4S stared at her as the three almost bickered away about this, trying to figure out her angle with all of this. She was annoying, and shifty, but most of all, she was good at it. Though she was definitely still suspicious, she was doing a damn good job during their conversations to make it seem like she wasn’t. Eventually, as this wasn’t getting anywhere, really, 4S huffed, getting out of his seat, and moving over to MePhone, carefully grabbing his wrist, and leading him away. Taco was a frustrating object to be around, and to try to figure out, so he was going to do something else for the time being. He led MePhone out of the hotel, glaring back at Taco, who stared at them as he moved to close the doors behind the two, almost as a challenge for her to follow. She thankfully stayed right where she was. He’d have to make sure she wasn’t following them.
“Okay, well a little warning would’ve been nice,” MePhone yanked his arm away, letting out a huff.
“Sorry. Needed to get away. We’re getting nowhere, going around in circles with that culinary disaster. I need to go back to the cave to look for clues, but I er… I don’t exactly know where the spot was,”
“So you need me to show you…” MePhone let out a groan, a bit annoyed that he’d both have to go back there so soon, and at the idea of the long trek over to that area.
“As soon as we figure this out, I won’t bring you back here, okay? I know this is a rough area for you, but we need to find this out.”
“I… I understand, you don’t need to negotiate with me, okay? Let’s just get this over with again.” MePhone shuffled a bit in his spot.
“Yes. The sooner the better.” 4S would nod, taking the lead. He at least knew where the cave entrance was, he just needed help finding the area inside, was all.

.
.
.

So the two made it back to the cave, heading in, to figure this out, 4S just having to hope there were any clues. He knew MePhone was never really the detail oriented type, so he was going to have to pick up the slack between the two, and really scan the area. And as the two approached, that’s what he did, searching every nook and cranny, behind rocks, or in crevices, MePhone just sighing, and standing by. The only things being found were the ripped open envelopes, and some sort of small metal tool.
“Do you recognize what this is?” 4S held it up to his brother. MePhone just shrugged.
“We could always take this, and the envelopes over to TestTube and see if she can do some science-y stuff, or whatever.”
“... Like fingerprints, that’s actually a good idea, I’m surprised it came out of you,” 4S grinned, teasing. MePhone rolled his eyes, not actually offended; “Gee, thanks.”
“I’ll go do that then. No need for you to come with me,”
“Why not? I haven’t bothered TestTube in a while, it might be fun to go down there with you,” He grinned.
“Ah, well… okay.” 4S said, almost lamely. He didn’t actually want MePhone to go down there, in risk of figuring out they were planning on infiltrating Meeple. That was the last thing he needed his brother to figure out. 4S grabbed the ripped open envelopes, and the small tool, holding them all close, as the two walked out, headed for the vial’s lab.
“I’ll er… I’ll head down first, to warn her of her impending distraction.” 4S pressed the button, glad at the fact the door would close behind him, requiring MePhone to have to press it himself, at least giving him a few seconds to warn TestTube to hide any Meeple mission things-- and that’s just what he did, watching as TestTube ran over to her laptop, closing a few tabs, and opening a different one, and then throwing a tarp she just seemed to have at the ready for some reason, over some of the ship parts, just in time for MePhone to land on the pillow.
“You’re here to bother me, huh?” TestTube huffed, leaning on the counter, a bit out of breath from all the sudden movement she had to do.
“Uh, I mean, it sounded funnier when I used the word bothered, but I guess just visiting is fine,” MePhone shrugged. TestTube quickly regained her composure as to not seem off, or suspicious, as she offered up a kind smile. She could use a distraction from all the work Taco left her with, anyways. A break sounded good.

.
.
.

“Listen, Taco, leading off a conversation with ‘hey do you know about MePhone’s secret box’ is super weird, you know that, right? How someone could take that the wrong way?” Microphone leaned back on the bed, raising an almost confused eyebrow at the smaller girl.
“Well yes, but it was a genuine question. He and OJ had me unlock a box a while ago, and now someone’s gone through it, and they’re trying to figure out who.”
“... Did you--”
“I did not. Goodness, everyone’s just playing the blame game with me, I’m starting to get tired of it.” Taco rolled her eyes, leaning back on her own bed.
“Well to be fair--”
“I know, I know. You don’t need to give me a dozen different reasons as to why it could be me, okay?”
“Yeah, okay… But the list would definitely be longer than a dozen,” Microphone teased.
“Oh, it’s like you don’t trust me at all! I’m so insulted!” Taco feigned insult, flopping back on her bed with a dramatic sigh.
“Why do you think someone would go through his box anyways?”
“I don’t know,”
“Did you know what was in it?”
“Unfortunately, no.”
“You opened the box for them, and you didn’t see what was inside?” Mic raised an eyebrow, not understanding how that worked.
“They walked out as soon as I got it unlocked for them. I didn’t even receive proper payment for the task! It was insulting, really! Leaving me insatiably curious, AND without payment was just rude.” Taco huffed, still annoyed about that, as if she weren’t getting her own payback for all that.
“... Who do you think did it then, if it wasn’t you?” Microphone was genuinely curious now.
“Well, really, nobody here is likely enough, meaning it could very well be anyone. I’m sure it’s not you, at the very least though.”
“Wow, I’m so honored I’m not on the suspect list,” Microphone smirked, a bit amused.
“Though you could just be very good at lying to me.” Taco deadpanned, her tone completely serious.
It was silent for a moment between the two of them, before they both started to laugh at this.
Yeah. This was going to be easier than she thought.

…

“So run it by me again, you want me to do, and I quote; ‘sciency stuff’ to figure out who touched this half of a lockpick set, to see who touched it?” TestTube put a glove on, to not add her fingerprints to the item, as she held it.
“It’s a lockpick?”
“Well, yes. Where did you find this?” TestTube took it, and the ripped up envelopes with her into one of the side rooms of the lab, both of the phone’s following her.
“In the cave. We were searching for clues. Is there anyone in the hotel who owns lockpicking tools?”
4S raised an eyebrow, as MePhone and TestTube glanced at each other.
“We need to go talk to Taco again.” MePhone huffed out. He was starting to get aggravated at all this running around.
“I’ll check for fingerprints, while you two do that, how does that sound?”
“Yeah, okay, but you’re coming up to tell us the results, I’m not running all the way back down here just to find out.”
“Yes, yes, okay. I need the exercise anyway, so I don’t mind.”

So MePhone and 4S once again made their exit, now traveling back to the hotel, making their way up to Taco’s room. 4S didn’t even knock, swinging open the door, to see she wasn’t alone in the room, the object he recognized as Microphone, from the pictures, and from mentions from Knife, sitting on the other bed in the room. Both of the girls looked at 4S, confused.
“We were in the middle of a civil conversation. That, and it’s rude not to knock. Maybe try that entrance again?” Taco scoffed, annoyed at this.
“No time. You. Are you missing any of your lockpick tools.” 4S stepped further into the room, MePhone staying back in the hallway.
“No? They’re all always kept very neatly in their set, in my drawer. You can check, if you’re really so suspicious. I have nothing to hide.” This frustrated 4S. Not that she was being willing, that was good, so they wouldn’t have to do this the hard way, but… well, yeah. She was willing. A little bit too much, and it was annoying. So he stepped over to the bedside table, yanking open the drawer, and pulling out the lockpicking tool set, sprawling it out on the bed, to look at all the pouches, and annoyingly enough, every piece was there.
“Why did you need to check, anyways?”
“We found a lockpick in the-- uhm. Um. In the-- where the box had been opened,” MePhone piped in from the hallway, scrambling over his words a bit as he saved it, trying not to give away any prime details about where the box HAD been.
“That is odd. Hm. If I had to think of anyone else who would have tools like mine, I’d say… Well… hm. I’d have to think about that, or ask around. I’m sure I’m not the only one in this hotel… What about Lightbulb? OJ is constantly getting on her case for getting into rooms she shouldn’t even have access to.”
“Yeah, but I’m sure she wouldn’t have any malicious intent… It’s Lightbulb we’re talking about.” Microphone raised an eyebrow, noticing how Taco was shifting the blame.
“It wouldn’t hurt to ask her, then,” Taco shrugged.
4S huffed, clearly displeased by this also seeming to be a dead end. As he and MePhone made their way out, and down to the lobby, 4S figured he’d just have to hope the handprints led somewhere. For now though, they were going to ask Lightbulb a few questions.

.
.
.

“Heya, what’s up?” Lightbulb smiled, standing on her tippy toes to reach a cabinet in the kitchen, pulling out a snack. MePhone raised an eyebrow at this;
“Didn’t OJ ban you from the kitchen for a while to get you to stop snatching snacks?”
“Oh, he told you about that? Ehehe… He doesn’t need to know,” Lightbulb winked, opening the bag of chips she had snagged. “Er-- uh, you’re not gonna tell him, right?” Lightbulb looked at MePhone, who just shrugged.
“I’m not a snitch or anything… I’d do the same thing, anyways.” He grinned, stepping over to take one of the chips out of the bag. 4S cleared his throat.
“Oh right, whatta you guys need?” Lightbulb leaned back on the counter.
“Do you own any lockpicking tools?”
“Oh yeah, of course, who doesn’t?” Lightbulb raised an eyebrow, curious as to where this was headed.
“Can we see your kit then? If you’re missing any?”
“Oh yeah, sure, why not?” Lightbulb shrugged, kicking off from the counter; “Let’s head back to my room then? That’s uh-- that’s where they are, I’m not being weird or anything,” Lightbulb clarified, before adding on; “Unless this is a weird situation, where you need me to be weird. Then I can be.”
“I think you’re already doing that.” MePhone sighed, a bit exasperated. He had forgotten how high energy the bulb was. He definitely needs a nap, or time to relax after getting dragged into all this. Really, he didn’t want to care about the letters anymore, or whoever read them. So what? He… was in jail now, so he couldn’t hurt either of them anymore! None of the objects in the hotel would stoop so low as to plot against them, so what was the point? It was probably just someone finding the box, and letters, and being curious. At least, that’s what he wanted to hope it was.
“Actually, I think we can just honestly ask you, have you been to the Gem cave at all lately?” MePhone spoke, as the three stood outside Lightbulb’s room, her opening the door for the two.
“Nah, the rocks there don’t taste good anymore, so I stopped going there a few months ago.”
“Excuse me, what was that part about rocks?” 4S wasn’t about to let that weird sentence slide.
“Don’t worry about it, dude, the rocks by the dock taste much better. They have that salty, sand taste to them. That extra grain really adds to it--”
“Okay, okay. I er… Okay. That explains a lot.” He just sighed out, as Lightbulb went over to the closet, opening it, and taking out a box, shuffling through it for a moment.
“Huh,” She let out, her tone a bit caught off guard.
“What is it?”
“I’m missing one of my tools,” She turned her head, looking back at the two, MePhone’s expression immediately growing uneasy, 4S just tensing up a bit. With how shady this all was, with all these twists and turns, neither MePhone, or 4S could deny it, that something malicious was brewing.

…

A few rings of a phone, ringing and ringing, like it wouldn’t be answered, but eventually someone did answer. The voice on the other end was muffled, hard to make out.
“Yes, I’m sure. Things are going just as planned.” The muffled voice spoke a reply.
“Yes, yes. I’ll make sure they don’t find any more suspicion in me. I’ll lay low…”
Silence, for just a moment, before the muffled voice asked a question.
“Yes, progress on that is going, too. I’ll have just what you need soon, don’t worry. Everything is going to work out just fine.” The object who had answered held a grin on their face as the muffled voice said one more thing, before hanging up.
This was going better than she could have imagined. Really, it was nothing personal, more of an offer she just couldn’t refuse. Surely, if she were ever found out, the rest of the hotel would come to understand why she was doing this eventually.

Chapter Text

MePhone was woken up early in the morning by several knocks on the door to his and OJ's room, his screen flickering on with a groan. It was too early for this, he decided as he checked the time, reluctantly getting up and out of his bed to go answer the door. He yawned as it opened, being met with 4S, who stood with his hands on his hips, his foot tapping against the floor, showing he was clearly impatient with the time he took to get up.
"What do you want?" MePhone asked, just a bit annoyed with being woken up like this.
"We have to get started early today. With TestTubes fingerprint result giving us nothing, we need to work extra hard to figure this out."
MePhone shuffled a bit in his spot, leaning against the open doorway, barely awake at the moment, still very sleepy.
"I don't know if you've noticed this about me, but the term 'work extra hard' doesn't sound like something I want to do, especially this early in the morning, when half of the hotel is probably still asleep."
"But--"
"Listen, don't take this the wrong way please, I don't… want to be involved in this?" He shrugged a bit, glancing to the side. "I don't need another thing to worry about. That, and I'm still exhausted from running around yesterday. I don't have this in me today."
"But this could be serious!" 4S didn't understand how his brother was being so… relaxed about this? Their lives could be in danger.
"Yeah, but also, it might not be! Just… okay, all I ask, all I'm going to ask, is you take a few days just thinking about it. Take it easy today? I dunno, maybe you'll get your answer while you aren't even searching, or something I don't know, just…" MePhone yawned again. What 4S got from this, was that MePhone clearly thought he was paranoid. He huffed, crossing his arms. Of course his brother wasn't taking this seriously… A day or two of taking things slow? When something was clearly going on? No way.
"Gah! Whatever. I don't need your help anyways! I'll figure this out, and prove you wrong!"
"Yeah, yeah, okay. Just go back to your room, or the lobby before OJ sees you and complains to me about you being unattended." MePhone huffed out, stepping back into his room to shut the door, presumably ready to go back to sleep for a bit longer.

…

4S sat on the couch, his arms crossed, clearly annoyed. He didn’t want to ‘take it easy’ when something was clearly going on, but he… didn’t have any leads. The most suspicious object didn’t even seem that guilty, and the object who’s tool was actually used, well… She definitely wouldn’t have any malicious intent. So he sat grumpily on the couch, until after a few hours-- it was still way too early in the morning when he originally woke up, that Knife sat down next to him, clicking on the TV.
“OJ’s gonna be on my ass if you keep going off unattended, y’know.” Knife spoke casually, not actually seeming bothered, as he leaned on the opposite arm of the couch.
“It’s not like I’m doing anything malicious, or bad, unlike somebody in this hotel.”
“Huh? I-”
“Not you. To clarify. It’s something else.” 4S quickly cut the knife off, who just glanced over with a raised eyebrow.
“What’s going on now?”
“It’s… not anything you need to be concerned about.”
“Ok.” He shrugged, turning his gaze back to the TV. The two just sat there for a bit, mostly in silence as the sound of the TV kept them both occupied enough. As this silence occupied the space, 4S was… thinking. Maybe it would help to get Knife involved? He does seem quite perceptive, and could be good for an intimidation angle if needed… Yeah. He could be good help, but obviously he couldn’t just explain it all out in the open, so he had to get Knife somewhere else to approach him about this. So he got up from the couch, making direct eye-contact, before walking away, and out of the hotel. As the doors shut behind him, he could hear Knife let out an aggravated sigh. Sure enough, about a minute later, he stepped out.
“You could’ve just asked me to follow you if you needed to talk about something. What is it?” Knife crossed his arms.
“Sorry. Needed privacy for this. That being said, MePhone’s privacy was violated, and I think it’s a serious matter that needs to be figured out.”
“What do you mean his privacy was violated? Did someone catch him doing something embarrassing or something? Because I’m pretty sure that’s just how he is all the time.”
“No! This is serious, Knife. I’m not paranoid for nothing.” 4S pointed a finger in the blade’s face, who lightly slapped it away.
“They were letters. I only read two of them-- with his permission, of course, but someone else has also read them.”
“So are the letters something embarrassing then? I don’t get it?”
“No, just listen. They’re from c- from.. Er, our creator.” He gestured outwards, Knife’s eyebrows raising a bit in both understanding, and further confusion.
“What.”
“I know. He’s not told anyone about them, other than OJ, and TestTube, and of course Taco knows about them because she got herself involved, but beyond that, we don’t… Have any leads, or clues. The only clues we did find, led us to dead ends.”
“Huh. honestly if anyone in that list were to be guilty, it’s Taco.”
“Yes, but she’s not given us any actual reasons for us to suspect her, other than having lockpicking tools, and even then, the tool we did find by the box had no handprints, and wasn’t from her set.”
“Who’s set was it from-- Why does anyone other than her have lockpicking tools?” Knife was genuinely curious.
“Lightbulb, but she’s not a suspect.”
“Yeah, fair enough… honestly not surprised she has something like that actually… So why her tools then?”
“I… Don’t know. Whoever this is, they’re hiding their tracks.”
“So that makes it harder on us. What’s the plan then?”
“I… I’ve been advised to relax today, so that’s what I’m trying to do. Rather than worrying about this.” 4S sighed, glancing away, just a bit annoyed that his brother wasn’t taking this more seriously, but… As he hadn’t really been doing much today, he realized he wasn’t really up for trying to solve a mystery today anyways… But he didn’t really want to just go sit down again either… But that’s what they ended up doing for the time being as they headed back into the hotel. The two returned to the couch. He wanted to go do this, to chase the lead, knowing that Taco was surely out today helping with the ship, and that killing time if something was happening he had to get to the bottom of it soon, but he was told to relax, so that’s what he had to do.
Knife definitely noticed his discomfort at just sitting there, killing time.
“Y’know, I know you were told to relax, but it doesn’t look like you’re doing a great job at that.”
“Because I’m not relaxed. Was it that obvious?” 4S shuffled where he sat, clearly growing impatient. He hated just sitting there, not having anything to do, or focus on.
“Why do you just… Do everything people tell you to do? It’s… kinda weird.”
“What?”
“You know, making your own choices is more important than what other people want you to do, right?”
“I… yes?” He lied, Knife rolling his eyes as his tone gave him away.
“You really need to loosen up, dude.”
“I know. You told me that before, and I’ve been trying.”
“... Because I told you? Is that the only reason?”
“You’re the one who asked??” 4S was growing increasingly confused.
“Oh wow you’re a pushover,” Knife almost seemed amused.
“Excuse me?” 4S stood up from the couch, clearly insulted.
“I- Hey, I didn’t mean anything bad, I just… Well, it’s not a great thing, but you really need to stop doing everything people tell you to, or at least-- don’t take every word so seriously, okay?”
“With that logic, saying I shouldn’t take stuff so seriously, why should I take what you’re telling me seriously.” 4S frowned, sitting back down, not grasping this concept.
“Oh Gods you’re absolutely impossible.” Knife couldn’t help but chuckle. “There’s a difference between doing everything someone tells you to do, and taking advice, or listening to someone once in a while. It really depends on what’s being said or asked. For example, MePhone told you to relax, and stop focusing on this ‘impending trouble’ but you’re not a big fan of that idea, are you?”
“Well… Now that I sit and think about it, the angle of taking it slow might help, but I don’t just want to sit around doing nothing. I… As important as this is, the idea of just not worrying about it-- if not just for today, sounds alright to me.” 4S sighed, Knife shrugging.
“We can do something else then. The question now is what do YOU want to do? I can go along with anything. I’m here to hang out.” Knife sat there, giving the phone patience as he thought to himself.
“I… Think I have a few ideas.” 4S smiled a bit.

…

MePhone yawned, leaning on the entryway to the art room, this yawn catching Paintbrush’s attention, who had just gotten there a few moments prior, and was setting up for an art class they were going to hold later that evening. They looked up at him with a raised eyebrow, waiting for him to say something.
“Are you any good at interior decoration?” Was not what Paintbrush thought MePhone was going to lead a conversation with, but sure enough, that’s what he asked them.
“Um?? Not really?” They were even more confused now. “Why are you asking me?”
“I dunno, you’re the most artistic one here, right? I wanted to do something nice for OJ, give his office some pizazz, because well, I dunno if you’ve ever been in there, but it’s so boring.”
“That’s a terrible idea, MePhone. Also, who says ‘pizazz’ anymore?”
“Is it? I think it’s a great idea.” He grinned, still shaking off the tired feeling, since he had just woken up. “That, and I’m sure plenty of people still use ‘pizazz’.” Paintbrush rolled their eyes at this.
“Listen, I’m sure you have good intent with that whole office redecoration but this is OJ we’re talking about. Not to be mean, but his entire personality IS being bland. Of course his office is going to reflect that.”
“He’s not that boring, to be fair,” MePhone defended, crossing his arms.
“Be honest with yourself, the only reason you’re saying that is because you’re used to his personality now… That, or his boring-ness has spread to you, too,” Paintbrush smirked, obviously joking around. MePhone scoffed.
“I’m not boring!”
“I was joking, MePhone, don’t worry about it. Anyways, yeah. Maybe don’t mess with his office?”
MePhone stared at them.
“You’re going to do it with or without my help, aren’t you.” Paintbrush sighed, placing the paint can they were moving down.
“Yeah.”
“Gods, fine. I’ll come along and help you, or at least just make sure you don’t royally mess things up in his office. I wanna see how this plays out, anyways.” Paintbrush sighed, following as MePhone turned, heading to the cup’s office. Thankfully, for once, he was elsewhere in the hotel, doing something that didn’t concern MePhone at the moment, giving him the time to get this done.
“Wow you weren’t kidding, this room is really bland.” Paintbrush’s eyebrows raised in almost disbelief, not having completely believed in MePhone claiming it was this bad.
“Yeah, see? It could use some decoration.”
“You could always do something seasonal, since winter is coming up, y’know.”
“That’d be too… predictable. That, and seasonal stuff has effort put into it. I’d have to come back and change it when it turned spring, and… y’know,” MePhone shrugged, stepping to examine one of the walls in the room.
“You’re too lazy for that. Got it. You could always put some paintings up, or pictures or something, I dunno,” Paintbrush shrugged, also looking at one of the walls.
“Posters? Is OJ actually into anything or is all he ever talks about with you hotel management stuff?”
“Well you wouldn’t believe this, but he’s actually really well read,”
“What, like a book nerd?”
“Yeah! Surprising, isn’t it?” MePhone was joking around, obviously not meaning this in a mean way at all. Paintbrush let out an amused huff. “Wonder what he would say if he heard you saying that about him. Hm, does he have a favorite book that he talks about at all?”
“Er, uh, not really, we don’t talk about it much, him reading a lot in his free time doesn’t usually come up in conversation, so…” MePhone shrugged.
“You could always ask him,”
“And risk him getting suspicious? No way. This has to be a surprise.”
“Well, you could just put up paintings, or pictures like I suggested.”
“But that’s boring!”
“You say those are boring choices but you probably can’t even think of anything better.” Paintbrush sighed, glancing over to the phone, who frowned. They were right. This was yet another case of him wanting to do something special for his boyfriend-- but not having a single clue what to actually do.
“What if we put up streamers, or those funky wall liners with the patterns?”
“What, like those silly ones you’d see in an elementary school classroom? That doesn’t seem like OJ’s vibe.”
“Yeah, but it’d be funny.”
Paintbrush sighed at this.
“You’re really bad at this. Look, I’ll just say this now, it’s not like you’re going to be able to do much, considering you can’t just redecorate this whole room without OJ throwing a fit about it or something, so just put up something on the wall, or something. It doesn’t need to be something big, just y’know, you wanted this to be a nice gesture, right?”
“Yeah.” MePhone sighed. They had a point, and MePhone didn’t want to admit that.
“Where would I even… hm.” MePhone really hadn’t thought this out. “Wait, right, I can just…” MePhone paused for a moment, focusing, as he generated something. This was going to be fun.

…

OJ hummed to himself, finishing up cleaning the dishes from breakfast, as he wiped his hands on the kitchen towel, ready to go get some work on his book done, if just for a bit. He had been making very good progress with it lately, but he still hadn’t really told anyone about it yet, he was wondering who to ask for proofreading. Sure, he’d ask MePhone, since he could trust him with anything, but, well… MePhone didn’t seem like the kind of object that really liked to read-- which, well, he didn’t mean that in a mean way, just in the way that MePhone much preferred audio, and visual media, and that certainly wasn’t a bad thing. OJ, on the other hand, enjoyed reading, and well, writing his own stories, but all that usually took a backseat to his current work, and passion, being a hotel manager. Which was a choice he made for himself, but sometimes he did wish he could just take it easy, and not have to worry about any of it anymore, but, well… That didn’t matter. He didn’t need that life when he had everything he needed right here. But that was the beauty of writing, really. Able to make characters that can live the life he can’t. He liked that. He shook off his wandering thoughts as he opened the door to his office, flicking on the lightswitch, and… promptly stopping in his tracks. His office had been… decorated? There was a string of multi-coloured lights lining the tops of the walls in the room, and a few pictures placed up on the usually empty walls. He walked over, looking at each and every one, most of them being pictures of events that had happened on MePhone’s show, but one of the pictures, one that was placed on the other wall, was of him, and MePhone. So that explains who did this. OJ let out an amused huff, stepping over to his desk, where a post-it note was placed on top of the journal he wrote all of his stuff in. He’d unstick it from the journal, reading it.
‘Haha got you, hope you like it, if not, don’t be too mad, but also if you’re angry paintbrush was also involved so its not entirely my fault’ and there was an arrow to the back of the note, because he had ran out of writing space, so OJ flipped it over to an ‘love you <3’ scribbled on the back. As unexpected as this was, he was glad it wasn’t anything more extreme, but also, he really did appreciate the gesture. He’d talk to MePhone about this later, but now, he was in a writing mood, so he set aside the post-it, not wanting to discard it, as he opened his journal.

.

.

.

It was a little later, when there was a knock on the door, OJ pausing his work, and carefully closing the journal, before calling out;
“Come in,”
The door opened, 4S and Knife stepped into the room.
“Did… something happen?” OJ immediately assumed the worst, which 4S just scoffed.
“You have to assume something happened? I’m not out here causing trouble.” He crossed his arms.
“Yeah, uh, sorry, what is it then?”
“We’re heading to the mainland tomorrow.
“... Okay? Are you sure that’s a good idea? Not that I’m stopping you or anything, because you guys can make your own choices, but..?”
“But nothing. We will be fine. I want to explore, and not be stuck in this shitty hotel all the time.”
OJ frowned at this, 4S realizing his wording.
“Er, no offense.” He quickly added, trying to salvage it. OJ just sighed.
“Okay, just… Uh, stay safe you two, okay?”
“Of course.” 4S would nod, before the both of them left. As they shut the door, OJ let out a breath he didn’t know he was holding. He didn’t know why that was so stressful, but he certainly didn’t appreciate the insult to his hotel… But he shrugged it off, not wanting to take it too personally, as he opened the journal again, returning to the few minutes of writing he had left, before he’d have to go prepare dinner.

…

TestTube sighed, pulling a bit away from the hard work she had been at all day. She, and Taco were making good progress on the exterior of the ship. Even after the Meeple mission, she was sure this ship could be very good to use for basic transportation, as well. Yeah. She glanced over to Taco, who was still tightening a bolt. Once she was done, she paused, looking over at the vial.
“Hm?”
“Oh, nothing, we’ve just been at this all morning, a break would probably be fine.”
“Good enough for me.” Taco huffed, getting up and stepping away from what she had been doing, placing her tool back on the table. As the two sat, just taking a bit to rest from the manual labor, TestTube took this opportunity to speak.
“This can stay between us, and I won’t tell anyone else if you’re honest with me, but did you read the letters?”
Taco raised an eyebrow, just a bit caught off guard by this question. She thought about it for a moment, before answering.
“I didn’t. Honestly, I don’t think it really matters who did, right? I mean, anyone would be curious, right? I wouldn’t blame whoever did, really.”
“... I suppose you’re right. I hate to admit it, but I would’ve read them too, if I had the chance.”
Taco smiled a bit at this, glad that someone understood, even if… Well, she didn’t need to think about it. This was about the Meeple mission. Nothing more at the moment.
The two ended up taking an hour break, Taco going back up to the hotel to get herself something to eat, even bringing TestTube down something as well, before the two continued.
There was still so much work to be done.
The Meeple mission was so much more important than any of the others knew, after all.

Chapter Text

4S shuffled in his seat, clearly nervous. This was… new. He had certainly never been on a boat before, and he had certainly never been in a genuine social situation like walking around in public before, having had to spend his days up in Meeple. This was… new, and just a bit stressful, but he wasn’t going to let that ruin his day. Or Knife’s. He was here too, much more composed, not bothered at all as he rowed the boat, doing so, so 4S wouldn’t risk getting any water on himself. TestTube had claimed to make him at least a bit more waterproof than his original model, making that precaution because of an incident she didn’t need to specify, but he still didn’t like the idea of being this close to water, realizing that if this boat went down, he’d probably die. That was a scary thought, but he was sure he was hiding his discomfort well, as Knife didn’t make any comments on it. That, or he just didn’t notice because he was busy rowing. Eventually, the two made it to the mainland, and 4S stepped off the boat as soon as he could, wobbling just a bit to regain his balance, glancing over to Knife, who got off with no problems. He was just so good at this, huh.
“So? Probably should’ve actually asked this before we left, but do you have any outside world experience?”
“... No.” 4S was honest.
“Great. Just don’t be a dick to strangers, and we should be fine. Don’t go picking fights either. Doing that out here could land you in jail or something, and I don’t want to have to go back to the hotel and explain that to OJ.”
“I will try.”
Knife sighed. “Guess that’s as good as it’s gonna get. What’s the plan?”
“... I don’t actually know what’s here in this… town? I… er, I suppose we could walk, and see what there is.”
“Ok.” Knife crossed his arms, before taking the lead, 4S following. Neither of them really spoke much, before the two found themselves outside of a park, and 4S stopped walking. Today was surprisingly not too cold, despite it nearing winter, or at least, it was much warmer than it normally was, which meant this was actually a nice day outside. So 4S wasn’t too opposed to the idea of just hanging out outside-- not that the cold would’ve ruined that idea for him either, but as Knife stopped too, 4S took the lead, walking into the park area.
“Hm. What is there to do in places like this?”
“I dunno, parks like this are usually where people just walk around and look at plants, or to take things slow.” Knife shrugged as the two came to a stop, 4S taking a second to admire the plant life-- which, well, considering the cold weather, it was mostly just grass, but there were a few flowers that had survived, not being bothered by the colder weather. Knife let out a small chuckle, as 4S crouched down, examining the plants.
“You’re a real big nature fan, huh?”
“I was just-- er… I dunno. Looking at the plants, like suggested. This is a lot more boring than I expected.” 4S sighed, standing back up. Knife stepped over to stand by his side, picking one of the flowers, handing it to 4S, who stood there, incredibly confused.
“Now you can look at it on the go, and we can move onto something that isn’t ‘boring’.” Knife shrugged, thinking nothing more of it. 4S was completely silent for a moment, almost stunned, before finally speaking; “yes. Onto something less boring. Y- you lead the way.” 4S tried his damn hardest to ignore how his screen heated up, not understanding why, or why his posture had tensed up at that… That was weird, right? He examined the flower, twirling it a bit in his hands as the two walked, making their way out of the park, to hopefully find something less boring to do.
Yeah. That was weird. If this feeling persisted, he’d probably have to talk to TestTube about it.

…

MePhone sat on the couch, leaning against the arm of it, as he and Blueberry were watching another one of those cooking shows. This one was different from the last one, it was one of those shows where someone went to a restaurant and totally ripped apart said restaurant’s service and employees, and MePhone always thought shows like this were funny, but today, it wasn’t really the vibe, and as he glanced over at Blueberry, it seemed he wasn’t really into it either. His expression was always the same, but over time, during their own baking sessions, he was able to pick up on the small things that changed, and though it was usually always a frown, or completely neutral, it was just slightly a deeper frown than usual. So MePhone took the initiative, clicking onto a different channel. Neither of them spoke as MePhone kept searching, eventually landing on a different cooking channel, this show definitely being less harsh. Eventually, MePhone grew bored of just sitting around, watching TV, so he got up, giving a goodbye wave to Blueberry to be polite, as he made his way over to the door. He felt like bothering TestTube today. She hadn’t been up from her lab in a few days, and he wanted to see what she was up to. So he headed out, pleasantly surprised at the nicer weather today. Maybe he’d ask OJ if he wanted to have dinner outside if it didn’t get too cold out later. For now though, he made his way to the lab entrance, heading down. For once, they weren’t in the main room, MePhone figuring the two were in one of the side rooms, so he went looking, opening one of the doors he hadn’t been behind before to reveal a much larger room.
To say he hadn’t expected to see TestTube and Taco together, working on something… really big, was an understatement. It was like everyone froze in the moment, both Taco and TestTube looking over at MePhone with shock, as if he weren’t supposed to be down here.
“Uh… hey,” He let out awkwardly, shuffling in his place.
“What are you doing down here?” TestTube let out an awkward chuckle of her own.
“I just wanted to hang out, I was bored-- but um… you look busy.” MePhone glanced at the thing they were building, really, he hadn’t been in this room before, so he guessed this was for bigger projects, like whatever this was-- and now that he looked at it closer, it looked like a ship. The thought made him uncomfortable.
“Um… Yeah, you’re busy, I should go. Sorry.” MePhone frowned, immediately shutting the door.
They’d have to talk about that, wouldn’t they. He could hear hushed voices from inside the room, and he was sure he didn’t want to have this conversation. He wondered if this was why she was acting so secretive? Why was she making a ship? Yeah, it could just be something harmless, but… He couldn’t help but feel uneasy. He let out a sigh, before stepping over to the main area of the lab, taking a seat. He was sure one of them was going to come out and explain, and he was right. After a few moments, TestTube made her way out of the room, cautiously making her way into the main room, looking at MePhone, clearly nervous.
“So uh… a spaceship, huh?” He shrugged.
“Well… yes! Spaceship.”
“... why?”
“Well, what else! Space travel!” She was still very clearly nervous, a tell sign she was lying to him.
“Yeah. Of course.” Both he, and TestTube noticed the drop in his tone.
“Listen, I know I’ve been sketchy lately, and I’m not… being completely honest with this, but please trust me, it’s better that you don’t know.” TestTube sighed.
“What’s that supposed to mean?” MePhone couldn’t help but get annoyed at this. The last thing he wanted was to be left in the dark. Especially if it was something she’s been this sketchy about.
“Please don’t fight with me on this. It’s nothing you need to worry about, okay? It’s not even that big of a deal!”
“So why won’t you tell me?”
“Gods, MePhone, just-- Just don’t worry about it.” TestTube sighed, a bit annoyed now herself. She understood where his frustrations were coming from, she really did, but if he knew they were going up to Meeple again, well, only the Gods knew how he’d react, but she could rightfully assume it wouldn’t be a good, or positive reaction.
“Fine. Whatever.” MePhone’s expression soured a bit as he got up from the stool, storming out, not another word said between the two as the exit door to the lab slammed shut. This, and the letter situation was definitely not helping him feel any less paranoid. He didn’t want to worry about it, but of course, with how things were, and just how shady TestTube was being, he couldn’t help it. His mood was definitely soured by this as he made his way back to the hotel, opting to just sit outside on his own, rather than the risk of facing anyone inside at the moment while his emotions festered. This sucked.

…

TestTube sighed, returning back to the workroom, picking up right where she left off like she hadn’t just made someone upset. She felt bad, yeah, but there was work to be done. She’d tell him what they did after the fact, if he kept prying. He’d understand.
“Well? Did you tell him?”
“No, and he got angry about it.”
“He got angry about you not telling him?”
“Exactly.” TestTube huffed. “Even though he’d just be more upset if he knew!” TestTube held her arms out a bit, exasperated.
“Right. Are you planning on telling him at all? What are you going to do if 4S tells him?”
“... I don’t think he would.”
“Oh?”
“The last thing 4S would want is to worry, or upset MePhone, so it’s doubtful he’d spill out plans. That’s why we told him, and not MePhone.”
“Yes, but that also meant him asking us to come along… Are you still going to let him?” Taco paused her current task, glancing at the vial.
“Well of course, I’m not going to deceive him or anything, I’m sure that’s what you’d do--”
“Wow, thanks.”
“But not me. He wants to come along? I’m sure he can handle it. No offense to MePhone, but he seems stronger emotionally, anyways.”
“That, or he’s just better at hiding it.” Taco resumed her work, TestTube pausing at what the shorter had said. But she shook it off. No, he seemed well adjusted enough. This would be fine. The Meeple mission was close now, the cloud’s charted course making it clear it would still at least be another two weeks or so before it was close enough to approach. This was for a good reason. Though MePhone didn’t, and couldn’t understand now, TestTube could. Surely she could make much better use of the files, plans, and blueprints that lay in meeple headquarters, than Cobs ever did. Yeah. This was for a good reason. She kept telling herself that as the two worked away, putting the finishing touches on the outside of the ship. Tomorrow, they started working on the interior. She could worry about MePhone’s frustration later.

…

4S and Knife had eventually made their way into a gift shop, 4S intrigued by the idea of the sorts of odd stuff they sold in this place. He wanted to get something for MePhone, thinking he’d appreciate a gift or something. It was the least 4S could do, really, considering everything. Despite that single negative thought, he shook it off, looking around the shop.
“Do you uh… have any grasp on the concept of money?”
“Yes. Co-- our creator taught us that, at least… It doesn’t mean I have any though.” 4S sighed, lowering his voice a bit.
“That’s fine. I can cover today then.” Knife shrugged, watching as 4S hesitated, having been reaching out for an item.
“You live on a remote island… How do you make money.”
“I have my ways.” Knife smirked, not elaborating further. 4S felt that same, strange warmth in his screen rise again, but he said nothing, just letting out a sigh as he pulled an item off the shelf.
“That doesn’t seem like a ‘you’ item,”
“It isn’t. I’m getting this for MePhone, to make up for the pain I’ve caused him.”
Both Knife and 4S stood there, almost awkwardly for a moment, 4S not having meant to say that last bit out loud. Knife turned away first. “Yeah okay.” This would surely be an awkward conversation for later.

Eventually, the two found their way back to the park, just enjoying the weather as they sat down on one of the benches, 4S holding both the bagged item, and the flower Knife had given him, not having let go of it at all. Knife was surprised, really, that he hadn’t dropped it, or discarded it by now.
“You really like that flower, huh?” He decided to comment, idle conversation being better than the silence between the two at the moment.
“... Yes. It’s a nice flower.”
“What do you like about it?”
“I like… The way it feels. In my hand. I’m sure it would smell nice, too, if I could tell. I like the colors, and the variety in them, and-- erhm…” 4S paused, glancing at Knife, who was just staring at him, listening to him talk with a raised eyebrow.
“What.” 4S let out, stopping the flower talk.
“Oh, nothing.” Knife smirked, almost fondly, before glancing away, looking up to the day sky.
“You’re… weirder than I thought.” 4S glanced away too. Knife raised an eyebrow again.
“Oh?”
“Being around you… Makes me feel weird.”
“Huh??” Knife’s tone was almost in disbelief.
“You make me feel like I can be a better person, is all. That’s what I mean. Like I’m not just a blank slate, or that I’m actually making progress in becoming… Myself-- Gods, that sounds ridiculous. Enough talking, I’m bored again.” 4S quickly got up, stepping away… What the hell was that? He wasn’t supposed to be weird, or sappy, and honestly he didn’t know where that came from. Neither did Knife, but thankfully for the phone, he took what he said at face value.
“I’m glad I inspire you to be better.” Knife smiled, patting the other’s shoulder as he got up as well.
“What else is there to do around here?”
“Well, there is a laser tag place somewhere, I don’t actually remember where, because it’s been a while, but that sounds like something you’d enjoy, right?” To be honest, Knife was definitely still thinking about what 4S had just admitted to him, but he wasn’t going to let it take over all his thoughts. He just felt… Odd. Not in a bad way, but still odd, at the fact he was impacting someone for the better. Even though he helped a lot of people, through his tough love approach and all-- it was still hard to believe sometimes. It made him feel proud of himself, really. Like maybe he was finally making up for being such a dick during the first years everyone knew each other. It was nice.
“I suppose that sounds alright… I don’t actually know what that is, but the words ‘laser’ and ‘tag both sound very interesting together.”
“I can explain while we figure out where the place is-- unless you wanna go in blind.”
“I would rather not have my vision impaired--”
“No, no, that was a figure of speech, it means like, uh… Going into a situation without prior knowledge.”
“Oh. It would be best if I knew about it, probably.”
“Got it.” So the two started walking, looking for someone to ask about the area, Knife explaining how laser tag worked, and what it was.
“So you shoot people… but they don’t die?”
“Exactly. Nobody gets harmed, or, well nobody should be getting harmed in laser tag.”
“Hm. Sounds interesting. I haven’t held a gun in… well, It’s been a very long time.”
“I’m sure you’ll figure it out again, don’t worry about being too good, or bad at it. This is more of a ‘for fun’ kind of activity.”
“Ah. alright.”

.
.
.

Eventually the two found someone to ask, the person able to direct them to the said building, Knife just being glad this place was still there. It had been years since he had done this, during one of the times he visited the mainland with Pickle, Soap, Microphone, and Nickel. He still remembers Soap and Microphone absolutely destroying him, and the others during the rounds they played. It was fun, really. He was fond of that memory. Maybe if 4S was good at it, the two would have some serious competition. That was a fun thought to enter a round with. 4S examined himself, wearing the laser badge he was given for the round. It was glowing, and currently green. He didn’t like the colour green too much, at least-- not neon green. It was ugly, and contrasted with his red. Oh well. Next, he examined the laser gun in his hands, almost scared at how natural it felt holding it. But he shook that off, quickly taking position, hiding behind a wall in the arena, hoping he wouldn’t think too hard about this, as the timer for the start of the round beeped down, letting out a small buzz as the round itself started. There were four other objects in this round, not including him or Knife, and it seemed like a free for all. 4S kept his position, occasionally peeking out to see others running around to take cover, watching as someone was caught, and buzzed out, their badge flashing red as they were hit, and disqualified from winning the round. This was… Well, for some reason, this was incredibly stressful. All of the noise, and the blaring music of the arena was not a good mix for this discomfort, as 4S once again shook off his growing thoughts, going to hide behind another corner, peeking out just in time to aim at someone passing, but he didn’t fire-- he couldn’t, rather, almost freezing in place as the object swung their hands up, expecting to lose, but 4S stood there, trembling.
“Uh…” The object took this chance, his hesitance, to shoot at him instead, 4S’s badge flashing red. But he didn’t move. This was wrong. This was wrong, and 4S felt like he was right back up there, doing mandatory target practice, and he was totally botching it, and Cobs was going to show up any moment and reprimand him for being bad at this. For ruining this. For ruining everything-- he could feel his breathing pick up, growing fast and jagged as he mustered the strength to drop the gun, the other object just staring at him, confused, before their own badge flashed red, as they had been shot from the side. They let out a swear, before walking off, towards the loser area. He couldn’t move-- he- he could barely breathe, everything was growing fuzzy, and-- a hand on his shoulder broke him away from the immediate physical thoughts, as his trembling hands were finally lowered by Knife, who had gotten out, and noticed this as he was heading to the loser area. 4S watched the blade’s mouth move, but all that filled his audio receptors was static. As 4S didn’t respond, Knife carefully took his hand, leading him out of the arena, into the loser area, sitting him down away from the other objects. After a few moments, he spoke again, attempting to get through whatever was fogging up his mind, as 4S stared down at his trembling hands.
“... Are you okay? What happened?” Thankfully, 4S heard this, glancing up through his shades at the blade. He opened his mouth to reply, but nothing came out. He felt like such a burden in the moment, ruining what was a perfect day. He wanted to go back to the hotel. To shrivel up and hide under his covers, not having to worry about interacting with anyone, or talking. Not like he was going to get any words out now anyways. He closed his mouth, his arms wrapping around himself, still trembling. Knife did the best he could with comfort, carefully moving a hand to slide up and down 4S’s arm, trying to soothe the phone’s unspoken terror. In hindsight, maybe a gun based activity hadn’t been the best idea. Knife internally swore at himself, pissed that he had ruined the day by suggesting this. Eventually, the trembling let up, but 4S still couldn’t speak. Knife understood this, having been there the last time the phone had gone nonverbal.
“Are you okay to head out? We can go back to the hotel if you need,” He spoke in a hushed voice, 4S unable to do anything other than nod, his eyes darting to the floor as the two got up. Today hadn’t ended how he wished it would, but honestly, he was relieved it was over now. He retrieved his bag, and the flower, following Knife as the two made it back to the boat that brought the two of them here.

…

OJ frowned, tapping his foot against the carpeted floor of the hallway. He had meant to go talk to MePhone sometime today, to talk about the whole ‘redecorating his office’ thing, but he had no idea where MePhone actually was. His best lead was Blueberry, who he saw was hanging out earlier with on the couch, but by the time he had the free time to go ask, Blueberry was back up in his room, taking a nap. OJ sighed. He’d just have to find the phone later, but for now, he wanted to go out and enjoy the nice weather. It was quite warm out today, and he wanted to savor that before winter came around in full force. So he stepped out-- only to immediately find the object he had been looking for.
“Oh! There you are!” OJ smiled, before actually reading MePhone’s expression, which seemed much less than happy. OJ’s smile dropped at this, MePhone just sighing.
“Yeah, here I am.”
“What happened? Are you okay dear?” OJ stepped over, sitting down on the pavement beside the phone.
“Yeah, I mean, I should be, it’s… Stupid, really.” MePhone shook it off, not really wanting to discuss it. OJ understood this, not prying further.
“If you want to talk about it later, that’s fine. I’m here for you now, though, if this isn’t the time.”
“... Thanks.” MePhone sighed again, leaning into his boyfriend. “How’s your day been?”
“I mean, it’s been alright, I’ve been looking for you, actually.”
“Oh?”
“Yeah. I found a note yesterday. That, and I also noticed the jarring changes to my office. I sure wonder who could’ve done this.” OJ grinned, watching as MePhone’s almost miserable expression shifted to a smirk.
“Yeah, I sure wonder,”
“Whoever it was, it’d be a shame if I… vowed to get revenge for it.”
“Pfft, revenge? What does that even mean?”
“Say, redecorate a room in retaliation?”
“With your lack of designing skills? No way,” MePhone joked, laughing a bit as OJ scoffed, playfully pushing the phone away a bit. “Oh wow, low blow. Your brother already called my hotel shitty the other day. My pride has been irreversibly damaged!” OJ feigned insult, cracking open one of his eyes to glance at MePhone, who was stifling laughter.
“Sorry, fine, I… totally didn’t mean it.”
“You’re lying! I can’t believe you!” The two of them broke out into a bit of laughter, all of this lighthearted joking around lightening the mood, and definitely cheering MePhone up. Eventually the two calmed down, leaning into each other as they enjoyed the company of each other, and the mostly warm weather.
“I… probably have to prepare dinner soon, talk later?”
“Yeah, sure," MePhone smiled, watching his boyfriend get to his feet, offering over a hand to help the phone up, which he took.
“How about we eat outside tonight? It’s still nice out,” MePhone suggested.
“Yeah, that sounds nice."

