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He just wanted a drink. That's all.
Spamton enjoyed being the Dealmaker, believe it or not. Kris' kindness, their determination to free him, it changed him for the better. As good as he felt like he could be. He's still an asshole, sure. Would he still be his charming self if he wasn't?
He felt like Kris deserved his first act of kindness given in a long time, with no strings attached. His ally, his friend, the leader of the adventures he could only witness from their inventory. It was the least he could do. But he had to admit, he missed not being restrained. He wasn't in someone's control like before, he was with Kris willingly, but he wasn't free either. It got pretty claustrophobic.
So, whenever they left to the Lightworld, he would return to form. Sometimes he'd be obnoxious about it, say a few snide remarks to Queen or Sweet Cap'n Cakes if he got the chance, but his energy levels for chaos aren't as high as they used to be. He just wanted to...exist, sometimes. Especially when he was the only one awake.
Might as well enjoy the peace and quiet while he can, right?
And that's what he did. Walking around town, jumping up to look into the windows, the occasional vandalism. Once, he even convinced Lancer to dig a secret hole that led to the inside of the Cafe, so he can grab stuff when it's closed. Pretty sure that's the first time he ever spoke to that guy.
It felt isolating to be the only one awake, but nice at the same time. He only recently started feeling comfortable with the idea of being alone with his thoughts.
After having his fun for the night, he just wanted a place to sit and reflect. Anywhere, really. Guess it didn't matter. He enjoyed his late-night stroll for a little bit longer, until he took up space in the darker, more secluded area of Castle Town. He didn't think twice about. He pulled the tab back, hearing the can sizzle for a moment, before taking a sip. The silence, it was peaceful. With nobody in sight, it was like Spamton was the only one alive. He liked that. Maybe this is what freedom is meant to be. The choice to do even the simplest of things, if it brings you joy. Spamton's thankful that Kris could show him that.
When he finished his soda, he crushed the can in-between his hands and threw it as hard as he could to his right, laughing in satisfaction as it hit the floor with a clank. His happiness was short lived, once he heard...something, in the distance. The sound of glass hitting the floor, followed by an exhausted sigh and sniffling. It made him stop in his tracks for a moment, becoming a deer in headlights. What made him come to his senses, however, was something much worse. A familiarly electronic voice, which felt like mere inches away from him.
"What in the world...?"
Spamton stood up quickly, looking at where exactly he was, like the voice was completely in his head. The door in front of him was Queen's bedroom, and the one next to it...
"OH GREAT [HEAVENS--]"
Of course. Of course HE gets his own room, after being here for a day or two at most. How could he forget? As if the giant "TV" On both sides of the door was any indication. Spamton didn't notice it at all until now. Long after their first interaction, he heard some people mention Tenna's injuries from the Knight, how he was going to be "given to a new home." Great news to Spamton, he wouldn't have to see his face ever again. The only issue is, he stopped thinking about it afterwards, to the point he thought it already happened. What was he gonna do, ask? Check and see how he's doing? Wish him a fond farewell?
No. If anyone deserves to be thrown away like the garbage he is, it's Tenna. It's not that bad once you get used to it! Better late than never! Who's gonna want a piece of junk like him, anyway? For all Spamton knew, he'd be stuck in Castle Town forever.
...Oh God, no. Anything but that.
Someone, PLEASE lower your standards and take him out of poor Kris' hands.
And, uh, the others too.
Spamton, pushing down his initial shock, tries to make a run for it. But he didn't get very far before hearing a door creek open from behind him, followed by an overly dramatic yelp. Guess this is just the standard reaction for Tenna.
"You again?!" His voice was broken and unsteady yet still managed to strike fear within the little gremlin. Tenna, more than five times his size, was able to pull him up by his shirt and turn him around.
"HEY HEY HEY !!! GET YOUR [Sticky Hands] 0FF OF ME, YOU LITTLE--"
Spamton lost his train of thought once finally got a good look at Tenna. He couldn't describe it as anything other than a sight to behold. His screen flickering snow, his wrinkled suit with a suspicious hole burned into it, how his antennas seemed to flop pathetically instead of standing as tall as him.
He looked perfectly fine when Spamton first saw him, how is he ALREADY so...so...
"HOLY [$!!$] !!! YOU LOOK LIKE A [H0t Mess InMyArea]!!! WHAT'S [WRONG] WITH YOU???" He asks, unable to keep the absolutely thrilled expression off of his face. He didn't even try to break free anymore.
"Speak for yourself, you little freak!" his grip on Spamton's shirt tightens. "You just caught me at a bad time, that's all! I'm not camera ready! Stop bothering me so I can sulk in peace!"
"BOTHER [YOU]??? YOU'RE THE ONE WHOSE [YANKING MY CHAIN] HERE. EAHAHA!!!" As not fun as being held up in the air is, seeing Tenna imperfect and down on his luck almost made it worth the trouble. The other pauses, a slight flush of embarrassment on his screen, as if he just recognized how irrational he was being from Spamton's perspective. There's no actual evidence that he was snooping around, or stalking him, or anything of the sort. Anyone else would have reason to believe that he was up to no good, but Tenna? For all he knew, he's only seen this "creature" once. And to Spamton's credit, he was pretty normal to him. He barely said anything, didn't react negatively, even during Tenna's...outburst. It shows how much he has grown, while his ex-partner has not. Always emotional, always making everything about himself. As a result, Spamton gets to help his only friend in a world-saving adventure, while Tenna gets to be washed-up and shoved into a stranger's house.
At the end of the day, that was better than even the most violent forms of revenge. Being bigger and better than anyone else. That was always the goal. Truly, it's about time that Spamton got what he deserved. He was almost tempted to show off how good he has it, while digging Tenna's knife in deeper.
...
Okay, yeah, he was sold. Who says all revenge needs a NEO suit?
After a moment of hesitation, Tenna simply let go, full of unease as Spamton hit the ground with a thud. His excitement hasn't diminished in the slightest.
...Until he started to turn around, making his way back to his room without a word. Sure, that's what Spamton wanted at first, but he was starting to enjoy himself around Tenna for the first time ever. He doesn't even know who he should thank for making him so miserable.
He can't lose this golden opportunity. He just has to use his mask of undeniable charm; however rusty it may be. Guess that comes with blurting out the first thing that came to mind.
"YOU WANT A SODA, BIG SHOT?" To his delight, he stops.
"What?"
The smaller man took a step forward, but didn't dare get closer as to not scare him away, like he was a kitten. Even if Tenna was facing the other direction, he smiled as if he was looking right through him.
