Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Working for the famous Mr. ‘Ant’ Tenna was hectic, to say the least. Busy set, strange - but loveable - employees, and crammed schedules, which were your job to create, as his assistant. Hiring you proved to be a good idea, you were desperate for income, and dedicated to whatever job needed to be filled.

That’s how you found yourself with a few sets of semi-professional clothing, a crammed office, and piles of paperwork. The working hours were oddly specific to your young boy’s daycare schedule, but you embraced it, not questioning a thing. At least you didn’t have to worry about food or rent.

Walking into the set once again, early at 8am, it was busy as usual, with Pipinses running around, trying to get stuff done despite their small stature. You were holding his pressed suit on a hanger in one hand, which was too heavy for no reason, as he was larger than you and the rest of the employees. Under your arm, carrying some papers, and your bag hanging over your shoulder, threatening to slip off. That’s show biz, keep up or get lost.

First stop was Tenna’s dressing room, to stop off the sui- “Lovely morning, my dearest assistant!” His voice boomed from beside you, making you freeze. “Morning, sir.” You breathed out. “Let me get that for you. Ah, neatly pressed.” He glanced down at you. “Dedicated as usual, huh?” He took the suit from your hand, allowing you to adjust your bag.

“Thank you, Mr. Tenna. I’ll be off to my office to finish up on the budget.” You nodded to him and excused yourself. “Very well then, I expect to see you soon then, with my coffee?” He shot a small grin. “Yes, of course.” His 10am coffee. As usual.

You walked off, making your way to a quieter part of the set, where the offices were located. Reaching your door, you pushed it open, kicking the small couch inside in order to make way to enter.

The shoulder bag was quickly discarded to the couch, and the papers placed on your desk. You sat down in the spinny-chair and got comfortable in the desk space, opening your organizer and filing away papers that you finished filling, and double checking everything.

“Okay, let’s do this.” You sighed, and got to work on the upcoming month’s budget. Office work was boring, but you had to admit it was one of the most bearable parts of your job. It was one of the few times you got some peace and quiet in this workplace.

Time passed by quickly as you took notes of each employee’s pay, how it had to be cut or raised, and how much money was spent this month on cheese platters for the set. So quick, in fact, that raising your head from the paper, your eyes met the small clock on your desk - displaying 10:45. Shit.

You shut the folder, rising to your feet before pushing your way out of the office. You made a beeline for the green room, making your way through, and to the small kitchenette where the coffee machine was standing. Your savior, your knight in shining armour, the coffee machine.

Grabbing his “1# TV HOST” mug and a coffee pod from the jar, you began preparing his coffee, popping the pod into the machine, and closing your eyes, savoring the smell of the hazelnut coffee brew. One day you’ll have the money for fancy coffee at home, you promised yourself.

The sound of the coffee maker’s little melody snapped you out of your thoughts. What a stupid little detail. You shut it off, collecting the mug and opening the office fridge, unscrewing the cap on the creamer bottle with one hand and splashing into his mug the smallest bit of creamer.

Shutting the fridge back, you made your way to his dressing room, where you knew he’d be. You knocked before peeking inside. “Oh, there it is.” He stood up from his seat in front of the vanity, as if he’d been expecting you. Excuses ran through your head. “Sorry it took so long, Mr. Tenna, I was looking for you.” You walked over to him, sliding the mug atop his vanity.

“All is forgiven, you make it just how I like it,” He gave a small smile and took a sip, savoring the flavour. “Mmm… Great as usual, thank you.” He gave a small nod. “Thank you, sorry for the wait.” You fixed your shirt and turned to leave. Tenna couldn’t help but smile at the sight of you so tense.

Shutting his door, you leaned back against the wall, sighing. You’ve been working for Tenna for almost a year, he feels so familiar, yet you still find yourself tip-toeing around him. He had such a big personality, a trait that often drew you away from people, as it reminded you too much of your ex, your son's deadbeat parent. Yet with Tenna, there was a certain admiration. Maybe it was because he was famous, but all you wanted was just… Some recognition.

But not in the ‘fangirl’ kind of way! Obviously not. Simply… Some recognition, from him, from anyone really. It was tough. It was lonely, but keeping it together meant putting food on the table and making sure you and your son still have a roof over your heads. No fussing for attention, get back to work. You let out one last heavy sigh and push off the wall, making your way back to your office. You were going to make sure tonight’s broadcast was flawless.

-

The day passed by quickly as you busied yourself with tasks around the set - ensuring there were snacks all around, checking up on employees, and even assisting with some set building and decorating.

Around 5pm was the time to pick up your boy from daycare, and you called the babysitter to make sure she had gotten him. So much trust to put in one person’s arms, to ensure the safety of your baby, to ensure he’s fed and rested, and to give a complete stranger a key to your home. It stressed you out to no end, but what other choice did you have?

After a quick call confirming his pickup, you could get back to working the stage, helping clean the backstage area and ordering catering for after the board. One hour until airing. You walked around the set, looking for Tenna, clipboard hugged to your chest, headset around your ear, with a small microphone taped to your cheek.

You held the button down, speaking into the microphone, “Pipins, do you have Tenna with you? I need him to be in makeup already,” A small voice was heard speaking back, “Nowhere over here.” Shit. “Do your best to find him, asap.” You shut it off.

Five more minutes down. Where the hell was he? This had never happened before. You climbed up another set of stairs, looking through the halls. There he was, leaning against the edge of the balcony, looking out at the city, a trail of smoke rising from the cigar between his fingers.

Your body seemed to calm down at the sight of him so… Real. You’d never seen him break character like that, and the sight made you a bit warm. You held the clipboard in one hand, your legs moving on their own to the glass doors. You stopped in front of them, giving a small knock before peering one of the doors open.

“Mr. Tenna..?” You spoke quietly, not wanting to startle him. “Hm,” He turned to you, simply smiling, and flicking the half finished cigar down onto the street below. “You’re on in 50 minutes, sir.” You added. He smiled a bit more, slicking back his antennae. “That’s just SUPER!” He beamed, “I’ll be right down for makeup.” He knew the deal already.

Something in you was telling you to stay, to ask what was wrong, to confront him about smoking, but you held back. He was a grown man, and it was none of your business anyway. You gave a small nod, “They’re expecting you down.” You added and took a few steps back before turning and walking away.

You made your way back down the stairs, feeling all sorts of conflicting emotions. Why did that raw vulnerability feel so comforting, and why were you hungry for more? Must be low blood sugar. You reach the ground floor once more, snatching a few cheese and crackers from one of the snack plates you got for employees.

Leaning against the wall of the green room, you could see Tenna walk down the stairs and pass by, giving Ramb a small nod as he did. You took a good ten minutes replenishing your hunger, and patience.

Passing by his dressing room, you glanced inside, watching for a moment as the Pipinses polished Tenna’s screen and smoothed out his suit. It was a bit endearing to see them sat atop each other's shoulders just to reach Tenna’s screen. You made your way further down the hall and stepped backstage.

The backstage area was a chaotic harmony of employees throwing around orders, and trying to work through the noise and confusion. The crowd was filling the seats in front of the stage, adding even more to the chaos of the room. You walked through all the sections, approving the lighting placement, ensuring the podiums were in place for the contestants, and making sure the screen display was orderly.

Check after check, the boxes beside the list in your clipboard were beginning to fill, with the only ones left being - receive catering, sound check, and pray for the best. A deep breath left your nose.

Everything was going smoothly, and soon enough, the star of the show appeared backstage as well, greeting employees with a big smile, his suit perfectly smooth, his screen shiny and pristine. It panged a bit in your chest. You were in no place to look this fancy or put-together anytime soon.

You watched as he put on his ear-piece, and spoke into the microphone for sound check. As the crowd heard his voice loud and clear in the speakers, they all went wild, cheering and clapping. You checked off another box in your list. You glanced at your watch and announced to the crew backstage, “We’re on in five!” Before going out through the back door to check if the catering van had arrived.

As if on que, the van stopped in front of the parking lot, and the driver came out to greet you. “Pleasant evening,” He smiled, an arrogant looking guy wearing a hat, obviously a courtesy of his food chain. “Evening,” You answered plainly, flipping to the next page in your clipboard and checking that he had delivered all that was needed. “It’s all here, don’t you trust me?” He smirked.

You shot him an unimpressed look, before pressing the button on your headset and speaking, “I need a few guys out here to help carry the food.” Before turning to the guy again. “How much will that be?” You asked. “Eh, 590 points, but for your sweet ass, I can take off the delivery fee-” You interrupted by shoving the full price of 600 points into his hand.

Just then, a few Zapper guys joined the pair outside, carrying boxes of food from the van to the set. You looked over at the guy, “You remind me of my ex, and not in a good way.” You sighed and walked back inside. As you followed the Zapper guys into the green room to place the food down in an orderly fashion, you could hear the “TV TIME” intro playing from the stage. All is well, you reassured yourself.

You sat down in one of the plush couches of the greenroom, pulling your baby monitor out from your back pocket. The monitor showed a black and white scene of your dearest boy, sleeping peacefully in his crib. Reassured, you lay your head back and close your eyes, letting the sound of muffled speaking, music and applause lull you to a rest.

-

You were woken up suddenly, only after two hours, by the sound of crew members and Tenna filling the green room. You hopped up from the couch, wiping a trail of half-dried saliva from your chin, and rolled with it, striking conversation with one of the Shadowguys as if you’ve been alert all this time.

When most of the employees went to eat from the catering, Tenna approached you. “There’s my dearest assistant, enjoyed the show?” He smiled. You smiled back, “Loved today’s segment, boss.” You complimented, clueless to whatever went on at the stage tonight. “Are you staying tonight? Maybe for some pizza? Beverages?” He asked, a hint of hopefulness in his voice.

“Sorry, boss, not tonight either. I have to go home and release my babysitter.” You smiled apologetically. “That is completely understandable!” He beamed, “By the way, how is the little guy?” He asked quietly. You glanced away for a moment, “Well.. he’s fine, as usual.” You spoke through gritted teeth. You couldn’t help it, you were protective over your baby, and didn’t just give out information to whoever asked.

“I understand,” A smile rose to his face once more, “Good night.” You glanced back at the employees, then back at him, “Good night, Mr. Tenna.” you gave a polite smile and took your leave back to your office to gather your things and leave as fast as you could.

He watched, his smile faltering for a moment.
Inside your office, the headset was quickly tossed into your desk drawer, the folder and papers tucked in the corner of the desk. You picked up the bag, digging out your car keys and taking your leave through the back door.

You found your car in the dark parking lot, unlocking it and sitting inside the driver’s seat, tossing the bag to the passenger. You reversed and drove out of that oh so familiar parking lot. The streets of the city were not too full at this hour, with most darkeners having settled at home already. The drive wasn’t too long, and soon enough, you pulled into your street. You maneuvered your way around the block until finding a parking spot on the sidewalk.

You parked the car and stepped out, letting the humid night air coat your skin and stick to it. You walked the short distance to your apartment building and entered, glancing around the dim-lit lobby.

You walked up six sets of stairs until reaching your apartment on the third floor. You unlocked the door, pushing it open and giving a warm smile to the girl sitting on your couch. “Hey, thank you again for watching him,” You sighed with a smile, pulling your wallet out. She stood up, “It’s no issue, you have such a sweet boy.” She approached with a smile, pocketing her phone.

You counted out 100 points and handed them to her. She pocketed those as well. “He was really tired after daycare today, so I fed him and got him straight to sleep, and I managed to do the dishes also.” She explained. You smiled. “Thank you, sweetie. Have a good night.” “You too!” She gave you a small hug before leaving the apartment.

You locked the door and set your things down by the couch, making a beeline to your son’s room. You peered the door open quietly, smiling at the sight of him sleeping. You walked inside and sat down on the carpet floor next to his crib, stroking his small fist with your finger. That was undeniably the best part of your day.

Leaning your head on the small chair, you felt your eyes heavy, and drifted off to sleep to the sound of your baby boy’s soft breathing.

Chapter Text

You woke up to a call from your cell, somewhere around the house. Rubbing your eyes, you lifted your head from the chair, glancing inside the crib, a smile washing over your tired face as you saw your boy stirring awake in the small space.

“Hi, buddy…” You reached out a hand, brushing his hair back. “Did you sleep well, sweetie?” You gave him a moment to stretch out his limbs before picking him up into your arms, planting a small kiss atop his head.

Holding him securely in your arms, you pushed out of the nursery, finding your phone ringing from where it was discarded on your couch. The caller ID showed ‘Ant Tenna’. Why would he be calling so early in the morning? You freed one of your hands, holding your baby in a one-arm hold. You accepted the call and held the phone up to your ear.

“Hello?” You spoke, a bit puzzled. “Gah, my dearest assistant, I need you on set QUICK! The shadowguys caught sight of two lighteners, and the prince of the dark castle, on their way NOW!” He spoke anxiously into the phone. “Hold on, boss, what-” “One of them is MY human, Kris!” He interrupted, sounding like he was about to explode. “I need your help getting the board ready as soon as possible!”

You sighed. “I can’t just drop everything, sir-” “I’ll- I’ll give you tomorrow off, I swear.” He cut in once again. You gave it a thought. “I can be there in 20, but I'll have to bring my son, and I'll have to leave to drop him off at eight.” You hated this. You hated exposing your son like this. “Deal. sounds great.” He hung up quickly, presumably rushing to prepare the stage. You definitely made a mistake.

-

After freshening up, and quickly changing yourself and your son into clean clothes, you grabbed some fruit mash from the fridge for him, shoving it in your bag, along with the documents for work, and headed right out.

