▶ ORIGINAL TEST DRIVE 2 POST IS LOCATED HERE ▶ ALL NEW TOP LEVELS SHOULD NOW BE POSTED ON TAKE 2
▶ ALL CARRIED OVER OLD TOP LEVELS SHOULD BE LINKED, NOT COPY AND PASTED
【 Thank you for choosing the Golden Peacock, 5-Star Resort and Casino. You are currently registered as a WILDCARD in our system.
Due to unprecedented high demand we are temporarily unable to check you in to your reserved room. We apologize for the inconvenience. We have arranged for a temporary room while we work on processing your reservation as quickly as possible. We appreciate your understanding.
As a special wedding gift from us, we have arranged for you and your new spouse to stay in one of our junior penthouses while you wait. Congratulations on your new marriage. We are so pleased you have chosen our resort for your honeymoon.
You will be notified as soon as your official reservation has been processed. Your comfort and happiness are our utmost priority. We hope you enjoy the provided amenities and lose yourself in marital bliss. 】
EVENS
EVENS: NEW CHARACTERS
Music plays. Instrumental, the tune gentle enough not to disturb peaceful rest. The sudden insistent beep of the Watch is a cutting cacophony across an otherwise sweet lullaby. Upon opening their eyes, new arrivals will quickly discover that something is wrong. The quilt snug across their body is weighty. Crystals glint in a weave of embroidery and cotton shimmers with threads of silver. Dozens of decorative pillows surround the bed. The gauzy curtains of the canopied bed are drawn, obscuring the rest of the room.
Extravagant for a kidnapping. Too extravagent. What’s more, these new guests will find something even stranger than this new diamond-studded suite tucked into bed beside them. Someone else. Who are they, what are they wearing? What happened last night?!
Guests are encouraged to explore the resort from here! There are paper maps available for those who would like and staff are happy to recommend locations if they have any preferences. Enjoy your honeymoon, you lovebirds!
ODDS
ODDS: SPECIAL RE-ARRIVAL
Never trust a hallway in the Golden peacock.
Cross the wrong threshold and time begins to slow. A short hallway becomes long, sheds its doors, only leading to turns without end. Guests too eager to explore the resort have gotten lost before. For how long always varies, dependent upon capriciousness of the resort. Hours? Yes. Years? Yes. Every guest caught in the winding hallways has reported the same thing: time is different there and too difficult to discern.
Some wayward guests have been caught in the endless hallways since the FIRST TDM. Weeks pass before a single doorway appears in the distance. It creaks upon opening before everything goes topsy-turvy. These guests have been let out of a trap door in the depths of Crane's Respite.
All water corridors will eventually lead back to the populated areas of Crane's Respite. The waters are warm, the scent of bath salts returns, and staff are wild with joy at finally finding all of you. They have been beside themselves searching ever since you vanished!
NOTES
PROMPT NOTES
▶ Because we love all of the new characters premiering on this TDM, we kindly request that our Evens prompt be top level exclusive for new characters. Current characters are encouraged to tag in to these prompts with the caveat that they’ve been picked up from their assigned suite (or wherever else they were before) and dumped into the new arrival’s bed. We would like for new characters to have this prompt unique to their top level comments!
▶ Players are welcome to have their current character riff off of these prompts in the log community with the exclusion of the new arrival element. This request is just for TDM top levels.
▶ Current characters and new characters are both welcome to freely mess around with the Odds prompt with the exclusion of the arrival element. For new characters, players may participate with the idea that their character is exploring Crane’s Respite after their unique arrival in the Evens prompt. The Odds arrival element may also be utilized by current player characters who may have been on an unofficial hiatus in January and did not tag as much as they would have liked, to explain any long IC absence.
▶ Octopi may be killed. If a character decides to eat one of the octopi they may find themselves taking on some of its traits. Which traits are up to player discretion.
ELEVATORS
ELEVATORS
The house has recently ordered a full changeout of art in all high traffic areas. The elevators in particular have received special attention with many different famous artworks and portraits studded to the walls for guests to admire. These artworks are treasures of the modern world that one would typically see behind glass at a museum. Guests may even find works from their own world hanging in the elevators. Even famous works that maybe have been lost to time. So this is where they ended up. Is that Vermeer's The Concert?
Guests may find their elevator suddenly stopping without warning. The portraits on the wall stir, curiously studying them, but there are three main portraits calling the shots. The portrait that controls that particular elevator will make their demands known with the threat that, if they are not obeyed, you will be trapped forever.
Elevators will function after the portrait's demands are met. Guests that hold out and refuse may find themselves trapped upwards of twelve hours. Guests with the ability to do so may crawl out of the top emergency door, free to go wherever they want from there.
GREAT TIT!
GREAT TIT!
Great Tit! is the Golden Peacock’s popular dessert bar and cafe. With its bright pops of color and whimsical treats, guests simply can’t resist stopping in for a butt shaped cookie and hazelnut coffee. After catching wind that the resort has decided to celebrate a dessert shop's most lucrative holiday, Great Tit! is ready to impress the masses. Advertisements for limited edition drinks and desserts rain the main lobby; one can’t go three steps without slipping on a neon pink coupon for 10 percent off nipple buns. Guests that decide to pass by the cafe will find themselves assaulted with confetti cannons and eager employees ushering them inside.
Guests will find a temporary communal shower room upon exiting Great Tit! where they can wash off after a fun day of rolling around in sugar. All guests will be gifted a tee branded with a, CHOCOLATE IS MY LOVER logo.
NOTES
PROMPT NOTES
▶ This portraits prompt has been triggered by several characters expressing interest in and investigating the lore of the resort paintings. This is just dipping a beginning toe in, but congrats to all for poking around!
▶ Portraits in the elevator should not be destroyed, purely for continuity’s sake. If a character would go far enough to attack one of the portraits, the portrait will slap them back with ghostly power.
▶ Characters may also figure other ways out of the elevator if they have specific abilities to do so. While the portraits can control the elevators, they cannot control your character(s). Any destruction to the elevator itself is liable to result in a rush of security dragging the culprit(s) away to the Iron Net.
▶ Great Tit! is running a massive sale! Even characters who are on the broke end of the spectrum will be able to afford to join in on the fun and indulge in sugar at these prices.
▶ Players are encouraged to make up any other elements for the Hall of Chocolate. If it’s a dessert and edible, it’s there. Enjoy your sugar coma!
▶ While the chocolate boxes are ICly limited due to Alessandro’s skills as a chocolatier, this is only an IC mechanic. There is no OOC limitation on this prompt as far as chocolate rarity goes.
