Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Not that much time has passed since the TV was first brought home by Asgore, as their first step on their own place for their own family, and that started very soon. Since then, Tenna kept company for the whole journey: Asriel's favorite cartoons as a baby, his first steps, Toriel looking for human shows when Kris first showed up in an attempt to understand them more. He was a part of the family at this point. And as such, he was also present for the numerous visits by the Holidays. If only he knew how things would change with one of those visits.

Noelle and Kris were excited to bring this laptop home. Tenna had no idea what a "laptop" meant but if they were happy, he was happy. Well, as long as they don't forget about him, of course. This looked harmless, until he showed up, out of nowhere. Like a little, disgusting rat coming from the sewer.

That weird, white figure, with sunglasses and palpable arrogance just walked in and asserted himself like he was the most important thing that ever put a foot down there.

— ARE YOU [[tired of]] LIVING IN THIS [[$4.99]] OUTDATED TV WORLD?? I HAVE A [[very, very specil deal]] FOR YOU FROM THE [[Number 1 Rated Salesman]] — The small thing advertised with pride.

Tenna scoffed for himself in his mind. He looked to the side and saw Mike looking at the annoying guy. So obviously, he went very calmly, in a very nonchalant tone, and asked him what he knew about him.

— MIKE!! My guy!! My favorite, FAVORITE, employee, my star! How are you doing on this beautiful day?? — He said, smiling. There’s no need for anyone to notice how irritated he was about this very insignificant new darkner after all. Sure, he was very clearly grinning his teeth and visibly displeased. But you know. In a very nonchalant way. — Can you PLEASE do me a favor?

Spamton, like every Addison, always saw deals as the ultimate way to do anything. Especially in relationships. After all, why would you be vulnerable for someone if not for getting something back. That’s why he felt so ready when that phone ranged for the first time. He went from the smaller, most unlucky and ignored Addison to a gigantic rise of deals, opportunities and recognition. And talking about opportunities, the antlered girl and the human with red plastic horns brought the Cyber’s World laptop home.

The idea was to use this new Dark World to make new deals. But that bitchy CRT couldn’t take someone sharing his spotlight.

He was trying to advertise, looking for someone as the best salesman in the whole world. He knew a whole lot of things no one else would be able to know. A little helping hand from what he saw as God himself. And he, of course, was ready to use it to his advantage. But suddenly, for a brief moment everything went completely dark, just to a very bright spotlight to shine right above him. Before he was able to react or process anything, a whole TV set lit up.

— “WELCOME BACK, CADOOS AND CADETTES, to yours truly, and only, MR. TENNA’S TALK SHOW, with a VERY SPECIAL NEW GUEST!!!! Directly from that internship thingy the new folks keep talking about, the guy who went all over from Cyber City!! The one and only…” — The giant TV head announced, looking at Spamton waiting for him to introduce himself. But he was not the best at getting subtle clues. — “(Psst, your name?)” — He whispered, as he reached for a hand shake.

— “SPAMTON”. — He shakes his hand, having no idea of what the heck is going on — SP4MTON G. SPAMTON. VERY [pleased] TO PARTICIPATE!!

— “Now, now, since we’ve been properly introduced, I have some questions for YOU. You know, as an interview to get to know you better, Mr. Future Guy!!” — He spitted the last words in a subtle, bitter sarcasm. The kind that gets over the watcher’s head but noticeable enough to Spamton understand he’s in enemy’s territory, which is not that unusual for Spamton anyway. — So as our FIRST QUESTION: why would anyone use a computer if you can have EVERYTHING from a TV??

— Ok big guy, I guess I really did stroke a nerve, huh? — Spamton answered. Tenna looked like a feral and hurt cat. Despite his size, it’s noticeable how he’s way more fragile than he looks. — Can we, huh, talk about this in private?

And then, he woke up. 

Sometimes, when he sleeps, his screen shows memories, flashbacks or just reruns of some movies. Most of the time he doesn’t remember what he dreamed but he was well aware that waking up in this bittersweet taste of nostalgia and grief in his mouth was a big sign of dreaming about him.

Tenna got up. He was in Castle Town, in a small TV-themed room. Ok, it wasn’t really that small but too small for him. But somehow, it also felt bigger than it looked. Probably for being all alone after being around people for so much time. He grunted, going after something to distract his mind from the ache in his heart for remembering something that used to be so fond and now so painful. But there was nothing he could do to change this. So he got ready to get some coffee at the Town’s Cafe. 

After some very careful shower — so he wouldn’t hurt his still-in-recovery arms — he grabbed his very recognizable red suit. Not that he WANTED to grab attention after how hard he crashed out the last days but hiding wouldn’t help either. While putting it on, he heard a weird noise, like a rodent caught messing around in stuff. He was pretty sure he heard steps. 

