Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

A soft spring breeze gently flies through the air. The sun shines on the kids playing outside, playing tag and talking amongst themselves as children do. Yet one sits alone on a tree branch, hiding away from the children. A young boy named Bomb, hides in the tree, silently watching the kids with envy. It’s not like he wanted to play with those kids, he was envious of something else. Their voices. Bomb was born with a stutter. He was the only kid in his grade, perhaps even in the whole town that had a stutter and everyone knew that. Whenever Bomb spoke, the people around him would point and laugh at him shamelessly, mocking his voice. The endless amount of teasing and bullying he got from those kids were ruthless.

“Why does your voice sound like that?”

“Are you dumb? Why can’t you speak normally?”

"Can you speak any slower? Your voice is annoying me!"

“Oh no! We’ll catch his disease if he comes near us! Let's get away from the idiot!”

Why were they so mean? Bomb didn’t do anything but speak. Why was that so wrong? He hated it so much, all he wanted was to talk. To tell people what he thought, how he felt, what he saw today, what kind of shows he liked to watch, the plants he liked to grow. Why was it so hard for him to be himself without people making fun of his stutter? It was frustrating, it was belittling, it was cruel. It was so bad to the point where Bomb refused to speak. The constant bullying had caused him to take a vow of silence, no matter how many people tried to pester him to speak, to jab at his voice, to crush his self-esteem again. Not even the teachers could get him to speak, no matter who it was, Bomb refused to speak to anyone. What was the point of speaking, if no one listens?

Bomb sighs as he hugs his knees.

“W-Why c-c-can’t I speak l-l-like everyone e-else?...”

Bomb closes his eyes and imagines himself a reality where he was normal. Just a normal boy with a normal voice. Maybe then the kids in his class wouldn’t bully him for his voice. Maybe then he could play tag with all the other kids outside. Maybe then he could be a normal kid, talking to his friends about the latest tv show, answer the questions his teachers asked him. Maybe then he doesn’t have to be scared to speak...

Bomb sighs again, he knew that no matter what he wished for, his voice will still be the same. The same voice he hated. He just wished something could just make things better, maybe change his life around. Something, or someone… He then opens his eyes, and then he sees a bee. Right in his face.

A moment of stunned silence.

“AHHHH!”

Bomb screams and then loses his balance and tumbles out of the tree. He crashes down, falling face first. He winces in pain and tears form in his eyes. Then he looks up, and makes eye contact with a boy who was apparently sitting under the tree. His brown eyes meet the boy’s green eyes. They both stare at each other in shock. Bomb then flushes bright red, this boy just witnessed his embarrassing fall from the tree and is staring at him, completely stunned. Before he could process anything, the orange haired boy closed the book he was reading and dug through his pants pocket. Bomb blinked at him for a moment, he was completely sure that this boy was going to laugh at him, but he hasn’t yet. Then the orange haired boy handed Bomb a handkerchief from his pocket. Bomb stared at it for a bit until he realized that his nose was bleeding. Well it was granted, Bomb did fall face first from a tree. Bomb blushed, embarrassed but took the handkerchief from the boy gently, wiping his nose that was leaking a good amount of blood.

The two sat there in silence. Bomb wasn’t sure what to do, usually people who meet him would laugh at him but this was different. This orange haired boy didn’t speak to him and Bomb was afraid to speak, in fear that this boy would make fun of him like all the others, but the orange haired boy just continued to stare at him. Bomb’s eyes darted around the boy, he was wearing a white collared shirt, very pristine and not a sign of a wrinkle, his hair was tied up in a little ponytail, the boy had a beauty mark under his right eye, and his eyes… He had very pretty emerald eyes… Bomb then noticed that the boy caught him staring, he quickly looked away, flushed and tried to find something else to focus on. Then his eyes locked onto the boy’s book.

“American Sign Language: 101.”

Bomb’s eyes light up. Bomb had taught himself sign language so he didn’t have to speak to others and communicate without using his voice. But no one knows how to speak it, let alone understand it, but this boy was reading a book about it… Maybe, this is something… someone… who was going to change his life around… With trembling hands and a beating heart, he signs nervously and slowly…

“Do you sign?...”

The emerald eyed boy’s face lit up in surprise. He takes a moment, and then lifts his hands up slowly…

“I do…”

Chapter Text

OJ was always pushed aside by his parents for his cousin, Test Tube. Test Tube is a very gifted child, she was very intelligent for her age, getting academic rewards constantly and winning many prizes. His parents always preferred her over him, it was no secert to anyone. OJ was academically gifted, but nowhere near Test Tube’s level. He really does try though.While Test Tube was naturally gifted, OJ worked hard to have his parents look his way, to maybe one day just to say to him “that’s amazing son!” or “I’m so proud of you OJ!” But everytime he tried, he was met with,

“Test Tube did better than that! Why can’t you be more like her?” or “Not now OJ, your cousin is going to another award. When are you going to bring our family an award OJ? Second place is first loser.”

It was always "Test Tube did that", "Test Tube did this," but what about OJ? He felt forgotten, there were even days where his parents would completely forget to pick him up at school because they were at Test Tube's school, watching her win more awards. He didn’t hold it against his cousin though, since she was always kind to him whenever they met. She was always humble and tried to cheer OJ up, complimenting his work and acknowledged his efforts.

"Golly OJ! That's amazing!!" she would say whenever OJ talked about his second and third place awards awards. She would always give him a supportive pat on the back whenever she visited, hw always appericated it.

OJ got along with her fine, and he always apperciated her kindness and support. But a small part of him, the worst part of him, hated her for being better without even trying. He worked so hard, studied for hours, cried for hours, to get better for his parents but he gets nothing from them but they always had love and affection for Test Tube. It was like he was invisible to them, As and A-s weren't enough for them. They always looked at him as if he were useless, disappointed that their only child and son, coudn't be better or even come close to his cousin. He just wanted them to be proud of him, just once would be enough. But it doesn't seem like it will ever happen.

OJ sighed as he found himself a nice spot under a tree, sat down. He never liked the others kids in his class, they only wanted to be around him so they can cheat off his answers for tests. Settling down under the tree and letting the breeze brush his face gently, he cracked his book open. “American Sign Language: 101,” he found sign language interesting, he didn’t have to speak but could communicate. OJ never really liked speaking much, he was quite shy actually. That’s why he didn’t have many friends, he never really had the courage to talk, nor really the time since he was so busy studying. Today was one of those days, as he sat quietly under the tree and started to polish up on his sign language until-

“AHHHH!”

OJ jumped and looked up to see a boy stumble out of the tree and slam his face into the ground. The boy held his face and tears were forming in his eyes, Oj saw a bit of blood coming out of his nose. The boy with dreads then looked up at OJ, and their eyes locked onto each other. The boy then turned bright red to OJ’s surprise. Then he saw that the boy didn’t notice that his nose was bleeding, so he quickly dug into his pocket and handed him his handkerchief. The brown eyed boy stared at him, and then hesitantly took the kerchief and slowly wiped his nose.
They both just kinda sat there in complete silence. OJ wasn’t sure what to do, or what to even say to a boy who fell face first from a tree. Heck, what do you even say to a boy who randomly fell out of a tree? Does he ask what he was doing there? Why did he fall out of the tree? Why was he even in that tree in the first place?

While OJ was pondering the whys, he noticed that the boy was staring at him. When their eyes met, the boy's face flushed and he looked away. OJ blinked at him a bit confused, but before he could say anything the boy suddenly signed at him.

"Do you sign?..."

OJ looked at him baffled. He never thought that someone his age knew how to sign. His mind was racing and he lifted his hands as well.

"I do..."

They both stared at each others in shocked silence. Then the brown eyed boy suddenly started signing up a storm.

"YOU KNOW HOW TO SIGN?"

"WHY DO YOU KNOW HOW TO SIGN?"

"I NEVER MET SOMEONE WHO COULD SIGN BEFORE!! THIS IS AMAZING!!"

The boy was signing so fast and excitedly, OJ's head was spinning trying to catch up to him. The boy must of noticed that OJ was being overwhelmed and blushed in embrassment. He signed much slower this time, but still very happy and excited looking.

"Sorry! I just got really excited. I never met someone who could sign before."

OJ smiled softly. "It's okay, I never met someone who could sign either. Why do you sign?"

The boy fronwed a bit, and hesitated for a beat, but he signed carefully, "I actually have a pretty bad stutter... I don't really like speaking because everyone makes fun of my voice."

The boy hung his head low, he looked like he was about to cry. OJ felt great sympathy for this boy, he seemed lonely, like himself. He must of felt so alone, so left out, just because he was different, not like how everyone wanted him to be... He wanted to comfort this boy, but he wasn't sure how. After a couple of seconds, OJ shuffled closer to the boy and placed his hand over the boy's and patted it gently. The boy looked up at OJ, his brown eyes wide with shock as they stared into OJ's green eyes. OJ smiled comfortingly at him.

The boy blushed a bit, and then signed to OJ, "So... Why do you sign?"

"I sign becuase I wanted to learn it. I don't like talking much either."

The boy smiled at him. OJ felt a bit good about himself, helping this boy that fell out of a tree feel better. the next thing they both knew, they started signing to each others about everything. They talked about their favorite shows, their passions and hobbies. OJ learned that the boy really likes plants and gardening, he knew a lot about plants that OJ didn't know about. Their silent conversation flowed so naturally, that they didn't even realize that recess was over. The whistle made them both jump as they saw the kids gathering back to their classes.

"Oh, I guess we have to go then. What class are you in?" OJ signed at the boy.

"I'm in class 2-C! What about you?"

"I'm in class 2-A."

The boy's eyes widened. "Wow! That's the smart class! You must be really smart! Well, I guess that's obvious, because you know sign language and you're super cool!"

The boy smiled at OJ, his dimple peeked out. OJ blushed a bit, that was the first time someone else that wasn't Test Tube gave him a genuine compliment. He felt himself become shy and signed shyly, "Thank you..."

They then both started to walk towrds the crowd to get back to class until the boy suddenly stopped. OJ looked at him confused, wondering why he stopped all the sudden.

"I never got your name! What's your name?" he signed.

OJ took a moment to realize that they spent so much time signing to each others but they never exchanged names at all.A bit embrassed, OJ signed,

"I'm Orange Juice. But you can just call me OJ."

"OJ... I like that name!" the boy signed, smiling ear to ear. OJ blushed again. Then the boy signed at him, "I'm Bomb!"

"It's nice to meet you Bomb." OJ smiled at him. They both stand there, smiling a bit awkwardly, as the crowd starts to go to their classes. OJ was about to turn around and leave to get to his class until Bomb suddenly hugged him tightly.

OJ gasped in surprise from the sudden hug, he wasn't used to physical contact since it was nonexistent in his household. OJ wasn't sure how to react besides blushing bright red in embrassment, until Bomb lets go of OJ, smiling at him brightly, his eyes glistening with excitment and fondness. Bomb then signed at him excitedly.

"Thanks for talking to me OJ! I'll see you tomorrow!"

Then he ran off to catch up with his classmates, smiling so bright, it was blinding. OJ just stood there in shock. Then he smiled gently, and waved at the boy who waved back.

OJ only wanted to study and be left alone, but maybe it was nicer to have someone to talk too. OJ smiled to himself softly, gripped his book tightly and walked back to his class, holding his head high.

Chapter Text

Months passed ever since OJ and Bomb met under that tree. After that the two were almost inseperatable, being seen together almost everyday. Even though they were in different classes, they always looked for each others, in the hallways, the cafeteria, and of course, at recess. Though nobody knew what they were talking about, they had an idea that it was about something fun based on how goofily they smiled at each others everytime they signed something. Today was no different except for the where they were. The grade was on a field trip to the zoo, and both Bomb and OJ went together. It was both of thier first tine going on a field trip; OJ being too busy studying to impress his parents and not having friends to enjoy the trip with and Bomb also not having friends to go with and not wanting people to bully him over his voice the whole time. Now it was different since they have each others to have fun with so they were both estatic to go on this trip together. Though OJ stuggled a bit to convice his parents to let him go on the trip, his recent good grade on a test had let his parents allow OJ to go, much to both OJ and Bomb's delight. Bomb was very excited but he noticed that OJ seemed to be bursting with excitment, excitedly pointing out all the animals at the zoo and rapidly signing at Bomb all sorts of trivia about each and every one of them. Though he enthusiastically signed about each and every animal, Bomb noticed that OJ seemmed to put all his attention towards the pandas the moment the class got to their area.

"Hey OJ?" Bomb signed as he tapped OJ on the shoulder, "Are pandas your favorite animals?"

OJ blushed a bit, "Yeah they are. They're just really adorable and soft looking. I just really like them a lot! I tend to go on and on about them but I don't want to bore you..."

Bomb blinked at OJ, and then held his hand tightly, "You never bore me OJ. I would love to hear about what you have to say."

OJ stared at Bomb with a flushed fac and slowly started signing, "Well... Pandas actaully have vertic slits in thier eyes like cats... and they have an extended wrist bone that they use like a thumb..."

The more OJ signed about pandas, he started to get more excited and signed faster and faster, his smile ever growing and his eyes glistening in excitment. Bomb continued to listen, even if a lotof it he didn't understand, he smiled softly at OJ. OJ would always listen to Bomb whenever he talked about plants and such, so he wanted to give OJ the same amount of care he does to him. That's why he likes OJ a lot. A lot more than the other kids here, a lot more than his teachers, or maybe his family. Things felt different with him, but Bomb's couldn't really put the right word to what this feeling was. It didn't matter though, what mattered was right now with OJ.

OJ rambled about pandas throughout the rest of the field trip, even after they moved on to the next area. Bomb didn't mind, he just enjoyed the sparkle in OJ's eyes and listened. Soon the class reached a gift shop.

The bane of all parent's wallets.

As their classmates oggled at the over priced souveniers and themed snacks at the shop, Bomb took a gander the little books about plants had. As he contemplated if it was worth the $20 his grandmother gave him, Bomb saw from the corner of his eye that OJ was staring at a stuffed panda bear on the shelf next to him.