"JUST THOUGHT I'D OFFER [A GREAT DEAL!]" he said, voice smooth as ever. "I WON'T FORCE YOU. BUT I THINK WE'VE GOTTEN OFF ON THE [WRONG] FOOT, DON'T YOU?"
Silence. Spamton can play into people's emotions so easily, and the emotion that he knew Tenna was feeling was insecurity. And with insecurity, comes the all-consuming guilt of hurting someone who didn't deserve it, during a moment of weakness. Tenna won't be trying to help himself, unless feeling a sense of redemption counts.
He NEEDS people to like him. Even if that person is someone who he will never see again. That's how performative he is.
Tenna adjusts his tie nervously, finally turning around. He had to tilt down ever so slightly, just to look him in the eyes. And Spamton's smile remains. Maybe even suspiciously so.
"You... Don't have to." He rejects weakly. "It's not like me to lash out, I apologize."
"I WANT TO." He insisted, completely ignoring his apology and how it made him involuntarily flinch. "I USED TO BE AT THE [Bottom of A Dumpster] JUST LIKE YOU. I [NO] WHAT IT'S LIKE. YOU LOOK LIKE Y0U NEED A LITTLE [Generosity,] AND I'M THE [G1FT] THAT KEEPS ON [CHARGING TO YOUR CREDIT CARD]!!"
Tenna looks away, trying desperately to hold in his laughter while his hands still cling to his tie. Maybe he was desperate to feel decent, but Spamton knew he was growing on him either way, that he was slowly sinking his teeth in. It wouldn't be the first time. To keep his attention as it started to flicker, he slowly raises his hand up. More like his entire arm, considering how small he is.
When Tenna finally notices, he let a shaky smile form on his dusty screen. He kneels down and gives the other's hand a gentle shake, possibly to avoid the risk of crushing it - given how ginormous he is in comparison.
"I think that would be swell, then." He finally agrees, terrible at hiding his exhaustion, and Spamton could just jump in excitement.
"THEN A DEAL'S A DEAL!!! I'LL [Be Right Back After These Commercials!!]" He made sure to run off before he could hear Tenna's reply, letting his money-winning smile finally drop. Being nice is harder than he thought. Who knows how much longer he can keep this up for. He desperately hopes that it will be worth investing in.
Regardless, Tenna's fallen for the bait. All Spamton had to do was not mess it up from here.
---
"Think fast!"
Tenna jumps as he heard his business partner's voice, tossing a can in his direction. It didn't end up in either of his hands, but instead on the floor, rolling under the Green Room couch. The shrill laughter that followed was immediate, and Tenna mumbles something under his breath as he can only helplessly watch.
"I really should stop asking you for things..." He hung his head over the edge of the couch, barely able to fit his hand underneath to grab his soda - which he suddenly lost the craving of. "Now you just ruined it!"
Well, not my fault you didn't catch it." The other smiles wide, like he just won the lottery. And, at this stage in his life, with this amount of attention, it wouldn't be all that surprising if he did. Like usual, he took up some of the empty space next to Tenna on his left.
"I'm guessing that phone call went well?" Tenna starts to say, trying to sound like he isn't unbearably curious. "You're in a good mood today."
Which sounds ridiculous to anyone else but them. Spamton seems to ALWAYS be in a good mood, they both do. A smile that never wavers, a voice that can reach for miles, mind so sharp under mountains of pressure. People like Spamton were, quite literally, MADE to act as if they're "in a good mood." But when you're the star of the show, when you know what it's like to live that lifestyle, you can see through that act flawlessly. You spend so long being exaggerated for a customer, for the cameras, that the real thing is so noticeable. Even if they aren't trying to show it. Their smiles are less wide; their voices are soft and intimate between only a small amount of people. And, most importantly, it doesn't drain the hell out of you. Because it's real, in an environment where nobody wants to be, where authenticity and vulnerability passed a certain limit will get you one foot out the door. The glimpses of humanity, however small, are a breath of fresh air.
And seeing Spamton happy, what a breath of fresh air it was. Even if it made him be more annoying than usual.
"You bet I am! My sales are the highest they've ever been!" He announced, handling his own drink with much more care. Still being vague about the phone calls he's always taking; such an expert at dodging the details. Even to his most valuable partner, who has given so much to him. It would leave a sour taste in Tenna's mouth, if he had enough time to linger on it. Maybe being secretive was something the person on the phone ALSO taught him how to do. How sad would it be, if that's how deep it went?
"God, I need a vacation right about now. I deserve one, don't I?" He's smug as ever - letting his praises fade as he took a sip of his drink. Tenna, having an opening to respond, gives the smaller man a playful shove in the shoulder.
"And when are you taking ME on a vacation, Big Shot?" he teases, though he did think that Spamton didn't share nearly enough of his wealth. "You think I wanna stay stuck at work while you spend my entire salary to be waited on hand and foot?"
Tenna and Spamton were both insanely loved, that was true. However, the difference between them was starting to shift weight, like comparing a millionaire to a billionaire. Seems roughly the same, until you really look at the numbers. Tenna was more of a personality, a form of entertainment, while Spamton had more to offer as a business. He was reliable. You could get more out of Spamton in the long-term that Tenna just couldn't provide. People won't watch TV forever, as much as he will never admit it. Kids grow up, families fall apart, electronics get bigger and more advanced. Necessities in the Light World, like cars last through generations without losing any relevance. In fact, it seems to be more important the older you get. Both of them are good, of course, but... Can Tenna ever reach that level of importance? What happens when Spamton shines so bright that they aren't even in the same orbit anymore? Would they still be...
"Well, since you asked so nicely," those words snapped Tenna out of his spiral for a moment. "I can certainly pay for two by now."
"Watch yourself, Spamton." He struggled to hold back on his annoyance. It didn't kill Spamton's mood, at least. "This is MY set you're pitying me on."
Unlike Spamton, who could take as many days off as he pleases by this point, Tenna had other things on his mind. He had to stay relevant, had to keep working hard to entertain his audience. Once they lost interest, turned to the next shiny thing they could find, that was it. There was nothing Tenna could do about that. Not that it would ever come to that, certainly not. But it was why he almost never took sick days. Or any days off in general for that matter. He was in his element here. Adoring fans, people who would listen to him, a place where his presence mattered more than anyone else's. That's what he needed. Without work, without the admiration, he was nothing. He couldn't fall back on his money and past success as easily as Spamton could. It was so much more than that.