Tenna walked very slowly to check the surroundings trying to understand where the sound came from. “Oh, I REALLY need some coffee.” He thought to himself. “Right, Mike— ?”

Oh. Right. No Mike anymore. It's okay. That's completely okay. I'm going to get used to it.

Not being able to find the source of the sound, he decided to just ignore it. He did hear something again but probably just his mind again. He left the room, a little confused if he wanted to have some attention from his former employees to see him and talk or go completely unnoticed out of embarrassment. Maybe if he got to the Cafe fast enough he wouldn’t need to find out. 

He got there, ordered and went back with his coffee as fast as he could. Some other day he wouldn’t mind talking to Swatch, reminiscing about the old days, and having some small talk, but today he just was feeling too glooby for that, at least right now. Maybe later.

However, it was like this decision was more of a sign, as he encountered a small, white creature with a black and dirty blazer by his door. He wasn’t sure if the creature was entering or leaving the house but not that it matters since that wasn’t their house anyway. 

— YOU THERE! — Tenna shouted trying to get this thing’s attention. Ok, maybe he didn’t need to shout in such a mean way. It could be a fan after all. 

That was his thought process, until he saw the weird darkner holding a blue chirping orb.

— WHA- HOW- WHERE DO YOU THINK YOU GOING WITH THIS??!! — Tenna shouted and run in the direction of the intruder, who was so startled that visibly freaked out, not knowing if they should run away, go back inside or just give the blue egg back. This gave Tenna enough time so he could get there in time to grab the egg with one hand, carefully, and the invasor with the other, in a way more tight and aggressive manner before it could run away. 

Of course it is the creature that tried to approach his small blue darling earlier. You would think being completely covered in foam would give this thing a lesson. 

— I won't repeat myself. What. Are. You. Doing. Here. 

———————————————————————

Sometimes it’s hard for Spamton to grasp how fucking stupid AND stubborn Tenna could be.

Sure, he didn’t recognize him. That’s fine. Not like he could recognize himself either. But does he really think anyone else that is not Spamton would give a damn about this Pipis? Or Pipis in general?? 

While grabbed by Tenna’s gigantic hand, he was panicking trying to explain himself in a way he wouldn’t be attacked by foam again or even completely smashed by his claws. He needed to be quick.

— IF IT ISN'T MY [ol’ pal] [Mr. Ant. Tenna]!!1 [Long time, no see], HUH?? — He opened one of his arms as the other was caught by the CRT’s grips. — WHAT, NEVER SAW A [specil][comeback episode] BEFORE??!

The TV looked in a mix of anger and confusion. — You still didn’t answer me. What. Do you. Want. With HER?! - He said the last words while gesturing with his head at the pipis, using the opportunity to put her in his chest pocket, safely. 

— CAN’T A [[father of 2]] LOOK OUT FOR HIS [Kids]??! — He replied while struggling to get a way out and not break completely. He was more focused in not dying than his words actually. — IF [I gave you] MY [[pipis]] I SHOULD AT LEAST [See it] FOR [$!$!] SAKE!!

— Give me? But you’re not- You CAN’T be.. — he loosened his hand in confusion, trying to take a grasp of his words. Unfortunately it didn’t last long. — Wha- but WHY were you going to STEAL it??! Who even ARE YOU!?

There was no other way to reason with him right now so he was left with only one option.

Spamton grabbed the CRT’s finger and bit it as hard as he could, the plastic teeth collapsing with the soft gloves as Tenna shouted a really loud yell, throwing the small puppet away instinctively. It wasn’t the hardest he ever hitted the ground before but it didn’t hurt any less. Even if the floor was softer than he was imagining.

A similar feeling struck the small darkner for a simpler time while he lost consciousness. 

It was the late 90s, and he drank way too much battery acid. While talking, very drunk, he remembers misstepping and almost falling, being saved by a soft, big, white glove.

— Hey, Spammy, watch out — a much brighter and happier drunk old TV said, while catching him. He was always a big guy but drinking made him extra happy and also extra large. — Maybe we exaggerated this time juuust a little bit. — He chuckled.

— I'm fine! Never felt BETTERRRR achsually. — He never drank so much like that night. And for a good reason: the audience of Spamton’s ‘n Tenna’s TV Time was skyrocketing specially since the last episode, where Tenna interviewed Spamton again like their first meeting. The Cungaderos sales were greenlit and the two darkners couldn’t be closer. At least as close as Spamton was allowed to be, anyway.