You rushed to your car, securing your child into the safety seat in the back of the car. You handed the fruit mash packet to him. “There you go, sweetie..” You kept speaking softly, half to yourself, half to him. You walked around the car after shutting the door, and got into the driver seat, hearing a small “Thank you” from behind.

Once again, the drive to the ‘TV TIME’ set wasn’t too long, especially with the roads not being clogged at this time of day. “To work?” You heard your son’s voice ask quietly. “Yeah, buddy, you’re coming with me to work for a little while.” You gave a small smile, “I won’t make you work the stage, though!” you teased, earning a small giggle.

“There we are,” you muttered, pulling over to park near the building. You parked and walked back around, throwing your bag over your shoulder and unbuckling the little boy in the seat. He held up the plastic squeezy-bag. “All done, kiddo?” He nodded, holding onto you as you held him against your chest, taking the packet from him and throwing it into the small trash in your car.

You locked the car and made your way into the building, smiling at one Pipins who opened the door for you. Walking through, you were met with the sight of a very urgent Tenna, giving out orders and trying to get everything in order, that was until he saw you standing there, with your little boy in your arms, looking around curiously.

He tried to be casual about it, but deep inside, his heart was pounding, his wires warming his body with electricity. He loved seeing you parent, and he wished he could get more familiar with your son without you being so protective. He approached you two in gentle steps, taking deep breaths as to calm himself and not overwhelm you.

“Good morning, sorry for waking you so early.” He gave a small smile, and crouched down a bit. “Who’s this little guy?” He laughed. Your son looked up at him and his eyes lit up a bit in recognition. “Enna?” He muttered. “Very close, buddy, my name is Tenna!” He smiled, holding out his hand for a shake, which quickly gained a response, with your son placing his small hand in Tenna’s big hand, which he then shaked gently.

You were a bit tense, standing there and watching the scene unfold before your eyes. Why did it bother you so much? Maybe because after multiple attempts at dating, you learned it’s best not to introduce your son to anyone, and then disappoint the little guy when that person left, like everyone else.

Yes, in your mind, Tenna was at the same level of trust as a possible dating candidate. But you didn’t pay mind to it. Deep inside your heart, it was your desperate need for him causing all these conflicting emotions to bubble up at the surface. He wasn’t eligible for parenting… He was famous and had no time for kids, and no responsibility, irresponsible ass-

“Do you need me to watch him for a bit?” Tenna looked back at you, a small smile on his screen as your son’s fingers were wrapped tightly around his pinky, not letting go. “Uh, no. No need for that.” You dismissed the offer, though, your tone was not harsh, still a bit stunned at the sight of your son being so clingy.

“Okay, buddy, let go,” You removed his fingers from Tenna’s, your hand brushing against his metallic palm in the process. Your eyes met for a moment, before you took a step back. “So, what’s the most urgent task right now?” You asked. “Right now, it’d be to make sure we have everyone on board.” He spoke anxiously. “Got it, I'll make some calls. I’ll order some food as well.” You noted to yourself, before turning and walking toward your office, with your son still in your arms.

Inside the office, you sat down at your desk, letting your boy sit in your lap as you began to make many calls to Tenna’s employees. As you played the bearer of bad news to multiple Shadowguys, Zappers, and even the weather couple themselves - Lanino and Elnina, your boy reached out curious hands and played with the string of the phone.

Hanging up the last call, you let out a deep sigh and looked down at your boy as you felt a tug at your sleeve. “Yeah?” He looked up at you with a cranky expression. “Are you hungry, buddy?” You asked, to which he nodded with a small pout. “Hm, okay, let us find you something to eat.” You stood up with him still in your arms, poking his little cheek to try and cheer him up, earning a small chuckle.

You two made your way out of the office space and to the green room, you stopped by Ramb’s stand, fishing money out of your pocket for the vending machine. At that moment, he opened up the curtain, and smiled softly as he saw your son peeking over your shoulder. “Morning, Ramb,” You turned to him with a smile. “Say, is that your boy?” He asked while organizing bottles.

“Yeah, seems interested in you,” You smiled, turning to him. “A little sweetheart, ey?” He reached out a calloused hand for a handshake. He hesitated, but eventually reached a small hand to meet Ramb’s, who shook his hand. “Proper little fella.” He said in his smooth accent. Your son hid his face in your shoulder shyly.

“Don’t mind it, he’s just hungry.” You smiled at the older man, before turning to put your coins in the slot of the machine. Just then, you heard a voice from across the room. “PAUSE!” You looked over, startled. It was none other than Tenna.

“Mr. Tenna?-" You began, only to be cut off. "No assistant of mine will feed their child from the vending machines!” He declared. Other employees were looking in your direction by now, and you could see Elnina and Lanino walking into the building, all disheveled in their robes. You looked back up at him, stunned.

“Why didn’t you ask me? I would've provided some proper food for him!” Tenna continued rambling, “And you wouldn’t have to pay a single point!” Ramb tried to put in a word, “C’mon, boss, the boy was just-” “NONE of that! He’s growing, and needs proper food!”

“I didn’t ask for feedback.” You responded, rather harshly. “Well, it must be said! Look at that little guy! Do you think that’s right?” He gestured to the cranky boy in your arms. You were shocked, what the hell has gotten into him with this behavior? “Boss, be for real here,” One of the Pipins spoke up, as your son shifted in dissatisfaction.

“You all are promoting this because the points from the vending machines go to you, terrible little Pipins!” He turned to you. “Do you think this is acceptable??” He asked again, as if expecting you to agree with him.

“I said, I didn’t ask for your feedback!” You barked back at him. The little boy in your arms began crying, holding on to the fabric of your top. Tenna’s demeanor seemed to crumble as he saw your boy crying. He stepped back, his lip quivering as he looked at you trying to comfort your crying toddler. “W-Well-” The realization had sunk in now.

“Shhhh,” You rubbed his back, “We’ll get you something on the way to daycare.” You muttered in hopes of comforting him, and walked out of the greenroom, leaving Tenna in the quiet room with his heart hurting from guilt.

Chapter Text

“Shhhh,” You rubbed your son’s back, “We’ll get you something on the way to daycare.” You muttered in hopes of comforting him, and walked out of the greenroom, leaving Tenna in the quiet room with his heart hurting from guilt.

He looked around at the employees, his screen turning a slight pink, he sniffled and took a minute to compose himself, “Everyone back to places! The lighteners will be here any minute!” He clapped his hands, moving people along.

But instead of preparing himself, Tenna headed upstairs to his office, shutting the door and opening the drawers of his desk in a clumsy and anxious manner. He dug through the top drawer until he found his secret stash. He got a cigar out and got a box of matches from his chest pocket, classic.

With shaky hands, he pulled out a match and lit it after a few tries, holding the fire to the tip of the cigar, and taking in a deep inhale, before even killing the fire. After exhaling through his long nose, he killed the fire into his ashtray and picked it up, walking over to the window and placing the ashtray on the ledge.

He let out a deep sigh, gazing out at the city. The tension was killing him, and now he had to go and act so dumb! But, it wasn’t for no reason.

He wanted to take care of you. You were more than just an assistant to him, he valued your opinion, and cared for your wants and needs, including your child. All he wants is for you to let loose and give him a chance, to love you, and take care of you…

Tenna watched as your car pulled out of the parking lot, that same, pale blue, scratched up car that he had gotten familiar with, always with the booster seat inside, and your own charm indented on it with small stickers and a steering wheel cover with stars on it. He was a man of high regard, but - stars, how much he wanted to be as simple as you. Simple, yet so complex, so unknown.

He wanted to support you, and he wanted your support more than anything. Having you as his assistant meant having a taste of what that life would feel like, spending days together, and doing mundane tasks alongside each other.

The cigar was already half gone by the time he had snapped out of his thoughts. He took in another deep inhale. Gazing out of the window where your car had drove away from the building, he saw three short figures, one with blue skin and hair, but oh-so familiar features, the tallest, with purple skin and magenta hair, and the third, a goat-like figure, with white fluff, a green robe and a bright pink scarf.

Tenna didn’t have to look twice at the abnormally-colored human to realize it was HIS human, the one who grew up on the couch watching him. They were here. Kris was here. He crushed the cigar and rushed out the door, clapping and snapping his fingers to get the employees’ attention, still standing at the head of the stairs.

“Everyone, into places!” He called out, and started beckoning his workers to the direction of the stage. “Lights on them in that emotional moment!” He sped down the stairs, fixing his tie as he did. He made his way to the stage, watching from his spot as the purple girl was seemingly caught in an argument with the prince.

“...Just forget about us and make some real friends, okay?” The prince spoke with a smile. The girl grabbed him by his cloak. “You IDIOT! How can you say that?!” She shook him. “No matter what you say, or what you are, me, you, Kris, we’re a team!” She sighed. “So please, just… Just…”

At that moment, Tenna signaled to shine the spotlight on them. They both looked startled. “Wow! What an AMAZING performance!” The CRT called to them. “Who the HECK are you?!” They both called back. “Thank you for asking, MIKE, play the VHS!” He glanced backstage, and the intro began rolling.

He wasn’t visible to them yet, as he stood at the side of the stage, nervously fixing his tie and fiddling with his hands. After the beautiful presentation finished rolling, he appeared on stage with them, and put on his act, explaining the prize, and even convincing the stubborn girl to agree to play. After that small first segment, he met the three backstage.

“I hope you all have your snacks and drinks, because once we start, there will be no bathroom breaks! Are we ready to begin the show?” He crouched down a bit to meet their heights. As they agreed, they all began the part of the actual show where they told their names, although restricted to only 3 letters, somehow both Kris and the purple girl who’s name was Susie, chose “ASS”. Clever.

The first board was a lot of fun, and Tenna enjoyed seeing the teens having a good time. After the games and cooking minigame were over, the heroes were sent to the greenroom, and Tenna took a moment to himself, rushing past his employees to his office on the second floor. He shut the door and rushed over to his desk, pulling out a new cigar.

The man was so fancy he could allow himself to chain smoke cigars. He lit it once more, taking in a deep inhale as he sat down at his desk. He noticed the time, it was already 10am, and you weren’t back. He hesitated before reaching for the phone, dialing your number, and holding the receiver to the side of his thick screen.

The phone rang and rang. It felt like hours waiting for you to answer, while he nursed on the cigar. Eventually, the call went to voicemail. His attention perked up as he heard your voice, “You reached my voicemail, leave a message after the beep!” His heart was racing. You’d never ghosted his calls before, and so he’d never heard your voicemail. You sounded so carefree, as if you recorded the message in a lighter time of your life.

He then realized that he was still quiet. He sat up straight, stumbling over his words. “I- I- uh. My assistant, I understand you aren’t coming back, I…” He sighed. “I don’t expect you to come back to work today after the way I behaved. And you still have tomorrow off, as we agreed.” He bit his lip, his fingers leaving the cigar in his ashtray and coiling into the cord instead. “I do apologize, I’ll see you Thursday morning.” He ran a hand over his face as he hung up.

“Idiot…” He muttered to himself, pulling on his antennae in frustration. He grabbed the cigar and spun in his chair to face the window, taking in a deep inhale. “Damn!” He stood up, enraged, kicking the wall over and over.

“Boss…?” He heard a voice from the door. It was motormouth Mike, not like Tenna knew any difference. He paused in his frustrated kicks, turning to the small figure with heavy breathing. Mike looked hesitant. “It’s… Time for the second board.” He spoke quietly.

“Be right down…” He sighed, falling back into the chair. Mike approached him. “You okay, boss?” He asked. Tenna stayed quiet for a moment before turning to him. “Peachy.” He said through gritted teeth. Mike took that as his sign and turned away, fixing his bowtie before he left.

-

The second board was going great, and the games enabled Tenna to get his mind off of you for a while. It seemed the teens were having fun, and he was having a lot of fun himself, though he still felt guilty. Seeing your boy cry like that, it reminded him of how little Kris tried to find comfort watching TV. They'd watch him, while Toriel and Asgore would fight. That stung, deep, and the guilt was still eating at him. In your kidת Tenna saw the same little human child who’d sit on the carpet in front of his screen and watch TV, blocking out the rest of the world.

“Tenna?” Susie spoke up. “Y-Yes?” He looked back at her, a bit frazzled. “You okay, man?” She looked over at him. “Yeah, you got quiet for a moment, Mr. Tenna.” Ralsei added, polite as always. “Yes, I’m quite alright.” He cleared his throat, fixing his tie before he got his hosting act back on.

He couldn’t keep ignoring these feelings.

Chapter Text

It’s been two days since Tenna’s outburst. At night, he couldn’t sleep. On stage, he couldn’t think. Was this the end? You were never going to set foot in his building again.

The morning light from outside reflected on Tenna’s screen as he sat at the end of his large bed. Gazing out at his fancy bedroom, he was once again reminded of his lavish lifestyle. He had to tone it down if he ever wanted a chance with you. But, that’s what people wanted, didn’t they? To be with a celebrity like him, to join him in his big way of living. Didn’t they? Not you, he was sure of it.

He sighed and stood up, stretching out his limbs in his wife-beater and boxer shorts. He slid his feet into the plush slippers sitting by his bedside table, and made his way to the connected bathroom. He looked at himself in the mirror, slicking back his antennae.