…

The two returned to the mainland without a word, 4S just focusing solely on the flower Knife had given to him as the two were on the boat, and nothing else. Feeling the stem, and occasionally the petals of the flower was soothing, really. A nice, distinct feel that helped ground him. He wasn’t back at Meeple. He wasn’t going to get yelled at by Cobs. He was safe. He was okay. Knife reminded him of that. Knife… The thought of him constantly made his screen warm. He really didn’t know why, really. He’d have to get to the bottom of that, having to hope it wasn’t something about him being metal, or reflecting the sunlight on him, or whatever, but… Well, he just didn’t know. He had no explanation for it, really. He’d have to talk to TestTube, or MePhone about it. Eventually, the two reached the familiar island again, 4S being much slower to get off of the boat now, Knife offering a hand to help him out, which he didn’t take, stepping out of the boat on his own.
4S sighed, gripping the bag, and the flower in his hands, staring at the ground, and nothing else as the two returned to the hotel.

.
.
.

It was much later in the night, when the two sat alone in the shared room, Knife once again on that handheld console of his. The flower he was given was resting on the bedside table, and 4S had yet to give the gift he got for MePhone to him, but he just… Mentally wasn’t up for doing that today anymore. Maybe tomorrow. As he was laying down, his screen was dimmed completely to feign being asleep, he stared at the ceiling. He had calmed down a lot more by now, but he didn’t know if he could talk yet. He knew he had to apologize though, so whether or not he wanted to, if he couldn’t, he’d just force it out. He sat up, upping his brightness a bit as he glanced over at Knife, who was returning the look, lowering the console to his lap as the two stared at each other.

“I- I’m sorry.” 4S frowned, glancing away. He couldn’t make eye-contact. It was uncomfortable.
“Why are you sorry? That wasn’t your fault.”
“It was. I-” He paused, trying to choke out the rest of the words. It took him a moment. “I ruined the day.”
“You didn’t. You had a panic attack, and there’s no way I can blame you for that. You have nothing to be sorry for, dude.” 4S’s expression shifted from shame, to guilt. He didn’t understand why he was being so forgiving. He had been given only kindness and understanding from Knife, but he didn’t feel like he deserved any of it. His frown deepened, barely registering Knife getting up, and stepping over to the side of 4S’s bed. Only the rustling of a bag was what finally caught his attention, as he glanced over to Knife, who was pulling out the hello kitty plushie he had been given. He handed it to 4S, who reluctantly took it, immediately holding it close for comfort.
“Y’know, I was actually surprised to see you with that the first time. Not in a bad way, but because I actually had a doll-- er, plushie of my own. I got it during the first season of inanimate insanity, actually. Believe it or not, it was a dora doll. It gave me comfort during the time I was stuck on idiotic island. I don’t have it anymore, but it really helped. I’m sure yours helps you a lot too. As cheesy as this sounds, I wanna be like that for you too. Someone to help, and comfort you if needed. You’re struggling, and I understand that. Honestly, I see a lot of myself in you.” Knife paused, watching 4S’s expression shift to something less guilty, and more just slightly confused. “I care about you, and I wanna see you get better. Just like I did. I know you can do it, as hard as things might get.” Knife smiled a soft, friendly smile. 4S hesitated for just a moment, before smiling back, the warmth in his screen more noticeable than ever.
“Don’t worry about the laser tag incident, okay? It wasn’t your fault.”
“Okay.” And for once, he didn’t hesitate, not feeling like he had to blame himself with this for once.
That was a nice feeling.

Chapter Text

“Look, now that I think about it, what angle does anyone even get out of reading the letters? Yeah, it’s… More personal, than anything, but there aren’t any… deep, grand secrets that could lead to my demise.” MePhone sighed, flopping back on his and OJ’s shared bed, 4S pacing around by the door to the room.
“Do you mind if I read the other three letters? I’d like to confirm that.” 4S finally stopped pacing, glancing over at his brother, who sighed, sitting back up.
“Guess so.” He got up, pulling the box out from under the bed, handing it over to 4S, who, well, couldn’t open it.
“It’s locked, doofus.”
“Doofus? Excuse you, where did that come from?” MePhone scoffed, as 4S just rolled his eyes.
“Yeah. I said what I said. How am I supposed to read the letters if the box is locked. Did you even think about that?”
MePhone glanced away, sighing again.
“Exactly. Great. I’m just going to break it.”
“No, don’t break it, look. I don’t want to ask Taco again, so let’s just get Lightbulb to open it. She has the same tools, and also won’t be nosey, or an asshole about it.”
“Fine.” You stay here, I’ll go get her.” So 4S left the room, leaving the box with MePhone, so nobody else saw it, as he now had to figure out where Lightbulb was, and well, with how she was, she could be anywhere. So his first bet was the art room, and when nobody was in there, the lobby… and the kitchen… and even peeking outside.
“Ehm, what are you up to?”
4S jolted, spinning around as the front door shut, to be faced with Paper, who he hadn’t heard approach.
“... Looking for Lightbulb.” 4S huffed out, trying not to hold his breath.
“Oh, she’s probably in her room today, that, or in Paintbrush’s room.” Paper smiled a nervous smile, not having really expected to have been wrapped into a conversation with the phone.
“... Where is--”
“Second floor, third, or fourth room. You’ll have to see for yourself.”
“Ok. Thank you.” 4S would give a nod, before speed walking off, Paper letting out a huff of his own as he definitely had been holding his breath. 4S didn’t read any deeper into that, knowing of course, others are going to be nervous around him after everything he did, and especially after very recently almost beating up Trophy. Now wasn’t the time to think about all that now, as 4S trekked up the stairs, headed to the advised room, knocking on the closer one first, waiting for a response. There was a slight, soft sound inside the room, as he could hear the shuffling of footsteps, before the door opened.
“Wha-- uh, hey, do you need something?” Paintbrush opened the door, raising an eyebrow, and looking down at the shorter object.
“Lightbulb. Where is she.” The way his tone was, he had unintentionally made himself sound a bit intimidating asking this.
“... Um, why do you need her?” Paintbrush picked up on the intimidating tone.
“I’m here!” Lightbulb called from inside the room, 4S peeking in to see her hop off the bed, walking over.
“What’s up, Red?” Lightbulb grinned, leaning on the doorway.
“Erh-- don’t call me that, and I- we need your… Lockpicking abilities.”
“Gotcha. Lemme grab my kit.” She snapped a finger gun his way, before slinking back into the room, leaving 4S and Paintbrush to stand awkwardly.
“So uh, you're still on for anger management again in a few days, right? I can tell, well, at least since there haven’t been any incidents I’ve heard about, you’re doing better?”
“Yes. I am doing better, and I am also fine with meeting again soon.” 4S shuffled in place, a bit impatient. He had wasted enough time just trying to find Lightbulb. Eventually, she stepped out of the room, 4S just having to assume she was holding the right tools, as he led her back down to the first room, back to where he and MePhone had been discussing all of this earlier.
MePhone sat up, letting out a bored groan as the door opened;
“Jeez, took you long enough.”
“Had a hard time finding her. Sorry.”
“It’s fine, let’s just… get this thing open again.”
Lightbulb smiled, heading into the room, carefully taking the box from MePhone as he held it out to her, flopping down on the bed to work her magic on the box. It was silent, but thankfully not awkward, as there was an audible click, as Lightbulb lifted up the top of the box, handing it back, with no issues.
“There ya go,” She smiled, hopping off the bed again to leave.
“Thanks.”
“Any time.” She leaves with a wink.
“... She’s weird.” 4S huffed, moving to sit on the bed now.
“Tell me about it.” MePhone sighed, pulling out the letters, and placing them carefully on the bed. 4S took the letters, skimming one of them-- the only one he had actually already read, before picking up a different one. This one was new. Something about this grand plan with… aliens? Right. He was sure TestTube mentioned that. Something about how what he was doing would make everything better, and just trying to justify his shitty actions. 4S scoffed at this, putting the letter back down in favor of another one, the second one he hadn’t read. This one was about him. How much better he was going to be than MePhone. It was almost funny, really. He sighed, not saying a word as he took the final letter, reading it. MePhone was right, really. There was nothing here that gave away some big information, or anything that could really be used against him. 4S sighed, placing the letter back down on the bed, glancing at MePhone, who shuffled a bit where he sat, clearly a bit nervous.
“You’re right. There’s… nothing here,”
“Yeah… I… The reason I reacted that strongly when we first found them all scattered and stuff-- well, uh… It was just the idea that my privacy had been violated, especially with the matter of these letters, but Gods, it doesn’t even matter. I don’t care. I shouldn’t have to. I don’t want to worry about this, when I’m sure it’s nothing.”
“... Okay. We don’t have to worry about it, then. Let’s just try to move on from this.”
“Yeah. That sounds good.” MePhone leaned forward from where he was sitting, carefully gathering the letters to place back in the box. He didn’t lock it this time, honestly not caring enough anymore, as he got up to slide the box back into its hiding spot. Though MePhone seemed to be done worrying about it, that wouldn’t stop 4S from doing so. This was still just incredibly suspicious, and no matter what, he knew he wouldn’t be able to shake the feeling that something bad was going to happen.

Though, as the week went by, a slow week for sure, nothing happened. Everything, for the most part was normal, other than the few usual hotel antics from those living there, and 4S’s anger management course, nothing was happening. It was quiet. A little too quiet for 4S to really like, but… He wasn’t going to complain. At the end of the week, 4S remembered he had bought something from the mainland for MePhone-- and he had completely forgotten to give the gift to him. So that’s what he was doing now, holding the bag carefully in his hands as he stepped into the lobby, looking for his brother. Thankfully, MePhone was in the lobby today, sitting on the couch. 4S stepped up, watching as MePhone perked up a bit, looking over at 4S
“Yeah?”
“Here. I got this for you a week ago during my trip to the mainland. Forgot to hand it over. Enjoy.” he held the bag out, MePhone raised an eyebrow, before taking the bag, peeking inside it.
“Huh,”
“If you don’t like it, uh… Just deal with it, then.” 4S was unable to gauge MePhone’s reaction as he pulled the item out, it was a small, cookie shaped cookie jar. MePhone let out an amused huff at this, examining it carefully.
“I noticed you’ve picked up baking in the time I’ve been around, and thought you might like this.” 4S shuffled awkwardly in place.
“Yeah, thanks, I appreciate it, this’ll be much nicer to use, and now OJ won’t get to complain to me about using all the tupperware.” MePhone smiled at his brother, carefully setting the jar back down into the bag.
“I’ll take that to the kitchen in a bit, I’m just relaxing right now, do you want to join me?” MePhone patted the spot on the couch next to him, as an offer. As much as 4S wanted to spend time with him today, as much as he didn’t like TV-- he had a problem he still needed to resolve. See, during the slow week, most of the moments he was stuck with Knife, he had noticed how he couldn’t shake off the constant warmth in his systems.
“Sorry. I can’t. I need to go see TestTube. I think I’m malfunctioning.”
“Wh-- huh? You are? What’s wrong?” MePhone’s mood took a complete turn after hearing this, 4S immediately regretting telling him as he got up from the couch, stepping over to his brother to examine him.
“Nothing physical. I just-- It’s weird. I’m just going to go ask TestTube.”
“I- I’ll go with you,”
“... Fine.” 4S huffed out. He was glad MePhone cared this much, but it also just felt like he was worrying him again.

…

There was an awkward air in the lab as the two made it down, MePhone immediately going to grab TestTube, despite still being unhappy with her about all the secrecy, he still needed her to do this for them. 4S sat awkwardly on the table he had woken up on originally, as TestTube poked and prodded at him. He didn’t like this one bit, but he wanted to get to the bottom of this. He was hooked up to something for a bit, but eventually, TestTube just sighed.
“Your systems are optimal right now. Why do you think you’re malfunctioning, 4S?”
“... I keep… er… I keep feeling weird.”
“Okay, what do you mean by weird? You have to be specific, please.” TestTube tapped the pen she was holding against the clipboard she was also holding. She couldn’t help but be frustrated as she had been pulled away from her work on the ship-- which she and Taco were very close to finishing, by MePhone, who came down and gave her little to no choice about checking on 4S.
“I keep feeling… warm,” He paused, glancing at MePhone, who was visibly thinking about this. “It’s this… warmth, I keep feeling in my screen, and it’s not always there, just… Sometimes, and it’s… It’s always when I’m around him! I- I don’t know if he’s playing some sort of mind games, or if he’s messing with my systems, but--” He trailed off, noticing MePhone’s look of realization.
“What.”
“I- uh… Nothing,” MePhone moved a hand over his mouth as he glanced away. 4S furrowed his brow. This was when TestTube also seemed to come to the same realization that MePhone had, letting out a gasp, before smiling a bit.
“Hey, can you tell us uh, who’s making you feel this way?” TestTube lowered her clipboard a bit, 4S just shuffling in his spot, nervous now. Both of them, despite the hostility, seemed to know something that he didn’t, and he wasn’t fond of that.
“I uh… This warmth keeps coming up and becoming a problem when I’m around Knife. I- I don’t know if it’s my systems, or what, but…” He trailed off again, gauging the two’s expressions, MePhone looking absolutely shocked, and TestTube just looking amused.
“Him?? Really?” MePhone stepped away, moving a hand to his screen, still seeming completely baffled.
“Honestly, I’m not surprised.” TestTube moved over to the counter, putting her clipboard down, just fiddling with the pen in her hands now.
“Oh really, what, you just figured with all your endless knowledge that this was bound to happen or something?”
“Don’t pick a fight with me, MePhone. Just think about it, really think about it. The two of them have been spending a lot of time together, much like you and--”
“Gods, fine, okay, you don’t need to explain every little thing to me.” MePhone sighed, glancing back at his brother, who was… Even more confused now.
“What. What does any of this mean…” 4S fiddled with his fingers, unable to help how anxious the two were making him by not just saying what this meant.
“Erhm… Well, you like Knife, right?” TestTube raised an eyebrow.
“Yes. I would say he’s probably my closest friend--”
“Hey,” MePhone frowned.
“You’re my brother. You don’t count.” 4S ignored the scoff from MePhone, before continuing; “And we spend a lot of enjoyable time together. I find his company nice, but if it’s messing with my systems, I’ll… Stop hanging out with him, if I have to.”
“Okay, huh. I’ll just preface this with the fact that won’t be a problem, this warmth isn’t anything too serious, and it’s not going to kill you or anything.” TestTube was still very clearly amused.
“Oh. Good.” A bit of the anxiety he was feeling faded as he sat there, moving his hands back down to his sides.
“Do you… uh, have you ever been in love before?”
“... what.”
“Do you know what--”
“Yes, I know what love is. I just-- I don’t… er- I wasn’t built to…”
“Well I wasn’t either, but look at me,” MePhone shrugged, trying to help out a bit. 4S was definitely having a hard time wrapping his brain around this… Were they implying he was in love… With Knife of all objects? No. He didn’t feel love. He wasn’t built to make connections, or feel love, but… Well, he had already gone against the whole ‘not making connections’ thing… So what was stopping him from being in love? He sat there, really thinking about it. Sure, Knife made him feel like a good person, and like he was making progress, and made his screen feel warm, but surely that wasn’t love. No, it wasn’t. 4S isn’t falling in love.
“I’m not in love with Knife.” 4S’s tone was stern.
“I- we didn’t say that, exactly,”
“But it was implied. I don’t fall in love. I can’t.”
It was silent for a few moments, before TestTube spoke; “You can’t… or, you’re scared to?”
“Excuse me?” 4S shot a glare at the vial.
“Sorry, sorry, I won’t overstep.” TestTube held her hands up to signify she was backing down on the subject. She sighed, glancing away.
It was completely silent, an awkward air filling the lab, before TestTube spoke;
“Anyways, now that this is figured out, I need to get back to work.”
“Are you still going to keep me in the dark about it?” MePhone frowned, watching the vial step over, into the hallway.
“Yeah, I am. You don’t need to know every little thing that goes on. Especially in this case.” TestTube made her way further down the hallway, leaving into the room she had been working in.
MePhone’s frown deepened. There was definitely a tension between the two, 4S could at least pick up on that.
“We’ll talk about this more once we’re out of here, okay?” MePhone glanced at 4S, heading over to the exit door.
“About what?” He now felt just a bit guilty for keeping the Meeple mission, and his involvement secret now, too, but TestTube had a point. He didn’t need to know about this.
“About you and Knife.”
“There’s nothing to talk about.” 4S huffed, getting off the table to follow MePhone out.
“You’re in denial. I was the same way with OJ.”
“You’re saying that everyone has the same experiences. I’m not in denial, because I’m not ‘in love’ MePhone. I don’t… I don’t get to fall in love.” MePhone paused at this, halfway up the staircase, glancing back at his brother.
“What do you mean you don’t get to fall in love? Do you realize how dumb that sounds?”
“So now you’re insulting me.” 4S crossed his arms.
“No! I- I’m not trying to, I’m just trying to help you realize your emotions, by telling you what it was like when I was feeling the exact same things. To let you know I’m here for you, okay? I know what you’re feeling. As much as you try to deny it, I think you’re in love, okay?”
“And you’re wrong, but whatever. I’m not fighting with you about this.” 4S grumbled, frustrated by all of this, as he pushed past MePhone, heading up the rest of the stairs, leaving both of them frustrated.

.
.
.

As TestTube left to go check up on 4S, that left Taco in the construction zone. The two of them were working on the interior of the ship, and its systems now, and Taco knew she had to work fast if she wanted to do what she needed to do. The second the door to the room clicked shut, was when she got to work on it, tampering a bit with the systems. She knew this mission was coming up soon, and honestly, the excitement had been replaced with dread. She was absolutely stuck, with no way out, and no matter what she did, when it came down to it, when she was going to have to execute her plans, she knew… Well, she knew it would leave her at fault. But she didn’t have a choice. She just had to hope somebody was still suspicious. She just had to hope someone would find out before it was too late.
For now though, as TestTube returned, she quickly went back to adjusting one of the seats on the ship, as if she wasn’t doing anything else. She had too much to do still. This wasn’t fun anymore for her, but she had to keep up that facade.

.
.
.

4S immediately retreated up to his and Knife’s shared room, completely frustrated with everything. What did they know, anyways. He slammed the door shut, letting out some of the frustrating, not even noticing Knife was in the room at the moment, as 4S walked over to his bed, flopping down on it. He couldn’t help but let out an annoyed groan.
“Bad day, huh?” Knife’s voice caught the phone off guard as he jolted up, swinging around to see Knife.
“Ah-- um. Erh, yes. Rough day.” 4S grumbled, shaking off the surprise and frustration, now just sitting on his bed, his hands in his lap.
“Need any help calming down, or do you got this?” Knife shrugged, offering help if needed.
“I’m fine. I’ll be fine.” 4S internally yelled at himself, growing more frustrated at the fact his screen was warming up.
“You sure?”
“Yes, I’m sure. Don’t push it.” 4S glared up at Knife, immediately regretting doing so, but he was still just so frustrated. He didn’t like this feeling. It was new, and… He didn't want to admit this was scary, but it was.

He just let out another frustrated groan, abruptly standing up and leaving. He couldn’t be there right now. He didn’t want to lash out at anyone today, so he made his way outside, not caring he was unaccompanied by someone, walking over to the side of the hotel, and sliding down the wall. It was really cold today. Much colder than it had been. He hated feeling new things. It was hard, and difficult, and scary, and he hated being scared! He should be the one making other people scared, so what did it say if he was this weak to be intimidated by a new feeling! Not… Not that this was what it was. Yeah, it was a new feeling, but it wasn’t love. He didn’t know how to process this, really. Letting his frustrations out on the blades of grass around him-- ripping them up and punching the ground, as the annoyance faded, it was replaced with something else, something 4S couldn’t really understand. He was frustrated with himself. He didn’t understand why the tensions in the lab today had been so high, but it had left him on edge. He didn’t like that at all. He just wished he could know, or figure out how to shove all of these feelings away, so he wouldn’t have to worry about it. Sure, he knew what love was, he had basic knowledge and stuff, but the idea of him of all objects, an unlovable rectangle of rage and hatred falling in love? No. That was a bad way to describe him. He wasn’t like that anymore, though with how he acted today, he supposed that wasn’t too far off for him.

He let out a huff, taking a moment to breathe in and out. This wasn’t worth it, really. He didn’t want to overthink about this, or be so hung up on it that he just lashes out towards himself, and everyone else. He’d just have to stifle it, and hope it wouldn’t blow up in his face. He knew that wasn’t… The best way to deal with this, but what choice did he have? Even if he fully went into this feeling, accepting he was in love with Knife, he knew the blade would never feel the same way. He knew he was unlovable. 4S had been dealing with this warmth for long enough that he didn’t even really mind it anymore. He… didn’t want to fall in love. He sighed, getting to his feet, to go back into the hotel. He’d never admit it out loud, but TestTube was right. He was scared.

…

Knife sighed, leaning in the entryway of the kitchen, looking at MePhone, who sat at the table, his arms crossed, and his expression nothing less than miserable. Knife moved over to sit across from the phone.
“I figure based on your uh… whole deal right now, that you know this, but your brother’s pretty frustrated today. What’s up with that?”
MePhone immediately glanced away, his mood and posture softening a bit as he let out a sigh.
“He’s just… Being stubborn.”
“Why?”
“He’s uh… He’s in denial over-- um,” MePhone paused, his miserable expression shifting to something more neutral as he chose his words carefully; “He’s in denial over… something, and he just wouldn’t listen to me about it.”
“Hm. I mean, I don’t blame him for not listening to you--”
“Not helping.” MePhone glared at Knife.
“Fine, fine. I didn’t mean that in a mean way,”
“What other way could you have meant it? Gods, I see why he’s--” MePhone quickly shut his mouth. Knife only raised an eyebrow at this.
“He’s… what?”
“Nothing. Not important.-- er, the topic, not him,” MePhone quickly clarified, letting out an almost pitiful sounding sigh.
“Can you tell me what he’s in denial about? Maybe I could help.”
MePhone glanced to the side again, almost thinking about it. But he wasn’t going to say anything. He knew that would upset 4S, and if he needed to figure out these feelings on his own, so be it.
“I can’t tell you, sorry.”
“Fine. I won’t pry then. If he comes back around, just uh… Keep an eye on him, so OJ doesn’t end up complaining to either of us about him being off on his own.” Knife shrugged, stepping away.
“Yeah, okay.” MePhone sighed out, his expression being a lot more mellowed out compared to how it was when Knife entered the kitchen originally. There was definitely a lingering tension all around today, and Knife didn’t really understand it, but it was almost tangible. He didn’t want to add to that feeling, so he resigned back up elsewhere, heading to the second room to visit Pickle for a bit.

…

It was another phone call. She slinked out of the construction room of the lab, away from the other to take it, heading to the stairway up and out of the lab for added secrecy.
“What is it now?” She answered, her tone shorter than it had been the last time she had received a call. The other voice spoke, what sounded like a request, though she knew it was a demand. She stifled a sigh, taking up an enthusiastic tone again, answering;
“Yes, of course. We’re almost done with it, and I’ll make sure to keep an eye out for it when we’re up there.” The voice on the other end spoke again, a question. This caught her off guard. Not once had she given the impression of this, but the voice still asked.
“... Yes. He’s been… Remade. He’s in the picture again. Why do you need to know? He isn’t even affiliated with your brand anym--” The voice cut her off, giving another demand.
“I- I don’t think that’s… A good idea.” The voice on the other end paused, before replying… With a threat. “Yes, of course. We wouldn’t want that to happen.” She paused, for just a moment; “Fine. I’ll do it.” She couldn’t stifle the sigh now, the voice replying with a curt farewell, before hanging up. This was not looking good, for any of them.

Chapter Text

4S sighed shakily, holding his hands close to his core as he curled in on himself a bit. It was late, and he couldn’t sleep.
He had spent the past few days emotionally shutting down towards everyone else around him, and as much as he didn’t want to admit, it was catching up to him. All of this pent up emotion, this sorrow, frustration, and yearning was trapped, and coiling around him like it needed to get out. He could feel his stomach twisting in discomfort at this, being stuck awake at ungodly hours, doing his damned hardest not to wake up his roommate. That was the last thing he needed. So despite his limbs barely cooperating with him, he got up from his bed, slowly, and quietly leaving the room. He made it as far as the stairway before his body just didn’t want to cooperate with him anymore, as he sat down on one of the carpeted stairs. This was miserable. Living like this, well, it could hardly be called living at all, really. He didn’t know how else to cope, though, so this is all he could do. This is all he could ever do, learning to do this, and perfect keeping everything in during his time in Meeple, when he didn't even have a choice in the matter-- Gods, why was his mind reminding him of that now? He shut his eyes tight, realizing he had left his sunglasses in his room. Oh well. It didn’t matter at this point.

He breathed, in and out, taking several moments to calm his breathing, though the twisting emotions inside his stomach didn’t leave. At this point he knew this was all going to blow up in his face eventually, but… But he didn’t know what else to do anymore. This was just the price of falling in love, he supposed. The awful feeling of stamping it all away, rather than embracing it, because he just couldn’t. He was still terrified, as much as he hated to admit to himself.

.
.
.

As the days went by, everyone else could clearly notice how reserved, and closed off 4S was becoming. How all of his responses, and conversations were short, and curt. How he avoided doing much with others, opting to sit outside the hotel, hours at a time, before someone came out to check on him, or tell him the cold, now winter weather surely wasn’t good for him. After that, he’d usually shut himself up in his room, often locking it. During these days, Knife had only spent one night actually sleeping in that room, the habit of him just being completely locked out growing. It was frustrating, and no matter how hard MePhone, or Knife, or anyone else tried, he just shut it all out. It hurt, but if distancing himself from everyone to get rid of these feelings was what it took, well… He’d just have to do it. Once all these feelings were stamped down, or died out, he’d return to normal. That was his silent promise to everyone, but none of the others understood. This wasn’t good for his mental health, surely, but what other choice did he have. It hurt. But it’d be fine in the end, surely it would. If it wasn't, what was all the pain for?

Today, he was thankfully out of the room, Knife keeping a close eye on him today, as his own worry was reaching a point where he was almost afraid to leave the device on his own.

4S was sitting at the kitchen table, as staying alone in the room was growing unbearable for him. He needed a change of pace, and he had mandatory plans later, so he thought he might as well just sit in here. As his dull, uncomfortable gaze was locked onto the table in front of him, Knife sighed, attempting to start a conversation, opening his mouth to say something, and the beginning of a word, or sound escaped him, but he just ended up closing his mouth, not saying anything, shuffling a bit in his seat. He took a few seconds to think about what to say, not wanting to come off as an asshole to the phone. He didn’t want to make whatever this was worse. To Knife, and honestly everyone else, it seemed like 4S had entered a depressive episode, and well, he knew better than anyone else how that felt, but… He wasn’t the best at helping other people out of it, when he could barely get out of states like that himself on his own. Eventually, he sighed again, finally actually getting something out;
“I… Know it might be hard, but I’m here to talk, if you need to.”
4S remained silent. He was almost bitter, really. He didn’t want to feel that way towards Knife, but he was the reason he had to stifle his emotions in the first place, and of course, Knife didn’t know that, he couldn’t. It wasn’t his fault. 4S knew better than to blame the blade. It didn’t make it hurt any less though, as all the negative feelings shifted into guilt, that further coiled around him. He still said nothing.
“Silent treatment, huh. I understand, but… I want you to know I’m not the only one worried here. It’s not your fault for feeling like this, but please, if it’s not me, try to talk to someone else who will listen.” Knife glanced away, a bit sad. Knife didn’t usually let his emotions get the better of him like this, but the genuine worry he felt was unpleasant. Seeing a lot of himself in 4S meant it was very hard for him seeing the phone going through this. But 4S refused to open up. Not now. He glanced away, before getting out of the seat.
“Going to see TestTube.” He said that, and nothing else, not bothering to wait for Knife, figuring he wasn’t going to follow, but as he left the hotel, he could see the blade was following him. He stopped.
“Going alone.” 4S took up an angered expression, trying to scare the other off so he could just go, but it didn’t work.
“Like hell you are, I-” Knife stifled something, taking a moment, before speaking again; “At least let me walk you there.”
“Fine.” His expression dropped as he turned back around, heading to the lab. Neither of them spoke as 4S pressed the button, ignoring the tightness in his throat. He hated this, but he had something to do. He had been requested by TestTube, despite his noticeable shift in mood, that he were to come by and help with finishing up the construction on the ship, and to be there when she, and Taco were to test it to make sure it could actually fly. He figured-- and hoped this would be an okay distraction, just to try to ignore, or push aside what he was feeling to focus on this, instead. Surely this wouldn’t backfire at all, he convinced himself, as he went down into the lab, thankful that Knife didn’t follow him down or anything. He sighed as he landed, standing up to dust himself off as he headed over to the construction room, merely announcing his presence with an; “I’m here,” and nothing else, as TestTube looked up at him with a smile, as she stood outside the ship.
“Not to ask a question that might embarrass me, but how are you planning on getting this ship above ground?” Taco stepped from out of the ship, creating some distance as she moved to the side of the room.
“Simple! During the time we haven’t been working on this ship, I’ve engineered a ground hatch, to lift this up to the outside, so we can blast it off from up there!” TestTube was absolutely ecstatic about all this, excited to be testing this out. Taco, and 4S were less than thrilled, though, both for vastly different reasons though. Neither of them planned on saying anything though, as TestTube started explaining how this process was going to work. Her lab, and where she was testing the ship, was far enough from the hotel to not be spotted, but it could possibly make noise. She elaborated that if anyone were to ask, just say it was just an experiment, and nothing else. Simple enough, really. Eventually though, TestTube reached the end of her explanation.
"Well! Now's the time to get this thing up and running! Uh, just in case this goes wrong, since both I, and Taco can be recovered, it may be best if you don't get on the ship with us yet, if that's okay?" She glanced at 4S, who just mustered out a shrug, turning to leave the room.
"I'll call you back when this is all done and over with!" TestTube smiled again, her glee and excitement not being ruined by 4S's declining mood. He'd just give a passing thumbs-up as he left the room, listening to the ship start up from behind the now closed door. The Meeple mission was soon, and with all these negative emotions swirling inside him lately, he… Didn't know if he could handle it, really. He just hoped he'd be able to stifle all this before then.

…

OJ tapped his foot against the floor as he sat in the chair at his desk. Things at the hotel have been… well, incredibly slow lately, and incredibly boring. OJ was almost wishing something would just happen already, but he didn't want to jinx things, and cause a bad event. So… he thought about something to do to liven up things around the hotel, landing on the idea of holding yet another party. Surely now that it was winter, much like the fall party, he could excuse this by saying it was for the changing of seasons. Though, the idea of planning another party raised a few problems, mainly the fact he'd have to ask Salt and Pepper to help decorate and prepare, since the two usually did that for every party. He sighed, glancing at his calendar. It was Tuesday now, and he wanted to have this party soon, but not too soon… So he marked down Saturday for the party, before almost reluctantly heading out of his office to go find, and talk to Salt and Pepper.

On his way to the spa room, he paused, glancing into the lobby to see MePhone sitting alone on the couch, his knees raised to his chest, the TV not even being on. It was clear to OJ that his partner was sulking right now. He glanced at the spa room, then back out to the lobby at his partner, deciding this was more important, and he'd just have to ask the other two about the party idea later.
Right now, though, he has to comfort MePhone. That always took priority, as OJ made his way over to the couch, sitting down beside MePhone.
"Hey," MePhone spoke first, his tone most definitely sad.
"Hey, are you alright?"
"No," MePhone's current frown deepened.
"Is there anything I can do to help? Do you want to talk about it at all?"
"I… Yeah," MePhone sighed, moving to where he wasn't holding his knees, rather now just sitting on the couch normally; "just not here, if that's okay,"
"Yeah, of course, I understand," OJ stood, holding out a hand to MePhone, helping him up, too. The two retreated to their shared room, both of them moving to sit on the bed together. As they sat, OJ wrapped his arms around the phone, pulling him into a hug, which MePhone didn't take long to return, the two holding each other close, as MePhone sniffled.
"I- I'm losing him again, I don't know what to do,"
OJ immediately, and rightfully assumed he was referring to 4S. He'd be lying if he said he hadn't noticed 4S's gradual decline. Even to the objects who barely paid attention to the other phone, it was glaringly obvious. OJ let out a soft sigh, tightening the hug just a bit, though not to an uncomfortable extent, just trying to provide a little more comfort.
"He's-- he's getting worse, and he won't talk to me, he won't talk to anyone, and I'm so afraid I've pushed him away,"
OJ said nothing, just listening as he rubbed his hand along the phone's back, solely here to listen in the moment. "I can't lose him again," MePhone sobbed out, finally starting to cry. OJ kept soothing the phone, whispering quiet reassurances to his partner, letting him know everything was going to be okay, even if MePhone was unsure of that now. It took a while for the phone to calm down, once again reduced to sniffling.
"He's shutting everyone out, including me, and… I'm afraid he's going to lash out again, and he's going to end up blaming himself, and feeling even worse when it does happen, and… I just-- I've tried giving him time, and space, but Gods, I'm so scared, OJ," MePhone muttered out, still tightly holding his boyfriend as the two sat on the bed still.
"It seems like he's going to reach a boiling point soon,.if he's shutting everyone out, as… as rough as this is, he might not be willing to open up until then, if he refuses to now," OJ spoke finally, trying to figure out how to approach this. It was a difficult situation, really.
"I just wish that wasn't what it has to take, I- I don't want him to get worse,"
"I know, I know, it's… hard," OJ soothed, just trying to be the comfort his partner needed in the moment. It was silent, other than the occasional sniffles from MePhone. After a bit, he spoke, his voice a bit weary;
"I'm tired,"
"We can take a nap if you'd like," OJ pulled away from the hug a bit, MePhone retracting his own arms from the hug, glancing away.
"I-- yeah. Okay." MePhones tone was soft, and sad. OJ offered a soft, sympathetic smile to the phone as he pulled away completely, moving off the bed for just a moment, to put his cork on so the two could lay down together. MePhone just flopped down onto his back, shifting onto his side as OJ rejoined him in bed, wrapping his arms around the phone, to hold him close.
MePhone was tired, and scared, but at this moment, as he drifted off into his nap, his worries didn't seem so bad. He just had to hope OJ was right, and that things would be okay.
MePhone didn't know what he'd do if they weren't.

…

"It works!" TestTube slams the door open to the construction room, 4S jolting at the sudden sound and movement. He lets out a nervous, shaky breath, unsure how TestTube just didn't seem to notice-- that, or she didn't care, about his emotional distance. Honestly, he was glad she wasn't getting on him about it. He already had a hard enough time trying to get Knife, and MePhone to just back off about it.
"What am I here for, then." 4S crosses his arms, leaning on one of the hallway walls.
"Well, now that we know the ship is operational, and it works, and since the MeCloud is going to be here soon, as shown on my charted course, we all need to agree on a day to go." TestTube explained, heading back into the construction room, 4S reluctantly following.
"Is this something we really have to do, so soon?" Taco stepped out of the ship.
"Taco, you're the one who approached me about this in the first place! I don't understand why you're trying to stall. If we don't do it soon, the MeCloud will be way too far for this ship to properly reach."
"But--"
"But nothing! This has got me so excited, honestly,"
"We can tell." 4S muttered, rolling his eyes.
"I'm going to suggest Friday. How does that sound to you two?"
"Fine." 4S spoke, turning to leave. "Anything else? Or can I go?"
"Ah, actually there is something I need to discuss with you, but first, what about you Taco? Does Friday sound good?"
Taco stifled a sigh, before answering; "Yes. Friday sounds splendid."
"Okay! You can head out now then, Taco, as for you, 4S--" she glanced back up to the door to the room, only to see he had left. TestTube sighed.
"What was up with him?" Taco asked, almost being cautious.
"I-- I was going to talk to him about it, but apparently not." TestTube frowned. "Oh well, I'm sure someone else will get to it, but for now, I've got preparation to do. You don't need to stick around if you don't want to." TestTube glanced at Taco, who immediately took the chance to head out. The less work she had to do, the better. She had her own preparation to get to anyways.

.
.
.

Taco resigned to her room, shuffling through the small closet in the room, looking for a specific item. It had been a while since she had used this, but unfortunately, it was looking like she'd have to again. Pulling out a small box, hidden away from the obvious view of anyone looking into her closet, she opened the lid, seeing it had been exactly where she left it. She sighed. Despite leaving tracks, and being sloppy with her work on purpose, it still seemed her worse was too good for anyone to keep suspicion for long. Friday was not looking good.

…

After a short nap, OJ got up, making sure MePhone would be okay on his own, before going back out to do what he was trying to do originally, heading straight to the spa room, knowing that was where Salt and Pepper spent almost all their time, if they weren’t up in their shared room, watching romance movies together. Thankfully they were here. OJ peeked in, almost reluctantly, as he cleared his throat, the girls both pausing their current conversation to look at him. Salt’s expression went from happy, to immediately neutral seeing him.
“What do you want?” She asked.
“Um, well I was wondering if you two would help put together a party? Since you two usually take the helm with getting them planned when I hold them?” OJ shuffled awkwardly in place.
"Like, why should we?" Pepper crossed her arms.
"You guys come complaining to me all the time that the hotel is 'boring', and there's 'nothing going on'. Can you please just help organize this?"
… Salt raised an eyebrow, not convinced. Yeah, she liked the idea of a party, who didn't, but she wanted OJ to make a bargain or something. She didn't want to do anything for him anymore unless there was something in it for her.
"If you guys don't want to help, I'm just going to ask Lightbulb." OJ sighed, pulled out the extreme card, Salt caving immediately to this; “Fine, fine. We’ll do it. What’s like, the theme for this one, anyways.”
“Well, since it’s far too early for the holiday party still, like the party we had at the beginning of fall, this one will be winter themed. Does that sound okay?”
“Yeah, like, of course it does.” Pepper spoke, uncrossing her arms. “When are we doing this?”
“Friday, if that’s doable?”
“Trust us, we’ll have it ready by then.” Both of the girls smiled, already plotting how they were going to set up for this party, as OJ stepped out. That could have definitely gone worse, and OJ was thankful it didn’t. Truly, after he and MePhone had started going out, Salt had completely backed off, barely ever speaking to him at all anymore, really. It was great. But that always just made approaching her about something after the fact feel incredibly awkward. Oh well. It was better this way, anyways.

…

MePhone sighed, getting off the bed. Most of his worries, with the help of OJ’s comfort, had faded, but that didn’t mean some of those feelings were still lingering. His brother was regressing back behind a large wall, and MePhone wanted-- well, more like needed to tear it down, so his brother wouldn’t end up doing something he’d end up regretting, to himself, or anyone else. Even if 4S wasn’t up for it, MePhone was going to go talk to him. He stretched out his arms as he stood, heading to the door. He knew this was going to be a long afternoon.

After going around and asking a bit, he realized 4S had gone out to TestTube’s lab for something, and wasn’t back yet, so he decided, despite the cold, tiring temperature, he was going to wait outside for his brother to come back.
Thankfully, he didn’t have to wait long, watching from the hotel, as 4S came in to view, from the direction of the lab exit. He noticed how as soon as 4S saw him, he stopped, almost hesitating, before continuing to walk in the direction. 4S’s plan was to just ignore him, and lock himself away in his room again, since, well, the outside wasn’t an option if MePhone was out here, but as he moved his hand to the door handle, he could only pause, as MePhone called out to him;
“Wait, please,”
4S furrowed his brows, frustrated at this. He didn’t want to do this right now. Not when his feelings were already starting to get away from him. The coiling guilt and frustration, and everything was just getting worse, and he needed to release it all, but not on MePhone. He’d never forgive himself.
“What.” 4S snapped, the guilt growing stronger.
“Please, sit with me,” MePhone asked, almost pitifully. 4S hesitated, glancing away as his grip on the hotel’s doorknob tightened, before he let out a frustrated noise, letting go, and begrudgingly moving over to sit next to MePhone, not saying anything else, lest he let something out that he didn’t mean.
“I…” MePhone paused, trying to find his words. People had been doing that a lot today around 4S, huh. He didn’t blame them, really, not MePhone, or Knife, for any of this. This was his own problem. His own fault, and his own emotions he had to stamp out. It wasn’t working so well anymore, though.

“I’m sorry.” MePhone let out, unable to think of anything else. 4S could feel the guilt coil even tighter around him at this, unable to speak up, as his brother continued, a tightness forming in his throat, not letting the words escape;
“I… don’t know how to help you when you’re shutting everyone out. I- I didn’t want this to happen,” MePhone frowned, glancing away. “If I knew you were going to be so miserable, I- I wouldn’t have pushed you about it. If I knew you were going to come back, only to be constantly unhappy, I- I didn’t… I didn’t want to put you through this, through any of this,” MePhone’s voice broke a bit as his tone grew quiet, unable to get his own words out. Something in 4S snapped at this. MePhone thought it was his fault. That all of this was his fault. 4S felt like a terrible friend, a terrible brother, for doing nothing but making everyone worry, and hurt over him. He didn’t want any of this. He-- He didn’t even know if he wanted to be here anymore, if… If all he was doing was harm. He stood up abruptly, MePhone flinching a bit as he did, this not going unnoticed by 4S, who tensed up himself, glaring at the other phone.
“Stop worrying about me.” Was what he said, his tone nothing but angry, and frustrated, though that wasn’t what he wanted to get out.
“I- I can’t help it,” MePhone frowned, getting to his feet too.
“Well you better learn to. I- I don’t need you, or anyone worrying, or caring about me, because all that’s doing is hurting you.”
“4S--” MePhone reached out a hand, but was cut off.
“I’m broken, and unlovable, and horrible, and you are none of those things, and all I’m doing is making you worse. All I’ve done while I’ve been back is hurt you! I’m sick of it!” 4S raised his voice, his frustration showing, but it wasn’t towards MePhone, it was towards himself.
“You-- you aren’t any of those things! You’re trying so hard to figure everything out, and yeah, it’s hard, and difficult, but Gods, you’re trying! You--”
“I’m done letting you worry about me!”
“That-- we’ve had this conversation already, haven’t we? I can’t help but worry about you, because I care! I care about you, okay? And seeing you like this hurts, yeah, but that’s just how it is! If you would just talk to me, talk to anyone, really! You can’t keep shutting everything out!” It was MePhone’s turn to raise his voice. He needed to get through to 4S.
“Just shut up!” 4S yelled out, acting on impulse, doing what he believed would push the other away completely-- by quite literally shoving him back into the wall of the hotel. MePhone hit the wall with a grunt, sliding down to a sitting position, as he quickly composed himself, looking up at 4S with an expression that 4S just… couldn’t process. He froze completely, unable to process anything, really, as he realized what he had done.

4S staggered back, his breathing picking up as his eyes widened. That was one way to burn his bridges, he figured, as he didn’t even wait, turning to run away, the guilt, and everything else becoming far too overwhelming as he sprinted towards the woods. He didn’t look back, he couldn’t, not seeing MePhone get up, running after. Despite how unexpected all of this was, MePhone wasn’t letting him do this. He wasn’t letting him go. 4S ran, and ran, until he couldn’t anymore, sprinting through the forest, tripping over a root, and face planting. Sure, his screen was extra durable now, and thank the Gods it didn’t crack because of this, but it hurt. As his shaking hands hoisted his screen away from the ground, this was when all of his pent up feelings broke out, with an angry sob. He was so angry, at everything, at himself, for letting this get away from him, all because he just couldn’t handle the possibility of being in love. How he was just so scared of that, that he had ruined absolutely everything good in his life.

Him tripping gave MePhone the chance to finally catch up, leaning on a tree to catch his breath, looking at the state of his brother as he curled up and cried, letting out all his emotions, as MePhone said nothing, stepping over to place a hand on his back, doing his best to soothe him as he let it all out.
“I- I’m scared,” 4S let out through sobs.
“It’s okay, I promise it’s okay,” MePhone frowned. There was nothing else he could say at the moment, really.
“I- Gods, you- you’re right, she was right, I- I’m terrified, I- I don’t know what to do,” 4S heaved out, feeling the coiling inside him that he had been feeling for the past few days release, as he let this all out, and it was almost relieving. It would’ve been nicer if what he was feeling wasn’t terror, and regret. But he couldn’t really do much about that. MePhone remained by his brother’s side, much like he had the last time the two had found themselves in the woods.
“Just let it go, you- you’ve been strong for so long, I- you deserve to let yourself feel this, embrace it, I- I know it’s scary, but… I promise you you’ll be so much happier if you don’t shove it down,” MePhone frowned, knowing this all too well for himself. This was hard, but it was necessary. He just had to hope he was getting through to his brother, as the sobs eventually died down.
“I’m sorry. For shoving you. For causing this mess in the first place. I… I’m just having such a hard time… figuring out these new emotions, after not being allowed to feel much at all. It’s… It’s really scary.” 4S frowned, shifting a bit to be sitting down normally where he was. “I’m sorry this keeps happening.”
“It’s… It’s okay,”
“It’s not,” 4S’s frown deepened a bit as MePhone glanced away.
“I’m not going to hold it against you,”
“I know. I wish you would sometimes. I keep making these mistakes, and I… I just don’t understand how you forgive me so easily.”
“Because I care, and I know you’re trying.”
“... I still shouldn’t have lashed out.”
“Yeah, but it’s kinda too late to take it back now,” MePhone let out a lighthearted huff, still just trying to keep things positive now.
It was silent for a few moments, both of them seeming to calm down, and 4S’s emotions seeming to mellow out, as he had let most of it out.

“... I… Should be honest with you.” 4S fiddled with his hands a bit, unable to look at his brother.
“What?”
“I… I’m going somewhere, with TestTube, and Taco soon.”
“... What?” MePhone frowned, still holding some lasting disdain towards the vial after all of her rude secrecy towards him.
“That’s what the ship is for. I promise I’ll tell you about it when we’re back, okay? Don’t… Hate her for hiding so much from you.”
“... How long will you be gone?”
“Probably just for the evening. It won’t be a permanent thing, just a simple thing.”
MePhone sighed, moving to a sitting position too, sliding one of his hands through the surrounding blades of grass.
“Okay. Whatever it is, stay safe, okay?”
“Of course.”
It was silent again for a bit.
“This is… uncomfortable. The grass, I mean. I think I’d like to head back to the hotel. I… Need to apologize to Knife, anyways.”
“Okay,” MePhone got up, helping 4S get to his feet, too. “Are… you going to talk to him about…”
“No, I don’t think I should. I- I’m… done trying to hide it, but I still need to figure out exactly what it is, for myself. Just give me time, okay?”
“Of course.” MePhone smiled wearily, this having been emotionally exhausting for the both of them. The two headed back to the hotel in relative silence, but the tension that had been in the air lately was gone now. It was nice not feeling so stressed anymore about this.

