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The sound of healing bottles hitting each other filled the healer’s room. The doctor's desk being filled with all types of medical stuff. Right in the middle of it stood his simple but useful basket. Caretaker had everything planned out, so now all he needed to do was put it to action. He wrapped each healing bottle in a towel, alongside packing some extra towels. Leaving a tightly packed basket was left in the end.
“I think that should be all.. The last thing to do is let them know I'll be heading out..” Caretaker whispered to himself, looking around with a thoughtful expression. Surely he had everything, he wouldn't have to make a sudden turn just to go back. He was dressed properly. He had his strong black gloves, his usual medical lab coat, and his basket was prepared. Maybe it was just the fear of leaving the bunker once more after all …Without any more thoughts, Caretaker took hold of his basket, opened his door, and headed right to the theater area. Walking at a fast pace, he didn't want to waste precious time in his hands.
Once he was entering the area, the sound of civilians talking and laughing entered the atmosphere. Many of them were simply having snacks with others, taking in the time for their late night break. His eyes wandered around the room, looking for either the magenta or brown cowboy hat among the crowd. Loveshot and Revolver were his top people to let know that he was heading out, almost as if they were also in charge of making sure Caretaker was still in one full piece and alive. Luckily for the doctor, one of them had already found him, before he could find her.
“Caretaker!” Loveshot’s voice came from behind him, her arms wrapping around his shoulders. Obviously, the sudden touch of his friend shocked him. He tensed his body with the speed of light, a shocked expression being mustered on his face. “Heh, what? It’s only me, I’m not gonna kill you.” Loveshot responded with a cheeky smile, trying to act oblivious to her actions. “Ugh, I know, I know.. you just always find the perfect time to scare the soul out of me.” Caretaker replied back quickly, a sigh of relief coming from him. Even if he almost shat himself, he still went to turn around and give back a proper hug. Resting his head on her shoulders as he returned the tight embrace back. She was the one who Caretaker held so much trust and care for. He had a deep platonic love for her. An iconic and inseparable duo.
“Judging by your outfit and bag, you are heading out? Already?” Loveshot said as she separated from the embrace, now skimming through Caretaker's frame. “Yes, of course. I have to get the job done now or never.” Caretaker nodded in response, a wave of embarrassment washing over him, just at realizing how stupid he sounds. “And it's not just about.. you know… I checked our supply yesterday, and we could still use more herbs for our potions.” He added on quickly, trying to keep a calm posture. The sheriff in front of him only sighed, shaking her head at the response. “Day by day, I get more worried. You've visited him dozens of times in the same week! I swear, you and that machine are something else..” Loveshot huffed out, crossing her arms. She wasn't totally wrong. The more Caretaker was heading out, the more he reeked of oil and metal. Which was bringing more, and more civilians to grow suspicion. “Pshh-not true!! Just because we have a few–”
“What are we talking about here?”
The familiar voice of the other sheriff startled both of the medics. They stood still in their tracks, conversation was shut off, and fear rose. “Cmon, no way, Caretaker will be heading out again..?” Revolver grumbled as he fixed his hat, his fingers rubbing the sides. “Hey Revolver.. I see you're already finished with Block and Dash's shambles?” Caretaker started first, trying to avert the conversation elsewhere. “Oh, don't play dumb with me doctor,” “Alright, alright. Let's not start this conversation again.” Loveshot followed right behind Revolver's statement. She would make sure not to have another argument. “WE, as in the medics, also need a bit more restock. We just talked about it right now. Caretaker will get all the more herbs and supplies he needs for our healing potions, and he will be back… right, Caretaker?” Loveshot's head slowly turned as she finished her sentence, obviously wanting him to play along as well. While there was no need to, Caretaker knew the plan from the beginning. “Yes.! For real this time, me and Esterflower will get everything down once I am back…and I'll promise not to go out until needed next time.” He lowered his voice at the end. He wasn’t actually sure he meant those words. The nervousness was the one in control right now, anything that seemed right to say: it would be said.