He reached into one of the drawers of his marble counter, taking out a small jar of silvery-clear paste, and a small bottle with a yellow-ish liquid in it. He used the bottle first, flicking off the cap and using the liquid to oil up his joints. He’d drip some inside the crevices of his joints and stretch out, his body becoming less creaky. He capped the bottle back up, and reached for the bottom of his tank, lifting it over his head and tossing it aside.

He then unscrewed the jar and sunk his fingers into the paste, grabbing a good amount and warming it between his hands. He then spread it all over his arms and chest, working it in real good. Then, he reached for a cloth hanging by the gold sink, and began wiping himself down, removing all the grime from his metal body and leaving him shiny and new by the end of this process.

-

You yawned as you were mashing some bananas for your son. He was sitting on the couch, playing around with one of the few toys he had. “You okay over there?” You called out to him. “Uh huh.” He answered, voice quiet and distracted. You reached into the fridge to grab some milk. Opening the door, you gazed at the packed fridge and gave a small sigh, pulling out the carton of milk.

You poured some into a bowl and put it in the microwave to warm up. While that was cooking, you grabbed a pack of your son's favorite biscuits from the cupboard, and got a few out. Once the milk was warm, you put three biscuits in the bowl of milk and stirred it up until it turned to mash, before adding the banana to this beautiful mess. You put in your son's little green spoon and went over to the couch.

"Hey, buddy, look what I got!" You smiled at him, showing him your creation. His eyes lit up. "Really?" He smiled. "Yeah, how long has it been since you had this?" You rubbed his shoulder. "Let's go sit properly at the table."

You got up and walked over to the table without carrying him, to give him a challenge. He stood up on his feet, taking a moment to find his balance before walking over to you. Your smile widened. "That's my boy," You ruffled his hair and helped him into the seat.

You put the bowl on the tray in front and gave him the spoon. He wasted no time digging in, his eyes bright with happiness as he ate his favorite food. He smiled up at you, "Thank you." He said with his mouth full.

You smiled back. "Don't eat too fast, buddy." You said and sat down beside him, leaning your elbow on the table and resting your cheek in your palm, watching him with gentle eyes, not tired though, you were well-rested for once. Having a break was nice. It's not like you despised the set, but who wouldn't take a break day over a day of work?

Besides, the past two days were a much needed barrier between you and Tenna after his little shit-show. You got to actually reflect and calm down. Thinking about it, he was an anxious guy underneath his TV persona, he probably just didn't know how to approach this.

Wait, approach this? The hell did he need to approach? Taking control of how you raise your kid?

Wait. Why does he seem to try and be so involved? It's not in a bad intended way, only maybe he... Missed his own family? All his life, he displayed TV for the Dreemurrs, watching them go through the birth of Asriel, the adoption of his dearest Kris, and the divorce, most importantly. Maybe he feels more for you than just an employee. Maybe he just wants to feel important again.

You watched as your boy enjoyed the food, some paste smeared on his cheeks. "Oh, you little cutie!" You picked him up and hugged him tight, making him burst into giggles.

-

After getting dressed in his neatly pressed suit, Tenna made his way down the grand stairs, glancing at the posters and advertisements on his walls, each representing an era in his career. He made his way into the kitchen, heading toward the fridge. He opened it up and looked over the contents. With a sigh, he shut it closed again. He’d just pick up breakfast on the way to set.

He glanced at his watch, 8am, time to head over. He got his shiny yellow shoes on before stopping at his entry-way mirror to fix himself up before leaving. He tightened his tie, fixed up his collar and straightened his suit, before grabbing his keys and heading out. He looked around, feeling the cold morning breeze run through his ventilation.

He made his way over to the garage, where his beautiful, shiny, red Ford Escort sat. “Morning to you too, baby.” He muttered, patting his car before unlocking it and sitting inside. He felt his leather steering wheel before a thought ran through his head. Would he have the guts to do it?

Before he could think, he picked up his phone, flicking it open and finding your number and dialing. He looked away and pressed ‘call’. The phone rang and rang, he was about to hang up and then you picked up.

-

You were dressing up your boy when the phone started ringing. You saw the contact and sighed, picking it up and propping it between your ear and shoulder as you changed your son. “Pleasant morning, boss?” You spoke.

“My dearest, I hope you’ve, erm, received my voice mail.” He slicked back his antennae, smiling anxiously. “I have.” You muttered. “I was wondering if maybe, instead of coming to set right away, you’d come with me to that café I like?” You immediately recognized which one he was talking about. He’d order from that café a good few times a month and sometimes go there for lunch.

He freaked out even more over your silence. “I’d,” he began. “I’d like to have a proper conversation about what happened on Tuesday.”

You thought about it for a moment. “Alright. I’ll be there.” You hated yourself for agreeing to this, but it had to happen. You had to talk it out like proper adults. “I’m- I’m glad. I’ll see you there.” He hung up, throwing the phone on the seat next to him and gripping the steering wheel. He shook his head and started up his car.

After driving your kid to daycare, you took a U-turn from the usual way to the ‘TV Time’ set, and instead drove to where you were used to being sent to pick up coffee orders for Tenna. You turned into the small parking lot, seeing the only free parking spot was next to Tenna’s signature red car, you grumbled to yourself and parked beside it.

By miracle, Tenna came out of his car as soon as you did, with a small smile on his face. “Oh, gee, what timing!” He chuckled. You glanced at him, his car standing between you two. “Morning, glad to see you.” You offered a nod before shutting off the car.

He did so to his, and you two walked into the building in silence.

He had to shrink his size a bit to fit into the small coffee shop. It was cozy, and all themed around 80’s culture. You scooched into the booth, placing your bag at your feet. He sat across from you, fixing his suit before he looked at you. It felt nicer when you were eye level with him, felt a bit more down-to-earth.

“Did you, well. Did you have a good time with your son? These two days?” He began. “Actually, I did. Took care of myself as well.” You answered, confidently changing the subject from your son, as you picked up the menu.

He looked down at his hands, his nose nearly poking the table as he did. Soon enough, a waiter walked over, and greeted you two. “Good morning, folks! I see Mr. Ant Tenna has some time off his show, haha. Are you two ready to order?” They asked, personality bright and cheerful. He looked up at you. “What would you like?” You took a moment to think. “Just an espresso, please.” You spoke, gazing back into the menu.

He turned to the waiter. “I’ll have my usual, please. With cinnamon bites, this time.” He gave a polite smile. “Nooo problem! I’ll get that going for you two.” They smiled and collected your menus before disappearing to place in the order.

You looked up at him messing around with the end of his tie. Idiot. He deserved to feel guilty after that scene in the greenroom. These past two days have been the most calm you’ve had in years, yet you still held it against him for lecturing you in front of everyone, seemingly out of nowhere.

The orders were brought to you two soon enough, a coffee for you, a coffee for him, and a tray of a dozen cinnamon bites in the middle of the table. “Enjoy, you two!” The waiter gave a warm smile and scurried off once more. “Please, have some,” He pushed the tray in your direction. You swallowed your pride and reached out, taking one of the small, sticky pastries, eating it in two bites, and wiping the sugary syrup leftover on your fingers, on the napkin beside you. You had to admit it was really good, but really sweet too. You washed it down with a big sip of your coffee.

Tenna took one for himself, eating it in barely a few chews, and sucking the syrup from his fingers. You softened a bit. He was so anxious, trying to make it up to you, at least you could try to be nice, while also trying to figure out what the fuck that behavior was two days ago.

“So,” You looked up at him. “Having Kris around, that must’ve been exciting?” You offered a small smile. He looked up at you, his antennae perking up a bit. “Well, yes. I think Kris and their friends enjoyed the games. I hope, at least.” He muttered.

“I’m sure they did,” You nodded before taking another sip of your coffee. He exhaled. “Yeah?” He asked again. “Well, of course they’d enjoy it. I know how much time you spent brainstorming ideas and creating the boards.”

He fiddled with his hands. You looked up at him. “Mr. Tenna, why did you do that to me on Tuesday?” You finally asked, voice quiet. He almost spit out his coffee. “I-” He stopped himself. “I… I owe you an answer, but I can’t think of a logical reason. I mean, I care a lot for you and your son, but I still shouldn’t have barked at you like that.”

“You really shouldn’t have.” You nodded.

He looked at you, his face sincere and guilt ridden. “I suppose… You’re more to me than just an assistant. I value you. And I hope this isn’t too forward but,” He took in a deep breath through his nose. “I admire you quite a lot.”

Your eyes widened a bit, heart racing suddenly. “Admire me?” You repeated. He hurried to find an explanation. “Your ability to make everything right, it’s admirable. How you present yourself, too. You’re quite,” He looked away. “Quite attractive too.”

“Are you being serious?” You answered quietly, still stunned by what you’d just heard. He nodded. “I’m, well- Flattered.” You looked away. “I didn’t think your opinion of me was so….” You paused, trying to phrase it right. “So… big.”

“I know I've been pushing boundaries, I apologize.” He reached out a hand. “You- you have been. Quite a lot.” You spoke though gritted teeth. He pulled his hand back. “You do not have to answer me now, but just know… That I see your efforts. You’re very much appreciated.” He spoke before the table went into silence.

Not for long though, as soon enough your waiter came back, “Heya folks, everything alright over here?” You both gave a small nod. “Alrighty, then.” They turned and left to greet some newcomers. You reached for another one of the small pastries.

“You’re staying?” He asked timidly, having expected you to leave already.

“Maybe I need to change my perspective.” You looked up at him. He smiled a bit. You each took a pastry for yourselves, eating it before Tenna started speaking.

-

You slowly warmed up to the conversation, opening up a bit and really actually listening to Tenna. You even allowed yourself to expose some details on the struggles of full custody of your boy, how it was the best decision you could make, and the struggles that came along with it.

You two got lost in time until Tenna’s phone rang. “Oh, hold on,” He dug the small phone out of his pocket, flipping it open and hitting answer. “Mike?” He spoke into the phone. He spoke on the phone for a few more minutes before turning back to you, smiling. “I think it’s time for us to get to work.”

You chuckled, maybe for the first time ever since he met you. His cheeks went warm for a moment before he called over the waiter for the check. “Should I-” You began, before he interjected, holding up a hand.

The check was quickly brought over and he paid for the coffee and food. “C’mon, Mike sounded a bit stressed out.” He smiled, standing up from the seat. You scooched out of your seat and followed him out.

As you two walked to your cars, he smiled to himself at the sight of your pale blue car next to his shiny red one. “So, just drive after me?” He teased. You gave a small smile back, unlocking your car and getting in. His car pulled out of the driving spot first, and drove slowly to the exit of the parking lot where it connected to the main road. You followed, driving after him.

He glanced in his rearview mirror, making sure you were following before he drove down the road. You followed after him the whole way to set, waiting behind his car in red lights, and making turns in unison. He smiled to himself the whole way. As you two pulled into the parking lot of the ‘TV time’ set, he went to park in his usual reserved parking spot, and you went to yours by the brick wall.

As you organized your bag, still sitting inside your car, you heard some loud speaking from the building entrance. “Boss!” You could see tall Mike walking out. “The ‘uman and their friends done went past the board!” “WHAT!” He pushed past him, rushing into the studio. You sighed.

There we go again.

Chapter Text

But something felt off this time.

You got out of the car, making your way around it and locking the door. You rushed up to the ‘TV time’ building, pushing the doors open. Looking at the monitor screen, you could see the contestants were trapped in plastic spheres on stage, with Tenna talking to them as the doom board played in the background. You could see he was tense. The complete opposite side of the caring man you’d been chatting with the past hour.

You kicked one of the doors in frustration before rushing across the deserted greenroom. Where were the actors? The employees? Where the hell was everyone?!

You’d thought about this, you heard the gossip around the studio, whispers of “Tenna’s losing it.”,“This show won’t last after those lighteners.” and “Better quit before it’s too late.” It’s been a long time coming. You spent the past months trying to keep up morale while slowly draining the budget with catering, promotions, whatever it took to keep them happy, but now, the worst of all was happening.

Employees were leaving, darkeners not native to the TV world were turning into cold stone statues, and you were witnessing it through the eyes of a poor, overworked assistant. Rushing from room to room, you saw it all - torn contracts, nearly empty hallways, and many of the Pipinses yet to leave, lingering around statues of once living darkeners.

Before long, you remembered the scene you saw in the entrance. Looking back at the monitor, the stage was empty. Your heart was racing. You had to stop Tenna before he made a terrible mistake. In your search, you reached the cooking show set. With employees dancing all around, celebrating their destroyed contacts, you were witnessing the end of a fight between the lighteners and the weather couple, including their smoking hot new partner.

“Look, Lanino and Elnina are-” The prince exclaimed. The duke of puzzles spoke up. “Gehahah, separate? US? No, I think: Freakinge not.” He smiled, pride in his words. “I think thou missedst thine vitale fact, thereupon, the three of us.” He paused. “Are in a teame relationshipe.” He grinned. “Just liketh you guyse.”

The girl’s eyes widened. “The hell are you talking about?” The prince added. “L…Like us?” The duke squinted his eyes at the three. “Wait, you guyse artn’t a thinge?” The girl looked at him. “No.”

“Um, I-” Lanino spoke up, only to be interrupted by the duke. “Not nowe Honeye. I’m processinge thise.” Lanino looked away sadly, while his beloved Elnina stood at the duke’s other side, wide eyed. Suddenly, he walked to the other side. “Don’t call me honey anymore.” He spoke quietly, eyes guilty.

His lover’s gaze moved to him. “La-Lanino?” She spoke. “I’m sorry, Elnina, I’m going to the other side.” He dared not look at her. “I…” She muttered, before walking over to the lighteners side too.