THE NEST
ALICE AND THE PARROTS
Fashion boutiques are a dime a dozen in the Nest. The shopping hub is massive, lined with stores all trying to aggressively appeal to guests. A challenge in itself — but the guests of the Golden Peacock are no ordinary people. Used to being pampered and fed excitement, if these boutiques don’t bust their bottoms to appeal to the fickle nature of their patrons, they won’t be in business for much longer! One particular boutique, Alice and the Parrots, is riding winds of romantic thrill and churning out a couple of brand new fashion lines sure to draw in loads of chips.
Guests are welcome to try on clothes in Alice and the Parrots' dressing rooms. These dressing rooms are small and can only accommodate two people sharing at a time. Such is the life of a small boutique store. Sharing is no big deal, right? And there’s no way you can buy clothing this expensive without giving it a test first.
NOTES
PROMPT NOTES
▶ Players are encouraged to make up whatever cute outfits they would like for this prompt.
▶ Wedding clothes do not have to be cute and frilly; this section accommodates tastes of everyone.
▶ Alice and the Parrots is more expensive than Love Dove. Their clothing quality is excellent but their price tags are high. Staff may watch low ranks extra diligently to cut off any stealing. Thieves will be chased by NPC security! Anyone caught gets a day in the Iron Net.
CASINO CHAPEL
CASINO FLOOR
A Pop up Chapel has appeared in the Phoenix Casino. Guests are delighting in playing out weddings and pretending to get married — and a few guests are even tying the knot for real. They aren't worried about the sanctity of marriage; they can divorce tomorrow if they get bored of each other. And everyone knows that getting married doesn't mean you can't fuck whoever you want!
Since the resort isn't keeping track of how many marriages a guest has, all guests are encouraged to marry as many people as they would like. The more the merrier!
Wild wedding events will continue all throughout the month of February, until the guests find it's gotten stale. A divorce rush will round out the fun at the end of the month.
NOTES
PROMPT NOTES
▶ Weddings are not legally binding. Birdvis is not registered as a real officiant, but he does have an excellent beak and pompadour.
▶ Prizes from easy mode slot machines are automatic and do not require mod thumbs up to claim.
▶ Chip prize from difficult mode slot machines is automatic. The special prize is 5 reward points to add to your bank on rewards. Players who wish to claim the special prize should link the finished thread (the kink in question has been completed) under their rewards header with the header, Wedding Slot Machine. If you do any combination of 6/6 (finger hand lol) we ask you somehow make this sexy or involve a climax in order to claim the points.
BLANKET CW: Aphrodisiac; Compulsion; Costumes; Dubcon; Entrapment; Foodplay; Gambling; Lingerie; Matrimony; Tentacles; NSFW Images and Language; NTR; Nudity; Roleplay; Sacrilegious Themes
▶ All new characters on the TDM are WILDCARDS, which means they have not yet been assigned a card value. The house is still observing and deciding. As rank and suits are assigned upon acceptance your new character's suit will not manifest until they are accepted into the game.
▶ All TDMs are game canon. This TDM acts as the game's February event.
▶ Current characters may top level on the TDM. Please make sure to review the arrival prompt notes! Any current characters posting to the TDM should note they are current in their subject header.
▶ The top level directory is for new characters only. We want to make sure new characters are priority and receive attention!
▶ If you aren't satisfied with the prompts on this TDM please feel free to check out our LOCATIONS to explore more of the resort.
▶ Smut threads that take place on this TDM can be used for rewards. If both parties in the smut thread join the game, you may retroactively apply the character's initial card values to your 52 bank. If one character does not join the game the thread will not be applicable toward rewards (as that character would not have a card value). The character that does join would still receive a small payout for the encounter. Hopefully it was a fun thread anyway!
▶ We ask you to kindly add content warnings to your threads as appropriate.
▶ If you do not currently have permissions and kinks listed in your character’s journal we suggest leaving a note in your top level of any limits or boundaries for other players to reference.
▶ Thank you for spending Valentine's Day with us! You're our sweetheart this year. 💕
[Even if Monika didn't think it's a big deal and forgives him, it's still a guilt that'll remain in him. That'll be difficult to forget; the look of fear in her eyes because of him isn't a look he wanted to see again. And, if he had actually stabbed her, he wouldn't ever forgive himself.
Still, he chooses not to push the subject any more than necessary.]
I lent you my coat. It's only fair I took yours.
[Right? It makes sense to him.]
The actual reason why I did not just "poof"- [And yes, he did just airqoute with his fingers.] -more clothes is because I have to generate new clothes. You ruined my bodysuit, remember?
[He knows he really shouldn't be referring back to what happened in the elevator, but it's a bit difficult not to given the conversation. If she didn't tear it in half, it'll still be usable.]
It will take some time for me to materialize new clothes, and it takes a lot of energy to do so. [Gosh, he'll need a lot of refuel after this.]
[ She stops. Stares. Flails. Thank God his coat's long enough, because it'd be displaying her goods all over again otherwise. ]
That's not fair! You're naked all the time! It shouldn't be a big deal to stay naked!
[ It makes sense to her! More sense than whatever he's thinking!
So, yeah. Temporary hold on the forgetting part. Now that she's not aphro crazy, she has to show her pent up displeasure at his behavior and be typical-Monika crazy. ]
And don't blame that on me. You were being sassy! [ She points an accusatory finger at his face. ] Learn to submit to me better!
[ What an amazing "friend" here. So, so friendly. ]
[Oh, is she doing this now? Now of all times? Because Soundwave isn't about to lay down and tank those hits.]
I am not naked all the time. My armor is my "clothes". You should know that by now.
[She's seen it! If he's naked, his metal sausage would be hanging out all the time!]
I will submit whenever I feel like it. [And he returns an accusatory finger at her face!] And you need to learn better ways of making me submit to you than immediately threatening me with a knife. You didn't even hesitate to use it.
[As if the two looking like they just came out of a toxic swamp wasn't already attracting attention from the other guests, now they're bickering like a married couple]
[ Of course they're doing this. Hasn't she made it loud and clear she has no sense of doing things at the right time and place? ]
You're naked by human standards, which means you're naked because I say you're naked! Though...it does make me wonder where you keep your thing all the time. At least you're wearing underwear, I guess!
[ Back to not using the dirty word for his privates again. Ahh, it was nice while it lasted. ]
Besides! [ With a huff, she pushes his finger away, then steps in to keep (quietly!) arguing in his face. ] If it works, it works! I had to make sure I had your attention, especially when you could run up and squish me whenever you want to!