"Why don't you get it?" Bomb signed at OJ. OJ looked at Bomb, shot him a small smile but shook his head.

"I... I didn't get any money from my parents for anything. They think it's a waste."

Bomb stared at OJ a bit. OJ looked at him a bit confused. Then Bomb picked the plush off from the shelf and shuffled his way towards the counter. OJ took a moment until he realized what Bomb was doing and chased after him frantically. Before he could stop him, Bomb placed the bear on the counter and the clearly tired and underpaid teen behind the counter looked at the small child.

"...$19.76..."

Bomb got on his tip toes and places $20 on the counter. The cashier took it, handed back the change and the bear. OJ stared at Bomb, mouth agape, as he shuffled towards OJ.

"You didn't have to do that..." OJ signed, still surprised at Bomb's kind gesture.

Bomb smiled innocently at him. "I know," He handed the bear to OJ, "but I did!"

He grinned brightly at OJ. OJ looked at Bomb, then at the bear, and again at Bomb. He then turned a soft pink and stared at the floor, holding the bear close.

"Thank you..."

After the trip, their grade rode back to school on the buses and started saying thier goodbyes. OJ and Bomb were together before they went their seperate ways. OJ usually walks home but he would wait until Bomb's grandparents came to pick him up. They both stood together, Bomb still smiling happily but OJ was still flustered from what Bomb did. Soon his grandparents cameand Bomb gave OJ a quick hug.

"I'll see you tomorrow OJ! I hope you like the bear!"

"I do! Thanks again Bomb. I'll see you tomorrow too!" OJ smiled and waved as Bomb went with his grandparents. After they turned the corner, OJ started to walk home as well. Usually he felt a bit lonely walking home after school, not wanting to say goodbye to Bomb. But the panda Bomb got him, made him feel less lonely. OJ smiled as he hugged the bear closer to his chest and walked home giggling.

"I'm home!"

"Inside voice. Take your shoes off before you come inside OJ." OJ's mother called out from the kitchen. OJ took off his shoes as he placed the bear down gently on the floor. His mother squinted her eyes at it.

"What's that?"

"A stuffed panda bear! My friend... He got it for me-"

"You're making other people get you things?"

OJ stopped. He stared at his mother, the excitment in his eyes fading.

"Huh?"

His mother rolled her eyes at him and grumbled, "I can't beleive you're making your friend buy you useless things."

OJ turned red in shame, and put his head down, fidgeting with his fingers. "I-I didn't make him get it for me-"

"Don't talk back to your mother!" She snapped, "Just go to your room and study. You have a test tomorrow. Your father and I are expecting an A+ this time."

OJ fought back tears, but silently picked up his panda and bookbag and shuffled upstairs to his room. He flopped on his bed, tearing up a little bit, trembling. This is usually how it went whenever he came home, but he felt so happy before he walked in, it sucked to get that excitment shut down so quickly lke that. OJ sighed and turned his head towards the panda bear. He took it and held it close to his chest, letting some of his tears fall on it.

"I wish I didn't have to come home all the time..."

After a couple of minutes of OJ hugging the bear, he got up and went towards his desk. He placed the bear on the corner of his desk and stared at the study books on his desk. That's all he did really after coming home. Just wake up, go to school, come home, study and then sleep. He had all sorts of lessons on top of that too like piano and mathematics. He wasn't even sure if he wanted to do piano, he wasn't even sure if he had any hobbies since he never had time to explore anything. OJ sighed a bit, but he looked at the panda bear on his desk and smied a bit. If studying hard ment that his parents will let him hang out with Bomb more, then it shouldn't be too bad.

Chapter Text

It was finally summer vacation! School is over (for now), the clear, blue skies were back, and the warm weather Bomb absolutely loved was back. But another thing he absolutely loved is that now OJ can come over to his house! They've been talking about it for a while but OJ was never able to come over because of his after school lessons and OJ always seemed uncomfortable with Bomb coming to his house because of his parents. Now is the chance to have a little play date. He told OJ to come over at 1PM so they can have some lunch together and watch some scary movies since OJ never seen one yet. Bomb was in the middle of cleaning his room until his cousin, Bomby peeked in.

"Whatcha doing Bomb?"

"C-C-Cleaning my room! Don't b-bother me!"

Bomby stared at Bomb. "You're cleaning your room? ... Are you bringing your girlfriend over?"

Bomb shot a nasty look at Bomby, "Ewww! G-G-Gross! I-I-I'm just h-having a friend o-over!"

"Oooooh... OJ right? The one you keep talking about?"

Bomb blushed. Ever since he met OJ, he talked about him to his cousins and grandparents all the time. He never met such a wonderful person like OJ before. OJ sometimes would talk to him without signing but never urged Bomb to speak. He always appreciated how OJ was always looking out for his comfort.If he was being totally honest, being with OJ made him feel happier, much happier than when he's talking about plants which is a lot. Bomby took notice of Bomb's embarrassment, and smirked.

"Well, this OJ guy is a good influence on you! I've never seen you so excited for a person who isn't family."

Bomb chucked a sock at Bomby as he ran away laughing. He was right though, he never usually cleans his room but for OJ, he wanted to make it look nice even though he was sure that OJ wouldn't have minded. He checked his phone for the time and it was 12:45. Bomb then shoved the rest of his stuff under his bed and raced downstairs and plopped himself in front of the front door. He wanted to be able to open the door for OJ the moment he rang the door bell, so he sat there patiently. Then someone tapped him on the shoulder

"Why are you sitting at the front door? Do you have a package coming in or something?"

Bomb looked up to see his other cousin, Bom.

"I-I-I'm waiting for O-O-OJ!"

"Oh, you did say that you were going to have a friend over." Bom thought for a bit, "Say, you've known him for a while, have you like, talk talked to him yet?"

That thought had crossed his mind a couple times. OJ and Bomb have been friends for a really long time, but he was still afraid that his voice would scare OJ away. He knew that OJ would probably never do that but the doubts in Bomb's head seemed louder than his own logic. What if he spoke and OJ, finds him weird? What if he finds him stupid like all those other kids before? The thought of OJ not liking his voice made him scared and insecure. Bom noticed the change of expression in Bomb's face and put a comforting hand on Bomb's shoulder.

"Hey, if you're not comfortable with it yet, don't worry about it. I'm sure he'll understand. He seems like a really nice guy."

Bomb thought for a moment and then nodded his head. Bom smiled and gave Bomb a playful nudge.

"Don't get too rowdy alright?" Bom then leaves, leaving Bomb to wait on his own again.

It was now 12:50 and ten minutes felt like forever. Bomb kept fidgeting around and pondered about getting up and getting himself a snack until the doorbell rang. He immediately jumped up and swung the door opened before the bell stopped ringing. He nearly hit OJ in the face when he opened the door with such gusto.

"Woah! Hi Bomb!" OJ laughed. Bomb blushed, he felt his stomach do a somersault.

"Hi!" Bomb signed, grinning wide. They kinda both stare at each others a bit until Bomb realized he should invite OJ inside. He quickly shuffled away to let OJ inside. OJ giggled as he walked inside.

"Should I take my shoes off?"

"No, you don't have too but if you feel comfortable that way you can!" Bomb signed as OJ took his shoe off and neatly put them to the side. Bomb decided to follow suit and took his sneakers off as well and placed them next to OJ's. They both smile at each others for a bit until Bomb signs at OJ again.

"I'll show you my room! Come with me!"

They both walk upstairs to Bomb's room. Bomb nervously watched OJ's expression, checking for any negative body language, but OJ smiled at him.

"I like your room! There's a lot of cute plants here." OJ giggled as he tapped on one of the succulents on Bomb's window shelf. Bomb sighed in relief.

"Thanks! Well, I got some sandwiches for us, and a movie! You don't mind horror right?"

OJ gulped, "I never watched horror movies before. My parents think it will mess with my studies but, I want to see it!"

"Good!" Bomb signed, smiling wide. "You're going to be so scared! I won't be!"

He lied.

Bomb was completely terrified. Terrified. Of scary movies. But he wanted to impress OJ, so he could be cool. But the whole time, he was on the edge of his bed, death gripping the blanket he's wrapped himself in. He glanced over at OJ who barely reacted to the movie.

"How are they not seeing the guy in the corner over there? They're going to die aaaand see? They're dead." OJ chuckled as two side characters were getting chopped up into bits. Bomb stared in disbelief at how relaxed OJ was. Then OJ turned to Bomb, "You okay? Are you scared?"

Bomb turned scarlet. "No way! I'm not scared at all! Just... chilly! Yeah! It's kinda cold in my room! Definitely not scared at all!" Bomb lied, signing frantically at OJ.

OJ looked at Bomb thoughtfully, then shyly extended his hand towards Bomb.

"You can hold my hand if you're scared."

Bomb looked at OJ's hand and then back at OJ. They both seem to blush at the same time, the noises from the movie seemed to melt away and all they could focus on what each others. Bomb then nervously reached out for OJ's hand until-

"AAAAAAARRRGHHHHHH!!!"

A blood curdling scream came from the movie, making both of them jump. Bomb screamed and hugged OJ for support, this causing OJ to fall backwards.

"WOAH! Hey, Bomb! It's ok! It's just the movie."

Bomb trembled a bit, he felt like his heart came out of his chest for a moment. Feeling how scared Bomb was, OJ hugged him comfortingly. It took a bit until Bomb calmed down, he slowly relaxed his grip on OJ. Then a moment passed until Bomb realized he was still hugging OJ.

"Sorry!" Bomb signed frantically after jumping out of OJ's arms, blushing a deep red, "I didn't mean to do that!"

"It's ok. It's a scary movie so I get that you got scared." OJ smiled, saving Bomb from further embarrassment. Bomb smiled nervously, his stomach felt like butterflies were flapping around frantically inside it. It was a bit of a confusing feeling, something that Bomb never felt before and something he hoped OJ might of felt as well. OJ then spoke again,

"Well, I guess we should stop watching the movie then, I don't want you to get scared again."

Bomb stared at OJ who was sifting through the CDs Bomb had. He felt like he was on the edge of his seat again. But not like how he was scared during the movie, it was nicer. Bomb felt his face turn warmer and warmer. His heart felt like it was fluttering a bit.

"What kind of movie do you want to see next? We can pick one of your favorites!"

"I-I-I like any m-m-movie that w-we can watch to-to-together..."

OJ stopped and stared at Bomb. That was the first time Bomb had ever spoken to him. A stunned silence permeated the room, and the longer it went on, the more Bomb started to overthink. Was it too soon for him to talk to OJ? Did he think he was weird? Did he stutter too much? Was the tone of his voice weird? Bomb started to regret every speaking up. What if Oj thought he was-

"I like your voice."

Bomb stared at OJ, not believing what he just heard.

"H-Huh?"

OJ blushed but smiled softly at Bomb, "I like your voice." He repeated. "It really soothing to hear your voice."

Bomb blushed harder then ever, this was the first time someone other than family complimented his voice. He always felt like his voice was ugly, like a broken record, and far from soothing. But here he was, OJ complimenting his voice and calling it soothing. Frankly he didn't know what to say, he wished that the butterflies scrambling in his stomach would make the words for him. Instead, they both stared at each others, blushing.

"T-Thanks..." Bomb finally spoke, looking away. OJ blushed and smiled softly, and went back to finding a movie. Even when they went back to watching the movie together, everything seemed like a blur, they only thought about that moment they shared. OJ then slowly pushed his hand closer to Bomb's and let his pinky touch Bomb's. Bomb blushed a deep crimson this time, and after a moment, he intertwined his pinky with OJ's. They sat there in complete silence, not really watching the movie, but their faces red and their stomachs being filled with butterflies.

(Moments before...)

Bom and Bomby were downstairs, making a little snack for themselves until they heard a scream.

"Woah! What was that?!" Bomby asked worriedly, dropping his cheese puff.

"We should go check." Bom said hurriedly, running upstairs to Bomb's room, "Hey Bomb? You okay-"

Bom stopped right in his tracks, seeing through the small crack in the door that OJ and Bomb were hugging. Bomby came stumbling after Bom.

"Hey Bom! Don't run up the stairs! It's exhausting! Anyways is Bomb ok-"

"We're going back downstairs."

Bomby made a face, "Why? I just killed my legs to get up here and you want to go down-"

"Just go! Go! Go! Go!!" Bom whispered angrily, pushing a confused Bomby down the stairs again.

Chapter Text

Another year of spring is in bloom. OJ sits under the same tree he met Bomb at years ago. They've just graduated high school and a lot has changed over the years. OJ has grown lot, Bomb used to be taller than him, now OJ was at least 2 inches taller. Bomb had gotten more confident over the years and started to talk without worrying about the bullies. Even if there was anyone who bothered him, he would be able to defend himself easily since he has been going to the gym recently.

"I-I-If I can't b-be taller, m-m-might as w-well be st-st-stronger!" He would always smile brightly.

Speaking of Bomb, OJ was waiting for him so they can hangout at his house for a change. OJ was able to please his parents enough to have them agree to having a break day and invite Bomb over to the house. They agreed to meet up before hand and walk to his house together. Bomb and OJ were still as close as ever, but OJ felt himself, feeling things differently with Bomb. Not in a bad way, but it was still strange. OJ always felt comfortable with Bomb and his other friends but, the way he felt towards Bomb, felt a tad bit different. Actually, not a tad bit, a huge bit. He never felt so, himself, with Bomb. It wasn't like any other feeling he ever felt before and it was so confusing. He just, naturally gravitated towards Bomb, more than anyone else. It just felt right. It always let OJ confused though, wanting to pin point what this feeling is. He wondered if Bomb felt the same way... Probably not though. Deep in thought, OJ didn't notice Bomb standing right in front of him before he bopped him on the head.

"H-H-Hey! E-Earth to O-O-OJ?"

"Huh?! Oh! Hey Bomb! Sorry, I was just," OJ hesitated, blushing slightly. "thinking about something."

A-Always deep i-i-in thought like u-u-usual!" Bomb chuckled lightly, nudging OJ playfully. OJ smiled tenderly at him.There was the feeling again, that weird, but delightful feeling. Maybe he was going crazy a bit. Who knows?