His eyes widened as she spoke, “I’m going too!” She exclaimed. “I thought you were the one who liked Rouxls, so i…” She looked away. He walked over to her. She looked up at him. “I’m sorry, my sunshine.” He took her hand. “I’m sorry, my dewdrop.” They both smiled. “The weather should always stick together.”

“Ah, ha ha ha!” The duke laughed weakly. “Just as planned, the two loverse are reunited.” He bowed, lowering his chef’s hat. “I shall now… Taketh my leave.” He stepped back.

Just then, the king’s son, Lancer, ran over. “Hey, lesser dad, lesser dad!” He smiled up at him. “The guys with the big guns want to know when they’re gonna get paid!” He added, prompting the duke to make a run for it. A few shadowguys ran after him, and Lancer followed. The purple girl erupted in laughter.

Your eyes were fixed on the scene as the weather couple cried together over their shared discomfort. After the sobbing, Lanino spoke up once more. “From now on, the only lover I need is someone I can share the sky with.” He smiled at Elnina.

From the other side of the room, you saw a large star walk over with finesse and fierce energy. He stopped by the two. “Star Walker.” He spoke. God, what confidence.

Once the three took their leave, you turned to the bar, getting your clipboard out and snapping your fingers for an employee’s attention. Of all the dancing Shadowguys and Pipinses, one looked at you with their one open eye. “Pipins, what the hell is going on??” You asked anxiously. They smiled. “The lighteners helped shred our contracts!”

Your eyes widened. “What?? That’s not-” You began, before noticing the lighteners leaving the room. “Forget it,” You muttered, rushing to follow after them. Past the red curtains, they walked out to the bridge area.

You followed them, sneaking around piles and finally, you were met with the sight of Tenna trying to reason with the employees. “Look everyone, it'll be fine! I’m new, I’m cutting edge, I’m TV!” He explained, voice eager. “Entertainment that never gets old!” He added. But they were leaving, one by one. You marked off each employee who left.

“H-Hey stop, don’t go!” He reached out a hand. “Darnit, this is all that little spammy mailman’s fault!” He held his screen, panicking. “And where is he now?! Arrg, if i could get my hands on-” He paused, realizing each one of the Zappers and Shadowguys was leaving. “Wait, where are you going?? Stop! Help me, help!” He looked up helplessly. “Does anyone know what an E-Mail is?!”

Following the lighteners further, your mind was scattered. In fact, you almost bumped into them as they stopped to hide behind a pile once more. There Tenna was again, this time with Elnina and Lanino.

“Elnina, Lanino?! Old friends, c’mon, you can’t leave!!” He practically begged. They shared a sad look of disappointment and walked away. As he freaked out, he was suddenly stopped by the spotlight flashing on him. “M-Mike? Mike?! You’re leaving too?!” He glanced around. “MIKE, NO, ANYONE BUT YOU!!” He exclaimed. That stung a bit. But you knew Mike meant more to him than anyone, even you. And even if he had no idea Mike was actually three people in costumes taking turns.

Three more marks off.

You followed the lighteners back into the studio. Everything was dull and foggy now, with particles in the air blocking your vision. There you saw it, a Zapper turned to solid stone, and a Pipins staring at the wall. He spoke as the three approached him.

“I don’t get it. Shouldn’t I have been the one to turn to stone?!” He sighed, glancing back at the three. “W-Will he be stuck if he stays like this…?” He asked with a small sniffle. “Kris, you should hurry up and seal the fountain.”

You marked the last person off, walking into the greenroom, defeated. You walked to the wall beside the ranked rooms doors, and stuck the list to the wall. They’ve recruited everyone.

-

The lighteners walked out of the green room to the snowy area.

“Look, there, I can see it!” The prince called out. The three gazed out through the snowy hills to the dark fountain in the distance. “There’s the dark fountain. If we can just-”

“NO, NO, NO!!” They all turned in the direction of the voice, startled. “WHAT are you doing? WHERE are you going?! Ahaha! There are still GAMES to play, SHOWS to watch!!” It was Tenna, he was losing it. His voice was shaky, trying to keep it together. He moved closer. “Laughs and SCREAMS! Smiles and TEARS! Just wander back to your seats and we can-”

Susie swung her axe into the ground, making Tenna, Kris, and Ralsei jump back. “ENOUGH of your dumb games!!” She growled at him. “Why the hell do you want us to play so bad anyway?!”

He looked down at the ground. “Kris.” He spoke softly. “Kris knows why.”

They were swept into an emotional speech from Tenna, about his past, how everybody used to watch him, how Kris had so much fun watching him. But then people stopped coming, and he was left alone completely.

He looked up at them sadly. “And, I’ve been having SO much fun playing with you all,” He continued. “I… Just don’t want it to end!” He smiled sadly. “So please, just say it with me.” He turned to the audience.

“ITS! TV! TIME!” He pointed to them, flashing his charming smile. Susie walked toward him. “Enough already!!” She barked, swinging her axe at him. Tenna fell to the ground, the swing missing him just barely. “We’re done messing around.” She grumbled. “Give back Toriel, now.”

“Alright, I get it.” He looked away. “I GET IT, I REALLY get it!” He pointed. “TALKING! I’ve been doing too much… Talking!!” He laughed. “No more questions! What you need…”

“Is another… PHYSICAL CHALLENGE!”

The four were pulled into a battle. “That’s right, folks, one last challenge! 1000 points or bust! Can you do it??” He smiled arrogantly. The lighteners thought between themselves, before they all spoke: “I love TV!” Tenna gave 40 points.

“1000 POINTS, JUST 1000 POINTS AND I’LL GIVE IT UP! But don’t think it’s going to be easy!! Because today…”

You stepped out onto the stage, guilt on your face. “We’ve got a very special guest!” He called out. The three exchanged looks. “Is that his assistant?” Susie whispered to Kris. They shrugged. Tenna kneeled next to you, and swallowing your pride, you hopped up on his shoulder. You were practically a perfect fit on his shoulder pad.

He gave you a small, hinting smile, and you two started projecting your attacks. The three managed to dodge the laughing stars being flung at them with ease, earning themselves a point bonus. You hated this, but he was your boss, and the risk of losing this show was too great.

“So, our STAR contestants have contested our STARs, but can they survive… Another PHYSICAL CHALLENGE?!” He laughed, sending them into the cooking show minigame. You glanced down at him, as his screen displayed Kris jumping around the counter, dodging fire. “Boss, I don’t think-” You began, only to be shushed by him. “A little trust?” He pinched your leg.

You glanced back at the big screen, displaying another bonus to the lighteners. They again, used their turn wisely, discussing their next move and using their actions. Tenna smiled. “HAHA! No way we can use that take! CUT!!” He nudged you. “CUT, I said!! SMASH CUT!” You held onto him as he jumped up, making a hard clap that split the battle box into two, moving pieces. You made the electric attacks from both sides, while Kris’ soul struggled to dodge in time.

The next turn, they chose the minigame again. Each time they did, you gripped Tenna’s screen, trying to recover enough energy for the next attack. You weren’t a very advanced darkener, and were capable of basic attacks, which took a lot of power from you. You’d lied on your application. Tenna required advanced attacks at the least, for actors and darkeners applying for higher paying jobs.

The lighteners were smart and capable. This wasn’t their first rodeo. They managed to pick up about 900 points in no time, and as the final turn ended, they had built up 1000 points. Tenna was getting impatient, and you were exhausted.

“That’s it! It’s time for the FINAL EPISODE!” He pointed to them in a challenging manner. “What will happen to our HEROES…” He lowered his voice. “When they REALIZE this show is NEVER going to end?!”

This was your moment to truly rest. As he sent them into a series of minigames flashing quickly, you laid your head atop his screen, closing your eyes. Thank god for him being such an old model, otherwise you’d had no space to lay your head. Your breathing was heavy, trying to get some air, gain some energy, gain some, well, courage. What’ll be with the show? What’ll be with your son if the lighteners close the fountain to TV world?

Soon enough, it was over. Your rest was over. Tenna nudged you awake. It was the final attack, and the three were shooting directly at you, and at his head. You held on tight as to not fall off, while also creating the star attacks and shooting them back at the lighteners.

Finally, they got the best of you two, and with a final shot, Tenna stood in place, shocked. You fell off his shoulder, landing hard on the stage. You groaned, fighting unconsciousness as Tenna switched between channels like lightning, before it was all too much, and the screen turned off. “N-No..! No no…” His voice was heard from the darkness, weak and desperate. “Noooooo…” He repeated, as his voice went weaker. He was shrinking in size, until he was only the size of your hand as you sat up weakly.

“I.. I just wanted to be watched.” He lowered his gaze. “One last time…” He sniffled. “I’m irrelevant, I'm junk. I don’t want to be thrown away…” He muttered. The prince stepped forward. “Mr. Tenna, I understand how you feel. To want to be important, to be useful.” He smiled. “You might not be watched much anymore, but that doesn’t make you a failure!” he continued. “There’s nothing to be ashamed of. Darkeners… All become obsolete eventually.” He smiled, a bit of sadness in his eyes. “We shouldn’t make lighteners worry about what happens to us. It’d just make them unhappy, wouldn’t it?”

Okay, depressing, you had to admit. And you could see Tenna shrink even more. “M-Maybe you’re right… But I…” He began, only to be cut off by Susie. “Hey, you wanna know what I think?” She stepped forward, smiling. “I think, you don’t have to take being thrown away.” She began telling her story, how she kept moving towns, moving schools. How she was always seen as the bad girl and never managed to make friends. Yet her speech came to a positive conclusion.

“Even though I thought I was broken,” She turned to Tenna. “I just needed to find the right people, y’know?” She smiled. “So, don’t worry dude, someone out there wants you. Promise.”

Your heart warmed at her speech. Susie was admirable, determined. It was a shame you had to meet the lighteners for the first time during battle. Tenna looked up at her. “SUSIE, you…” He grew right back to his original size, pulling you along with him, holding your weight in his arms like you were nothing. “You’re INCREDIBLE! You’re AMAZING!! No, you’re MARVELOUS!!” He exclaimed, a flower growing from the tip of his nose. You knew that habit he had when he was happy.

He swung you around. “I feel electric, I feel like a million bucks!!” He laughed. “This, this must be what HOPE feels like!” He added. Susie smiled, tossing her hair proudly, before pointing to him. “But… You gotta give back Toriel.”

He nodded. “I understand. I know it’s not what the knight wants, but…Good contestants deserve a good prize!! This way!!” He smiled, and walked to the direction of the big pine tree, propping you back on his shoulder. You held on tight, and whispered in his ear. “Who’s that knight you mentioned?”

He smiled up at you. “No worries, dearest assistant.” Must’ve been from excitement, but he even added a small kiss to your cheek. Your face flushed, and you just held onto him.

Once the lighteners reached you two, he began. “Audience, would you please stand up and clap for our winners!!” He smiled. “For outstanding kindness and bravery, the lighteners have won… THE GRAND PRIZE!!” He exclaimed, pointing up to the top of the tree, where Kris’ mom sat on her throne, fast asleep, wearing royal attire. He gently lowered her down to the ground without waking her.

“Here you go, she’s all yours, folks!” He smiled at the three, while holding onto your hand. “How wonderful, the family is all together again!” He looked so happy, and you were happy too. It seemed that all was going to be fine.

“Now you can all finally-”

You felt a sharp slash to your back. Extreme pain washed over you, as Tenna collapsed and fell down the hill, his arms having been slashed off. You rolled down after him, gasping for air.

“T-TENNA?!” Susie and the rest ran to the edge, where they saw you two rolling down and hitting the cold, icy ground. Tenna fell unconscious, his screen showing static. You weren’t far off from him, groaning in pain before everything went dark.

Chapter Text

This morning, you could’ve never predicted this. Never have you thought you’d be laying in the freezing cold snow, the temperature being the only thing stopping you from bleeding out. As you opened your eyes, everything hurt. More than the impact or slash in your back - the freezing cold was digging into your weak body. You looked around, only with your eyes.

Everything was dark, only particles of snow showed themselves once close enough. “T-Tenna…?” You spoke, voice quiet. “Anyone…?”

The only sound was the wind blowing and whistling, which made your heart jump with each noise. You coughed, and each breath you took hurt in your lungs and throat. Then, you were hit with a realization. YOUR SON.

What was your son’s fate?! The lighteners haven't recruited him, and they were about to seal the fountain, if they haven’t already. You sat up, not caring about the pain. Then you saw him, Tenna - laying still, sniffling, his arms discarded beside him. You tripped over yourself and landed beside him on the ground.

“M-My assistant..?” He spoke, voice barely heard. His sound system must have been damaged. “Tenna, you- I- My son..!” You muttered, looking over his ruined body and at the emptiness around you two. He looked up at you. “Save your energy. Lay down.” He spoke quietly. Your panic showed on your body. Your hands were shaking, tears forming in your eyes. “Lay down.” He repeated.

You wiped your tears, laying down beside him, body quivering. You could only worry about your son at that moment, as you pulled yourself closer. “Get in my suit…” He wheezed. You gave a small nod, unbuttoning his blazer and pressing yourself directly to his chest, wrapped in his blazer. As close as possible, so you two could share the remaining heat. Surviving was all that mattered if you wanted any chance of finding your son and being with him again.

You could hear his struggling breathing, his small whimpers. He tilted his head, trying to get a glimpse of you, but he only saw through a few cracks in his damaged screen. Nothing helped. You held onto his chest, feeling the air from his vents becoming a bit warmer. You sniffled. "Does it hurt?" You muttered. "Hm?" He tilted his head back.