The conversation between the three finally stood silent. Revolver only looked at both Caretaker and Loveshot. His expression was thoughtful. Deep down, he knew sort of what was going on, all with that stupid, red tomato looking ass Chat GPT clanker. For being a strong, humble leader, he was in strong denial about it. “I’m sure you probably cleared all the herbs from last time. Are we sure there is still more for us?” Revolver huffed out, using any excuse to bring down the two at this point. “The more, the merrier. Plus, after today’s round, my arms are tired from all those swings. It also serves as a way to rest, you know?” The doctor shot back firmly, confident in his excuse.
With a heavy sigh, he brought his hand to Caretaker's shoulder. “Just be quick with it. Don't be gone for all of midnight.” Caretaker's smile widened at hearing Revolver's approval. He would make sure not to fumble this opportunity. “I can promise you that, chief! You two are the best.” Caretaker turned to both of the sheriffs in front of him, both sharing a smug smirk. “Yeah, yeah.. you should get going. Don't want it to already become midnight!” Loveshot nudged, winking right at the healer. To which Caretaker only nodded with a grin, immediately heading out towards the exit.
-
Caretaker opened the small emergency door at the end of the hallway, having to crouch down to make sure nothing was left behind. Squeezing himself out, followed by his basket. He would have to make haste, making sure to be there on time at least. He got up and ran, sprinting at his best pace. The location wasn't as far as the others. The large, and only church near the bunker. Or at least what the civilians called: “Grandma's backyard.” All just from a stupid inside joke Taunt started, which soon became the proper name for it. Whatever anyone wanted to call it, he needed to make sure he got there quickly.
-
The church stood still in utter tranquility. The sound of the wind gushing echoed through the temple. There, alone, stood the killing machine: Killdroid. A big red pole, standing in a sacred abandoned place. He clearly didn't belong there, but yet would be there to shoo him away? This place was only meant for two certain groups. Even so, he was waiting patiently. Leaned up against the wall, facing the scenery out the doorway. It was a nice break from the rest of the noise, all the noise from his resting place with their ‘killing companions.’ The machine can tolerate lots of sounds, but yet constant bickering and unnecessary sound drew the line at some point.
Even with the peaceful scenery and calm atmosphere. Killdroid only stood there, stiff and without making a sound. He had no other thing to do than to wait for the healer to arrive. It was ready for the meeting this time, though. Today might be a special day, all according to their calculated guess. Two special gifts. All for the one civilian that he had made a bond with. Don't get them wrong, these meet ups have been happening for a while now. This would be their 21st meeting by now. All of this wasn't anything new or out of the blue. The only thing that could've changed was the meaning behind these meetings.
Until any more thought was brought up in Killdroid's system: the sound of grass rustling caught their attention. It had been waiting here for a while now, and mother nature was the only form of sound. So a sudden rustle of grass wasn't normal. Even if the most logical thought was that the Caretaker was finally here, he refused to let his guard down. Their robotic hand made its way to his rocket, now on alert as they looked around. His head looked from both entrances of the church. Its sensors are now active and running. An ambush attack could happen anywhere at any time.
Before Killdroid could even think of an attack, the familiar voice of the medic was heard from the entrance. “Killdroid?” The doctor called out, his eyes immediately darting to the robot in the room. As soon as the voice was heard, Killdroid looked back, relief entering his state. “[CARETAKER.]” The healer immediately smiled, running up to the government machine and embracing it. Killdroid stood still for a moment, processing the action happening. The two haven't actually really embraced like this before. Things were usually so blunt. Despite the sort of new contact, Killdroid knew better than to reject. He laid his hands on the medic's back, trying to offer the same contact. “Gosh, I am so glad to see you in one piece.” Caretaker chimed, backing away from the hug. Instead, he made his way to a nearby corner. Sitting down on the cold, concrete floor: all away from the broken benches and colorful glass. To which Killdroid followed, sitting next to Caretaker at a reasonable distance.