4S knew he still had a lot to learn, figuring out his emotions and such, and he was glad he’s learned this lesson, at least, but it had definitely taken a lot out of him. He was sure that unlike most days lately, he wasn’t going to have too much trouble sleeping tonight. For that, and honestly for all of the patience MePhone was giving him, he was grateful. He was also very glad to finally have a clear mind, so he wouldn’t have to go up on the Meeple mission with a foggy mind, because he knew that was going to be tough on its own, but at least if it was really so soon, he could get it over with quickly. Though he didn’t leave anything physical up in that building-- not really owning anything of his own during the time up there, he wasn’t lying when he had said he needed something from up there. It might’ve been stupid, or cheesy, or whatever, but he wasn’t planning on leaving that building until he got the closure he deserved for everything that shitty man put him through.

Chapter Text

4S didn't dream often. When he did, it was frustrating, strange, and abstract. That, or his dreams were vivid, terrifying memories of the times he was stuck in Meeple, but… tonight, as he slept, his dream was neither of those things. He was in his room, with Knife. The two of them were sitting on the same bed, just staring into each other's eyes, as Knife carefully moved his hands up to carefully remove his sunglasses, placing them on the nightstand beside the bed. 4S could feel the warmth radiating between the two as Knife smiled, moving a hand to caress the side of the phone's face, 4S unintentionally leaning into the touch, realizing that he did, and growing flustered at the idea, wow that was embarrassing, but Knife only chuckled softly, his gruff, lovely voice filling the air, while also filling 4S's mechanical stomach with figurative butterflies.
"I…" 4S began, but he couldn't get the words out.
"You don't have to say it. I know."
And as the two leaned in, almost timidly inching closer to each other.

Of course that was when 4S's eyes shot open, as he laid alone in his bed, his screen incredibly warm as he slapped a hand over his mouth to stifle the sounds of his breathing. He slowly sat up, careful not to make much sound, even though he knew Knife was a deep sleeper, he wasn't risking anything, as he glanced over, seeing him in his own bed, softly snoring away the night. 4S let out a soft huff. Despite having no trouble falling asleep earlier, due to what happened earlier, he was wide awake now, and incredibly flustered, and as he checked the time, of course, it was still incredibly early in the morning. Just his luck, really. He sighed out, quietly getting out of his bed, and grabbing his shades. He might as well do something with this time, as he'd rather not be stuck sitting here until a reasonable time, festering in the fluster he felt. So he headed down to the lobby, not switching on the TV or anything, just sitting there, taking in the low ambience of the hotel during this hour, the low humming of the fridge, the low shuffle of a few objects upstairs that were still awake at this hour. He had anger management today, another Wednesday to get through. He was fine with that though, the past two courses he took with Paintbrush had been fine, and he didn't have any problems with it. He'd never admit it to anyone, but the time he spent there talking through stuff definitely helped him. Right now though, he had finally calmed down from… Well, whatever that dream had been. He wondered if this was going to turn into a reoccurring thing. Really, he hoped not. Being flustered like that felt odd. It wasn't bad, and he sure as hell wasn't going to try to repress it-- he had learned that lesson yesterday, so… He supposed it wouldn't be that bad of a problem. He'd live with it for now, if it was.

…

Knife leans back on the bed, staring over at Pickle, his roommate-- or well, they had been roommates before Knife had to go room with 4S, but he didn’t mind. He and Pickle were playing something on their own respective hand-held consoles together, this game being more lighthearted than the usual fighting, or racing games they’d play together, this one being co-op, and about building and destroying things. The two of them were mostly silent, mostly speaking about the game, what they were doing in it at the moment, or if they needed assistance with a hostile that was bothering either of their characters while gathering resources to build in the game. It was casual, like it always was, and they chose to play it up in the room today because the TV was occupied on this specific Wednesday by Lightbulb and the usual few that hung out with her all the time, excluding Paintbrush, as they were holding their ‘anger management’ talk with 4S. Today was casual enough, to where Knife felt comfortable to open up to Pickle about something that had been on his mind lately. See, he hadn’t really thought about it until after the fact, but there was something about the moment he and 4S shared when he gave that phone the flower, when they were on the mainland. How Knife woke up every morning the following few days to see the flower still on the nightstand, before 4S had to get rid of it when it wilted. How Knife realized that could’ve been taken in… Well, not a very platonic way, was where his thoughts were headed. Not to mention the same night, where he basically told 4S he wanted to be a constant support system for the phone. He didn’t know when his own feelings started, knowing it was always harder to fall in love, and how he barely ever felt romantic towards anyone, most of his feelings like that fading before anything could really be explored, but… How he felt about 4S was lasting a lot longer than it usually would. This was strange to Knife, but not unwelcome. Though, he really just wondered why him, of all objects? Oh well.
“Hey, Pickle?”
“Yeah?” Pickle briefly glanced up from his console at the blade, before looking back down as he was busy attacking an enemy in the game, wincing as it killed him.
“Er-- sorry for distracting you, I’ll help you get your gear back.”
“No, no it’s fine dude, what’s up?”
“So y’know how I’ve been roomed with 4S, right?”
“What, are you finally catching feelings?” Pickle joked, a smirk on his face, before noticing Knife’s silence. He glanced up again, pausing his game as he noticed Knife’s absolutely deadpan stare towards him. “Oh, oh shit dude I was kidding??” Pickle chuckled.
“Well jeez, you got it in one.” Knife sighed, a bit sheepish.
“Nice, you gonna do anything about it, or let it die out like usual?” Pickle went back to mostly focusing on the game.
“I dunno. Honestly, I’m starting to think he has a thing for me,”
“Like everyone else?” Pickle scoffed, obviously joking. If Knife were any closer, he would’ve punched him in the arm for that one, but alas, the two were sitting on separate beds.
"I mean, not to be mean or anything but I don't think he's really subtle about it. I honestly just can't tell if he's trying to be or not,"
"I mean, the dude barely has a grasp on emotions right? Do you even think he knows?" Pickle shrugged.
"... Gods, is this going to be something I have to talk to him about? He just started acting normal again I don't want to screw him over again,"
"Well don't then, you could just not say anything, and let your feelings fade like always, I mean knowing you I'm surprised that you're actually talking to me about this."
"Wow, you're bad at giving advice dude." Knife rolled his eyes.
"Hey, you're the advice guy, not me. I'm just surprised you aren't figuring this out for yourself, is all."
"... Fair enough, but uh… I dunno, these feelings have been around for a while,"
"How long?"
"Well er… I think I realized it after the day me and him went out to the mainland, I'm not really sure though,"
"Wow, that long?"
"Yeah."
"Just tell him, easy."
"Yeah, sure, once you tell-"
“Hey, no, no. Not doing this." Pickle narrowed his eyes, though not actually angry or anything as he looked over at Knife, knowing exactly what he was about to say.
"See? It's not that easy." Knife chuckled.
"Fine, fine." Pickled sighed out, lightheartedly, as the two mostly went back to focusing on the game the two were playing. Yeah, maybe he'd get around to talking to 4S about it at some point, but it could wait.

…

Anger management today was more of the same, as it had been during the past two weeks, Paintbrush and 4S just casually talking about ways to cope with things that make them angry, and such. He didn’t mind, though, knowing at least, that this had mostly helped, despite his occasional bad days, like yesterday-- though that wasn’t an anger related issue. More of 4S pushing himself to do the exact wrong thing in a situation, but oh well. It was done and over with now.
Near the end of the hour this usually took, their conversation reached an end, and Paintbrush started a new one, with a question;
“I uh, I dunno if you wanna talk about it, but I was told you weren’t doing so great lately?”
Of course they had heard. 4S sighed. “It’s over now. I’m normal again.”
“Do you know what caused it? Or did you just start feeling bad, because I can give tips for handling bad days too, if you need,”
“It wasn’t like that. I was just… repressing my feelings.” 4S fiddled with his hands, glancing away from the brush as they gave him an almost disappointed look.
“Yeah, that’ll definitely screw you over, uh, but you’re not doing that anymore, right?”
“Yeah. I don’t think I am, at least. I’ve… Got it mostly figured out, I hope.”
“You hope?”
“That’s the best I can do.”
“If you ever fall back into that habit, don’t hesitate to talk to people, okay?”
“... Right.”
“Okay, good, well I think that does it for this session, uh… Just let me know in the next few days if you need to meet up next week, I think you’re doing better, from what I’m seeing, at least.”
“Okay.” And 4S leaves, stepping out of the stage, and art room, down the hall, into the… Unpleasantly busy lobby. OJ, MePhone, and who 4S recognized immediately as Salt and Pepper were in the lobby, discussing something. He leaned on a wall in the room, listening in, to be nosy.
“Well I just thought we could make getting the decorations for this party a lot easier if you just tell us what you guys have planned.” OJ sounded mildly annoyed. Salt scoffed. “We don’t like, need his help with this. You approached us for this, not him. Let us work OUR magic, and just like, scram, or whatever. I’m sure you have like. Hotel work to do or something anyways.” Salt was as rude as ever, her hands on her hips as she glared at the cup.
“Y’know what, fine. This isn’t even… Gods, you two are annoying.” OJ groaned, taking MePhone’s hand, and stepping away, leading the two down the hall towards his office, but not before MePhone noticed 4S, giving a passing wave to the other phone as the two made their exit. Well, that was weird. 4S headed into the kitchen now, not wanting to bother with whatever Salt or Pepper were doing-- it sounded like party decoration. He’d have to ask MePhone about that if he ever found the right time, but now, despite not needing to, he kind of felt like eating. The problem with that, though, was that he didn’t really understand most of the stuff that was here, boxed away, and behind packaging. 4S noticed the cookie jar he had got for MePhone a while ago on the counter now, displayed confidently next to the toaster. At least he knew what appliances were, at least being taught basic electronic and appliance knowledge during his time in the cloud. It didn’t mean he knew how to use much of it though, and he wasn’t about to risk accidentally starting a fire, or anything, so he leaned over the counter, reaching over to the cookie jar, curious if anything was actually in it or not. He removed the lid, reaching inside, and sure enough there were cookies inside. He took one out, almost examining every little detail about it, trying to determine its flavor, or its ingredients without actually tasting it. He just had to figure it was a chocolate chip cookie, based on what it looked like. He glanced around, making sure nobody was watching him, before giving it a small bite. The taste of flour and chocolate was… not very great.

He cringed a bit at the flavor, not liking it at all. After a few moments of staring at the cookie in his hand, he glanced up, noticing MePhone leaning in the entryway to the room, with a raised eyebrow. 4S jolted, dropping the cookie; “I wasn’t doing anything!” He yelled out a lot louder than he meant to, watching as MePhone just laughed.
“What-- why are you laughing!?” 4S barked out, a bit on edge now.
“Sorry, sorry, just watching you be so secretive about eating is a bit ridiculous, what’s up with that, anyways?”
“I was… Curious. I uh…” He glanced down to the dropped cookie. “I didn’t like it.”
“Really? Geez why do the people around me have such bad taste!” MePhone held his hands up, exasperated.
“Excuse me?” 4S crossed his arms, the feeling of being on edge fading away at his brother’s casual attitude.
“Listen, chocolate chip cookies are great, okay? The best there is.” MePhone kneeled down, picking up the cookie off the floor, moving it to the trash, sticking his tongue out at the other phone as he did.
“Well cookies must just all be awful because that wasn’t good.”
MePhone just scoffed, stepping over to the jar and taking a cookie out that hopefully hadn’t been on the floor, biting into it, as he leaned back on the counter.
“So, what was that about? With the spices?”
MePhone raised an eyebrow at that, finding it just a bit amusing how 4S referred to Salt and Pepper.
“Oh, nothing. We’re hosting a party on Friday, and we were gonna offer to help with decorations, but they just aren’t interested.”
“They seemed a bit rude about it, from what I heard.”
“Yeah, that’s just how they are,” MePhone shrugged, finishing the cookie, and reaching for another, before placing the lid to the jar back on.
“What are you up to today?” MePhone glanced over to 4S, who shrugged.
“I am just… ‘hanging around’.” He’d use air quotes, his expression as neutral and deadpan as ever.
“Wanna do something then? OJ’s busy writing, so I have nothing better to do,”
“Er… I’ve found out our ideas of fun vastly differ, so I’m almost afraid to say yes.”
“Oh c’mon, we can just go watch a movie or something, you don’t have to insult everything I like today.” MePhone scoffed, not actually taking offense to anything his brother was saying, thankfully.
“Fine. I want to pick the movie though.”
“Uh,”
“Oh so now you don’t want to hang out? If I’m the one choosing?” 4S smirked, looking over at MePhone who rolled his eyes; “No, that’s not what I-- whatever, c’mon.”
He stepped away from the counter, gesturing for 4S to follow, and he did, the two sitting down on the couch-- much to Salt and Peppers displeasure, as they were still plotting out how they were going to decorate everything, as the phone’s claimed the tv for the afternoon. 4S shuffled through the movie application, not recognizing a single movie or show listed. He didn’t even know who any of the actors listed on these movies were. He supposed that couldn’t be helped when he never looked into that when he was alive, and well, the many many years spent… Not alive. Eventually, after plenty of impatient sighs from MePhone, he found one of the only movies he recognized. He grinned, immediately picking it, and letting it play. It was one of those old action movies. It wasn’t the one he had based his personality off of-- this movie application didn’t have those movies, unfortunately, but this one was still very good. It was about this cop-- played by a walkie-talkie, having to deal with an aggressive group taking over a very large building, and the cop having to try to save the hostages and employees of the building. 4S was thoroughly enjoying the movie, but MePhone’s focus was more on 4S most of the time, watching how his brother was so enthralled in the movie, not letting his focus leave it once, and it was nice. Honestly, this had to be the most emotion MePhone had ever seen from his brother. He was just glad it was in a positive sense. It was nice, really, seeing him this passionate about something. Eventually, the movie ended, and 4S glanced over to MePhone, who had… Fallen asleep at some point during the third act of the movie. 4S sighed, not angry, or unhappy or anything at this fact, honestly just sighing. He’d let MePhone sleep for a bit.

…

It was Thursday now, and OJ was once again assigned with figuring out if they had the right supplies for snacks and such. This was a task he was definitely doing with MePhone, who helped by generating the snacks they didn’t have prepared, making things so much easier.
“So uh, winter party, huh?”
“Yeah, I know, the theme is kinda lame, but I don’t have any other excuses… That, and the holiday party is still a few months away, and I felt like we could use some ‘livening up’ at the hotel. Things were getting slow for me again,”
“Yeah, I get it.”
“How have things been going for you then?”
“Oh-- uh, things are going alright, I guess, I mean, I’m managing,” MePhone shrugged, checking off an item from the list OJ handed him.
“You say that like things aren’t alright, is everything okay?” OJ softened his expression a bit, glancing at the phone.
“I- yeah, I’m just nervous is all. 4S is going off and doing something tomorrow, and I’ve been kept in the dark about it by everyone else involved and it… It just worries me that it might be something dangerous.” MePhone frowned, before generating another snack, marking off the last thing from the list.
“Oh, uh… Who else is involved?”
“Taco, and TestTube.” MePhone sighed, OJ’s mild concern also shifting into worry now.
“Oh… Uh, yeah that does sound… No, no, I’m sure it’s fine. He’ll be fine, okay?” OJ quickly took up a soft smile, placing a hand on MePhone’s shoulder. MePhone chuckled a bit, before returning the smile. He was still worried, but OJ was right. Surely things would be fine.

…

4S sat in his room, staring at his hands. He wasn’t in a mental funk or anything today, really, other than the nervous pit that had been growing in his stomach-- but it was fine. He knew if he expressed how nervous he had become over the mission tomorrow, he’d be asked to not come, for his own sake, and he just couldn’t have that. He also knew that stifling and repressing this, and keeping it in was also apparently bad, and would just make things worse. He just… Didn’t know who to talk to about this. He sighed, slowly moving his hands over his eyes, having yet to put his shades on. This was fine. He’d be fine. He took a deep breath in, and then out, the nerves fading just enough to let him feel like he could function for a bit. This was when he remembered Knife was in the room with him at the moment. 4S glanced up, moving his hands away from his eyes, almost hoping Knife was minding his own business, but of course, the blade was staring up from a graphic novel he was reading at him. 4S stifled a sigh. Just his luck, really.
“You good, dude?”
“Yes. I’m optimal-- er, fine.” 4S internally cringed. He was trying really hard to fix his ‘weirdly formal’ talk, but sometimes he still slipped up with it. Knife thankfully didn’t comment about it this time, just offering his usual, almost confident smirk.
“Well, if you need to get anything off your chest-- not literally, I’m here to listen if you need to talk, uh, yeah.” Knife coughed into his hand, before glancing back down to the comic he held in his hands. That was weird.
“You didn’t need to clarify. I understood the expression.”
“For once?”
“... Yes.” 4S stifled a rude remark, deeming it wasn’t worth it, and that he wasn’t actually that offended at that little comment.
“I’ll keep that in mind, then. But really, I’m here to listen.”
“... Okay.” 4S couldn’t stifle the sigh this time, flopping down on his bed. Maybe it’d be fine to talk to Knife about it-- as long as he remained vague.
“I’m nervous.”
“You? Nervous?” Knife joked.
“Not helping.”
“Sorry, go on,”
“I’m… Doing something tomorrow.”
“Oh?”
“Yeah. I’m doing something, and er, that thing is what’s making me nervous, but it’s something I have to do.” 4S was completely oblivious to how this would sound from an outside perspective- let alone Knife’s perspective, who had the suspicion the phone was into him.
“Huh…”
“It’s something I have to do, and I know it has to be done, but that… Doesn’t get rid of my feelings. I know I’ll feel better once it’s over with, and I’ve gotten it done, but…”
“But you’re still almost scared to do it during the time leading up to it?”
“Yes. Pretty much.”
“I’d say just get it over with. I’m sure whatever this thing is, you’ll look back on it afterwards and laugh at the fact you were nervous in the first place.”
“Right. Yeah. uh… Thank you. For mostly listening.”
“Yeah, of course.” Knife smiled again, a smile that made 4S feel warm, this alone helping distract from the worry, even for just a little bit. Then and there, he decided. Once he was back, and he had gotten everything Meeple related out of his systems, he would tell Knife how he felt. He didn’t want to be slogged down with worrying about it before the fact, so after it would be the best time. That, and he felt ready.

Knife, of course, was internally freaking out. Though he kept up his suave and collected exterior as he skimmed through the graphic novel he was reading, his mind was racing. Tomorrow?? Was he just crazy and overreacting? He didn’t know. He’d really just have to wait and see to figure out what 4S had been talking about-- really, it could’ve been anything, but Gods, the phrasing really made it seem like something else, whatever it was. Honestly, if he was interpreting what he had said correctly, he was just a little surprised how blunt 4S was basically being about it, despite how shut-in he had been previously when it came to his emotions, just a few days prior. Whatever. He closed the book, but not too quickly, trying to remain calm and collected, as he got up, placing the book on his nightstand.
“Heading out for a bit unless you need me to stay, just, uh… behave. You know the deal.” Knife shrugged, walking out. The second the door shut behind him, he moved a hand to his face, feeling how warm his cheeks were. Gods, this was weird.

…

“So, you’re going on that big mission tomorrow, huh? I’m guessing you won’t be at the party then?”
“Yes, and not like I show up to the hotel parties anyways. Too loud for my liking-- and the fact most residents there don’t favor me.” Taco took a sip from her tea cup. Despite the cold weather, her, Microphone, and Soap were all out near the hotel, sharing some tea, and sandwiches. A picnic, basically.
“What’s this mission anyways? It’s not going to cause a mess to the hotel, is it?” Soap frowned, fiddling with the cup in her hands.
“Of course that’s what you’re concerned about.” Taco rolled her eyes half heartedly at the other girl.
“It’s a valid concern!”
“Yes, well, it’s not a problem. Nothing will happen to the hotel. That I can promise.” Both Microphone and Soap would notice how Taco’s expression soured a bit, and she glanced to the side.
“You… made that face you make when you’re hiding something, y’know.” Microphone frowned.
“I- That wasn’t intentional. I’m just worried about it.”
“Why are you worried? It was your idea.”
“I… I just think it’s reasonable to be worried. Meeple headquarters could be full of traps, and I could die, and not get anything out of going, is all.” She lied, seamlessly. She felt horrible for lying to her partners. If they knew what she was dealing with, they’d understand, but they couldn’t know. She couldn’t let them know. She knew Microphone would be so disappointed in her. Honestly, that’s what hurt the most, but… She had a job to do. Like every other job she’s done, she just had to get it over with, and seek forgiveness later. That’s how it always worked for her. It was on those who expected anything else from her, really. As unfortunate as that was. She took a moment to let her expression return to something more neutral, before the casual conversation between the three continued. Tomorrow was going to be a big day, for everyone involved. She just hoped what she was doing would be enough for Cobs to keep his word for once. The last thing she wanted was for anyone at the hotel to get hurt. This was for them. She reminded herself, looking at her loving partners with a soft smile as the two of them talked away about something she had tuned out a while prior. This was for them. If they knew, they’d understand. That’s what she had to keep telling herself.

…

It was Friday now, and just after dinner. The party was starting soon, and MePhone and 4S were standing at the doors to the hotel, outside.
“I’ll… see you later tonight. That’s a promise, okay?”
“You’re still really worrying me with this wording, but yeah. I believe you. Talk to you tonight. I’ll let you know if anything interesting happens during the party, okay?” MePhone gave a nervous smile to his brother, and despite not smiling much-- due to it usually feeling awkward, 4S smiled back, for good measure. MePhone shuffled in place a bit, still very nervous about whatever he was going off to do. 4S sighed, before opening his arms, MePhone immediately hugged him. During his time alive again, he noticed how much his brother valued physical affection. He returned the hug, patting his brother’s back, before pulling away.
“TestTube will be unhappy if I’m late.”
“Yeah, I know, don’t tell her I’m the reason you were,” MePhone grinned, before turning back towards the doors, ready to go back inside. It was really cold outside this evening. 4S gave one last nod, before heading out towards the scientist’s lab. This was going to be an eventful night.

.
.
.

The party had started now, and was going smoothly. MePhone and OJ were going around talking to some of the others who had shown up, genuinely enjoying themselves this time, rather than being nervous about confessing to each other. MePhone had never been lying when he said he enjoyed parties. This also was serving as a good distraction from his worries. He was sure 4S would be fine. Everything would be fine.

Chapter Text

It was several months prior, when Taco received a phone call… Or, well, several. She ignored them at first, figuring if it was anyone at the hotel, well, they’d just have to come talk to her directly, but after the seventh call from the same number, she answered, very annoyed.
“Hello.” A familiar voice spoke through the other end… Did they allow him these phone calls in prison? Taco sneered at the voice, having half a mind to hang up and block the number, but… She couldn’t help but be a bit curious.
“What is it? Are you here to beg me for something now that you’ve been locked away again?” Taco hoped her snarky attitude was apparent through her tone.
“Cool it. I’m here with an offer.”
“So you are begging. In case you haven’t noticed, the last two times you’ve done something, you’ve just gotten yourself into deeper shit. I don’t know why I should do anything for you if you’re going to drag me down, too.” Taco didn’t even wait for a response, before hanging up. She wasn’t going to entertain whatever it was he wanted. She was happy now, and the idea of MePhone getting taken out, and her recovery being taken away permanently didn’t sound great. Maybe she was selfish, but it was fine.

.
.
.

It was two weeks later, after not a single phone call, before they came in again. Today though, she felt like listening, just to see if she found it funny. She felt like laughing in his face, and denying whatever it was, anyways.
What she had answered to though, was unsavory. A threat. Not to her, but to the hotel. To the residents. Cobs explained how he still had one operational MePhone X-- a backup plan, in place. If she didn’t comply, she’d have it come and take out MePhone itself, and then everyone else at that hotel. It was either MePhone, or everyone. She scoffed at first, of course, why would she believe him, but… She wouldn’t put this past him. It was when he provided proof, telling her about a location he had hidden away in the woods on the island-- something he put together the last time he had pulled something. Sure enough, after the phone call had ended, she checked, being curious.
Cobs was not known for making empty threats. He had cast his trap, and she had fallen for it.

He kept calling through the months leading up to it, as she was helping chart out the course, as she helped with the ship, as she went on, appearing to everyone else as if nothing was happening, giving her details on what to do-- only, the plan completely changing just about a week ago when he called last. He had figured out 4S was back, and his new plan was simple. In his desk, in his office, he had a hard drive, and that contained the workings for a system override. She simply had to use it on 4S, and let him do the rest. She didn’t dare ask what that was going to do to him, and through this time, she made sure to stay away from MePhone, and 4S, not needing any emotional attachment to either. Though she had grown to find MePhone’s company amusing, if it meant the hotel would be safe, she could do without him. She knew how hard this was going to be on OJ, though. She just had to make sure her involvement wasn’t going to be found out. She had to be smart about this. As the sun set above, and the ship was transported above ground, TestTube preparing for launch as Taco and 4S remained seated, making sure they were both secure, she kept repeating in her thoughts how this was for the better. How Cobs would leave all of them alone if-- no, once this worked. Yeah. This was going to work. It had to.

…

Eventually, MePhone was growing just a bit tired of all the constant interaction with others. He enjoyed parties, but being dragged around with OJ all evening, talking to the objects he usually talked to was wearing thin on his social battery. As he spoke to bomb, and Pickle, MePhone tapped on OJ’s shoulder, pointing over to the door, signaling he was heading out for a breath of fresh air. OJ would nod, turning back to his conversation, MePhone knowing he’d go out and find him once he was done talking to the others. He stepped out, taking a deep breath, taking in the cold air, immediately shuttering. He didn’t know how his brother was able to handle this temperature so well-- and… ah, that was another reminder.
“Oh, you’re out here too?” A voice cut through his worries, MePhone jolting a bit as he looked over, noticing Fan was out here too, bundled up in a scarf, though a bit awkwardly considering his frame. He looked comfortable enough, though.
“AH-- uh, I totally noticed you.” Good save, MePhone.
“Haha, yeah, uh… You wanna sit with me or are you going back in?” Fan shrugged, getting the offer out there.
“Oh, uh, sure. It was getting stuffy in there anyways.” MePhone shrugged too, stepping over to sit next to him.
“Not that parties seem like your thing, but what are you doing out here?”
“Oh, well, I’m just waiting for TestTube to get back,” Fan gave an almost sad smile, looking down at the grass.
“Huh?”
“Er-- well, she’s out doing something tonight, and I um…” Fan’s sad smile turned into a frown. “I’m worried. I really didn’t want her to go out and do this, but Taco convinced her it was a good idea, and--”
“Hey, It’s okay, she’ll be fine.” MePhone spoke, cutting him off. He knew how unpleasant it was to spiral, and he knew if he let Fan spiral, he was going to get worried, too. He didn’t need that tonight.
“I just-- I can’t say what it is, but I know if you knew, you’d be worried too.”
“Well when you put it like that, yeah. Maybe just try thinking about something else? I dunno.” MePhone shrugged, glancing away. He wasn’t going to let this ruin his night. He wasn’t going to let himself spiral. It was quiet for a bit.
“Sorry about that,” Fan took a deep breath, calming himself down. Seemed like he wasn’t the only one worried. That only made him more scared of what the three of them had gone off to do, but he wasn’t going to admit that to anyone.
“Yeah, it’s fine.” MePhone glanced away, still shuttering from the cold. He wondered if OJ had forgotten to come out, or if he had changed his mind. Maybe he’d go back in soon. He was just getting sad out here-- and he knew Fan didn’t mean to, he was just… usually this anxious and worried, and he couldn’t help it when he said or did things to make other people worry too. MePhone couldn’t hold that against him. Eventually, Fan stood with a sigh. “Sitting out here and festering in the cold is kinda making me feel worse, so I’m gonna uh-- head inside,” Fan glanced down at MePhone, but neither of them made eye-contact. Fan pulled off his scarf, offering it to the phone. He just shook his head.
“I’ll just uh…” MePhone paused, generating a blanket for himself. “Yeah.” He said, as he moved away from the wall a bit, wrapping himself in the blanket.
“Um, if you’re going back in there, can you ask OJ to come out here, please?” MePhone looked up at Fan, who was fiddling with the scarf in his hands.
“Yeah, sure, I will if I see him!” Fan gave a weary smile, and a thumbs up, before speed walking over to the doors, heading back in. A deep breath in, and out. He had nothing to be worried about. He felt silly for being this scared, really, but… He couldn’t help it. Gods, why did it have to be the same day as the party? He just wanted to have fun, he… He just needed to know he wasn’t going to lose 4S again. He moved a hand over his mouth, stifling the noise from a hitch of his breath, as he could feel himself spiralling. He knew Fan hadn’t meant it, but gods, he was so scared. He shut his eyes tight, trying so hard not to cry. OJ was probably going to come out and see him soon, and MePhone refused to let the cup walk out and see him like this. He sat there, composing himself for a few minutes, before moving his hand away from his mouth, letting out a shaking breath. In, out. At least he had that under control, as the doors to the hotel opened, OJ finally stepped out.
“Hey, sorry for taking so long,” OJ offered a smile, stepping over as MePhone got to his feet, putting on his best smile.
“Hey,” MePhone hoped the shakiness in his tone wasn’t so apparent, or noticeable, as he kept the blanket draped around his shoulders, moving a hand to hold one of OJ’s.
“It’s really cold out, are you okay out here?”
“Yeah… It just makes me a bit sleepy, but it’s not uh… Actively harmful for my systems.” He was thankful for the casual conversation, not having to think about his immediate worries. He’d have time to think about it later, but now, he wanted this moment with OJ. That’s all that mattered, as he shoved aside all of his negative feelings a bit too quickly, moving his hand out of OJ’s, to wrap around his shoulders, as OJ moved his hands to the phone’s sides, below his arms.
“Deja vu, am I right?” OJ smiled, and MePhone couldn’t help but chuckle.
“Yeah, not exactly. I think I remember us doing something else that night, too,” MePhone said with a smirk. OJ rolled his eyes. “Forward, tonight, huh? Not yet though, I recall us dancing before that.” OJ swayed a bit, the blaring music from inside being a good enough ambience, much like it had been during the fall dance all those months ago. OJ had to wonder if this was going to become a habit, during all the parties he planned on holding. If it was, well, he didn’t mind one bit, as the two swayed a bit to the low ambience. After a while, MePhone huffed, clearly growing impatient. OJ let out a small laugh at this, slowly guiding MePhone over to the wall.
“You really need to learn some patience,” OJ leaned in.
“Do I? My huffing seemed to get the message across well enough.” MePhone smirked, OJ just rolling his eyes. “Maybe this time, but next time, you’re just going to have to learn to wait.” OJ leaned in completely, the two now sharing a moment, MePhone’s worries about everything tonight finally melting away completely, as the warmth he and OJ shared was enough for now. OJ pulled away first, actually having to breath, with a smile as he caught his breath. MePhone smiled back, his screen incredibly warm now.
“I- I know I said this before, but jeez, you get really warm every time we kiss, it’s really cute,”
“Oh shut up!” MePhone lightly shoved OJ away, growing even more flustered.
“Shoving me away? Oh, too bad, I was going to go in for another kiss, but I guess not,” OJ teased, feigning sadness about being pushed away.
“I- I uh, sorry, you can come back over if you want,” MePhone squeaked out, OJ laughing at this, before stepping back in, though just before the two connected, MePhone shoved OJ away again, a bit more forcefully-- though not exactly on purpose. OJ stumbled a bit, catching his balance as he looked up at MePhone, his flustered and romantic mood immediately dropping; “I- Sorry, did I do something wrong?” OJ frowned, worried he had messed this up. MePhone waved his hands out frantically, signaling ‘no’ as he tapped on a notification that was taking up the space where his face usually was. He tapped on it, turning away as he opened up… The MeLife app? OJ was getting really worried now, wondering if something happened in the five minutes he hadn’t been inside the hotel to supervise the party-- but when he tapped on the icon, the familiar shape of TestTube materialized, as she did, falling to her knees, as MePhone pressed his home button, his face returning.
“S- sorry for shoving you,” MePhone immediately apologized to OJ, his own worries returning, because well, of course something like this had to happen. Both of them snapped their attention to TestTube now, who was on her knees, an absolutely horrified expression on her face.
“What happened?” OJ asked, almost scared for the answer.
TestTube shut her eyes tight, adjusting her expression to something closer to despair, as she thought about how she was going to word this. Whatever it was, based on her expressions, and hopeless seeming posture, it wasn’t going to be good.

…

4S felt the knot in his stomach twist as he stepped onto the pathway up to the building. He almost felt sick. But he was taking Knife’s suggestion. Get this over with, and laugh about it later. The sooner the better, anyway. TestTube and Taco also stepped out of the ship now, 4S noticing how on edge Taco was. He’d have to remain weary of her. He wasn’t going to let her behind him… Not that he didn’t trust her, but with how she had acted on the ship, and with how suspicious she was in general, he wasn’t taking the chances. He let the other two lead the way, trailing behind. The main room, the one that usually was for show, was so cold, and empty. It seemed the power in the building was still on. This only made him feel more on edge, as the three of them made it to the side of the room, heading up the stairs to the second floor-- skipping it for now, and heading to the top floor, though 4S couldn’t help but stall at the third floor, letting the other two head up, as he remained down here, heading over past one room, to the second one in the hall. His, and MePhone’s room. He remembered how cold it felt after MePhone left. How lonely everything felt, before that loneliness, and coldness shifted to manufactured rage. He stepped in, flicking on the light switch in the room, examining every little feature, before heading over to the shelves. He couldn’t help but shuffle through them, even if almost all of them were empty. Neither of them were really allowed physical belongings, the only thing 4S was allowed to keep was a gun, and well, he wasn’t going to go looking for that, after the last time he held a gun. He shook off the thoughts, leaving the room almost completely untouched-- at least, not bothering either of the beds, as he stepped over, glancing into the third room, noticing how unkept and messy everything seemed, as if all the cabinets had been shuffled through in a frantic way. But this wasn’t what he was after. He sighed, taking a deep breath, shaking off his terror of being in this building again, as he made his way up to the next few floors to join the other two. The moment he stepped onto the top floor, the feeling of dread and fear reached a peak, as he was barely able to step into the office without trembling. It was cold, and scary, as it had always been. He was finally where he had planned. He ignored the other two in the room, looking at their own respective things in the room, as he stepped behind the desk, kicking the chair away, and turning to flip the desk, letting out a yell as he did, a frustrated, angry yell, as if he were expressing the rage he felt for all the years of abuse and borderline torture from his creator with this desk flip, and, well, it seemed more dramatic than it really was, as the desk just flipped onto its side, all the items being scattered forward on the ground, all the papers fluttering to the floor, and both of the other objects in the room staring at him like he had just murdered someone. He huffed, turning back to the chair, as he lifted it above his head, holding it in his trembling hands, with all his remaining strength, as he slammed it down, watching it break. It was completely silent for a few minutes, just the sound of 4S’s heavy breathing filling the room.
“Are… you okay?”
“What do you think?” 4S snapped, his gaze turning to the vial, who held her hands up defensively.
“Sorry, I just… Did you come here just to destroy?” She asked, carefully.
“Yes. He needs to pay for everything he did to MePhone. For what he did to me,” His voice went a bit more quiet, as the emotional weight of all this was sinking in again, the rage fading away.
“Sorry.” He didn’t know why he was apologizing. He was in the right. He was justified in doing this, after everything. Thankfully for his sake, though Taco remained silent, TestTube understood.
“I won’t begin to try to understand what you went through here, but if this is what you need to do, I won’t stop you.” TestTube gave a nod to the phone.
“... Thank you.” He was just glad he didn’t have to argue.

.
.
.

The three of them were headed back downstairs, to check out the fourth floor of the building at this point, nothing interesting being on the fifth. They were going from the top down, 4S being destructive towards anything they found in the building that directly reminded him of his time there-- which was a lot of stuff. The stuff he didn’t destroy, or didn’t have the energy to do so, was taken by TestTube, to deconstruct, and study for herself. On the fourth floor, they were faced with a locked room, with some kind of scanner. 4S knew what room this was. The storage closet. He moved his hand forward to unlock it-- hoping his handprint wasn’t removed from the database, and this was when he turned his back from Taco, and this, when everyone’s guard was down, was when she made her move.
In just an instant, the second his back turned, it felt like his world was burning. His body was filled with this searing pain, this indescribable pain that didn't let up as it courses through his systems, and when this pain made itself known, he couldn't help but scream. It was painful, and scared, and desperate-- desperate for all of it to just stop, but it didn't. Gods, it hurt so much, and really, it was terrifying. 4S stumbled back away from the door a bit, and collapsed, the solid thought going through his head of; "oh gods, this is what it feels like to die", and though his body didn't shut down yet, as he gasped, and writhed in the pain, watching through blurry vision as his hands twitched, as he curled up in pain, the last thing in his vision, before blacking out, as he looked up slowly, desperate for one of the two here to help him, was TestTube, who stood there, watching in terror at this.

That's when he shut down, his systems finally giving him a break from the horrible pain, laying on the ground in the middle of the MeCloud. Honestly, if he were still conscious, he'd find it funny how he felt like he was meeting his end in the very place that ruined him. Yeah. It would've been funny to him, if it weren't so tragic.

“Wh- what the hell, Taco!?” TestTube yelled out, moving to pull something out of her bag, but she wasn’t quick enough, Taco acting quick as she retracted the stun device she had used, in favor of her gun, which she had already set on lethal. She knew once TestTube was revived, and back down there, her cover was blown, but it was now, or never.
Shattered glass, and bright green liquid littered the floor, along with the bag TestTube had brought. So much for a ‘knowledge retrieval mission’. Without a word-- there wasn’t exactly anyone here to talk to anymore-- she grabbed 4S’s wrist, dragging him along the cold, cold floors. She knew the others wouldn’t take long figuring out a way up there-- the most logical way being to get MePad. She had to work quickly, carefully dragging the completely shut off phone up the stairs, back into the office. She was just glad she had pocketed what she needed from that desk before he had flipped it. She took the harddrive out of her shell, trying to figure out how it worked. Of course he gave no actual instructions for this, so she had to figure this out for herself. She let out a frustrated groan, realizing she was going to need a computer, or laptop for this. Making sure 4S wasn’t going to turn back on anytime soon, she quickly moved to run downstairs, looking for a laptop to bring back up. This was going to be an annoyingly long process, wasn’t it.

…

The party dissolved incredibly quickly, the only objects remaining in the lobby by now being OJ, MePhone, Fan, And TestTube. OJ was pacing in front of the TV, while the other three sat on the couch. Fan sat in the middle, holding TestTube close in a hug, to comfort her. MePhone held the blanket he had generated close, trembling. He was on the verge of tears, and his thoughts were already spiraling.
“So bring this by me again, you guys went up to Meeple? Despite knowing how dangerous and stupid that idea was?”
“I… Yes. Taco convinced me--”
“That’s not an excuse! You can’t just keep doing this! You’re too curious for your own good when it comes to stuff like this, and it always keeps backfiring!” OJ couldn’t help but yell, having seen MePhone’s anxieties overwhelm him the moment TestTube had explained herself. He wasn’t going to let this keep happening. “When are you going to learn?!”
“I’m sorry.” TestTube glanced away, frustrated, mostly with herself. She couldn’t believe she let Taco trick her this easily.
MePhone couldn’t hold any of this in anymore, all of his terror reaching a peak as he sobbed out, grasping at the top of his head. OJ immediately stopped his pacing, moving over to kneel down on the floor next to the phone to provide comfort as he cried.
“He- he’s-- I-- I- I can’t--” He stuttered out, unable to find his words. “I- I can’t-- I can’t lose him again, please, t- tell me this isn’t-- this isn’t real, this isn’t-- h- happening,” He got out, through sobs, OJ soothing him as he spoke, desperately trying to reason with this. What TestTube had told them all sounded… Bad. How it just seemed to be a stun device, but how that was still definitely going to do so much damage, considering 4S was an electronic object.
“I’m sorry, just let it out,” OJ kept soothing, as TestTube got up from the couch, running out, unable to hear any more of this, Fan getting up to follow, glancing back at OJ and MePhone, before fully following TestTube out of the hotel. OJ took this chance to move, sitting up on the couch with MePhone, wrapping his arms around the phone, and holding him close. This was when Knife entered the lobby.
“What happened?” He asked, before fully taking in the scene.
“I… I’ll explain later,” OJ glanced up at Knife, a solemn, sad expression on his face.
“... Okay.” Knife frowned at the sight, before stepping to the side, to the kitchen, giving the two time to deal with whatever had just happened.

As MePhone sobbed, his body still trembling, he moved one of the hands that gripped the top of his frame, to his power button, OJ noticing almost immediately, moving quickly, but carefully to restrain his arm, so he couldn’t shut himself off. MePhone kept his eyes shut tight, as he muttered out a broken; “please” through his sobs.
“I- I know this is scary, but you- you can’t do that, I’m sorry,”
“I can’t-- I can’t do this, I can’t…” MePhone struggled in his partner’s grasp a bit, trying so hard to turn himself off, but OJ couldn’t let him. As much as this hurt, he didn’t want MePhone to feel like he had to take this extreme.
“Listen-- Listen, please, we’ll contact MePad to get us up to Meeple, so we can find him. Okay?” OJ said, his tone still soft, trying to be as comforting as he could be, though still firm about holding MePhone’s hand down so he couldn’t do anything to himself. MePhone couldn’t verbally respond, as his sobs died down, only mustering out a small nod as he didn’t have the energy to struggle anymore.
“We’ll text him, and me and Knife can go up there to find him, and Taco, okay? Things-- things will still be alright. I promise.”
MePhone couldn’t stifle the bitter expression that formed on his face after OJ said this. After all the times OJ had promised things would be okay, it honestly always just felt like a lie at this point, how things only ever got worse. They felt like empty words at this point.

…

Once MePhone had calmed down enough, they texted MePad. It was already very late, and they received no response, figuring the other device was asleep by now. Meaning they had to wait until morning. OJ led MePhone to their shared room, sitting him down on the bed. He was still wrapped up in the blanket he had generated early.
“Listen, I promise I’ll be right back in a few minutes, I need to go tell Knife what’s happening, okay?” OJ looked at the phone with nothing but worry in his expression. MePhone remained unresponsive now, his gaze just slowly falling to the floor in front of the bed.
“I… I’ll be back.”
MePhone wouldn’t be surprised if those were just empty words, too.

How could he feel so numb, yet so overwhelmed at the same time. He just didn’t know what to do. He had probably just lost his brother for a second time, after everything he had been through to get him back. After every year spent without him, really, what had any of it been for if it was just going to result in this. MePhone could feel himself trembling again. He knew he was going to cry if he didn’t calm down, but he wasn’t going to let himself do that. He quietly shifted positions on the bed, laying himself down, facing away from OJ’s side, as he moved a hand to his power button. He knew OJ would be so disappointed, but… He couldn’t do this anymore tonight. He was just so tired of losing people.

MePhone just wanted his brother back. That was the thought he turned himself off to, falling into a thoughtless, restless sleep.

.
.
.

It was a long, annoying process, just like she had thought it was going to be. Eventually though, she figured it out. She wanted to get this over with. If they weren’t coming tonight-- and with the moon already being up, it was unlikely, she had to make sure she was out of here by morning. Thankfully though, the code didn’t take too long to transfer, and well, that just left with turning him back on, to make sure it worked. She sighed, sitting him up against the wall of the room now, hesitantly pressing his power button. A start-up sound, though not the Meeple one, played, as his screen flickered on.
“... Hello?” Taco asked, leaning back from him a bit, as he examined his hands.
“What is my mission?” Is all he asked, his voice almost monotone, except for the slightest hint of rage.
“Your mission is to destroy MePhone4.” Taco watched as he got to his feet, clenching his fists as he looked down at her.
“I will destroy the traitor. Where is he.” It wasn’t a question, more of a demand.
“I… I can take you to the island he’s hiding in. Just come with me.” Taco shook off her nerves, beginning to lead him out of the room. There was no going back now.

Chapter Text

It was cold. Too cold for 4S’s liking. He wasn’t fond of the weather, and he certainly wasn’t fond of the short object who led him to a ship, outside his… Creator’s office. His home. But if this was a work acquaintance, it would be in his best interest to follow. He had a mission to get to, anyways. The moon was high above, and full, shining down a light that cast shadows on the sea below the cloud that spanned on for a while, before casting onto an island somewhat in the distance. 4S took just a brief second to glance over, before stepping onto the ship. It was a bit odd, the ship having three seats, but he didn’t question it, as the short object-- a Taco? He assumed that’s what she was, at least-- took the captain's seat, flicking a few levers, as the ship whirred to life. It was loud, and there was a constant hum of the engine. This didn’t look like any of the ships he had seen come out of Meeple before. He wondered if this belonged to Taco. As the ship whirred, and lifted off, 4S examined his hands, and felt his screen. He didn’t know why, but half of it felt… well, there was no other better descriptive word than static-y, he supposed. It was unpleasant, and he figured he’d just have to ask Cobs to take a look at him once he returned from this mission… That was another odd thing, really. How he hadn’t seen Cobs once this evening, even if a part of him was relieved at this, it still felt suspicious. He shook off the thoughts, though. He had something else to focus on, as the ship approached the island, Taco landed the ship on the outskirts of a forest, on one of the far sides, near a steep incline, and cliff.

4S spoke first, with a question;
“He’s on this island?”
“Yes. He is. There’s a hotel here, and that’s where he’s… hiding out.” There was just a bit of hesitance in her words, as if she were thinking how to phrase it right before actually getting it out. There was a silence, for just a moment, before Taco continued speaking; “We’re doing this tomorrow, okay?”
“Why are we waiting.” His tone was laced in irritation.
“Everyone at the hotel is there. Most problem objects that would get in our way should be out tomorrow morning, leaving MePhone4 wide open for this task. Understood?” Taco was sure demanding a lot from him.
“It’s late. I don’t understand why we don’t go now, when everyone’s asleep.”
“Orders from the top.” Taco narrowed her eyes. 4S couldn’t argue with that. At least now, he had time to think about it, and focus his rage. He was still so angry at MePhone. He had been stuck in Meeple, alone for about a year, if he remembered correctly, and tomorrow morning was when he was finally going to be free of all this. He’d terminate MePhone4, and he’d be able to rest from all the training. He thought about the idea of finally getting sleep, this being a comfort. A driving force. He was so tired, from all of what he was put through in Meeple, and once he got his rage out, and did his task, he’d be okay. He took a deep breath. He’d definitely be ready for this. He didn’t care that he once saw the other phone as his brother, because all he was now, was a traitor. All he was, was a coward, who left him up there to rot, spoil, and endure all of the abuse from Cobs. He deserved what was coming to him. The two sat in the ship, in mostly silence for a long while, Taco immediately turning it off for discretion while they waited away the night. She almost jolted, when 4S spoke;
“Where is my weapon?”
“Huh?” Taco turned in her seat to look at him.
“My weapon. How am I supposed to terminate him without it?”
“Ah, yes, well…” Taco turned back around in her seat, letting out a heavy sigh, before getting up, stepping over to the phone, almost nervously. She retracted her hand into her shell, before pulling out… a very pink gun. 4S frowned at this. It looked… tacky. Not that there was a problem with the color pink, but… It just didn’t feel like it captured his intimidating stature.
“Why does it look like this. That doesn’t look like a Meeple designed weapon.”
“It isn’t, but it still works just as well, if not better. It has a stun, and lethal option, too. I’m sure those guns up there don’t. So just deal with it, please?” Taco huffed out, annoyed, as 4S carefully took the gun in his hands now.
Something about this felt horribly wrong, but he pushed aside the feeling, placing the gun to rest in his lap. He’d have time to unpack that later.