"Your arms - does it hurt where they were slashed off?" You looked up at him. He gave a weak nod. You laid your head back down on his chest.

"So this is how it has to be?" You spoke, rubbing your eye with a cold, shaky hand. "What?" He answered. "Just today you've called me admirable, attractive. This is how it has to end?" You spoke quietly. You could feel his heart beating faster inside its metal cage.

"You..." He began, his voice gaining the smallest bit of power, "You care about that?" You looked up at him. "I am not completely unfazed by your, erm, treatment." God, now your heart is beginning to race too.

"You're..." He hesitated. You allowed yourself to continue, "I admit it, your charm works on me too." You moved closer to him. He sniffled, the surprise showing on his cracked face. “I never,” He thought for a moment. “I never thought you’d reciprocate my advances. I admit I can come off as pushy.”

You sat up a bit, giving him a chance to see you. “Yes, but after our chat earlier today, I understand your intentions.” You reached out a hesitant hand. “I can’t say I don’t, well, feel anything back.” You added quietly. He caught that. “And I fear I might not have another chance to tell you that.”

He took in a shaky breath. “Move to the left, a bit, so I can see.” Your heart fluttered, and you moved to the left. A small smile appeared on his face. “You stayed with me.”
“Of course I did.” You responded, no doubt in your voice. “I saw how much that battle drained you. I regret that.” He spoke in a shaky, apologetic tone. “The battle is over. Right now, we need to stay alive.” He smiled even more. “How are you so calm about this?”

“I’m not. I’m freaking out, and I won’t rest until I see my son again.” You brushed your hair back. “What do you think the lighteners did with everyone?” You added. He sighed. “I’m not sure. They recruited everyone, so they must be taking them somewhere.” His screen glitched as he spoke. “They didn’t recruit my son, I-” You bit your dry, bruised lip. “Will he get wiped out alongside our dark world?!” You started shaking again, tears filling your eyes.

“Hey hey, come lay back down, you’re shaking.” He cut into your panic, gesturing with his nose to the ground. You crawled back next to him, laying down and covering yourself with his blazer, leaning your forehead against his chest. “Your son is probably with the rest of the employees now. Kris and their friends would make sure of it.” He continued, trying to be comforting.

In a pure survival instinct, you hugged him tight, holding onto him like a lifeline.

-

It felt like hours had passed, and your shared warmth was running out. You were shaking and trembling in an embrace. You couldn’t help but worry that you’d both succumb to the cold or your injuries. “Tenna..?” You spoke, voice weak and shaky. He made a small hum. “I think this is it.” You sat up, gazing at the endless dark and falling snow. “Huh?” He moved a bit on his back.

You looked to the ground in absolute defeat. “I just managed to get him back. I just started getting my life in order. My boy doesn’t deserve this.” You sniffled, each pull of air into your nose burning all the way into your lungs. “I just managed to get him back…” You finally broke, crying into your arm, ugly crying, tears rolling down your cheeks and freezing over.

“Darling, please,” He began, but you kept sobbing, kneeling at his side and just letting everything out. He didn’t know what to do. He couldn’t comfort you, he couldn’t tell you he understood, because truly, he didn’t. You folded into yourself, your forehead hitting his chest as if you were praying to be saved from this mess.

“There has to be a solution,” Tenna spoke softly, “I could warm us up.”

“No, your heat is running out!” You sobbed, shoulders shaking. It was one of those full body cries, one of pure hopelessness and loss of direction. All you wanted was to be back to your ‘terrible’ life, in your small apartment, with your dear boy. At least there, it smelled of mold, but you didn’t freeze over.

Tenna glanced around despite his broken vision. Things were looking bleak, and despite not wanting to push you, he muttered, “Maybe,”

“What!” You looked up at him, cheeks flushed and tears running down your cheeks. His heart almost stopped. He’d let you get mad at him anyday… But right now, that wasn’t the point. “You could… Maybe kiss me?” Your face twisted at his words, into a stunned look, from how bold he was, and at the idea of that happening.

“Hear me out!” He wheezed. “It’d make me heat up, a-and it’ll heat us up..!” He quickly explained. You crossed your arms, sniffling as you thought it through. You glanced back at him.

"Forgive me." You muttered, uncrossing your arms and cupping his cheek in a swift move, pressing your lips against his in an urgent kiss. He kissed back almost immediately, his body coiling up just slightly, as if in frustration due to his lack of arms. The kiss was one of understanding and a necessity to survive right now, but for Tenna, this was the highlight of his very existence. This was the very moment he was waiting for, and instead of some fancy restaurant or bar, he was kissing you, on the icy ground, with you both injured and desperately trying to warm up.

Obviously, it was working. His body was heating up, making the hot air of his ventilation come out as steam in the cold environment. You broke the kiss moments later, looking down at him with hazy eyes. He couldn't hold back a dumb smile, but didn't say anything, not wanting to push your boundaries.

Seeing how he was heating up, you fell back down, atop his now warm chest, a stark contrast to the sharp cold surrounding you two. Tenna smiled to himself. His only wish right now was that he could hold you back, instead of laying still. But the sheer fact he was keeping you warm kept the pride in his heart burning.

“That’s all it took?” He let out a breathy laugh, one of disbelief.

After a few moments of silence, he spoke again. “Hey uh, hope that didn’t drain your energy too much.” He laughed weakly. Silence. He tried your name, but you didn’t respond to that either. “Dear-” He tried to sit up a bit, to see if moving you helped, but it only made things worse, as you rolled off his warm body and onto the cold ground once more, your face falling straight into the snow.

That’s when he saw it from the corner of his cracked screen - The fabric of the back of your top was soaked with blood. His heart began racing, and he nudged you with his leg. He kept calling your name, panicked, as he flipped you on your back using his foot, but as if it couldn’t get any worse, the strain he put into pushing you over, pushed him the other way, “Woah, WOAH!-” Until he landed on his face.

“Noooo!” He groaned, only to be silenced by the snow. He laid down - defeated. Until a realization hit him. He’d be fine in the snow, but you wouldn’t make it. He wiggled around, moving his legs to try and lift himself in a panic. He kept talking in muffles into the snow, calling your name and trying to keep making noise so maybe you’d respond. He wiggled until he felt your body with his leg. He nudged you gently.

“Wake up, wake up!!” He whined for what felt like an hour, voice desperate. Eventually, he sighed and slumped down, trying to think this through. The least he could do was try to warm you however he could, so he decided to scoot as close as he could and lay his legs on you. He positioned himself so his calves laid upon your stomach, and he moved his legs to make friction, almost like trying to start a bonfire. He could feel the warmth between you two, and he prayed that was enough.

-

Hours passed, maybe days, maybe no time passed at all, as he laid, sunk in the snow, hoping his legs were enough to make you hold on to reality. Forget the mailman and his stupid phone call - This was the loneliest he’d ever felt.

For one last time, he attempted to call out, “Kris…? Susie? Anyone…” He wheezed, starting to weep, a weak, pathetic cry. “Kris, come get your TV..!”

But nobody came.

Chapter Text

After hours, the environment remained the same, blowing violent winds, freezing cold temperatures and icy snow. Though, a change had occurred. Now instead of the silence and whistle of cold wind, there was an additional sound of quiet sobbing and sniffling from a certain TV host.

That quiet, pathetic weep was foreign to the snow. Tranquility was the norm, and he was disturbing it. Then, as if in spite of the silence, sounds of footsteps crunching in the snow broke through the wind. Tenna was indifferent to the sound, having been buried deep under a layer of snow, and his depression.

He had lost everything all over again, there was no hope left in his poor little mind, so he resolved to stay in the snow, sobbing headfirst into the soft white.

"Yo, Mr. Tenna!" He heard a gruff voice call from afar. He turned his head a bit. "Dude, there they are." It was Susie, with her human companion, Tenna’s beloved Kris. They rushed over to him, kneeling by his damaged body.

"Tenna, what's up with you?" She flipped him over on his back with the help of Kris. He glanced around, sniffling once more. "The boy, did you get him?" He asked weakly. The two looked confused. "What boy?"

"My assistant's son." He wheezed. She glanced at Kris. "Did we recruit some kid?" To which they shrugged. She turned back to Tenna, puzzled. "Do you know where they live?" She brushed some snow from his face. He nodded weakly. She helped him up, purple face twisting a bit from the strain. "Kris, get his arms," She began maneuvering through the snow in the direction of the studio. "Now, where the hell is-" She began, only to be interrupted by the prince himself, walking through the snow with a gentle smile, scarf blowing in the wind.

"Sorry, Susie, I'm here!" Ralsei beamed. "Great, we're going to find his assistant's son," Susie explained. He glanced around. "Where is his assistant?"

"I tried to keep the warmth between us..." Tenna muttered, gesturing to the pile of snow where he laid. The prince made a small gasp, and began digging into the snow. He scanned the area until he found a red patch within the pristine white, and dug deeper with his gentle white claws.

Finally, he found you, curled up in the snow, luckily still breathing. His face twisted in concern, but as he lifted you from the snow, his face showed surprise. "Still warm." He muttered, glancing back at the others.

"Ralsei, use your healing and watch over until we get back from recruiting." Susie instructed, while guiding Tenna away, as Kris trailed behind them. Ralsei sat in the snow next to you, and propped you up on a pile so you'd sit up. As he did, he noticed stains of red on his fur.

Quickly, he concentrated and casted ‘heal prayer’ on you. He noticed the green glow spreading across, and you took in a deep breath. "Excuse me?" He nudged you. Still no answer. Gosh.

-

Susie helped Tenna through the empty halls of the TV time set, the host, human and monster looking over the statues of their lost recruits - Ramb in his bar, Zappers and even some Pipinses.

Making it out onto the street Tenna gestured to his shiny red car. "Can you kids drive?" He glanced down at Susie. She shot Kris a grin. "Totally."

As they got into his car, which was left unlocked, Tenna looked to the other side of the parking lot through cracked vision. He took in the sight of your car. Your faded, sticker covered car he grew to adore, just as much as he adored you, now left stranded.

He sighed as Susie buckled him into the passenger seat, and strutted around the car to the driver's side. Kris got in the back, placing Tenna's discarded arms in the seat beside them.

Susie started up the car, smiling smugly. "OK, lead the way, GPS." She chuckled. Tenna woke up a bit. "Pull out of this parking lot to the main road," He began, and Susie began driving following his instructions. Her driving was bumpy and reckless, but dark world vehicles were surprisingly easy to operate compared to their light world counterparts.

“Take a left here, then a right after that light.” He explained, trying hard to see the road through his damaged screen. Susie’s eyes glimmered as she drove, following his directions, all the way until they made their way to your apartment building. Susie parked into a bush, and rushed out the car. “You know what floor?” She looked back at Tenna.

“Third. Brown door.” He sniffled, getting out of the car and leaning on walls the whole way up the stairs so he wouldn’t tip over. Kris stayed close behind him, helping balance the host. Soon enough, the three reached the third floor, and could now clearly hear the sound of a child’s cry from inside.

Tenna’s expression twisted into one of urgency. He rushed up and fell against the door, which wasn’t even locked, and fell open with a bit of pressure. Susie caught him before he fell, and took sight of the apartment. The young babysitter was sitting on the couch, absolutely rock solid, while your little boy was sitting beside her, wailing. From the rasp in his little voice, it was apparent he’d been crying for a while.

The moment he saw the two colorful lighteners and the familiar TV, he made a small hic, wiping his cheeks with his shirt. “Enna?” He asked, his voice small and fragile. Tenna’s heart broke into a thousand pieces right then and there, but he was so relieved to see the little boy was alright.

“Where Riri?” He climbed off the couch and walked over to them timidly. Riri. That must mean you. Tenna crouched down to his level. “We’ll get you Riri, and somewhere to stay, okay buddy?” He spoke softly. The boy sniffled, wiping his eyes as he looked at Susie and Kris shyly. Susie gave a small smirk. “Don’t worry, little dude, we’re here to bring you somewhere nice.” She offered him a fist bump. He hesitated, but eventually bumped fists with her.

Kris gave a small smile and picked the boy up. Susie looked around. “Let’s get some of the kid’s stuff.” She then went around the apartment, shoving snacks and clothes into a bag. “Where’s all his toys?” She asked while putting two toy cars inside the bag. Kris shrugged. “Okay, we don’t have time really.” She sighed, and slung the bag over her shoulder. Tenna gave one last glance at the babysitter before they all left.

-

Kris made sure to hold your son tight the whole bumpy ride back, and cover his eyes when passing through the studio. Finally, they made it back to where Ralsei sat watching over you. “Okay,” Susie handed the boy over to Ralsei, who instinctively held him tight and turned him away from you. “So,” She sat Tenna down. “We’re gonna go seal the fountain and we’ll come get you guys to Castle Town in a sec.” She explained, and looked over to Kris, who gave a nod.

Then the both hurried off to seal the fountain. Tenna looked over at Ralsei. “What’s Castle Town? Is that where all my employees are going?” He asked, to which the prince nodded. “All darkeners can live in Castle Town without turning to stone.” He smiled, still holding the wiggly child in his arms.

“Riri-” Your boy struggled, trying to escape his grip and turn to see you, but Ralsei kept him distracted by drawing shapes in the snow and singing him songs.

Then it all went dark.