They both start heading towards OJ's house as they talked about what they should do. OJ mentioned a new game he had gotten from Steam, a farming game that he believes that Bomb will enjoy. Bomb seemed really excited, he always loved playing games with OJ. He enjoyed every moment with OJ frankly, he just reallllllly likes hanging out with OJ. Everytime OJ talks to him, looks at him, smiles at him, he feels like he's fluttering a bit. But that's normal friend stuff. Surely. They both felt the strange feeling in both of thier guts as they reached OJ's house.

"Here, come inside and we can-"

"OJ."

Bomb and OJ stopped at the door. OJ's mother was standing in front of the door. She seemed to glare at OJ, but slightly soften her gaze when her eyes rested on Bomb. Bomb has seen OJ' mother a couple times before, but she was a bit intimidating up close, especially when she's giving an icy glare to every person who walks in. Bomb gulped a bit and tried to make small talk.

"H-H-H-Hello..." Bombs stutters always gets worse whenever he's nervous. OJ's mother gives Bomb a certain look Bomb was way too familiar with. Disdain and annoyance the moment he spoke. Normally he would say something back but this was OJ's mother so, he sucked it up. She tuned her attention towards OJ however.

"OJ. I'm expecting that you still work on your piano lessons and not fool around too much."

She then stalked off into the living room. Bomb knew OJ's parents were intimidating but jeez they were on another level of intense in person. Bomb glanced over at OJ to read his expression. It was blank but he knew that OJ was trying to stop any sort of emotion from forming on his face. Bomb has seen any of OJ's breakdowns from the pressure from his parents and the multiple nosebleeds from working so hard. Today though is different. Today is OJ's day to be relaxed for once and just, hangout, like a normal kid. Bomb gave OJ a comforting pat on the back and OJ smiled at him softly.

"Well... We should go upstairs, I'll show you my new game!"

"S-Sure!"

Bomb and OJ went upstairs excitedly, giggling softly to not annoy OJ's mother. When they went inside, Bomb stared at the shelves of very hard looking books and the overall neatness of OJ's room. The total opposite of his own room. Bomb breathed in the gentle smell of citrus and clementines and smiled.

"I-I like your r-r-room! It's v-very, you!"

OJ giggled, "Thanks! I tried to make it neat since you were coming. Anyways, I got this new little game on my laptop! We should play together, it's free on PC! you have your laptop right?"

Bomb had gotten a new laptop from his grandparents last Christmas and brought it over so they can play whatever game OJ got. He smiled brightly, "Y-Y-Yeah! So w-what game is i-i-it?"

"It's a farming game called Stardew Valley! I know how much you like farming games and this is multi player so we can make a cute little farm together!" OJ grinned at Bomb. Bomb blushed, he would go on and on about how he loved games like Animal Crossing and Minecraft because he could make little gardens in them. OJ really does remember every small thing about him. That's why he likes him so much... PLATONICALLY of course. Bomb continued to blush softly as they both turned on thier laptops and OJ guided Bomb on where to download the game. While they were sitting on OJ's bed, waiting for it to download, OJ was explaining to Bomb the mechanics of Stardew Valley.

"So you're basically a farmer in this little town and try to fix up the place! It's really cute! Oh and you can date and marry some of the NPCs in the village!"

"M-M-Marry a couple o-of pixels? That's f-funny!"

"I guess so," OJ giggled, "I haven't tried to romance any of the NPCs yet since I stopped playing so we can play together. Oh! But since were playing multiplayer, we can technically marry each others."

Bomb stopped and stared at OJ. "R-R-Really?"

OJ stared back, thought for a moment and a soft blush peeked it's way to OJ's cheeks as he spoke softly, "I mean, I guess so..."

Bomb blushed back. A weird, fuzzy feeling was forming in his stomach again. It happens a lot, Bomb's noticed. Surely it was just a feeling of like, friendship but it was never like this with his other friends. It was strange and Bomb could never pinpoint what exactly this feeling was.but as much as it was foreign and strange for Bomb, he couldn't get enough of this intense but somehow gentle feeling.

Bomb leaned in closer to OJ, "Wh-What else c-c-can we do?"

OJ blushed and spoke in a hushed tone, "W-Well... If we get married, our players can, well, kiss... And we can have kids..."

"K-K-Kids?" Bomb repeated, blushing at the thought of it. Getting married to OJ, kissing him, having kids? OJ has always been a good friend to him, they even talked about living together as a joke before but, marriage? That's a... That's a lovers thing. OJ and Bomb are friends, not lovers. Just, really good friends that have little moments of really soft affection for each others. Nothing else. But why was the thought of it, so appealing?

Bomb and OJ stared at each others, blushing profusely. They both felt that fuzzy feeling, as the air seemed thickened with a tension around them. Not the bad kind of tension like in horror movies, but a, yearning of sorts? A yearning for what though? They both really didn't know, but they seem to instinctively lean closer and closer to each others. Thier foreheads almost touched as they both stared into each others eyes, blushing a deep red. The world seemed to stop around them, and OJ places his hand gently on top of Bomb and squeezed it gently. OJ and Bomb's faces were so close now, Bomb could almost count the little freckles on OJ's cheeks. You could almost cut the tension with a knife. OJ and Bomb then seemed to unconsciously moved closer, their lips near touching until-

"OJ, I brought you and your friend some snacks. Just don't get it on the floor."

OJ's mother burst into the door without knocking. Before she could notice anything, OJ and Bomb both jumped. Bomb fell off the bed, knocking his head on the ground and OJ jumped backwards into the wall, also knocking his head.

OJ turned scarlet from embarrassment and was sweating nervously, "M-MOM?! WE WEREN'T DOING ANYTHING I SWEAR- OH SNACKS?! THANKYOU,YOUCANLEAVETHEMOVERTHERE!! HAHAHAHA!!"

OJ's mother narrowed her eyes at her son who was breaking out in a nervous sweat and bright red, then shifted her gaze onto Bomb who was still on the floor, and then back to OJ. She then placed the snacks on OJ's empty desk and quietly existed the room, leaving both of the boys blushing bright red.

"T-T-That was s-s-s-omething...." Bomb tried to play off the situation as if it wasn't the most embarrassing moment of his entire life.

OJ blushed at Bomb, "Y-Yeah..."

After helping Bomb off the floor, they both quietly played their game, silently nibbling on thier snacks but the air was thick with that weird tension. Bomb couldn't help but wonder how OJ felt about that moment before they were interrupted but it felt weird to ask now, as curious as he was. He and OJ both made small talk but they couldn't look at each others in the eyes without blushing like a fool. After a couple of hours, Bomb had to get going. He packed up his things and OJ walked him to the door.

"Th-Thanks for having m-m-me OJ."

"No problem! Uhm... Sorry for, what happened..."

Bomb blushed, "I-I-I don't mind... It w-w-was funny..."

OJ and Bomb stared at each others, blushing. Not daring to speak about what happened.

"W-W-W-Well! I-I-I gotta g-g-go! I-I'll see you to-to-tomorrow?"

"Hm? O-Oh! Yeah! Right. Tomorrow. I'll see you tomorrow."

OJ waved goodbye as Bomb waved back blushing and walked home. He watched his figure turn smaller and smaller in the distance and disappeared as he turned the corner. He closed the door and locked it, then kinda stood there, head against the door, blushing softly. OJ couldn't help but wonder what would of happened if they had a couple more seconds of privacy in his room. He and Bomb have shared many hugs before but this was, a whole other level of, physical touch that OJ was not used too. He never, ever was that close to Bomb before physically. He could practically feel his breath when their foreheads touched. And his lips were so, so close... OJ blushed as he replayed that moment over and over in his head, that he didn't notice his mother standing behind him. OJ jumped when he finally noticed her standing there, arms crossed, glaring at him.

"M-Mom? What are you-"

"OJ. You know you're not supposed to let dating get in the way of your studies right?"

OJ stared at her, in total shock. "W-What?"

"You are not allowed to date any girl... or boy."

OJ blushed and stared at her completely bemused, was she talking about Bomb?

"M-Mom, I dont know what you're talking about but-"

"We didn't raise you this way. "She said coldy, "Do not. Disappoint us."

She then walked off, leaving OJ completely bewildered. Was his mother implying that he and Bomb were... No, they're just friends. Surely Bomb would never harbor feelings like that for him. He was so, boring, compared to Bomb. OJ racked his head to figure out what could possibly make him, worthy of love from someone like Bomb. He then wondered if Bomb did have someone he liked. If he did, would he still hang out with OJ? OJ felt a twinge of, something bad, sting his heart. He didn't really know what it was, but the thought of Bomb, liking someone made him feel, negatively. OJ pondered there for a moment, but the more he thought of it, he felt more and more confused and lost in his feelings. He then went upstairs and laid on his bed, remembering what had happened hours ago. He blushed as he hide his face behind his panda plush Bomb got him all those years ago. With butterflies fluttering in his stomach, he tried to forget all of his thoughts with no avail.

(Bomb's Home)

Bomb had reached home, but the whole walk there, his mind had been buzzing with what happened in OJ's room. The smell of citrus, the soft blanket underneath him, the buzzing from his laptop, the softness of OJ's hand on top of his, OJ... Bomb blushed heavily as he unlocked the door to his house and walked inside, taking off his shoes and looked up to see Bomby and Bom giving him a look. Bomb looked at them bemused.

"W-W-What?"

Bomby snickered as Bom rolled his eyes and spoke in a monotone voice, "What's up with you lover boy?"

Bomb blinked, "E-Excuse me?"

"You heard me. Did something nice happen with a certain orange boy?"

Bomb blushed bright red. Bomby squealed and shook Bom, "OOOOOOOO!!!! DID SOMETHING REALLY HAPPEN?! DID YOU TWO KISS?????"

"N-N-NO!! OF C-C-COURSE N-NOT!! W-W-WHY WWWOULD YOU T-T-THINK THAT?!"

If Bom could roll his eyes even further, they would be stuck inside his head. Bomby giggled and Bom sighed, "Bomb, it so obvious that you like LIKE him."

Bomb turned scarlet. He didn't like like OJ! They're just really close friends! Friends who have very tense moments and maybe touch foreheads and hold hands and stuff.

"I-I-I don't like O-O-O-OJ that w-w-way..."

"Sure you don't." Bomby teased, as he walked off laughing, leaving a furious, blushing Bomb with Bom. Bom put a hand on Bomb's shoulder.

"Whatever you feel about OJ, just make sure you're honest with him ok? I don't want my favorite cousin's first crush story to be a disaster unlike someone."

Bomby shouted from the other room, "IT WAS ONE TIME!!"

"WHO THINKS IT'S ROMANTIC TO PLACE A BUNCH OF BANANA PEELS ON THE FLOOR TO SHAPE AS A HEART?! MIND YOU, YOUR CRUSH SLIPPED ON IT AND BROKE THEIR WRIST!!"

While Bomby and Bom argued with each others, Bomb was quietly having an existential crisis right in front of the door. There was no way he had a crush on OJ. Bomb never had a crush before, nor did he ever think about having a relationship. Well, they would be nice but no one really appealed to him. He never felt that "spark" people got when they first see thier crush. But maybe, with OJ it was different. After he got to meet OJ and learn and grow with him, he found himself getting this weird, fuzz inside him. Bomb wasn't sure what it was. Is it just really deep friendship? Or was it more? If he, like liked OJ, then he would have to ask him out, go on dates together, hold hands, and maybe kiss him? The later made Bomb blush a deep scarlet, the thought of kissing OJ made his stomach do flips.

"Hey Bomb? You okay?" Bomby waved his hand over Bomb's eyes who didn't respond. Bomby then turned to Bom, who was staring at Bomb, slightly amused and disappointed, "I think we broke him."

Chapter Text

Bomb and OJ never talked about what happened that day in OJ's room. The sunlight spilling into the room, the smell of citrus, the quite chirps of the birds outside the window, the hum of the game's soundtrack, thier hands intertwined, foreheads pressed together, the sparkle in each others eyes. It was too much for either of them to process, such a intimate moment that would surely shaken their long friendship. Both had so many things to say, but the fear of losing each others overpowered their questions and denied themselves answers. OJ and Bomb would go about their days, trying to move past what happened, but the memory was burned into their minds.

Bomb was in his room, day dreaming again.  He replayed every second of that day in his mind, at breakfast, lunch, dinner, baths, watering his plants, every second was filled with thoughts about OJ. If he and OJ had gotten a millimeter closer that day, just a smidgen, they would of... Bomb blushed and cringed in his bed.

Why am I even thinking about this? he pondered as he cover his scarlet face with his blanket, I shouldn't be thinking about kissing my friend... But, I kinda want too... Is that, so weird? 

A sudden knock snapped Bomb out of his head as he looked up to see Bomby and Bom at his door. Bomb stared at them with a confused expression.

"W-W-What do y-you want?"

"We're here to snap you our of your delusions and make you finally realize that you have an massively annoying crush on OJ." Bom sighed as he rolled his eyes.  Bomb bushed at him, mouth agape and eyes wide.

"Don't give us that look Bomb. You're in the state of denial right now but, seriously, you're like a puppy in love. Bom and I just want you to stop suppressing your feelings." Bomby explained gently as he walked over to Bomb's bed and sat next to Bomb. "I'm sure you were day dreaming about him again right?"

Bomb blushed bright red and stared at the ground. He didn't even have to look up to know what kind of look Bom and Bomby were giving him right now.

"I-I-I-I don't l-l-like-"

"HUSH!" Bomby pressed a finger to Bomb's lip, interrupting him mid sentence. "Don't even try to deny it."

Bom sat at Bomb's empty chair near his desk, "Do you get fluttery feelings when you see or think of OJ?"