…

OJ sighed, resigning back to his room after a long talk with Knife about what was happening, and what they were going to do about it. Knife, him, and TestTube were going to go back up there. TestTube was involved, because she would recognize, and know exactly where it happened, and if they were gone, she’d be able to pick up clues, and since she had been there most recently, she’d be able to tell if anything was out of place. He didn’t bother flicking on the light, planning on just checking on MePhone one more time, before going to bed himself, as he slipped his cork on. He squinted a bit into the dark, realizing MePhone already seemed to be asleep. He’d comfort him in the morning, but for now, he slipped into bed, wrapping his arms around MePhone, pulling him in close. He didn’t seem to react at all, but OJ was just too tired to notice.

.
.
.

OJ yawned, flopping onto his back after resting on his side all night. He stared up at the ceiling for just a moment, processing the events of last night, and realizing yeah, that really happened. He let out a soft sigh, seeing MePhone hasn't moved an inch, and still appeared to be asleep. OJ didn’t want to wake him up, but he had to. He knew if MePhone woke up, and OJ wasn’t there, with no knowledge of where he could’ve gone, well, that was sure to leave him in a worse state. That was the last thing any of them needed. He carefully sat up in the bed, moving MePhone a bit to where he was laying on his back, his arms flopping to his sides almost lifelessly. This started to worry OJ-- the complete lack of reaction, and the fact he hadn’t moved himself once. It was almost as if…
“MePhone?” He called out, lightly shaking the phone. Still no response. OJ frowned, almost not wanting to check, but he did, moving his hand to press down on his power button lightly, just to stir him out of sleep mode, but OJ’s fears just seemed to be confirmed. MePhone had shut himself off completely, and he could only assume it was last night when OJ wasn’t in the room with him. OJ stifled an upset sigh, before sliding off the bed. He’d turn him back on soon, he just… Needed to make sure of something, first. Once he stepped out into the hallway, heading into the lobby, he saw how Knife was there on the couch, waiting with TestTube. He must’ve gone and found her. Fan was also here, sitting on the arm of the couch, next to TestTube. The two were inseparable at the moment.
OJ cleared his throat, as the other three looked at him.
“Um, is MePad here yet?”
“No.” Knife kept his arms crossed, and his gaze locked onto the floor in front of the couch, a glint of genuine sadness in his eyes over something.
OJ sighed.
“I um… Fan, I need a big favor,”
“... Yeah?” Fan answered, looking up with clear hesitation.
“MePhone’s unstable, and he’s shut himself off again, and I need you to keep him company while we’re gone, to make sure he doesn’t do it again, okay?”
“O- okay,” Fan would nod, clearly nervous about everything going on. He hopped off the couch, still hesitating a bit, as OJ turned, walking back towards his and the phone’s shared room. He still laid there, almost pitifully, the blanket messily splayed across the bed below him, as it did when OJ turned him onto his back earlier. He sighed, moving back to the bed, pressing down on the power button. The Meeple start-up noise rang bitter through all of their ears, as MePhone’s screen flickered on, the loading screen taking a bit of time, before his face was visible again, against the blue it always had been. His expression was dull, and numb, as he realized he was active again. He still didn’t move, not even glancing at either of the other two in the room. He opened his mouth to speak, but when nothing came out, other than a soft gasp, he shut his mouth, giving up on that. OJ carefully moved his hands to the phone’s sides, sitting him up.

MePhone let this happen, still unmoving. He didn’t have the energy for anything. Waking up after shutting down always did this, though never usually to this extreme. He knew exactly why he was feeling like this though, not having any gaps in his memory like last time he shut himself off. OJ said something to him, and MePhone didn’t hear, or understand it, really, but he’d nod slightly, just to be safe, and with that, OJ got up, walking over to his side of the bed, carefully pulling him up. He trudged along, almost weakly as the two of them-- and Fan, who was there too, for some reason, made it to the lobby, sitting MePhone down on the couch. He leaned back into the slight comfort the seat gave, just glad to not be moving on such low energy.
He could barely register a conversation going on as he shut his eyes, soaking in the low noises of speaking, not processing the words at all. Everything was so disconnected right now. He just wanted to go back to sleep. He moved a hand back up to his power button, stifling a sigh, as someone-- he didn’t open his eyes to check, carefully grabbed his arm, pulling it back down to rest on his lap. He’d have to try again later. For now, though, actually getting some rest sounded nice, as he melted away back into sleep.

…

Knife sighed, letting go of the phone’s arm, looking back up to OJ, who was discussing the plan. Knife knew Fan wasn’t good at comforting others, or really good at being assertive-- and with him being nervous himself, he knew it wouldn’t be a great idea to leave him with MePhone.
“I’m going to stay here with MePhone.” Knife cut through OJ’s current sentence, all eyes suddenly being on him as he glanced down.
“Er-- listen, as much as I want to help, I think it would be best if I stayed here with him… That, and if Taco comes here and tries anything, I’ll be here to absolutely kick her ass.”
OJ’s mouth formed a very thin line as he thought about it, letting out a sigh of his own.
“Fine, then it’s me, and TestTube going up there. Great.”
“Thanks for the enthusiasm.” TestTube frowned, the guilt of this all eating her alive.
“You’re the reason we’re--”
“Quit it. Don’t argue about this. We just need to get this over with, and figure out our shit later, okay?” Knife couldn’t help the irritation in his voice, as he moved a hand to rub the space between his eyes, growing frustrated.
“I’m going to bring MePhone up to my room so people don’t come down here and gawk at him, and you guys are going to go get 4S back. That’s it. Got it?”
“Yeah, We got it.” OJ shuffled anxiously in place, before letting out a heavy sigh. “Right. MePad should hopefully be here soon, go ahead and take MePhone up to your room, and we’ll be back as soon as this is all figured out, and fixed. Okay?”
“Yeah.” Knife gave a curt nod, getting up from the couch. He carefully hoisted MePhone up, carrying him like he would a large tray or something, as he moved to head upstairs, a quiet conversation starting back up in the lobby as he left earshot. Knife huffed, heading up several flights of stairs, to the room he was sharing with 4S. As much as it would be nice to see Pickle, he wasn’t going to put MePhone in that room. Nobody else here needed to worry about what was going on. Knife tossed the phone down on one of the beds in the room, before moving to flick on the light, taking a seat on the other bed, letting him rest for now. This was going to be a long day, wasn’t it.

…

It didn’t take much longer for MePad to arrive, having only been texted ‘urgent situation. Please come to the hotel.’ by MePhone last night, and not actually seeing it until he left sleep mode this morning, having already been asleep the night prior. But he was here now, hoping whatever it was, he wouldn’t be too late. He was let in immediately, and as he stood next to the couch, OJ explained the situation.
“... So you need me to bring you up to Meeple again?” MePad was immediately nervous.
“Yes. um, we know it’s not… a great situation, but we need to get 4S back, and we need to stop Taco from doing… Whatever the hell she’s trying to do.” OJ sighed.
“... Is she working with Cobs, again?” All eyes were immediately on him, as if he had cracked the code. “It’s… Only logical, seeing how she seemed to be doing just fine at the hotel, and I don’t understand why she’d give it all up for no reason.”
“How would he be operating something like this from prison? Couldn’t we just contact the authorities?”
“We don’t have any proof. We’ll have to find Taco first.” TestTube piped in.
“Right. Yeah. Well, whatever this is, I don’t give a shit what her reasoning is, but she’s crossed a line. I’m done letting her get away with stuff like this. She’s had her chances.” OJ let out a frustrated sigh. There was no way he was letting her back into the hotel after this.
“How is MePhone taking this?” MePad asked, with just a bit of hesitance.
“Knife is keeping an eye on him, um… He’s not doing well. He’s scared he’s going to lose 4S again-- and we’re going to make sure he doesn’t.”
“Right. We should really be going then.” TestTube stood up, ready to go. “Though if Taco is still up there, and hostile, we may need a way to defend ourselves. MePad, could we make a stop by my lab first?”
“Yes, of course.”
“Fan, make sure nobody at the hotel worries or gets too nosy, got it?”
“Uh, yeah! Okay,” He said, still nervous, not having said much at all.

So the group departed, leaving Fan alone in the lobby. There was so much to be done.

.
.
.

By the time they made it up to Meeple, the cloud itself had drifted closer to the island, and the first thing TestTube was able to point out was how the ship was no longer there. Meaning she was gone, which… was not good, but they still needed to check the building to figure out what she had done after TestTube got taken out. So TestTube headed straight up the stairs, where she remembers the incident happening, and sure enough, the littered glass was still there, along with the bag, her old liquid staining the floor below. TestTube let out a short sigh as she picked up the bag, slinging it back over her shoulder.
“Let’s check the top floor.”
OJ would nod, turning to head up even more stairs, MePad following close behind. The top floor was… Messy, to say the least, but TestTube assured that the flipped over desk, and broken chair had been 4S’s doing before anything happened. Though, there was something in the room that was odd. A small laptop on the floor, with a harddrive sticking out of it. TestTube immediately gravitated towards that, picking up the laptop, and its charger, tucking it under her arm. “This building doesn’t feel safe. If we don’t find him here, I’ll go back to my lab afterwards and figure out what this computer, and harddrive are.”
“Okay. I think we should split up, cover more ground. The ship might be gone, meaning I’m sure Taco’s made a run for it, but that doesn’t mean 4S is gone, too. It’s safer to search.”
“Right.” TestTube gave a nod, and the three of them began searching the building, to unsurprisingly find nothing, None of them able to get past the locked door that 4S had been trying to open the night prior.
There was no trace of him, or Taco, meaning they must have left together, or Taco must’ve taken him.
“Well, I have to figure they’re somewhere on the island. The ship didn’t have nearly enough fuel to get it anywhere further, meaning if they tried to-- and I know Taco would be smart enough not to-- they’d be in danger. So we’re lucky enough for that.” TestTube huffed as the three of them stepped out of the building, out into the cold, morning air. OJ shuttered a bit, honestly wishing he had grabbed a scarf or something, but he hadn’t been thinking about it. Oh well.
“Take us back down to the island then?” TestTube glanced at MePad, him giving a nod, before doing as asked, the three of them now back outside TestTube’s lab entrance. They had a lot of ground to cover.
“What’s the most discreet area of the island? Perhaps it would be smarter to check those areas first. I can teleport us around the island, to make things faster.”
“That would be wonderful. I’d suspect checking the outskirts of the forests first, and then the cave, if not there.”
“Sounds like a plan. Let’s get this search over with.”

…

4S left the ship as soon as the sun rose, Taco leaving as well, knowing it wasn’t safe to stay there, lest she get caught immediately. The two split up in the woods-- or rather, Taco discretely slipped away, leaving 4S to his own mission, while she needed to hide. She couldn’t risk getting caught for this, knowing she was already guilty enough as she sprinted through the woods, running to a terribly familiar spot. She slowed to a halt on noticing it-- almost faceplanting, but she merely stumbled, catching herself before she did. She stopped to breathe, looking at the unfortunately familiar tree stump. She had come a long way since then, and of course this was where she found herself again. She internally cursed at herself, angry that she let herself get played this easily, but it was too late to go back now. It was too late the moment she took the phone call, not telling anyone else about it. She was sure she could have dealt with the robot, or she could’ve asked someone else to help, but she just never thought about that possibility. Of course she didn’t.
Everything she ever did just happened to course back to her being the villain, didn’t it.

Sighing, and needing a break from running to catch her breath, she sat down on the stump. She was sure whatever the outcome of today was, it’d be over soon. She figured once she collected herself, she’d head to the docks, and take a boat onto the mainland, never to be seen by the objects here again. She knew leaving without a word-- if OJ and the others didn’t let the entire hotel know what she had done-- would hurt, especially to Microphone, and Soap, but the two of them had each other. She didn’t need to drag anyone else down anymore. She didn’t want to live a life of just constantly doing that, and nothing else to the people around her. She was the problem here, and if she left, they wouldn’t have to worry anymore. She was done making other people feel bad for the shitty things she did.

.
.
.

It was a long trek to the docks from where she landed the boat, and it was certainly frustrating slinking through the outskirts of the island, when it would’ve been faster to cut through or something, but she couldn’t risk it. She couldn’t risk anything. She was so close now, stepping out of the woods, now in eye-sight of the dock. She cautiously made her way over, though… Not cautiously enough it seemed, as she was suddenly shoved to the ground. She quickly spun around, ready to pull her stun device out of her shell, but the other object-- OJ, acted faster, restraining her arms. She struggled, and shouted, but OJ kept her pinned down, a furious expression on his face. TestTube was there too, standing to the side, with her own angered expression at her. Shit.
“What the hell did you do?” OJ shouted at her.
“I- I didn’t have a choice!” She reasoned, realizing struggling wasn’t going to work.
“Oh bullshit! What did you do to him? Where is he?”
“I- It’s-- It’s too late now.” She glanced away, bitter.
“What does that mean?” OJ narrowed his eyes. TestTube brought the laptop she had grabbed out now, opening it to check here and now what the harddrive was, since Taco didn’t want to be direct. Taco didn’t say anything else, letting TestTube figure out what it meant herself, with a gasp. She dropped the laptop, her anger turning to horror.
“Wh- what?”
“He-- MePhone’s in danger!” Was all she managed to get out.
And upon hearing this, OJ’s grip on Taco’s wrists lightened as he processed what he was hearing, and Taco took this chance to kick him, causing him to let go, and stumble back as she created her own distance. Despite MePad having been with the two earlier, he was still off searching other areas of the island.
“We need to go make sure he’s okay NOW.” TestTube didn’t even wait, discarding the issue of Taco being right here, as she sprinted off towards the hotel. OJ though, stayed.
“What did you do. Answer me NOW.” He stepped forward, clenching his fists.
“I had to. He threatened me, I-- I can explain later.” Taco dropped her angered, evil facade, leaving a dejected look on her face now. OJ’s posture softened a bit too, at this.
“You better not go anywhere. I’ll be back to talk to you later. If you run, you’re never going to be welcomed here again.”
“Fine.” Taco just sat down where she stood, and as OJ ran towards the hotel, she just placed her head in her hands, sighing. This was her own fault, and despite still wanting to run away, she knew she’d be an even bigger coward if she did, and she knew whatever was coming to her once this was all over, she deserved it.

…

MePhone woke up, still feeling numb as ever, his screen flickering on, and him realizing he was in a hotel room now, rather than the couch, but it wasn’t his and OJ’s room. Once he glanced over to Knife, he realized this was probably Knife and 4S’s room. Great. He took a deep breath, in and out, just trying to feel something, but… There was nothing to feel, other than the numb grief that overwhelmed his systems. He glanced over at Knife, who’s full attention was on the phone-- he supposed he’d get up and stop him if he tried to shut himself down. So he didn’t even bother, just sitting himself up, not saying anything, as he held his hands close to himself, curling up a bit. He didn’t know what to do. His reaction to losing 4S the first time wasn’t nearly as intense as this was-- it was barely a reaction at all, really, but this was different. He remembered everything now, and despite getting him back, it was like the world was tearing everything good away from him all over again. Like the world didn’t want him to be happy, or okay, despite already having to endure so much already.

“Hey,” Knife’s voice called out, blurring away MePhone’s unpleasant thoughts for just a moment, as he glanced over at the blade.
“Okay, good. You can actually hear me, uh… Listen, OJ and TestTube are out there right now trying to find 4S, okay?”
“... Okay.” His voice was uncharacteristically dull. Honestly, how he was acting was almost completely unseen of him, from Knife’s perspective at least, never having seen the ex-host act this… broken. It kinda hurt, really. And Knife was definitely struggling with all this too. Once OJ had told him what was up last night, he realized this was what 4S was talking about when asking for advice on not being so nervous. How Knife completely misread the topic, and gave probably the worst advice possible for the specific thing. It was too late to take any of it back now.
“What if he… What if he’s gone,” MePhone’s voice was timid, and quiet, laced with a heavy weight of sadness.
“Listen. Things might not be okay. They might not find him, and he might just be gone, but I’m not going to sit here and lie to you, and be like; ‘oh yeah he’s fine, and everythings going to go back to normal’ because well, that’s not always how the world works. As harsh as this is, he could be gone, yeah, and I… That’s going to be really fucking hard, but you have so many objects here willing to help you deal with this again.” Knife shifted in his bed a bit, turning away as he wiped the tears he felt forming on his face, before glancing over to MePhone, who was nothing but shocked by what he had said, showing the most emotion he had shown since last night, and as harsh as this was, it was what he needed to hear, as he let out another sob, Knife getting up to sit next to the phone, patting him on the back, urging him to let it all out. This was hard, and even if it didn’t seem like it was going to be okay, and maybe it just wouldn't be, but he had a support system. Maybe that was enough, just for now. He knew he could at least trust OJ and TestTube enough to figure this all out.

…

It was around noon, when 4S stood outside of the hotel, but not in front of it. He was standing around the back at the moment, not wanting to risk being spotted. MePhone was somewhere in this hotel, and 4S wasn’t going to leave, until he retrieved the traitor, and got rid of him. He gripped the gun in his hands, tightening his hold with determination, and rage. He was ready to get this over with now.

Chapter Text

The sound of glass shattering is what alerted Paper, who had come down to the lobby after waking up to make sure all was going to be okay in the hotel today, while OJ was going off on another… ‘urgent’ thing, that he didn’t have time to explain. He hesitantly made his way towards the sound, wondering if someone was already up, causing trouble. He hoped not. He knew that was the last thing OJ wanted to return to the hotel to, so he’d just have to fix whatever this was before…
Paper’s thoughts trailed off, growing increasingly on edge as he looked down the hallway, realizing where the sound had come from. OJ’s office. Paper cautiously stepped down the hall, closer, and closer to the door, and the moment his hand reached the handle, the door slammed open, and Paper let out a squeak as he was shoved to the ground.
“Wh- what the hell!?” He let out, looking up at 4S, who was staring down at him. He definitely looked… A lot scarier than Paper remembered, an immediate nervousness filling him as he noticed his screen was glitching a bit. Something was very wrong, but Paper wasn’t given time to process this as 4S leaned down, grabbing the top of Paper’s head, and pulling him up to eye-level. He struggled in the phone’s grasp, but he wasn’t strong enough… Which, despite being made out of literal paper, he was unusually strong most times, but it seemed 4S was stronger at this moment.
“Where is he. Respond honestly, and you won’t be harmed.” 4S glared, his terrifying, intimidating expression not wavering a bit.
“Wh- who!?” He winced, as 4S’s grip tightened, crinkling him a bit.
“The traitor. The blue one.”
“He- I don’t-- I don’t know!” He squeaked out, lying. His life was probably being threatened, and he was lying. He just hoped the device couldn’t tell. Paper shut his eyes tightly. It must’ve been the fear, or something, but everything was starting to feel like it was blurring together for Paper. He really didn’t want to die over protecting MePhone of all objects, even if he knew he could be revived, it was always so scary.

4S watched as the struggling became more prevalent again, Paper’s expression changing to something much closer to frustration and anger as he grasped at the arm holding him. 4S couldn’t determine if this object was lying or not, but he didn’t feel like hurting bystanders today, as much as the idea usually seemed fun, so he turned, letting go of the object, who took a moment to recover, before glaring up at him as if he were going to retaliate, but that didn’t happen. 4S used his foot to keep distance, before pushing back, effectively kicking the sheet into the office, before slamming the door on him, turning the lock on the door. It seemed terribly ineffective for a lock to be on the outside of the door, but it was convenient, so he wouldn’t question it. He still had his target to find.

…

“Are you feeling better? Or uh, feeling anything at all?”
“... Yeah,” MePhone sighed out, his crying having finally died down a few moments prior. It still felt rough, but at least it was something other than the numbness.
“Uh… Do you need anything?” Knife shrugged.
“I um, I’ll be fine for now, I think… Thanks,” MePhone replied, almost timid, as he let his hands idle in his lap, his gaze on the hotel room floor, between the two beds.
“They should be back soon, I’m sure it wouldn’t take them too long to check everything out.”
“Yeah, um… Thanks, for staying with me, by the way. I… um, I know this is probably rough for you, too.”
“Uh-- yeah, um… He w-- he’s a friend. Yeah.” He watched MePhone halfheartedly roll his eyes at that.
“What?” Knife snapped, though with no actual anger in his tone.
“Yeah, I sure wonder,” he could swear he saw the faintest hint of a smile on MePhone’s face. He was just glad to see the phone making jokes at a time like this. But Knife refused to say anything about how he felt about 4S, because this clearly wasn’t the time.
“You wanna go do something while we wait? The lobby’s probably pretty empty today considering how downer the ending of the party was last night.”
“Uh… We could go take a walk, I could probably use the fresh air, it’s kinda stuffy in here.”
“Yeah, okay. It’s cold out today, though.”
“Oh, I’ll be fine.” MePhone waved a dismissive hand, blinking a few times as he stood, still feeling just a bit weaker than usual. Surely that wouldn’t be too big of a problem though, they were probably just going to end up sitting outside the hotel and wait for the others to return anyways. Knife said it probably wouldn’t be long, so MePhone chose to believe that. So the two got up, ready to head out for a bit. Knife wouldn’t admit it, but the idea of getting some fresh air was sounding good to him, too. The lobby was empty as the two made it down, but the first floor was not quiet. The two were both made alert by a door down the hallway slamming shut. When the both of them moved, almost cautiously, to look,
MePhone let out a gasp.
“You- You’re alright!!” MePhone ignored the low energy he had today, rushing down the hall to hug his brother, who turned just in time, the two of them staggering back against the door with a soft thud. MePhone had just cried, and honestly, with the relief he was feeling, he felt like he might again-- but… The relief didn’t last, as MePhone was roughly shoved back, and away from 4S, who sneered down at him as he stumbled back, the only thing keeping him from falling back completely being Knife, who also quickly made his way into the hall. Now that MePhone was getting a good look at him, well, 4S frankly looked scary. Part of his screen seemed to be glitched out-- possibly from the stun device TestTube had mentioned, and he looked at MePhone with nothing but disgust and rage. MePhone could feel his stomach drop at this, his relief shifting into something more unsure, something more scared. Knife helped him back up to a stable position, as the three stood there, 4S almost silently daring the others to make their move.
“4S…?”
“My mission is to terminate you. Give up now, and don’t make this hard for either of us. Understood?” 4S kept his sneer, slowly pulling a weapon-- what Knife recognized as Taco’s gun-- out, taking aim. MePhone froze up almost immediately, a horrifying feeling of deja-vu washing over him as he tensed up completely. His unsure, scared emotions shifted into pure terror, as it dawned on him, 4S was here to kill him. As 4S aimed the gun, Knife acted quickly, grabbing MePhone’s arm, and yanking him out of the hallway-- making a run for the door. 4S reacted quickly, firing off a shot, it barely missing as Knife kicked the front door open, dragging MePhone along behind him. Shit, this was bad. This was really bad. 4S made chase, not letting either of them leave his sight. This was incredibly annoying to him. He was so tired of this. Or maybe just tired in general, but either way, it was still annoying. Just a bit away from the hotel, approaching the forest, Knife came to a stop, MePhone stumbling ahead of him as he let go of the phone’s arm, as Knife turned to face 4S.
“Run, MePhone. Now.” Knife glanced back at MePhone briefly, him just giving a scared nod, running on nothing but adrenaline in the moment as he bolted.
“What is your problem? You come back here and think ‘oh yeah, let’s kill your brother’?”
“My problem? My problem is HIM. He left me up in that hellscape for so long, just because he got a little scared, and now, he just seems even more pathetic-- what, running away from the fate he deserves!? That traitor doesn’t deserve anything other than being taken out!” 4S sneered, taking an aggressive step towards the Knife. If he wanted a fight, and if he was going to be the only thing standing between him, and completing the mission, well, he wasn’t going to let this stupid utensil stop him. He subtly thumbed over the gun's setting, moving it from lethal, to stun.
“You’re talking like you haven’t been here for the past several months-- like you didn’t literally have a change of heart the first time you died?! What is wrong with you?” Knife still didn’t get it.
“You don’t even know me! I’ve been stuck up on that cloud my entire life, and you are some silly stranger trying to manipulate me. Get out of my way, or I will harm you.”
“I’m not going to let you do that.” Knife narrowed his eyes.
“So be it.” 4S aimed, and fired, Knife ducking out of the way just in time, as he full on sprinted at the phone, tackling him to the ground. The gun flew out of his hands at this, landing just a bit away from both of them.
“You’re clearly not thinking straight.” Knife struggled to keep him down, 4S kicking him off, and scrambling up to a sitting position as he aimed for the gun, Knife recovering quickly enough to kick it away. 4S got to his feet again, running for the weapon, but the other grabbed his leg, yanking down.
“Sorry for being rough, but--” Knife shoved 4S down, face-first into the grass, pinning him down better as he was knelt down on his back, a strong grip on his struggling arms. “But you need to calm down. MePhone hasn’t done anything wrong.”
4S let out a frustrated growl, before using all his strength to flip over-- he wasn’t going to let some stranger take him down this easily, as he finally grabbed the gun, firing. Knife seized up at the shock from the stun, making a pained grunt, before falling face-first into the grass. 4S huffed, feeling a strange ping of guilt at this, but it had to be done. He wasn’t letting anyone else get in his way, as he got to his feet, moving the gun setting back to lethal, before heading into the woods. He knew it wouldn’t be hard to find him again. If he remembered anything about MePhone from the time both of them had been in Meeple, he knew he was a coward. And a coward often chooses to hide, rather than run.

…

Making it back to the hotel, OJ and TestTube noticed an immediate lack of Knife, or MePhone-- and the fact they found an incredibly pissed off Paper locked in the office while checking the first floor.
“I swear I’m going to kill that phone.” His tone, and stature the moment the door opened, confirmed to OJ at least, that EP was fronting. “What happened? If you’re willing to tell?”
“That stupid… The red one, he broke in, and threw me in here. I… don’t know where he is now, but If I did, I'd…” Paper glanced up at OJ, who was giving a worried look. Paper glanced away, as if it were a silent apology, not verbally saying anything.
“He’s been here, meaning I’m assuming MePhone and Knife ran into him too, and made a run for it, since they weren’t up in any of the rooms they would’ve been. We need to go find them, not. Paper, if MePad returns to the hotel, tell him to teleport around again to help locate Knife, or MePhone, and if he sees 4S, to not go after him.” TestTube took charge, giving out orders, before turning to leave, OJ turning too.
“Fine.” He crossed his arms, heading out to sit in the lobby, his mood for the day already ruined at the altercation from earlier.

So OJ and TestTube ran out, honestly not taking long to spot a glint of shining gray reflecting off the sun, running towards it to see it was definitely Knife, who was… Unconscious.
“Great. Wake him up.” TestTube huffed, looking at OJ. Both of them stood over him. OJ let out an annoyed sigh, kneeling down to shake him awake, and with a lot of effort, his eyes blinked open, and he let out a groan.
“What happened?” TestTube wasted no time, not even caring if he were still disoriented. This was still dire, and they didn’t have time to be messing around.
“I-- ughhh… Stun device.” Was all Knife mustered out, sitting up as he put a hand to his head, wincing. “Gods I’m gonna feel horrible later… um… Wh-- shit, he… Gods dammit…” Knife’s hand turned into a fist, as he punched the grass, immediately frustrated.
“He- He’s going after MePhone. He wants him dead, I… I don’t understand why, but he’s in danger, we need to find him now.” Knife took no more time to recover, shaking off whatever physical funk he was feeling. This was more important. He could rest later. OJ helped him to his feet. TestTube held up a harddrive that she must have found at meeple, gesturing to it as she looked at Knife, explaining; “This is a system override. It did something to him. That’s why he’s acting like this, and we’re going to have to either find a way to snap him out of this, or shut him down, and get him to my lab.
“I told MePhone to run, and I’m pretty sure he headed into the forest, and I stalled for enough time, so hopefully he made a good distance…”
“Unless he chose to hide instead.” TestTube almost didn’t want to suggest that possibility, really, but… As everyone thought about it, they all came to that same realization, that he definitely would’ve hidden, instead of trying to run all the way.
“Shit, we need to find him before 4S does.” So the three of them departed into the forest.

This was a game of hide and seek that 4S intended to win. He slinked through the trees, remaining light on his feet to make as little sound as possible, listening for the slightest hint of anything remotely out of the ordinary. Eventually, his audio sensors picked up a light, muffled sound. He was getting closer. It was going to be so nice, finally getting this over with, and going home. Nothing was going to stop him now.

.
.
.

MePhone stood behind a large tree, his hands clamped over his mouth as he stifled his heavy breathing, and sobs. His brother was back, and just wanted him dead. 4S was here, and nothing that had happened in the past few months even mattered anymore. MePhone couldn’t help the thoughts that sunk into his mind, wondering if all of it had just been an act-- if this had been the plan all along, just to make it hurt the most-- but… No, he couldn’t think like that, he just couldn’t, quickly shaking it off with logic. Something had to be wrong with him. This couldn’t be an act-- right? Otherwise why would he have sacrificed himself? All of his thoughts came to an immediate pause, being replaced by sudden terror, as a twig snapped. A twig snap, that sounded like it was merely feet away. He opened his eyes-- not remembering when he had shut them, glancing around. He was still alone. It was quiet again. He glanced to his left, first. Nothing. He glanced to his right-- and was met with a punch, sending him staggering back into a tree with a panicked noise. Despite the durable screen TestTube had made him, he could’ve sworn he felt a crack on impact. He looked over in fear at 4S who was standing there, breathing heavy breaths, gun in hand.
“Please,” MePhone begged, trembling against a tree. He couldn’t move, he didn’t dare try to, either, knowing it would end badly.
“Please, what. Are you going to beg for your life? After everything you leaving put me through?”
“Wh…”
“Shut up. You’ve been gone for over a year now, leaving me up there with HIM, and I’m never forgiving you for this. What I’m about to do is nobody’s fault, but your own. You deserve this, off living a happy life, not even giving a second thought to me? Making your own life while you left me to rot?!” 4S raised his voice, tensing up in his rage.
“I- I don’t understand,” MePhone was on the verge of tears again, his vision after being punched just a bit blurrier than it should be.
“Gods, of course you don’t. You don’t understand ANYTHING, do you!? No wonder Cobs wanted you scrapped!” He was full on yelling, a complete contrast to MePhone’s quiet, terrified tone, which had barely been louder than a whisper. He was so scared, so confused. His brother was mentioning nothing but… But what happened back at Meeple. He… Doesn’t remember any of it. Oh Gods.
“I- Wait, please, listen, 4S, you don’t--”
“SHUT UP ALREADY!”
“NO! You need to listen! Y- Meeple isn’t an issue anymore! Please, Co-- Our creator, he’s-- He’s gone, he’s not in control anymore, you have to believe me,” MePhone begged, desperate to knock any bit of sense into his brother, hoping it would work. It had to work, or he was going to die. 4S stood there, shaking in his rage. This was all a bunch of bullshit to him. Lies to sway him away from death. Of course MePhone was being a coward about this. He wasn’t going to listen anymore. He stepped forward, MePhone flinching, and moving his hands to protect his face-- but that barely did anything to protect him as 4S grabbed one of his arms tightly, slamming him back into the tree he was up against. MePhone let out a pained noise at this, kicking his legs a bit as 4S raised him up a bit, the glitching on his screen flickering a bit, making him look all the more intimidating. This was so terrifying. MePhone couldn’t stop it anymore, letting out a sob. He wasn’t getting it.
“All you ever do is lie, and run, and make everyone else hurt in your place.” 4S sneered. “I was going to just get this over with, but Gods, honestly you don’t even deserve the mercy.” 4S proceeded to slam him down against the ground, MePhone hearing another crack as he let out a pained yelp through his sobs. 4S knelt down, keeping MePhone pinned to the ground beneath his foot.
“You are worthless, old technology. I’m going to take great pride in ripping you apart.” 4S stood up straight, lifting his foot, ready to stomp back down, as MePhone’s hands fell hopelessly to his sides. He… Couldn’t do anything to stop this. He knew this was just… going to happen now, and He was going to die. He just hoped once the others found him, and fixed whatever was wrong with 4S, he wouldn’t feel so bad about what happened. MePhone let his eyes close, embracing whatever was about to happen, ready to give up, muttering a simple;
“I’m sorry,” As his believed last words. Maybe if he died here, Cobs would finally leave everyone else alone.

4S hesitated at this. An apology of all things… Now? He could feel… Something twist inside him. He wondered if it was guilt, but that felt stupid. He shouldn’t feel guilty doing this. This was just another mind game, surely. He had him right where he wanted him, and once he shattered his screen, it’d be over. He brought his foot down, and he could hear a sickening crack fill the air, though he wasn’t given time to process the damage he had just caused, as he was tackled to the side, rather roughly, immediately struggling against the grasp of someone he couldn’t see, once again having his face slammed into the ground-- before he couldn’t see, or feel anything, really, as his entire world went dark. He was finally granted some rest, but at what cost.

Chapter Text

As Knife acted on action, tackling 4S, it didn’t take long for OJ and TestTube to reach the area too, both of them letting out a relieved sigh, as Knife managed to get him shut off, which left the concern of--

OJ felt his heart drop as he glanced down at the MePhone. The crack on his screen webbed throughout the entire span of it, a clear indent into the device itself where impact was made. He couldn’t help but let out a panicked noise, scrambling to the phone’s side, dropping to his knees to hoist him up to a sitting position. He was unmoving, not giving a single reaction as OJ shook him, calling out his name-- and… not turning on when OJ frantically pressed his power button. Not a single flicker, or sign of life, as both Knife and TestTube could do nothing but stare as OJ’s usual confident, calmattitude fell, nothing but sorrow being in its spot as he began to sob, holding MePhone’s broken, shattered body in his arms.

But they couldn’t stay in these woods forever. Knife hoisted up the unconscious 4S, letting out a heavy sigh, before making his own way out, to bring 4S to TestTube’s lab, giving OJ the time he needed to cry. Really, this was the most intense display of negative emotion either Knife, or TestTube had seen out of the cup. He was always so outwardly ‘okay’ and ‘fine’ at all times, even during the times he had off days, he managed. Never once had OJ cried this hard. It was… Rough, to say the least. This was why Knife took the initiative to get a move on, really. It was hard seeing his friend in this state. Eventually, TestTube stepped over, carefully taking MePhone out of OJ’s arms, laying him down flat on the grass to take a closer look at his damage. It was… really bad. Whatever 4S did to him before the others got there, well it definitely broke more than just his screen. It was rough seeing MePhone in this state, too. TestTube couldn’t stop the morbid thought that popped into her head, of wondering if this was even salvageable. She stifled saying any of this out loud, rather speaking out an apology, as OJ’s sobs slowly faded into quiet crying, as he held a hand over his mouth, staring down at MePhone with a look of honest terror.
“I’m so sorry. This-- None of this would have happened if I was just…” She paused, placing a hand over her mouth. This was hard. “If I had the sense to realize how dangerous going up there would be, I… None of this would’ve happened.” She watched as OJ glanced up to her, at least acknowledging she was speaking. “I… I’ll do everything I can to fix him, okay?” TestTube choked out, her own guilt, and sadness almost overwhelming her.
“... okay,” OJ could hear his voice waver. He didn’t know how he was going to be able to stand in front of everyone at the hotel and tell them what happened.
TestTube stood first, offering a hand to help him up, which he took, TestTube then leaning over to pick up MePhone as carefully as she could.
“We need to make sure the residents know not to get themselves killed while I try to fix him. Can you do that?”
OJ glanced away, this answering her question.
“Maybe ask Paper, I suppose you’ll need to fill him in on the situation, but… They all need to know, okay? I know it’s hard, but you can swing by the lab once that’s taken care of.”
“Yeah. I understand.” OJ wiped away the tears from his glass, taking a deep breath.
“I… I’ll do my best to fix him, okay? I still also have to figure out how to fix that override on 4S’s system, but MePhone will take priority.”
OJ would just give a small nod, before making his exit, giving TestTube the time to sigh, and head out of the wooded area herself, towards her lab. As OJ stepped out of the woods, that’s when he ran into MePad again, or at least spotted him, as he sat on a hill. He had to wonder if Knife had found him first, and filled him in. As OJ approached, the sadness in the tablet’s eyes told him everything. The two just shared a look of understanding, for just a moment, before OJ continued his faltering stride, towards the hotel, any confidence he had to actually be able to do this quickly fading. He’d go back out and talk to MePad later-- not to mention Taco still had to be dealt with.
Gods, this day just felt like it was never ending, huh. He glanced up at the sky, just outside the hotel, almost stalling. It was probably only just reaching afternoon now. He moved a hand to the door handle, still hesitating, stalling, if it meant he didn’t have to tell everyone that he had just lost his-- that they had just possibly lost their means of recovery. He shut his eyes tight, letting out a heavy sigh, before heading into the hotel, putting on his best hotel manager expression, hoping the overwhelming exhaustion at his crying earlier wouldn’t be too noticeable. This was going to be such a difficult afternoon.

…

4S’s screen flickered on, as he immediately gasped for air, his metal lungs feeling like they were absolutely burning, along with the uncomfortable, sore pain in all of his limbs. He couldn’t even sit up, just heaving as he soaked in the dark ambience of his room. His blanket was soft against his back, knowing he would’ve never put care into placing him properly in bed to rest after a day like this. It didn’t take a genius to guess he had completely overexerted himself again, and shut off sometime during training. Through the burning in his metal lungs, and the pain in his limbs, he stifled tears, knowing he’d walk in any moment, surely having been watching the camera in the room to see once he had woken up-- and 4S refused to let him catch him crying. He knew better than to cry in front of him. As he heaved in, and out, he shut his eyes, the feeling of needing to cry dying down a bit, along with the burning feeling. His arms and legs still hurt so much, though. Eventually, his breathing regulated, as he opened his eyes again, glancing over to the other, messy bed in the room. Still gone. Still so angry towards him. It had only been about two months since MePhone had run away.

4S moved to sit up, but immediately flopped back down, his limbs refusing to cooperate with him now. He let out a groan of frustration, placing his hands to his screen. Even that felt unpleasant, so he let his arms flop down onto the bed. It was comfortable. Maybe the only comfort he’d ever know, really. No, maybe that was a bit too morbid of a thought for him. He shook it off, his breath hitching as the door to the room slid open, the light from the hallway pouring in, and his creator's shadow casting through the middle of it all, before he flicked on the light switch in the room, stepping over to the bed 4S was in. Despite the horrible pain, 4S scrambled to sit up straight, to greet his creator;
“Hello sir.” He winced at how hoarse his voice seemed, but Cobs thankfully didn’t seem to point it out, as he pulled up one of the chairs in the room to sit beside the bed, not saying a single word. 4S wondered if this was going to be another lecture, or if he was going to get yelled at, and berated for being so weak, for not being enough, for--

“I’m sorry.” His voice cut through 4S’s frantic thoughts, and… He didn’t know how to process what he had just heard. He didn’t even know if he even heard Cobs correctly, but as the older man continued, it was confirmed.
“I… apologize for making things so rough on you.”
4S didn’t know how to respond. He opted to remain silent. It was always safer to remain silent, unless it was a direct question. 4S couldn’t make eye-contact, glancing away, and thankfully this was another thing Cobs didn’t point out.
“I just know that this is hard, and that you’re trying, but…”
And there it was. A but. His stomach churned at this, knowing what he was about to hear, made him feel sick. This happened every time Cobs apologized to him-- the very few times it happened, and every time, he fell for it, not realizing a true intent until it was too late. It was too late now.
“But you need to keep trying. You need to try harder, and as physically draining this all is, I need you to know this isn’t your fault, and it isn’t mine. It’s… Important that you’re in prime condition to go after the traitor. Please remind yourself it’s his fault.”
MePhone4’s fault.
“That once he’s taken out, your training will be able to be put to rest, and we can put you to much better use. Once he’s… Terminated, scrapped, we can all move on, and he won’t be able to hurt you anymore.”
4S remained silent.
“Things will be okay soon, I promise.” Cobs offered a smile that made 4S feel even worse. “You understand, right?”
“Yes, sir.” His tone was quiet.
“Good. See me in about an hour for further training. Don’t worry though, what I’ll have you do later won’t be as… Physically taxing, seeing as your systems apparently can’t handle this much.” Cobs turned away, his tone having a small hint of… Disappointment. He was casting an expectation.
“N- no sir, I can handle it,” 4S quickly spoke up. The last thing he wanted was for Cobs to be disappointed in him after all of this. He was trying so hard. He just wanted to be enough. He had to be enough. Cobs let out a small hum, glancing back at the device;
“Wonderful! I expect you out here soon.” He smiled again, before looking away completely, heading for the door.
“Yes, sir.”
The moment the door slid shut, 4S felt the arms holding him up buckle, as he flopped back onto the bed. This was when his tears from earlier surfaced again, 4S knowing he couldn’t stifle them this time, as he turned onto his side-- with great effort, putting his hands over his eyes.
He just wanted to rest. He was so tired.

.
.
.

4S jolted awake with a gasp, in a very unfamiliar, cold room. It was empty, save for a mattress, set with a pillow and blanket. He struggled to catch his breath, moving his hands to his face, trying to grasp at what just happened-- or why he was here. That was the priority. He could think about the dream-- er, memory later. Now, he needed to go. He needed to get out of this room. He got to his feet, ignoring any sense of exhaustion he still felt, scrambling over to the door, noticing it didn’t have a handle. Meaning he was basically trapped. He stumbled back, his breathing picking up pace now, as he quickly looked around the room, trying so hard not to let his fear get the best of him. He had to be strong. He had to remain cool, and calm. He shut his mouth, stifling the heavy breathing, as he sat immediately where he was standing, and taking a moment. He was in the middle of the room right now. Once he collected his breath completely, stifling it successfully, he let out a large huff, before glancing around the top parts of the walls, by the ceilings, surely enough spotting a camera. But it wasn’t like any of the cameras in Meeple headquarters, meaning he was effectively trapped in an unknown location. He stared straight into the camera for a while, before he could fear a faint buzz, something he’d recognize as an intercom, as a voice rang through the room.

“Hello, 4S. We’ve uh… Placed you in this room for precaution, please don’t be alarmed. We’re working on fixing what’s wrong with you-- er, wait sorry that sounded bad, we’re working on um… Reversing what messed you up-- uh… Shit,” The voice paused, trying to find a way to phrase it better.
“Your programming has been messed with, and uh, I’m working on fixing it. Yeah.”
He could hear another voice, one that sounded almost gruff, but it was muffled through the intercom, the object probably not being close enough for their voice to pick up in the mic completely.
4S sat patiently, eventually speaking.
“There’s nothing wrong with me. If you don’t let me go now, I’m sure Cobs is going to track my location, and retrieve me forcefully.” 4S narrowed his eyes towards the camera.
“Uh, well, that’s where you’re wrong. Someone tampered with your system, and you’re completely delusional right now, and can’t remember a lot of things.” The voice said with too much confidence for an insult. After a beat of silence, the voice let out an;
“ah, well that came out wrong, too. My apologies! If you need anything, let us know, or if you remember anything, or actually come to your senses, just talk to the camera, because I’m sure at least one of us will be listening.”
4S didn’t reply, the intercom clicking after a moment of no response to him, meaning the conversation was over.
Cobs won’t just leave him here. He’ll be able to go home soon.