-

When Tenna woke up, he could see properly again. His arms were also back. He was laying on a bed in a bright room, but his whole body was sore. He also noticed a slight tan on his metal body…

Then, a round blue figure on the edge of the bed. It was Lancer. “Heya,” He flashed a toothy smile. “Hello…” The TV looked back at him. “Ain’t so cold anymore, hmm? The tanning bed did its job.” He chuckled. Tenna looked a bit stunned, and got off the bed slowly. “Where is my assistant?” He slicked back his antennae.

“You mean that beat up remote?” Lancer hopped on the bed. “I think in the TV building.” Tenna glanced back at him. “The TV building?” He inquired. “Yep, where they put yer little weather people and that Mike guy.”

Tenna’s face lit up. He made his way out of the room, with Lancer trailing behind him. He found himself inside a large hall, seemingly a castle. Beside the door into his room, was another big door, with handles shaped like ‘Q’. He could hear the sounds of a banging mixtape from inside, and what sounded like a car banging into the wall.

He walked past the room and made his way down the stairs. In the next hallway, he passed three more doors, one shaped like a spade, the other purple with a crown, and the next blue. Both colors reminded him of Kris and Susie. He walked down another flight of stairs and was met with a room containing three other doors, one outside, one seemingly to the basement, and a large cauldron in the middle of the room.

He took the door to the outside, and he was met with the sight of a big, beautiful town, with all sorts of shops ranging from a café, to a party dojo, and even a bakery. And among them all, there it was, the TV building. He walked through the town in awe. This so-called Castle Town did look great.

He saw his employees all around the shops, Zappers, Pipinses, Shadowguys, even the water cooler with some darkeners native to Card Castle. Finally reaching the TV building, he saw a long hallway with a few doors. It all looked pretty new and rugged, as if it was still in progress.

He peeked into the rooms, seeing various employees hanging out together or alone, until finally he found the room where you lay, still unconscious. Ralsei was sitting beside the bed, singing gentle songs, as a crib containing your son was in the other corner of the room, where he was playing with his two toy cars. Tenna let out a sigh of relief.

“Hello, prince.” He smiled gently. Ralsei turned his head to look at the voice. “Oh, hey Mr. Tenna! I didn’t expect you to be up so soon. How are you feeling?” He smiled.

Tenna walked over to the bed, muttering “Peachy,” As he looked down at you, laying with your chest bandaged, and breathing slowly. He then turned his attention to your son, playing mindlessly in the crib. “Did he have anything to eat?” He asked the prince.

He nodded. “Yes, not to worry. I made him some warm porridge.” He smiled. Tenna looked a bit relieved, and walked over to the crib. “Hey, buddy?” Your boy looked up at him, a smile showing on his face. He offered a small wave. “Do you need anything?” Tenna asked. The young one thought for a moment. “Water?” He asked politely.

“Of course.” Tenna smiled, turning to Ralsei, “Where can I-”

“Already got it, Mr. Tenna,” He handed him a sippy cup. He looked a bit surprised. “Thank you, Ralsei.” He passed the cup over to the boy, who nursed it for a few seconds before he continued playing - quietly mashing the two worn-out cars into each other.

-

Tenna sat in that room for a while, even after Ralsei left to attend to his other duties. He kneeled by the bed where you laid, occasionally looking over at your son to see if he was alright. Most of the time, he’d be playing or just laying with his curious eyes observing the room, but this particular time, he looked uncomfortable.

“What do you need, buddy?” Tenna asked gently. The younger one looked timid to ask for what he needed, but eventually he muttered in a small voice. “Hungry.”

Tenna raised his eyebrows, placing hands on his knees as he stood up. “Sure, sure sure… Let’s see…” He scanned the room. The snacks barely left in his bag weren’t enough for a suitable meal. “Well, let’s see where we can get you some food, eh?” He gave a small smile and picked the boy up into his arms.

As he made his way to the door, he felt a small fist grab at his suit. “Noooo,” He whined. “Riri-” He pulled at the suit and tried to wiggle from his grip. “Oh, I get it. You don’t want to leave.” He sighed, and put the boy back down. “Well…” He glanced around, thinking of a solution.

“J-Just stay, I’ll be RIGHT back..!” He rushed off, though his body ached to no end, he hurried through the halls to find Ralsei and get something to eat for the boy.

Entering the room once again with a few muffins in hand, he found your son laid on the bed, head in your lap, babbling to himself. His heart melted. He approached slowly, kneeling next to the bed. “Heya buddy, I got you something to eat.” He handed one muffin to the boy. He sat up a bit and accepted the muffin, even muttering a small “Thank you,” with his mouth full as he ate the baked good.

After making sure your boy was fed, changed and comfy, Tenna laid him down to rest and lulled him to sleep by telling him one of the bedtime stories Mike used to read to him. Once the little one was asleep, he walked over to your bed, brushing some hair from your face.

He sighed and turned away, heading out to explore Castle Town.

Chapter Text

Castle Town absolutely blew the TV host's mind. There were darkeners of all shapes, sizes and colors. He'd spent the past days at the café, getting to know Swatch, which he admired quite a lot for being so collected and responsible. He also enjoyed the musical shows by Sweet Cap'n Cakes, Tasque manager, and even his own Shadowguys. He had to admit they looked much better playing shows than fighting in battles like he'd make them.

They didn't hold a grudge, though, nobody did. His employees greeted with a smile, and the other darkeners from Card Castle and the Cyber world were interested in getting to know him.

Some, maybe more than others. A certain Queen had taken quite the liking to the TV.

-

This morning marked the fifth day since Tenna and you were recruited to Castle Town. You were still down under, and Tenna had been making slow progress to bring your son out of the room.

Each morning, he’d try to encourage your son to come out of the room, to explore with him, but no. Each time, he’d refuse to leave your side. And he couldn’t blame the little boy, he was probably so lost and confused. If he tried to take him out of the room, he’d cry in hysterics, reaching back to you, and he’d spend most of the day laying with you in bed, playing with his cars or babbling to himself, words Tenna wished he understood.

He knocked on the door before entering the room. Slowly, the TV building was starting to come together, including your room, which was being decorated quite often by Ralsei. The ceiling above your son's crib had glowing stars painted on it, and the room even had a couch and an actual changing table.

He smiled when he saw your son waking up in his crib. "Good morning." He walked to the crib, kneeling next to it. The boy sat up slowly and gave a big yawn. "Are you ready to go out and explore today, buddy?" He reached a hand to fix the boy's messy hair. He glanced back at him with sleepy eyes, giving a hesitant nod.

Tenna stood back on his feet and lifted the boy out of the crib effortlessly. He rubbed his eyes and yawned, to which he smiled a bit. "Okay, wanna get dressed?" He asked, and the boy nodded. Tenna sat him down on the changing table and reached into the small bag they'd packed him in a rush before closing the fountain. His eyebrows furrowed.

They'd been recycling the same two shirts and one pair of pants since they'd come to Castle Town. Yes, Ralsei had been washing them, but the pants were worn out already, and the shirts had stained beyond cleaning.

With no choice, he changed the little one into the cleanest of the two shirts, and the pants. He combed his hair with his fingers, and then picked him back up. "We're going now, buddy." He patted his back gently, trying to be comforting. Your son looked back at you laying in the bed. "Okay..." He muttered. Tenna tried not to jump in excitement.

He held the small darkener with ease, and kept speaking to him gently as he took him out of the room. The boy leaned his small head on Tenna’s shoulder, his eyes fixed on you as they left the room. Tenna had that dumb smile on his face when he saw how calm your son was being. “We’re going to a place with nice music and food, okay?” He explained as he carried him out of the TV building.

Once he had stepped outside of the building into the cool air of Castle Town, he nudged the little boy’s shoulder. “Hey, look around at all the cool buildings,” He turned him so he was sitting on his arm, looking out at the town. The boy looked around in awe, pointing at the group of Rudinns standing around the water cooler. “You’re not used to other kinds of darkeners, huh, buddy?” Tenna smiled, and made his way around the building on his way to the café, walking at a moderate speed so the little darkener would have a chance to take in the sights.

He was in absolute awe, pointing at other darkeners, who gave back either a confused look or a smile at the sight of the oversized TV host carrying a small child on his arm. Before they even managed to enter the café, Tenna was stopped by a familiar figure. “Oh, TV boy!” Called an elegant voice. He turned to look, and saw Queen herself approaching, carrying a martini glass full of acid, as usual.

“Oh, hohohohohoho!” She laughed. “Tall hunk, Is that little battery yours??” She reached out and pinched the boy’s cheek, making him squirm. “He’s simply adorable.” She smiled. Tenna glanced around, and before he could even answer, she spoke again. “I didn’t know there was a Mrs. Tenna!” She teased, poking his chest.

The host’s cheeks turned a shade of pink. “No, no he is not my child. Rather my assistant’s child.” He explained. She smiled, amused. “And where is said assistant?”

Tenna sighed. “Injured. Still hasn’t woken up since we came here.”

Queen squinted at him. “Well, I think this darling little battery is better off in your hands, just look at the state of these clothes.” She commented, to which Tenna got a bit irritated, but before he could begin, she waved her hand dismissively. “Make sure he is taken care of, hmm?” She looked at your boy again, who was now hiding in Tenna’s chest. “You too, little battery boy.” She shot a smile and patted Tenna’s chest before walking off.

His shoulders relaxed at that moment. He looked down at your son. “Hey, c’mon, let’s go get you something to eat.” He gave him a gentle pat before shrinking a bit and entering the café. Inside, they were met with a warm atmosphere, a smell of desserts and the gentle jazz music coming from the Shadowguys onstage. Your son was in awe of all the different darkeners. Cyber world, Card Castle, TV world, some of everything at each table and by the stage. Tenna approached the front counter, greeting Swatch with a wave, still holding your son in his other arm.

"Good morning, Mr. Tenna." Swatch greeted, voice formal as usual. "And I see we have a guest with us today?" He offered a gentle smile and nod to your son. The little one smiled back shyly.

"This is my assistant's son." Tenna introduced. Swatch's face turned into one of slight concern. He looked up at Tenna from behind his colorful shades. "How IS your assistant?" He asked quietly.

Tenna sighed. Same thing again. "Recovering. I'd hope for a rise from sleep soon as well." He started. "For now, though," He hinted, "I'd like to treat the boy to something good to eat."

"Very well then." Swatch caught on, smiling again. "What kind of treat would you like?" He asked, directly to your son, who blinked at him, and then looked up at Tenna.

They exchanged looks, before Tenna looked back at Swatch with a small smile. "Mind if we have a look at the menu?" He chuckled. Swatch smiled back. "Of course not." He reached to the drawer beside him and handed Tenna a menu with small pictures next to it. On it were all kinds of desserts, from ice cream, to pastries and cakes. Even a variety of drinks and types of tea.

Tenna held the menu up so the boy could see, and he looked through it, eyes lighting up at the images. Tenna pointed to one of them, the ‘Black Tail Churros’, and the boy looked up at him with awe.

"For me?" He asked quietly. "Yeah, buddy, whatever you'd like." Tenna smiled at the kid's dazed expression. Your sweet boy looked up at the host for a few moments before he began sniffling, hiding his face in his elbow. Tenna almost gasped. "H-Hey, what's wrong?" He hurried to comfort him. Swatch looked a bit surprised too. That quiet weeping, with his little shoulders shuddering was enough to shatter Tenna’s heart. He patted his back gently. "Hey, it's okay buddy. I'll get you whatever you want to eat." He spoke, voice soft.

The little darkener sniffled and wiped his tears on his sleeve. Your son was only 3 years old, yet he was so... Aware. He politely gestured to the item again on the menu. “You want the churros, hmm?” Swatch smiled. “Coming right up.” He signaled to one of the Swatchlings in the kitchen.

Tenna walked into the lounge and sat at the table that had the best view of the stage. A few fellow darkeners offered a smile and wave which he returned before sitting your son in the chair and sitting in the one across from him. His little eyes scanned the warmly lit room, before fixating on the stage, where Tenna’s former employees were playing a calming jazz.

Before they knew it, one Swatchling had approached their table with the plate of churros, and a coffee for Tenna. He smiled and thanked him. “Hey, buddy, the food is here.” Tenna mentioned, and your little boy turned to look at him, still a bit stunned. He stood up in the chair and took one sugary churro and gave a curious bite. His eyes lit up and he continued eating.

Tenna watched the little boy forget about everything and just enjoy the food, while he himself was sipping his coffee. The little one had the time of his life, eating while fixated on the musical show playing on stage. Everything was so new to him. Before Tenna even noticed, the food was gone, and all that was left was a smiling little darkener, sat in a chair too big for him, cheeks peppered with sugar, watching the stage in awe.

Tenna chuckled, and that caught the boy’s attention, who turned to him with that big smile still on his face. Tenna grabbed a napkin and reached across the table to clean up the little face. The small one giggled as he was having his cheeks wiped clean of sugar.

“Do you want to go explore? Hmm?” Tenna suggested, to which he received an enthusiastic nod. He dug up some dark dollars from his suit, (which he was luckily able to trick a Pipins to trade him from points) and placed them on the table, before walking around it and picking up the boy, sitting him up at balcony view on his arm. On his way out, he thanked Swatch, and the pair left to continue their adventure.

The boy’s little hand tapped on the side of the CRT’s screen, a smile on his face. “Thank you, Tenna.” He thanked, politely. Truly, a darling little battery.

They made their way back around the buildings and settled in a small park area near the TV building. ‘Close to home.’ Their time was spent drawing pictures in the ground and playing make belief with whoever would join them.

In the midst of a passionate game of “Pilot” with Rudinn and Hathy, the door to the TV building suddenly opened, making you stumble out onto the ground, holding your side. “Where is he?” You muttered, looking around anxiously, face twisted from the pain in your ribs.