Bomb thought about it. Bomb did think that OJ is very pretty. A lot of people at school thought that too. OJ has such beautiful, bright, long orange hair that reminded him of the sunset. His beauty mark  under his eye and the faint freckles on OJ's face made it look like he had stars on his face. Oh and those eyes. Those lovely, kind, emerald eyes. So full of thought and fondness, mesmerizing, enchanting. Oh how Bomb could stare into those eyes forever if he could. He did feel pretty shy whenever OJ would smile at him or look at him. Frankly, every moment with OJ felt like he was on cloud nine. The way he would call out his name... It felt like he was flying. Bomb found himself imaging himself and OJ together. His hand on top of OJ's. Gently holding his cheek. He wanted to pull OJ close, have their foreheads touch again, feeling his breath on his own, listening to the rhythm of his heartbeat. Just a smidgen closer would make his world spin, bringing OJ closer to him, and then maybe they could-  Bomb blushed at himself and then looked up to see Bom and Bomby making a face.

The "oh my gosh, you are an idiot in love" look.

"W-W-What?"

"Oh you little lover boy... I pity thee..." Bom sighed as he shook his head while Bomby cackled loudly.

"Y-Y-You guys d-don't know a-a-a-anything!!"

"We know more about crushes than you Bomb."

Bomb immediately went quiet. He knew they were right, but a crush? On OJ? Well, he always was very kind to Bomb, patiently and thoughtfully. And maybe he liked the way OJ smiled at him. And maybe Bomb dreamed every night of kissing OJ. The thought of being lovers instead of friends, was, quite lovely actually the more Bomb thought about it...

Maybe Bomb, does have, a small, tiny crush on OJ.

Before Bomb could say anything back, his phone buzzed. He checked to see that it was a text message. From OJ. Bomb blushed, Bomby and Bom noticed and smirked.

"Oooooooo!"

"S-S-Shut up!"

Bomb nervously opened his messages and read OJ's message.

Hey Bomb! I was wondering if I could meet you at the tree. I have something important to tell you.

Bomb's heart skipped a beat as his hand trembled.

Could it be?

Bomby and Bom looked over Bomb's shoulder and read the message and smiled.

"Go get your man Bomb!" Bomby giggled as Bom gave him a supportive thumbs up. Bomb blushed and then raced out his room, scrambling down the stairs (tripping a bit) and hastily putting his shoes on and shooting out the door. What could OJ have to tell him? Could it be? That he felt the same way? Bomb blushed as the rush of adrenaline made him run as fast as he could to the tree where they met all those years ago. As he got closer,he saw the familiar figure of OJ near the silhouette of the tree. Bomb felt his face flush as he ran up to OJ as fast as he could, ignoring how much pain his legs were in. He nearly tackled into OJ when he tried to stop, catching his breath. OJ stared at him in surprise, as Bomb was literally gagging and gav him a couple of minutes to collect himself. Bomb then looked up at OJ, beads of sweat forming on his face, face flushed as he breathed heavily.

"O-O-OJ? W-What d-d-did you want t-t-t-to tell m-me about?"

OJ blushed, he seemed to be hiding something behind his back. Bomb blushed, was it maybe a love letter? Bomb stared at OJ tentatively, waiting for a response. After a moment, OJ spoke.

"I-I wanted to ask you something."

Bomb blushed as the tension in his heart rose, "Y-Y-Yeah... Wh-What is i-i-it?"

OJ fidgeted with his hands behind his back, hesitating. What could OJ possibly want to say to him at this very moment? It was driving Bomb crazy. He just wanted to spit it out already about how he felt about OJ.

"O-O-OJ I lik-"

"Do you want to compete with me on this show?"

OJ cut Bomb off before he could finish.They both looked at each others confused.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to cut you off Bomb! What were you going to say?"

Bomb flushed with embarrassment and tried to play it off, "O-O-Oh! It's... n-n-nothing... W-W-What about t-this show?"

OJ then pulled out a flyer from his hand, that was what he must of been hiding behind his back. Bomb had to admit that his hopes had deflated a bit.

"It's a show called Inanimate Insanity! It's a reality TV show and if you win, you get a million dollars!"

Bombs eyes widened when he heard the amount, "A-A-A million?!"

"Yeah! I wanna compete and win it... So my mom could finally be proud of me!"

Bomb stopped himself from frowning. OJ was so desperate all the time to seek love and attention from his mother. It was saddening honestly. How hard OJ tried to win love from his mother but never getting it no matter how hard he tired. But he wanted to be supportive of OJ, and hey, maybe this will finally get him the love he wants from her. Bomb wanted to see OJ happy.

"T-T-That sounds c-c-cool! I-I-I'm down t-t-to compete!"

OJ smiled wide, "I was hoping you'll say yes! I know you like thrilling shows like this and i was scared to compete alone!" he blushed, "I'm glad you'll come with me."

Bomb blushed as well. Perhaps this wasn't what eh was expecting to happen but to compete with OJ for a pretty cool prize was kinda nice. And hey, maybe if Bomb won, he could give the money to OJ and confess to him there. Bomb blushed at the thought of it.

OJ and Bomb both discussed how they needed to enter and they just needed to send a letter with their names and information to the address on the flyer and wait for a response. They both then decided to go to the post office together and write up their letters. Thy both excitedly talked about what they would use thier prize money for. OJ talked about a hotel and Bomb mentioned a nice greenhouse for his plants. While they were walking to the post office, they passed by a trash can. Without Bomb noticing, OJ had placed a crumpled up letter into the trash can.

I chickened out...But maybe it was for the better. Bomb would never reciprocate these feelings, and I don't want to lose him over a stupid love letter... 

OJ then left the crumpled up love letter in the trash as he walked away to the post office with Bomb.

Chapter Text

A field of untouched grass rustled in the wind, dancing in the breeze as Bomb, OJ and 12 others stood around aimlessly. Some were standing by themselves, others were talking and getting to know their peers/competitors, others seemed to have already known each others, like Bomb and OJ.

"That's a lot of people." Bomb signed. New places and people made him nervous so signing helped out a lot. OJ knows him very well and gave Bomb a comforting nudge. "I'm sure they're all nice people." OJ signed reassuringly to Bomb, who gave him a small smile. As nerve wrecking it was to meet new people in a completely foreign environment, Bomb was glad ot have OJ by his side.

Frankly, he hopes that he would always be by his side. Bomb's face hues a faint red, now that he realized that his feelings for OJ is a bit more than platonic, it was hard to get him off his mind, or act remotely casual. Well, it's not like Bomb wasn't always flustered around OJ, he was always a bit of a wreck around him but now its 10 time worse with the awareness of a harmless crush on his best friend.

Sometimes Bomb wonders if OJ shares the same feelings as well. Out of the years that they have spent together, OJ had never had a crush on anyone. Though OJ was quite popular, especially with the girls at school, probably it was his stellar grades (even if his mom is a huge jerk about it). Maybe it was how mature he was compared to the other boys in class (the way his childhood was had forced him to be more independent when he shouldn't have been). Or maybe it was his eyes (Bomb swears they're like emeralds, so pure and always glistening with a vibrant hue. He could stare into them forever and let all his worries melt away. And he means that in the most friend way possible). Perhaps OJ just, wasn't into people. He always seemed too busy to bother in romantic feelings, despite one of his favorite genres being romance. Bomb also swears that OJ's eyes would linger at him, but always look away with a blush on his face when Bomb catches him. Maybe he was overthinking it. OJ then snapped Bomb back to reality after he prodded Bomb's cheek with a slightly puzzled expression.

"You ok? You've been spacing out a lot." He signed.

"I'm alright! Just, a bit overwhelmed."

"It's ok! I'm here for you." OJ smiled softly at him.

Bomb blushed. "Thanks."

Before they could blush even further, a robotic looking man in a blue vest approached them and the other contestants.

"Greetings and salutations! I am your host, MePhone4! And this is Inanimate Insanity! A show where these contestants compete for $1,000,000!"

Bomb glanced at OJ, who seemed nervous, but visibly excited. Another glance, he saw the same type of reaction from his peers. Some determined, some mildly interested, some overly excited.

"The challenges they will face will be gross, disgusting and deathly!"

Some of the contestants faces turned. Deathly is something you don't really want to hear in a competition you're in. MePhone then explained the rules of the game, how one person will be eliminated each episode via voting. Now their first challenge was to, literally jump off a cliff.

"Okay, so the first challenge will be to jump off this 60-foot cliff. The first two contestants to jump off the cliff wins! And get to pick this season's teams!"

"This should be easy." A tall, scarred guy with silver hair who stood next to Bomb chuckled.

It indeed, was not. The winner had to jump into the pool of water, and avoid the elephant feces (Bomb saw the same silver haired guy explain to another contestant with white hair and pink and blue eyes what feces was). Who in the world thought this was okay?

"Don't worry guys! I have loads of experience jumping off cliffs!" A green eyed contestant said proudly.

"Wait, what does that even mea-" Before the red haired baseball guy could finish, the green eyed guy jumped off, screaming, and fell into the feces. ("That's disgusting!")

Bomb peered over the ledge, as he saw a girl with a poncho kick another girl off the ledge despite a small grey haired guy screaming not too. Bomb then looked over at OJ.

"You gonna-"

"Absolutely not." OJ signed before Bomb could finish. He chucked softly.

"Figured. I know you want to win but not this badly right?" Bomb signed while laughing. OJ sighed.

"Yeah, no. Not only can I not swim, there is no way I'm diving into elephant feces."

"Me neither! Let's just sit and wait until team leaders are picked."

OJ smiled at Bomb, "Sure!"

OJ and Bomb waited a very long amount of time, but took the time to talk to some other contestants and play around in the field, trying to chase after a random butterfly. OJ talked about the different types of butterflies and what makes them different. Bomb tried to catch one for OJ but ended up face planting in the dirt and swallowing said butterfly. It tasted like burnt toast. OJ laughed hysterically while Bomb tried to wipe the dirt off his shirt until finally, two leaders were picked. One was the overly excited Lightbulb, and the self-centered and quite rude Balloon. Much to the disgruntlement of Balloon, MePhone informed him that they would be picking teams next episode. And just like that, the very first episode of Inanimate Insanity was over.

"I hope we're on the same team." Bomb signed worriedly. It's not that he isn't able to hold on his own, its just that he rather have OJ as his teammate than his opponent.

"Me too. What if we fight because we're on opposing teams?" OJ signed.

"I doubt that would happen! We're really close you know? Our friendship won't break over a silly competition!"

OJ pondered for a moment, then nodded. "You're right. Sorry, I tend to overthink."

"It's fine! I know you're really cautious like that. Now then, we should try to get to know our possible teammates!"

OJ nodded and then started walking towards the crowd as Bomb trailed behind. His eyes strayed to OJ's hand. The desire to entwine his fingers with OJ's was unbearable but he Bomb didn't want to make things awkward. So he kept his hands in his pockets, walking behind OJ, content with their current relationship, but at the same time yearning for more.

For anyone wondering, this is what the cast looks like as humans:

Chapter Text

It's been a couple of months of competing. OJ was worried he wouldn't get along with his teammates since they all had pretty colorful personalities, but surprisingly it's been going pretty swell. He became fast friend with Pickle, who was a pretty laid back and funny guy. He's not the brightest, but he sure is loyal to his friends. His tight friendship with Taco was evidence of that statement. through pragmatic, OJ and Taco has gotten along pretty well (through their shared loved of panda bears, as well as Lightbulb too). Salt and Pepper, OJ found them mildly annoying with their "likes" and dull gossip (which OJ fell victim too in episode 2), but they were no where near as insufferable as Balloon. He tried to make an alliance with him and Bomb but that ended up with the whole team turning on their "leader" for being an overall jerk to all of them.

Bomb had gotten along well with the team as well, even somehow becoming friends with Knife ("H-H-He's pretty n-nice once you g-g-get to know h-h-him!") But despite these new people, Bomb and OJ are still as close as ever. They've always stuck together, like when Bomb helped OJ after Baseball hit him with a rock, doing the relay race with Pickle, and when they went trick or treating together. He does admit that he's happy that Bomb is with him competing but there has been some, feelings going on that OJ doesn't really like. It made him feel... not like his usual self? OJ's usually calm, cool, collected, but he finds himself feeling like a hot mess around Bomb. Sometimes the words he wants to say doesn't come out and he looks like an absolute idiot, or he'll completely lose focus and somehow trip on nothing. Just real embarrassing things.

Like when they went trick or treating, Bomb had to lift OJ up to get some treats off a tree. He aways knew that Bomb was much stronger than him, but lifting OJ up with such ease was impressive.

"Are you sure I'm not heavy?"

"Y-Y-You're as l-light as a-a-a feather!" Bomb grinned at him goofily. OJ blushed as he fumbled to get the treats on the tree.

"Thanks..."

"D-Do you feel u-u-uncomfortable?"

"Huh? Oh! No! I don't- Woah!"

Flustered, OJ stumbled and lost his footing. Bomb caught him before he hit the ground thankfully, or not really thankfully as OJ turned bright red in embarrassment.

"Y-Y-You good?" Bomb chuckled.

"I-I'm fine." OJ did his best to look casual, but his heart was beating so hard he thought his ribs were going to break. Bomb then OJ down, laughing a little.

OJ replays that night over and over again in the back of his mind and couldn't help but mentally slap himself for being such a fool. He's always been a bit of a fool around Bomb. Before they went to compete in Inanimate Insanity, he tried to write a heartfelt love letter to confess his feelings but chicken out. Test Tube, who helped hm write that letter, was beyond upset when he called her afterwards of what had happened.

"I spent the whole day, helping you, you absolute. JEEBWEEZER. To write a beautiful, romantic love letter, to this boy you've been crushing on. FOR YEARS. AND YOU CHICKEN OUT AND THREW IT AWAY?!?!?!?"

OJ spent that whole night getting lectured by his enraged cousin. Part of him wishes he wasn't such a coward and confessed right there and then, but the overwhelming fear of losing Bomb because of a letter scared him. To him, it wasn't worth losing years of friendship because of unnecessary feelings.

"H-H-Hello? O-O-OJ?" Bomb waved a hand over OJ's eyes that snapped him out of his train of thought. He stared at Bomb, dumbfounded as he snickered at him (he could of sworn he saw a tint of red on Bomb's cheeks as he smiled at him).

"W-W-Wanna start the c-c-challenge?"