…

TestTube was always good at multitasking. Right now, she had the laptop opened to the side, the harddrive plugged in, as she’d switch between searching through that, and working to remove MePhone’s beyond damaged screen. Knife stood idly against one of the walls in the lab, watching this.
“Hey uh… Weird question, why do you have a room in your lab that locks from the outside, with no way out?”
“Well, a scientist has to be prepared for anything,” Was the only explanation TestTube gave, before letting out a huff. She’d have to take the screen off the hard way.
“Hey Knife, head into the second room on the left, and retrieve something for me, please?”
“Uh, yeah, sure.” Knife pushed off a bit from the wall, stepping over. “... What is it?”
“I need a hammer.”
“Er, that doesn’t--”
“Just trust me, I’m gonna use the claw of it to pry off the screen. It’s really stuck on here.”
“Uh… Yeah. Okay.” Knife turned, mumbling something under his breaths along the lines of; ‘of course she knows hammer terminology, as he headed into the requested room. As he was searching for it, she moved her focus to the laptop, quickly clicking through the files, and programs on it, not getting very far as Knife stepped back in, holding up a hammer.
“Ah! Thank you. That should do it.” She smiled, taking the hammer, and moving back to MePhone.
“You seem awfully cheery for what just happened, y’know. You could at least try to act sensitive about it.”
“Ah, well, I’m trying to not think about it too hard. Once I have things fixed, none of this will matter, so why beat myself up about it, heh?” TestTube ignored the insult.
“... Right.” Knife frowned, glancing away. As TestTube worked at prying off the screen, Knife let out a small huff, walking back down the hall, standing outside the door to the room 4S was held in. He wasn’t going to open it, of course, but he still wanted to talk… Without TestTube being nosey, or weird about it. He sat himself down against the door, calling out;
“Can you hear me through there?”
It was silent for a moment.
“Yes. What do you want. Unless you’re here to free me, I don’t care.”
“Uh, no. We’re getting you back to normal before we let you out… But I just want to talk.”
“Not interested.”
“I’m sure you don’t wanna just sit there in silence all day. C’mon. Talk to me.” Knife egged on.
“No.” 4S replied, firmly.
“You’re technically still talking to me, even by replying with that.” Knife smirked, playing the smartass card. He could hear the phone let out a frustrated noise, before the noise of footsteps against the padded floor replaced that. There was a small metal clang, as 4S sat himself against the other side of the door.
“Fine. You won’t stop annoying me, so I’ll talk.” 4S sounded annoyed.
“Great.” Knife felt like this would’ve been funny, if 4S actually remembered who he was. Gods, he hoped TestTube would be able to fix his systems.
“So what do you want.”
“I just wanna remind you of some stuff, is all. Have you ever played a video game?”
“I haven’t--”
“You’re lying. You have, with me, and a few other objects.”
“I’m the one lying? You just pulled that out of your ass.”
“Maybe, but I remember it. Another thing? How about that flower? The time you and I got away from this island, and had a fun day out together? You got-- you um…” Knife frowned, realizing he probably shouldn’t mention MePhone. Even if he got 4S to remember any of this, if he were to snap out of this, and realize he practically killed his brother-- again, well, that wouldn’t end well.
“Erh… It was a good time. You got someone something while we were out.”
“So we’re on an island.” Was all 4S responded with. Really, 4S would be lying if he said he wasn’t feeling this unexplainable guilt. This small weight of sadness at hearing all of this. They were fabricating a life for him that actually sounded nice. It made him sound free, but that was impossible. He still belonged to Meeple. Even once he got out of here somehow, he’d still have to go back home-- to Meeple, to do more missions, whatever Cobs required of him. He hated thinking about it, so he didn’t.
“Yeah, and I realize you don’t understand this, or remember this either, but Cobs is in jail. He can’t hurt you anymore.”
“... You’re lying to me. All you’re doing is lying to me.” 4S frowned.
“I’m n-”
“You are. My creator is still out there, waiting for me to return-- no, better yet, I’m sure he’s going to send something to come absolutely destroy you for even thinking you could get to me, or kidnap me, or--” 4S’s tone became increasingly more aggravated. This was all it was. Lies. He had nothing outside of Meeple. This life, these scenes from a life that didn’t exist, that doesn’t exist, it’s all trying to sway him away.”
“Just please, listen to me--”
“No. I’m done listening, and I’m done talking.”
Knife began to say something else, still wanting to try reasoning with the device, but 4S slammed his fist against the door, and soon enough, the soft sound of footsteps made their way away from the door, to somewhere else in the room. Knife sighed. He got up as well, heading back into the main room to see TestTube’s complete focus still on MePhone, as she was working on removing his internals to check the damage of each one. She let out a displeased hum, as she pulled the last thing out, glancing at the pile of tech in front of her.
“What’s up now?”
“Er, well… um, all of this is extremely old Meeple tech. MePhone’s technically been around for-- well, a really long time, and so has 4S, since this was originally his body, but all of this stuff, well, um…” TestTube frowned.
“Spit it out.”
“His systems are only compatible with Meeple technology. I can’t just build new stuff, and replace it with my own tech, because it just wouldn’t work with how his mind was built.”
“Didn’t you literally do that when you fixed him the first time? What’s the problem?”
“Yes, well last time it was just like three things, which honestly-- it was a miracle I was able to figure any of that out, but I literally can’t fix him, unless we find specific replicas of his internals.”
“... You better not be suggesting--”
“Knife, it may be our only option.”
“This entire problem was caused by you going up there.”
“Yes, but this time we’re looking for specific components, and I won’t go unless I have confirmation from OJ, okay? Does that make you feel better?”
“Not at all… But if it’s the only way, fine.” Knife crossed his arms. Leaning back against a wall in the room.
“How’d uh, talking to 4S go?” TestTube moved her focus to the computer now, unable to do anything for MePhone at the moment, without the right components.
“He just thinks I’m lying. He’s got it so set in his head that Cobs is still out there.” Knife frowned. It almost made him wonder what he was put through up there, conditioned to think so highly of that frankly shitty guy. It was tragic, really. As TestTube worked away at figuring out the harddrive, Knife eventually stepped over to the monitor that had the camera view on it, to see 4S was lying on the mattress now. He was either sleeping, or his screen was dimmed completely. Knife honestly couldn’t tell, as the Phone made no movements. He sighed, stepping away.
“He’s asleep now, I think.”
“Okay.”
“How’s uh… That, going?” He gestured at the laptop.
“Going… annoyingly. Also, OJ should probably have been here by now, can you go check on him?”
“Uh… Yeah, okay. I’ll make sure he’s okay.” Knife would give a curt nod, heading to the exit stairs.
“Also, could you please send Fan down here too? I want him to know I’m okay.”
“Er… I could just tell him. I don’t think he’d like to come down here to see you having basically dissected MePhone. I’m sure OJ’s gonna have a rough enough time seeing this when he comes down.”
“... Fair point. Yeah, okay. Please let him know I’m fine.”
“Got it.” And he made his exit, heading up.

…

“Oh, you’re-- uh, oh my,” Paper’s tone immediately softened as he got up from the couch, noticing how tired and upset OJ seemed-- even through his hotel manager ‘gotta stay positive’ attitude.
“Are you…”
“No, I’m… I don’t think I am, but um… Listen, I need you to spread the words, and let everyone at the hotel know to be careful. We can’t have anyone dying anymore.”
“Wh… oh.” Paper’s sympathetic expression turned to something else as he picked up on what OJ meant.
“I’m so sorry,”
“It’s uh… It’s not fine, but um… I’ll manage. I always do. Hah, that’s what I’m best at, right?” OJ gave a small, sad smile, before it faded down into a frown, the ‘okay’ facade completely fading, as his posture drooped a bit.
“I um… I’m going to take a nap… Try to process all of this. Sorry, um, yeah.” OJ moved a hand to his head, blinking slowly, Gods, he was exhausted. Maybe he’d at least feel just a bit better if he got some sleep in him. He let his hand drop back down to his side as he trudged along, not noticing, or at least not paying any mind to anyone else in the lobby as he passed by.

His cork was still on the bed, him having forgotten to move it back to the bedside table, which he supposed that made it a bit more convenient, thankfully. He flopped down, almost in a daze as he moved to wrap his arms around--
Around nothing. Of course. MePhone wasn’t in the bed with him. OJ frowned, curling up a bit at this, grabbing one of the pillows, holding it tight. It took every bit of energy he had left to try not to cry, really. Their shared bed felt so cold, so lonely, as the weight that usually lasted on it was gone. OJ couldn’t hold it in, silently crying into the pillow he held tightly to himself, the bed shaking just a bit with his movements, and silent sobs. He just wanted his partner to be okay. It felt like he had lost a half of his whole-- and yeah, he wasn’t even technically dead, it was always just so terrifying. That, and the possibility that TestTube might not be able to fix him? That only added onto the fear, and sorrow, as he cried himself into his nap.

…

Taco sighed. She had been sitting, and waiting in that spot for about three hours now, and she wasn’t going to wait any longer. She got up with a huff, glancing in the distance at the hotel, then to the dock, and the small rowboat. She frowned, really thinking about it. If she left now, she’d never be welcomed back-- and well, not like she would be welcomed back anyways, but if she left now, she wouldn’t be able to explain herself. She felt like she at least owed the others an explanation. So instead of leaving, and running away from this, she slinked into the woods, heading to her familiar spot. She’d stay there for a few days, as she had been so used to all those years ago. She wasn’t going to run now, not yet at least. She had something to do, one of the things she was best at, writing a few letters.

…

Knife entered the hotel, immediately spotting Paper, who had this lasting worried expression on his face as he was talking to several objects, all of them questioning what had happened-- Paper not able to explain anything beyond ‘MePhone being out of commission’. Knife stepped up now, catching Paper’s attention.
“Where’s OJ? He was supposed to come down to the lab.”
“I-- Um, he’s in his room. He’s taking a nap… Please just give him time. This is hard for him.”
“Yeah, I know. I understand.” Knife would nod, letting out a sigh. Of course. But he wouldn’t push it. That would just make him an asshole. So he didn’t. He’d have to go right back to the lab and explain to TestTube, meaning another ten minute walk. Though, maybe longer, considering he needed to check on MePad, who was still sitting down on one of the hills outside. Knife huffed, just about to leave-- before getting an idea. Quickly turning around, he moved to run up the stairs. He had something to get from his and 4S’s shared room, making sure to stop by Fan’s room to let him in on the situation beforehand-- then grabbing exactly what he needed, before departing again.

.
.
.

“Are you going to be okay?”
“I’m unsure. I’ve… never felt something this strongly before,”
“Yeah, that’s grief for you.” Knife huffed out, sitting down on the hill next to MePad, who was staring sadly up at the afternoon sky.
“I… Have to get Toilet soon. I suppose we’ll have to stay here for a bit, to see how this plays out.”
“Yeah.” Knife frowned, placing the bag he grabbed down beside him. “I… I’m sorry I wasn’t strong enough to protect him. That I wasn’t fast enough to get there before um…” Knife trailed off, not having to finish his sentence.
“I don’t see you at fault. It isn’t even 4S’s fault, really, as unfortunate as all of this is. It’s all so complex, really.”
“I guess you’re right.”
It was silent for a bit, before MePad finally stood.
“I… shouldn’t be sitting here all day. I suppose I’ll see you at the hotel, in the time being.”
“Of course. Here’s hoping things turn out fine, right?” Knife raised an eyebrow, getting to his feet too, as he grabbed the bag.
“Yes. I suppose hoping is all we can do right now, really.”

And with that, Knife made his way back to the lab, MePad teleporting away to retrieve Toilet, and fill him in on the situation.

…

4S was standing in his creator’s office once again. He was alert, and just a bit tired from his grueling training the night prior. But that didn’t matter. He had learned to live with the burning feeling in his lungs, the ache in his mechanical limbs, he had to get used to it, not having a choice. He was alert, and on guard, waiting for Cobs to turn in his seat, and address him. Eventually, he did, his expression serious, and intimidating.
“Based on your latest training processes, and the frankly okay job you did with aiming practice, I think you may finally be ready.” Cobs smiled, sliding a small, sleek box across his desk, towards 4S. He gestured towards it, 4S almost timidly walking forward.
“Go ahead, open it.”
“Yes sir.” He spoke, clicking open the box, to reveal a new pair of sunglasses. His first pair had snapped, broken a few months prior during an absolutely awful training course he was put through, one where he barely made it through without completely shutting down out of exhaustion. But he had made it-- though without his favorite pair of eyewear. He went the following few months leading up to this without them, faced with his unpleasant bright red eyes every time he saw his reflection. But now, Cobs was giving him a new pair.
“Thank you, sir.”
“Of course. Very good that you appreciate this. Now, you understand the mission, right?”
“I think I do.”
“Yes, well, right. You’re to terminate MePhone4 at any cost. Understood? That traitor may try to play any sort of cards, pity, cowardice, or even lying, but you can’t fall for any of it. He may tell you horrible, horrible things about me, but they're all lies.”
“Yes sir, I know.”
“Good.”
“I won’t disappoint. I can promise you this.”
“Of course. Wouldn’t expect any less from you. Make sure to return once the mission is over with. Understood?”
“Yes.”
Cobs smiled, his same, frankly almost evil smile, watching as 4S made his stride out of the room.
Finally, things would be okay soon. He just had to get this over with.

Chapter Text

Despite playing his cards right, having every precaution set up, it seemed like things still managed to go wrong. Of course they did, that stupid Taco not being reliable enough to do a good job, and of course the fact the residents at that hotel were all too stubborn. Informed by his scout-- the last MePhoneX model he had left, was that they had taken 4S, and a very broken MePhone down to a lab on the island. Of course, 4S had done a wonderful job with his part, Cobs didn’t expect anything less, what with the override, and his memories of training-- even if it wasn’t the same body, well, he’d still be fast, and strong, surely. He’d still remember those things, and he’d remember what rage he had for MePhone, the same rage that Cobs had carefully manufactured to pit the two against each other, but… He had been compromised, according to his scout, and despite taking out MePhone, he hadn’t done it in the way Cobs had expected. What Cobs was expecting, well, he wasn’t sure, but the idea he had in mind mostly involved both of them ending up dead. But… Since that wasn’t the case, well, he’d have to send his scout to finish the job, wouldn’t he. Knowing how he made MePhone4S originally, he knew the components they’d need to fix MePhone4 would only be available to find up in Meeple, him only being designed to be mostly compatible with Meeple tech, and nothing else-- a safety measure to avoid theft of his hard technological work. So he knew they’d have to go back up to Meeple eventually, and well, He was going to send his scout up there to guard it. They won’t be expecting that, and with MePhone out of the picture, well, they better not take their lives for granted anymore. Cobs refused to make this easy for them. If they wanted to keep getting in the way, and keep ruining him, well, he’d have something in store for them. He was done letting them interfere. Even from jail, he refused to just sit by and do nothing. He still had enough power, and an outside agent to get away with it, anyways.

…

4S let out a shaky breath, checking the time. He had officially been stuck in this room for about… Eight hours now. Nobody else had talked to him, as he remained sleeping through most of it, the exhaustion he remembered, feeling like it was seeping into him. It was so nice, finally able to sleep, really. To rest, and know he won’t have training tomorrow. To sleep without guilt. That didn’t make his situation any better though. He was still alone, trapped in a room. He didn’t even get to know if he had eliminated the traitor. He had heard the crack, and felt the impact but he hadn’t been able to see the damage he caused. This was something he was bitter about. He needed to know he completed his mission. If he was fine, and just hiding away, well, that wouldn’t make Cobs very happy to discover. He sat up, glancing around the room. Still nothing to do. He was also still very uncomfortable, part of his screen still having that lingering fuzzy static feel to it. Unpleasant, really.

It was a few hours of complete silence, before a noise came from the door-- and… It opened. 4S’s eyes widened, as he stood up, ready to make a run for it, but he didn’t get there fast enough, as the door hadn’t opened all the way, only just a little bit, as an arm was visible, tossing a bag into the room, before the door slammed shut. 4S ran up to the door, slamming his hands against it.
“Let me out, now. I want to go home.”
“Meeple isn’t your home, 4S. Just look in the bag.”
“No. Why should I.”
“Because I know you’re probably really bored.”
Well, the gruff voice had a point. 4S stopped the slamming at the door, letting out a frustrated sigh, before stepping away, glancing over to the bag, listening as he heard audible footsteps in the hallway walking away from the room. He cautiously stepped over to the bag, kicking at it slightly. Whatever it was inside, it seemed to not weigh much, and didn’t hurt or anything to kick, so glancing up at the camera with a slight glare, he kneeled down, placing a hand into the bag. Whatever it was, it was kind of soft, a certain… almost calming? Texture to it, and a weird shape. As he pulled it out-- he immediately tossed it across the room, his eyes widening-- how… How the hell did they know he-- He didn’t say anything about it, did he? He felt his screen grow warm with embarrassment. Somehow, the objects holding him figured out he liked… Hello Kitty. That’s what the plushie was.
“What the hell!” He shouted out. No reply from the intercom. He let out a few panicked breaths at this. He didn’t understand-- he didn’t ever tell anyone about this, and didn’t understand how they could’ve known. Was this some kind of sick joke? He frowned, stifling his panic. He had to stay strong. He wasn’t going to let his captors break him like this. He kept in a sigh, as he slowly moved to retrieve the plushie. He did appreciate the calming aspect of it, at least. There was something about it that almost made him feel safe. at home. But he knew that wasn’t the case. Surely not. He held it close, letting out a soft sigh, as he moved to sit down on the mattress. As he sat there, letting the comfort of the plushie help him calm down, a plan of escape was starting to form in his head.

…

TestTube groaned, slamming her fists down on the table the laptop was on. She had spent so long looking through this stupid harddrive, and she felt like she hadn’t gotten any closer to cracking the code. It was annoying, and she was starting to wonder if this was even fixable. She still needed OJ to come down here to gain permission to go to Meeple to fix MePhone again, and well, when Knife had come back down, she was informed he was sleeping. Meaning her full focus was on this harddrive. Knife glanced over from the monitor at her, letting out a sigh; “Maybe you need to take a break. You stressing about this isn’t going to help.”
“Hah! I’m not stressed. I’m perfectly fine, and not giving up on this, because I’m not going to let this just happen. I need to fix this, Knife. I can’t afford to ‘take a break’.”
Knife rolled his eyes. Her mask of positivity was cracking with the stress, and he was sure she’d break down soon.
“What we need is Taco.”
“Excuse me?”
“She’s the one who did this to him, right? Surely if she was working with Cobs to do this, well, she’d surely remember the instructions and such, and be able to navigate this. As much as I hate the idea of her getting involved.”
“Where even is she? Did anyone find her?”
“Me and OJ did, but we ran off-- I think the two of them had an argument, and I’m sure she’s still somewhere on the island--”
“Then I’ll go find her, if this’ll help to fix 4S faster. I can’t stand seeing him like this.” Knife glanced away, getting up from the chair he was in, headed for the exit.
“How are you even going to find her?”
“I’m sure I know where she is.” He let the exit door slam shut behind him. He’d be back soon. For now though, TestTube let out a heavy sigh of her own. This was… stressful. Maybe a break would help, after all. It wasn’t like she would be able to do anything until Knife retrieved Taco-- or before OJ showed up, anyways. So she resigned to the seat by the monitor, passively watching the camera of the room 4S was in, watching him just sit there, holding the plushie Knife had thrown in for him closely. She really did wonder if it were possible that his memories were still there somewhere, just stifled, and shut down. She still had to fix whatever was wrong with his screen display. The way it was glitched out was slightly unnerving, and certainly intimidating. She wasn’t going to risk going in there to shut him off to do it while she was alone in the lab anyways, so that was a thought for later, as she rested the side of her face in her palm, nodding off a bit, before completely falling asleep. Today had been too long of a day, anyways. She could use some rest.

.
.
.

Everything felt completely disconnected. He couldn’t feel his limbs, the ground beneath him, or well-- anything, really. It was scary. It was cold, and lonely. He didn’t like this. He recognized, at least, that he wasn’t awake, but everything felt… So blurry. So exhausting. So painful. He couldn’t even feel his own breathing. This was scary, really. Eventually, after so long of this plain, drifting feeling, he felt like he could at least feel his feet again, or the fact he could register he was walking, as he realized a scene had materialized around him. A long, narrow and endless hallway, tinted with faint signs of purple. This was… Weird, to say the least. Not what he was expecting. He was walking. He still registered that, trying to reach the end that just seemed to keep getting further away, though as he looked the other way, it seemed just as endless. It didn’t help that the cold feeling felt like it was seeping into his systems.
He wanted to wake up, but as he focused on the thought, well, nothing came of it.
He was going to be stuck here for a while, wasn’t he.

…

It was simple, really. They fabricated a life for him, he just had to play the part. He had pretended to fall asleep about an hour ago, and just now pretended to wake up. He cleared his throat, placing the plushie carefully away from him-- he didn’t want to ruin the only thing that brought him any sort of entertainment or comfort in this room-- as he stepped to the middle of the room, looking straight at the camera;
“Hello? Is anyone there right now?”
Silence, for about five minutes. Eventually though, the intercom buzzed, and a tired voice called though;
“Ehm… Yeah? What do you need?”
“I-- I want to get out of here now.. I… I remember, please,” He added that on, just to be safe. He just hoped it was convincing enough.
“Y- You do? Wow, golly, okay, that’s great! Um, what exactly do you remember?”
Shit. 4S remained silent for a moment, recalling what Knife had told him.
“I… Remember going to the mainland, and… Being here, and…” He frowned.
“Right, I understand, it’s hard to recall everything after I’m sure you realized what you did to MePhone, I’m sorry, I- I’m working on fixing him, though! I- If you’re sure you’re safe, and that override isn’t going to mess with you anymore, I can probably let you out, but I’m going to wait for Knife to get back to be safe.”
Shit, no, that wouldn’t work, he had to improvise;
“Wait, no-- I- I need to see him,” He made his voice sound a bit more desperate, moving over to the door, putting a hand on it.
“I… Can’t let you, unless you’re confirmed safe, you understand, right?”
“Please-- I- I need to see him, I need to see my- my brother,” He felt sick calling the traitor that, but he had to sell it. He had to get out of here.
He could hear a sigh.
“I… Don’t know,”
“Please,” He frowned, trying to look upset. The intercom clicked off, and he could hear footsteps coming down the hall. He waited patiently. The footsteps stopped outside the door.
“Erhm, Can you stand away from the door when I open it please?”
“Yes, of course,” 4S would nod, even if it wasn’t seen, stepping away to comply. A vial filled with green liquid opened the door, almost timidly. Both of them stood there, staring at each other, before TestTube stepped aside, gesturing for him to come out. Perfect. He stepped out slowly, immediately looking down the hall, to what he assumed was the main room of the lab. He then glanced over at TestTube, who was shutting the door. It was now or never. He spun around, grabbing her wrist, and shoving her roughly into the room. She could hear her let out a panicked yell, thankfully not shattering as the floor in the room was padded, but she definitely lost a lot of the liquid in her vial, as 4S slammed the door shut. He huffed, and stepped out into the main room. One down, one more to go. That gruff voice had to be here somewhere, right? Or… His gaze wandered a bit to a table in the room, sat next to one of the counters, where a laptop was. It was what was on the table that caught his attention, though. As horrible as it felt having to call the traitor his brother just to get out of here, his stomach seemed to twist even further, an uncomfortable, unpleasant feeling washing over him as he looked down at what could only be described as a shell of what MePhone4 used to be. His internal systems were laid out on the table next to him, and his screen was in many many pieces, in a small tote next to the table. This, at the worst time possible, was when a memory peaked through his head.

.
.
.

“Uhm… Is it… a counter? The ceiling?”
“Nope.” 4S grinned, sitting in his bed, hugging the pillow on it close, as MePhone looked around the room, trying to find something in it that matched the color 4S had called out. MePhone groaned out, flopping down on his own bed.
“No fair, you’ve probably picked like a speck of dust or something. I give up.”
“Wrong again, it was one of the cabinet handles.” MePhone shot up, glaring at his brother, 4S just returning the look with a shit-eating grin.
“Oh come on! Wasn't the counter close enough?”
“It wasn’t. You know being precise is the key. Now it’s your turn.”
“Uh… Fine, whatever… Hmmm…” 4S watched MePhone glance around the room, a confident grin on his face as he called out; “Gray.”
“Easy, your mattress.”
MePhone was left speechless. There were several gray things in the room the two shared, that probably being the most common color in it, but of course, 4S had got it right the first try.
“You have to be cheating.”
“No, it’s just called being observant, you should try it sometime.” He grinned, having totally won the game. MePhone pouted a bit, a sour look on his face as he realized he had lost; “Well you should try being uh… Uh, not lame! Yeah!” MePhone stuck a tongue out at him, before flopping back down on his bed.
“Oh no, how will I ever do that?” 4S just smiled.
“Exactly!”
It was silent for exactly a moment, before the both of them laughed. It was one of the rare moments they just got to sit around and rest up in the cloud, just waiting for Cobs to pull them away for training, but it had been nice.

4S blinked back into focus, noticing the tears in his eyes-- when had he started crying? He can’t… He isn’t allowed to cry. He quickly wiped away the tears, ignoring the fuzzy feeling still, as he bitterly glanced away from the husk of what MePhone used to be. He glanced around the rest of the room, finally noticing the blaring exit sign over one of the doors.
“Huh,” He shrugged, heading towards it, though he didn’t get far, as a thud-- well, two thuds were heard. He swung around to look-- to see Knife, the same Knife that had tried to stop him much much earlier, and… Taco? The work associate? As Knife stood up and immediately noticed the phone, 4S stood completely still, his hand halfway to the doorknob, looking like a deer in headlights. This was going to be… Interesting.

…

Taco sighed, pacing around the stump as she read back the letter she had carefully written out. It explained why she was leaving, and why she did what she did. She had to use several sheets, but she finally worded it all out correctly. She just hoped receiving another letter wouldn’t hurt Microphone too much. She hoped it’d be enough. Though, as she sealed it in an envelope, she immediately dropped everything, being picked up from her top, immediately alarmed as she struggled in the grasp of whoevers this was-- oh Gods was this The MePhoneX there to finish the job?
“Cool it.” Knife’s gruff voice cut through her momentary panic, before she stopped struggling, clearing her throat.
“Ah, right. Of course it’s you.”
“Yeah, it’s me. You better not have been thinking about leaving, or…” He glanced down to the sealed letter, rolling his eyes as he let go of her, letting her drop to her feet. “Of course. Whatever. You don’t need that. You’re not leaving until you help us reverse whatever the hell you did to 4S, and you’re going to explain to everyone YOURSELF what you did.”
“Why should I?”
Knife sneered, leaning in.
“You should, because you caused this mess. That, and MePhone’s recovery powers are completely off the grid. You wouldn’t want something to happen to you, would you?”
“How low of you, resorting to threats.”
“Well, you know me, always the violent one.” Knife stepped back, incredibly annoyed. He didn’t like being threatening anymore, having left that behind mostly back after season one of inanimate insanity had wrapped up, opting to be a loner jerk instead. Well, that was a long time ago. If threats were what it took, so be it.
“Come on.” Knife didn’t wait for an answer, grabbing her again, not giving her a choice. She just let out an annoyed huff, unable to do much when she was carried by someone like this.
The two of them made it back to the lab with no conversation, Taco being tossed down first, before Knife went down-- though not to what he had expected. The moment he stood up, he locked eyes with-- 4S? How the hell did he get out?

4S took the first move, yanking open the door, and running. He deemed his mission successful enough. He just needed to go-- to get out, and go back home. His plan was to steal the ship, and improvise from there. He--
He didn’t get very far, out of the lab at the very least, stepping onto the nice soft grass-- a much nicer feeling than the padded lab room, and the concrete stairs, the cold winter breeze making itself very clear. It was the middle of the night now, but he didn’t get time to process much as something- no, someone, grabbed his ankle, yanking him down, as he face-planted into the grass. That felt awfully familiar. He twisted around onto his back, kicking at the arm. Of course it was Knife again. Despite the kicking, he kept an iron grip.
“Just let me GO!” 4S yelled.
“No! I’m not letting you go this time!”
“Wh-- what?” 4S’s anger shifted to something closer to confusion. That was weird, wasn’t it? Yeah.
“You’re going to come down to this lab again, and let us fix you, and I’m not letting you just run away to someone who isn’t even a problem anymore, if you would stop being stubborn for one minute to listen to us! To realize that you’re completely out of it right now!”
“I-” Something uncomfortable twisted in his systems. It felt awful really, and despite the cold, he felt himself warming up. This was all so much to process. He didn’t believe a word he was saying, right? So why- why were his systems running so…
So slow.

Knife watched as 4S’s screen flickered out completely, him flopping back into the grass. At least that took one problem off the list, but that still left-- Oh shit, what happened to TestTube?

…

She groaned, putting a hand to her head. It was a miracle she hadn’t damaged her glass at all, especially at a time like this, but wow she’d be lying if she said everything didn’t feel like it was spinning. Her vial was much less than half full, as she stumbled around the room, muttering out random nonsense as she reached the door, tiredly leaning against it, Gods, she was so dizzy. She let out a yelp as the door opened behind her, the only thing keeping her up being Taco, who reacted quickly, so she wouldn’t spill any more.
“Ahaaah… hah… heeyyyy you,”
“Oh wonderful. Please tell me you have back-up liquid or something.” Taco groaned. Of course.
“Hehehe…. Yeeup!”
“Can you… tell me where?”
“Uh… Great question!” She beamed, a tired smile on her face.
It didn’t take too long for Knife to come back down the stairs, carefully carrying an unconscious 4S into the room, momentarily ignoring Taco helping TestTube down the hall, as he moved to place 4S on the bed, sighing as he moved the plushie into the phone’s grasp. He figured he’d be out for a while, having overheated, or something. He made sure to secure the door, before walking out, glaring at TestTube.
“She said she has back-up liquid somewhere, go find it. I’m gonna make sure she doesn’t shatter herself or something.” Taco moved quickly, hopping up on a counter as she sat TestTube down on one of the stools, the taller girl giggling and kicking her feet against the stool, as if she were completely air-headed in the moment. Knife-- and Taco remembered briefly, that this was how she acted when she was without her liquid back in season two of inanimate insanity, but they didn’t think it’d ever really happen again, considering how careful she usually was. Knife just had to wonder how the hell any of this even happened, with how cautious TestTube was known to be. Knife just huffed, heading to check out the other rooms in the lab, looking specifically for storage. Eventually, he found… well, it was a metal barrel, with a caution symbol on it. Great, this was going to be fun.

…

The long, and annoying process of helping TestTube get the liquid in her vial back up to normal was incredibly annoying, and long, lasting about half an hour, because she just wouldn’t sit still, and wouldn’t stop laughing, Knife having to physically hold her still while Taco did it.
But here she was, with a hand on her head, letting out a groan, as she felt… mostly back to normal, just with a slight headache. She’d be fine though.
“Wh… Let’s not talk about that to anyone, got it?” She muttered out.
“Yeah, okay. Fine. But you owe me big time. That was annoying.” Knife stepped back, letting out a huff.
TestTube just rolled her eyes.
“Oh yeah, by the way, what the hell happened? Did you let him out?”
“He- um… It was a lapse in judgment. He deceived me.”
“Wow, you’re just falling for what anyone has to say, huh.”
“He was convincing! He told me he remembered, and he wanted to see MePhone. If you heard how upset he sounded, you would’ve believed him too.” TestTube glanced down, once again annoyed with herself. Whatever. She could hate herself later, but for now, she glanced at Taco, who just stood awkwardly on the counter.
“You. Off the counter.”
“Fine, fine.” She sighed, hopping down, stepping over to the laptop.
“How do I fix him?”
“Hm. What’s in it for me?”
“Not the time.” Knife stepped forward, in a threatening manner. Taco flinched, moving her hands up defensively.
“Now now, listen--”
“No, you listen. You better help us fix him, and not do anything shady, or else I will kill you. Understood?”
“That’s a bit--”
“No, it’s not. I don’t care anymore. You’ve royally messed everything up, and now you need to fix it. Nothing is ‘in it’ for you, just the fact that I won’t kick your ass if you just decide to be a decent person for once.” Knife clenched his fists, realizing how angry he was getting. Taco stifled a rude retort, knowing it would send him over the edge, so she said nothing, just taking a moment, before hopping onto a stool to check out the laptop. It was really late now. OJ was surely going to come down in the morning, meaning they could at least get the meeple thing figured out, but for now, this was still the focus, Taco clicking through several folders and programs, opening a specific one.
“You need to plug him in to this. If you bothered to look properly, you should’ve seen the reverse… Though, I… Must say, I don’t know if it will restore his memories.”
“What.” Knife stepped over, looking at the screen of the laptop.
“I don’t know if the program completely deleted his memories after Meeple, or if they’ve just been stifled, but if… If that’s the case, none of you are allowed to be mad at me.”
“We have every right to be mad at you, Taco.”
“I’m sure if you knew why I had to do all this in the first place, you wouldn’t be so quick to hate me.”
“Oh yeah? Why don’t you actually tell us? Be honest for once?” Knife rolled his eyes.
“You know what, fine. I was blackmailed.” Taco glared at Knife specifically, watching as his eyebrows furrowed.
“He threatened me with a MePhoneX-- and before you dare call bullshit, I saw that thing for myself.”
“And you didn’t think to just destroy it? Not do any of this at all?”
“No, I didn’t, because I was under a lot of stress. You of all objects should know how that feels.”
Knife glanced away, angry. TestTube didn’t know what she was alluding to with Knife, and as curious as she was, she wasn’t going to pry. It was none of her business.
“Gods, whatever. I’m still pissed at you. Nothing is ever going to make me forgive you for this.”
“Why do you even care so much about 4S? He’s just…” Taco trailed off, knowing if she finished her thought, she would’ve been hit or something.
“Gods fine, I love him, okay?. Are you happy now? I finally have feelings for literally anyone, and like the few days after I actually realize that for myself, he’s torn away, and his programming is completely screwed over-- and he doesn’t even remember me? You can’t even begin to imagine how that feels. Fuck you, Taco. After this, I don’t want to see your face. Just fix him, and get your ass out of here.” Knife yelled out, further clenching his fists, before just turning, and exiting the lab to cool off, letting the door slam behind him.

It was silent for a few moments, the tension in the air heavy, before Taco just sighed, hopping down from the stool. “I’ll grab him so we can just get this over with.” And she walked down the hall to retrieve the currently unconscious 4S, dragging him by the wrist out of the room, making sure he hadn’t turned back on, or cooled off enough to turn back on himself, as she brought him in, TestTube already working to grab a cord to do this. TestTube sighed, not saying anything, as she plugged it in, ready to run the command. She still had yet to fix his screen, but hopefully if he were back to normal, and without the urges to be violent, it’d make things a lot easier. Honestly, she hoped for Knife’s sake that 4S’s memories hadn’t been deleted, or hidden away. She hit enter on the command, letting it run.

…

He was so tired. So tired, and uncomfortable. The hallway offered little to no entertainment, and it was boring. So that left him with his thoughts. That’s all he could do, really, just walk, and think. Right now, he was thinking about everything that went unsaid. He spoke into the void, to himself, to anyone that could’ve been listening, endless apologies to everyone, really. He just… He could have fought back. He could have tried to get away, really there were a million things he could’ve done to avoid going out like this, but what was the point. He had already been so, so exhausted. So tired of running from everything. So tired of… living, really. No, that was morbid, wasn’t it. A bit too dark. He didn’t know if he meant that or not, but he honestly couldn’t decide right now, the hallway not being very fun. He could’ve done a million things to get out of dying, but he didn’t. He didn’t even try. He wondered how OJ felt. If his body was even found, really. He didn’t know. He could still be out in those woods, a corpse waiting to be found-- no, wait, that was still morbid. He supposed that couldn’t be helped-- but… He felt… So sad thinking about OJ. how he didn’t say goodbye, how it had been too long since he had told him he loved him, and held him close. At least, it felt like a long time. He didn’t know what time it was here. It was just a long, empty hallway. Unpleasant.
His thoughts drifted to his brother. He didn’t care if he never woke up, honestly just wishing he could know that 4S wouldn’t blame him for this. As scary as it was, he wasn’t going to blame his brother. He could’ve done a million things differently, not just with what happened to cause his downfall, but everything, really. He could’ve insisted they left together-- or stayed, or made him leave with him, but… He ran away himself, like a coward, taking MePad with him, to at least save him from having to deal with the horrors of Meeple. At least he managed to save someone. He really wanted to stop walking. He was so tired.
So, very tired.

…

4S jolted awake, once again in the small, padded room, incredibly confused.
“Wh…” He put a hand to his head. It was still fuzzy… But he… Remembered? He…
He killed his brother. He could feel his stomach drop at that thought, his breathing picking up, standing up frantically;
“I-- TestTube, please-- Anyone?? Where is he? He's-- I- I didn’t--” 4S trembled, looking up at the camera. The rage, and need for destruction was gone now, thankfully, but his memories, and complete sorrow were here now, taking that place, as he stumbled around the room a bit, trembling so much that he couldn’t keep his balance, falling to his knees, as he broke down, sobbing into his hands.
He was back. He was okay, finally, but cursed with remembering the fact that he made a mistake that he wasn’t sure anyone could fix. The door opened now, 4S not looking up as someone approached, wrapping their arms around him as he cried. He couldn’t bear to face anyone right now, not checking as he sobbed, the image of MePhone on that table fresh in his mind now. He just needed his brother to be okay-- after everything, after all of the things they had both been through, he couldn’t let it end like this.
He couldn’t.

Chapter Text

It was morning now, and OJ didn’t feel any less exhausted when he woke up. Really he just felt even more tired, but he knew he’d give himself a headache if he tried to go back to sleep. That, and he needed to get stuff done. His stare lingered, as he still held the pillow close, to the empty half of his bed, for just a few moments, before he couldn’t bear to look, flopping over to face the alarm clock on his nightstand. Looks like he had slept through both dinner last night, and probably breakfast. Whatever, he’d be fine. He took a long, shaky breath, before sitting himself up, letting the pillow drop to his side. He had to go down to the lab, he needed to… Well, yeah. He needed to. It didn’t matter how he felt, this was just something to get over with. So he got up, trudging out of his room, and down the hall. As he entered the lobby, Paper peeked out of the kitchen, immediately noticing him;
“Hey, are you doing any better?” His tone was soft, sympathetic.
“Yeah, yeah. I’m fine, don’t worry about me, okay?” OJ gave his best, convincing smile, even though Paper could see right through it.
“You know I can’t help but worry. I know this must be hard, are you sure? You should definitely eat something--”
“No, no. I have to go to the lab, um, talk to TestTube and Knife about this, figure out what needs to be done. I can eat something later, okay?”
“OJ…” Paper frowned.
“Trust me, I’ll be okay.”
“OJ.”
“Listen! It probably won’t even take that long. I’ll be back up for lunch… or dinner, or whatever. I just have to get going.” OJ kept his faltering grin up, as he waved a dismissive hand, moving to walk out, once again ignoring concerned glances from those in the lobby, heading out into the cold winter weather. It was incredibly chilly today, and gray clouds loomed above in the sky. OJ wondered if it was cold enough to snow yet. He hoped not. He didn’t want his juice getting diluted by snow today. That was the last thing he needed. He shook it all off, ignoring everything in his mind as he made his way to the lab entrance, letting his thoughts blank out, as he slid down the slide into the lab.

The moment he stood up, all eyes were on him. TestTube, Knife, and… 4S. OJ immediately tensed up, trying to keep his neutral expression even though his body language betrayed him.
“Hey,” TestTube was the first to speak.
“Hi. Um, stupid question, is he… Okay now?” He carefully gestured towards 4S, who was leaning back on one of the counters, a deeper frown than usual on his face.
“I’m fine now.” He grumbled.
“Yeah, okay um…” OJ’s gaze wandered to MePhone, who was still displayed out on the table, all of his internals out. OJ stifled a frown, stepping over. He didn’t know anything about technology stuff, but even he could tell that almost all of the components looked damaged, the only one looking relatively fine being labeled with a piece of tape that he figured TestTube had put on, labeling it; ‘SYSTEM -- MIND’
“Um… So what’s keeping you from fixing him?” He asked, uneasily looking over at TestTube, who glanced away from him.
“I… um, it’s complicated--”
“She doesn’t have the right components. We’ll have to go back up to Meeple to get the right shit, because his systems are old, some stupid tech explanation about his system only being compatible with meeple tech, or whatever.” Knife piped in, giving a rather crude summary of what she had said yesterday, not giving her time to screw around and stutter through it nervously. TestTube just sighed.
“Pretty much.”
“You’re… Going back up there?” He frowned.
“Yes, I know that’s what caused this problem in the first place, but listen, please, it might be the only way. The only other way, well… We’re not doing that again.”
It took a second for OJ to grasp what she meant by that, before glancing at 4S, and realizing. Oh, right.
“... What’s stopping you?”
“Well, I’m not letting her agree to a mission going up there unless we have confirmation from you. Knowing how dangerous it is--”
“Go. Go ahead, I don’t… I don’t care.” OJ moved a bit, looking away from all of the other objects in the room.
“Just bring him back, please, I-” He shut his mouth, hearing how his voice broke, knowing he wouldn’t be able to get anything else out without crying. He felt a hand on his shoulder.
“Got it. We’ll try not to take long. I promise.”
“We? You’re not coming with us, TestTube.”
“Excuse me?”
“You’re a glass object. Fragile. If anything goes wrong up there, and you die, you’re just gone.”
“...” She glanced away, annoyed. He had a point. “Fine. You can’t just go up there alone, though. Who are you taking with you?”
“Well first off, we’re taking MePad to get up there, secondly--”
“I’m going.” A voice called out, TestTube and OJ jolting as Taco stood leaning on the exit door. Nobody had heard her come in.
“Like hell you are, did you even hear what I said last time I--”
“Well yes, I did, but you forget he has a scout. An aggressor, and I have a gun. I want to make things right, Knife. Let me do this one thing.”
“Don’t think helping out with this is going to get anyone to forgive you.” Knife sneered, but ultimately caving. She’s tough. She’d be good enough for this mission.
“We should still take another object, but--”
“I… Need to make things right.” 4S spoke up, finally.
“What? No, we’re not taking you back there, I don’t want to put you through all that again--”
“No, please, I- I need… I need to help fix him, I need to help fix all of this. It's my fault he’s like this, so let me do this.” 4S wasn’t going to take no for an answer. The rest of the room just seemed to frown at him.

He just wanted to make things right. He knew he’d never be able to take it back, that this was his fault, and he knew he’d just have to get out of MePhone’s life out of this-- sure that there was no forgiveness for him, sure that there was no going back now, but he wasn’t going to just leave his brother like this, without helping.
Knife sighed an almost sad sigh, glancing away from the phone.
“Fine, just please, take things slow.”
“... Okay.”
“I… Guess our group is settled. I guess we should… get this done?” Knife shrugged, looking over to OJ, who had his gaze locked onto the shell on the table, trembling.
“OJ?” He asked, cautiously. OJ blinked, moving a hand to his head, glancing back over;
“Huh?”
“Did you get enough sleep?” TestTube raised an eyebrow.
“Yeah, yeah. Just slept through dinner.”
“Did you at least--”
“Can you guys not bother me about this? There are bigger things to worry about than if I have or haven’t eaten anything in a while.” He gestured towards MePhone. Really, OJ looked a bit out of it. Not completely here today. Even though he surely got more than enough sleep, he just… Didn’t seem alright. It was probably the grief.
“Geez, fine. No need to get annoyed at us for being concerned.” Knife rolled his eyes, looking at TestTube, who looked equally as worried. Hopefully, she’d keep an eye on him while the others were gone.
“Well…” TestTube coughed into her hand; “I’ve made a handy list of the needed components,” She paused, handing it to Knife. It had pictures, and everything. How convenient.
“Huh… Yeah, We’ll get going. Just take it slow, you too, okay? Make sure to get something to eat while we’re out, okay OJ?”
OJ seemed to have spaced out again, almost seeming like he was dozing off.
Knife just sighed, carefully grabbing 4S’s hands, not even thinking about the implications of this-- as the two walked out, through the exit door, up the stairs, taco following behind. They had to go up and get MePad from the hotel, and they had to get this over with. The sooner they could fix up MePhone, and move on with all of this, the better.

It was only when 4S pulled his hand away, at the top of the staircase, when Knife realized what he had done. 4S was… Well, completely stunned, and speechless, and if Knife were able to feel his screen, he would’ve felt how warm it was, but of course he didn’t. Knife cleared his throat, almost awkwardly;
“Erh, sorry. Just needed to lead you out of there… Probably should’ve just told you to follow…”
“It’s… Fine. I didn’t mind the gesture.” 4S glanced away. Despite him being mentally back to normal, his screen was still glitched, leaving one of his eyes visible, the only thing actually visible on the glitched side of his face. It was… A bit unnerving, but not too much so, now that he was at least not filled with the need to destroy and kill anymore. He wondered why TestTube didn’t just fix him the moment he was okay again, but… He’d have to get her to do that later. Taco cleared her throat, snapping Knife out of his thoughts.
“We don’t need everyone spacing out today. Let’s retrieve MePad.”
“Er, yeah.” Knife would nod, shaking off all the thoughts, as he led the way back to the hotel. He just hoped this wasn’t going to be as long of, or as bad of a day as yesterday had been. He could only hope.

.
.
.

The cold has long since seeped into his systems as he continued to walk. After thinking about rough things for so long, his mind was completely blank right now, at least from anything that would make him feel bad about what got him here, as he just mindlessly walked towards a horizon he’d never see. He wanted to see it though, the purple light the horizon gave was alluring. A comfort, really. He wanted to reach out and grab it. He really wanted to stop walking.
At that thought, maybe the universe felt it was time to give him at least a little bit of control, he stopped in his tracks, his arm outstretched towards the light. He glanced down, realizing he was completely still now. Huh. That’s new.

.
.
.

TestTube got up from her stool, letting out a soft sigh, as she grabbed OJ’s arm, carefully, leading him into one of the other rooms in the lab-- the one she usually used to watch movies with Fan, sitting the cup down on the couch. He still seemed a bit dazed, placing a hand on the rim of his cup.
TestTube frowned at this.
“I’m gonna make you something to eat, okay? Just uh, stay here? Please?” She shrugged, before leaving the room, OJ just giving a slight nod, shutting his eyes. Not eating had definitely affected him, unfortunately. He was just so out of it right now, the combination of hunger and grief not helping at all as he trembled. He knew if Paper saw him like this, he’d be so disappointed. Well, he was sure anyone would be disappointed that he wasn’t just sucking this up and moving on, when things were going to be fine. They were going up there right now, for Gods’ sake, he didn’t understand why this hurt so much. Why he couldn’t just get on with his day and be normal. As TestTube left, he moved his hands down from the rim of his cup to hold over his eyes. He felt how his hands trembled against his glass as he just held his face, but didn’t cry. He didn’t have any tears left to cry, even though it felt like he did. This felt awful. All of it. He just wanted to hold MePhone, and be assured he wasn’t going to leave again, that he wasn’t going to get hurt, and that he’d be fine, and wouldn’t have to deal with any more hurt. He just wanted his partner to be okay. To be happy. The fact that both of them were so far from being okay made him feel like a failure really. Oh the things he could’ve done to avoid all of this. He let out a shaky breath as the door to the room clicked open, slowly lowering his hands from his face to look at TestTube, who was holding a plate, and a glass of water. It was just toast, and scrambled eggs, nothing complex or anything, but it would be enough. She handed the plate over, carefully placing the cup down on the floor next to OJ, knowing it wouldn’t spill unless he accidentally kicked it over or anything. She sat down on the opposite end of the couch as he slowly ate away at the breakfast he had been provided. OJ couldn’t help but feel his stomach twisting while he ate. Maybe it was just the hunger being satiated, but he felt so guilty. So guilty that he hadn’t been enough, that he didn’t deserve this. He felt nauseous. TestTube watched him place the plate down on the couch, the small meal only barely half eaten as he moved his hands over his face again, letting out yet another shaky breath.
“Sorry,” He apologized; “I… Can’t eat any more of it.” He frowned.
“That’s fine, I’m just glad you got some of it down.” TestTube sighed, taking the plate and putting it over on a side table in the room. She’d take it in later. “I… I’m sorry this is so hard. I promise once I get those components though, all of my time and attention will be on fixing him, and making things r--”
“Why did you do this?”
“...huh?”
“Why did you go up there… In the first place?”
“I…” TestTube glanced away. “I’m not shifting the blame onto Taco by saying this, but she came to me while I was rebuilding 4S. Several months ago, with the idea of going up there to retrieve knowledge. I don’t know if her plan was just to betray us from the start, but that’s what she used to convince me, and I… I wanted to go and do that, the pursuit of knowledge and all…” She paused, glancing at OJ, who was still trembling.
“At the time, I thought it would be safe, and it would be fine, but 4S found out, and asked to come along for closure, or something, and I couldn’t… I couldn’t deny him that, after everything I’m sure he went through up there.”
OJ’s lasting frown deepened.
“So we went up there, and I thought everything was going fine, but I guess not. Taco just had other plans. Once she’s back, please, don’t let her leave until we find out why she did all this.”
OJ remained silent, before moving his hands away from his face again, his expression dull as he picked up the glass of water, drinking some of it. Though his hands still shook, he held the glass in his lap.
“I… I knew the risks, but we did it anyway, and I’m sorry. I’m so sorry.” TestTube’s tone grew quiet as she glanced away again. She hated messing up like this. She hated making constant mistakes just because she was being nosy, or in ‘pursuit of knowledge’ neither of those things were good, or valid excuses. She had messed up, and she didn’t know how to fix it. Yeah, she would be able to fix MePhone once the others were back, but nothing was going to reverse the pain all of this had caused.