"And what, I'm supposed to celebrate my success all by my damn self? Give me a break, Ten." Tenna felt his smile radiating, and it was quite contagious. Even though he currently hated reciprocating it. Before he can interject, say that his work is more important, his partner kept talking.
"I meant what I said. When the time is right, let's show em' how much we're worth!"
Tenna froze at the other's request. It was...strange, to hear any kind of gentleness, any kind of reassurance, come out of his mouth. He wasn't the type. Sure, this was mostly to fuel Spamton's ego, he would be stupid to deny that. But to hear confirmation that he was considered an equal, that he wasn't going to be left behind in his quest for greatness, it left an unidentifiable ache in his heart. Even if it was something as stupid as a vacation. Something that he can't see himself doing anytime soon.
Still, it's the thought that counts, right?
"We'll see." Was all he could offer as a response, but at least he finally returned that smile. "Maybe if you gave me some of those tips you learned, we could make that happen faster? I'd kill for your schedule right about now!" He couldn't help himself in asking, not that he expects much anymore. Spamton was already distancing himself on the couch before he could finish his sentence.
"Hey hey hey!!! You don't need any of THAT to make it big! You're doing much better than you think, you know! Trust me!" Spamton insisted, and the disappointment was immediate. Still, after all this time, he wouldn't budge. Why couldn't he help out, just this once? Hasn't he proved himself trustworthy by now?
"Aha- I mean, you should've SEEN me when I was getting my start! Around the same time as you, even! I was a complete nobody!"
Tenna raises an eyebrow, unconvinced. He was always curious about his partner's past, what he was like before the fame, which he never wants to talk about. Maybe they would be much too different to ever get along, but... Tenna felt that maybe, somehow, he would find him just as charming. Maybe even more-so, if his current personality is anything to go by.
"Oh, please." Tenna dismissed those words immediately. "Sure, we're all...Normal, at first. But you were not a nobody. You were meant to be a star! I've never seen anyone adapt to the world of showbiz as well as you! You're a personality made to be seen by millions!"
Maybe he was just flattering him a little. But by the way Spamton waved his hand and avoided his gaze, it was clearly working. Though, there was a tinge of guilt in his expression as his smile weakened. They were both thinking the same thing, but didn't dare say it out loud.
He's not the only one to praise for his success, is he? Tenna never judged him, or anyone, for getting outside help. He needed some of it himself right about now. But when that happens, most people won't dare speak a word of it. Instead, they'd rather take all of the credit. Which is exactly what he saw Spamton doing. Nobody even knew the "stranger on the phone" existed, except for him. At least he was honest about it, though he never wanted to be. He was simply caught, and Tenna had to promise not to say a word. That was the easy part. Talking about himself was his favorite thing.
No, the hard part was pretending like it didn't mean anything. That they were both on the same wavelength, both equally independent and self-sufficient. It just wasn't true. Taking that into account, while seeing how much more Spamton had, it...did something to him. Something that made him a tinge crueler and unprofessional, if he thought too hard about it. Their playful jabbing became a needed way to relieve tension in his presence.
It was probably nothing. Everyone gets jealous sometimes, everyone wishes they were...someone else.
He was still happy for him. Spamton is a good partner, a hard worker. He deserves it.
"What a charmer you are. I'm blushing." He teases, and Tenna could only chuckle. Spamton raises his can up, proposing a toast to their success.
"You're not a nobody, either. Don't worry so much, alright? Before you know it, you'll be as big as me!" They both pretend that this was helpful. Tenna felt his antenna twitch. Still, he raises his can in response (which he still hasn't opened, it had slipped his mind for quite a while.)
A light from behind them was shut off, and a Pippins passed by them while rolling a cart. The day was wrapping up.
Thank God.
"I can't wait to meet you there," his voice was terrifyingly gentle. They make their toast regardless, the sound of the cans being somehow louder than everything else. Tenna lets himself take a long, long, long drink. "Wait for me, will you?"
"Of course. Always." He reassured, yet it only served to warm Tenna's interior even more. They could hear someone yell out a five-minute warning. They both stand up, aimless. Tenna stretches his arms out before transitioning to a rough pat on Spamton's back. It makes him jump before it makes him laugh.
"Where would I be without you, Big Shot?" The authenticity of the TV Star's grin almost hid the strain increasing with every syllable. Spamton decides not to answer. Probably because saying "Better off" would be a tad rude, even for their relationship, where being "rude" was a showing of closeness. Not like they could treat anyone else that way. But even if he said it, neither of them would believe it. Of course. So, no harm no foul, right?
The two exchanged their farewells, leaving the Green Room in opposite directions. They made sure to lock their respective doors, once everyone else has already exited. The sigh that left Tenna's speakers was much louder than he anticipated.
Maybe it's not a good idea to have an "equally beneficial partnership" that has a 50/50 chance of increasing his crippling inferiority complex when his highly sought-after partner enters a room. What is he doing any of this for, anyway? Why does he feel so inclined to help someone who won't give a percent of what he wants in return? Who CLEARLY doesn't need it? Is he really so easily manipulated...?
Spamton knows how to take, that's for damn sure. But Tenna can't deny that he's the same way. At least it's at acceptable levels, at least he's not flaunting his success to everyone who is forced to listen. Has that stranger taught him to be humble yet? Because they should.
...
And yet, it's so natural for Tenna to lend a hand to him, whenever asked. His advice reflects in his partner. How he talks, how he looks, how he deflects uncomfortable questions, he's truly made for this. When he comes back down to Earth after a good workday, he's...different. He always offers Tenna a lunch date, he beams when he talks about all of the offers he got.
...And then, he turns to him fully. "But enough about me. How was your day?" He'd ask. "I saw your newest episode. You did great!"
Tenna would answer. Talk about the events with much less certainty than the man in front of him.
And he'd listen. Without looking away. Without losing that smile.
He'd throw in a laugh every now in then, a throwaway comment about how wild the show was, or the contestants in particular. He already knew most of this, he's seen it, but he doesn't act like he knows. He doesn't act like it's nothing more than a rerun.
