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“If you saw what I saw; felt what I felt… Maybe then you could try to understand.”
Nine stood in front of Tails. As Tails took a step forward, Nine took one back.
“Understand what it's like to want to change yourself but know it's impossible. Wish you could be as simple as the machines you build.”
Nine never thought he would actually meet, much less interact with, Tails. His ears flattened slightly as he felt anger—no, it was jealousy, as a deep sadness accompanied it—bubble up to the surface.
“I know what it is like to feel—”
“No you don't!” Tails stared at Nine who looked like he would start crying any second. “You will never understand what it is like to be me. Knowing there is no way to change yourself to be like the norm. A puzzle piece in the wrong box.”
“Then let me try!”
“What…?” Nine took a step back, as if the unexpected response could hurt him.
“If you think I’m unaware, let me try to learn!” Tails looked determined. Nine wanted to be more angry. He wanted to say he was being pitied or patronized, but Tails seemed…genuine. It didn't make sense. Why would he care?
“You don't know what it was like living in New Yoke. A city ran by the Chaos Council.” Nine started to question what he was doing. Why was he explaining it to him?
Tails' expression saddened. Nine hoped it meant Tails would back off, leave him alone.
“I remember when Eggman took over my world. It only lasted about 6 months. I can only imagine living like that for years.”
Nine was a bit surprised by what Tails said. It was more comparable to his situation than what he had expected. He kept quiet as he let Tails continue.
“I wish you could have had the compassion, the chances, that I got.”
“But I didn't. I won't. It was foolish to ever hope for some sort of savior.”
“No, it wasn't! Please, just hear me out.” Tails tried to look Nine in the eyes, but Nine just looked down.
“You guys are just full of cliques. What's next? You want me to ‘walk a mile in your shoes’? See your perspective?”
“No… I want to lend you my life. I've had plenty of joy. You deserve some too.”
That made Nine angry. He was sure Tails was lying now. How else could he say such stupid remarks?
“Stop it!” Nine yelled out as he started to feel himself tremble. It must be a trick. He must be leaving something out. Maybe Tails tricked himself. Maybe he thinks it's true when it isn't. “You don't get it! You don't care! You're trying to trick me!”
“I’m not. I try to change the world—make it a better place. I still hear them talk behind my back, but that doesn't matter.”
“You sound as stupid as he does. Just leave. Go back to your blissful ignorance.” Nine took another step back, but Tails matched it with a step forward.
“It's true that Sonic doesn't always get it, but he tries. Even if he doesn't know the exact pain you're feeling, he tries to fix it.”
“Just leave…” Why was he so persistent? It didn't make sense to Nine why Tails was trying so hard.
As Nine tried to back away, he lost his footing and fell over. He started giving an awkward laugh before tears started pouring down his face.
Tails slowly walked up to Nine, stopping about a yard away.
Why is he staring?
Tails sat down in front of Nine as he failed to stop the tears pouring out.
He just wants to watch me suffer.
Tails pulled out a peppermint and silently slid it over to Nine.