…

He’s so sleepy. So cold. He had started walking again at some point-- he didn’t really know, or have the brain power to process it, so he just decided to deal with it. He felt so close, but so far away. He knew, deep down, he was probably never reaching the end of this hallway, despite how badly he wanted to-- how badly he needed to, how the purple light was so, so warm, and he was so cold. How he’d be safe once he reached it. He’d be okay.
He kept walking,
And walking,
And walking.
It was so tiring, but not physically. He still didn’t physically feel anything, not the sensation of feeling his feet against the floor, not his arms when he reached out to slide his hand along one of the walls of the hallway, not his own breathing. Nothing. It was tiring mentally, knowing he wasn’t going to reach it. But he needed to anyway.

Eventually, the light at the end of the hallway seemed to… grow, the coldness ebbing away at him fading just a bit.
Was…
Was he finally getting closer?

…

Three of them stood outside Meeple, almost all of them hesitant to actually step into the building. MePad opted to wait outside, knowing it would be safer. Knife glanced down to the list in his hands, then at 4S, who had his arms crossed, his expression completely neutral, not giving away how he felt at the moment. He looked down at Taco now, who had her gun at the ready-- just in case. Taco was the first to move, letting out an annoyed groan as she kicked open the door, just wanting to get this over with. They didn’t have time to stall.
“Are we splitting up, or sticking together?”
“Sticking together. There’s no way any of us would be safe alone if he sent his ‘agent’ up here.”
“Right. Keep that thing set on kill, and don’t even think about aiming it at either of us.”
“Of course.” She’d nod.
“What’s the first thing on the list?” Taco asked, carefully peeking around the area the three stood in. Knife handed the paper to 4S, who tilted his head;
“Listen, you know this building better than either of us, where can we find this stuff?” Knife turned to look at the phone, who was examining the list.
“Second floor. I’m pretty sure most of the old tech components are locked away in a closet somewhere. That’s probably where most of it is.” 4S turned towards the stairs, ready to head up, though all three of them paused, stopping in their tracks as footsteps sounded through the building, coming down the stairs. The foe made itself known rather quickly, sprinting down the stairs, not giving much time to react as its claw was already crackling with that red, electric energy. It targeted onto Taco, of all object first, as she held up a gun, taking aim, though it was too quick for her, sending a very strong punch, sending her staggering back, the gun scattering out of her hand as Knife and 4S quickly made their own distance;
“TACO?!” Knife yelled out, hearing a loud crack as she fell. That didn’t sound good. MePhoneX acted rather quickly, a lot quicker than the one Knife and Taco faced last time, as it moved to grab at Knife, who kept stepping back-- into a wall. Shit. Just as it raised its clawed hand to electrocute him, or something, it was smacked away, 4S raising a laptop over his own head, and bringing it down on the electronic, this not doing any damage, but giving Knife the time to get away, as 4S distracted it. MePhoneX turned to face 4S now, clamping its claws together in anger, as its full focus was on him now. Knife took this chance to check on Taco, who… well, she looked like she was falling apart, quite literally. Her hard shell was cracked, and half of her face had crumbled. She was completely out cold, but thankfully not dead. He still hated her so much, for all of this, but he didn’t want her dead. He glanced over at 4S, and MePhoneX, who were struggling with each other, then at the gun that Taco had dropped. He had a plan now, scrambling to grab it. He aimed, but couldn’t get a clear shot. He wasn’t going to risk accidentally hitting the wrong phone, either so he just let out an annoyed huff, running into action, tossing the gun up into the air as he tackled MePhoneX away from 4S, both of them hitting the ground, MePhoneX below him, as he began to punch at the screen, not doing any damage. 4S noticed the gun clatter to the ground, realizing what Knife was doing, as he moved to grab it. He shoved off every bad feeling at holding this weapon-- because this was important, as he took aim. He wasn’t afraid of this anymore. But he was afraid of shooting Knife. But… He understood what Knife had done this for, him being a much smaller target, much less at risk than 4S would’ve been if Knife had taken the shot. That, and 4S was a great marksman. That was one thing he always excelled at in training. He took aim, firing just as Knife was kicked off of the robot. Knife glanced behind him, the ray from the gun having whizzed by his head, hitting MePhoneX, looking at 4S, who immediately dropped the gun again, huffing.
“Hey, it’s all good now, okay?” Knife gave a thumbs up.
“Y… Yeah. It is.” 4S turned around, looking at Taco.
“We need to make sure she isn’t going to--”
He was cut off by a pained noise, whipping back around to Knife, to see the very damaged MePhoneX above him, leaning down, and gripping his blade tightly with its electrically charged claws. It couldn’t do anything much to physically damage Knife, but it could certainly hurt him, knowing metal didn’t act well with electricity. Despite being a great marksman, 4S had made the grave mistake of not making sure the foe had actually died.

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.
.

He was running now. He hated running, but the good thing about this was that he didn’t feel it. He knew he was going much faster than his walking pace, but he didn’t have to feel the effects of it. That was nice, at least. He could swear he was getting closer, and closer. Despite it seeming like a never-achieving goal, he was going to reach it. He was going to reach the comforting, warm, purple light, and he was going to be safe. It had to be getting closer, noticing how the light kept growing, and growing, and-- and he could see the end of the hallway. He reached out, reaching, and reaching, and running, and he could feel it, the coldness fading as he could feel the warmth, grabbing for an intangible force, the purple light reaching its brightest at the end as he felt the wall. Like really felt it. Unlike anything else in this… hallway, he could feel this wall. He could feel the warmth. He closed his eyes, soaking in the warmth as he leaned against the wall, sighing out a content sigh, as he sat down. He was so tired--

And he was cold again. His eyes snapped open, and the purple light was completely gone now. He looked around desperately-- the light not even appearing on the other end of the hallway-- there not even being a hallway anymore as his breath hitched. Noticing he was just in a small room now. A small, dark, gray, doorless room. It was so cold in here, and he had nowhere left to go. No more warmth to seek. His breath hitched again, as he looked down at his trembling hands.
He was so tired. Now that it was just cold, nothing to go towards, what… What was the point?
He was so tired, and he just wanted to wake up.
He was going to take a nap.
Surely it wouldn’t hurt.
Nothing was going to change here, anyways.

…

Knife struggled to push the robot off of him, gasping in pain as the electricity coursed through his blade, and his head. His head felt like it was splitting-- Gods, this thing was trying to fry his brain. He desperately kept trying to push the robot off of him, but nothing worked, his strength being rendered useless against this thing, as it weakened him by the second, everything growing fuzzy, and hazy. After one last, weak push that didn’t work, his hands fell down to his sides, the pain growing overwhelming, his vision blurring. This robot had been a lot stronger, and more reactive than the one he had faced before. He hated that. As his thoughts started to fade, a few shots rang out, and the electric feeling just… stopped, the robot completely falling limp on top of him. He didn’t even have the strength to shove it off, 4S running over and doing that for him, as he hoisted the blade up.
“Wh… hhh…” He winced, unable to get anything out.
“I- I’m sorry, I should’ve made sure it was dead-- shit, I’m getting MePad to take you and Taco back, okay?” 4S frowned.
“N… can’t… can’t leave. Gotta…”
“No. You’ll help by going home and not dying. I’m not losing you, too.” 4S glared at Knife, who just sighed, moving a hand to his head, pulling it back as he was shocked, wincing again as the static shock feeling coursed through his arm. Well, that was unpleasant. It had certainly been a lot worse than the stun device on that gun, but at least he hadn’t been rendered unconscious.

4S sprinted out of the building, grabbing MePad.
“Take them back, NOW. we can’t have either of them dying.”
“Yes, of course, I’ll come back for you.”
“Yeah.” 4S was still holding the gun tightly in his grasp, not daring to let it go again. He grabbed the list he had set aside on a table earlier, letting out a huff as MePad teleported away with Taco first, her being much more injured. 4S let out a breath, regaining his composure.
“I’ll be okay. I’ll get the components, and we’ll fix my brother.”
Knife would just nod, still breathing heavily from the discomfort. He’d be fine of course, but damn did this really hurt at the moment.

So 4S ran up the stairs as MePad returned, heading back into the building to retrieve Knife now. He wasn’t going to let anything else stop him from doing this now.

…

It didn’t take long to find the room. Shattered glass still littered the space in front of the locked door, as 4S looked around to make sure nothing was going to happen this time, before moving his hand up to the scanner. It beeped, and the door slid open, the light from the hallway pouring in, the only other light in the room being the dim red from his screen, as the door slid closed slowly behind him. The room was littered with cobwebs, boxes, and old technology. There was an empty wall, lined with a large, nasty crack in it. 4S could only wonder what that was from, but he had more important things to focus on, grabbing a random box, and emptying it out. He’d use that to bring the components back, as he searched the room, slowly gathering things off the list.
Thankfully, for all of their sakes really, he was unbothered the rest of his time there, as he took the box, heading out of the room, to finally leave this building behind.
He might not have gotten closure, but he didn’t care. His only focus now was getting his brother fixed. Knowing he was alive and well again was good enough for him, as he approached MePad, back on the first floor.
They were going home now, leaving Meeple completely empty, and lifeless now, Cobs plans finally, and once again thwarted. There was nothing else he could do to bother any of them from Jail anymore.

Chapter Text

First things first, the moment Taco was transported back, she was the immediate focus, her shell cracking, and crumbling beneath her. TestTube did the best she could, rushing her into one of the side rooms in a completely different side of the lab, since the table was occupied, as she worked to stabilize the crumbling. As much as all of them hated Taco right now, they weren’t letting her die. TestTube worked quickly, making sure the shell was stable enough, making sure she wasn’t going to lose any of her inner lettuce or tomatoes, mostly sloppily keeping her together, but it was working for now, so she wasn’t going to complain.
OJ followed into the room not long after, having been caught completely off guard by seeing her and MePad teleport back into the lab, with her state like this. MePad claimed he’d be back with Knife too, which was incredibly worrying. OJ could only wonder if everything had gone wrong, if the components were a lost cause, or if-- If 4S had turned out to be faking all of it again-- having been filled in on that event by TestTube while the two sat on the couch. It was safe to say OJ let his thoughts get away from him. It was unpleasant, pacing around, waiting for MePad to bring Knife. Thankfully, it didn’t take long. Knife was physically fine, if not just dizzy, and a little out of it now, MePad filling them all in on what happened, and that he had to get back to make sure 4S wasn’t going to get hurt either.

Leaving TestTube to deal with Taco. she was stable enough now, but they’d definitely have to do something about that later. Knife was sat down in the television room on the couch, OJ joining him, his hotel worry kicking in full force despite how out of it he was himself;
“Are you okay? Do you need pain medicine or anything?”
“No, no I’ll be fine.” Knife winced, still unable to touch his blade without getting shocked.
“Just uh… Don’t touch my blade I guess. I- I guess this’ll probably go away on its own soon, I dunno.” He grumbled.
“Um… Okay, as long as you’re going to be fine?”
“Yeah, yeah.” Knife glanced away, frustrated with himself.
“What… Happened to you up there?”
“Um… There was this MePhoneX model, Taco was right about that ‘scout’,” he’d use air quotes. “This one was uh… A lot stronger and volatile than the one we faced before when we were saving MePhone last time. It tried to shock me to death, or something, but 4S shot it like… a lot, so I’m hoping that means it’s dead.”
“Oh… That… sounds intense,” OJ glanced away, and as much as he wanted to go up and help he was glad he didn’t. He probably would’ve been killed if he had gone.
“I’m just kinda angry that I let that thing get the better of me. This could’ve been avoided if I had just…” He trailed off, shutting himself up. The cycle of blame was not helpful, and he knew that, so he wasn’t going to say anything self-negative. As much as he wanted to. He just let out a sigh.
“We should probably go out to the main room, or check on Taco soon.”
“... Yeah.”
“Are… You going to kick her out?”
“Huh?”
“Taco, are you kicking her out of the hotel?”
“I um… All of me is saying yes, but I feel like I’d feel guilty if I did.”
Knife sighed. “Yeah, I get that, but she’s clearly never going to change.”
“She wanted to help make up for all of this.”
“And? Look where that got her.”
“You’re really mad at her, huh.”
“Yeah, for a lot of reasons.” Knife huffed, his eyebrows furrowing in annoyance.
“I’ll… Give it some serious thought, okay?”
“Okay.” Knife couldn’t help but let out an amused huff. OJ had really grown to be a lot more forgiving over time, huh. He was sure if this had happened any number of years ago, Taco would’ve been either long gone, or he wouldn’t have hesitated with kicking her out. It’s funny really, knowing exactly why he was like that now.
“What?” OJ raised an eyebrow.
“Nothing, nothing. Don’t worry about it.” Knife got up, still just a bit dizzy, but he shook it off, turning towards the door;
“I think I’ve had enough time sitting here. Let’s go check on the others.”
“Yeah, okay.” OJ got up too, both of them heading out.

This was when 4S returned with MePad, the box of components held carefully in his arms, the glitching on his screen flickering a bit. Knife moved over, taking the box from him, and hauling it over to the table MePhone was on.
“I’ll go get TestTube,” OJ stepped over to the other hallway in the lab, heading to the room she and Taco were in.
MePad shuffled in place, before speaking; “I am going to head back to the hotel, to inform Toilet on what’s been going on so he doesn’t get worried about where I’ve been, please let me know when MePhone is optimal again?”
“Yeah, okay.” Knife would nod towards the tablet, as he teleported away, leaving Knife, and 4S in the main room now.
4S glanced over at Knife, remaining silent.
“Are you okay?” Knife raised an eyebrow, glancing back at the phone.
“Yes. There was nothing else up there. Just me, thankfully. I’m sorry I failed to protect y--”
“Hey, shut up. No apologies needed.”
4S’s mouth formed into a thin line at that.
“We really gotta get your screen fixed, I can see you glaring at me.” Knife let out a half-hearted chuckle. 4S just rolled his eyes, glancing away.
“Yes, but first, we get her to fix him. He’s much more important.”
“Don’t phrase it like that, dude,” Knife frowned.
“I--” 4S shut himself up, knowing if he continued, he’d have to have a long, awkward, emotional conversation about his feelings towards himself with Knife, and he didn’t feel like that was something he wanted to do today.
Maybe tomorrow. He still had to talk to Knife about his feelings of admiration for him… But that was also a task for later. Yeah.

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Everything was extremely cold, and extremely uncomfortable. Despite sitting completely still-- other than the trembling, he felt like he was being passed around… Re-organized, if that even made any sense, and it wasn’t a good feeling. It made him feel nauseous, really. He still just wanted to wake up. Despite trying to give in, and take a nap earlier-- as much as he craved the sensation of sleep, still being exhausted, and cold, he couldn’t. He had been stuck awake this entire time, sitting hopelessly against the wall with his knees held close to his core.
He hated all of this.
None of this was helped by the faint feeling like he wasn’t going to last much longer here. He wondered if; ‘fading’ would’ve been the right term for it. He didn’t think it mattered, anyways. Other than these new, small, different feelings, this nauseousness, and sick feeling, nothing had changed. Nothing was changing.
He wondered if anyone had actually found him. He wondered if he was still just a broken device in the middle of the woods.
He wondered how disappointed OJ would be in him if he just gave up now.
He was just so sleepy. So tired. So cold. He didn’t want to try anymore. There was little hope to be had, really, not even knowing if he had been found, but he knew if he gave up now, he figured he might never know. As unpleasant, and horrible as all of this felt, he didn’t want to put anyone through losing him. He knew neither OJ, nor 4S would be able to handle it. So despite these festering negative emotions, and feelings, despite just wanting to give up, he just couldn’t. He didn’t want to be that selfish. He didn’t want anyone to be disappointed in him for giving up.

…

“Let's see…” TestTube shuffled through the box of components, carefully lining everything in there up with the old, broken ones to double check that she had everything;
“This might… Take a few hours. Thankfully, I’ve had a spare durable screen lying around because, well, you never know what’s going to happen, so I won’t have to engineer a new one for this, meaning I just have to get these components in, and make sure he’s in working order, and he should be good to go.” TestTube gave a grin, and thumbs-up to OJ, and 4S, who were still in the room with her. Knife had volunteered to keep an eye on Taco, to make sure if she woke up, that he’d fill her in on what happened, and to make sure she wouldn’t accidentally crumble her shell any further.

“Okay, just um, let us know if we need to, or can do anything to help? I uh… Yeah.” OJ offered, sitting patiently in a stool, a lasting worried expression on his face. Most of the emotional daze from earlier had worn off, leaving him just feeling generally worried, the lingering upset at all of this feeling much less intense than it had been when he had woken up, just hoping things would be fine in a few hours. 4S, sitting in a different stool in the room, was completely still, and unmoving, other than the faint trembling. He was terrified, internally, though his expression did not betray him, remaining as neutral as it usually was. He and OJ watched from a distance-- across the room in their stools, as TestTube got to work. There wasn’t much conversation between the three, other than TestTube occasionally asking one of them to go to the work-room to grab a specific tool for her. At some point, MePad came by briefly, filling them in on what was going on at the hotel-- nothing much, really, just a lingering worry from everyone, really, the tension thick in the air up in that building at the weight of this situation, but it would be fine. OJ would be able to sleep in his bed tonight, with his partner, not having to worry about holding a pillow, instead of being able to wrap his arms around the phone, talking about all sorts of random, silly things, before they’d fall asleep later. OJ smiled fondly at the thought, placing a hand on his cheek. He was excited about that. He wanted to hug MePhone again so badly. To let him know it was okay. To let him know he wasn’t going to let anything like this happen ever again.

Hours had passed, and TestTube finally let out an exasperated huff, stepping back. OJ looked up, snapping out of his distracted thoughts, looking expectantly at TestTube.
“I just have to put the screen on now, and he should be okay.” She glanced back at the two, giving a thumbs-up;
“Just gotta grab the screen from the testing room is all, and we can get it over with, and move on from all this.” TestTube moved to retrieve it.
“Thank Gods…” OJ sighed, excited to leave all of this stress behind. 4S was also relieved. All of this seemed to be going smoothly, at least, beside the initial retrieval of the components, but things would be fine. They had to be, otherwise 4S didn’t… He didn’t know what he’d do if his brother didn’t wake up.
Well, if worse came to worst, he’d… No, it wasn’t time to think like that. Things would be fine.
TestTube had an incredibly tired smile on her face as she returned, the screen itself tucked under her arm. She placed it carefully, using one of the many tools on the table to secure it to the frame, making sure it wouldn’t just pop off or anything, before stepping back for good, dusting off her hands, and glancing to the other two;
“Who wants to do the honors?”

4S made no move, knowing with how things turned out, he was sure he was the last thing MePhone would want to see as soon as he woke up again, looking at OJ, who glanced at him back, unsure. But OJ slid out of the stool, stepping over.
“Right, I guess his start-up screen might take a while, so let's get this over with, right?”
“Yeah.”
OJ gave a weary smile of his own, pressing down the power button. MePhone’s screen flickered to life, the start-up sound playing, 4S cringing a bit at the noise, but not saying anything. The loading screen lasted for a few seconds, before his screen flickered back off.
“Um, wh… Why isn’t he…” OJ could feel his heart drop all over again, TestTube stepping back over now.
“That… wasn’t supposed to happen.” TestTube’s tone dropped, looking over the phone. “I- I did everything right, I know I did, try it again?” She suggested, almost scared.
OJ complied, immediately pressing down on the power button a second time. The start-up didn’t even play this time, his screen not flickering to life.
“Wh… MePhone? Hey, buddy? Please?” OJ called out to him, as if MePhone could even hear him in this state, much like he had when he and the others had found him in the woods almost two days prior now. His voice wasn't desperate yet, but it was getting there. He kept pressing down, nothing happening at all, before TestTube lightly pulled him away.
“Look, I’ll um, I- I’ll make sure I didn’t do anything wrong-- and if I did, I’ll fix it right away. If this was my bad, I’m sorry, but let me check, okay?”
“Y- yeah, okay,” OJ couldn’t help the trembling in his voice. He turned to go sit back down in his stool to let TestTube figure out what went wrong, only to notice that 4S was completely gone;
“Um,” He turned back towards TestTube, who glanced back, in the middle of carefully prying the screen back off; “huh?”
“4S is gone.”
TestTube’s face paled, the frown on her face growing deeper, realizing what this meant;
“Go get Knife to find him-- right now.” She said, OJ nodding, and rushing into the other room. This couldn’t be good.

…

The moment he realized MePhone wasn’t going to turn on, he bolted. It was easy, considering none of the focus was on him. He wasn’t going to let this happen. He wasn’t going to rip MePhone away from his life again, after everything he had been through, after all the trauma, and pain 4S, and others had put him through, well, he didn’t deserve any of this. MePhone deserved to be alive, and happy. That’s why he had to do this. His feelings for Knife, the bonds he had created with others-- despite not interacting much with them-- maybe for the better at this point, if he was truly decided on this, didn’t matter anymore.
They could learn to cope without him, he knew that. They had all lived 12, long years without him anyways. It wasn’t like he’d be missed for long once he did this. He sprinted to the hotel, not giving a second look back to the direction of the lab. He just needed to find someone willing enough to do this for him-- or someone who simply wouldn’t care. He knew exactly who, too. He stormed up the stairs, to where Paintbrush’s room was-- going right past it to the next room, knocking on the door forcefully. He could hear an annoyed groan in the next room, then the shuffle of footsteps, before the door clicked open;
“What the hell do you want? Could you not knock that hard? Tissues is trying to sleep, and--” Trophy trailed off, growing immediately nervous at the fact 4S was standing outside his door. He moved to shut the door, but 4S moved his foot in the path, before grabbing Trophy’s arm, yanking him out into the hallway.
“What the hell man! I- I didn’t even do anything this time!” Trophy backed away, against one of the hallway walls, incredibly freaked out by the way 4S’s screen glitched.
“No, you haven’t I just-- I need you to do something for me.” 4S frowned, a large amount of guilt creeping into his systems that he was about to put his brother through this again-- but he had to. He’d understand. He knew he would.
“Oh so now, after all the--”
“Shut up.”
“Okay.” Trophy raised his hands up defensively, not looking to get punched again.
“Listen, I need you to-- to slide this.” 4S turned away briefly, trembling as he pulled up the screen. He was doing this. He had to. He was awful, and evil, and did nothing but hurt everyone. He wasn’t improving much at all, and it wasn’t worth keeping him around when MePhone was much more deserving of this life that he tore away from him. He turned back around to face Trophy, the slider visible now.
“Um… Why can’t you do this yourself? Or get someone who actually cares to do it?” Trophy asked, uneasy with the situation. This was weird.
“Don’t ask any questions, just do it.” 4S snapped, Trophy flinching a bit; “Gods, fine, just stop yelling! I don’t want to wake Tissues up.” He grumbled, moving his hand towards the slider.

Before Trophy’s hand reached the screen, There was the sound of quick, heavy footsteps, before arms wrapped around 4S, yanking him away from the reach. Trophy held his hands up defensively, before ducking back into his room, closing the door rather quickly, but not slamming it. 4S struggled against the grasp, elbowing away whoever it was, before whipping around to face-- Knife, who was huffing, as if he had run all the way here, which, well, he did.
“What the hell?” Knife glared at 4S, a hint of him being upset apparent in his eyes.
“I should be saying that to you! Why did you stop me!” 4S glared back, furious.
“I- I’m not losing you. We aren’t going to lose you over this. TestTube is going to fix him, just-- just give it time, please.”
“And what if she doesn’t?! What if he’s just never coming back, and it’s all my fault! What if TestTube can’t fix him!? I have to bring him back. I can’t-- I can’t let this be my fault again.” 4S stumbled back a bit, incredibly upset, and emotional now, as he gripped the top of his frame.
“It isn’t your fault! None of this was your fault, just… Just don’t do anything impulsive. Come back down to the lab, and let’s give TestTube time to figure this out. Please.” Knife raised his arms up a bit, trying to reassure 4S. It didn’t work.
“Why do you even care!? You’ve been stuck with me for the past month or so, and I’m sure all I’ve been has been an annoyance. I know it’d be better for you, and everyone else if I were gone, anyways!” 4S backed away even more, fuelled by his desperation to do this. He had to. If he could downgrade himself, hell, he would’ve done it already down in the lab, but he needed someone else to do it. The curses of being based off of Meeple technology. He felt ill.
“I care, because I love you! I care about you, okay!?” Knife yelled, clenching his fists for a moment, before realizing exactly what he had said, slapping his hands over his mouth, both of them staring at each other in shock for just a moment. 4S sneered, lowering his hands away from his frame, before shoving past Knife, towards the stairs. Shit, he had to get away. He couldn’t let anyone care about him anymore, not when he had to do this, he didn’t want to hurt Knife, too. He-- he didn’t make it down to the first floor, merely making it back down one flight of stairs, before his legs wobbled, and he fell to his knees, stifling sobs. He felt so weak-- so frustrated. He had to do this, he had to make up for every shitty thing he had done to hurt everyone around him. He didn’t want his brother to die for his mistakes-- he… He didn’t want to be here anymore.

4S heaved through sobs, taking off his sunglasses, and moving his hands over his eyes as he desperately tried to wipe away his frustration tears. He always hated being this emotional. He knew it was natural, a part of living to have reactions to things like this, but he hated it. He hated feeling so vulnerable, when everything felt like it was crashing down around him. He was always supposed to be the strong one-- so what does that say about him when he breaks down. When he can’t help all the emotion he feels that ends up flowing out through the cracks. He hated constantly wishing that Cobs had just never given him the capability to feel. To wish that he didn’t have to deal with this pain, or any of these emotions. As he sobbed, and heaved, much like a while prior, he felt comforting arms wrap around him, holding him close, and carefully, as he cried. This time though, he opened his eyes, seeing through the blur the tears put on his vision, that Knife was there.
Knife was there for him, and he wasn’t letting go. He wasn’t letting 4S throw away his life. Not like this. Not again. Not when so many objects cared about him.

…

TestTube groaned, frustratedly punching the table beside the unconscious, un-operational MePhone. She was annoyed. She had checked everything twice-- now a third time, and he still wasn’t turning on. She had done everything right, and nothing was working. She was starting to get upset, really. She KNOWS she did everything right. She knows he should be operational, and turning on without any problems, but he just isn’t, and she refuses to be at blame if this doesn’t work. She refuses to just not let this work, actually. She doesn’t care about the blame anymore, really. She just wants MePhone to be okay, for his sake, and for everyone else’s.
OJ sat on the stool still, trembling with fear at the possibility, and reality that this just wasn’t working. He felt like he was on the verge of tears again. He had felt like that a lot lately, hadn’t he. He didn’t like feeling this negative. He was always so calm, and sure, a little tired, and overworked a lot, but calm was usually the vibe he gave off. Now, it was all nervousness, and terror, as all he could do was wait, and listen as TestTube grumbled to herself, working away at this.
“Come on… Please just work already.” She pressed down on the power button. This had been the seventh time she had pressed it. This time, she kept it held down, hoping maybe that would do something. It didn’t.
“I… He’s… He can’t just be… Gone, right?” OJ didn’t even mean to suggest that, the words not hitting him, until they actually came out. In the shock, he slowly moved a hand up to his mouth, his eyes widening. He didn’t… Why did he say that? TestTube glanced back at him, an incredibly stressed, and worried expression on her face, as OJ finally started silently crying, the tears making their way down his glass body.
“I-- Surely not. I’ve done everything right. He… He’s going to be fine, OJ.” TestTube let out a desperate, nervous laugh, trying to de-escalate the panic, as his breath hitched, his crying becoming more vocal in the moment, slowly turning into weeping as he wrapped his hands around himself. TestTube looked away, shutting her eyes, and trying to shut out the noise of him crying as she looked down at MePhone.
“Please, just work, we-- he… He needs you,” And she tried again.

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.
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Tired. Cold. More of the same. It was always the same for him. Ever since the light had faded, since he had been stripped of the hallway entirely, he had just been teetering on the edge of giving up completely. It was so tiring just staying awake-- even if he hadn’t been able to fall asleep earlier, as each moment passed-- it still felt like an eternity-- it just felt harder and harder to stay awake, unmoving in this small box of a room. He trembled. Freezing, very cold. More of the same. Tired, unhappy. Like always. His breath hitched, even though he couldn’t feel his own breathing, he couldn’t help but do that sometimes. He didn’t know if it was because he was crying, or if the temperature was messing with his systems. Either way, he didn’t feel it. He figures he’d have to have cried at least once or twice while stuck here, but he wouldn’t know. He hated this. He didn’t want to fade here. Out of frustration-- maybe a burst of energy, he stood up, furious. He slammed his fists against the only wall of this cube that he could feel, yelling as loud as he could-- despite no sound coming out, not feeling as he wore out his throat, trying so, so hard. He wanted out-- he needed out. He needed to be seen, and held, and heard, and felt. He needed everything, all of it. He needed to be loved, and he needed to wake up-- Gods, he just needed to WAKE UP--

And a comforting bit of warmth washed over him. He couldn’t see anything now, not even his own hands, not even the hallway, the gray walls he had grown used to, not the comforting purple light he had aspired so hard to reach-- just pitch black. This was when his thoughts went blank.

…

“You know I can hear you, right?”
MePhone snickered, hiding under his bed.
“Nuh-uh,” He called out, hearing his brother let out an amused huff;
“Wow, I sure wonder where, in this small, confined room, that MePhone4 could’ve gone. Maybe… the cabinet?!” He listened as 4S started rapidly opening cabinets.
“Hmm… Maybe you’re… On the ceiling!?” There was a complete pause. He heard the faint, soft footsteps of his brother stepping closer to the mattress. MePhone couldn’t help but giggle.
“Or maybe…” And suddenly, light filled his vision, MePhone letting out a fake, non-threatened scream, as 4S lifted the mattress up, grinning at MePhone, who had been found.
“FOUND YOU!”
“Nooo!!! Tell me that was at least a new record!? Did I beat your time for hiding?”
“Hm… Let me think,” 4S grinned, mischievously, before letting go of the mattress, letting it flop back down onto MePhone, who let out a small grunt, before crawling out from under it; “Hey!”
“Not even close, Blue.” 4S stuck his tongue out.
“Oh come on! You’re lying, aren’t you.”
“Nope! You took ten minutes to find me hiding outside the door, so you weren’t even close.”
“How does that one even count! You were hiding outside the room!”
“Yeah, thinking outside the box. That’s how you win.” 4S grinned.
“No fair. You win at every game we play.” MePhone frowned, dusting himself off, as he stood.
“Yeah, but that’s just because I’m better.” 4S stuck his tongue out again.
“No you aren’t! You’re just um…” MePhone glanced away, unable to think of a quip at this moment.
“Hey, it’s okay, Blue, I’m sure you’ll win one of these eventually.”
“Fine, I guess you--” MePhone shut his mouth, his posture immediately straightening out as the door to the room slid open, 4S turning, and doing the same, as Cobs walked into the room, holding his signature clipboard.
“Hello sir,”
“Yes, yes. Hello, no time for this. Come on, we have tasks that need to be done.” Cobs didn’t so much as glance at the two, before turning, expecting, and knowing they’d follow as he left. Despite the fun they had that morning, before he had arrived, the following day had been filled with boring, unpleasant tasks. MePhone didn’t like remembering that part. So he chose not to, knowing how the following few days went. That had been one of the last positive interactions he had with 4S before leaving Meeple, only a week later, after seeing what was in that closet.
Sometimes, he wished he had never been that nosey, but he was still so glad things turned out the way they did-- despite all the guilt had lingered, knowing he wouldn’t be around anymore if he hadn’t. Even if he was barely anywhere, anymore. It was no use thinking about it now. He didn’t even know where he was right now. It wasn’t cold, and he couldn’t feel anything. He was weightless again-- if not just for a moment, before everything clicked back into place.

…

Knife, and 4S returned to the lab, just in time to watch the start-up screen load, a blue screen flickering to life, as his limbs shifted a bit, MePhone raising a hand to feel at his screen-- his face, blinking a few times.
“Ugh… what the hell--” He shut himself up, everyone pausing to immediately look at him-- if they hadn't already been, as his voice glitched, using that same voice he used in early season one. Oops. He kept his mouth shut, incredibly embarrassed as he sat up, turning away from everyone for a second as he swiped through his settings-- fixing his voice. He cleared his throat;
“Um, sorry,” He let out meekly, before turning back to everyone, immediately uncomfortable with everyone staring at him; “Gods, I know that voiced sucked, but was it that-- Ouff” he was cut off as OJ quickly stepped over, leaning over the table to hug him, tightly, but still gently. MePhone hugged him back, nuzzling into the real feeling of his partner. The positioning was a bit awkward, considering he was still on the table, but the two of them made it work.
“Thank the Gods, you weren’t turning on” TestTube turned away, incredibly relieved as she put a hand to her head; “While you guys have a moment, I’m going to go check on Taco, okay?”
“Yeah, okay.” Knife would nod, before slightly nudging 4S. “Told you he’d be fine.” He whispered, though not maliciously. 4S just elbowed him back, not stepping over to his brother yet. He was still scared to face him, after causing this whole mess, after all.
“I uh… I guess I’m fine now?” MePhone shrugged, not bringing up how he had basically spent the past few days in a horrible mind hallway. He’d talk to Candle about that next time she was available. Probably. Maybe. Probably not, actually. He’d be fine.

“I- I’m so glad you’re here,” OJ’s voice wavered a bit, MePhone filling a twinge of guilt, before swinging his legs off the side of the table as OJ pulled away, the two separating. They’d hug again later. Probably cuddle, or something.
“Yeah, me too.” MePhone smiled a soft smile, just trying to ignore everything that had happened in the moment, before glancing up at Knife, and 4S. MePhone frowned, before quickly glancing away.
4S shuffled in his spot, before turning away.
“I will be in the television room.” 4S spoke, before quickly making his way out.
MePhone wasn’t angry at him, barely even upset, really, it just… He didn’t know how to feel, really. He hopped off the table, wobbling a bit, before OJ helped him figure out his balance again.
“Um… How long was I out…?” He almost didn’t want to know.
“I think it’s been like three days.”
“Oh… Um, did anyone…?” MePhone asked, even more worried at the possibility;
“Nope. Um, well actually Taco was injured, but--”
“She’s gone.” MePhone, and OJ both jolted as TestTube stepped out, an annoyed, tired expression on her face as she held a letter in her hands.
“I didn’t even see, or hear her leave, but she’s gone.” She placed the unopened envelope on the table in the room, now working on cleaning the rest of it off, placing all the old, broken components into the box to throw away, or do whatever with at a later time.
“Of course.” OJ frowned.
“I’m gonna uh… Check on 4S.” Knife gestured towards the hallway, before heading over.
It was silent in the room for a while, none of them bothering to move to read the letter. TestTube wordlessly moved over to her monitor.
“Thanks… For um, not giving up on me,” MePhone spoke, his tone quiet. He nuzzled into OJ a bit.
“Of course.” OJ was so relieved MePhone was okay now. He was so relieved this was finally over, and that MePhone wasn’t going to slip out of his hands anymore. OJ couldn’t stifle a yawn.
“Hey, how about we go back to the hotel?” MePhone suggested.
“Yeah… Uh… Probably gotta go let everyone know you’re okay-- do you need to talk to 4S or anything?”
“Yeah, but um… Maybe later. Okay? I will do it, I promise.” MePhone glanced away. He didn’t want to feel this way towards his brother, but he couldn’t help it.
“Hey, can you two send Fan down when you get there?” TestTube asked, fiddling with her hands, now that she didn’t have a task to idle her time with.
“Yeah, sure. Let’s uh… Go back to the hotel, and do that.” OJ was finally growing sleepy again, ready to totally pass out with his partner this time. Now he was right, about not having to worry about sleeping another night in a mostly empty bed.
“Let's… Go home and cuddle or something… That sounds nice, right?” OJ said, as the two were making their exit, the door to the staircase shutting slowly behind them as they made it up.
“Yeah, that does sound nice.” MePhone smiled. He could think about all the implications of that hallway-- and worry about talking to 4S about all of this later. For now though, he just wanted to take a nice, real feeling nap. He knew he could finally let himself fall asleep this time, and be safe.

Chapter Text

4S sits on the couch in the television room festering. The expression MePhone had taken up when the two briefly shared eye-contact had not been a good one, and… Well, why would it have been. Surely he hated him now. He caused this whole mess, after all. He was the one who wanted to go back up there, and for what. Closure? He didn’t even get that out of this situation. It hurt. Even if MePhone didn’t hate him now-- knowing if he did, MePhone would never outright tell him. He was sure if it wasn’t hatred though, MePhone was surely scared of him now. That would be even worse, really, but honestly 4S would feel like he deserved it, anyways. He meant what he thought earlier. How he was evil, and awful, and horrible.
He sat on the couch, his hands pressed to his screen, over his eyes, and sunglasses, as he didn’t bother to stop these thoughts. He deserved this. He deserved to be hated, and to hate himself. He--
He didn’t have time to think much else on it, as the door to the room opened. He quickly moved his hands away from his face, glancing away from whoever it was, barely seeing it was just Knife that entered, carefully closing the door behind him. He moved over, the weight on the couch shifting a bit as he sat at the other end of it.
It was completely silent right now, before Knife grabbed the remote, flicking on the television.
“... what?”
“Background noise, until you feel okay enough to talk.”
“Oh.” 4S’s gaze fell to the floor.
“No rush, by the way, just thought it might be nicer than the silence.”
“Thanks…” He muttered, his voice growing quiet. He hated difficult conversations. He didn’t understand why everything was so hard all the time. He didn’t understand why he had to be like this. His constant frown deepened, as he tried to shake away these thoughts, shutting his eyes tight, and focusing on the faint audio from the television, hoping that would be enough to distract him. He didn’t open his eyes, just listening, and calming himself down a bit.
He didn’t mean what he was thinking about himself earlier. He didn’t hate himself.
Well, he didn’t want to hate himself. He opened his eyes, focusing on the show for a few moments. Funny enough, Knife had managed to find a hello kitty cartoon. Something to really catch his interest, and something he may actually find comfort in. Cartoons of all things? It felt childish, really, but he pushed that thought down, at least focusing on the episode he was watching. It seemed to be the characters of the franchise going through what seemed like a fairy tale parody. It was silly, a bit stupid, really, but not in a bad way, just enough to completely distract him from his self-negative thoughts. The episode ended, and Knife glanced over.
“I meant what I said, by the way,”
“You’ve said a lot of things. Be specific.” 4S couldn’t meet his gaze, knowing exactly what the utensil meant.
“In the hallway.”
“You don’t want to be direct, do you.”
“No, not really.” Knife glanced away now, leaning on the armrest on his side of the couch.
“I guess I understand which thing you’re… Probably talking about. I… Don’t know if this is a good time for me to be discussing this, though.”
“Yeah, I know. I just want you to know I care, and-- um… I’m here for you. I’m not going anywhere.”
“I understand.”
It was silent for a few moments, before 4S spoke.
“I don’t think he should forgive me.”
“You… don’t think he should? Or did you mean will?”
“I mean should. I don’t deserve his kindness anymore.” 4S crossed his arms, lightly gripping the sides of them for comfort. If he weren’t so stuck in place, he’d go grab his plushie-- remembering it’s still probably in that other room, but he didn’t have it in him to move right now. “I know he’s going to forgive me. We’ll have a long talk about what happened, going through it again and figuring out how to cope, and I’m going to say sorry, and he’s going to say it’s okay, but it’s not.”
4S frowned.
“It’s not okay. I don’t care if I couldn’t grasp what I was doing, that I couldn’t realize. It was still wrong, and horrible, and evil. Just like I am.”
“Well I don’t think someone horrible and evil would be feeling bad about something like this.” Knife responded, not missing a beat.
“... what.”
“You clearly regret this, right?”
“Yes.”
“There it is. You know what happened was messed up, and that it needs to be repaired-- or at least, there needs to be an effort to repair it, so you’re going to make that effort. You’re going to try, even if you feel like you shouldn’t be forgiven, because you know that’s the right thing.” Knife paused, leaning over to put a hand on the phone’s shoulder;
4S was silent. He closed his eyes again, just briefly, as he took a deep breath, in, and out. Opening his eyes, he glanced up at Knife, before speaking;
“I Love you too.”

.
.
.

It was snowing when MePhone and OJ left the lab. This caught both of them off guard, really, as MePhone scrambled to generate an umbrella for the two of them, not wanting to get water damaged JUST after waking up again, and for OJ not to get diluted by enough of the snow falling into his cup. It was really winter now, wasn’t it. It was also evening now. The plan was to get dinner, something for OJ at least, as he had very little to eat since this had all happened, and then to fall asleep together. OJ was tired, exhausted, really, but still functioning fine enough. Living as a hotel manager with bad sleeping habits all the time did that to a person, anyways. The two walked into the hotel, shuddering from the cold weather as MePhone closed the umbrella, putting it in an umbrella holder by the door-- that being there for this, and rain related specifics. All eyes were on the two of them as the door shut, despite how casually they had entered.

Paper walked up to them both first, having peeked out from the kitchen after hearing the hotel doors open and close, wondering if OJ was returning from another bad day-- only to be for once, pleasantly surprised by the sight of MePhone. Paper had never been fond of MePhone, for obvious reasons, but he had never wanted the phone dead, a lot less so once he and OJ became an item. It was nice to see he was alive and well.

“Oh, I’m so glad everything worked out, are you both alright? I noticed the snow,”
“Yeah, thanks for the concern, it’s all good now, just chilly.” OJ still shuddered a bit.
“Here, I’ll grab you a blanket from the room,” MePhone smiled softly, doing a damn good job at ignoring everything that had happened for once, just trying so hard not to think about it, or talk about it. At least not tonight. He could deal with it tomorrow, but for now, he just wanted to have a nice night with his boyfriend. He just wanted one normal evening, free from any of his stress, after being nothing but stressed for so long. Things were fine now, anyways. It wasn’t like he had anything to talk about with anyone, anyways.

MePhone made his way to the room, grabbing the spare blanket he had generated the night of the party, bringing it out to his boyfriend, leaning in close, as he draped it around the cup, a loving grin on his face as he did so. OJ smiled back, finally no worry in his expression, just a bit of tiredness.
“What’s uh… for dinner tonight?” OJ raised an eyebrow, glancing at Paper.
“Oh! It’s actually almost done, why don’t you come in and see for yourself?” Paper smiled, leading OJ away into the kitchen. MePhone huffed, amused, as he didn’t follow, letting OJ have some time for himself. That’s when he noticed the feeling of being watched-- immediately finding its source, seeing Fan staring at him from the couch. He half-heartedly rolled his eyes, before speaking; “I’m fine, Fan. Don’t worry about it. That, and TestTube wants to see you. Just letting you know.” He waved his hand, almost dismissively, as he moved over to peek into the kitchen now, catching OJ’s attention, who had a bowl in his hands-- the meal of today seeming to be some kind of soup.
“I’m gonna go to our room, okay?”
“Yeah, okay, I’ll be in soon, just gotta let everyone know you’re back and okay,”
MePhone gave a thumbs-up, before ducking out of the room, heading into the hallway. He could use some rest.

…

It was about five minutes of MePhone tossing around in bed, uncomfortable with the complete darkness of the room. It reminded him far too much of the hallway. Of the cold, cold hallway, the fact it was winter, and the temperature in the room was low, was not helping. He groaned, sitting up, sliding his brightness all the way up to combat the darkness in the room. He frowned. He felt like such a baby for feeling like this. He felt so annoying. even if nobody was there to see him like this, knowing he’d just feel even worse if OJ were in here with him while he was dealing with this. Annoying. Yeah. He didn’t like that. He also didn’t like the darkness. After some back and forth with his thoughts, he bit the bullet, generating something for himself, plugging it into the socket just beside his nightstand. A night light. He was sure OJ would ask about this, but the discomfort of the dark outweighed the dread he felt about having the eventual conversation.

The light the little thing gave off wasn’t too bright, but it was just enough, a white tint-- no actual color to it. It would be enough. MePhone huffed, noticing how messy his tossing and turning had made the blanket, opting to get up and fix it, yanking the covers off of the bed, to drape them back over. He also noticed his pillow being a bit out of place, fixing that, too. He sighed, putting his hands on his hips, before dulling his screen brightness again, and carefully getting into bed. He didn’t want to immediately ruin his hard work, after all. He’d have to ask OJ about the heating in the room at some point, nuzzling into the warmth of the blanket. It was nice, really. A lot nicer than the hallway, or the stiff, cold, metal table in the lab. This was much nicer. What would make it even better though, would be if--
The door clicked open, the light from the hallway peeking into the dark room, obscured a bit by OJ’s shadow, before hiding away completely as the door shut again, OJ letting out a small huff.
“Jeez it’s cold in here.” OJ mumbled to himself, noticing as MePhone sat up a bit in the bed, a weary smile on his face.
“Yeah, but we have plenty of blankets. And each other,” MePhone replied, even though OJ had been talking to himself.
“Yeah, you’re right. Speaking of which, I’d like to get warm.” OJ smiled too, draping the second blanket that was wrapped around him onto the bed, before getting under both of them, MePhone and OJ immediately adjusting to be holding each other.
“What’s with the light?”
“Oh, um… not particular to the dark.”
“That’s new,”
“Uh… yeah, I guess,” MePhone glanced away.
“Is… there a reason why?”
“Not a reason I want to talk about,” MePhone frowned.
“Hey, that’s okay.” OJ softened his voice, noticing the frown. He nuzzled into MePhone a bit, enjoying the natural warmth his screen provided.
“We can talk about it later. Unless you don’t want to, then we don’t have to.”
“Thanks.” MePhone yawned, nuzzling closer, too.
It was silent for a while, MePhone getting closer and closer to just completely dozing off.
“Love you… So glad you’re back,” He heard OJ mumble. MePhone’s eyes opened at this, the sleep fading away at this. He didn’t know why this, of all things, was what got to him, but it did, as his breath hitched. OJ, despite almost having fallen asleep himself, noticed this, cracking open one of his eyes, to see MePhone was softly crying.
“O- oh, did I do something wrong?” OJ asked, frowning, as he attempted to pull away a bit, wanting to get a better look at the phone, but MePhone just replied by pulling him in closer, sniffling a bit;
“No… ’m sorry,” MePhone mustered out. Why… was he apologizing?
“Why are you sorry?” OJ whispered out, both of their tones hushed.
“I- I dunno, everything?”
“Wh… what?”
“All of this, me, these problems-- I…” MePhone shut himself up, shutting his eyes tight. Why did he have to be getting emotional now? He was so close to falling asleep not even five minutes ago, and now here he was, keeping OJ awake with him, because he couldn’t just deal with things himself. Annoying. He was so annoying, wasn’t he? He hadn’t felt like this in such a long time, but here this feeling was, surfacing again. He didn’t like this one bit.
“You have nothing to be sorry for, none of this was your fault. None of us even knew this could have, or was going to happen. Everything’s fine, and okay now. I promise.” OJ soothed, moving his hands to slide up and down on MePhone’s back. He shuddered a bit as he cried, but he so very much appreciated the touch, the hold. Everything about this. Everything about OJ.