OJ completely forgotten about today's challenge. It was to find the perfect Christmas tree. It was cold and chilly so it was the perfect season to find a decent Christmas tree. Paintbrush and Marshmallow semed to have chased after Apple after upsetting her by telling her Santa isn't real instead of finding a tree so they had an advantage. Bomb seemed pretty excited to find the perfect tree.

"Oooh! I wanna get a t-t-tree!"

Before OJ could respond, Salt pushed past him and jabbed a finger into Bomb's chest, making him take a step back.

"No! I'm getting the tree with OJ!"

OJ glanced at Bomb, who looked at Salt a bit irritated by her rude gesture and quickly stepped in between them before Salt said anything further.

"Why don't we just all go together?"

"Ooh! that one over there!" Pickle pointed at a tree in the far distance. It looked promising if it wasn't across a frozen lake.

"But we'll have to cross that frozen lake over there!" Salt whined. As much as OJ disliked Salt, he had to agree as well. But Pickle rolled his eyes.

"Do you wanna win or not?"

So with no other choice, OJ, Bomb and Salt tried their hardest to skate across the lake. OJ and Salt slipped and fell many times while Bomb seemed to have gotten the hang of skating, helping up OJ whenever he fell. Though this made him flustered and slip up even more, at one point, he knocked his head on the ice. Thankfully the ice was thick enough to withstand all of thier weights. Salt see, to always insist that OJ should help her up instead of Bomb. Oddly, she tried to cling onto OJ, which he found super uncomfortable. He never liked physical contact so much, but Salt was overly touchy, tring to grab his arm or cling onto his sleeve which he tried to pull away from.

"Well, uhm... this is kinda like ice skating!"

OJ raised a brow at Salt silently, trying to decipher what kind of bizarre sentence was about to come out of her mouth.

"Kinda... Seems like a romantic setting right?"

If the ice below him could crack and sink him underwater, it would be much nicer than being here in this position right now. OJ never felt more uncomfortable in his life.

When OJ glanced at Bomb for help, he noticed that Bomb had a certain look on his face. Whatever that expression was, it was negative. Maybe he was uncomfortable watching Salt try to attach herself onto OJ like some oversized leech. Maybe it was concern since Bomb knows that OJ doesn't like touchy people. But it seemed more complicated than that.

Perhaps, it was jealously?

Thankfully Bomb came to OJ's aid and quickly put himself between him and Salt. He started talking about how excited he was to get the tree while Salt seemed annoyed that Bomb "third-wheeled" them. Now they were getting closer to the end of the lake, thank god, it was freezing. OJ shivered a bit, a collared shirt and suspenders could only do so much against the winter cold. While he mentally slapped himself for not bringing a coat earlier, insisting that he would be fine, he felt something being draped on his shoulders. Bomb had taken off his hoodie and loosely adorned OJ with it.

OJ blushed and sputtered, "H-Huh?"

"Y-Y-You seemed cold."

OJ felt blood rush to his cheeks, "Oh. Uhm... What about you? Aren't you cold?"

Underneath his hoodie, Bomb was only wearing a T-shirt, but he shrugged and laughed it off, "I-I-It's not that b-b-b-bad! Don't w-w-worry about it!"

OJ stared at Bomb as he laughed so casually, with his dimple peeking out whenever he smiled. OJ gripped Bomb's hoodie and wrapped himself around it and smiled shyly.

He never felt so warm in his life before.

Finally, they reached the end of the lake. Finally they can take the tree the've been perilously skating for. But the tree, was so, ridiculously, small.

Salt whined loudly, "This tree sucks! It's so little!"

"Our distance from the tree must of caused an illusion to make it look bigger." OJ deduced.

Salt batted her eyes at him (ew), "Wow OJ... You're so smart!"

OJ stared at her, completely bemused then she approached him. "You know OJ," she approached him with a mistletoe in hand, making OJ lean back, extremely uncomfortable, "I've been-"

"H-H-H-Hey g-g-g-guys! We should get back now."

Bomb, once again, put himself between Salt and OJ, giving Salt a small glare. OJ hid behind Bomb, which is kinda hard to do since Bomb is shorter then him, but anything would do to get away from Salt. Salt rolled her eyes and pointed at the tree.

"Alright fine. Let's just use the tree as a sled."

Getting on their makeshift "sled," Salt decided to st right behind OJ, clinging onto him. If he could take a shot every time Salt made him uncomfortable, he would probably be in the hospital, which honestly sounded pretty good now just so he can get away from her. OJ leaned forward to get away from her, leaning onto Bomb. Maybe Bomb felt how uncomfortable OJ was, because he grabbed Oj's hand and rubbed his thumb on top oh his hand. OJ blushed and buried his head onto Bomb's shoulders, as tired and icky Salt made him feel, having Bomb there comforting him made everything a bit better. He couldn't wait until this challenge was over.

Chapter Text

The sun was beating down on the glistening pale yellow sand as the breeze carried a tumble weed across the desert. After a freezing cold challenge, it was to the next extreme of swealtering heat. A challenge in the desert was ridiculous, but at least it wasn't during the summer. Bomb sighed as he wiped a bit of sweat off his brow, one day he'll smack MePhone for these weird challenges. But immunity was a prize that everyone wanted so maybe it was worth crossing the desert for, plus another "amazing prize" MePhone hinted at. He wondered what this amazing prize was but Bomb had other things to worry about; how to win this challenge.

"Bomb, look at these cactuses!"

OJ pointed in front of them, there were cacti everywhere. As much as Bomb loves plants, a prick from a cacti was not what he needed. Especially now. Ever since last challenge, he was feeling, uneasy. Before, Bomb never really had to worry about his relationship with OJ and kept his feelings pretty hidden, but Salt was starting to catch some feelings for OJ now. The way she was so shameless with her sudden obsession with OJ frankly made Bomb extremely... jealous? If OJ rejected Salt's advances, which he has been doing ever since the Christmas challenge, she had really nothing to lose. If Bomb confessed to OJ about these feelings he kept hidden for years, he'll lose not only years of friendship, but OJ as well. If those years weren't standing in Bomb's way, he would of confessed already. Maybe OJ would of rejected him or maybe they would be boyfriends already and get to kiss and hold hands. As much as he loves OJ, Bomb couldn't find it in himself to lose someone as amazing as OJ in his life. It was frustrating, exhausting, and kept him on edge. But Bomb had to push that all inside again and try to push through this challenge. Right now, they had to figure out how to cross through all these cactuses.

"W-W-Well, we could-"

But before Bomb could finish his suggestion, someone pushed him aside and excitedly shouted.

"I'll save us!"

Bomb stumbled back in shock as Paper kicked down a cactus that went flying, taking down some other cacti. Some of the water that was stored inside the cactuses splashed Bomb in his face, and he grumbled and frowned at Paper as he wiped his face. Right. He had nearly forgotten about Paper who rejoined the competition today. Bomb had never really talked to Paper because 1; he and Paper were on opposing teams and 2; Paper was eliminated before they could properly interact. So far, not very good first impression for Bomb. But Paper seemed eager to give OJ a good impression as he smiled excitedly at OJ.

"Woah, that was-"

"Pretty cool right?" Paper smiled at OJ, "I take taekwondo! So I figured kicking them down will be a good way to make a clearing!"

"Well... I guess so, but it was a bit uncalled for..." OJ muttered, glancing at Bomb who was glaring at Paper.

Paper pouted and huffed, "Just run OJ!"

As he turned away and ran head first into a cactus.

"Ah! OJ! Go on! Without me..."

Seriously? Bomb rolled his eyes to this embarrassing display. OJ just kinda stood there, stunned and trying to process all that happened.

"Okay."

"What?!"

Bomb chuckled a little as he and OJ left Paper struggling to pry himself out of that cactus. But now thoughts were seeping into his head again. Paper wasn't trying to impress OJ right? He really didn't need another person to worry about trying to sweep OJ off his feet. Salt was obsessive and OJ clearly didn't like her but it was still uneasy to know she was trying to bother OJ. But now he has to worry about Paper, who was impressing OJ with his charms. He didn't like it one bit.

"Hey, you okay?"

OJ nudged Bomb slightly, bringing him back to reality. OJ looked at the shorter man with a face full of concern, his brows furrowed in worry. Bomb hated making OJ worry about him. He already had enough to deal with and Bomb didn't want to add onto that. Even if OJ was going through the worst moment of his life, he would always take care of others instead. Bomb knew him very well, so he refused to let himself become a burden to OJ. So he played it off with a smile.

"Hmmm? O-O-Oh! I'm fine! J-J-Just wondering w-w-what kind of prize M-M-MePhone is gonna g-give us!"

One strained laugh and Bomb hoped OJ wouldn't worry no more. It seemed to have worked as OJ chuckled softly, but he still had a glint of worry in his eyes.

"Alright then, but you can tell me if something's bothering you, you know?"

Bomb bit the inside of his cheek. There were so many things he wanted to tell OJ. About the contest, his insecurities, his worries, Salt's weird obsession with OJ, Paper making him feel uneasy, his jealousy, his feelings. Years of hidden affection towards OJ was trying to burst it's way out of Bomb's mouth, wanting to be heard and listened too. But dumping out all these thoughts out to OJ right now didn't seem like a good idea. So he swallowed back all of the yearning in his heart, and forced a smile.

"I-I-I know, but I'm o-o-okay!"

OJ smiled softly at him, but the worry didn't leave his face. They walked under the searing heat in silence, getting through the electric fence by 1, throwing OJ over the fence and 2, Bomb threatening the security guard to let him through, and escaping both quicksand and Tyler Bungard. They were definitely in the lead as everyone seemed to be way behind them, struggling with cacti and fences. Though as more time passed as they walked and walked for hours, the heat was surely getting to them. Bomb was thankful that he could take off his hoodie and that he was wearing shorts and a T-shirt so it was a bit cooler. But OJ, OJ never liked hot temperatures, so he was getting pretty irritated, which Bomb couldn't really blame him since he was getting a little on edge as well. Blistering heat plus internal conflict does not mix well. Finally OJ and Bomb saw the finish line, now they could get out of this stupid desert, but who is going to win the immunity? Frankly, Bomb just wanted to get out of the heat, cool down and just forget about all of the emotions boiling inside him.

"Uh oh! Only one of us can win."

While OJ was thinking of what to do, Bomb was feeling really really on edge. Bomb has been going through it the past couple days. Salt was being overly clingy and really creepy with OJ, Paper was now someone else he needed to worry about because of the advances he tried to take on OJ earlier today, he's been feeling terrible all day with all this jealously, Bomb's insecurities and anxieties and all the feelings towards OJ he's hidden is almost at a bursting point that made him want to throw up, and the sweltering heat is making his brain melt. He sweaty, tired, irritated, anxious, jealous, insecure, and just really really really wanted to just leave. Then the next thing he knew, his mouth moved before he could think rationally.

"L-L-Look. T-this is taking t-t-too long. I-I-It should be me." Bomb said curtly.

OJ paused and glanced at Bomb his face frowning.

"Hey. You've been off all day. What's wrong?"

Bomb really didn't want to have his conversation right now in the desert when they are literally two steps away from on of them winning immunity, so he snapped at him.

"L-L-Look. I just w-w-want to get out o-o-of here."

Bomb took a step forward, he felt like he was going to throw up. This challenge was making him feel too much and Bomb wanted it to stop desperately. But before he could leave this all behind him, OJ stepped in front of him and stopped him. The look of worry in his eyes was breaking his heart and making Bomb feel much worse.

"Bomb. Seriously. What's wrong? This isn't like you."

Bomb just stared at the blindingly white sand below him. He couldn't look OJ in the eyes. He didn't want to say another word. He wanted to crawl up in a hole and just hide away from everything he was feeling.

"I-I-I don't want t-t-to talk about t-t-t-this now."

Bomb tired to push past OJ. Any more of this and he feels like he's going to burst. But OJ stopped him again, putting a hand on Bomb's shoulder gently but firmly.

"Bomb... You can tell me anything. I'm not going to judge you. Just tell me what's wrong. We're friends right?"

Friends. Bomb hated that word. He knew OJ meant well and wasn't trying to upset him but he was starting to hate that word. It blocked him from telling OJ everything. That he wanted to be more than that. To kiss, to hold, and love OJ. All he wanted to do was to hold hands with OJ and talk about silly things like they used too but with more intimacy. But none of that can happen because to OJ, Bomb was just a "friend." It made his stomach turn in an uncomfortable and disgusting way.

"Look. I-I-I have nothing t-t-to say to y-you. Y-Y-You always being i-i-n your head d-d-doesn't really help me."

Oh.

He shouldn't have said that. But Bomb felt so upset and angry and it was too much. Everything was starting to burst.

"In my head? What are you talking about? I'm just trying to think rationally about what to do and-"

"W-W-Who tries to t-t-think rationally in a-a-a-a desert?!" Bomb yelled. Every gross feeling that was building up inside him was starting to come out. "J-J-Just let me get i-i-immunity. You're helpless w-w-w-without me."

"Helpless?"

Bomb heard OJ's voice crack. He should stop and apologize, but he felt so angry and hurt and frustrated. Not at OJ, but at himself, for letting himself bottle up everything and letting it burst out at the worst possible time. He should stop, but his emotions took action for him instead of his head.

"A-A-All this t-t-time, I-I've been helping y-you! W-W-Without me, y-y-you would still b-b-b-be at that s-s-stupid fence!"

OJ stared at him, completely shocked. Then he gritted his teeth.

"I don't know why you're acting like this but how could you say that? I'm just trying to think about how to get through these challenges with you. You think I'm just latching onto you because I'm useless on my own?!"

Bomb could tell OJ was fighting back tears, he immediately felt guilty for yelling at OJ. He messed up so bad. He has to stop.

"O-OJ, I-"

"After everything I do for you, I think I deserve it. I'm smarter."

SMACK.

OJ stumbled back. He held his cheek that was starting to become red. It stung but the pain was an after thought when OJ looked at Bomb, who had tears streaming down his face.

"H-H-H-HOW COULD Y-Y-YOU SAY THAT T-T-TO ME?! Y-Y-YOU KNOW WHAT T-T-THEY SAY A-ABOUT ME! A-A-AND YOU... YOU..."