“You see, Revolver almost didn't even let me go today. His suspicion grows each day, but my dear Loveshot has my back. So, it leads to the announcement that we won't see each other for a big while. Maybe next week I'll be lucky. So oh noooo save your tears…” Caretaker rambled on as he unpacked his basket, revealing five healing bottles, alongside the overwhelming amount of bathroom towels. Killdroid stood there, staring at each movement Caretaker did, occasionally darting his vision to the doctor's face. Seeing him open a healing potion: they knew what would happen next. It was another one of their daily things. “That's just one part of the things that happened today. Every day, there are always some stupid events going on.” Caretaker sighed, damping the towel in the magical healing potion. “Now come a little closer. You don't seem to have too many dents today.” Caretaker squinted his eyes, taking note of any differences. Killdroid quickly got closer, lowering his head in a good position. The caretaker then continued the procedure. Running the wet towel all over Killdroid's face. The starting dents and scratches once visible: now gone. The vibrant red returned back. The machine kept still, letting both Caretaker and the potion do their jobs.
The towel, now with a new whiff of liquid, traveled further: now cleaning up his neck and chest. Making it seem like a brand new metal. “I guess maybe today we didn't go so tough, huh?” Caretaker broke the silence, still keeping focus on cleaning the machine. [NEGATIVE: DAMAGE WAS HIGH THREATING.] Killdroid added back, moving his body as the healer continued. “Block seemed tired today. He wasn’t too hyped to be punching metal like yours.” Caretaker giggled softly, rolling up his sleeves even more, revealing more of the bandages. Killdroid only nodded back. Noting how this cleaning was close to being done. “[QUESTION: IS REVOLVER'S APPROVAL THAT IMPORTANT?]” Caretaker stopped in his tracks, taking in the question. Making him only shake his head. “Already asking the deep questions, huh?” “[YOU DON'T HAVE TO ANSWER, COMPANION.]” That stupid nickname.. Caretaker always cringed each time it was said. Even so, he still let his tongue roll out. Not answering one of his ‘companion's’ answers made him guilty. “It’s not that he's possessive over me. He just worries. He worries for all of the civilians. Being a leader for most of us isn't easy. He cares for me, protects me. I just return the favor. He attacks while I attend.”
“[UNDERSTANDING. SURPRISE HEARING HOW MUCH EVERYONE RESPECTS HIM.] “Oh please, is it so hard to hear good things about your greatest opponent?” Caretaker snickered, noticing how Killdroid turned his head. Talking with Killdroid was always so direct, blunt. But maybe the raw, genuine emotion Caretaker felt: it was doable. He quickly learned how to answer truthfully, using just as many words as possible. Always trying to force the human-like responses from the government machine. At least knowing the doctor could tell it anything, all without having to worry about being judged: was more than enough for him.
“Alright, compadre. You're fine. Once you drown yourself with a full bottle of this, you'll be all good for tomorrow.” Caretaker pulled back the towel, the pearly white now stained with a dark oil-like smug. Killdroid almost gave out a groan, circling his arms: feeling the difference. “[SYSTEM RUNNING SMOOTHER: THANK YOU, DOCTOR.]” The healer nodded, a soft smile painted on his cheeks as he cleaned up. Putting the towels back in the basket. Then going to offer the usual four healing potions every meeting. Caretaker held them out, two in each hand, nudging them forward to Killdroid. It quickly saw the motion, taking them and setting them right next to them. “[CARETAKER. I HAVE A GIFT TO OFFER TO YOU.]” Killdroid turned completely to Caretaker, who stood still in what seemed confused. “A gift? Really?” He said, disbelief dripping on each word. Could a robot like Killdroid really think of Caretaker long enough for him to get a gift? “[AFFIRMATIVE: LET ME SHOW YOU.]” Killdroid nodded too many times to count. He seemed rather eager about this, something Caretaker rarely noticed in their behavior. Yet, he held his breath, paying close attention to Killdroid.