If it was a bad day, they still made an effort to spend that time together. Drowning their worries in drinks, grumble about how unfair everything is, how hard they work just to be treated like they aren't two of the most beloved names here. Spamton would curse the "friends" who left him, Tenna's screen would occasionally go blank as he prayed that his family would make up soon, that everything would go quiet again. Spamton would respond a considerably few notches lower, after that. Even if it was just more complaining
They'd sit until closing. Before the two parted ways, he'd always say the same thing. "The show must go on, I suppose. Let's hope tomorrow is better, yeah?" Tenna had no choice but to agree. He can't let himself stay miserable forever. Who will watch him if he's not at his absolute best? When Spamton finally left, Tenna would linger wherever he stood, an invisible heaviness keeping him still. How easy it would be if they talked endlessly, until he could forget what was bothering him. But that's extremely unprofessional of an ask, isn't it? He doesn't want to be an inconvenience. More than he already is, anyway.
But after days like those, it was hard to focus on the jealousy. Hard to remember the things about his partner that makes Tenna so irritated. When Spamton stopped talking about himself, when he acted like there was more to his life than his name, it was unbelievably refreshing. It reminded Tenna why they worked so well together. Doesn't make those days of annoyance any easier, however.
Why couldn't he be this way all the time? That's what Tenna found himself asking a lot. Like focusing on yourself and your own endeavors isn't the point of the job. Being so sentimental made him look stupid, surely Spamton would agree. So, he never asks for any more of that, even if it's just a front. It would be a shame to lose his ticket to being a Big Shot.
He just had to keep trying. Eventually, his efforts would be worth it. Tenna will get through to him. He'll get to Spamton's level. He WON'T be lost to time. And he most certainly won't lose to him.
He can keep pushing himself, since his entire life depends on it, but he had to keep the worst-case scenario in mind. The possibility of ending his partnership. Better to do it on his own terms, but it's still hard to willingly burn bridges. Spamton lets go of everyone much easier. It comes back to what he said before. Where WOULD he be without Spamton? Could he handle the ever-changing demand of the audience, another decade of fading stardom, the increase in competition, without anybody on his level who understands?
And it goes even further than that. Who would get him his drinks? Who would pay for his lunch after a good day, even if he's more than well-off? Who would he talk about that day with? Who would tell him that things will be okay, that there's still a place in the world for him? At this point, who would want to work with him in the first place? Who would tolerate his standards for as long as he is relevant? For as long as Spamton has already?
...
...Well.
The show must go on.
---
Spamton REALLY took his time getting back to Tenna. He considered just making a run for it, which would be just as effective without doing nearly as much work. Leaving him alone after promising to listen to his woes, that would be so embarrassing for him!
Even so, he's not the kind of guy to chicken out on his end of a deal. At least 90% of the time. Roughly.
He made an effort to find him a soda can that was slightly dented. Nothing but the best for his backstabbing, piece of shit ex-partner!
He was surprised to find the door Tenna's room wide open when he returned. He stood just out of his field of vision, aimlessly staring.
Is he really doing this? Wasting time talking to the person he hates more than anyone, just to give a few extra jabs? To get something out of it? Maybe he didn't think this through well enough. There's only so much of Mr. "TV Time" a person can handle.
Wait, why is he acting like he NEEDS to stay until the end? He can leave whenever the hell he wants! There's no use overthinking it. It's mostly for entertainment, after all
...
...This would be a good time to move, then.
No one is stopping you.
Any day now.
"[#@!!] IT." He hisses - Making sure he has a big smile on his face before he slips through Tenna's doors. Which stays open because he didn't feel like using his entire body weight to close it. What he saw on the inside was completely empty, besides the star of the show sitting on the floor with his legs up, and a mysterious pile of broken glass in the corner.
He'll, uh, just pretend he doesn't notice that.
Tenna looks up when he hears footsteps, immediately trying to look more pleasant. Though, there isn't much he can show without eyes.
"Welcome back!" His greeting was so unnaturally cheerful, it made Spamton want to throw up on the spot. To avoid responding, he gave Tenna the drink immediately.
"Oh, my favorite! How'd you know?" The other concluded, opening it immediately. He didn't seem to mind the dent, after all. "Thank you."
NO NEED TO [Thank You for Shopping with Us!]" He shuts that down immediately, taking a seat next to him on the floor. As far as he can get without showing his discomfort
Now that he was here, there was one problem he still had no idea how to face. Helping people on a personal level, rather than from a business perspective, is something that every Addison seemed to struggle with. Not in an "It's in their DNA" way, but in a "Coincidentally, they all just really suck" way. Spamton was no different, even while in his prime, people preferred him because of his apparent sense of empathy and relatable personality. He was the one who struggled the most, after all. The outcast, the runt of the litter, the one who came from nothing. God knows how many Lightners he's met who shared a similar sob story. At least pretending to care helped increase his sales.
But he was out of his element here. He's not selling a car, he's not finding "just the thing you need," he's just...sitting. And talking. He can't relate this to his job much at all, aside from when it all fell apart. Even back then, he never knew what to say when it mattered. Buying a drink and saying that life sucks is easier than quiet, vulnerable sympathy. And let's just say his voice isn't exactly the pinnacle of geniality. Still, he had to put on a good performance for the first time in years. It's a slow and risky investment, but in Tenna's emotional state, he could get back MUCH more than he puts out.
Sure, he hasn't had a normal conversation with him in years. But he knows how to make others feel bad for him. It's what made Kris set out on a quest to free him, isn't it?
He thought about this for a long time. If he had the chance to see Tenna again, what would he say? How can he explain just how much he ruined his life until he notices? And the fact that he's apparently too important to even recognize him now. Maybe he's changed, but so what? He's still the same Big Shot from all those years ago! Even the other Addisons can see that!
Is he simply ignorant? Or is it just easier not to remember him? Spamton wishes he could forget that fast. How amazing it must be to live in denial until it rips you apart.
Before he could get a word in, however, Tenna had some words of his own to say. And they were far from what Spamton expected.
"If you don't mind me asking, have you always been so... uh, funsized...?" He asks, dragging on those last few syllables like he was hit with instant regret. The twitch in Spamton's smile seemed to make that feeling worse
Sorry, I just meant- well, you don't look like you were meant to-"
"AC1D." He answers, loudly. Tenna's mouth stays open as he was cut off, rubbing the back of his neck.
"Ahaha!! Well!! I guess that makes sense! Um! Sorry! I was just! Wondering!" Spamton could feel his urge to run out of the door grow bigger and bigger. Still, he kept his cool, almost begging to stay on topic.
Though he was already getting frustrated, Spamton acknowledged that something was...different, about the man sitting next to him. Usually, he has to be the most animated person in the room, rushing to make a name for himself. Even on bad days, he'd try to crack a joke. Try to look more put together than he really was. I suppose that comes with the job.