Bomb never felt so hurt in his life before. Way before he met OJ, everyone around him would make fun of his stutter. They thought he was stupid because of it. All of them pointing and laughing at him. The memories of all the hurtful words he had to endure flooded back when OJ said that and finally, everything was bursting from his pained heart.

"Y-Y-YOU KNEW! YOU ALWAYS K-K-K-KNEW!! YOU'RE S-S-SUPPOSED TO BE D-D-D-DIFFERENT!!"

Bomb sobbed uncontrollably. His voice cracked and he chocked on his tears. Suddenly he was that kid hiding in the trees again. All alone.

"Y-You were the only o-o-one... Who didn't t-t-think I was..."

OJ stared at him. He knew he hurt Bomb. He walked towards him carefully.

"Bomb, I-"

Bomb shoved him backwards. OJ fell back onto the sand, and he looked up at Bomb. His eyes were tearing up. Bomb just wanted this to be over. Every second looking at OJ made him feel like he was being torn apart. He took a step back from OJ and bolted towards the finish line, winning immunity and an amazing prize. But none of that mattered anymore.

He already lost everything.

Chapter Text

A trip around the world was the "amazing prize" Bomb and Bow got for the desert challenge. Oh how amazing it was! A free trip! around the globe! That's probably more than a $1,000,000 with eh cost of plane ticket, hotels and tourist spots. And not only that, Bomb and Bow had invited everyone to the trip! (Except for Balloon) Everyone was excited and chattering the whole time on the plane. Paintbrush was excitedly talking to Lightbulb about visiting the Leaning Tower of Piza while she was munching on a whole baguette, Salt and Pepper were begging Baseball to take a picture of them when they reach the Niagra Falls, Pickle wass showing Taco tourists spots at New York, and Nickel was calling his cousin Coiny about meeting up at Washington to catch up. Everyone was buzzing, everyone except Bomb, who barely uttered a single word as they reached thier next destination.

Of course it was exciting to go travel around the world with your best buds but Bomb was not in a vacation mood. And the fact that they're visiting the pyramids of Giza did little to help Bomb forget about the last challenge. His and OJ's friendship of over 10 years, was completely shattered because of that stupid challenge. It was so hard for him to even be there the entire trip. Bomb didn't speak to OJ because he had no clue what to even say to him. And OJ refused to even look at him the whole trip, sticking around with Paper. It made him feel sick. Normally it would of been him laughing with OJ, seeing popular spots together, sharing snacks together, having fun. But now, its radio silence between them. Bomb was used to being alone and silent when he was younger but now, it was unbearably uncomfortable and nauseating and it was all because of OJ.

Bomb didn't even know how to feel about OJ as of late. He was angry, he misses him, and upset. Sometimes he felt like he should apologize to OJ for the hurtful things he said. But other times he felt justified of his anger after OJ mocking his intelligence. The concoction of negative emotions swirling around Bomb's stomach rapidly was making his head spin. If only the sand below him could swallow him whole. That would be so much better than being stuck with these conflicting emotions. He felt sick and nauseated. If only he could stop feeling so overwhelmed, actually, how did Bomb keep himself from being sick and confused. If only Bomb had him there... Then Bomb felt a small gentle tap on his shoulder. Bomb turned around excitedly, a bit of hope rising into his chest as he spoke.

"OJ?"

There stood Knife, sliver hair glistening in the sunlight, face heavily scarred, and with a slight frown.

"Do I look like a ginger to you?"

Oh. It's just Knife. The excitement quickly faded into obscurity. Of course it's Knife. OJ wouldn't want to talk to Bomb at all. Knife obviously noticed the visible deflated look in Bomb and spoke gruffy.

"Something  happened?"

Bomb felt blood rush to his face and he quickly looked down. Suddenly the sand was very interesting to look at. Bomb heard Knife sigh and rummage through something in his pocket.

"Look, let's talk under the tour bus. There's a bit of shade there and it's f*cking hot out here."

"W-W-Well maybe wearing a-a-all black in the desert i-i-isn't a good idea."

Knife rolled his eyes and beckoned Bomb over. Bomb trailed after the sliver haired man, with a quick glance, Bomb noticed the cigarette in between Knife's fingers. As they reached the shade, they both leaned on the bus wall. An awkward silence ensued as Bomb kinda spaced out while Knife lit the cigarette and took in a breath of smoke. He let out a long exhale as Bomb's nose scrunched up a bit with the smell. After a brief silence, Knife finally spoke.

"So, you and OJ broke up or something?"

Bomb turned bright red again in stock as he sputtered, "W-W-What?!"

Knife gave Bomb a raised brow as he spoke matter of factly, "You and OJ aren't a thing?"

"N-N-No!"

"What? I thought you guys were based on how much you two spend time together." Knife put the cigarette between his lips again, "So what, you two like, not into each others?"

"W-W-We're just..." Bomb felt a lump n his throat, "We're j-just friends..."

Knife examined Bomb's body language and then smirked, "Ooooooh... I see how it is then lover boy."

Bomb turned to face Knife in shock, "W-W-What?"

Knife exhaled another huge cloud of smoke. "Well it's obvious to anyone with two working brain cells that you're into OJ. I swear, if I took a shot every time you two blush at each others, I would be in the hospital."

Bomb blushed. Was it really that obvious? Sure he caught himself smiling or lingering his eyes on OJ and blush when he catches him but. Did everyone really know? Well, even if they did, it doesn't matter now. OJ hates him and Bomb was still angry and hurt by OJ as well. Right now, his feelings were in a complicated twist.

"W-W-Well, I don't. Not a-a-anymore..."

Knife spoke softly, "You seemed pretty excited when you thought I was OJ." Bomb's face turned red as Knife continued, "Look, I'm not sure what happened between you two, but I know it wasn't pretty. You're usually a guy who never shuts up but I haven't heard you say a single peep."

"I-I-I just... Dont know w-w-what to do..."

How do you even start rebuilding a relationship, let alone a friendship when you slap your crush, insult them, and push him? Bomb wanted to apologize to OJ, to hug him again, take back the words he knew hurt OJ, to wipe and kiss away the tears off of his freckled face but...

I'm smarter.

Those words spiralled in Bomb's head every time he thought about apologizing to OJ. He had confided in OJ about how his classmates used to bully Bomb for his stutter, believing that he was an idiot for not being able to speak normally. He trusted OJ, as he smiled and comforted Bomb that night he told him. And now he said the same thing that his bullies used to say. It broke Bomb's heart into little bits. Bomb bit the inside of his cheek as the bitterness consumed him and he balled his fists. Knife noticed Bomb's internal pain and gave him a comforting pat on the back.

"Hey. If it's overwhelming for you, just take your time. Something sh*t happens and you can't control it no matter how hard you try. But what you can do is how to react and take on that sh*t. Don't let it break you Bomb. And I'm sure it can be fixed"

Bomb felt tears starting to form as he felt the smallest bit happier ever since the desert challenge. He quickly blinked away the tears though, not wanting to make Knife uncomfortable and spoke shakily, "T-T-Thanks man..."

Knife grunted, throwing away his dead cigarette, "It's whatever. I like you. Not in that sense, wipe that look off your face. I just wanna help out a good friend."

Bomb  smiled at him, Knife sighed again as he grinned slightly, ""There's the chatty plant obsessed shortie I know!"

"F*ck y-y-you!" Bomb chuckled a bit, playfully hitting Knife's shoulder. 

"Hey! Easy there! Not everyone's as built like you man!" Knife laughed as he rubbed his arm, "Come on, let's go back and take a picture of the pyramids. I'm going to sending them to my brother later!"

Bomb nodded and followed Knife back to everyone else. As they took a picture together at the pyramids, maybe he should try to enjoy things for now. Until he and OJ make up somehow.

.

.

.

When they finally finished their trip, Bomb and everyone said their goodbyes to the eliminated contestants as they returned to Idiotic Island. Marshmallow and OJ were showing MePhone the pictures they took along the trip, even though he didn't care very much. He wanted to go straight into the elimination, so they all, reluctantly went to the elimination area. Today's prizes were bendy straws (woop-di-fricken-do). Bomb and Bow got their bendy straws since they both got immunity. Pickle and OJ were also safe from elimination, thankfully. Bomb always liked Pickle and his slightly aloof yet well meaning loyal friend and well OJ... It was complicated but OJ still, means something to him. He should really say something to him. Not speaking to OJ felt like torture and Bomb wanted to make things better with him. He made up his mind to talk to OJ once elimination was over.

Once Paintbrush and Salt were eliminated, MePhone announced a swimming challenge where they had to find the gold coin. Alright, this is the time now. Just walk up to him, apologize, explain his feelings and start things over hopefully. So Bomb hesitantly walked over to OJ, who seemed to be having a bit of a heated conversation with Pickle. Bomb approached behind OJ, trying to keep it casual.

"H-H-Hey OJ!"

Surely it will go ok.

Except it didn't. 

"Don't play dumb!" 

Oh. Bomb flinched as OJ was full of anger. Usually OJ never showed how upset he was and whenever he did, it was always very mild rants. But now, he's absolutely enraged. Bomb saw his face flushed with anger, and maybe, was that a tear in his eye?

"You betrayed our friendship last episode!" His voice shook as he continued, "You pushed me aside just so you can win the prize! And you stabbed me in the back!"

Bomb turned pale, "O-O-OJ I-"

"I don't want to hear it! You think just pretending that nothing happened and come casually talk to me is going to change anything? I spent that whole day worrying about you, and you..." OJ's voice cracked. "You thought I was a burden the whole time?"

"N-N-N-No! I-I-I! F*ck!" Bomb sputtered, trying to calm OJ down and explain to him about everything but his stutter was making it hard to communicate. He felt frustrated when his words wouldn't come out the way Bomb wanted to. "P-P-Please OJ I-"

"I said I don't want to hear it!" The color on Bomb's face drained, "I'm making a new alliance..."

Bomb felt like he was going to cry. OJ refused to listen to a single word he wanted to say. Before he could retort, a voice piped up.

"Ooooh! An alliance? Can I join?"

Paper. Paper appeared next to OJ, grinning shyly at him. Bomb went from wanting to cry to wanting to push Paper out of the way. Every time he wanted a one on one with OJ, Paper seemed to always pipe in somehow.

OJ glanced at Paper, then at Bomb and sighed, "You know what, sure. We can be in an alliance." He glanced at Bomb, who was staring at him, mouth agape, "Without Bomb..."

With that OJ and Paper left Bomb there, stunned, as they walked off. Bomb had to take a moment to process everything, and instantly he felt sorrow and anger at the same time. He was trying to make an effort to make an apology to OJ but he didn't even let him finish his sentence. That wasn't like the OJ Bomb knew. He stood there, going through every single wave of negative emotion until someone nudged Bomb softly.

"Hey, you okay?"

Bomb looked up to see Pickle staring at him with concern, Taco standing behind him with her scuba mask upsidedown.  

"O-O-Oh... Yeah..."

Pickle looked extremely unconvinced, but didn't want to press it further thankfully, "Well, if you need to talk, you can talk to me buddy. Say, you gonna do the challenge? You can come look for the coin with us."

"O-O-Oh... Uhmm..."

Bomb glanced at Pickle who was smiling at him comfortingly, to Taco who was chewing on the scuba gear. Then his eyes fixated themselves onto OJ and Paper. Paper had brought a boat from somewhere, which was good because Bomb knew that OJ couldn't swim and was a bit worried on how OJ was going to do this challenge. As Paper placed the boat into the water, he was excitedly talking to OJ, who smiled softly at him. Bomb felt his heart sink.

Then OJ glanced back at Bomb. They made brief eye contac, then OJ looked away. It was hard to read his expression, but it was more than enough for Bomb to know. He quickly looked up at Bomb, fighting back the tears that were about to start pouring down his cheeks as he strained a smile.

"I-I-I think I'm g-g-going to sit this o-one out."

Maybe Knife was wrong.

Nothing can be fixed.

Chapter Text

It's now the final two. Pickle and Paper were both eliminated in one episode. Now fame, fortune and glory was so close to grasping. 16 contestants who fought relentlessly for $1,000,000 and now its just Taco and OJ.

OJ should be happy about this. He was so close to taking it all but all he ever feels nowadays is guilt. Nobody noticed however, since OJ is pretty good at hiding his true feelings under a pile of lies and fake self confidence. 

I'm smarter.

OJ physically felt sick. Why did he say that? He should of known better. He and Bomb were friends for so long that he should of never dared to utter those words. OJ doesn't think he could ever  look at sand without feeling soul crushing guilt and shame. The desert, how Bomb refused to talk about what was wrong frustrated OJ, but he didn't expect Bomb to snap at him like that. He just wanted to make sure he was ok because OJ cares about Bomb more than he could put into words. So he felt so, so angry when Bomb tried to talk to him again. All he wanted was to help but everything escalated to fast, and then Bomb tries to act like everything was ok when it wasn't.

Helpless.

OJ's not helpless. After all, he's gotten all the way here. OJ was able to think of ideas to push through these challenges. But, he had help the whole way. From Paper, Taco, Pickle, Bomb... Wait, has OJ ever done anything on his own accord before? All  his life, OJ just followed what everyone else did. His mother always guided on what to do, what to study harder on, how to dress, how to speak to people. How to be a good son...

How to be her perfect replica...

Why was he fighting so hard  for her approval anyways? Everytime, OJ tried to make her smile at him, to bring her his next award for her to be proud of. But nothing worked. No shiny medals and certificates ever made her smile at him. 

I just want you to love me... What am I doing wrong?

OJ felt his chest swell in pain as he trembled, tears threatening to burst from his eyes. It took him 18 years to finally get it. 

Why fight for the approval of someone who will never be satisfied?

What am I doing? OJ felt lightheaded. I... I don't know if I should be here... I don't deserve to be here...