Killdroid's hand went up to his chest area, pressing a button allowing the case to open. The red metal even shines on this cloudy day. Proceeding through, they took their hand inside, revealing a rather large, soft yellow pouch. All while using its other to close it back up. Caretaker sat there, eyes wide and curious. Whatever was in the pouch was certainly important. “[ACKNOWLEDGE I DID MY BEST.]” Killdroid stated, now offering the pouch to the healer. He was hesitant, but his trust for the robot had already reached the right level. Caretaker took it from its hand, cupping it with both of his. He didn't want to tease his reaction or anything, but he was genuinely curious about the gift. In a swift move, Caretaker pulled the string holding the top: letting it slouch on his palm. Finally, he got to peek inside and see what was awaiting him behind the cloth. As soon as Caretaker's saw what was inside, his eyes grew wider than before. Herbs.. no, no, THE herbs. The pouch was filled with the healing herbs. A magical plant, usually so hard to obtain. “[I ACKNOWLEDGED THE LACK OF THESE HERBS. SO I GOT THEM FOR YOU. TRUSTED CIVILIAN: WORK-FREE FOR NOW.]” Killdroid started, noticing how Caretaker sat there in disbelief.
“Oh, Killdroid.. no, this is perfect!! This is so thoughtful… Thank you!!!” Caretaker rushed to hug Killdroid, throwing himself on the hard metal: burying his face into his chest. Once again, Killdroid stood still, arms stiffly in place. Even Killdroid himself didn't know why. Their rare hugs weren't so abnormal, but yet, something always brought him to stop at a point. The machine felt happiness, something that would be considered joyful in his system. They wanted to show it, not be stiff, and wait until they could place a hand on his healer. It brought one of their hands to the doctor's back, while the other held Caretaker's forearm gently, making sure to not harm or mess up the bandages. Both of them sat locked in touch, keeping their positions intact.
-
They laid together like this for quite some time, no less than 30 minutes, but over 10 minutes. The concern of time flew past Caretaker's head. He was simply too busy cuddling with a killing machine built by the government. Oh sure, perfect excuse to tell Revolver this time… Caretaker's bliss was oblivious. Killdroid could feel the healer’s heartbeat, once a fast pace, now to a soft beat of relaxation. Yet, the time and relaxation of Caretaker wasn't the thing bothering Killdroid. The machine felt itself get.. nervous? They were beginning to overheat with each heartbeat felt. All to the point his fans started slowly, which to Caretaker was a bedtime lullaby. Killdroid was feeling strange. Things they haven't ever felt. Ever since it shared a gaze with the doctor: something was off. Its usual stern, frightening demeanor was wearing off. All because a civilian, a sworn enemy, was laid up next to them.
Despite not wanting to wake his fellow buddy, Killdroid refused to overheat further. They moved it's hand: still laying on Caretaker's forearm and shook it hard. Even going as far to pat his back, an extra signal to wake up. Luckily, Caretaker hadn't yet reached his deep, heavy sleep section yet, so the movement made his eyes open easily. “Huh.? What happened now..?” Caretaker croaked out, his voice now a tad deeper than before. “[TEMPERATURE REGULATION REQUIRED. HUG WAS… PROLONGED.] Killdroid could feel the healer’s eyes on him, yet they refused to look back. Was this ‘embarrassment’? Embarrassment wasn't a thing ever in its system. He wasn’t programmed to feel such a useless human emotion. Yet the way the robot was acting were clear signs of this.