Here, he was so unsure of himself. Attempting his usual act made him sound paranoid, and that was only sometimes. Here he was, sitting on the floor, barely moving a muscle - only now attempting to lighten the mood. His confidence, his beams of energy, they were all completely drained out of him.
And, as uncharacteristic as it may be, Spamton couldn't contain his excitement from how much the other was already torn down.
He intends to make it worse, somehow.
"ENOUGH ABOUT [LITTLE OLD] ME." He finally goes back to the topic at hand. "WHAT'S THE [DEAL] WITH Y0U, [SCREENPLAY?]"
Tenna avoids looking in any direction, fingers tapping against his knees. Spamton inhales, as if to mentally prepare himself to listen to him.
"Ahaha, oh jeez...Where do I even begin...?" He starts off, silence lasting for so long that Spamton questioned if he should interject or not. Thankfully, he didn't have to sit with it for long.
"I guess I'm just...scared. I'm supposed to find a new home, but what if I never find a Lightner that likes being around me? Even if I do, leaving behind my old family, after so long... Can I even live with myself, entertaining such a thing?" He pauses to take a small sip of his soda, letting out a frustrated sigh. He finally decides to meet the other's gaze.
"I mean, I've been here for decades! We've made so many memories together, and they don't even try to fix me! Am I really that...replaceable?" he asks, voice noticeably weaker.
Tenna looks away. Spamton doesn't. He makes sure to smile wider, like he's trying not to laugh.
"...Maybe." He decides. "I know I'm not exactly... In top shape, anymore. But being able to make Kris and their family happy, watching them grow up... it's been a blessing. I would do anything to rewind the tape and just...do it all again."
Spamton blinks a few times, a deliciously evil thought appearing in his head that he didn't expect.
How could he forget about the one thing they both have in common?
Before a few days ago, Spamton only knew that Tenna had a family. He knew that the family had children that relied on him for emotional comfort, that family friends would come over for the holidays, and it made him feel so special.
And he also knew when that family was...falling apart. Tenna was barely himself on those days. He never knew how to snap him out of it.
But he didn't want to give specifics. Names, personal details on said family's misfortune, he even avoided a lot of the good moments. He was very...Protective, of them.
It was a bit awkward, to put it lightly, that Tenna's most beloved Lightner, and Spamton's by process of elimination, was the kid he tried to steal the soul of just a few days ago. But they were good now, right? They were pals! Buddies! He's given them so much extra money in battle! That makes up for everything!
Still, this is the first time he's SUPPOSED to make that connection. To put it lightly, he was pissed when he first realized that Kris was the "kid I watched grow up" Tenna would speak of. Because of course, this pathetic excuse for an entertainer is ALWAYS ahead of him. Spamton can never have anything for himself, make a name for himself, make connections for himself. His "partner" has always been quite pushy. If Spamton feels understood by someone like Kris, Tenna has to be there first. Has to be easier to connect with. Has to be loved more.
Sure, he's tried to kill them and their friends, but who hasn't? Tenna gets a room in Castle Town and promised a new home after getting consequences for his actions? Everything seems to go perfectly for this guy. All because of his crocodile tears about being "irrelevant," like he knows what that REALLY means. Try living at the bottom of a dumpster with nobody who cares about you! Try losing everything because of somebody else!
Spamton knows how to suffer. Tenna gets the advantage because of nostalgia bait.
Still, He's never been happier to put a name to one of these valuable people in Tenna's life. A place of weakness for him, surely.
"YOU KNOW [KRISPY KREME]???" Spamton blurted out, making Tenna jump ever so slightly. He couldn't miss this time frame to mention it, no matter how tasteless the attempt was. Thankfully, Tenna was too "polite" to comment on it.
"Oh, yes, I do! I belonged to the Dreemurr family, originally. They're just wonderful, aren't they?" He let himself smile, for a moment, Spamton giving the most sickeningly sweet laugh of realization he could muster.
"WHAT A COICIDENCE! [KR1S CROSS] IS ONE OF MY GOOD [Friend Request Accepted!!!]" That seemed to ease the CRT. Not what he wanted. Though, he couldn't deny the way his smile faltered ever so slightly.
"Really...? That's fantastic! That makes my heart dance!" If he wasn't sitting down, Spamton assumed he'd be litterally dancing, too. "I'm so happy they've been making so many friends!" He gleams, for what feels like the first time. "Take good care of them, okay?"
Those words swirled in the puppet's head for a while, and he gave a very polite nod in response.
"OF COURSE! YOU CAN [C0UNT] ON ME!! DON'T [Worry Worry Worry] 1 BIT! I'VE ALREADY BEEN LENDING A [HANDS] WHEN YOU [CAN'T]!!"
Bingo.
That seemed to do the trick. Tenna's smile seemed to drop entirely, but only for a second. Still, it was a wonderful view, and Spamton got front row seats.
Tenna took another sip of his drink, and when he stopped, he was smiling again.
"Well- That's just PERFECT! Amazing! They seem to be, uh, in GREAT hands! As they say! Haha!" He really WAS washed up now, wasn't he? He's had much better performances, years in the past. Spamton genuinely had to try not to erupt into laughter. Save it for a better time, he thought. You can do better than that.
In fact, what's a better way to respond than completely changing topics, and letting that feeling linger?
"[So Sorry,] I DIDN'T MEAN TO INTERRUPT." He gave his fake sympathies, inching a bit closer. "BUT I GUESS THAT PROVES MY POINT. YOUR FAMILY IS ALL [OVERGROWN] NOW, AREN'T THEY? THEY DON'T NEED YOU ANYMORE. THEY NEED SOME 1 [BIGGER,] AND [BETTER!]" His tone was the perfect mix of gentle and condescending, and his worries about being unnatural in this conversation started to fade. What was he so worried about? He's still a Big Shot at heart!
"YOU CAN'T MAKE EVERYONE A [Satisfied Customer,]" He adds. "TRUST ME, I WOULD KNOW. SOME [G00D 4 NOTHING MACHINES] WILL NEVER BE HAPPY."
Tenna shrinks down a noticeable size, thankfully not picking up on the last comment. He begins to hold himself, instinctively.
"That's...true. But...It's just hard to...say goodbye, you know...?" He asks weakly. Spamton doesn't respond, though it's surprisingly not out of malice this time.
"And...and if I find a new home, who knows if that will last? How can I know that they won't just... leave me, too...?" It was like time froze inside of his room. Spamton's mouth opens, trying to fill the space, but it closed again before he could think of anything.