[ They're friends! Married friends! They can bicker as much as they want! ]
I do not care about human standards. By Cybertronian standards, I am not naked, so I can confidently say that I am not naked. And I do not think I need to answer that for you.
[Where else but inside him, of course. Does Soundwave knows Monika doesn't know Cybertronian anatomy? Definitely. Does he care to explain? No, definitely not. So, she can just keep wondering or let her imaginations run wild.
His eyes narrow at her and growls in irritation.]
.... You could've used literally anything else, but your first choice was a knife. And you used a stun gun for... I do not even know what possible reason there was for you using the stun gun.
You should care, because I care! You're here with me, and my opinion matters, too, Mr. I Do NoT ThInK I NeEd tO AnSwEr ThAt fOr YoU!
[ She's getting childish now. What else is new? If the Maiden could see them now, she'd be losing her mind with laughter. Her chaos continues, even when they've left her elevator ]
And wooow! I didn't know I asked for critique on my work! I was in the moment! Doing what felt right! [ Oh, no. She's getting louder. The staircase's acoustics aren't helping. ] Which, need I remind you, you really, really liked it! YOUR EVERYTHING IS ALL OVER ME!
What, do you expect me-- my real body --to wear clothes now? Or should my avatar be walking around in the resort naked because my real body is "naked", according to your standard? Don't be ridiculous.
[Oh Primus, here she goes getting loud again. Soundwave preemptively shields his ears with his hands when she starts yelling. Still hurts, but he isn't physically reeling in pain at least.
Now, to actually combat her remark.]
I.... [His mouth hangs open for a second, then closes, then opens up back again, only to not find a single argument against it] I...
[Okay, she actually got no argument from him there.]
Fine, I concede that I did enjoy it. More than I should have.... But I still think it was ridiculous of you to injure me to make me submit to you.
[ Wow, what the hell! He can't call out her illogical logic like that! Because it's--he's--this isn't fair! She's always right! ]
You're so infuriating! I don't know why I talk to you sometimes!
[ In short, she's mad that he's right, and she refuses to accept that. Therefore, shut up!
At least she's got something to be smug about. She laughs in triumph when he's forced to admit he's a freak. Unlike her, who is very normal. ]
Whatever. [ Finally, she's moving again, returning to climbing the stairs. ] I wasn't hurting you. Not really. It's not like I could stab or shock the real you. What's the big deal if you enjoyed it?
[ Not unless he's like a video game boss and has a hidden weak spot for her to attack. If so, game on. Show her the spike! ]
[Honestly, he feels the same. he's not sure why he talks to her, too. She's so.... Annoying! Infuriating! Confusing! He huffs, but when Monika starts moving again, he follows her up the stairs from behind.]
Because there's a chance of either my holoavatar generator burning out, or worse... a feedback-induced spark burnout. Death, in other words.
[Luckily, that did not happen, and if he had actually sense he was in real danger, he would've deactivate the avatar immediately. Had she aimed the knife at any "vital" spots, or shocked him any longer than she did, he would actually die.
Regardless, he made it out alive.]
If... [And he's emphasizing the "if" here because haha no way they're going to something that dumb again.] There is a next time, I do not mind you using a knife, just be careful to not "kill" the avatar.
[He lets out a sigh.]
... I can't believe you've awakened something new in me. [Yea, he's blaming her for his new kink.]
[ Ah. Interesting. This changes things, doesn't it? Which means she's stopping, yet again, to turn and yell at him. ]
Why didn't you say anything, then?! I don't want to hurt you that much! Or...do anything like...
[ She can't say the word. Death. Something about it always makes her flinch uncomfortably, usually when it's in the context of her being potentially responsible for it. But, as usual, she pushes the discomfort away. If she doesn't think of it, it doesn't exist. ]
Wh-Whatever. It was just that painting making me crazy. I'm not doing anything like that again. I'd...rather not hurt you.
[ As if you didn't like it, a voice taunts in her mind. As if the thought of killing him didn't get you off.
Monika grits her teeth, then carries on with a scowl. If she still had shoes on, she'd be making quite the racket, as hard as she's stomping her way up. ]
I didn't do anything! That was all you! Just like it was all you last night!
[That's all he could offer, really. The adrenaline and pleasure overridden what was supposed to be common sense to him, to warn her that what they were doing was risky to him. Just another guilt to pile atop of another.
I'd...rather not hurt you.
She... She doesn't sound convincing. But, Soundwave thinks it's best to not point it out, and honestly, he's fine with leaving it at that. That is until he made that remark at the end, which seems to have set Monika off.
Surprise flits across his face, then a scowl. Back here again. To petty bickering.]
What do you mean all me? You have as much to blame as me.
We were both so caught in the moment that it didn't feel wrong, and.... and besides... I know you enjoyed using that knife on me, hurting me.
[And in then, enjoy feeling the pain. They were both freaks.]
[ Her grip on the railing tightens as she moves. She can feel her rage rising, boiling up, and it's getting more difficult to put a lid on it. Even from a--God, what even are they anymore? Whatever they are, she hates when someone doesn't allow her to ignore her wrongs. Wrongs that aren't even wrong, because she hasn't done anything wrong!
She tries to stay quiet. She really does. Saying anything else is probably going to send them plunging off the cliff they're already clinging to. But this was going beyond petty. This, in her mind, was getting personal. ]
You don't know anything about me. Don't pretend like you do.
[ After growling out those denials, she looses a long, shaky breath. Good. She kept the worst of her rage under control. If he stops pressing the issue, she'll be fine. Don't make her have to confront these uncomfortable thoughts. Let her live in her delusion. Just shut up, Soundwave, and everything will be fine. ]
[Soundwave tries not to let his emotion seep into his expression. But he is without his mask and it is plain to see how displeased he is with Monika, hands clenching into fists, shaking from his own boiling anger. What is there to pretend? He's seen how she acted during those two moments they had. That tells him enough.
His eyes narrow at her for a minute longer before turning his gaze away with a huff. Soundwave knows when to not make the situation any worse than it already was.
They should've just dropped talking about what transpired in the elevator.
So, he doesn't say anything more. He feels a.... Little bad? For angering her, but he won't apologies. After all, why apologize when he didn't even say anything wrong? ..... Maybe he will when his own mind calm down from this trainwreck of a friendship they have, but right now, he's too irritated and angry with her.
When she starts moving again, he'll follow quietly from behind. Not a word during the climb up the stairs or even when they reach her room. If she doesn't say, it'll be fine. Things will settle down]
[ There's a dismissive huff of a laugh when she sees his displeasure. Amazing! An emotion! Has he finally realized how wrong he is? Good. He needed to.