Caretaker began rubbing his left eye, finally understanding what the cause of the disturbance was for. “Oh shoot, I'm sorry, dude. I just haven't had the best sleeping schedule lately.” He yawned as he backed away but made sure their thighs touched. “Almost every day, someone is still injured from the aftermath of the rounds. And you already know it's always me attending them. Can't really catch a break while you're the most important healer on the team, you know.?” Caretaker gave a deep sigh, sliding back his black hair in his nurse hat. Though Killdroid sat silent for a few seconds, their fans were still running at a slow pace. It thought about what the healer told him. It was true, Caretaker would always complain about these things to them. None of it was new, but it always managed to keep Killdroid thinking about it. “[EMBRACE STILL ACCEPTABLE. MAY BE USED AS A RESTING OBJECT.]” Hearing those words brought a sweet smile on Caretaker. A warm red flushing on the sides of his cheeks.
He let his head rest on one of Killdroid's rockets. Feeling the contrast of his warm cheek to the cold metal. He wrapped his arm around Killdroid's, his other hand almost tangling in with the robot's. Killdroid let himself be cuddled with, making their body lose, almost giving in. Its fans kept swirling, the only thing keeping the church noisy. The way the healer and robot were snuggled up with another almost seemed like a rebellion against their roles. The sight of a killing machine letting their guard down was certainly a jaw-dropping view. At least for the doctor, his role, the basket, and the bunker were nonexistent things in this current moment. For now, he could be a free civilian, free of work, and most importantly, spend time with his favorite robot.
“Don't you sometimes ever feel tired?” Caretaker spoke up first, breaking the semi-silent atmosphere. Killdroid rotated its head slightly, just a tad bit away from Caretaker before answering. “[NEGATIVE. SOLAR PANELS ALWAYS ON ALERT.]” Killdroid's response was brief and dry. Making Caretaker frown in the process. He wanted to keep a conversation going. A conversation where both him and Killdroid were speaking. He nuzzled more into Killdroid as he let his mind run, thinking of what else to say. “Mhm. Have you ever shut down on accident, though?” He asked quickly, the first question he could think of on the top of his mind. “[ONCE. WATER WAS HARSHER ON TEAPOT PARADISE. SYSTEM WARNED TO STOP. YET, I REFUSED..]” This time, the response given felt more emotional than the last. Embarrassment dripped from their words. Ashamed of having to confess that. So, in Caretaker's book, this was a jackpot. “Really? How did THAT end?” Caretaker continued forth, wanting to squeeze out the sudden topic.
“[SYSTEM SHUT DOWN. BUT A WARNING SIGNAL WAS CAST OUT. BADWADE WAS LUCKILY ENOUGH TO GET IT IN TIME. I REMAINED IN ONE PIECE. REMAINING CIVILIANS RAN.]” Killdroid's head titled down, recalling the memory. He heated up just a bit, their system running faster. Though, Caretaker laughed under his breath. He could imagine it in his head perfectly. Killdroid, shooting his rockets as the rain poured heavy on them. While his team curved back to the walled off area. Yet just as Killdroid was gonna aim, it just stopped in place, falling face first in the concrete. Imagining the faces on his fellow teammates would've been hilarious. Truly a disappointment, he wasn’t there.
“[SENSORS DETECT LAUGHTER: ARE YOU MOCKING ME?]” Killdroid finally turned their head fully at Caretaker. Caretaker's smirk immediately dropped down, as his eyes were greeted by the big X on Killdroid's face. “Okay, okay.. It's not so serious… it's just funny to think about! The way you probably laid on the floor and also the look on my teammates,” Caretaker shrugged, offering a crooked smile as Killdroid's face was still facing him. “You know, and maybe I should've been there to help you get back on your feet.” Caretaker's hand reached out, intertwining his fingers with Killdroid's. His tan hands and black gloves are a great contrast to Killdroid's metal gloves and red fingers. The rather embarrassing but romantic action made Killdroid's head rotate once more. “[I-I SUPPOSE.]” Killdroid's voice glitched out.. As soon as the slight tone glitched out, Caretaker could feel his mouth slightly agape. The only time Caretaker recalled a glitchy voice was when he tried to fix a wire on it for the first time. Ever since then, a glitch was never heard of again.