OJ was fighting a losing battle for his mother's approval and it costed him greatly. He lost his sense of self, his self esteem, and he lost Bomb because OJ prioritized someone who didn't love him over Bomb. Someone who was actually there for OJ from the start, and showed him the love OJ yearned for. But he threw it all away and now there was nothing between them but guilt and sorrow. A million dollars could never fill the void in OJ's heart now

OJ shouldn't stand here. He shouldn't be here. Everyone fought so hard to be here for a reason, but OJ now has no reason to stand here in the final two. OJ crouched down on the ground and he shook violently, gasping for air. It was hard to breath. He felt like he was about to be torn apart with the amount of pressure OJ felt in his chest. He was usually good at keeping his composure and holding his feelings inside but the fury of emotions where too much for him to bear right now. The tears finally made it's way out of his eyes and OJ started to sob.

"Bomb... I'm sorry... Please forgive me..." OJ sobbed into the empty and cold air, hugging his knees.

He felt like he was being buried alive.

Chapter Text

Bomb sat quietly with everyone else in the bleachers as the race between Taco and OJ. Though he himself and everyone (besides Pickle) was sitting on OJ's side, Bomb still didn't know how to feel about OJ. On one side, he missed him dearly, on the other side, he felt angry with OJ. Bomb bit the inside of his cheek in frustration. Why must feelings be so complicated?

Bomb and Knife had breifly talked before MePhone let them all out of Idiotic Island.

"So, what are you going to do when you see OJ again?"

"I-I-I don't know..."

Knife sighed in frustration, rubbing his temple, "Again with the 'I don't knows.' You do know what to do. Deep. Down. Inside." Knife jabbed Bomb's chest as he said those words. "Look. Do you hate his guts to the point you want him to explode into shards of glass?"

Bomb looked at Knife, flabbergasted. "N-N-No! I just-"

" 'I just don't know how to feel about that stupid ginger because of what he said but I feel badly about what I said to him because I know he has his own trauma about feeling useless and I hit his face when he insulted me for my stutter so I'm in the state of wanting to never speak to him again and wanting to kiss and makeup.' "

Bomb just stared at Knife, mouth agape. Knife sighed for the millionth time, "Good thing I was born with silver hair or else you would of given me grey hairs... Listen, I get you feel that way about OJ since you two were basically all over each others and were really fricken close and you two hurt each others but, you two gotta talk to each others again. To just, bring closure or something."

Bomb repeated what Knife said to him over and over again in his head. Does OJ even want to make up with him? He's a sensible guy, but it would be hard to forgive someone for slapping your face and shoving you to the ground. The situation he was in sucked because they both were in the wrong for how they reacted. Bomb groaned as he put his head in his hands, but he perked up to a familiar voice.

"Now the final challenge is what I like to call the master challenge!"

MePhone started to explain to everyone about how this "master challenge" was to go through every single challenge ever. Bomb kinda zoned out what MePhone was saying and focused on OJ, who seemed to be standing very still. Bomb knew OJ very well, he usually stands very rigid when he's nervous. But he seemed, more off than usual. OJ seemed to look pale and his usual emerald eyes that was full of determination and curiosity, was replaced with a worn with dark circles around his eyes as if OJ hadn't slept in a while. His eyes seemed puffy and swollen as well, as if he cried for hours. Suddenly OJ's eyes flickered towards Bomb's. Their eyes made contact for a split second until they both simultaneously looked away. Bomb felt guilt creep towards him again. He had caused those tears. But so has OJ to him. It was such a complicated standing they were both in. 

How do they even attempt to talk to each others?

"Let's not waste any time! You guys ready?"

OJ seemed to snap back into suppressing everything again and tried to smile at Taco, "Good luck Taco!"

Taco only laughed, but it didn't feel like her usual cheerful and nonsensical laugh. It felt a little bit more sinister...

"Start!"

And just like that Taco bolted with a speed that took everyone aback. OJ stod there stunned for a bit until chasing after Taco as well. Everyone was cheering, as they watched both of the finalists' silhouettes disappear slowly. Bomb stood still in his seat, he wanted OJ to win, but he mostly wanted to be able to talk to him again like before. Well, like before probably would not happen given the fight between them, but still, Bomb just wanted to hear OJ talk about pandas again. While Bomb reminisced about all the times he and OJ would talk, someone tapped him on the shoulder. It was MePhone with Nickel in tow, grinning brightly.

"Okay Bomb! You and Nickel and coming with me to help out with one of their challenges!"

Bomb blinked at him, "Wha-"

Before he could say anything else, MePhone dragged Bomb out of his seat and took him and an aggravated Nickel out to one of the obstacle courses where there were two big brown baskets. The basket said "Put contestant in bin, then you can move on to challenge 15."

Oh no.

"So you two are going to be chased by either Taco or OJ and they have to put you in this bin! After that, you two can come back!"

Bomb felt his stomach turn, "U-U-Uhh...I don't w-w-want to-"

"Nickel! Taco will try to catch you and Bomb! OJ will try to get you okay? Okay! Thanks for volunteering you guys!"

MePhone immediately turned his heel and bolted straight out of there, Nickel yelling out sarcastically, "Oh yeah! We're realllyyyyyyy excited to do this."

Bomb started sweating bullets, he wanted to talk to OJ but not in this way. What does he even do? When OJ gets here, do they just talk right there? In front of Nickel? Or go somewhere else to talk? Does OJ even want to talk? What if he just chases him, puts Bomb in the bin and then leaves? All these questions made Bomb's head spin and he started to feel a bit nauseous until some footsteps brought him back to reality. Taco reached them and OJ was nowhere in sight.

"Oh uhh... Try to catch me and put me in this bin."

Awkward silence.

"Umm..."

"You know what?" Nickel stepped inside the bin, "No worries..."

"SOURCREAM!"

Bomb watched as Taco sprinted forward to the next challenge. OJ was never the athletic type but Taco was sure letting him eat her dust. Then, not even a couple seconds later, Bomb heard some huffing. Bomb turned to see that OJ made it to challenge 14, out of breath but still here. He glanced up to see the bins and Nickel spoke.

"Uhm, catch Bomb and put him in the bin"

OJ and Bomb locked eyes.

Silence.

"Bomb I-"

Then Bomb ran away from OJ as fast as he could. He didn't even know why but Bomb wanted to run as far away from OJ as he possibly could. OJ stood there in stunned silence until Nickel coughed very loudly and snapped OJ back to sprint towards Bomb's direction. Bomb was very fast, considering he was the most athletic out of the two. He zipped and bolted around every nook and cranny. 

Why am I running away from OJ? Bomb pondered as he sprinted. He knew why though. Bomb was scared that OJ would never want to make up again. The fear of reliving that desert challenge again was the reason why his legs kept going even though they were aching in pain. 

"BOMB! PLEASE WAIT!!"

Bomb heard OJ shout from behind him. He wanted to stop and turn around to hug OJ once more but Bomb was so scared of reliving those painful moments again. Bomb kept going at break neck speed as he heard OJ's footsteps behind him. Suddenly his rhythm went off.

"Gah!"

Bomb instinctively spun around to face OJ and say that OJ had slipped and fell on his face. Dirt and grass was on his knees and face as OJ wiped a bit of blood from his nose from teh impact. Bomb hesitated. He wanted to help OJ up but, the overwhelming fear of being rejected was strong. He couldn't go through that gai. Bomb never wanted to feel like he was that little kid in the tree ever again. He took a step back and turned to run away from the dread and-

"Please wait..."

Bomb stopped dead in his tracks. He turned slowly to see OJ, his face glistening with tears.

"I'm sorry."

Chapter Text

Bomb stared at OJ as he got up from the ground.

"I'm sorry."

He felt a mixture of emotions swirling in his stomach. Bomb didn't know what to say. He was happy that they were talking again but, it felt strained. Bomb tried to speak but the words refused to go past his lips.

"I-I-I... uhm..."

Bomb stared at the ground. It was frustrating. Bomb hated that about himself. Whenever he tries to speak, it never comes out right because of his stutter and the stares he gets right after. It felt awful. Then Bomb felt hands holding his and looked up to see OJ gently holding his hands. Whenever Bomb got frustrated, he would hold his hands carefully and patiently waited for him to collect his words. He blushed a bit as OJ softly smiled at him.

"You don't have to say anything Bomb. I was in the wrong afterall."

Bomb stared at OJ as he continued, "I shouldn't have ever that I was smarter than you because I'm not. I'm clueless about everything I do. I don't know how to do anything without someone telling me what to do. But I try to hide it though because I didn't want to let anyone down. And I let those insecurities ruin the relationships around me. I let it hurt the ones who mean the most to me..." He hesitated.

"I hurt you."

Bomb felt the OJ's hand tighten around his hands as he continued to speak.

"I should know better than to ever say that to you. I acted terribly and pushed you away when you wanted to make up. Nothing can excuse that... So-"

His voice cracked. OJ took a deep breath and spoke softly, his voice slightly wavering, "I hope we can be friends again... I'm sorry..."

Bomb stared at OJ. His face was full of shame, guilt and regret. It's been months since they had spoken to each others in a positive manner. Right now, nothing felt more important than to make up with OJ right now. So Bomb answered softly.

"I-I-I would love that..."

OJ smiled brightly at him and quickly embraced Bomb tightly, making Bomb blush at the sudden gesture. OJ was never the one to do physical affection, especially hugs. Making up with Bomb must mean a lot to him. Bomb blushed harder at the thought and hugged OJ back, sighing softly. He had missed this. He missed OJ so dearly. Bomb's ecstatic that they're friends again.

"I've missed this... I've missed you..."

OJ whispered, resting his head on Bomb's shoulder. Bomb blushed, as much as he liked being close with OJ, another second of this might make him explode.

"Uhh... O-O-OJ... Y-Y-You have a-a-a race to finish.I w-would hate to b-be the reason y-y-you lost."

"Oh! You're right! I completely forgot... Sorry, i kinda got.. carried away..."

OJ let go of Bomb and he immediately regretted piping up. He already missed the warmth that was quickly fading away. OJ blushed softly, "I just missed you a lot..."

Bomb and OJ blushed at each others and then OJ grabbed Bomb's hand, "Well, I gotta take you back then."

He'd completely forgot that he was supposed to bring Bomb into the basket. OJ led Bomb in the direction of the basket, still holding Bomb's hand. Bomb peered at their interlocked hands and bit the inside of his lip. Usually he's all for physical affection, but it's been so long since Bomb and OJ had touched and a lot of emotions where running high. He was starting to worry if his hands were getting sweaty and started to panic a bit internally.

"You know... Y-You don't have t-to hold m-m-my hand.."

OJ didn't respond. Did he not hear him? Bomb was about to speak up again until OJ suddenly squeezed his hand tightly. Bomb turned bright red as his heart raced. He stared at the back of OJ's head and saw a slight tint of pink on OJ's ears. Bomb blushed and looked down as he trailed after OJ.

He was going to replay this moment in his dreams for eternity.

Finally they reached back to the baskets. Nickel only made a huff in acknowledgement as OJ helped Bomb into the basket. "T-T-Thanks..." OJ rubbed his arm, "No problem..." Awkward silence. Bomb felt like saying a million things to OJ, but he had a race to finish. What is something he could say that can reassure OJ that everything's completely cool and doesn't make him look like a pinning fool?

"Hey."

OJ turned his head to face Bomb. Bomb hesitated, fidgeting with his fingers as he spoke, "I-I-I'm rooting f-for you OJ..."

OJ stared at Bomb, not uttering a word.

F*ck.

Bomb felt like disappearing on the spot as he blushed in embarrassment. Did his ecstasy of rekindling with OJ cause him to say something extremely embarrassing? OJ probably thinks that Bomb is a bumbling love sick fool. Bomb quickly looked away from OJ as he internally screamed at himself, Why did I say that? Now I look like an idiot-

Bomb then felt a hand on his shoulder. Before he could turn around, OJ moved forward and kissed Bomb on the cheek.

Bomb left like he was going to explode right there on the spot. He felt his whole body freeze as he felt OJ's soft lips on his blushing cheek. Though it only lasted seconds, to Bomb, it felt like time had entirely stopped as he held his breath and his heart was running a marathon to the moon and back. OJ then pulled back and before Bomb could even start to breath normally again, a scarlet OJ turned his heel and high tailed out of the area.

"WELL I GOT A RACE TO WIN!! BYEEEEEEE!!"

Bomb held his cheek as he watched OJ's silhouette turn smaller and smaller, his blush stil visible from afar. For once, Bomb was completely flabbergasted, blushing, trying to process what happened. When this race was over, he had a lot of things to say to OJ.

While Bomb stood there dumbfounded, trying to think of the right words to say after he sees OJ again, he didn't notice another person there. Nickel, who had witnessed everything, was incredibly annoyed at the disgustingly soft and sickeningly sweet PDA he had just witnessed.

"Are you serious?"

Chapter Text

In a large, light filled room was full of laughter and cheers in the air. OJ had just won Inanimate Insanity and decided to put the money into something they can all enjoy. Everyone was chattering excitedly, Lightbulb ate thousands upon thousands of cookies as Baseball watched in concern, Salt and Pepper talked about getting a treadmill for their legs, Marshmallow was putting up a frame of Bow on the wall. It was a very cheery room, except OJ wasn't with everyone celebrating. He was making a phone call.

He was carefully dialing the numbers on a landline telephone. OJ's hands were trembling slightly as the string of numbers were forming into a cell number. He was calling someone he knew very well since he was born. The phone then rings for a little bit, as OJ put the phone close to his face, anxiously waiting for a certain someone to pick it up.

"Hello?"

OJ's face lit up, "Mom? Hey it's me, OJ!"

There was a pause, "OJ?" She repeated, "What do you want?"

OJ beamed in excitement as he nearly squealed, "Mom! I have the best news for you! I-"

"OJ I'm not interested in anything you have to say."

OJ stared at the phone, dumbfounded. "W-What?"

He hears an loud and annoyed sigh, "OJ. Honey, I'm tired of disappointing me all the time. I've poured so much effort and money, even costed my own beauty for you to succeed, but you never surpass Test Tube. I thought having a son that would excell would guarantee your father and I live comfortably in retire ment but,"

"You're utterly hopeless..."

OJ felt a pit in his stomach as his mouth went dry and his eyes started to water. "But mom I won-"

"OJ. I don't care."