She continues up the stairs as if she's made of stone, rigid and unyielding. There's a constant expectation that he's not going to listen. It'd be a sad thing if he didn't, because then he'd really see the dark side of her that keeps slipping out. He'd see the person who'd turn and stare with a smile, eyes dead and unfeeling, then promptly shove him down the stairs. If he was grievously injured? Blame his lack of balance. Blame the stairs. She'd have nothing to do with an untimely death.
All remains relatively calm, however. It soothes the fire in her. Things always go much better when he's a good little robot for her.
By the time they reach her room, she's better. Somewhat. Still stiff and standoffish, but she's at least no longer radiating murderous energy. Wordlessly, she opens her door, unceremoniously entering without bothering to wait and see if he's following. Tossing off his jacket almost immediately follows as she strides onward. Anger has a way of destroying her shame, much like being in the throes of passion does. ]
I'm taking a shower. You can do whatever you want.
[ Without waiting for a response, she disappears into one of the bathrooms. Ah. Perhaps she's not as okay as she thought she was. Maybe the shower would rinse away the last of the anger? Who knows.
Maybe he can use the time when he's left to his own devices to decide if this trainwreck is worth the bother. ]
[Honestly, he expected Monika to close the door on him, which... would be an understable reaction, if a bit upsetting. But Soundwave follows her into her room, still quiet. His eyes glance at Monika, watching her disappear into one of the bathrooms, but again, not saying anything.
At least he doesn't have to bother with a shower since he could just re-materialize the avatar.
After rmoving both her white dress and panties, both stained with his blood, is left folded neatly on a table. Soundwave glances at the bathroom door she entered, wondering if she's worth his time anymore.... She's such a trainwreck, irritating, and obnoxious, and he likes he--- No, she probably hates him for what happened at the staircase. If she didn't before, she probably does now. Who wouldn't? Nice job fucking up your only friendship in this place, Soundwave.
Maybe it's best he just leave. To further avoid a bigger mess. And so his holoavatar de-materialized into the aether, along with his jacket.
.......
.....
....
...
Why did he come back here? Why did he rematerializes his avatar in her room? Sitting on the bed while hugging his knees and his head resting on his knees? He's not even sure if he has an answer for that himself, but he is waiting for Monika. He even has a boxes of sweets and chocolate in front of him. His real body made a quick stop at a store and delivered them to her room. Though he's waiting outside in the lounge somewhere instead of inviting himself into her room.]
[ She expected to come out to an empty room. It'd make sense. The longer she'd stood under the water, the more reality settled in, as usual. Go figure. She finds a good thing, a good person? alien? mech? that hasn't abandoned her despite all she's done. Yeah, it's barely been a day since they met, but the sort of connection they have...how dumb would she be to throw it all away? If she hasn't already done so...
For once in her sad, short life, shouldn't she try to hold on to a friend instead of seeing them as an obstacle?
So, when she steps out of the bathroom, hair and body wrapped up in towels, she freezes when she finds him there on her bed. She hasn't even noticed the treats. Only him. ]
You're a glutton for punishment.
[ Is she saying that to him, or is she saying it to herself? Still, she gradually heads over, perching herself precariously on the edge of the bed a few feet away from him. ]
[Maybe he needed some closure. Maybe he needed to know just how she thinks of him after that fight? Maybe that's why he's back? In all of his life, millions of years, he's never been in a fight with a friend before, so... He doesn't know what to do. If she yelled at him for sticking around, then that'll just seal the deal. They break their friendship, never apologize, and ignore each other. The resort is big enough that they could reasonably avoid each other. She has every right to be angry at him.
Does he want that? No, he doesn't, of course. Despite everything, he still wants to hold onto this one thing he has, but losing it seems to be the most likely scenario.
Hearing the door click open, his head lifts up. He has his mask back on again, able to hide his emotions from her. Fully expecting Monika to raise her voice at him again and be hurt all inside, he steels himself. Ah, here it comes. Except... She doesn't. Instead, she makes a small remark. No yelling, or telling him to leave her sight.
Maybe he is just a glutton for punishment. Maybe they both are.]
It isn't as if I have anywhere else I want to be.
[Implying that this is the only place he wanted to be. Be close to Monika? ... Why would he, after everything? They aren't in the elevator anymore and the aphrodisiac is out of his system, but his mind is just as confused with himself as back then.
His eyes turn down to his treats, then back to Monika, pondering.]
Besides, I made a promise to you. [That's right. He made that promise, and... He'll just hold onto that promise as an excuse to be with her.]
[ His words weigh down on her, pushing her shoulders lower. It's not much longer before she can't keep her gaze on him. More than how her heart flutters at hearing him say that--fluttering in a way it very much shouldn't--it also drives in how awful she's been to him.
Well...mostly. There's always that stubborn part of her that will hold out and insist she can't take all the blame. It takes two to tango. Why should she have to deal with the burden of feeling bad?! He's the one who's wrong! Not her!
Then again, was the price of being right worth the burden of being alone?
The slight purse of her lips loosens as her eyes fall upon the treats at the same time. Her eyebrows rise, then her gaze with it, staring at the mask he's hiding his face behind. She wishes he wouldn't, but who can blame him, having to deal with someone like her? She'd hide away if she could, too. ]
You're way better with promises than I am. [ She laughs weakly, then sighs softly, hanging her head. ] I'm not even a good friend. Why do you even put up with me? You should want to be anywhere but here.
[Surprising. She can be self aware. If there's really one thing he doesn't like about Monika is that she's incapable of accepting any blame herself. It isn't as if he's saying she should take all the blame, but rather they both should share it, feel bad together.
But honestly, he's not looking to have another fight with her. Monika is willing to talk to him still, so he should try to repair the broken bridge between them.]
Because you are still my only friend.
[Just a friend? Maybe. But regardless of that, even with the mask on, he sounds earnest. Though he could make new friends outside of this room, if he makes an effort to meet people, Monika is still the first friend he made in the resort. That's indisputable. And despite everything, she's still someone he cares, a lot more than he realized or willing to admit.
His gaze dips back down to the treats, ponders for another second longer, then grabs a chocolate bar before moving to sit on the edge of the bed but still keeping a respectful distance away from her.
Staring straight ahead rather than at Monika, he holds the candy out to her, should she want to take it. After all, she hadn't had her breakfast yet.]
Perhaps I should, but this is where I wanted to be most. No, or rather.... I want to stay by your side. [Yeah, he knows it's weird especially after the fight, and he's a little confused himself, but that's what he feels strongest right now]
I admit... I was afraid you would rather not be friends with me any longer.