Caretaker could only hope it was because of his behavior: the amount of touching and sweet words. He knew deep down he didn't have enough time for a check-up. Even though he wanted to stay in the church, continue to tease Killdroid, and maybe even sleep in their arms.. he always knew better than to follow orders instead of his desires. As Killdroid refused eye contact, Caretaker's eyes instead lingered on the entrance. Noticing how the original dark sky blue was now painted a soft black. His hands began to sweat, imagining just what time it could possibly be.. and don't even mention Revolver's speech afterwards..!! With a deep breath, he let go of Killdroid completely. Now, moving his hands towards his basket. Killdroid immediately felt the difference, the difference of the weight and warmth. Its head rotating faster than light as it heard the rustling of the towels. “[CIVILIAN IN A RUSH: WHAT IS THE MATTER?]”
“I need to get back to base.. the sky is warning me to go back,” Caretaker breathed out, moving quickly as he spoke. His hand folded the towels perfectly, placing them back in the basket neatly. Making sure everything he needed was in the basket as he looked around. “[CALCULATING… MIDNIGHT WILL NOT START UNTIL 20 MINUTES HAVE PASSED.]” Killdroid's voice went quiet. Their statement almost seemed like a plea for Caretaker, moving closer to the doctor as he packed up. “That's too little.. I am planning to be on good terms with Revolver this week. Try to make him a little prouder, you know?” Caretaker spoke out, a small grin tugging at the side of his mouth. He was indeed speaking the truth. Just maybe if he obeyed enough for the next few days, he'll grow the trust and ease the suspicion. Despite the genuine tone of Caretaker's voice, a part of Killdroid wished it wasn't true. The rivalry with that stupid, chopped, chud, loser, not even good sheriff, Revolver was bad enough, adding on their.. companion…on the line was even worse! Killdroid was lowkey fuming right now. Even if it was ignoring ‘eye' contact for some good minutes, they were still enjoying the banter for the past minutes.
“Oh I know, I know.. you hate to see me leave.. Worry not, though. I'm sure you and your team will be good enough with the healing potions you got. If not, I can sneak some extras during rounds.” Caretaker said in a mocking tone, now clearly poking fun at the robot. Yet, at least Caretaker didn't know that maybe somewhere in Killdroid's system: it was actually hoping he would stay. Though Caretaker continued to move fast, finally taking the gifted pouch in his hands. Holding for just a minute too long before letting it land softly on top of all the towels.
With a swift movement, Caretaker was on his feet. Basket in hand and cracking his knuckles. “Not a long meet-up, but these fists also gotta rest. Knocking out your ‘friends’ with my punches isn't always easy.” Caretaker laughed to himself. He seemed more awake, ready to run back to his sweet home. Killdroid slowly stood up as Caretaker spoke. Standing right in front of the healer, with an awkward silence. Caretaker just stared back with the same crooked smile as before. Killdroid's fans whirled louder now. Standing still in place without making a single sound. He was in deep thought, and Caretaker noticed this. Yet he was rushing himself. He didn't have enough time to wait for it. He needed to get his legs walking now!! “Listen, Killdroid. I really need to go, I will see you soon, okay? Have a good night, friend.”
“[WAIT.]”
Before Caretaker could even turn around, he felt his arm be stopped by a force, a force he knew came from the robot. He turned his head back, a rather disappointed expression greeting Killdroid. “Killdroid.. you know I am in a rush…” Caretaker whispered. Even though he was upset, he turned his body back at Killdroid, their hand not letting go of his wrist. “[DOCTOR. LET ME OFFER YOU MY LAST GIFT BEFORE YOUR DEPARTURE. SPARE ME A FEW MINUTES.. I BEG.]” Both of Killdroid's hands went to hold Caretaker's single hand. Its fingers tracing the patterns on his tight bandages. Caretaker's breath hitched, his hand slightly twitched, the wounds under feeling the warmth of the metal. “I.. suppose…” He nodded, a heavy sigh accompanied by it. He was an easy man, especially when it came to this certain red robot.