It was...awkward. But Spamton couldn't give up. Without thinking, he gets close enough to put a hand on Tenna's shoulder. His mouth opens again.
"YOU CAN'T." He said firmly, dropping his smile altogether. "PEOPLE WILL [Cancel Order] WITH ANYONE. ANYTIME, ANYWHERE. WETHER YOU WANT TO MAKE THAT [R1SKY PURCHA$E]" IS UP TO YOU."
"Would that be...worth it?" he asks meekly, and Spamton finally lets out the laugh he's been saving.
"AEHAHAHA!!! N0." He can feel the other shudder beneath his hand. He pulls away. "N0T R3ALLY. NOT UNLESS YOU'RE A [Brand New Car,] A [PRODUCT WORTH BUYING,] BUT EVEN THAT GETS [Expired] EVENTUALLY. BUT HEY !!! WHAT DO I [NOSE,] ANYWAYS?" He dismisses his incredibly harmful words with a shrug, to top it all off.
The other lowered his head, a flicker of static appearing on his screen for a brief moment. In these quiet moments, Spamton doesn't feel nearly as good as he thought he would. He'd rather hear more of Tenna's complaining than be stuck with his own thoughts. And yet, he was still unsatisfied. Still wants more out of the situation. He was starting to worry that he wouldn't get it. No matter how upset Tenna got, his reactions were still so mild to him. He expected something different, by now.
At this point, what would that even be...? Spamton didn't have a clue.
"Before all of this, you...you said you knew what it was like. To feel the way I do." Tenna mumbled, turning to face the smaller man next to him.
"Is that still true?"
He freezes. Why is he bringing that up? To use his misfortune to make himself feel better? How tasteless can he be?
They are NOT the same. Not even comparable. How honest can Spamton be, to someone as performative as him? Once he returns back to his normal, obnoxious persona, there's no telling what he'd do. What he'd say. What he'd think of him after this. This was supposed to be embarrassing for TENNA! Not the other way around!
So, he should just tell him to shut it and--
"I'm sorry!" Tenna blurted out, his thought fading away before he could finish. "I didn't mean to hit a sore spot for you! You, uh, don't have to talk about any of it! Forget I said anything!"
...Well. Guess that's that. For some reason, he still felt offended.
"I was just wondering how you dealt with it. If things are better for you, then maybe there's still hope for me, right?" he asks, a pathetic glimmer of hope in his eyes that can only live through reassurance.
We can only hope that's the case, right? Not like things are already a million times better for him at his lowest, than Spamton at his. He decides not to entertain the question at all.
"I ALREADY TOLD YOU WHAT TO [BUY,] DIDN'T I?" Tenna's raised eyebrow confirmed to him that he didn't understand. Guess he had to spell it out.
"YOU HAVE TO BE [BIGGER.]" He reinstates. "HAVE TO BE THE BEST [PR0DUCT] AROUND. MAKE IT SO NO [Schmucks] ARE [Higher] THAN Y0U. SEND THEM STRAIGHT TO HELL! IF ANY1 LEAVES YOU, [KILLED] THEM!" And to Spamton's credit, despite being... overly excited about that last part, he meant every word. Seeing the world like this, it was a learned skill. He had to care about his own self-improvement more than getting the love and attention of every single person. Though, his idea of "self-improvement" was less therapy and more getting a giant NEO suit to kill his enemies with. A very small difference, he'd say. "YOU'VE BEEN IN SHOWBIZ, YOU KNOW HOW IT WORKS, DON'T YOU?"
"...I guess that makes sense. Though, I'm not sure how I feel about the...PG-13 part of that sentence!" Letting out a gentle laugh. After a few seconds of silence. his expression slowly began to sour. "I'm just...so far behind. So out of date. I wouldn't have to worry so much if that good for nothing mailman did what he promised instead of leaving me in the dirt!" He suddenly yelled, and the smallest amount of sympathy Spamton had for this piece of scrap metal has faded away. Although, it WAS the kind the reaction he was hoping for. Maybe he just wanted to feel angry today. And anger wouldn't even begin to describe how those words sat in his brain.
What a delusional little freak! Twisting the story to think that HE was abandoned. If he wasn't scared of revealing his identity right at the good part, Spamton would give Tenna a piece of his mind. He wasted his time doing all of this for him, just to be unknowingly slandered! Did he forget about all the things he did for him? And, even more than that, how it was never good enough for him? What about the part where Spamton lost everything because of him, while he gets to keep his stupid show and his adoring fans for years afterwords?
Truly, Spamton has never met anyone so miserable inside and out.
"Ahaha! Sorry, that just...just came to my mind! You probably don't know who I'm talking about, do you?" Tenna is noticeably more hushed, presumably out of embarrassment from not getting a response. He starts pulling slightly on his antenna like a strand of hair. Spamton moves a noticeable distance to the right.
"NO IDEA." He answered, too strained for his liking. "TELL ME [More!!]"
"Well..." He sighs an almost dreamy sigh. "We were...business partners. Very good ones at that. I'd even go as far as to say that..." His voice trailed off. Despite not wanting to look at him, Spamton could see him bite his lip ever so slightly, in the corner of his eye.
"...We worked really well together, is what I'm saying." Perhaps the perceived pressure made him backtrack.
"He was always better than me. At everything." He continues, and Spamton wishes he could beg to differ. "A real Big Shot. I just... wanted to feel that way, too. Didn't want to fade into obscurity. Didn't want him...everyone else, to forget about me. He said he would help me adapt to the times, but after I got him to sign a deal, he got a phone call and just...ran. Away from our partnership. Away from me."
He hid his face in his hands slightly, making his mumbles even less coherent. While he had the chance, Spamton let himself scowl.
What a baby. Trying to make himself look like the victim, like it was all part of the salesman's evil plan to "abandon" him. If only he knew the things he heard on the phone that day! How quickly everything changed!
...Yeah, if only he knew, right?
...
Tired of this nonsense, Spamton interrupted his sob story with a proposition. One that Tenna definitely needed to hear.
"YOU DON'T KNOW THE FULL [STORYB00K.] MAYBE IT WAS YOUR OWN [System Error!] THAT MADE HIM GO [RUNNING!!]"
He lifted his head up, disgusted by the thought. When they make eye contact again, Spamton's smile returned.
"My fault?!" He acts like being in the wrong in any way is physically impossible. Spamton knew he would have something to say about it, without a second thought. "Who does that to someone after so many years?! I thought you understood how I felt!" Again, always about him. He still didn't confirm that he felt this way before.