[ The more he says, the mech of few words that he is, the less words come to her. Although she's awful at accepting blame, she can at least see when someone's hurting. That ability grows the more she cares about someone, so it's surprising that she's noticing this. Before now, she'd saved that privilege only for the Player. So, to actually worry about Soundwave, to feel almost guilty...
The implications of this are almost terrifying.
She shoves the worry aside, instead focusing on the candy he's holding out. She stares at it, not moving to take it. Her stomach growls at the sight, but still, it's not what she wants. ]
I...thought about it. I figured it'd be easier. [ She almost didn't admit to it, but maybe it won't hurt to tell the truth for once. ] But, for the first time since I've gotten here, the whole time I've been with you, I realized...I haven't felt alone.
[ At last, she reaches out to take the candy. However, she drops it on the bed and takes his hand instead. Softly. Loosely. Just in case he wants to reject the contact. ]
You're the first real friend I've ever had. [ After scooting closer, she leans into his attempt to avoid looking at her, her head's towel tilting slightly from the weight of her hair, determined to gaze into his hidden eyes. ] My only friend.
[He thought about it. Wouldn't it be much easier to avoid letting someone close to him? So that he wouldn't ever have to experience this hurt again, or the hurt of losing a friend.
In the end, it isn't worth living life alone, especially when he recognizes that he has someone he cares in this resort.
He tenses at the contact. Not because he's scared of her or anything, just that he wasn't expecting it at all. However, not wanting to send a wrong signal to Monika, he wraps his fingers around her hand and gives her a light, comforting squeeze. Still, Soundwave isn't sure he could meet her face so he keeps looking ahead... until Monika herself decides to be within his field of vision.
His head tilts towards her at least, the visor staring blankly back at her determined gaze.
.... If she's so determined to look into his eyes, then.... He reaches his free hand to his mask, two fingers under the mask, almost hesitant to pull it down, before finally committing to it. The visor is gone, and his crimson teary gaze meets with Monika's. The hurt and discomfort that painted his face during the entire wait is mostly gone now, replaced with one of appreciation, gratefulness, and even apologetic.]
Thank you. And... I am sorry, my friend.
[Silence lingers from him for a moment, content with just staring into Monika's eyes. .... No, he... Isn't content with just that.]
Can I... have a hug? [It's not a request he'd ever make. Honestly, it sounds pathetic the way he asked for it, how his cheeks immediately heats up and madly flushes red. But, he's determined to keep his gaze on her, even if every fiber of his being want to turn his head away from her.]
[ She doesn't comment on the ease of pushing people away. Before now, she'd found it incredibly easy, especially since the "people" she pushed away weren't anything living. When confronted with someone real and alive, however, someone that didn't react based on set commands, the difficulty is nothing like she expected or wanted. Every time she had a thought of pulling away, something would snap her back.
He's such a grump...but he's sweet. He's so stubborn...but willing to be patient with her. He's not human...but why does that matter? He won't let her do everything she wants...but the constant battle against him has led to some growth and understanding. Everything she thinks she wants, he finds some way to prove she wants the opposite, simply by being him.
Some of the chill that'd settled on her dissipates when he squeezes her hand back, a chill that had nothing to do with wearing only towels. She sighs in relief. Their bridge was mending. Or so she hopes. ]
Mm. There you are. [ Her small smile is just as warm once he stops hiding behind his mask. ] Nice to see you again.
[ If his request is pathetic, oh well. That'd mean she was pathetic for wanting the same. The fact that he asked, though? It's something special. And it really means something, the way he keeps his eyes on hers, no matter how embarrassed he seems to look.
There's hardly any hesitation. She lightly tugs on his hand, pulling them together then wrapping her arms around him. As she squeezes him, a wall she's kept up creaks and cracks. Her eyes close as she fights for her barrier to remain in place. ]
I'll give you a hug later, too. [ The real him, she means. ] And I'm--I'm--
[ The wall crumbles a little more. ]
Thank you. A-And. I'm... [ Was that a sniffle? ] I'm sorry.
[ She could hardly get the apology out, barely above a whisper, but...she did it. She let a wall fall, just for him. ]
[Embarrassed still, but that pathetic feeling soon goes away when Monika pulls him into a hug, replaced with... Happiness?
A strong swirl of emotions burst inside him in the hug. But unlike in the elevator, it's... a lot clearer to him. Nothing but positive emotions. Happiness, joy, and love... Or at least, he recognizes it as platonic kind of love rather.
It.. isn't odd for him to feel this many emotions at once and feel them so strongly towards a friend. Normally, Soundwave would never show himself so vulnerable so often, and he wouldn't think that he would with someone he met for less than a day. But... here he is. Hugging Monika. Squeezing Monika. Holding Monika close. Part of it is that he's touch-starved, affection-starved, but it's undeniably nice, having someone you trusted and cared so much you could allow a moment of vulnerability. To not worry about anything and only think about the comfort of each other's presence and warmth.
Hell, he even looks forward to when she'll hug him, which had him chuckling lightly when she said it. Looking forward to a hug? It's unbecoming of him, but...
His own icy exterior melts away, just for her.
Her apology was barely above a whisper, but to Soundwave? He hears her loud and clear, but what is more important is that he can hear the sincerity in her voice. That is all that matters to him, and he doesn't need any more from her.
That said, the apology makes him shake slightly, holding himself back. As an empath, he can feel the emotions coming from her, but in a moment of vulnerability? He doesn't just feel them but is also affected by them. That, and the embrace makes him crumble. He's not a crier, but.... He finally lets a tear roll down his cheek, before he presses his face to rest on her shoulder. It's not a sad tear, but one of happiness instead.]
It's okay. [His own voice is a whisper. His hand moves in slow circles on her back in a comforting rub, and the the other hand moves up to pat the back of her head.] It's okay, Monika.
[ Perhaps it's a stroke of luck for him that she doesn't see the tear. She would've said something about it, grabbing onto an easy target to pull them away from her emotions. She's let him in deeper than she ever intended. Any further and he'd be lost in her forever. She can't, she can't.
His words pull her further into turmoil. Where's his mask when she needs it? Anything to hide her face and recoil from the truth. ]
N-No. [ And she actually sounds a little scared. ] Don't say it's okay. You'll just--
[ Another sniffle sneaks out, and another. This level of caring about her well-being is too much. It wasn't something she was meant to have. Not from him, right? Right?
Monika trembles against him, clutching him tighter. She doesn't deserve this, but she wants it. ]
Please, don't look at m-me when I'm like this...