Chapter Text

Body hunched in pain, eyes drowsy and looking around in panic, you pushed the door to the TV building open, making you stumble out onto the ground. Holding your side, you muttered, “Where is he?” While looking around anxiously, your face twisted from the sharp pain in your ribs.

The first thing you noticed was how many people there were in the dark little town square. Not long after, your boss, with your kid sitting on his back, looking back at you. Tenna almost gasped when he saw you, and rushed over, with your boy still holding by his neck. He kneeled next to you, letting the young darkener off his back and down to the ground. “Sweet sweet screens,” He breathed out shakily, taking your hand, “How- H-How are you feeling?” He inspected your face.

Your hand slowly slipped from his, and you looked down at your son, who was approaching you with grabby hands. Barely conscious, you scooped him up into a tight hold, and he hugged you back, all giggly and unaware. “Riri is awake!” He kicked his feet as you hugged him so so tight. “S-Sweetie…” You sniffled. “Did you have anything to eat?”

Your boy nodded, and began babbling all about his day with Tenna, while the CRT watched from where he knelt at your side, his brows still furrowed in worry for you, hand hovering behind your back in case you fell over. You smiled weakly while listening to him.

Soon, as he’d suspected, with your son weighing you down, you fell back.Tenna softened the landing by slowly lowering you until you laid on the soft blue grass. The boy had quickly trailed off and began playing with your hand, while you looked around with hazy eyes.

“What is this place…” You breathed out. Tenna peered over you, and carefully explained. “We’re in Castle Town, a safe haven for darkeners of any kind.” You glanced at him. “No more TV world?” He nodded. “No more TV world.”

He gazed at your face, watching that tired, pained expression, he could help but think back on the kiss you two shared in the freezing snow. That kiss of pure survival. It might've actually been what saved you.

He sat you up, his large hand supporting your back as you took in your surroundings.
"Come on," He spoke gently. "Come get some rest," He rubbed your back.

You looked at him, eyes still blurry and your face distrusting. "Aren't you confused about this new place?"

He sighed. "I know it's a lot to take in, but it's been five days since we came here. I'm already situated." Five days. Your eyes widened and you almost fell back again. "Five days I was under?" You muttered.

"Who watched over him??" You held up your son, a bit defensive now. He let go of your back. "Me, mostly. The prince Ralsei too." He muttered hesitantly. "Help me to the room..." You glanced away from him. He sighed. "Of course."

He helped you stand up,"Can I carry you, at least? You seem to be in a lot of pain." He offered gently. You looked away, swallowing your pride. "Yes." You grumbled.

He carefully scooped you up into his arms, his heart aching when he saw your pained expression, which you tried to quickly hide. Slowly but surely, he carried you into the TV building, watching carefully to see if your son was keeping up.

After the slow walk, you three finally reached the room. He walked over to the bed and sat you down on the mattress, holding you up for a moment while he propped up the pillows, then he laid you down slowly. You clutched the sheets a bit and bit back the pain as you got acclimated to the bed.

He helped your little boy climb up into the bed, who curled up next to you. You sighed, running your fingers through his soft black hair.

But when you looked back up, you saw the TV host kneeling by your bed. "Hmm?" The hum left your lips.

He looked up at you with that foreign expression. He wasn't himself, and you couldn't help but feel at fault. "Tenna," "Yes?" He rested his screen on the mattress. "Did you really take care of him for the past 5 days?" You asked gently.

"Mhm." He hummed in affirmation. You looked down at your hands. "I appreciate it." You nodded. He gazed out the window, eerily quiet. "Hey," You continued, but he wasn't really up for it. He just laid his head and gazed out. You reached for his hand. "Hey, c'mon." Still, no real reaction.

"Ant, please." You finally let the words leave your lips. His antennae perked up and he looked at you, screen display almost red. This one took a lot of courage from you. For the past year he'd been strictly 'Mr. Tenna', 'sir' or 'boss'. He sat up and looked at you like a deer in headlights. If he had eyes they'd be wide open you assumed.

"I'm sorry." You looked up at him. "Don't apologize, I just..." He averted his gaze. "I keep messing up with you."

Your heart jumped a bit. He sounded so ashamed, when in fact he did nothing wrong. "It's okay. You did what you thought was right." You reached out a hand to press a few pats to the top of his screen. He exhaled through his nose, kind of like a dog would.

"And, truly, I need to lay off you for a bit." You smiled weakly. "Thank you for taking care of my boy..." He leaned his screen against your hand, looking up at you. For once, the roles were reversed, he was quiet while you talked.

"You know, I could hear you two." You began, "I thought I was dreaming. Now I understand it was all real. The prince singing, you talking to me, and trying to keep my boy busy."

He smiled.

"You said you're situated already, right?" You asked, and he nodded. "Can you tell me about it?" He sat up. "Well, there are darkeners of two other dark worlds other than us," He began.

"There are the darkeners of Card Castle, who are native to this here Castle Town," He shifted a bit, trying to get comfortable on the floor. "Then there are the darkeners of Cyber city, and everyone can stay here because Castle Town is like a safe haven."

"Yeah, you said so." You smiled, before looking out of the window. "And those guys who were playing with you two?" "Those are Rudinns, they're the cards of diamond." He explained. "Hmm." You hummed. "They seem sweet." You added.

“They are.” Said Tenna, looking up at you. “My employees don’t hold any grudges against me, I was very worried about that.” He sighed. You raised your eyebrows. “What about them, by the way? What is everyone doing?” You pressed. He smiled again. “Zappers trying to out-do the Swatchlings, and-”

“Swatchlings?” You chuckled, only to be hit with an intense pain in your ribs. “Agh, shit…” You laid back down. He practically jumped up. “Are you alright?!”

You nodded. “Yeah, I just forgot…” You gave a small rub to your chest, settling down again. “I’m sorry,” He reached out a hand. “For making me laugh?” You gave a pained smile. “Don’t mind me.” adding a pat to his hand. “Tell me about the Swatchlings.”

He sat back down, leaning on the mattress. “Well, they’re also sort of - Butlers. They’re from Cyber City. Now they’re trying to out-do each other for who’s most helpful.” He couldn’t help but smile. “The Shadowguys found themselves a place at the café, with the other musical darkeners. The café is kind of, well, full of cats now.” He chuckled. You smiled back. “Sounds like a fun time out there.” You laid your head back. “I’ll take you out there when you’re able.” He placed his hand next to yours. These almost-touches were enough to make you a bit warm.

You looked up at him. “That’d be nice.”

-

You and the TV host would continue to chat and yap on until you two fell into a pleasant slumber. What felt like moments later, you woke up, sitting up slowly, hand holding the side of your chest as you scanned the room. Your son was still there. Tenna was there. You breathed a sigh of relief.

“Tenna,” You whispered, but noticed his screen was still dark as slept kneeling at the edge of the bed. “Tenna, hey,” You tried again. No difference. You let out a long sigh, bracing yourself and pushing off the pillow. The pain was sharp as it shot through your chest straight to your back. “Agh-” You bit your lip hard, leaning back on your arm. The way the mattress shook, woke the host up immediately. His screen lit up, flashing a bright light in the dim-lit room.

The young darkener made a small mumble, rubbing his eyes as he woke up slowly. Tenna, on the other hand, immediately sat up. “What!” He exclaimed, reaching out a hand to support your back. You looked up at him, eyes tired. “It’s nothing, I just tried to sit on my own.” You sighed. “You should’ve woke me up..!” He pressed, while helping you straighten up. “It’s nothing.” You repeated, placing a hand on his as you sat up straight.

You looked at him for a moment, where his eyes should be. “You should wake me up for these kinds of things.” He spoke again, in a softer tone.

“You deserve proper sleep too, after what we’ve been through.”

His lips pressed into a firm line, and he leaned in a little, as if he was thinking it through. “I’ll put sleep first when I know you’re not in pain anymore.” He spoke firmly, as if he’s made up his mind. You were about to argue, but then you felt a pair of small hands on your leg. “Awh, hey buddy.” You smiled, reaching out a hand to fix your boy’s messy hair. He climbed onto your lap, still sleepy and cranky.

“Careful,” Tenna muttered, still supporting your back as he propped your pillow up against the wall. He helped lean you back slowly and carefully as your son climbed onto your chest and clung onto you. You smiled, hugging back and rubbing the back of his head soothingly. Tenna sat down again, a bit more relaxed now, watching the sweet exchange between you and the young one.

He skimmed the room, before speaking up again. "Would you're me to get some food for you two?"

"Well," You glanced out the window. "I'd like a shower, in all honesty." He raised his eyebrows and made a small hum. "I'll make sure to ask the prince about it."

He stood up and stretched out his limbs, giving you a small peek at his stomach. You looked away, coughing from the saliva stuck in your airways, and the equally shocking feeling in your stomach. "Are you okay?" He quickly looked back down, ready to offer help. You nodded, waving your hand at him. "Just go ask the prince, please."

He gave a small smile, fixing himself up before stepping out of the room. You looked down at your boy, who gave you a cheeky smile. You tickled his side, revengeful. "Don't give me that look, mister."

-

Tenna made his way through the town, until he reached the castle. In the entryway area, he could see Shuttah taking pictures of Tasque, Maus and the other animal-like darkeners. He stopped by them with a friendly smile. "Morning to you all!"

“Ooh la la. We are doing the wildlife fashion shoot!” They gave a cheeky smile. “So adirable, so admorable!” They added, earning a squeak, meow or glitch from the models.

He gave a small laugh and continued walking past, waving back. "Well, you all have fun doing that!" He walked through the door, past the cauldron and up the stairs. He reached the blue door and listened. He heard voices inside, prompting him to knock on it, before he peered the door open. Inside, he saw the prince and two lighteners having tea and cake on a small table in the middle of a large room, which he guessed to be the two neighboring rooms, only now connected.

He smiled at the endearing scene before him, and bent down to enter the smaller room. "Look at that, my dearest star contestants are having a tea party together." He sat down on his butt and scooched closer to their table.

Susie put down her mug and shot him a grin. "Hey, Tenna." The prince followed, "Morning, Mr. Tenna!" And Kris gave a nod.

"Oh, do not let me interrupt your brunch, I came here with a question for the prince Ralsei," He turned to him. The goat smiled, awaiting the host's query.

"I don't know if you're all aware, but my dearest assistant woke up yesterday afternoon."

Ralsei's face lit up. "Really? I had no idea, I should check on-" Tenna held up a hand. "All is well, seems the damage has subsided, only now, understandably, they'd like to take a shower."

"Hmmmm." The prince nodded.

"So, is there any way..? You know." Tenna glanced back at the others. "Dude, are you two married or something?" Susie asked bluntly while Ralsei took his time thinking. "WHAT!" Tenna exclaimed, nearly hitting his head on the ceiling in surprise. Susie let out a big laugh. "Obviously he wants them to be." She teased, elbowing Kris, who snickered under their breath.

"NO, D-Don't even think it! We're strictly professionals, and I am a boss caring for his dearest employee." He rushed to explain. "Yeah, dearest." She teased again, adding a fart sound. Kris grinned a bit and snickered subtly.

“Hey, leave him alone, don’t tease him for loving someone!” Ralsei jumped in, and Tenna’s screen was flushed a deep pink by this point. Susie had lost her breath laughing, almost tipping the chair back as Ralsei defended Tenna. The TV buried his face in his hands, groaning at the prince’s encouraging speech.

“-And Mr. Tenna, I’m making sure your loved one has a place to clean up!” He exclaimed. The host looked up at him, a tired smile on his face. “I… I appreciate it.”

“Come on, Mr. Tenna!” Ralsei pulled him up, determined. He stood up, still hunched over in the small room as the prince led him out. Susie and Kris were still having a giggle fit inside. Back out in the hallway, Tenna followed after the goat, who was walking in quick strides.

-

After a long walk, the two reached one of the edges of Castle Town, and the large - but gentle waterfall caught Tenna’s attention. The drip and flow of water would be gentle enough to soothe your aches, and most importantly, not hurt your injured body. “People mostly come here during the day,” Ralsei gestured to the waterfall. “So your assistant can feel free to clean up here.” He smiled.

This earned an impressed nod from Tenna, before he looked down at the prince. “Thank you, Prince Ralsei.” He bowed his head. “If it’s not too much to ask, is there any place one can get fabrics or new clothes around here?”

He thought for a moment. “I can make new clothes, though I'd try the Addisons first. They’d sell you basically anything.” He suggested. Tenna thought it through. Addisons. Why did that sound so familiar? “Alright, thank you for everything, Prince Ralsei.” He smiled, and Ralsei did too, before rushing back to the castle.

-

That evening, after he put your son to sleep in his crib, he walked over to the bed where you lay. He sat down on the floor by the bed, checking to see if you’re- “I’m awake,” You muttered, sitting up a little.

“I have a surprise for you.” He smiled gently. “You know I hate surprises.” You glanced away, wondering what he could be planning. “Then, think of it as a special something. From me.” He tried to reassure. “Alright then.”

He stood up. “I’ll be back in a few hours, alright? Just get some rest for now.” He spoke calmly, offering a small smile before he left you to the privacy of your room. The atmosphere was quiet, and you could almost see little particles dancing through the air, some shiny, some dull.

Watching the parade of small light and shine in the dark room quickly lulled you to sleep, with your son sleeping at peace, parallel to you.