"IS H3 THE KIND OF [SUCKER] WHO [SCRAMS AND SCREAMS] WITHOUT A [[REASONABLE PRICE]]???" And that seems to quiet him, suddenly. He sighs, giving a slight tug on his antenna. Surprisingly, Tenna seemed to internalize whatever was said to him. The puppet couldn't tell if it was out of desperation for any kind of guidance, or genuine respect for his words. Regardless, it was something to keep in mind.
"But it all seemed too perfect! Too scripted! Leaving me after all of the begging I had to do...I just can't think of any other reason!" He was saying his own mistakes out loud, and STILL couldn't piece it together? Calling him hardheaded would be an understatement at this point.
"BEGGING, HUH ????" He asks, pretending to be curious and not letting Tenna get a word in. "ARE YOU SURE THAT'S A [DEAL] HE WANTED TO MAKE?"
The other squirms in his current seating position. Spamton revels in his discomfort and moves closer. "Um-"
"I MEAN, IF ANYONE TREATED ME LIKE A [Little Sucker] FOR DAYS ON [Neverending,] I WOULD [RUN FOR THE H1LLS,] TOO! EAHAHAHA!!!"
The laughter faded. Nothing happened. Spamton waited for what felt like hours. Still nothing.
It was starting to make his stomach churn. And at the same time, he was starting to feel bored. Maybe that's what was making him tap his foot, faster and faster, just to fill the void of silence. He wanted to yell at him to hurry up and say something, to put his mind at ease, but there seems to be a barrier inside of his throat.
Something urged him not to look his way. Which was a good choice, because he heard a very faint, sharp inhale coming from Tenna's speakers.
"...You're right." It was like a gust of wind. Both the sound of his voice, and the sigh of relief that Spamton let out. "Now that I think about it, I... probably pushed him away, huh? I was so focused on trying to make it big, I must've..." Suddenly, he lays down, hitting his head with a loud clank. Hands over his screen, he wails.
"What was I thinking?! What's wrong with me?!" He shrinks down a considerable size, and the visual lightens Spamton's mood again. Yes, this was just the outburst he was looking for. It was very amusing, seeing Tenna make such a fool of himself. He knew he was dramatic, but throwing a tantrum like a toddler? Surely, he has more class than that. "I'm a complete failure. My family, my friends, my career... I lost it all! I've ruined everything in my life! Everything! I'm disgusting, I'm useless, I..."
Spamton began to tune his nonsense ramblings out, not wanting to entertain him. Why should he be comforted for realizing the truth? It was about time! He was, quite literally, at the smaller man's level now.
It felt GOOD, to be proven right. To finally be listened to, not the one messing up all the time. He was right, and he was useful. Though, his whining was starting to drag on too long. Without thinking, Spamton grabs his wrist, feeling it tremble slightly.
"G3T UP." His voice dripping with judgment, which is probably what made the other comply so fast. Though, that was a warning for Spamton to control his anger before his intentions became too obvious. "THIS ISN'T SOLVING ANYthing, IS IT?"
"...Sorry, I... I guess I really needed to hear that." He mumbles his excuse, embarrassed. "I didn't mean to pressure him, honest! Just- I think he liked being better than me, you know...? I gave so much during our partnership, and he'd just...hide so much of himself from me. I never knew why."
Spamton huffed, trying to get rid of the remaining irritation flowing through him. Sure, he ended up being more relevant than Tenna at some point, but that was no excuse to basically harass him, was it? There was barely a difference! And he deserved it, after working so hard.
And besides, even if he WANTED to be honest, the stranger on the phone...well, they were very protective of their identity. Even Tenna knowing that a person on the other line existed made his heart race. He was close to tears, trying to convince him not to say a word. He was ready to give up basically everything, at his request.
Instead, Tenna simply leaned down to meet the other man's level (definitely not as far down as he would have to now, but Tenna was still much taller than him,) put a hand on his shoulder, and smiled.
"What's with all the fuss, Big Shot?" He asked him. "I don't care what you're doing with who, just do it on your own time!" He laughed, but it didn't seem to calm him. He pulled in ever so slightly closer.
"Hey, you know me well enough by now, don't you? My lips are sealed! Honest!" Spamton finally met his gaze, still afraid. Of something he couldn't admit. All he could say was a small, pathetic "Thank you."
And to the Trash Heap's credit, he didn't even hint that he knew. He was great at dodging similar questions in interviews. If he DID tell someone, they were also just as secretive. Even now, despite already losing everything, saying the full truth felt like it would carry a bad omen. Probably because the person left right before he could say a word about them, and he lost everything he ever had. He couldn't do it again. Even if there was nothing left to give.
Besides, Tenna kept his secrets, too. They didn't need to know everything about their personal lives. They still don't.
"IT'S NOT HIS FAULT THAT HE WAS [[B1GGER]] IF THAT'S WHAT THE [Happy Customer] WANTS! YOU HAV3 YOUR OWN [Deals] 2 WORRY ABOUT." Though, it wasn't Tenna's fault that he was smaller, either. Judging by how he reacted at the smallest hint of failure back then, he wouldn't be able to handle that feeling at its worst. Spamton himself was surprised he made it out alive.
"I know, but...That's not just it." He protests. "It's not just the jealousy that bothers me, it's..."
Spamton's head perked up, waiting for him to finish his thought. He saw Tenna fiddle with his hands, trying his best to pretend like he wasn't there. He whispers, as if it was something he was forbidden from saying.
"...I miss him."
"WHAT." The reply was loud, immediate. Once again, it made the other jump, and both of them were equally tense.
He didn't MEAN to say anything, especially not as loudly as he did, but nothing could've prepared him for hearing those words when Tenna didn't know that he was listening. If he was any smarter, he would've figured it out by now. He let himself return to his normal size before speaking again, which didn't continue to intimidate Spamton, considering the "small" state he's seen this man in countless times already.
He knew that Tenna was overly sentimental, but this? What was he thinking? It was becoming sad, at this point. He could form an attachment to a tree if it looked at him the right way. It felt alien to hear those words regarding him, and yet...
"I still hate his guts! I can't help but feel cheated for what he did! But I keep wondering, if he was still here, would he want me even while I was broken? Would he have kept me from breaking in the first place? If he did what he promised, maybe I'd be good enough to stay on the air. Maybe I wouldn't have..." He pauses, looking at his hands which, while fine from a distance, had quite a few faded scratches and some noticeable dents. There was a frayed wire poking out of his wrist. God knows how the actual arm looks underneath his sleeves.