[ Don't see her being so vulnerable, and, unbeknownst to her, feel her being that way, which would only make her crumble further if she did know. Please, don't witness her being so obviously weak. ]
[If he shows a weak and vulnerable side of him to her, then he wants to see hers as well. Let them both be vulnerable in each other's embrace. However, he won't look at her face, as he too doesn't dare to show her the face his avatar currently is making from. Honestly, he doesn't even want to know what face he's making.
Perhaps, without his empath powers, he would actually do as said and pulled back, but... This feeling of want from her is strong, and he too wants the same. It doesn't matter if she thinks she doesn't deserved it, because he believes otherwise. So he isn't letting go nor will he stop saying those caring words to her.]
It's okay, Monika. Do not worry.
[His embrace tightens, trying his best to not tremble himself but failing to do so. His hands rub and pat at her.]
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
goldmods) wrote in ![[community profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/community.png)
peacockstop2024-02-19 10:08 pm
no subject
Still, he chooses not to push the subject any more than necessary.]
I lent you my coat. It's only fair I took yours.
[Right? It makes sense to him.]
The actual reason why I did not just "poof"- [And yes, he did just airqoute with his fingers.] -more clothes is because I have to generate new clothes. You ruined my bodysuit, remember?
[He knows he really shouldn't be referring back to what happened in the elevator, but it's a bit difficult not to given the conversation. If she didn't tear it in half, it'll still be usable.]
It will take some time for me to materialize new clothes, and it takes a lot of energy to do so. [Gosh, he'll need a lot of refuel after this.]
no subject
That's not fair! You're naked all the time! It shouldn't be a big deal to stay naked!
[ It makes sense to her! More sense than whatever he's thinking!
So, yeah. Temporary hold on the forgetting part. Now that she's not aphro crazy, she has to show her pent up displeasure at his behavior and be typical-Monika crazy. ]
And don't blame that on me. You were being sassy! [ She points an accusatory finger at his face. ] Learn to submit to me better!
[ What an amazing "friend" here. So, so friendly. ]
no subject
I am not naked all the time. My armor is my "clothes". You should know that by now.
[She's seen it! If he's naked, his metal sausage would be hanging out all the time!]
I will submit whenever I feel like it. [And he returns an accusatory finger at her face!] And you need to learn better ways of making me submit to you than immediately threatening me with a knife. You didn't even hesitate to use it.
[As if the two looking like they just came out of a toxic swamp wasn't already attracting attention from the other guests, now they're bickering like a married couple]
no subject
You're naked by human standards, which means you're naked because I say you're naked! Though...it does make me wonder where you keep your thing all the time. At least you're wearing underwear, I guess!
[ Back to not using the dirty word for his privates again. Ahh, it was nice while it lasted. ]
Besides! [ With a huff, she pushes his finger away, then steps in to keep (quietly!) arguing in his face. ] If it works, it works! I had to make sure I had your attention, especially when you could run up and squish me whenever you want to!
[ They're friends! Married friends! They can bicker as much as they want! ]
no subject
[Where else but inside him, of course. Does Soundwave knows Monika doesn't know Cybertronian anatomy? Definitely. Does he care to explain? No, definitely not. So, she can just keep wondering or let her imaginations run wild.
His eyes narrow at her and growls in irritation.]
.... You could've used literally anything else, but your first choice was a knife. And you used a stun gun for... I do not even know what possible reason there was for you using the stun gun.
no subject
[ She's getting childish now. What else is new? If the Maiden could see them now, she'd be losing her mind with laughter. Her chaos continues, even when they've left her elevator ]
And wooow! I didn't know I asked for critique on my work! I was in the moment! Doing what felt right! [ Oh, no. She's getting louder. The staircase's acoustics aren't helping. ] Which, need I remind you, you really, really liked it! YOUR EVERYTHING IS ALL OVER ME!
no subject
[Oh Primus, here she goes getting loud again. Soundwave preemptively shields his ears with his hands when she starts yelling. Still hurts, but he isn't physically reeling in pain at least.
Now, to actually combat her remark.]
I.... [His mouth hangs open for a second, then closes, then opens up back again, only to not find a single argument against it] I...
[Okay, she actually got no argument from him there.]
Fine, I concede that I did enjoy it. More than I should have.... But I still think it was ridiculous of you to injure me to make me submit to you.
no subject
You're so infuriating! I don't know why I talk to you sometimes!
[ In short, she's mad that he's right, and she refuses to accept that. Therefore, shut up!
At least she's got something to be smug about. She laughs in triumph when he's forced to admit he's a freak. Unlike her, who is very normal. ]
Whatever. [ Finally, she's moving again, returning to climbing the stairs. ] I wasn't hurting you. Not really. It's not like I could stab or shock the real you. What's the big deal if you enjoyed it?
[ Not unless he's like a video game boss and has a hidden weak spot for her to attack. If so, game on. Show her the spike! ]
no subject
Because there's a chance of either my holoavatar generator burning out, or worse... a feedback-induced spark burnout. Death, in other words.
[Luckily, that did not happen, and if he had actually sense he was in real danger, he would've deactivate the avatar immediately. Had she aimed the knife at any "vital" spots, or shocked him any longer than she did, he would actually die.
Regardless, he made it out alive.]
If... [And he's emphasizing the "if" here because haha no way they're going to something that dumb again.] There is a next time, I do not mind you using a knife, just be careful to not "kill" the avatar.
[He lets out a sigh.]
... I can't believe you've awakened something new in me. [Yea, he's blaming her for his new kink.]
no subject
Why didn't you say anything, then?! I don't want to hurt you that much! Or...do anything like...
[ She can't say the word. Death. Something about it always makes her flinch uncomfortably, usually when it's in the context of her being potentially responsible for it. But, as usual, she pushes the discomfort away. If she doesn't think of it, it doesn't exist. ]
Wh-Whatever. It was just that painting making me crazy. I'm not doing anything like that again. I'd...rather not hurt you.
[ As if you didn't like it, a voice taunts in her mind. As if the thought of killing him didn't get you off.
Monika grits her teeth, then carries on with a scowl. If she still had shoes on, she'd be making quite the racket, as hard as she's stomping her way up. ]
I didn't do anything! That was all you! Just like it was all you last night!
[ Back to petty bickering it is, then. ]
no subject
[That's all he could offer, really. The adrenaline and pleasure overridden what was supposed to be common sense to him, to warn her that what they were doing was risky to him. Just another guilt to pile atop of another.
I'd...rather not hurt you.