A man of his word, Tenna showed up late at night, gently knocking on the door before entering. You woke up to the sound of his gentle footsteps. “Tenna..?” You muttered. He paused. “Were you awake this whole time?” He asked in a flat, dreading voice. “No, no. I woke up now, relax.” You smiled sleepily. He sighed in relief. “I’m picking you up, okay?” He kneeled next to you, and after seeing your nod, he scooped you into his arms effortlessly.

Out of the TV building and out into town you were, with Tenna holding you securely. “Welcome to Castle Town, newest recruit.” He smiled, while you took in your surroundings, savoring the view of the many small buildings and lifeless, dim-lit paths. “I’ll give you a proper tour when you’re all better.” He whispered, and carried you all the way to the town’s edge.

The suspense was prominent as you could hear the gentle flow and drip of water. You glanced up at Tenna as he carried you, and when you finally turned the corner, you gazed out to see a beautiful rocky waterfall. Your lips parted, and you looked up at him again. “Did you really-”

“Get you a shower? Yes, I did.” He allowed the smallest bit of pride in his voice.

He set you down carefully on a flat rock and let you feel the water with your hand. The flow was cool and very calm as it hugged your fingers and coated the skin of your hand. He then kneeled down next to you, holding out one arm and using the other to cover his nonexistent eyes.

You turned to him with a look of wonder. There was no need for words at that moment. You leaned against his arm as you got yourself free of the clothing and bandages you’d been baring for the past week. Holding his hand, you let your legs sink into the chilling water. The sting was oh so thrilling as you sat down inside the water, sinking your body up until your collar, while water dripped on your head, soaking your hair from above.

You made a small hiss, but then your grip on his hand softened, adjusting to the cold, which only served to soothe your aching ribs and back.

This moment could be his last, and Tenna would die happy, holding you as silent support while you bathed and washed off weeks of stress and days of pain.

Truth was, the arm wasn’t covering any of his sight. The man was looking up and away, while pretending to hide his vision. Why he’d deny himself a look at the sight he so-desired?

That, only the heavens know.

Chapter Text

The morning after that wonderful wash, Tenna woke up in his own room in the castle. Today, he was going to get you and your son some clothes.

He smiled to himself, his feet swinging a little as he glanced around the room, mind flooded with memories of last night, when you held onto his hand, his arm, when your back brushed against him, your hair, your chest, all wet, and

He shook his head, sitting up that instant. No, no. Not thinking that way. Not right now, at least. He got out of bed and got his suit on. As he got the clothes on, he glanced at his arms and chest. His shine was gone. He still had indents in his metal body from the fight and the impact of falling the large distance. He even noticed some rust building up at his joints. Yikes. He’d return today with quite the haul.

He walked through the quaint town, passing through the buildings he’d grown familiar with and greeting a few darkeners before he made his way to an area where a few darkeners hung out. And there, standing near the stall at the far edge of the flat area were the sales people. The Addisons.

As he approached them, all four seemed to freak out and whisper among themselves. He was still a bit puzzled as to why he felt so odd seeing them, with their slicked back hair, and that pose... Walking up to the stall, he crouched down and greeted with a smile. “Good morning. You’re the Addisons?”

They exchanged looks before finally the pink one approached the stall and smiled back. “Morning, Mr. Tenna.” He knew his name? Strange, but not too strange. He WAS pretty famous. “What can I do for you?”

“Do you nice little Addisons have any clothes? Even just fabrics?” He asked politely, praying inside that they had what he needed. The pink one nodded and scurried to a little shack area, must be their stock. He brought back a few small pieces of clothing, and a roll of fabric. “For you,” He placed down the fabric with a loud thud.

“I’d like those clothes, too.” He smiled. The pink one looked like he was going to lose his mind. “F-For??” He pressed. Tenna looked a bit confused. “My assistant?” He answered while sliding a few dark dollars onto the booth.

“Of course! A-Anything else?” He smiled nervously. Tenna thought for a moment. “Do you guys sell any polish? For metal, like mine? And oil?” The pink one nodded, and pulled a tube of polish from the storage. “Here you go, and I hope you don’t mind me asking, but have you seen Spamton?” He slid the tube onto the booth.

Oh. Oh oh! OH. These were HIS little business buddies back in the day. How could he forget?! That pesky little business man, that little fucker who took everything from his heart and soul, that stupid face, that stupid goatee of his, that DUMB slicked-back silky-black hair. If he saw him again he swore he’d-

“You’re the last one who heard from him, so-” The salesman muttered. Tenna flicked the tube back at them, making it hit the storage before standing back up, and leaving the colorful men glancing at each other anxiously. Could he get a fucking break? Tenna walked away from the stall and out of that area in long, agitated strides.

Those little rats, worried about the dirtiest of them all, that good for nothing mailman. Screw him, screw them! He kicked the nearest brick wall, his heart beating quickly and his circuits heating up from how frustrated he felt.

He walked all the way back to the castle, clutching the small items of clothing in one hand, and the roll of fabric in the other, blocking out noise pollution from other darkeners all the way into the castle and to his room, before he shut the door and tossed it all aside. He slicked back his antennae and removed his worn out jacket, taking a seat on the floor with his back against the bed.

He didn’t need this reminder. No, no reminders of that god awful night. That phone ringing, the line hanging, the static. No reminders of him ripping the unsigned contract to shreds, knocking over the table, ink drying at the tip of the abandoned pen. NO reminders of the way his vision blurred as he ripped all of his posters off the walls, absolutely trashing that STUPID businessman’s ‘sacred’ dressing room.

The sound of the table hitting the door as Tenna rushed over to the mirror, kicking it and shattering it, knocking over anything in his way as employees tried to enter through the blocked door. “Mr. Tenna!” Muffled voices called from outside, but Tenna heard ringing in his ears, only the sound of the glass shattering and damn ringing.

-

Laying helplessly in you and your son’s room, you couldn’t help but worry about Tenna. As much as you tried not to - you were growing feelings for him. Dependency? Trauma bond? Whatever. All those labels made your head hurt from irrelevancy for they all meant the same thing.

You were weak.

You couldn’t be weak, you couldn’t show any more submission, not after last night’s embarrassing display. What the hell were you on, letting him help you WASH UP of all things?? Your cheeks burned from sheer shame as you thought back on the events of last night.

No more excuses. You’d- “Riri?” You heard a small voice from beside you. “Yeah baby?” You respond softly. “Food?” God. Your son’s little request stung in your chest. “Yeah, yeah I’ll get you some food, buddy.” You gritted your teeth, breathing in a sharp gasp as you sat up and stood up from the bed.

You headed for the door, looking back at him for a moment. “Stay here for a few moments, okay?” To which he nodded. Holding onto the wall, you struggled out of the TV building. Scanning the busy area, you were overwhelmed with darkeners of all kinds.

-

Averting his gaze from the floor and releasing a small huff through his ventilation, Tenna decided it’d be best to get his mind off things by heading to the café to get you guys some food. The walk was short to the familiar building, and when the sound of chatter and music met his system, a small smile rose to his lips.

He pushed the door open and waved to Swatch expectantly. Walking to the front counter, he greeted darkeners all around, sitting, eating or chatting. “Good morning, Mr. Tenna.” Swatch gave a nod. “Morning.” He gave a small sigh. “Everything alright?”

“Oh, yes. I suppose I've just been reflecting a bit this morning,” Tenna smiled politely. “The usual please, to go.” He added. “Coming right up.” The tidy man spoke and disappeared to the back.

Tenna tapped his fingers on the counter, basking in the calm atmosphere of the café, getting lost in thought until his colored-glasses friend returned with his order. “There it is,” The crinkle of wax-coated paper on the counter snapped Tenna from his pondering. He turned to Swatch with a smile. “Thank you.” He paid just the right amount and turned to leave.

“Good day, Tenna.” Swatch waved goodbye. The host waved back and walked to the direction of the TV building.

-

You scanned the shops and benches before spotting the lighteners and prince Ralsei. Waving at them, you hoped to catch the teens’ attention, as calling for them would probably hurt like getting stabbed.

Ralsei saw you and approached with a concerned smile. “Hey there, should you be up yet?” He asked gently, and Susie gave you a stern nod while Kris watched. “I,” You stammered. “I just need you to watch my kid for a few minutes. He’s in the room.”

“Okay, b-but-” The prince began, before Susie silenced his worries with a firm pat on the shoulder. “They’ll be fine. I dig the independence.” She smiled. The prince sighed in defeat, and they walked into the TV building while you dragged yourself toward the building with the large sign reading ‘Café’.

-

Tenna practically tip-toed through the hallway and entered the room quietly with a smile, which faltered when he saw your bed empty.

He didn’t even notice the presence in the room until he scanned the rest of it, and saw the three teens sitting on the floor with the little battery boy, amusing him with his two toy-cars. Noticing Tenna, they all glanced at each other.

“Yo.” Susie muttered. Kris waved. “Where-”

“Your assistant wanted to be independent.” Ralsei quickly explained. “And?” Tenna stepped inside, fist tightening around the paper bags. “We… Let them.” Ralsei averted his gaze.

“Healing from a broken rib?!” Tenna brought a hand up to his screen, rubbing the bridge of his nose. “I can’t believe this day.” He groaned, before focusing on them again. “Where’d they go??” He demanded.

“Tenna, man, we can’t tattle-” Susie began. “You CAN, and you WILL.” He stood over them, body tense. “FINE, DUDE!” Susie threw her hands up. “The café!”

Tenna slicked back his antennae in order to not explode before he turned his heel and stormed out.

-

Pushing the door open, feet bare and bandages tight under your shirt, you gave a small look around the room before walking directly to the front counter.

The man working the counter was neat and pristine, in a suit and colorful glasses. “Good morning, how can I,” He paused for a moment, realizing who you were. He collected himself, staying professional. “Ehm, excuse me. How can I help?”

You glanced up at him before digging a few points bills from inside your shirt, placing them on the counter. “What can I get with this?” You asked, strain present in your voice. He gave a polite smile. “I am familiar with the ‘points’ currency, but here, we use ‘dark dollars’.” He explained gently. You squinted at him, pain taking up most of your ability to think or operate.

Just then, by miracle, Tenna walked through the door, paper bags still clutched in one hand, scanning the room until his gaze landed on you.

He rushed over, placing his hand over yours without even thinking. “Wha..” You turned and looked at him with a puzzled expression. “Shouldn’t you be resting?” He muttered through gritted teeth. “I can get my own food.” You stood your ground.

“No you can’t.” He gestured to the useless points on the counter. Looking around, you made sure there was minimal attention on you two before pulling your hand away. “What do you want?”

He looked surprised at that. “What do I want? Seriously?” He raised his voice, before noticing Swatch looking away from you two. He sighed and got the bills off the counter, shoving them in his breast pocket. “My apologies, Swatch.” He nodded and took you by the hand, practically dragging you out like some kid.

Though embarrassed, you followed. He took you out to the side of the building, still not letting go of your hand. You looked up at him, “Was that your little-”

“Hush.” He cut you off. “What the hell is your problem?” His nonexistent gaze piercing into yours. “Don’t you want to heal? You have a kid to take care of!”

You pulled your hand away to no avail, with his remaining locked on your wrist. “Why is it all of a sudden you care about me ‘resting’ so much? Just however-long ago I was running around your building from room to room, balancing everything on my shoulders.”

“You need rest. Quit trying to be so independent and think about the consequences of your actions.” The host snapped back. “‘Quit being so independent’? Oh, double-standard much?” You stepped up to him. “I did everything around that studio with no help, especially not from the great ‘Mr. Ant Tenna’.”

“You never once directly asked for my help.” He defended. “And who’s fault is that? Who’s responsibility was it to, hell, not even help me, but REMIND me to lay off the extra work for a moment?” You dared point a finger at him.

“You were doing way more than the requirements for your position, do not point your pretty little finger at me.” He tilted his head, almost mockingly. “Because I cared about your show! I cared about that studio!” You insisted.

“My extra efforts kept your show running.”

“Did your extra efforts keep the fridge full?”

Your eyes widened. You stammered, practically speechless. “Y-You can’t claim to have cared and then use that against me.”

“I do care. I just needed you to shut up.” He pulled you closer by the wrist. “Now listen. You’re physically hurt, and I need you to let me help you. With your son. With food.” He spoke in a quiet, almost condescending tone.

You shook your head. “Missed your chance by a mile, buddy.” You pulled your hand away the second he loosened his grip, and started walking off, only to be pulled right back. You hissed from the pain in your ribs, but Tenna was blinded at that moment.

“This isn’t right. You can’t do this to me after everything I've done for you.” He raised his voice the slightest bit, becoming desperate. “What did you do? Burn me out and try to make up for it? The only reason I’m even hurt is because I stayed with you through battle!” You barked back.

“You’re not being fair. You’re doing this on purpose.” He held you by the arm, grip tightening more. “You’re not my employer anymore. We owe each other nothing.” You bit through the pain. “Did last night mean nothing to you?” He called in desperation.

You looked away bitterly. “It meant as much to me as it did to you.”

“It meant everything to me.” Were the unexpected words that left his mouth next. You glanced back at the host, who knelt in front of you. “I had so many terrible memories today… Of my horrible past. My mistakes.” He looked up at you, defeated.

“I can’t lose you too. Hear me out.”

You glanced around. “Please give me time.”

His lips trembled. “Promise me you won’t cut me off.”

Hesitating, you nodded. “Promise.”

As Tenna watched you walk off to the TV building, trembling, he ran a hand over his face, praying to anyone up there - to please bring you back to him. Not like his dear old Spammy.