The damage the Knight did to this vintage television was pretty bad, he had to admit. It was nice to see from the safety of Kris' perspective, though. Tenna even suggesting that their deal would've prevented this attack is nothing short of ridiculous. Nothing can change that he's an old model. As for the longevity of his popularity, who knows. It fell apart for Spamton, despite all of his precautions.
What kept him as a household name for so long was his ability to focus on himself. Tenna, he was too soft. Too eager to help. Too much of a pushover. He was causing his own star to die out. Though he could keep a secret well enough, he wouldn't be able to handle someone else having something he doesn't. Eventually, the feeling of inferiority will claw at him. He'll give his entire self away for something that will never fix him. Spamton saw it constantly. He saw it in himself. It's what got his strings cut, and what made him realize he would never be truly free.
He can't comment on their relationship, if he would've stayed to that point in better circumstances. He wasn't stable enough, for that. Knowing him, he would've broken free from Tenna's grasp eventually, assuming he's like every other jealous leech he's worked with. And he was, but he was also the one he trusted the most. The only one in the business with a heart still beating, no matter how small it is. While he is still pretending to care, he can see how truly pathetic his ex-partner was, that he needs someone better to help him. It was his moment of clarity, his second chance given by his only friend, that made him feel an emotion much more powerful than anger, or perverted amusement.
Pity.
He has never pitied anyone more. Maybe that's why he can't get on Tenna's case too much, despite enjoying some of his misery. Maybe that's why he's not very fulfilled. He pities the fact that this has-been was put in a much worse position since their last true day together, and still so incredibly self-centered, while Spamton was lucky enough to improve as a person - and nice enough not to flaunt it.
Besides, Tenna has seen the error of his ways by now, hasn't he? What else could the puppet TRULY expect from him without it getting stale? He might as well use what he's learned to spare everyone from Tenna's destructive downward spiral. And Tenna himself, for that matter.
So, he won't be so hard on him anymore. But he won't be nice, either.
Guess he had to take back at least ONE of his previous comments, begrudgingly.
"MAYBE..." He began to suggest, voice distant. Tenna met his gaze, begging for proper guidance. "MAYBE- MAYBE HE D1DN'T WANT TO [Cancel Subscription.] MAYBE HE HAD N0 CHOICE. MAYBE THOSE LAST MOMENTS WERE MORE [Hyperlink Blocked] THAN YOU THINK." Somehow, Tenna seemed to understand.
"... I mean, He didn't seem THRILLED to get rid of me, like everyone else. He actually looked pale as a ghost! But uh- I guess we'll never know, huh? It's... hard to run a show, without your biggest fan. He's definitely not anymore, but...ever since that day, I've never felt more lonely." Spamton felt his hands clench at those words. This level of delusion, it was starting to make his head spin.
How bad does it have to be, for someone to be so torn on HIM? As soon as this episode fades, so will these feelings. He shouldn't waste his time hearing any of it.
Tenna has no idea what he wants, does he? There's no point listening to this anymore. There's no value to find in it.
"OKAY, THAT'S ENOUGH [SULK1NG.] YOU'LL GET [No D3al] LIKE THIS." Spamton was rushing to get back on his feet, standing in front of the other, who helplessly watched as his patience with his antics ran out .
"YOU KNOW HOW YOU [FELT.] YOU KNOW WHAT YOU [W4NT.] WHAT R YOU GONNA DO NOW???" The TV pauses, looking back at his roughed-up hands again. Though sounding unsure, he still comes up with some kind of answer.
"I'm going... to be better." He decides. "Good enough to be wanted. To not lose everything. I want to make up for everything I've lost sight of."
"THAT'S THE SPIRIT, YOU LITTLE [Worm!!!]" The seconds counting down to the end of this conversation were agony. Spamton could've sworn that the room was closing in on them, but the tiny pocket of the outside was grounding him, calling his name. Tenna matches his smile, getting back on his feet as well. Just a little longer. He can fake it a little longer. "YOU'LL BE [BIGGER] IN NO TIME! LET'S H0PE [The Next 24 Hours] SUCK LESS!"
Tenna's expression fell, seemingly stunned out of whatever he was about to say. Or perhaps it was Spamton's imagination, because it was back almost immediately.
"Uh...yes, of course! Thank you!" Spamton's eyes go to the open door, slowly inching towards it. At least he didn't seem to mind.
"I'LL GET OUT OF YOUR [HAIRS] NOW." His voice strains more and more by the second, trying to catch his breath. "GO TO B3D."
"Ahaha, of course! You were a great audience! I won't forget what you said, I swear it!" Spamton, for his own sake, chose to pray for the opposite. He didn't want to think about what that could mean.
"ANYT1ME." He let the lie slip out without thinking. Truly, he never wants to do anything like this again. The good news is that he didn't have to. If Kris is as good to Tenna as he was to Spamton himself, he'd get a home in no time. They'd find some sucker to take care of him, no matter how much of a scam that would be. Even better, they may never have to see each other again, all with some good karma in Spamton's hands. Not to mention a good "first" impression, too. Maybe that would make up for how much he embarrassed himself just now.
Tenna's back turned, and what could've been a very violent reunion turned out surprisingly decent. At least they were both alive in the end. Spamton started to hear something else but slipped through the exit before he could make out the words. He finally cut himself free, letting his expression fall completely when eyes were finally off him. He got a good distance away before vocalizing any of his thoughts.
"WHAT A [50% Off] OF MY TIME." Practically hyperventilating, he felt the urge to collapse on the floor overtake him. Serves him right for trying to get a good deal.
Who knew that focusing on anyone else other than yourself was so draining? Being a shoulder to cry on sucks! He didn't even get a gift card for his troubles! And if he was any more an idiot, he'd bet his life savings on Tenna actually changing himself in a meaningful way.
It was a risky investment to begin with, wasn't it? At least he got to talk some sense in that old thing. Made him see how things REALLY were between them.
He planted the seed; he just had to hope that Tenna did something with it. Anything. As long as he didn't hear a damn thing about it.
...
When he finally relaxed, turning to Tenna's now closed door (what was he expecting to see, anyway?) he felt nothing if not desensitized. A certain lightness in his chest that he couldn't identify. Maybe he was more tired than he thought. Being able to detach himself so quickly, it was probably for the best.
There was only one lesson HE had to learn, at the end of it all.
...Maybe staying as the Dealmaker isn't so bad.