She... She doesn't sound convincing. But, Soundwave thinks it's best to not point it out, and honestly, he's fine with leaving it at that. That is until he made that remark at the end, which seems to have set Monika off.
Surprise flits across his face, then a scowl. Back here again. To petty bickering.]
What do you mean all me? You have as much to blame as me.
We were both so caught in the moment that it didn't feel wrong, and.... and besides... I know you enjoyed using that knife on me, hurting me.
[And in then, enjoy feeling the pain. They were both freaks.]
no subject
She tries to stay quiet. She really does. Saying anything else is probably going to send them plunging off the cliff they're already clinging to. But this was going beyond petty. This, in her mind, was getting personal. ]
You don't know anything about me. Don't pretend like you do.
[ After growling out those denials, she looses a long, shaky breath. Good. She kept the worst of her rage under control. If he stops pressing the issue, she'll be fine. Don't make her have to confront these uncomfortable thoughts. Let her live in her delusion. Just shut up, Soundwave, and everything will be fine. ]
no subject
His eyes narrow at her for a minute longer before turning his gaze away with a huff. Soundwave knows when to not make the situation any worse than it already was.
They should've just dropped talking about what transpired in the elevator.
So, he doesn't say anything more. He feels a.... Little bad? For angering her, but he won't apologies. After all, why apologize when he didn't even say anything wrong? ..... Maybe he will when his own mind calm down from this trainwreck of a friendship they have, but right now, he's too irritated and angry with her.
When she starts moving again, he'll follow quietly from behind. Not a word during the climb up the stairs or even when they reach her room. If she doesn't say, it'll be fine. Things will settle down]
no subject
She continues up the stairs as if she's made of stone, rigid and unyielding. There's a constant expectation that he's not going to listen. It'd be a sad thing if he didn't, because then he'd really see the dark side of her that keeps slipping out. He'd see the person who'd turn and stare with a smile, eyes dead and unfeeling, then promptly shove him down the stairs. If he was grievously injured? Blame his lack of balance. Blame the stairs. She'd have nothing to do with an untimely death.
All remains relatively calm, however. It soothes the fire in her. Things always go much better when he's a good little robot for her.
By the time they reach her room, she's better. Somewhat. Still stiff and standoffish, but she's at least no longer radiating murderous energy. Wordlessly, she opens her door, unceremoniously entering without bothering to wait and see if he's following. Tossing off his jacket almost immediately follows as she strides onward. Anger has a way of destroying her shame, much like being in the throes of passion does. ]
I'm taking a shower. You can do whatever you want.
[ Without waiting for a response, she disappears into one of the bathrooms. Ah. Perhaps she's not as okay as she thought she was. Maybe the shower would rinse away the last of the anger? Who knows.
Maybe he can use the time when he's left to his own devices to decide if this trainwreck is worth the bother. ]
no subject
At least he doesn't have to bother with a shower since he could just re-materialize the avatar.
After rmoving both her white dress and panties, both stained with his blood, is left folded neatly on a table. Soundwave glances at the bathroom door she entered, wondering if she's worth his time anymore.... She's such a trainwreck, irritating, and obnoxious, and he likes he--- No, she probably hates him for what happened at the staircase. If she didn't before, she probably does now. Who wouldn't? Nice job fucking up your only friendship in this place, Soundwave.
Maybe it's best he just leave. To further avoid a bigger mess. And so his holoavatar de-materialized into the aether, along with his jacket.
.......
.....
....
...
Why did he come back here? Why did he rematerializes his avatar in her room? Sitting on the bed while hugging his knees and his head resting on his knees? He's not even sure if he has an answer for that himself, but he is waiting for Monika. He even has a boxes of sweets and chocolate in front of him. His real body made a quick stop at a store and delivered them to her room. Though he's waiting outside in the lounge somewhere instead of inviting himself into her room.]
no subject
For once in her sad, short life, shouldn't she try to hold on to a friend instead of seeing them as an obstacle?
So, when she steps out of the bathroom, hair and body wrapped up in towels, she freezes when she finds him there on her bed. She hasn't even noticed the treats. Only him. ]
You're a glutton for punishment.
[ Is she saying that to him, or is she saying it to herself? Still, she gradually heads over, perching herself precariously on the edge of the bed a few feet away from him. ]
I thought you'd be gone by now.
no subject
Does he want that? No, he doesn't, of course. Despite everything, he still wants to hold onto this one thing he has, but losing it seems to be the most likely scenario.
Hearing the door click open, his head lifts up. He has his mask back on again, able to hide his emotions from her. Fully expecting Monika to raise her voice at him again and be hurt all inside, he steels himself. Ah, here it comes. Except... She doesn't. Instead, she makes a small remark. No yelling, or telling him to leave her sight.
Maybe he is just a glutton for punishment. Maybe they both are.]
It isn't as if I have anywhere else I want to be.
[Implying that this is the only place he wanted to be. Be close to Monika? ... Why would he, after everything? They aren't in the elevator anymore and the aphrodisiac is out of his system, but his mind is just as confused with himself as back then.
His eyes turn down to his treats, then back to Monika, pondering.]
Besides, I made a promise to you. [That's right. He made that promise, and... He'll just hold onto that promise as an excuse to be with her.]
no subject
Well...mostly. There's always that stubborn part of her that will hold out and insist she can't take all the blame. It takes two to tango. Why should she have to deal with the burden of feeling bad?! He's the one who's wrong! Not her!
Then again, was the price of being right worth the burden of being alone?
The slight purse of her lips loosens as her eyes fall upon the treats at the same time. Her eyebrows rise, then her gaze with it, staring at the mask he's hiding his face behind. She wishes he wouldn't, but who can blame him, having to deal with someone like her? She'd hide away if she could, too. ]
You're way better with promises than I am. [ She laughs weakly, then sighs softly, hanging her head. ] I'm not even a good friend. Why do you even put up with me? You should want to be anywhere but here.
[ Look at that! She can be self-aware! ]
no subject
But honestly, he's not looking to have another fight with her. Monika is willing to talk to him still, so he should try to repair the broken bridge between them.]
Because you are still my only friend.
[Just a friend? Maybe. But regardless of that, even with the mask on, he sounds earnest. Though he could make new friends outside of this room, if he makes an effort to meet people, Monika is still the first friend he made in the resort. That's indisputable. And despite everything, she's still someone he cares, a lot more than he realized or willing to admit.
His gaze dips back down to the treats, ponders for another second longer, then grabs a chocolate bar before moving to sit on the edge of the bed but still keeping a respectful distance away from her.
Staring straight ahead rather than at Monika, he holds the candy out to her, should she want to take it. After all, she hadn't had her breakfast yet.]