His crying soothed eventually. The two shared no words the rest of the night, merely just comfort, as the both of them eventually found themselves finally asleep for the night, exhaustion slipping away for rest.

.
.
.

4S and Knife returned to the hotel about an hour after OJ and MePhone had. Knife had made sure to remember not to leave the plushie in that room, grabbing it for 4S before the two of them had left.
All eyes in the lobby, once they entered, were on the two of them. Or, more specifically, all eyes were on 4S. See, the rumors about what happened had spread around the hotel like wildfire, and nobody knew if he was still volatile. He hated all the silent attention, not paying mind to anyone as he kept his gaze low, ignoring the fuzzy feeling in his screen, and everyone else in the room, as he made his way to the stairwell, wanting to go up to his room. Knife stayed behind, raising an eyebrow at the few objects who quickly went back to whatever they were doing at the TV. It was Bomb, Balloon and suitcase, watching some sort of show that Knife didn’t care to pay enough attention to as he walked past, immediately being stopped by Paper as he passed the kitchen;
“Hey, um, Knife? Can we discuss… what happened?”
Knife raised an eyebrow, before shrugging, and stepping into the kitchen.
“What?” He leaned on a counter.
“Well I just… Um, need to know that 4S isn’t… y’know. I’d rather not be assaulted again, you know?” Paper shrugged, an incredibly anxious aura surrounding the sheet.
“Yeah, he’s fine now. Don’t worry about it.” Knife rolled his eyes. It’s gonna take a while for everyone to get used to him again, huh. How annoying.
“Okay, well I just wanted to make sure.”
“I get it. Whatever.” Knife just headed out without another word, wanting to go back to his room now. He’d be social and explain stuff tomorrow. Tonight though, he needed some sleep. He made his way up the stairs into his and 4S’s room, letting out a yawn as he shut the door behind him. So 4S liked him back, huh. The two of them had just left it at that, opting to not really discuss it much, knowing neither of them were emotionally available enough to figure out what that meant for the two of them, so they agreed to talk about it… Tomorrow? Maybe. Sometime soon, at least.
Knife flopped onto his bed, yanking the covers over himself. Yeah. He could sleep.

.
.
.

Taco trudged through the woods, one hand placed on the space of her where half of her shell used to be. Yeah, she could have stuck around, explained everything, and probably gotten fixed up or something, but she didn’t deserve that. She needed to leave. She left a letter, of course she left a letter, slinking out of the lab while everyone was focused on MePhone booting back up. It was dark tonight, and cold. Very cold, the snow falling through the leaves onto the ground, onto her, as she slumped down against her so familiar log. She’d leave tomorrow. She was so tired now. Whatever fate met her now, after all she had done, she was sure it was deserved. She didn’t even think she’d mind if she ended up dead without revival. She was sure everyone would know of her betrayal soon enough, she knew how fast word spread around the hotel. She knew even if OJ didn’t directly kick her out, she wouldn’t be welcomed there. This was her fault. Her grave. She might as well lay in it.

…

“So what, she just… Ran off?”
“Yeah. Good riddance, really.” TestTube scoffed. She knew how heartless that seemed, but it was deserved. After causing all this mess, this strife, tricking her in the first place, and making HER look like the bad one here. Yeah, TestTube wasn’t denying she had messed up, but ultimately it wouldn’t have happened if Taco hadn’t approached her.
TestTube took a deep breath, calming her annoyance down a bit.
“How were things at the hotel?” TestTube mellowed out her resting expression before glancing at Fan, who was scrolling through his phone;
“Oh, uh, tense. Most objects were just taking everything slow and stuff, to make sure nobody got hurt, y’know, because none of them wanted to be the reason something bad happened.”
“Right, well, everything can go back to normal now.” TestTube took another deep breath.
“... Yeah,” Fan glanced away.
“Huh?”
“Yeah, sorry, I just… Um,” Fan fiddled with their hands. “It’s nothing! Really, just something new for me, but we can talk about it tomorrow, okay? I’m sure you’re really tired,” Fan let out an awkward chuckle, hopping off the counter they had been sitting on.
“Oh, okay, I… It’s not me, is it? I just wanna make sure that’s not why you’re--”
“OH! Oh, no oh my sorry that wasn’t my intent at all! Sorry, I promise I’ll talk to you about it tomorrow, I have to scurry back to the hotel before it gets too cold--”
“Oh, we could go back together, if you’d like? I don’t want to sleep another night in my lab.” TestTube let out a sheepish chuckle.
“Yeah! Sure.” Fan smiled, as TestTube took their hand, hopping off of her stool.
“Why don’t you tell me tonight-- um, unless it’s serious, or you aren’t ready, just curious is all.”
“Well, uh… I dunno, it’s just a big change is all,” Fan smiled, as the two walked out of the lab, hand in hand. It was snowing now, but thankfully most of it didn’t seem to be sticking, though TestTube was sure the two of them would wake up to a few feet of snow in the morning.
“Oh?”
“Yeah, um, I’ve been thinking about it for a while, and I wanted to start going by um…” Fan trailed off, her face heating up a bit, embarrassed that she couldn’t say this. Eventually, she let out a comically long sigh, before speaking up;
“I’m a girl,” She let out lamely, unable to think of another way of phrasing it. TestTube stopped in her tracks, this worrying Fan a bit, before she turned to face her, seeing the big, happy smile on the vial’s face. She pulled Fan into a hug.
“Oh that’s wonderful Fan, I’m glad you’re figuring yourself out, and I’m glad you’re comfortable enough to share this with me,” TestTube was overjoyed, really, glad things could just return to normal this nicely after everything. Also very glad Fan was happy enough to be herself. She loved her no matter what, anyways.
“Haha, thanks,” Fan let out a much less awkward laugh, glad to get this off of her chest. Her face was pretty warm the remainder of the two’s time returning to the hotel.

And though things may have returned to... Mostly normal for TestTube, it wasn’t that easy for everyone else.

Chapter Text

The next morning was… Well, it was a morning. MePhone woke up first, uncomfortably jolted out of his sleep by a reminder of that hallway, but… But he wasn’t going to let that ruin his day! He wasn’t there anymore, so no need to worry about it. This was his first normal day since the party, and he was going to enjoy it. He checked the time, noticing just how early it was. He then carefully got up, slipping out of OJ’s sleep hug, and heading over to the window, peeking through the blinds, and immediately squinting at how bright the snow stuck to the ground was. He quickly closed the curtain, not wanting the amount of light to disturb OJ from his surely much needed rest, glancing back as he could hear his boyfriend mumbling to himself in his sleep. It sounded peaceful. MePhone smiled fondly, just staring at him for a few moments, before deciding he just had to get on with things. He placed his hands on his hips, heading out of the room, to the couch. Surely there’d be something to kill the time, before any of the other residents--

MePhone paused, seeing someone already on the couch for the morning, despite the early hour, and the still dimmed hotel lights. Unfortunately, that object was Trophy. Obviously being one of the last objects he’d ever want to interact with, he just ignored the golden cup, slipping into the kitchen. He hadn’t eaten in a while, huh. Sure, he probably could’ve gotten himself anything to snack on, but of course, he found himself munching away at the cookies in the jar his… Brother got for him. MePhone glanced away, shoving away certain thoughts before he even had the chance to truly think them. That was for later, when he wasn’t so focused on having an at least OKAY day. Yeah. Though… Maybe he shouldn’t put something like this off. Maybe he should just talk to--

His train of thought was cut off as Trophy himself stepped into the kitchen, the two of them making brief, awkward eye-contact, before both of them glanced away, in different directions, as Trophy b-lined for the fridge, taking out a water bottle.
As he removed the lid, taking a swig from it, he kept his gaze away from the phone, speaking once he moved the bottle away.
“Hey, um… Sorry. About the shit I said.”
“Huh?” MePhone almost choked on his cookie, not having expected conversation, and certainly not this.
“You heard me. I said sorry. It’s whatever, but I guess the stuff I said to you wasn’t… Shit, man I’m bad at this, I shouldn’t have said what I said about you, or your brother.”
“Why… Are you apologizing now? Did OJ put you up to it again?”
“Gods, of course you’d think that. No, actually, for once I’m doing something like this on my own.” Trophy rolled his eyes, before stepping over towards the entry-way of the kitchen, pausing again. “Whatever.” He muttered under his breath.
Well that was… Weird, and not exactly a great apology, but… At least he bothered to do that. Despite how awkward it turned out. He watched as Trophy stepped out of the kitchen, listening at the soft thud of feet against carpet, figuring he was going back upstairs to his room. Yeah. That was weird.

.
.
.

Eventually, he made his way back to his and OJ’s room. Really thinking about it, he really didn’t feel like sitting out in the lobby just waiting at the mercy of interacting with whoever came downstairs first. Especially if it could’ve been as awkward as… Whatever had happened with Trophy earlier.
OJ was still sleeping, though right now he had his arms wrapped around himself, and was slightly curled in on himself. MePhone let out a soft sigh, walking over, to join his boyfriend back in bed. He figured sleeping in a little more would be fine, as he wrapped his arms around OJ again, nuzzling in close, before his screen dimmed.

…

4S woke up with a groan, his screen flickering on, the only light in an otherwise dark room. His screen still had that same fuzzy, uncomfortable feeling to it, and he was starting to get awfully sick of it. He sat up, before remembering he had a roommate-- quickly glancing over to see if his groan had woken the other up. Knife didn’t stir though, still very much asleep, thank the Gods.
He sighed softly, just staring at the blade for a moment, before shaking his head, and leaving the room. It was nearing noon soon, and he… Well, 4S didn’t know what he was going to do with his day, but he knew he needed to get someone to fix this fuzzy feeling in his screen. It wasn’t like this mental feeling, or a funk, or whatever, it was this physical discomfort. All of this time, he hadn’t seen his own reflection, only finally seeing himself as he went down to the lobby, seeing his reflection in the Television, which was currently off, as surprisingly nobody occupied the couch at the moment. 4S did a double take, walking over to examine his appearance. They said something was wrong with him, but this was not what he had expected. He had just thought it was that ‘override’ or whatever the vial had called it, and… Not this. Definitely not this. He moved a hand up to his screen, feeling the fuzzy, uncomfortable static feeling. It must’ve been caused by that burning feeling, he figured. How annoying. Honestly, for her own sake, he was glad Taco was gone, otherwise he might’ve had another violent outburst towards her. He remembers feeling so terrified in that moment, genuinely feeling like he was going to die.

He narrowed his eyes, annoyed at the thought, before the sound of someone clearing their throat filled the lobby. 4S snapped around, watching as Paintbrush jolted, definitely off-put by 4S’s appearance.
“Oh, uh… Just wanted to make sure you were good, you’ve been staring at the TV like that for the past three minutes, you… Do know it’s off, right?”
“Yes, I know it’s off. I was looking at myself.” 4S kept his eyes narrowed.
“Oh… Okay,” Paintbrush glanced away, not exactly intimidated, but certainly not comfortable with the situation either.
“Um… Anyways, are you going to want to do anger management this week? I know it’s been a bit… Um, hectic, from what I’ve heard, but… Just wanted to check in,” Paintbrush awkwardly rubbed their ‘neck’, still not making eye-contact. 4S hoped it wouldn’t be this awkward with everyone else who talked to him, too. This was awful.
“I think I’ll pass this week.” 4S crossed his arms, before moving over to flop down on the couch. He was going to wait for Knife to get up, he decided.
“Okay, see you around then, let me know if you change your mind,” Paintbrush gave a passing thumbs-up, before heading into the hallway, presumably towards the art room.
Yeah, that interaction sucked.

Eventually, and thankfully, just about thirty minutes later, Knife trudged down the stairs, into the lobby with a yawn, giving a nod to 4S to acknowledge his presence, before slipping into the kitchen to get something for breakfast. Or, well, it was closer to lunch time now. Maybe just a snack, probably.
Five minutes later, Knife joined 4S on the couch, a plate of toast in his hands.
"So… we should talk about things, right?"
Knife coughed, having been mid-bite into one of the pieces of toast, trying not to choke on it as he hadn't been expecting 4S to bring this up so soon. He quickly composed himself though;
"Uh, yeah, guess we should,"
"I… don't understand these feelings very well. What is the next step?"
"Well it's dependent on both of us, really. Yeah, we love each other, but do we want to be more than just friends?"
"... What do 'more than just friends' do?"
"Well, romantic gestures and stuff I guess? Hand holding? Um… hugging?"
"Haven't we already been doing these things?-- er, the huffing?"
"Well yeah, but in different circumstances." Knife pauses, taking another bite of his toast, before continuing;
"Stuff like cuddling, er… kissing? I dunno. I'm not really the biggest on romantic stuff, I just.. uh, it's hard to explain," he shrugged.
"What about titles?"
"Do you want me to be your boyfriend?"
"... Yes," 4S glanced away, almost embarrassed to answer, his screen growing a bit warmer.
"Okay, then what do you want me to refer to you as?"
"I… also don't mind the term 'boyfriend.' 4S's gaze fell to the carpet below the couch.
It was silent between the two for a few moments, as Knife ate his snack.
"I don't think I like the idea of kissing."
"Oh, me neither. We can avoid doing that then," knife stood up, moving to take his plate into the kitchen, 4S getting up too, to follow.
"What about other physical contact?"
"I… I'm not used to it yet, but I don't mind it, on small occasions. It's still something I need to… figure out."
"Understood. If you ever wanna hug, or cuddle, or whatever couples do, just lemme know." Knife shrugged, placing his plate into the sink.
"Okay." He paused for a moment, before continuing; "Unrelated, I need to get my screen fixed. This is incredibly uncomfortable." 4S finally brought it up, moving a hand to feel over the affected area.
"Jeez, right .. why didn't you bring up how uncomfortable it was earlier?"
"Other things seemed more important."
"You really gotta work on this self worth thing, dude." Knife frowned.
"... Okay."

The moment TestTube stepped down into the lobby from her room, 4S approached her.
"You."
"Me?" She pointed at herself, a bit nervous, before realizing what this was probably about.
"My screen. Why didn't you fix it before?"
"I-- uh, it just wasn't a good time, but now it is, so we can get that done for you if you'd like," TestTube offered up a friendly smile. 4S would just nod, taking Knife's hand as he stepped out of the kitchen, the three of them heading out to TestTubes lab for hopefully the last time in a while.

…

It was a very cold walk over to TestTubes lab, but thankfully the inside of it was much warmer, and more insulated, due to her very own heating system.
"So I'm going to be checking the rest of your systems too, if that's okay? I need to make sure nothing else has been majorly damaged."
"Yes s-" 4S stopped himself, thankful it just sounded like he had just said yes with a very long 's' at the end, embarrassed towards himself at almost slipping up like that. Really, her phrasing, and the lab setting, and really everything about getting his systems checked out reminded him of… Well, it was obvious what it would remind him of, and why it did so, and of course he just had to almost slip up, but he was just so thankful he didn't. That could've been awful, and horribly embarrassing if he had. He's not there anymore. He doesn't have to worry.
"Now I'm going to shut you off for this progress, is that alright? It'll be much easier with you off,"
4S hesitated, why was this making him feel so… so conflicted? He didn't like this. He was silent for a moment, before realizing he has forgotten to verbally reply;
"Er, yes. Go ahead." He laid himself down against the cold table, knowing that would make it easier for the scientist. Knife must have been able to read his nervousness, moving his hand to slip into 4S's, silently giving him a reassuring squeeze, letting him know everything was going to be fine. The last thought, as his systems were shut off, was that even if TestTube was trying to do anything malicious, 4S could trust Knife to kick her ass if that were the case. He'd be fine.

.
.
.

TestTube hummed to herself as she worked away at this, carefully removing his screen to access his internals, quickly figuring out why his screen has glitched like that, and moved fast to fix and repair it. She didn't want to spend all day in this lab, so she worked quickly. And though it was quick, it was nothing close to a sloppy job. It was like she knew exactly what she was doing, which… Well, she did, because she had technically built the body 4S was currently in, and she very well knew how to work the systems involved with it. Thankfully fixing him was easy enough, and about an hour later, of mostly complete silence in the room between her and Knife, she was already putting the screen back in place.
"That was quick,"
"Yeah, I know," TestTube smiled to herself. "that should have fixed him. We'll have to see for ourselves, but thankfully the other damage in his systems was fairly minimal. Easy to fix." She gave an awkward thumbs-up, before pressing down on his power button, letting him turn on, and wake up. He sits up with a start, his eyes immediately darting around the room to take in, and realize his surroundings. He seemed just a bit disoriented, but with another reassuring hand squeeze from Knife, he seemed to at least grasp the concept that he was safe. He was okay now.
"Is it … done?"
"Yep! Your glitching is no more! How do you feel?"
"Less uncomfortable. Thank you." 4S would nod towards TestTube, who just smiled at him again.
"We're good to go then! I wanna get back to the hotel to spend some time… not here, so I think we can all head back now," that was TestTubes way of saying they needed to leave, and 4S got the message, sliding off the table, still holding hands with Knife. Yeah, the hand holding was nice. 4S liked the warmth it made him feel. He just hoped Knife enjoyed it too, as they all made their exit, the lab being left unoccupied for the rest of the day.

…

TestTube found herself in her room, hanging out with Fan. The two of them shared that comfortable silence, as Fan typed away on her computer, and TestTube held an opened book.
Eventually though, the idle sound of keyboard typing faded, and Fan spoke;
“So, I was thinking about what you told me, right?”
“Hm?” TestTube glanced up from her book.
“About him not turning on right away? Why do you think that was?”
“Well… I don’t know, really. It could’ve been something wrong with his systems that I didn’t catch, or… I dunno, sometimes objects in situations like that just… Don’t… want to wake up? But I’m surely not going to suggest that. I’m not getting involved in this anymore, Fan. It’s caused everyone enough trouble.” TestTube sighed, looking down at her book again, continuing her reading.
“Huh… Yeah, okay, I understand.” Fan shrugged it off, continuing the typing she had going on.
“Do you wanna go out and do something soon?” Fan asked, still typing, not looking up from her laptop.
“Oh? Like what?”
“I dunno, I know it’s cold, but I feel like you could use a distraction, we could always go on a trip to the mainland with Bot,” Fan glanced up with a smile; “I’m sure they’d love to hear about the non-stressful stuff that’s been going on,”
“I think they’d definitely be excited to realize they have two moms now,” TestTube joked. Fan let out a laugh, excited at the idea, too.
“Yeah, let’s do that. I could use something to get my mind off of all this stuff, anyways.” TestTube continued, smiling at Fan.

…

OJ opened the blinds to the room, staring out at the snowed-in island.
“Huh.” He huffed, realizing the hotel was going to be a lot stuffier for a bit, most objects here not being too fond of the snow. He closed the blinds again, the light from outside being a bit too much. He glanced back to the rest of the room, watching as MePhone sat idly on the bed, scrolling through something on his screen as he idly kicked his legs against the post.
“So… What’s up today?” He asked, pressing his home button to make his face seen again.
OJ shrugged. “After um… Everything that happened,” OJ gestured outwards as he spoke; “Paper suggested I take a few days off, so I know he’ll have a close eye on me to make sure I don’t try to get involved in hotel work, so I guess that’s off the table, but also it snowed, and stuck last night, so going outside is also a no, unless y--”
“No, no snow. Too cold.”
“Right. So we’re stuck in the hotel today.” OJ shrugged again, watching MePhone flop down on the bed.
“I don’t want to just stay in here all afternoon, we need to do something,” MePhone groaned, already growing bored. OJ just chuckled.
“We could always just hang out in the lobby, see what’s going on out there?”
“Uh…” MePhone glanced to the side, the idea of running into 4S not being… particular, though there was no way he was going to admit that out loud.
“Depends on who’s out there, I guess,” MePhone sat himself back up.
“Do you want me to go check?”
“Yeah… Uh… I’m too lazy to get up, that would be a great help.” MePhone grinned, playing it off. OJ just rolled his eyes half-heartedly, heading to the door;
“Too lazy to get up, but you don’t want to spend the day in here? Well, one of those things is gonna have to change, I’ll let you make up your mind while I’m out, okay?”
“Yeah, yeah. Got it,”
And OJ stepped out of the room, carefully shutting the door behind him. It was about ten in the morning, and whoever had been assigned to make breakfast for the day was probably already at it. OJ glanced into the lobby, seeing it was just Pickle right now, booting up a game, probably just having come down from his room. So nothing out of the ordinary. He lingered for a moment, waiting to see if anyone else was going to come down, but since it had snowed, he doubted that many of the residents wanted to leave their room, or go outside today. He could be wrong. He just shrugged to himself, before heading back to his and MePhone’s shared room.
“It’s just Pickle out there doing his usual ‘gamer’ thing. Are you still feeling too lazy to get out of bed?” OJ teased, raising an eyebrow at MePhone, who was still just sitting.
“Uh… I dunno, am I?” MePhone retorted, OJ just rolling his eyes again at this.
“Why don’t we hang out in my office, if you don’t wanna be here all day? I could get some writing done, and we can be in a different room,” OJ suggested, still standing by the door.
“Sure, why not.” MePhone hopped off of the bed, the two of them now heading into the office. Today was going to be a very slow day at the hotel.

Or well, that’s what OJ thought, before Knife slammed open the door to his office, holding an envelope in his raised hand.
“Hey, did you read this yet?” Knife asked, disregarding any ‘hellos’ or even an apology for startling both the cup, and MePhone.
“No, I haven’t, but is now really the best time? What even is it?”
“It’s Taco’s letter. I need to know if you actually wanna read it, or if I should tear it up.”
“Why would you tear it up?”
“That’s what me and Pickle did when she was sending him this shit. Yes, or no?”
“Jeez, okay um, we can read it. I want to know what excuse she thought was good enough to cause all of… uh..” OJ trailed off, glancing at MePhone, who had stopped spinning in the seat he had been sat in, and was just nervously fiddling with his hands.
“You okay?”
“Oh! Yeah, totally--”
“If you don’t wanna see this, you can step out,” Knife offered, not wanting to waste time.
“Okay,” MePhone glanced away, before getting up to leave. OJ just sighed at this;
“Did you have to phrase that so rudely?”
“Didn’t mean it like that, and you know it.” Knife rolled his eyes half-heartedly, stepping over to OJ’s side of the desk, already pulling the several sheets of paper out of the envelope, carefully slapping them down on the desk, in front of the cup.

‘Dearest Hotel OJ,

Many a month ago, I was blackmailed. Approached by Steve Cobs to do a job I initially declined. Despite declining, he called again, showing proof that he wouldn’t take no for an answer. I suppose this is not a supple excuse, and really I’m not trying to make it one, but I did genuinely believe, while doing all of this, that I had no say in the matter. Though I suppose if this is being read, all is fine, and it didn’t even matter anyways, and to that I’m thankful. I do hold several residents of this hotel dearly, and I didn’t want anybody to get hurt. I really didn’t. But in trying to protect, and do this to avoid conflict, it just seemed to cause a much worse one. Though it’s over now, I figure, once again, if this is being read at all, that I am long gone, and I have run off. Do not look for me. You will not have to deal with me, or my devious antics anymore. Attached to this letter, is one more, to explain everything to Microphone, who I’m sure is worried about me not returning at all. I would have written a letter to MePhone, but I’m sure another letter seeking pity is the last thing he needs from someone like me. I knew if I were to come back, and recover, and become stable enough, OJ wouldn’t have the courage to kick me out, so I made the choice for him. I’m leaving for the better of everyone, and though I know letters are not the best way to get messages across anymore, it’s the only way I could this time.

Farewell, Taco.’

And sure enough, as OJ flipped to the next sheet, it was addressed to Microphone. OJ quickly handed that one back to Knife, it being none of his business. Knife didn’t read it either, folding it carefully, and placing it back in the envelope.
“... What now?”
“What do you mean ‘what now’? What are we even supposed to do with this information?” OJ frowned, scanning over the letter once more, before looking away from his desk completely, a bit annoyed.
“Even while trying to be clear with us, she managed to word this in such a frustrating way. How does she even manage that?”
“I don’t know.” Knife shrugged. “What I do know, is that I’m probably going to have a long conversation with Microphone soon.” Knife huffed, staring at the envelope he held in his hand.
“Yeah… Uh, Let’s not tell anyone else about this, okay? If anyone asks, we’ll just say she left. That’s believable, right?”
“Yeah. I… Don’t think that many objects here are really going to notice, anyways.”
“Okay, just um… Send MePhone back in when you step out?”
“Got it.”

…

The moment MePhone stepped out of the room, he was met with 4S, who also appeared to be waiting outside of the office, probably for Knife to come back out. The two made incredibly awkward eye-contact for a moment, before MePhone glanced away, coughing into his hand as he stood against the wall, looking anywhere but at his brother. This was a long, awkward, and emotional conversation waiting to happen that neither of them actually wanted to go through right now. So nothing was said. The tension in the hallway was thick, but eventually, and thankfully, Knife stepped out, looking at MePhone, and gesturing inside, and MePhone didn’t even hesitate, slipping back into the office, not a word said as he shut the door. Knife could hear him let out a heavy sigh of relief as the door shut. He rolled his eyes at this, looking at 4S who looked equally as tense, and guilty. Knife, holding the letter in one hand, used his free one to take 4S’s, leading him out of the hallway, onto the lobby couch, with Pickle. The letter could wait. Probably.
4S leaned on the arm of the couch, having fallen completely quiet after whatever had happened to him in the hallway. Knife squeezed his hand a bit, just a reassuring ‘I’m here,’ kind of squeeze, before taking his hand out of 4S’s, to join Pickle in his game, taking a controller.
“Y’know you’re gonna have to talk to him, right?” Knife glanced at the phone, knowing Pickle was too focused on the game to care about whatever the conversation was at the moment.
“I know. Just give me time.”
“The longer you wait--”
“The harder it will get. I know.” 4S frowned, turning a bit away. Knife just sighed. This was going to be a problem, wasn’t it.

Chapter Text

MePhone sighed, spinning slowly around in one of the swivel chairs in OJ’s office. It had been a little over a week since things had mostly returned to normal. Well, as normal as they could return to, considering neither MePhone, nor 4S were talking to each other. MePhone spent most of his time the past few days around OJ, or MePad, reassuring both of them that he was fine and everything was okay after all that had happened, and very specifically leaving out any mention about the hallway, or the nightmares he had been having about said hallway.
Every single night that he had managed to sleep, which had only really been three days out of the entire past week that things had been like this. But nobody needed to know! That wasn’t even important right now. Even if he was really exhausted.

The important thing was, the fact he was told to go to OJ’s office… Which was currently empty, other than him. It was a little weird, but he just figured OJ was wanting to spend some time with him, and was just late-- the two of them had been practically inseparable the past few days, MePhone wondering if OJ was… Scared to lose him again-- but that still wasn’t important right now. MePhone just kept lazily spinning in the seat, yawning, and not really thinking about it, until the door opened and closed, the lock to the door clicking. MePhone spun around fully now to see…
Not OJ. It was 4S, who looked like he had just stopped himself from falling over completely, jiggling the door handle. MePhone didn’t take long to realize exactly what this was; another closet situation, though… Thankfully in a less cramped, and more comfortable room. He was glad he wasn’t locked in that closet again, especially considering his cramped hallway nightmares, but… Well, this was still very much a problem. MePhone stopped spinning in his seat, awkwardly staring at 4S as he turned to face him, his expression immediately dropping.
“Oh.”
“Yeah, oh.” MePhone glanced away.
He didn’t hate 4S. He didn’t WANT to hate 4S, he was just still… Very intimidated. Maybe even scared, really. But he also wasn’t going to admit that.
The awkward silence, and the tension in the air were thick, and tangible. Neither of them really… Knew what to say. 4S just let out a long, heavy sigh, before moving over to one of the other seats in the room, plopping down in it.
“You told me this happened to you before?”
“Um… Yeah, me and OJ got locked in a closet.” MePhone fiddled with his hands, not knowing really what else to do. “It was to give OJ a break from his work, and um… For us to talk out a falling out we had. This is just… Stupid.”
“It kinda needs to happen, though.”
“I know. I’m just not in the mood today.” MePhone frowned, stifling a yawn. The idea of spending hours locked in a room, even if it were comfortable, and even if he’d been in here plenty of times, was not his idea of fun. MePad was leaving again today, and he didn’t want to miss saying goodbye over this.
“When… will you be in the mood?”
“I- I don’t know, it’s just… I have a lot on my mind today.”
“Is that why you’re still trying to avoid me?”
“I’m not avoiding y--”
“Bullshit. It’s not even worth lying to me. I’ve ruined everything between us again, and I know it’s my fault, but we need to just get this over with already.”
MePhone was silent now, a guilty expression on his face. He really didn’t know what to say.
“I’m sorry. For everything. For hurting you, and everyone else here. I know things here would be much better if I hadn’t come back, and I wish you had realized that before having me rebuilt.”
MePhone wanted to say something. He really did, but it felt like there was a lump in his throat. No words came out yet.
“If you would feel safer with me gone, I can leave. I don’t want to hurt you anymore.”
“No,” Was all MePhone could get out, his voice breaking a bit. “I just wish you would stop blaming yourself.”
“What? It’s not like any of this has been your fault.”
It was silent for a bit, MePhone trying so hard to get his words out. It was a few moments of silence, before he was able to speak, everything just seemed to come out now; “It might as well be. I’m the one who had you brought back. I didn’t even think about how it would turn out afterwards. I thought everything would be fine, and even though it was… him that gave me the idea to get you back in the first place, I- I couldn’t let that go. I was selfish, and now we're all hurting because of it… But as terrified as I am right now, I need you. I… Don’t fully understand what happened, or even why this happened, but I… I know I’ll forgive you eventually. It… Isn’t your fault.”
“It was! I’m the one who went up there! I’m the one who let my guard down, and let this all happen! I’m the one who fucking hurt you!” 4S stood abruptly up from his seat, frustrated. He hated how forgiving MePhone was towards him, even if this was what he wanted. He watched MePhone flinch as he stood, rolling his seat a bit away from him. 4S’s frown deepened at this. “We can’t just keep blaming ourselves. I don’t even have to say his name, do I? He’s the one who keeps putting us through this shit. If he were just dead, or something, we wouldn’t have to--”
“Stop. I- I don’t want to talk about him.” MePhone glanced away again, a bitter expression clear on his face. He moved his hands up to his face, resting his screen in his hands as his elbows propped up his arms in his lap. “I don’t want to talk about any of this anymore. My head hurts.” He mumbled out, lowering his voice a lot. The lack of sleep really having been getting to him lately, this serious topic not really helping him feel any better. He just wanted to deflect, and shove it all under the carpet, or whatever. Despite making strides on not being like this anymore, that’s all he wanted to do right now. It was what he was best at anyways, repressing his emotions. As if that hadn’t ever come back to bite him in the ass.
“Fine, I won’t bring him up, but that doesn’t change the fact that--”
“Just shut up. Please.” MePhone groaned, shutting his eyes tight, his headache growing worse.
“You can’t just tell me to shut up, MePhone. I don’t want you to be angry at me anymore. I don’t want you to be scared of me. I just want things to be normal again.”
“Th’n let’s just ignore it. I don’t care anymore.” MePhone got up from his seat, the sudden wave of exhaustion hitting him like no other. He needed to go lie down or something. As he got up, and turned to the door though, 4S grabbed his wrist.
“That’s not how any of this works. You should know that by now--”
“Let go.” MePhone raised his voice, snapping briefly out of his exhaustion as he whipped around, yanking his arm away, a slight bit of panic filling his systems.
“D… Don’t touch me.” He glanced away quickly, turning back to the door, his strides slow, almost like a trudge.
“Sorry… But please, just sit back down and listen. This is too important to just ignore.”
“Don’t… care…” MePhone stumbled over to the wall, keeping one hand to his head, and wincing, the other hand holding himself up as he leaned against the wall.
“... MePhone? Are you okay?”
Though MePhone didn’t really hear him ask that, as he stepped away from the wall, wincing again. He opened his eyes to be met with the fact that the world felt like it was spinning. The mix of exhaustion, and emotional turmoil at this topic had not done well together as he struggled so badly to keep his balance, quickly holding out his arms to keep himself up. He glanced at 4S, who stepped over to try to help, but MePhone, in this state, was not about to let him get the jump on him again. As 4S reached out a hand, MePhone slapped it away, this being his last coherent action as he fell backwards himself, everything blurring as he hit the ground hard. He let out a pained whimper, his head feeling like it was pounding. He could barely see anything, and his auditory processors had already pretty much stopped responding. When was the last time he slept and recharged? Gods, he didn’t remember right now. He could see 4S standing above him, clearly scared about whatever was happening, before his screen shut off.

…

4S slammed his fist against the locked door, yelling and shouting for anyone passing to open the door. It didn’t matter if the locked room scheme he and OJ had put together hadn’t worked, his brother had just had what seemed to be a very bad dizzy spell, and passed out, and getting him help was much more important than making amends, knowing there would be no making amends if he just shut off and never came back on. Eventually, and thankfully, OJ opened the door, incredibly confused at all the panic, though fully understanding SOMETHING had gone wrong. He opened the door, quickly stepping to the side as 4S carried MePhone out of the room, and into the hotel infirmary.

From inspection from TestTube, it just seemed he had over-exerted himself, and hadn’t properly charged himself in over five days. He just needed rest, and he’d be fine, but that… That didn’t answer why he hadn’t slept in that long. This worried 4S. He would never admit this to anyone ever, but he was still so scared. He worried that this was unfixable, and all his fault. He didn't want to blame himself, he really didn't, but that's just how it felt it needed to be. He sat by MePhone in the infirmary the entire time he was asleep, not moving an inch from the stool he was sat in, just thinking, and waiting for MePhone to wake up, knowing it would take a good plenty of hours for him to recharge completely. 4S just sighed, and stared at his hands. He still had so much to think about, and no idea what to say, or how to say any of it. He just wanted… No, needed to be able to fix this.
But how does he even start?

…

Knife tapped his foot against the carpeted floor, waiting in the hallway outside Microphone's room. He sighed, holding the letters in his hands, the closed envelope. He had accidentally waited almost an entire week to tell her what had happened, and he kind of felt bad about it. He noticed during the time he saw her around, how worried she seemed. He sighed, before finally knocking, knowing it was now or never.
He could hear the sound of her getting off of her bed, and the soft shuffling of footsteps, before the door opened, and he was faced with Microphone.
"Oh hey Knife, what's up?"
He just held out the envelope. It had the letter meant for her, and the letter explaining what she had done.
"Oh."
"Yeah. Um… look, I'm sorry it slipped my mind and I meant to let you in on this sooner, but we don't think Taco is coming back."
"Why not..?" There was clear concern in her voice.
Knife let out a gruff sigh, before hanging over the envelope completely;
"Let's just step into your room and read these, okay? I know you're going to be upset, but she crossed us again. That's how MePhone got hurt. She left on her own, though… We haven't seen her since. That's why she's been gone. Me and OJ read the letter explaining stuff, but she left a letter just for you, too. We didn't read that one."
"Oh." Microphone just sighed, taking the envelope, and stepping back into the room, gesturing for Knife to come in too. This was going to be difficult.
"She's just been gone? She hurt MePhone and ran off?"
"It's… a little more complicated than that. Just read the letter." The both of them sat on the bed now, Microphone taking both pages out of the envelope. She scanned the first letter, and paused, lowering the hand she held it with to her lap.
"Jeez… she was so excited to go up there, she even told me about it, and I wasn't exactly enthusiastic about it considering what happened, but… I didn't think she had other motives.." Microphone frowned.
"Yeah."
"I didn't get the impression she was being… threatened either, she was doing so well at hiding it I just don't understand why she didn't let anyone help her or tell anyone about this, I know she's shady, but did she really not think this through? We could've handled that robot."
Knife glanced away; "don't know about that one anymore."
"What do you mean?"
"I mean that thing almost killed both me and her when we went back up there after the fact."
"It… almost killed her?"
"She's gone, and she's probably missing like half of her shell wherever she is."
"What the hell? And you just left her out there to fend for herself afterwards?"
"No, that's-- that's not exactly what happened. We brought her back to TestTubes lab, and she left on her own. She left nothing behind but those letters."
Microphone was silent now, a frown on her face.
"Did she take a boat?"
"We… haven't checked yet. We can go do that if you want though."
"Yeah. I need to know if she's still here or not." Microphone stood, folding the letters back up into the envelope now. She wasn’t going to read the letter meant for her. She wanted to hear it directly from Taco… If she was even still on the island.
"Alright. I'll go with you."

…

MePhone shuffled in the bed a bit. His body had charged enough to be active again, despite his screen being in sleep mode. He was lying on his side at the moment, still very much asleep. 4S watched him intently, watching every time his hand, or any of his fingers twitched, honestly just wondering what he could be dreaming about. It was completely silent in the room right now. OJ had come in a while ago to check up on things, and had just left a few minutes ago, leaving the phones alone for now.

It was a tense silence, really, though it was only really tense for 4S, considering he was the only one awake at the moment. He let out a soft exhale, trying to keep himself from panicking, or feeling too bad about everything that happened. He hated feeling like this. He really did. He wanted nothing more than to be able to leave this all behind and let things go back to normal, even if that wasn’t how things worked. Even if he knew that wasn’t how things worked. None of this could be put off any longer.
It was another hour of silence in the room before MePhone jolted awake, his hands immediately flying to grip his frame as he shot up into a sitting position. He let out several shuttered breaths, though didn’t cry. He didn’t seem to notice 4S yet, who had stood up in shock the moment MePhone had woken up, not knowing what to do.
MePhone just gripped the top of his screen, mumbling something to himself about something 4S couldn’t quite hear.
“MePhone..?”
His gaze whipped up to meet 4S’s, a brief look of fear on his face, before it faded into something a bit more sad as he glanced away.
“S… sorry,” He raised his voice louder than the mumbling, by only just a bit.
“Don’t be. Are… you okay?”
“... Yeah?” He shrugged, obviously lying. 4S just sighed, watching MePhones grip on himself loosen, as he let out a shaky breath, lowering his hands into his lap.
“I… Should be sorry, actually. I… I know you’re just trying to make things right again. I… Just need to get over it.” He wasn’t going to willingly talk about why he had jolted awake, so 4S wasn’t going to push. “I just…” MePhone shut his mouth, really thinking about something.
“I…” He paused again, his terror, and on edge attitude from whatever nightmare he had just seemed to face into plain uncertainty.
“I don’t know how to get it to stop. I- I’m honestly desperate at this point.”
“What’s… bothering you this time?” 4S cautiously, and slowly sat back down in his stool, staring at MePhone expectantly.
“It’s stupid, it’s nothing.” MePhone let an awkward chuckle out, trying to deflect. He had already said too much.
“If it’s bothering you this badly, to the point you literally didn’t sleep for several days, I’m sure it’s not nothing.”
“How do you know about that?!” MePhone briefly panicked, before it clicked in his mind that he was in the infirmary, and he could easily infer what happened. 4S didn’t even have to answer, MePhone just letting out a soft; “Oh.”
“Yeah. Please, just talk to me.”
MePhone just awkwardly rubbed one of his arms, glancing away.
“It’s like we’ve switched places. I regressed, and you got me to stop doing that, and as someone who literally experienced this not even a month ago, I can see that’s exactly what you’re trying to do, too.”
MePhone let out a groan, a bit annoyed that he caught on completely, even if he was kind of relieved he did notice. He really didn’t want to fall back into old habits.
“Sorry.”
“Stop apologizing, and just talk to me. You don’t have to tell me what you don’t want to tell me, and you don’t even have to like me, or forgive me for anything I did, but you need to talk to someone. And whether it be better, or more unfortunate, I’m the one that’s here right now.” 4S placed his hands in his lap, ready to listen.
“Gods, fine… I’m not getting out of this any other way anyways… And honestly if talking about it gets it to stop I’m willing to try anything… It’s going to sound really silly, and stupid, but uhm…” MePhone fiddled with his hands now, trying to figure out how to say this without sounding like he was just being silly.
“Take your time.”
MePhone did just that, speaking up after several moments of silence; “I keep having nightmares… Uhm, or I was, when I was sleeping. Most of them were about this… Hallway.”
4S perked up at this. A hallway. He watched as MePhone glanced away again, almost ashamed, and embarrassed.
“Endless, and dark, and red?” 4S asked, cautiously.
“... Purple.” MePhone replied, before really thinking about it for a moment, quickly looking over at 4S. “You…”
“I was stuck there when I was in your head. My consciousness. Mine never ended no matter how far I walked-- but this isn’t about me, what did you see?”
“Mine… ended. At some point. I thought-- I hoped it would lead me to… I don’t know, whatever I needed to see, or wherever I needed to be, but when I reached that end, that stupid wall, I- I…” MePhone frowned, looking down at his shaking hands.
“It felt like I was stuck there. For so long. Like I was fading, and dying all over again, and I- It just… It wasn’t even a hallway anymore at some point, this cruel, small, shitty box, and I--” MePhone could feel himself getting upset, tears threatening to spill. Though as he kept going on, he was cut off by 4S standing, and pulling him into a hug.
The tears flowed freely now, as MePhone was almost too stunned to return the hug, but… He did eventually, holding 4S close. This obviously wasn’t going to fix everything, and the two of them still had a lot to talk about, but at least now they had an understanding again, and a place to start.
Maybe things would be okay.

Chapter Text

Thankfully, the snow from a week ago had long since melted, and it was a fairly warmer winter day today. This gave Microphone and Knife the chance to head over to the docks with not much trouble. There were two boats, for residents to be able to come and go if and whenever they needed, most of them being handmade, or generated at some point by MePhone. There was also an occasional ferry that made its way to and from the island. Both boats were here still, meaning she had either tried to take the ship, or she was still somewhere on the island. Really, in the condition she left the lab in, it was a surprise she hadn’t died yet.
“Let’s… Check where that ship was that she and TestTube built, and then let's check her usual areas, okay?”
“Okay.” Mic would nod, following Knife. The two of them had a lot of ground to cover. It was relatively quiet between the two, other than the questions from Microphone to elaborate on what had happened, from Knife’s perspective. This was certainly going to be a lot to explain to her other partner, Soap. After all of what had happened, Soap was… Understandably very distrusting of Taco, and was supportive of Microphone and her decisions, but it was clear she wasn’t fond of the shorter girl. Though, as time passed, the two thankfully had warmed up to each other. That wasn’t what was important now, though.
The two approached the outskirts of the island, spotting the ship, still where it had been landed, and found that Taco was nowhere in sight. Knife let out a huff.
“Gods, she just has to make this difficult.”
“I guess so. C’mon. Let’s check the stump first. That’s our best bet, I think.”
“Yeah.”

.
.
.

To say the state she was in was shocking, was an understatement. She was completely slumped back against the stump, practically unmoving other than her raspy, slow breaths. It looked like she had been sitting here since she had left, and she was absolutely freezing. Knife hadn’t been kidding when he had told Mic that half of her shell, and face had just been completely broken off, and she barely seemed lucid. They needed to get her back to the hotel immediately.

She remained in the infirmary for a long time after this.

…

“I’m sorry, what?”
“Come on! I think it would be fun!” MePhone leaned in the doorway of the room.
“That… Doesn’t seem like the thing I, nor him would enjoy.” 4S frowned, shuffling where he sat.
“Listen, it doesn’t have to be anything big, but I’m sure the idea of getting off this island every once in a while sounds good, and this is the perfect way to do it!”
“... There are still things to worry about here though.”
“Yeah, but I’m sure the others still have it covered. It’s not like she’s even woken up yet, and if-- erh, when she does, I’m sure we’d get a text, and I’m sure Microphone won’t let her run away again.”
“You can’t just… Urghh…” 4S slid a hand down his screen, just a bit annoyed. The suggestion MePhone had given him really didn’t seem like the idea of fun, but… He had a point. This island was small, and certainly suffocating at times, and the idea of getting out of there for a day sounded… Well, it wasn’t the worst idea.
“You’re not going to take no for an answer from me, are you?”
“I mean, I’m not going to force you to come, I don’t mind if it’s just me and OJ going, I just wanted to extend an offer,” MePhone shrugged, pausing a bit, his gaze falling just a bit, before he continued;
“We’ve already been through enough, we shouldn’t have to worry about this too, anyways.”
4S just sighed.
“Fine, I guess you have a point. I will ask Knife if he’s interested in going. Do not get your hopes up.” He answered, moving to swing his legs off the side of his bed. Checking his internal clock, it was already around noon today.

It had been three days since things had relatively returned to normal around the hotel, the air of tension and awkwardness after everything finally being gone.
Well, things were mostly normal now, other than the fact Taco had been found in the woods in terrible condition, and despite everything she had done, Knife and Microphone had brought her back to the hotel, to the infirmary. TestTube was hesitant, but being the only one there that was anywhere close to being considered a medic at the hotel, she agreed to check up on her and see if she was going to be okay. She hadn’t woken up at all during this time, and was still completely out of it, and not that many objects at the hotel even really knew she was there, or what happened to her.
But worrying about her wasn’t what 4S wanted to do. He wasn’t worried about whether she would recover or not, knowing if she died, MePhone would… Probably recover her, but he was worried about what he’d do if he ran into her again. It was her fault this had happened, right? He was sure if he ran into her, he’d be furious. It wasn’t like he could take his anger out on… Well…
No. That was a terrible idea. 4S shook it off quickly, he didn’t need to take his anger out on anyone. That was destructive. He didn’t need to be like that anymore.
“Uh… 4S?”
He blinks, suddenly realizing he had totally spaced out;
“Huh?”
“Was just saying bye, uhh… Yeah, see ya around.” MePhone smiled, before turning back into the hallway, closing the door behind him.
4S was just relieved things were finally normal between the two of them again.

What MePhone had suggested when checking up on him was the idea of some sort of outing between him and Knife, and MePhone and OJ. 4S wasn’t exactly sure about it, considering things were still slowing down, and anything could happen. He still thinks about what happened when he and Knife went out to the mainland sometimes.
Come to think of it, he should probably go find Knife soon. Sitting here in his room and spacing out wasn’t doing wonders for him at the moment, so it’d probably be better if he went out and did something with his day. So after sitting there for… However long he had been sitting there, he got up to leave. Yeah. He had better things to be doing.

…

“Excuse me?”
“That’s exactly what I said.”
“Uh… I dunno,” Knife rubbed the back of his handle a bit, unsure.
“I don’t know either. That’s why I’m asking you.” 4S leaned on the outside wall of the hotel. Despite how cold it was, the two still relatively enjoyed sitting outside for a bit.
Knife huffed, watching the cold puff of his breath dissipate into the air.
“We still have so much going on here, don’t we?”
“Well yes, but MePhone said we shouldn’t have to worry about it… Considering. He has a point.”
“Fair enough. I mean if you’re comfortable with the idea. Haven’t really hung out with OJ in a while anyways.”
“I think he’s still intimidated by me.”
“Heh. Wouldn’t be surprised.” Knife chuckled, before continuing; “Do you think MePhone’s even asked HIM about the idea yet?”
“Honestly? Probably not.” 4S rolled his eyes, halfheartedly.
“Guess we should go find out? My metal’s gonna freeze if we stay out here too much longer.”
“Okay. This weather makes me a bit tired, anyways.”