"No mom, you don't understand. I-"

"I don't care what second or third place prize you've gotten. I'm tired of you never reaching my expectations. Look I have to go see your cousin accept her award for best science experiment. Don't call me unless you've actually proven yourself to me."

*click*

OJ stared at the phone as the beeps echoed in his head. She was supposed to care about this. Though OJ kinda expected this outcome, but he didn't want to  believe it. But now he stands like a fool in front of the telephone, fighting back any drop of tears from escaping his tired face. OJ gripped the phone and tried to steady himself before he goes back with everyone in the party. He didn't want to bring the mood down. He took a deep breath and before he could take another one, someone tapped him on his shoulder.

"OJ? Y-Y-You ok?"

OJ quickly turned around and saw Bomb, who was looking up at him with concern. Frankly, he was the last person OJ wanted to see him like this. Not only was he a mess from the race after being tripped by Taco, he kissed Bomb on the cheek and had absolutely no clue what to say to him. 

"I, uhm..."

Bomb carefully scanned OJ's face and gently took his hand, "L-L-Let's talk outside..."

OJ blushed, "Uhm... Okay..."

OJ trailed after Bomb, blushing still as they weaved through the crowd to go outside. Some of them gave them a little look and then looked away, not caring too much. Nickel glanced at them, glanced back at their hands and then rolled his eyes and started whispering something to Baseball. Salt also saw them, made an audible gasp and whispered to Pepper and pointed at Bomb and OJ. Pepper pretended to care but she seemed happy that Bomb and OJ were together as Salt was oozing with jealously. Knife was in the middle of a conversation with Pickle when he saw them both from the corner of his eye. He smirked at them and then said something to Pickle who giggled a bit. OJ blushed a bit at the attention they were gathering a bit but Bomb payed no mind to them. They were about to open the door to stand outside until they bumped into Paper.

"Oh hey! You guys going outside?"

OJ blushed, "Y-Yeah! For a little bit, I need some air."

"Oh I see." Paper glanced at Bomb and then at their hands. He stared at their hands for a moment until smirking a bit,  "Hmm, I see, I see!"

He then leaned into Bomb and whispered something in his ear, causing Bomb to blush furiously and give Paper a teasing nudge. Paper laughed and then stepped aside for them,  'Well, I won't  bother you guys anymore! I'll see you later then!" Then Paper turned around and went back to everyone, talking to Knife and Pickle. OJ was a bit confused but Bomb opened the door and OJ winced at the sudden cold breeze. It was quite dark out but the light from inside illuminated the grass around them, just enough so they can properly see as they walked a bit further out. OJ shivered a bit in the cool night breeze but was mostly focused on Bomb, who seemed to be deep in thought. They stopped at some forestry nearby, still close enough to see the party, but far enough so they have privacy. OJ leaned on a tree while Bomb stood nearby. Now that they have that, they should start a conversation right?

Awkward silence.

Shoot. Gotta start a conversation. OJ thought. He shifted around in his spot until opening his mouth, "So uh-"

"T-T-The moon's b-b-beautiful tonight."

OJ stared at Bomb, taken aback, "Huh? Oh! uhm, yes! Yes it is!"

"W-Who were you t-talking to?"

"Oh! It was my mom..." OJ shifted uncomfortably, rubbing his arm. "It, didn't go very well..."

Bomb nodded carefully, "I-I-I see... I'm sorry a-a-about that OJ."

OJ smiled a bit, "It's nothing. I'm... I'm done with trying to chase after her... There's no point in trying to find affection from someone who doesn't care..."

Bomb nudged OJ slightly, "I th-think that's for the b-b-best."

"Yeah..."

Another awkward silence. OJ blushed a little, "Uhm, about the race... I didn't uhm, make you uncomfortable right?"

Bomb  blushed and looked off to the side a bit, "W-W-Well, it did b-b-but... I-I-I-I..."

Bomb seemed to struggle a bit with his words. His stutters gets pretty bad when he's nervous. OJ always found it a bit cute but right now he was worried if Bomb was uncomfortable saying what he wanted to say. OJ tried to think of something quickly and then an idea popped in his head.

"Do you want to use sign language?"

Bomb glanced at OJ, and nodded. He then signed to him carefully.

I just didn't expect it you know? I didn't know you, liked me in that way.

OJ blushed a little bit, Well I. I mean I do like you, but if it makes you uncomfortable we could just be friends-

Bomb quickly signed back, No! It didn't! I really like you!

Both men stared at each others in complete silence, blushing uncontrollably. The night breezes whispered softly around them as the crickets chirped and the fireflies lightly illuminated the sky around them.

No words were spoken, but the silence spoke a thousand words. The endless silent words that spoke of years of yearning, unspoken affection, and fear of rejection. But most importantly, the silent words of love.

OJ blushed softly, sentences weren't forming in his mind. What do you say when someone you've been secretly in love with confesses his feelings for you?

I really like you too... OJ signed. He didn't even know what to say but the words were coming out without him even registering it. His hands moved unconsciously. I've liked you for a really long time. I think when we first met, I liked you a lot because you were the first person to reach out to me.

Bomb blushed and signed shyly, Me too. Falling out of that tree was the best thing that happened to my life.

OJ giggled as he remembered that spring day when Bomb fell from that tree. He remembered the sparkle in his eyes when OJ started to sign to Bomb. He smiled at the memory, and flickered his eyes towards Bomb who was also smiling widely. Before he knew it, the words escaped from OJ's mouth.

"I love you so much Bomb."

He felt his cheeks turn hotter and hotter. He must of looked like a tomato. OJ quickly hid his scarlet face with his hands. Oh why did he say that? It was probably too early for that kind of confession. The embarrassment was too much for the ginger to handle until he felt a soft hand on his. OJ felt his hands being pushed aside and his emerald eyes stared directly at Bomb's warm brown ones. His face was flushed as he spoke softly.

"D-D-Do you mean t-t-that OJ?"

The night breeze seems to get louder as OJ and Bomb peered into each other's eyes, faces flushed. OJ felt like his face was on fire, Bomb and OJ held their breaths as Bomb tightly held OJ's hands. OJ bit the inside of his cheek as he leaned a bit forward towards Bomb.

"I do..."

The moon illuminated both of their faces, giving their eyes a beautiful glow. Bomb held OJ's hand tightly as they both held their breaths, hearts racing. Bomb leaned in closer, enough that their noses nearly touched. He placed his other hand on OJ's face and gently rubbed his thumb over his cheek. OJ felt himself melt into his soft touch.

"C-Can I kiss you?" Bomb whispered softly.

OJ blushed furiously at his question but nodded, closing his eyes and leaning in. Bomb panicked a bit slightly, not thinking OJ would accept but there was no backing down now. He felt himself become flustered and quickly shook his hands to get his nerves calm. Bomb shakily placed his hands on OJ's waist, and leaned in carefully. Their lips pressed against each others softly. It was a bit of an awkward kiss, given that this is both of their first kisses but it just felt to right. It was hard to describe, but it was just, right. Like the world around you had faded and melted away, leaving nothing but the moon lit skies around and the person you're kissing. This moment was something both Bomb and OJ didn't know they yearned for more than panda bears, more than plants, more than a million dollars. Just the gentle touch of the other's lips.

Bomb leaned back, already missing the soft warmth of OJ's lips but needing to breath and to check if everything's a dream. OJ looked dreamily at him, oh how pretty did those emerald eyes he fell for all those years ago glistened and danced in the subtle moonlight. The closeness of their bodies being in a tight embrace. His smile. It was too much for Bomb.

It has to be a dream.

So Bomb bit OJ.

"OW!" OJ yelped as Bomb quickly retracted. OJ rubbed his shoulder as Bomb hurriedly apologized.

"S-S-Sorry! Sorry! I-I-I just thought, t-t-this was a dream!"

OJ chuckled a bit as he rubbed his shoulder, "Usually you're supposed to pinch yourself but I guess that works too." Bomb laughed a bit before his lips were sealed shut by OJ's, as he leaned down and gave him another kiss. When OJ parted from him, Bomb stared at him, mouth agape and face flushed.

"Sorry! I just, well, couldn't help but kiss you again." OJ laughed softly.

Bomb felt his face burn even more as OJ laughed. He then leaned in and put his handson OJ's waist, causing him to squeak a bit in surprise. "W-W-Well, I wanna kiss y-y-you again too!"

Bomb pressed his lips back to OJ's, pressing his body closer to his, wanting more warmth. OJ reciprocated the embrace by wrapping his arms around Bomb's neck, playing with Bomb's dreads with his slender fingers, reeling him closer. They parted, their foreheads pressed together, gazing into each others' eyes.

OJ whispered softly, "I love you Bomb..."

"I-I-I love you t-t-too! I think I-I-Iv'e been in love w-w-with you since w-we first met." Bomb breathed softly. OJ smiled and nuzzled his face into Bomb's shoulder as Bomb held him close.

"That makes the two of us then..."

Bomb blushed, "W-W-We should get back. I don't w-w-want to worry everybody..."

OJ nuzzled into Bomb's shoulder one last time until lifting his head up to give Bomb a soft peck on the cheek. "Okay!"

Bomb and OJ held hands tightly as they walked through the grass as the moon gazed at them from above. Faces blushed and hearts pounding.

It truly was a beautiful night.

Chapter Text

This starts off after Bomb asks about kids in the game and such, reread the chapter if you need a refresher!

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Bomb and OJ stared at each others, blushing profusely. They both felt that fuzzy feeling, as the air seemed thickened with a tension around them. Not the bad kind of tension like in horror movies, but a, yearning of sorts? A yearning for what though? They both really didn't know, but they seem to instinctively lean closer and closer to each others. Their foreheads almost touched as they both stared into each others eyes, blushing a deep red. The world seemed to stop around them, and OJ places his hand gently on top of Bomb and squeezed it gently. OJ and Bomb's faces were so close now, Bomb could almost count the little freckles on OJ's cheeks. You could almost cut the tension with a knife. OJ and Bomb then seemed to unconsciously moved closer, their lips near touching. 

Suddenly, Bomb hesitated. Was this okay? To kiss your best friend? The hesitant man glanced carefully at his friend, who had his eyes tight shut, lips mere centimeters away, expecting the touch of another's lips. A deep burgundy crept its way towards Bomb's face. If OJ was expecting it, who was he to deny him that? Fluttering his eyes closed again, Bomb finally moved the extra centimeters closer to OJ. 

A faint taste of orange chapstick made its way into Bombs taste buds as the softness of OJ's lips took him by surprise. It felt so foreign, the touch of his best friend's lips on his own, but it was a welcomed feeling. The butterflies in Bomb's stomach were at it again, almost ricocheting off inside him. The next thing he knew, Bomb's hand was caressing OJ's tender cheek, rubbing it gently with his thumb. He didn't mean to do it, but it felt so right. Like he always wanted to touch OJ, to hold and kiss him. If OJ was letting Bomb kiss him, was it right to assume that he felt the same way too? Maybe he should ask. Bomb had to pry himself off of OJ's lips even though he wanted to keep kissing him, but he had  confirm his worries first in case OJ felt uncomfortable.

"H-Hey OJ? D-D-Do you like m-m-"

Before he could even get his sentence out, OJ wrapped his arms around Bomb's neck and pulled him back into a kiss. Taken by surprise, Bomb stumbled forward as OJ pulled him in, pinning his ginger friend down on his own bed, laptop dangling dangerously on the edge of the bed. It was thrilling, Bombs nerves were going through the roof as OJ seemed to pull him closer and closer.  What felt like forever, really was only a couple of seconds as the two kissed, as if they feared that if they would let go, the other would disappear. Finally for a moment, they parted, to catch their breaths and process the past couple of minutes. OJ's face was ablaze, but his eyes glittered almost to tell Bomb that he didn't have a single regret at what happened.

A soft chuckle escaped Bomb's lips, "I take it a-a-as you l-like me... Like -l-like-like me..."

OJ lightly traced his fingers over Bomb's cheek, "I had this feeling in the back of my head that I did... I was just, kinda scared about how you would react..." His green eyes looked away for a second, "I was also afraid of what my mother would say..."

"A-A-Are you worried about h-h-her not approving?" OJ looked back at Bomb, who's deep brown eyes seemed to be filled with worry, and regret? As if he felt responsible for the possible rage OJ might face from his mother. OJ placed a reassuring hand on Bomb's cheek, and leaned in to kiss his forehead.

"I don't regret anything, not a second of it..."

Gazing into OJ's eyes, perhaps it was okay to not think of the negatives for now. It made Bomb smile to see that OJ was truly deciding on something without the terrible pressure from his mother. She never approved of OJ dating any girl, and a boy would make it even worse.

What was even so wrong for them to kiss anyways? Why should they ever feel shame for wanting to embrace each others tenderly like everyone else? Its strange how people think they have the audacity to dictate how love should look like in society. Maybe it's simply just two boys, trying to play a video game, but end up in a gentle and sweet kiss. There is nothing shameful about them loving each others.

Carefully leaning into OJ's lingering hand, Bomb kissed it softly, making his ginger lover become red in the face. The soft sunlight that peeked it's way into the room glistened Bomb's brown eyes, glowing with a soft warm tone that captivated OJ completely.

"You're so beautiful..." He whispered breathlessly, as if he spoke any louder, this precious moment would break.

Bomb blushed, taken a bit aback by OJ's bold statement, but he loved it nonetheless. Then, he leaned back in, hovering over OJ's lips once again, waiting for permission to move forward. Placing a second hand on Bomb's cheek, OJ held the dreaded man's face softly, rubbing his thumb across his cheek, smiling to give him the go. The both leaned forward, having their lips meet once again, the ginger wrapping his arms once again around his lover's neck, running his slender fingers through Bomb's hair.

It's as if time blessed them with the slow passage of time, so they could fully appreciate and love each other softly and tenderly. Seconds felt like eternity, everything flowed slowly but with great meaning. Nothing else really mattered to Bomb or OJ, just them being able to love each other as they always wanted. And that's how it should always be, without the worry.

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I love me some bombjay you guys