Perhaps I should, but this is where I wanted to be most. No, or rather.... I want to stay by your side. [Yeah, he knows it's weird especially after the fight, and he's a little confused himself, but that's what he feels strongest right now]
I admit... I was afraid you would rather not be friends with me any longer.
no subject
The implications of this are almost terrifying.
She shoves the worry aside, instead focusing on the candy he's holding out. She stares at it, not moving to take it. Her stomach growls at the sight, but still, it's not what she wants. ]
I...thought about it. I figured it'd be easier. [ She almost didn't admit to it, but maybe it won't hurt to tell the truth for once. ] But, for the first time since I've gotten here, the whole time I've been with you, I realized...I haven't felt alone.
[ At last, she reaches out to take the candy. However, she drops it on the bed and takes his hand instead. Softly. Loosely. Just in case he wants to reject the contact. ]
You're the first real friend I've ever had. [ After scooting closer, she leans into his attempt to avoid looking at her, her head's towel tilting slightly from the weight of her hair, determined to gaze into his hidden eyes. ] My only friend.
no subject
[He thought about it. Wouldn't it be much easier to avoid letting someone close to him? So that he wouldn't ever have to experience this hurt again, or the hurt of losing a friend.
In the end, it isn't worth living life alone, especially when he recognizes that he has someone he cares in this resort.
He tenses at the contact. Not because he's scared of her or anything, just that he wasn't expecting it at all. However, not wanting to send a wrong signal to Monika, he wraps his fingers around her hand and gives her a light, comforting squeeze. Still, Soundwave isn't sure he could meet her face so he keeps looking ahead... until Monika herself decides to be within his field of vision.
His head tilts towards her at least, the visor staring blankly back at her determined gaze.
.... If she's so determined to look into his eyes, then.... He reaches his free hand to his mask, two fingers under the mask, almost hesitant to pull it down, before finally committing to it. The visor is gone, and his crimson teary gaze meets with Monika's. The hurt and discomfort that painted his face during the entire wait is mostly gone now, replaced with one of appreciation, gratefulness, and even apologetic.]
Thank you. And... I am sorry, my friend.
[Silence lingers from him for a moment, content with just staring into Monika's eyes. .... No, he... Isn't content with just that.]
Can I... have a hug? [It's not a request he'd ever make. Honestly, it sounds pathetic the way he asked for it, how his cheeks immediately heats up and madly flushes red. But, he's determined to keep his gaze on her, even if every fiber of his being want to turn his head away from her.]
no subject
He's such a grump...but he's sweet. He's so stubborn...but willing to be patient with her. He's not human...but why does that matter? He won't let her do everything she wants...but the constant battle against him has led to some growth and understanding. Everything she thinks she wants, he finds some way to prove she wants the opposite, simply by being him.
Some of the chill that'd settled on her dissipates when he squeezes her hand back, a chill that had nothing to do with wearing only towels. She sighs in relief. Their bridge was mending. Or so she hopes. ]
Mm. There you are. [ Her small smile is just as warm once he stops hiding behind his mask. ] Nice to see you again.
[ If his request is pathetic, oh well. That'd mean she was pathetic for wanting the same. The fact that he asked, though? It's something special. And it really means something, the way he keeps his eyes on hers, no matter how embarrassed he seems to look.
There's hardly any hesitation. She lightly tugs on his hand, pulling them together then wrapping her arms around him. As she squeezes him, a wall she's kept up creaks and cracks. Her eyes close as she fights for her barrier to remain in place. ]
I'll give you a hug later, too. [ The real him, she means. ] And I'm--I'm--
[ The wall crumbles a little more. ]
Thank you. A-And. I'm... [ Was that a sniffle? ] I'm sorry.
[ She could hardly get the apology out, barely above a whisper, but...she did it. She let a wall fall, just for him. ]
no subject
A strong swirl of emotions burst inside him in the hug. But unlike in the elevator, it's... a lot clearer to him. Nothing but positive emotions. Happiness, joy, and love... Or at least, he recognizes it as platonic kind of love rather.
It.. isn't odd for him to feel this many emotions at once and feel them so strongly towards a friend. Normally, Soundwave would never show himself so vulnerable so often, and he wouldn't think that he would with someone he met for less than a day. But... here he is. Hugging Monika. Squeezing Monika. Holding Monika close. Part of it is that he's touch-starved, affection-starved, but it's undeniably nice, having someone you trusted and cared so much you could allow a moment of vulnerability. To not worry about anything and only think about the comfort of each other's presence and warmth.
Hell, he even looks forward to when she'll hug him, which had him chuckling lightly when she said it. Looking forward to a hug? It's unbecoming of him, but...
His own icy exterior melts away, just for her.
Her apology was barely above a whisper, but to Soundwave? He hears her loud and clear, but what is more important is that he can hear the sincerity in her voice. That is all that matters to him, and he doesn't need any more from her.
That said, the apology makes him shake slightly, holding himself back. As an empath, he can feel the emotions coming from her, but in a moment of vulnerability? He doesn't just feel them but is also affected by them. That, and the embrace makes him crumble. He's not a crier, but.... He finally lets a tear roll down his cheek, before he presses his face to rest on her shoulder. It's not a sad tear, but one of happiness instead.]
It's okay. [His own voice is a whisper. His hand moves in slow circles on her back in a comforting rub, and the the other hand moves up to pat the back of her head.] It's okay, Monika.
[Their bridge is mended. She can let it all out.]
no subject
His words pull her further into turmoil. Where's his mask when she needs it? Anything to hide her face and recoil from the truth. ]
N-No. [ And she actually sounds a little scared. ] Don't say it's okay. You'll just--
[ Another sniffle sneaks out, and another. This level of caring about her well-being is too much. It wasn't something she was meant to have. Not from him, right? Right?
Monika trembles against him, clutching him tighter. She doesn't deserve this, but she wants it. ]
Please, don't look at m-me when I'm like this...
[ Don't see her being so vulnerable, and, unbeknownst to her, feel her being that way, which would only make her crumble further if she did know. Please, don't witness her being so obviously weak. ]
no subject
Perhaps, without his empath powers, he would actually do as said and pulled back, but... This feeling of want from her is strong, and he too wants the same. It doesn't matter if she thinks she doesn't deserved it, because he believes otherwise. So he isn't letting go nor will he stop saying those caring words to her.]
It's okay, Monika. Do not worry.
[His embrace tightens, trying his best to not tremble himself but failing to do so. His hands rub and pat at her.]
I am... I am here for you.
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)