.
.
.

“Is this really the best time?”
“I think now is the best time-- just hear me out,” MePhone flopped down in one of the chairs in OJ’s office, spinning a little in it before moving it back to facing OJ. “We need to do something that’ll get some of this stress out of our systems, right? This is a great idea!”
OJ just sighed, really thinking about it. He didn’t want to shoot down the idea-- he would love to go on another outing, but Gods, this was just a stressful time for all of them. Things were back to normal for everyone else, sure, but OJ was still stressed out of his mind. It wasn’t even just the hotel work this time, either. It was a lot of different things, really. But… Maybe MePhone was right. Maybe this would be a good way to get some of that stress out of him. That, and he figured MePhone needed this.
“Yeah, okay. Are the other two actually up for this idea or is it just going to be us?”
“Erh… I’m still waiting for an answer, actually. I’ll let you know though.” MePhone smiled. MePhone had been acting… Well, it wasn’t exactly different, but moving on from all of this, he seemed to be acting the happiest he had been in a while.
OJ wasn’t completely sure if all of it-- or any of it, really, was genuine, as wrong as it felt for doubting him, he still worried. After everything, he just couldn’t help it.
“This’ll be fun, OJ. I promise.”
“Do you even have anything planned?”
MePhone’s expression faltered a bit, him taking just a bit too long to reply;
“... yes?”
“You don’t, do you?”
MePhone just sighed. “No.”
“Why don’t we actually think about it before we do it then? And if the other two are going with us, we can all plan something together. I know there’s plenty to do on the mainland.”
“Hmm… Yeah, fine.” MePhone shrugged.

…

At least once a day, Knife stopped by the infirmary. He had no worry for Taco, no ounce of sympathy, but he was still curious. Still wanting to make sure she was still there, and if she were awake, that she wouldn’t be able to just run off again.
Honestly, at this point, Knife was sure she wasn’t going to make it. It had been three days, and the only constant noise in the infirmary was her raspy, rattled breathing. It was scary, honestly, seeing anyone in this state. But there she was, Taco, of all objects in that place. He didn’t usually find himself there long, five minutes at tops before leaving again, but today, Microphone and Soap were also in the infirmary keeping an eye on her. He couldn’t just step in for a few minutes and stare at her and leave without saying anything. That would be weird, and awkward. So conversation was struck up;
“Any update on her condition?”
“No.” Microphone sighed.
Her and Soap sat on two different stools that were pushed next to each other, Soap’s hand on her girlfriend’s shoulder.
“Hm.” He let out, glancing away. “Was just checking up. If anything happens, let me know.” Knife glanced at Microphone, before moving to turn to leave.
“Do you think MePhone’s going to even want to revive her if she… If…” Microphone trails off a bit, not even wanting to say it. Though Knife understood. He stopped in the doorway, still holding the door handle.
“I… I dunno. I mean I’m sure he would. Don’t worry about it.” Knife shrugged, pulling the door shut behind him now. That… Was a concerning question. Surely he wouldn’t just let her die, right? Sure, Knife hated her guts-- like everyone else in the hotel who knew what happened, but…
Knife shook the thought off. This wasn’t his concern. She deserved whatever came her way, but even permanent death felt extreme to him. Whatever. He could think about this later.
Right now though, Knife figured he should let OJ know that he and 4S were willing to go on this ‘double date’ type thing. Getting out of the hotel for a bit sounded like a good idea to him anyways, so he made his way to OJ’s office, knocking before opening.
“Hey.”
“Hey. Is something going on?” OJ paused what he was doing, glancing up at Knife with a raised eyebrow.
“No, just here to say I guess we’re going on that outing with you and MePhone.”
“Oh, okay, we have to get together and figure out what we’re actually doing before we can actually go, do you guys wanna do that tonight?”
“Sure. Why not.” Knife shrugged.
“Alright then, I’ll find you after dinner, how does that sound?”
“Yeah, okay. See you later, then.”
“Are you in a hurry?”
“Not really, I just don’t have much to say.” Knife shrugged again.
“Alright then, see you around.” OJ glanced away awkwardly.

Sure, Knife and OJ had never been close, or technically too distant, but something about that interaction felt incredibly awkward for the cup. But he wasn’t going to say anything. Oh well, it didn’t really matter. He still had things to do.

…

After Knife and 4S had gone back inside, Knife went to go let OJ know they were going, so 4S reasoned he should probably let MePhone know, too. He just had to find the other phone, first. Despite all the time here, 4S still felt just a bit odd walking around the halls of the hotel normally, always wondering if he looked or seemed weird for just going around on his own. He shook off the thoughts though, having other things he still had to do. MePhone wasn’t in the kitchen, or lobby area, so that either left OJ’s office, or their room. 4S was sure he hadn’t gone outside, knowing how much he didn’t favor the cold weather anymore, so surely, maybe he was in his room. That was where he’d check first then. It’d be awkward if he checked the office and MePhone wasn't there, anyways. So that would be the last place he would check if he had to.
So he headed down yet another hallway, not even knocking as he opened the door, glancing in.

Sure enough, MePhone was in the room, but he didn’t look up to greet 4S. He was sitting on the bed, his knees close to his chest, and his hands over his eyes, though it didn’t sound like he was crying.
“... Blue?”
He listened, a bit of worry entering his system as he took a deep breath, in and out, unable to say anything. 4S shut the door quietly, carefully making his way to the side of the bed. MePhone had seemed fine, and honestly happier than he had been lately… so what changed?
“Sorry.” He mumbled, not moving at all, as 4S sat down on the bed next to him.
“Why..?”
MePhone’s frown only deepened. 4S’s worry just kept growing. He wanted to be here for his brother, and he certainly didn’t want, or need a repeat of what happened a few days ago, so he… Didn’t really know what to do. Especially if he once again just wasn’t talking about it.
It was funny how much MePhone tended to repress his emotions, and how 4S had done the same thing, and was told it wasn’t a great way to go about things. So why did this happen so often with MePhone then?
“I… Can’t help you unless you talk to me,” 4S placed a hand on his brother’s shoulder, giving a small, reassuring squeeze after a moment of just holding it there.
“It’s stupid. You’re going to think I’m stupid for doing this.” MePhone kept his hands over his eyes, knowing his expression of guilt and shame would be completely apparent if his full expression was visible.
“No I’m not. Just tell me… Please? I’m not here to judge.”

It was silent for a moment, before MePhone finally spoke again;
“I… None of it’s been… It’s…” MePhone shut his mouth again, unable to find his wording.
“I haven’t been honest.” Is all he could get out.
“What… Do you mean?”
“I haven’t been feeling okay at all these past few days. I thought if I… If I just pretended, and presented like everything was ok, it’d convince me to just cheer up or something but…”
“You’ve been masking?”
“I…” MePhone said, wanting to protest, and tell him that didn’t seem right, but… It was pretty much exactly what he had been doing, and of course, all of it blew up in his face, like every other time. He felt so stupid for never learning. That just made him feel worse. He curled in on himself a bit more.
“Sorry.” He apologized again. He knew he and 4S have had this conversation about not having to apologize probably a million times by now, but he couldn’t help it.
“So… None of this positive attitude from the past few days has been… Genuine? Why did you feel like you had to do this?”

“I just… Everything’s so stressful. I’m trying so hard to make distractions, and cheer myself up, to do ANYTHING to help, but none of it’s working. None of it has worked. I’m so tired of this, Red.” His voice lowered a bit, his tone cracking a bit as he still just sat in the same position. He didn’t dare to move anymore. “I’m not worried about what happened anymore between us-- it’s… Not that, it’s just… Everything else… To clarify. I don’t want to make you feel like shit too." He paused for just a moment; "Gods, why did I think I could do this. I'm sorry" He moved his hands up to hide his face, honestly just so ashamed with himself in the moment.

“Stop apologizing. I’m going to be tough on you right now because you need it. You’re stressed? We all are. I get it. But you can’t just shove it down. You got on my ass for making the same mistake, and here you are. I’m not going to watch you decline further, or continue to put up a front. We’re talking through this, and you might not be happy for a while, but you have basically a whole group of objects who would be more than willing to help you. Me included.”
MePhone really wanted to apologize again, but he held it back, keeping his mouth shut.
4S continued after realizing MePhone just didn’t have it in him to respond;
“I really care about you. A lot of the objects here do. You’ve heard that plenty of times by now, I’m sure. I just wish you’d stop being stubborn and believe it already.”
“I do believe it… It’s just… Hard sometimes.” MePhone finally lowered his hands away from his face, not opening his eyes, but using his arms to wrap around his legs.
“I know.”
It was silent between the two now, though that was eventually broken by a question;

“... Why did you go back up there?” MePhone finally opened his eyes, his expression just neutral as he glanced at 4S.
4S glanced away, not having expected to be asked that.
“I… I was hoping something up there would give me closure.”
“Did you?”
4S just laughed, almost bitter, before answering; “I think it made things worse, actually. I… Don’t think I care anymore though.”
“Oh,”
“I just… Got it in my head if I went up there and destroyed the things he made, or whatever, it’d make me feel better, and yeah, it kinda did, but… what I think would really help is if I--” 4S immediately shut his mouth, glancing over to MePhone again, realizing he probably shouldn’t admit that out loud.
“If you what?” MePhone raised an eyebrow, his emotions mostly just having mellowed out by now.
“It’s… Nothing, really.”
“And now you’re the one hiding things.” He rolled his eyes.
“This isn’t the same kind of situation, it’s just something stupid that I decided not to say.”
“Fine, fine.” MePhone let out a sigh, letting his legs fall flat against the bed finally, as he moved his hands to idle in his lap now.
“Can you please not tell OJ about this?”
“Huh?”
“Uhm… I just don’t want him to worry so much about me while everything else is still going on.” MePhone glanced away.
“We literally just had this conversation, are you serious?” 4S frowned, his tone slightly annoyed, but not angry.
“I- I know, okay? But he’s already got so much to deal with, and I-- I just… Please, if I’m going to be fine soon enough anyways, it shouldn’t even matter.”
4S was silent for a bit, letting out a sigh of his own, before replying; “Fine, Blue, but if this blows up in your face, not my fault.”
“Yeah, yeah. I get it.”
It was silent for a bit again.

“Knife and I are joining you on this ‘mainland’ outing, by the way. That’s what I came in here to tell you.”
“Ah… Right, I almost forgot about that.” MePhone let out a sheepish sigh.
“What, do you not actually want to do that? Or were you hoping that he and I wouldn’t want to go?” 4S joked, lightly elbowing his brother. MePhone just scoffed; “No, that wasn’t it, I just impulse wanted to do something because I thought it would help. I’m not sure anymore though,”
“Do you want to cancel it then?”
“I already asked, and we’re supposed to be planning what we’re actually doing tonight, I just… I would feel bad for wasting his time.”
4S just rolled his eyes.
“It’s not too late to cancel, or say you don’t want to do it anymore. You should know that forcing yourself to do it won’t end well.”
“It’s not even that, either. The idea of going out does sound fun! It really does, and maybe it could help, but I just don’t know! It’s… Complicated. If we plan something that doesn’t sound fun to me, or whatever, I’ll back out of it, okay? I… I’ll try not to force myself to go along with it.”
“Okay. Fine.”
“Thank you. Do you want me to stick around?”
“... Yeah. Maybe we could go watch something on the TV or something?”
“Only if you promise to not fall asleep this time.”
“Deal,”
“Oh, and I still get to pick the movie.” 4S grinned, getting off the bed and stretching out his arms. The two of them had sat there for much longer than 4S had expected, but it wasn’t like he had much going on anyways.
“Oh come on, you picked the movie last time!” MePhone complained, but he wasn’t actually unhappy about it or anything, as he stood up too.
“Yeah, I know. But if I let you pick what we watch, it's gonna be lame.” 4S stuck his tongue out in a teasing manner. MePhone just scoffed, lightly pushing him.
“Gods, fine. It better not be another action movie though.”
“That narrows like all of my options!”
“Exactly.” MePhone grinned, stepping over to the door to the room, holding it open for his brother, the two of them still bickering by the time they reached the somehow unoccupied lobby TV.

4S landed on a movie neither of them had seen before, a more recent one or something, the plot not being something MePhone really understood, just idly watching, his focus not really on the movie at all. MePhone was just stuck hoping the constant stress would die down eventually. He really didn’t want to feel like he was dragging everyone down with him. Despite the talk he and 4S just had, he was still just… So unhappy with himself when he really didn’t want to be. He didn’t even understand the drop in mood, really. Everything felt fine when he and 4S had finally been able to reconcile, and those hallway nightmares even stopped at some point, leaving him to finally be able to rest peacefully, but… The moment Taco was brought into the infirmary, the moment that air of stress and worry entered the air, it felt suffocating. All of it did. He didn’t know how he felt about Taco anymore. He didn’t know if it was anger, or just being plain upset, or something else he couldn’t even name, but… In those days, he was constantly wondering to himself if he’d even revive her if she died. That seemed awful, really. He of all objects knew how it felt to really die, and wouldn’t want to put anyone at this hotel through that, knowing how hard it was for everyone when Bow died, but… Ugh. He just didn’t know. It was frustrating. He felt bad for thinking about it like that.

So he stopped thinking about it at all, choosing to finally tune into the movie to shove down these awful, shitty thoughts, just for now. He knew that wasn’t a great way to go about this, and knew this was what the problem was in the first place, but he just didn’t have it in him to care right now.

He just had to wait until things were normal, and okay again, however long that was going to take.

He just had to keep this up just a little longer.

Chapter Text

4S, Knife, and OJ currently sat in the manager's office, OJ deciding not to get them all together in somewhere where others would snoop in on, rather settling for the safe, comfortable space of his office. Knife couldn’t help but question the design choices when he and 4S had entered;

“Fairy lights?” He questioned, this very much not seeming like something OJ would set up himself.

“Ah, well… That was MePhone’s idea.” OJ leans back in his seat as the other two sat down too.

“You know what, that makes more sense.” 

And as the three sat in the office, there was a noticeable lack of MePhone being there. Which worried 4S, considering the two’s prior conversation, just earlier that day. He wondered if it would be better if he brought it up with OJ. He hated the idea of going directly against what his brother wanted, but… Surely it would be better, especially in this case, right?

He opened his mouth to talk, though that’s when the door opened, 4S shutting himself up immediately as MePhone rushed in;

“Shoot, sorry-- I uh… Yeah. I’m here now. It’s fine.” He gave an awkward grin after closing the door, trying to play his tardiness off, even though it was mostly in character for him, as he found somewhere to sit.

“Ehm, okay.” 4S couldn’t help but stare at his brother, who glanced away immediately. OJ cleared his throat now;

“Alright, um… So we’re all going out to the mainland, right? I think, honestly a double date might be awkward, so I was thinking we should stick to something casual?”

“Fine with me.” Knife shrugged, 4S agreeing.

“Uh, yeah, that’s okay,”

4S wondered if MePhone still wanted to back out. If so, he was losing time to do so without it being awkward. 

“Well? Any ideas? I’d prefer it gets planned out before we do this, so we can let Paper and the others know how long we won’t be at the hotel for.”

“Hm.” 4S looked down at the floor, really trying to think. 

“Isn’t there like… I dunno if this is lame, but that one planetarium? I know it’s a bit out of the way, but it’s um… something different…” MePhone trailed off a bit, almost as if he were either embarrassed with his suggestion, or just unsure. 

“I wouldn’t mind checking that out. Space is pretty cool.” Knife shrugged.

“Okay, so that’s our first idea. Anyone else?”

And that’s pretty much how the rest of this meeting went, someone suggesting things, and the others either thinking it wasn’t a great idea, or adding it to the day plan. After about thirty minutes of just workshopping ideas, the four of them finally had a day plan. They just needed to decide when to actually do it.

“Well, the winter party is coming up soon, so we should probably do this before then, because that party usually marks the start of when most residents start putting up festive stuff, and I need to be fully here for that so a repeat of those few years ago doesn’t happen. That, and there’s more than just paper now that doesn’t agree with water.” 

“Fine with us,” 4S nodded, gesturing to Knife too, who gave a nod. MePhone kept quiet.

“How about…” OJ stood up, stepping over to his calendar, looking at it with a squint for a moment; “Thursday? Hopefully the places we have picked won’t be the most busy on a weekday, right?” OJ glanced at the others in the room, getting nods from all of them.

And so it was set, and all of them just had to hope it would be a day that nothing went wrong on. That was the last thing any of them needed. 

…

MePhone didn’t know why he was up here. Really, he did, but he just didn’t want to admit it to himself. He was on the roof right now, a blanket draped over his shoulders as he sat against the door structure to the stairs that led him up here. He didn’t care how cold it was at the moment, he just wanted to be alone. 

He felt so silly for isolating himself like this, but he had just been feeling so down lately. He didn’t even understand why, really. 

Everything was fine now. He and OJ were happy. He was slowly mending his relationship with his brother again, and his creator couldn’t hurt him anymore. 

So why couldn’t he be happy? 

MePhone couldn’t help but frown, bundling up further into the covers he had generated, glad he had the sense to make it one of those really warm blankets. He wanted to be out here because he knew nobody else really came up here, but he was definitely starting to regret it. He hated being this cold. It made his processors slower than they needed to be, and the last thing he needed right now was to be thinking this slowly during a mental slump.

But he also just couldn’t find the energy to get up.

It was just so silly, really. He never had this bad of a problem with cold weather, really. His systems were never this slow if he stayed out in this kind of weather for too long, but… Here he was.

He wondered if this was some stupid side effect of getting older. He couldn’t help but frown again at the thought. 

MePhone sat alone on the roof for a while before the door opened. 

“MePhone? What are you doing up here?” OJ stepped out, a scarf wrapped around his frame. If MePhone wasn’t so bummed, and too cold to be processing much correctly, he would’ve thought the other looked cute, but he just let out a small, tired hum as he looked up at the cup, who gave a sympathetic frown.

“Let’s get you out of the cold, okay?” He spoke softly, slowly moving to help MePhone up, who didn’t put up any fight, only just swaying a bit once he was standing. He felt OJ put his warm hand in his cold, metal hand, slowly leading him into the stairwell, and cautiously down the stairs. OJ didn’t say anything, and MePhone knew this was probably, and thankfully a conversation for later.

Not one he had to immediately deal with. He wondered if his cover was blown already. He wondered if 4S talked to OJ about his whole emotions thing despite asking not to. 

He wouldn’t be surprised. 

But if the two of them did have that conversation, OJ didn’t bring it up, leading him down all the stairs, to the first floor, and to the shared room.

“Go ahead and bundle up in the covers, okay? I’ll get you some hot chocolate or something, okay?”

“Mmh.” MePhone just hummed out, his systems, and body still mostly chilled, as he only just noticed now, how bad he shook with each step to the bed, before flopping down, nuzzling the blanket he still had draped over his shoulders, and into the warmth of the rest of the bed, too.

The bed felt like such a warm, comforting embrace. He couldn’t help but melt into it, opting to ignore everything for now, in favor of resting. This could be a later problem. For now, he was just really tired, and cold. He didn’t want to be either of those things right now. 

So he let himself drift off before OJ even came back. 

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.

.

OJ let out a soft, quiet sigh as he set the cup down on the nightstand, looking at his partner, an almost sad expression on his face as he moved the covers to be over the phone, for extra warmth. He didn’t really know how much cold really affected the robot, but he knew it probably wasn’t the best idea for him to be outside for as long as he was in this weather regardless, especially considering it was cold enough to snow outside. He stared at MePhone for a few moments, really giving some thought to a lot of different things at that moment, before stepping out of the room.

“Thanks for letting me know he was up there… Um, why didn’t you get him yourself?”

“I… Didn’t know if he was still up there. I only saw him go upstairs, and he just never came back down.” 4S frowned, leaning against the hallway wall. “I asked you to look because you know the hotel better than me.”

“Do we have any idea how long he was up there..?” OJ asked, cautiously. 4S’s frown deepened a bit.

“Probably about two hours. Is he okay in there?”

“Aside from just freezing, he seemed a bit slow, um… Is that..?”

“A robot thing? Yes. It doesn’t… Damage our systems as far as I’m aware, but weather like this, well… It slows us down a bit. If… He was out there that long, it’s… Probably going to be a bit for him to return to normal.” 4S glanced away, glad his eyes were hidden behind shades. Really, he thought his brother was stupid for doing something like this. He didn’t understand why, but he knew there was still clearly something wrong with him. 

OJ just sighed, turning to face the door to the room again, ready to go back in, before 4S opened his mouth. He had to do this.

“Please, keep an eye on him. He’s… Not even just because of this, but…” 4S trailed off as OJ turned around slowly to look at 4S, a knowing, sad look on his face.

“He-- hasn’t been doing… well. Lately. You better be patient with him.” 4S immediately saved face, giving just a bit of aggression, but still showing he cared. OJ just gave a nod, before retreating to the room.

He walked over to the bed, taking a minute to look at MePhone, who’s screen was currently off. OJ could barely see him under the few blankets he was under, but he hoped that amount of warmth wouldn’t hurt his systems either. 

Really, OJ was beyond worried for his boyfriend. It was clear as day to him that MePhone hadn’t been doing well, and both this, and 4S directly saying something, confirmed this. He knew all of this was hard, and stressful for the phone, but he wished his boyfriend would feel safe, or okay enough to open up about any of it, rather than building higher walls. He knew MePhone didn’t mean to, but OJ still just felt so hopeless not being able to help. OJ was well aware by now of what the phone had to deal with to get to this point mentally, but… It was all so scary. This felt like a real thing to be stressed about, and it was much different than his usual work stress.

He just wanted his boyfriend to be okay. 

…

“What’s wrong this time?” Knife immediately picked up on 4S’s shift in attitude. Though it was subtle, he had been around the phone enough to tell by now.

“My brother.”
“Hm.”

“Yeah.” 4S frowned, sitting down on his bed in the room, as Knife set down his handheld console to focus on his boyfriend now. “He’s being… Difficult.”

“To be fair, that’s kind of normal.”

“Yes, but he’s being extra difficult. He’s hiding things again.”

“Is this something you should talk about with him?”

“I did, but it didn’t fix anything. Giving him time never seems to work though.”

“Well…” Knife looked down at the floor of the room, trying to think.

“What’s his problem this time? Like specifically. If I can’t know though, it’s fine.” Knife glanced back up at the phone.

“I think he’s depressed.” 4S said bluntly, not really being cautious about saying it at all. 

“... Oh.” Knife blinked, looking down again to think. “Well you kinda… It’s… Complicated, right? Just be patient with him, I guess. Let him know you’re here for him maybe? And erh… I dunno if it’s OJ’s place to know something like that, but…”

“I’ve already somewhat voiced my concerns with the cup. He’s probably going to try to talk to MePhone when he wakes up.”

“So he was up on the roof?”

“Yes. I’m just glad he…” 4S trailed off, not daring to finish that thought. Knife looked up at the phone again.

“You don’t think he would… Would he?”

“That’s what I’m… Scared of. I don’t want him to get worse.”

“I don’t know him the best, but I’m sure he wouldn’t.”

“I suppose the good thing about us being mechanical is that his body can be fixed, but…” 4S frowned, not liking how morbid the topic was anymore. “I don’t want to talk about this anymore.”

“Okay, we can drop it.” Knife paused for a moment; “Will you be okay?”

“I will be fine. I have felt fairly normal lately. I am just worried.”

“Understandable.” Knife stood from his own bed, stretching out his arms, and grabbing his console, moving to sit next to his boyfriend on the other bed.

“Do you want to get your mind off it for a bit? I’m sure OJ has things covered.”

4S hesitated, not really knowing if this was the right time, but… He really didn’t want to think about it anymore.

“Sure.” 

…

MePhone was still tired when he woke up, his systems still running a bit slower than normally as he sat up, looking around. He was in his and OJ’s bedroom now. At least, he thought he was. He glanced over in the dark room, seeing the other in bed next to him, fast asleep. Yeah. This was their room. He was just on the roof though, wasn’t he?

Ugh. This was annoying. He put a hand to his head, shaking off the feelings a bit, before slipping out of bed. He didn’t know what time it was right now, but he needed to do something.

He just hoped she was still awake as he quietly made his way out of the room, and up the stairs. 

Only when he found himself standing directly outside her room, was when he checked the time. He blinked, his mind becoming a bit clearer in thought as he realized it was two in the morning. Surely she was asleep. Surely this was probably the worst time possible to be bothering… Well, anyone that wasn't still awake. He let out a sigh, one much louder than intended, but he was still a bit slow, so he didn’t really register his volume, turning to head back downstairs. This was a stupid idea, anyway. Surely Candle was sick of trying to help him out by now. He slowly trudged back down the hall, immediately freezing in his tracks, as if he were caught committing a crime, as a door opened down the hall.

“MePhone?” 

Embarrassingly enough, just who he had wanted to see.

.

.

.

As to not disturb her current roommate, the two of them found themselves on the couch downstairs. It was about two thirty in the morning, and though Candle was clearly tired, she was still here, willing to hear him out. MePhone didn’t think he deserved that, but that wasn’t the point. He was just glad his systems were finally catching up with everything, as he felt much less slow now. 

“How did you know I was out there?” MePhone started the conversation, feeling just a bit awkward now. At least that was better than the alternative. 

“I hadn’t managed to sleep yet tonight, I felt your aura from the hall. Is something bothering you?” She raised an eyebrow, though her expression remained calm. MePhone was honestly sure she would rather be doing anything else, than feeling other people’s negative stuff, or constantly playing therapist for him, so he couldn’t help but feel a bit guilty now.

“Uhm… It’s… Broad.” He looked away, embarrassed. “A lot, really.”

“You’ve been through a great deal lately. I can understand why. Is there anything specific you would like to talk through?” She kept her voice hushed, but it was still careful, and just a bit comforting. 

“I… Don’t really know.” MePhone glanced away. This was silly, right? He should be talking through this with OJ, or his brother, or-- or someone, Ugh. He didn’t know. MePhone glanced down to the floor, just growing more embarrassed with himself. This was silly, and pointless. 

“Take a few breaths. Let your current train of thought go,”

MePhone complied, trying his best to shake it off. 

“Sorry.”

“No need.”

“It isn’t even a solid thing anymore, really. I just-- I don’t… I just feel sad. All the time.”

“And that is normal.”

“Is it really? I- I can’t even… I can’t do anything to fix it, why does that have to be normal?” He looked up, meeting Candle’s gaze with his own, his expression almost distraught.

“A lot of objects feel sad for no reason. It would honestly surprise you to know how many objects in this hotel are like that, too. What I hope you can learn is that there is a support system. Many, really.”

“I know, but… Fuck, Candle, that doesn’t make it any easier. I’ve been trying so hard to just feel remotely okay, and no matter how many times I try, something just has to worm its way into my life to drag me right to the bottom again! It’s-- It’s so-...” He cut himself off, noticing how much he had been raising his voice, but now he just felt so defeated, as his posture slouched a bit. “I’m sorry.” His gaze dropped to the floor again. Out of the corner of his vision, he could see the usually stoic Candle frown a bit. 

It was silent for a few minutes. 

“Have you considered therapy?” 

“Wh… what.” He looked up immediately, his expression just unsure now.

“I… Think it would really benefit you, MePhone. I know it’s hard to accept help, but…”

“Am… I really that screwed up..?”

“Therapy isn’t a sign of weakness, MePhone. Dealing with issues such as yours, it may be best to approach a professional…, as scary as the idea may be.”

MePhone frowned, just unsure now.

“Lots of objects go to therapy, for all sorts of reasons. It’s not an insult saying you may benefit from it. Please, give it some thought, at the very least.” Candle gave a firm, but still sympathetic look to the phone.

MePhone couldn’t really grasp how he felt for the rest of the two’s interaction.

…

“Are you sure you’re okay?” 4S crossed his arms, staring directly at his brother.

“Uhm-- Regarding yesterday, I’m fine now, but um… What’s this about?” He gave a nervous chuckle, glancing away.  The two of them were currently in the red phone’s room, 4S having dragged his brother up here with him to talk. He kept a firm look on his face.

“I need you to know I’m here for you.” 4S crossed his arms, though trying to keep his posture as casual as possible. He’d be lying if he said he hadn’t been up for hours past the time he usually managed to fall asleep-- searching the web for tips for this sort of problem.

“Yeah, I know.” MePhone said, a bit sheepish. 

“And I need you to know, if you need to cancel the plans we set, or if you’re really not up for going, that I won’t hold it against you, and if either of the other two do, I’ll--”

“Okay, okay. Was that all?” MePhone just sighed out. 4S definitely noticed a shift in the other’s attitude today compared to the past few days. It was almost if a weight had been lifted off his shoulders. Right now, he didn’t seem sad, just awkward.

“Plus, I’m actually kinda excited at the idea of getting off of the island for a day, so no way I’m backing out.” MePhone gave a small smile, this one not seeming forced. 4S was thankful this seemed to be a good day for the other.

“... Of course. Also, not… My fault, but OJ might want to have a conversation with you at some point.”

“... We have conversations all the time, red.”
“Not the point. I… May have let something slip yesterday in my concern.”

“... Oh.” MePhone just sighed. “I guess it’s better to get that over with… Even if I didn’t say anything, I knew he was going to catch on eventually.”

“Yes, well… That shows he also cares.”

“Yeah, I know.”

“Good.” 4S moved to sit down now, having the serious parts of this conversation out of the way. 

It was silent for a bit.

“Do you wanna go bake something with me?”

4S blinked, looking up at his brother. He took a few moments to give it some thought, before shrugging with his answer;

“Why not. I’d love to see what damage I can cause to the kitchen.” He grinned, mischievously.

“Oh come on, don’t give OJ a reason to ban me from using the oven again,” MePhone scoffed, standing up, and placing his hands on his hips.

“Your mistake for inviting me to bake.” 4S stuck his tongue out, standing up now, too, certainly glad the mood from the past few days seemed to shift, at least for today. He just honestly had to hope this positive mood shift would last.

Chapter Text

Of course, he wasn’t just automatically okay. This was something that would take a long time to think about, and go through. Today, though, was fine. The discussion with Candle had left him a bit… Confused, with a lot to think about, but regardless of the feelings at the time, he was okay. For now.

Currently, MePhone found himself in the hotel kitchen with his brother. This was a regrettable suggestion, considering how mischievous his brother seemed when asked, but MePhone was… Mostly positive his brother wouldn’t cause any huge problems. On purpose, at least. That, and the kitchen had a fire extinguisher, so that would also help. Only if things went south though. Surely it wouldn’t come to that though.

“Well? What should I do?” 4S crossed his arms, raising an eyebrow as he glanced around at the counters.

“Well? What do you wanna make?”

“Me? You know I don’t eat.”

“Yeah, but I still want you to pick.”

“Are you just being lazy?” 4S gave a slight, suspicious look to his brother. MePhone glanced away with a sheepish smile; “Noo,”

“Hm.” 

“Oh come on! I want this to be fun for you too.”

“Why is that the main concern? Isn’t cooking about making stuff that tastes good?” 

“Please?” MePhone leaned against the counter.

4S rolled his eyes, glad his gaze was hidden by his glasses. 

“Fine, fine. I’ll choose something. Erhm… You like cookies, right?” 

“Yeah, but this isn’t about me right now.” 

“Oh come on what’s the point of a suggestion if you turn it down!”

“I’m not turning it down! I’m just saying…!” MePhone held up his hands a bit dismissively. 

“Then we will make cookies.”

“... Fine, okay, I can’t turn that down, what kind?”

4S thought about it for a moment, before shrugging. He knew nothing about this kind of stuff.

MePhone just sighed, resigning to the fact 4S was not going to be any help choosing what to do.

“We’ll just go with something classic and simple.” 

“Sounds good to me.” 4S just gave a thumbs up, glad his small scheme of not having to decide any of this worked. 

And so MePhone generated the ingredients-- Looking through the cabinets was too much effort for him today. He assigned 4S to mixing stuff, while MePhone shaped it. A few others came and went through the kitchen, most not really paying either of them mind-- Which 4S was thankful for. It was only when the cookies were in the oven, while the two waited, was when OJ came in, and acknowledged the two.

“Hey, I can smell this from my office, what’s up?” He started casually, currently smiling his usual polite, friendly smile.

“Chocolate. I was told that it would kill you, so I’d stay away.”

“I- Hey! That’s not what I told you!” MePhone immediately looked over to his brother, a bit shocked, but 4S just stuck his tongue out. 

OJ gasped, feigning shock; “Spreading lies? Oh MePhone, how could you?”

“Oh come on! Do you really believe him? Why would I ever lie!?” MePhone sounded entirely offended, playing into the bit. 

The three of them were quiet for a moment, before both OJ and MePhone started to laugh. 4S just gave a small smile, glad this was all just simple fun currently. 

“Haha, uh, yeah. I’m glad you guys are having a good time, by the way.” OJ kept his smile, glancing at the oven, before looking back at the other two, and then just to MePhone, his expression softening a bit. 4S glanced away, thinking all that love-y stuff the two had going on was weird and awkward. At least considering how he and Knife acted. At least he and Knife had the decency not to shout it to the world. He stifled a grossed out expression just thinking about gestures like that, so he moved to focus his gaze on the oven, and the timer. About five minutes left for the ‘first batch’ to cook. MePhone only called it the first batch because he thought he was going to be able to convince 4S to cook any more, but if asked, he was set to decline. 

He didn’t mind doing this with MePhone, he just couldn’t help but find baking a bit boring. Not really his thing. Though this had been fun at least. 

But even then, they probably weren’t going to be baking a second batch, considering what OJ said next;

“Uh, actually, I’m sorry to interrupt, but could I borrow you for a bit MePhone?” 

“Huh? Me?” He pointed at himself, curious, despite it being obvious.

“Yeah, I… Yeah.” OJ didn’t really elaborate, his expression remaining soft, and a bit cautious now. 4S glanced over at the cup now, picking up on what this was about. 

“Can you take those out of the oven when they’re done-- um, please?” MePhone gave a sheepish look to his brother, remembering the comment he made before the two came down to the kitchen about ‘how much damage he could cause’, and hoping that wasn’t going to happen. 4S just gave a nod, and after a moment, he was alone in the kitchen. He took a seat in one of the chairs, waiting for the timer to go off. 

…

“What’s… Up?” MePhone glanced away as the two made it down the hall, towards their shared room. Despite having several ideas, MePhone was still hoping it wasn’t anything big, or important, or emotional. But of course, 4S had given him fair warning to expect this, and that’s exactly what it was.

“I just wanted to talk… About what’s been up recently..?”

“... Oh,”

“Yeah. I-- I just need you to know I’m not angry, or mad at all, I just… I’d like to know what’s up, if it’s… Anything at all, really, so I can, y’know, help you out?”

MePhone sighed, flopping down on the bed.

“Yeah, okay. Uhm… Yesterday, right?”

“Yeah. If you want to start there… Or when you started feeling bad again in the first place…?”

Of course he couldn’t hide anything from OJ. 

“Sorry.”

“Don’t be, please. That’s not really something you can control,” OJ moved to sit down at the edge of the bed, keeping his gaze on the phone. 

“I just… I dunno. It’s weird. I feel fine, and things start going right again, and suddenly it’s just like I’m right back at square one all over again. I don’t… I just don’t get it. I had this same talk with Candle last night.”

“You got up last night?”

“Yeah. I think it was about… uh… I dunno, probably around two? I was still feeling kinda slow, but… She was still awake, and I um… Yeah. We talked for a while.”

“Was… She able to help? You do seem at least… Y’know,”

“I’m fine today, but that’s just… A today thing. Ugh. It’s still really hard talking about this stuff…” He groaned, moving his hands over his face. OJ, as always, remained patient. 

"Yesterday, um. I was just feeling the worst of it. I dunno. I wanted to take some time to think about stuff, but… I guess I lost track of time or something. All that thinking didn't help though." MePhone just frowned.

It was quiet for a few minutes. OJ opened his mouth, wondering if he should say something, but it didn’t seem like he needed to.

“I’m thinking about going to therapy.” MePhone let out, his voice almost timid, as if he were scared of the idea. That was not what OJ was expecting, but that wasn’t a bad thing. OJ thought for a moment, forming a proper, good response in his head;

“Just know I’ll be here for you every step of the way. I understand that’s a big choice,”

“Candle actually suggested it,” He was still quiet, though he let his hands fall back down to his sides. OJ took a moment to read the phone’s expression. Right now it seemed neutral, but he could see that glimmer in his eyes, and could only wonder if he was going to cry. He didn’t say anything though, not wanting to trigger anything. There was another bout of silence, before MePhone’s neutral expression shifted to a small frown, his gaze moving to meet OJ’s.

“I’m just so scared,”

.

.

.

4S didn’t even bother using any oven mitts, grabbing the scalding hot pan out of the oven himself, having a high enough heat tolerance for this not to bother him much, setting it carefully on top of the oven.

“Didn’t take you for a baker,”

“I’m not.” He turned to give a certain look to whoever it was, though he immediately shifted his expression to something softer as he saw it was just Knife. 

Knife thought this was amusing enough to crack a smile.

“What, so you’re just the guy who takes it out of the oven?” He stepped in, moving to look at the tray.

“MePhone’s idea.”

“What, to not use oven mitts?”

“No, to bake.”

Knife just gave a small nod of understanding. 

“So where’s he off to then? If this was his idea?”

“Talking to OJ.”

“Oh. Like, having that talk?” Knife raised an eyebrow.

“Yes. I’m sure it will be fine. If not, OJ knows I’ll kick his ass.”

“Yeah, I’m sure he knows that very well.” Knife just gave a small smirk. 4S rolled his eyes under his shades.

“Lemme guess, an eye roll?”

“Wh-- what?”

“Got it. It’s getting easier to read you.”

“Oh shut up. You can’t even see my eyes.”

“Yeah, but I can tell from your lack of an actual response.” Knife’s smirk turned to a grin, as he elbowed the other. 4S elbowed back. 

“So, how are you feeling?”

“In general? Fine.”

“Good to know.” Knife grabbed one of the cookies, not caring it was still probably really hot. 

“How are you feeling about the plans?”

“Wh-- which plans?” 4S immediately grew defensive. Knife noticed this immediately, stepping back just a bit to really take a look at his boyfriend. His eyes narrowed a bit.

“What are you up to now?”

“Nothing. I was just confused.” 4S immediately tried to play it off.

“... Right. Really convincing.” But no matter how convincing he was, he couldn’t get anything past Knife.

“About our plans, I am also fine with that. As long as none of it involves weaponry.”

“Yeah, I don’t think most places we’re going to would appreciate it if you showed up with a gun, so I don’t think that’s going to be a problem-- but also, you’re not just going to be able to cover whatever you’re doing up. We don’t need a repeat.”

“Gah, I-- It’s not even a plan, okay? Just… A lot of thinking. It’s-- It’s not even legal. Or something you need to care about, so I’m not saying anything else.”

“... Now I’m even more curious. What gives you the impression that I Would get mad at you for doing something illegal?” Knife kept pushing, figuring this might be something serious. 

“Well I’m not just going to tell you here, where theoretically, anybody could hear.” 4S crossed his arms. 

“Easy, let’s go back up to your room then.” 

“... Fine. I need second thoughts, anyways.” 4S sighed, resigning. 

See, 4S had been thinking about this a lot. Maybe it was some new plan about chasing a sense of closure, still not feeling like he deserves to feel this unfulfilled about everything that happened-- And everything that MePhone had been put through--, not to go to the MeCloud again, but to go meet it at the source, and deal with the problem there. And well, that was… Obviously something he couldn’t just discuss with MePhone. He, for one, was far too empathetic towards those who have hurt him, but also because well… Steve would be a sore subject for anyone who had been through half of what that man put that phone through. 

So he supposed the only one he could voice this idea to was Knife. The two of them had retreated to the safety and privacy of the bedroom to talk, Knife leaning against the door, while 4S sat on the bed, holding his plushie for comfort while the two discussed this serious topic.

“No. I know I don’t have any power over your choices and all, but there’s no way it would be a good idea to go see him. There’s no saying what he could do, even from behind bars. That, and I don’t know, think about what would happen if your brother found out?” Knife crossed his arms, already looking a bit annoyed after everything was explained to him. He’d love to support his boyfriend, but not with this. 

“I just don’t get why you said this wasn’t legal.”
“I want him dead.” 4S answered bluntly. Knife blinked. 

“oh. OH. I-- Erh, that’s not a good idea either. What happens when you kill him, at jail, in front of many guards, and on camera. You’ll end up exactly where he was.”

4S was just silent now, really trying to think about it.

“I could… Hire someone to do it for me.”

“With what money.” Knife frowned.

“Erh…” 4S stopped. 

“Look, I’m not gonna say you’d be as bad as him or something, that saint bullshit-- if you went off and killed him, because I’m sure he deserves whatever comes to him, but I-- And I know MePhone aren’t going to be happy if you end up in Jail. Or worse.” 

“He does deserve it.”

“I’m sure. But that doesn’t… It’s tough, but…” Knife frowned, thinking about what Taco had said when he first went up to Meeple with her to help save MePhone. How she had suggested it would be easy to get rid of him.

He wondered how much less stress everyone would be feeling if he hadn’t declined that plan. 

But he quickly shook it off. It was way too late for him to be blaming himself for any of that. What’s done is done, no matter how unfortunate.

"But it's a bad idea. I see." 4S's expression shifted to something stoic and unreadable. "I just don't want him to bother Blue anymore. We've all seen that jail isn't even stopping him. Who knows what he's going to do next." 4S stood, moving to leave the room, carefully setting down his plushie. 

"We'll go to the police if he does anything again, okay?"

"Like that worked when he got Taco on his side. Like that worked when he basically mind controlled me. We have nothing on him now. With the possibility of MePhone not even wanting to revive Taco if she doesn't make it, we don't even have anyone to vouch for what happened. None of that malware is in my system anymore." 4S clenched his fists, just frustrated at this. At everything, really. This world was just so pointlessly and constantly cruel. He hated this. 

Knife just frowned as 4S approached the door, as if he wanted to storm out, but currently, he didn't budge. This conversation was far from over.

.

.

.

"Thanks. For everything, really." MePhone mumbled, holding OJ close. The two were still in the shared room, but now MePhone was sitting up, and the two were holding each other. 

"Of course. I love you, MePhone. I would be selfish if I tried to stop you from getting real help. Anybody would."

"I love you too, so much." MePhone couldn't help but instinctively nuzzle further into the warmth his boyfriend currently provides. 

OJ was honestly proud of how far MePhone has come after all this time. It almost made him feel sentimental as the two held each other close, thinking about how he never would’ve imagined any of this to have happened a year ago. He would’ve called himself crazy. But here he was now, and here was MePhone, who was slowly, and surely making the progress he needed to make, to really be happy. OJ was surprised he had actually given Candle’s suggestion of therapy real thought-- and well, he was glad he did.

“... What now?” MePhone asked after a long bit of silence.

“We could look into therapists nearby on the mainland, or if you don’t want to jump into it so soon, we can put a pin in it for now,”

“I don’t know, maybe later tonight? I just think I need more time to think about it, but… I don’t want to put it off too long either.” MePhone paused with a sigh; “I’m just afraid if I put it off today I’m never going to have it in me to really set something up,”

“Okay, just let me know, I’m here to help you with this.”

“Thanks,”

“Of course.”

.

.

.

4S walked out of the room, down the stairs, and out the doors. He needed time to think. He had choices to make, and as much as he valued Knife’s opinion these days, the idea of making sure Steve couldn’t hurt anyone else anymore was just so… It was nagging at the back of his head. Realistically, Knife was right. It wasn’t like he could just go kill him while he was still in prison, or even after he gets released-- even if that was a long time away, well… What was stopping HIM from doing anything once he was free again. 4S knew better than anyone how much that stupid man didn’t seem to quit. It was only a matter of time, and 4S couldn’t help but feel a constant looming dread. He had felt this since the whole incident-- or after he was back to his normal mindset, the idea that even from behind bars, he could get away with anything, and there was no true justice or peace until he was dead.

It was terrible, but it wasn’t something 4S was foreign to. It didn’t mean this was a good feeling though. And none of this even accounted for the whole morality thing about killing and murder. But 4S believed that maybe some people deserved it. But maybe that was just him being his usual awful terrible person. 

Ugh. This sucked. All of this sucked. 4S didn’t even know where he had ended up on the island, only just now processing his surroundings rather than being consumed with his current thoughts. He blinked, looking around. He had managed to make his way to the woods. The… His thoughts trailed off as his foot made contact with something. He glanced down, his eyes immediately widening. He looked up, around at the area, then back down, realizing exactly where he was, the ground scattered with small pieces of broken glass. 

…

Knife sighed, finally leaving the room. Surely he had given 4S enough time to cool off. Of course, this was a difficult situation. A difficult conversation. He didn’t judge 4S for thinking about murder-- hell, he did plenty of that just on MePhone’s show in the first season, but that wasn’t the point. He just didn’t want 4S to end up in a worse situation. Surely the phone would understand, right? 

Knife just sighed, heading down to the lobby. Pickle and Bomb were on the couch, wrapping up one of the gaming tournaments, one that Knife had decided to skip. He leaned on the couch, watching the round end, before turning to Pickle;

“Hey, have either of you seen 4S?” 

“He sped out of here like an hour ago,” Pickle answered, Knife just giving a small nod, before turning his focus to the doors. He had a boyfriend to find. 

“4S?” He called out, quickly stepping through the woods, trying to listen out for him. He didn’t know where the phone was, but the wooded area was the best guess he had currently, him not having been near the hotel. 

“4S? Where are y--” He stopped, hearing a bit of rustling. Naturally his instincts had him on edge, but that was the direction he decided to head. 

And that’s where he found 4S, sitting against a tree, completely quiet. The phone’s gaze moved up to Knife as he stepped into view. 

“Are you okay?”

“Careful where you step.” His tone was uncharacteristically quiet. Knife blinked, looking around. It didn’t take him long to notice the glimmering of broken glass, reflecting off of the sunlight peeking through the forest treeline.

“Oh.” Knife frowned, stepping to the side, over to his boyfriend. He placed a hand on the other’s shoulder. 

“I really want to do it. I can’t let him hurt anyone anymore.” 

Silence.

Knife moved a bit more, taking a seat down on the ground next to 4S, pulling him into a hug.

“If there was anything that could be done, I’d help you.”

“But you can’t.”

“I’m sorry.”

“This isn’t something for you to be sorry about.” 4S moved his arms to return the hug.

Why did things have to be so difficult?