Killdroid felt... relieved. His sphere face nodded in response. Their hand let go of Caretaker and made their way into its metal utility belt. Their moves were overwhelmingly smooth as it opened a pocket on his left. Then finally taking the item in their hand, taking both of their hands to cup the gift, offering it towards the healer. As soon as Caretaker looked towards the object cupped in the robot's hand, he could feel his eyes open wide. It was a brooch.. not just any ordinary brooch. This brooch was shaped almost exactly like his medical cross necklace. His bright green cross necklace, the one thing that summed up his purpose. Caretaker's jaw opened once more, now taking the cross brooch in his hands. Admiring it under the faint light that was still left. The way the metal was curved perfectly and what seemed like emeralds pieced together tight. A diamond shaped green crystal right in the center, as smaller ones covered the rest of the cross. “Killdroid.. just.. Just how do you get this?” Caretaker breathed out, his eyes still engrossed on the brooch. “[I HAVE MY WAYS. THE GREEN SHARDS ARE FROM THESE BROKEN WINDOWS. I USED EVERYDAY THINGS.]” Killdroid pointed to the broken glass. Of course. The way this glass would always shatter, but always be in one piece the next day.
Caretaker could feel his heart pounding in his chest. This brooch meant something beyond to him. The thought of the machine in front of him, actually thinking of a gift this thoughtful, was extraordinary. “[SENSORS DETECT: INCREASED HEART RATE, PUPILS DILATED. ASSUMING GIFT WAS SUCCESSFUL?]” Caretaker chuckled softly, finding Killdroid's statement weirdly endearing. “Of course I do! Just how could I not!?” Laughter and fans running filled the church. Caretaker was now filled with a new happiness in his heart. He felt his cheeks flush more, and his heart continued the hard thumbing. “[YOU HAVE BEEN SUCH A GREAT HELP TO ME AND EVERYONE ELSE.. THIS IS JUST A SMALL TOKEN OF MY GRATITUDE,]” Killdroid's voice grew softer, taking but just a small step towards him. “[ALSO, I ALWAYS HAVE TO MAKE SURE TO KEEP TRUSTED CIVILIAN PLEASED. IT’S A PRIORITY,]” Caretaker just rolled his eyes, getting how they were trying to poke fun at him. But the brooch was now placed in his basket. Put away for no one else to see. “I won't wear it yet.. give me a few days, and you'll see me rocking that beauty soon.” Caretaker grinned, taking a rather large step forward as well.
Making them go face to face, so close that their arms brushed up against one another's. Killdroid tensed up, standing stiff once more as it noticed the sudden closeness. Yet it didn't back away or request any space. “You are truly too sweet for me, Killdroid.. thank you.” With that, Caretaker leaned in, two hands gently holding Killdroid's head. Then, letting his lips touch the left side of the robot, placing a kiss that definitely lasted one or two minutes way too long. The action quickly made Killdroid overheat, his fans running faster, and his body heating up even more. “Take that as my second thank you. I'll see you soon..” Caretaker whispered as he backed away. Then, he offered a wink as he ran out finally, the sounds of his boots slowly fading away, leaving the robot overheating in place.
-
The wind was cold on Caretaker's cheeks, cooling him down from the experience that just happened. He knew that with each step being taken, he was getting closer to the emergency door. He thought hard during his run about what he would say.. he knew deep down he needed to seem tired, exhausted after a long trip of collecting herbs. He couldn't afford to look like a man who had been cuddled up with a robot for the past hour! Each branch broken under his step was a reminder that he would have to begin his act quickly.
As he finally approached the small emergency door, Caretaker slowed his pace, forcing his breathing to level out. He adjusted the basket on his arm, making sure the pouch of rare herbs was still laid on top of towels. He took a moment to smooth down his nurse hat and wipe a stray smudge of oil from his cheek. He had to look the part: the exhausted medic returning from a tedious trip. Only this way could he pull off his facade of being extremely tired.
He squeezed back through the narrow opening, and the metallic smell of the bunker rushed to meet him. He stood up and dusted off his brown pants, glancing down the hallway. The lights were now dim, and the usually crowded hallway was left empty, silent. Despite the atmosphere being quiet and lonely, he knew it was best to go back to the theater. Checking for Revolver was his main priority since leaving the church. Now it was finally time to reunite with him. The sound of boots stepping on the hard ground was the only thing heard across the hallway. It was best to be as quiet as possible, knowing how most civilians were most likely trying to catch a good night's sleep. Everyone had a long day ahead of them, so rest was always top priority for all.
Just as Caretaker took a small peek in the theater room, he already saw Revolver leaned up against the wall, arms crossed and hat titled over his face. Noticing by the still movements, he was already asleep. Yet it was in the same spot just as Caretaker left. Had he really not left from the spot, all just to wait for him? Caretaker shook his head as he approached the sleeping sheriff, his snoring softly being heard as the doctor got closer. Caretaker made sure to be gentle with waking him up. He gently tapped his shoulder, quickly causing Revolver to gasp. “H-huh!? What!?” Revolver stood straight, fixing his hat back on his head. Just as he laid eyes on the healer in front of him, his demeanor seemed to calm down with the click of a button. “Oh.. it’s just you, doctor.” Revolver sighed with relief, seeing it was just a civilian who was calming enough for the sheriff. “Yup, and with some minutes to spare as well.” Caretaker responded back, nudging at Revolver’s watch. Just as he noticed the gesture, he brought his arm to his face, actually checking the time. “Huh, I guess you did. Just by a few though.. Not close to an hour, hope you know that.” Revolver nodded, a sign of approval coming from his side.
“And check it out! The haul tonight was successful. I didn't disappoint this time.” Caretaker grinned as his hand reached back at the basket, now revealing the pouch of herbs inside. Revolver eyes widened, seeing just how it was filled to the brim. For once did Caretaker actually manage to impress Revolver, and actually prove him wrong from his ideas. Deep down Caretaker knew he had already achieved this, which caused a rumble of joy in his chest. “Well, well, well.. I suppose today was all in favor, huh? I am proud, let's keep it this way for now.” He let out a defeated sigh, a smile plastered on his face. Caretaker responded with an eager nod. Knowing he was free from a lecture, and would be running a smoother shift for the next few days to come. He closed up his basket, keeping the pouch and the brooch safe inside, and away from any other eyes. “Go to your room and rest. We'll need it for tomorrow, Goodnight.” Revolver waved, now parting from his station. “Goodnight, sheriff!” Caretaker chimed in, returning the wave back. With that, both men went to walk their ways, away from the theater room until tomorrow.
Caretaker had made it straight back to his room, heading for his desk as he laid the basket on top. He gave a deep sigh, obviously exhausted from the long day he had. But at least he was happy while being tired. His hand almost automatically went to take back the brooch. Taking it tightly in his hand as the other turned on his desk lamp. This way, he could really see the brooch perfectly. He sat there at his desk, admiring the brooch long enough. His mind is still racing with all the possibilities of Killdroid's plan to make this. Knowing that he was in fact important deep in Killdroid's system, made him feel an emotion that may have been named long ago. At least now, he was certainly sure that the robot and him did in fact have a bond. A bond not made from his imaginations, and a bond that was agreed and understood by both sides. A bond that could break the roles, their duties, for just a few minutes.
And the doctor wasn't wrong at all.
Robot's don't have feelings, everyone knows that.
Yet deep in Killdroid's system: Caretaker was more than a target, more than a subject.
Killdroid may not have literal feelings.
But they knew the healer was more than a
companion.