— Ooook, ooook, if you say so! But we reaally should get going. — Replied the slightly-not-as-drunk bigger darkner, his screen warm in a cartoonish tone of pink. — But don’t even think on driving, I’ll call Mike to bring us. I know you’re jealous of your Cungadero, but we’re both too drunk.

The small mail guy was unsatisfied by it but was too tired to protest, falling asleep while murmuring something. Next thing he remembers was waking up in Tenna’s bed, with the gameshow host lying just beside him, “sleeping”. He could feel the screen static too well for him to be actually sleeping. He knew he was watching him sleep.

It’s a little funny how even if a lot changes, it also doesn’t change that much.

Spamton opened his eyes, still a little dazed from the fall and a big headache, in Tenna’s bed again, this time trapped in a giant gachapon. He could hear Tenna talking to another familiar darkner.

— Soooo happy to see you, my number one fluffy boy!! Did you bring me the little favor I asked?? — Said Tenna in a little fake sympathy voice.

— Y-Yeah, I'm just a bit confused as to why you would need a bird cage? Did you adopt a little bird-like darkner? — The familiar voice looked like Ralsei, a little confused but trying to help, with a little bird cage in hand. The big old guy was planning to try and trap me so I can speak up but for his misfortune, I'm way too used to being trapped and nothing is stopping me from my freedom.

— You… could say that, yes. — Tenna cleaned his throat. He was a terrible liar.

— Well, where do you want me to put… — He made eye contact with Spamton, slowly getting away from the not-very-well-closed box, not really getting what was happening but too aware of what he needed to do.

He could almost see the prince's face in “what would Susie and Kris do??!” thoughts crossing his mind. And based on the goat-like darkner reaction, it was pretty much exactly his thought.

— Hey, Tenna, isn’t that Mike calling you right there?? — He pointed outdoors. This is stupid. Of course Tenna wouldn’t—

— Wait, really?! — He looked in the direction like a dog hearing a squirrel, looking for Mike. Of course it worked. 

Ralsei went as fast as he could to help free the small salesman, opening the gachapon for him. Not sure if for genuine concern to understand what happened or just because he was useful to the lightners. Either way, he was free now.

— So, did you go away by yourself like that time? In the TV World? But wasn’t able to go back? Please be honest. — The fluffy guy spoke almost in a concerned tone. It was kinda hard to tell when he was being genuine or putting on a facade so he doesn’t have problems with the lightners later. Not that Spamton cared, though.

— ….NO — He lied. It wasn’t fully a lie, sure, but he being out of the inventory wasn’t exactly accidental.

— Oh, okay. Well, you can become the Dealmaker again so I — Ralsei was quickly interrupted 

— LISTEN [toothpaste boy], I CAN [deal] WITH THIS SITUATION, JUST GIVE ME SOME [necessary time to cook] SO I CAN REACH YOU MYSELF. OR DIRECTLY TO THE [little sponge] EVEN.

— What are you… — he breathed deeply. — This somehow has to do with Susie and Kris helping you with Tenna, isn’t it? I think I heard them whispering about something related.

The puppet nodded. Ralsei sighed, with a mix of a soft and worried expression

— Just… be careful, okay? 

And the goat prince went away, the salesmen barely heard his voice talking with Tenna again with another excuse to make the earlier distraction less suspicious. 

But Spamton wasn’t really caring about this at that moment. He used the opportunity to go back on the mission he was trying to do before he was caught: see his daughter, who he thought was long gone, and if Tenna kept anything from his and their past.

In a slightly hidden place of his bedroom, in a closet, was the small pipis, back to where they were in the first place. Spamton wasn’t really attached to every pipis, but there was… something special about it. The way it was tweeting in some tender way when Spamton was close, and chirping nervously when separated. And what made him even more fond of the little thing was the symbolism of it. It meant that Tenna still cared enough about what they had to keep it. He could’ve discarded it, done anything, forgot about it, but no. All this time, he kept this small little reminder of their past. 

If only he could be able to appreciate it without needing to run for his life every time he got near it. Near her. 

Spamton took the pipis, carefully, into his arms. The warmth and fuzziness took him. He never saw himself as a father, more like the weird but cool uncle. But of course the stupid CRT was able to make him feel… different.

He took from his pocket a small engagement ring, with his name engraved on it. One side of him really wanted to have been able to sell it and never look back at it, but guess there weren't many others “Spamton G. Spamton” interested in an engagement ring for a business partner. But now… if Tenna could keep the pipis, maybe he’s a little happy he could keep the ring. And relieved for not being the only one to still cling for something from the past.

Still with a lot of headache, he reached to the bed, placing the pipis carefully in it and holding it in a warm, gentle hug, like trying to hatch it. With the ring in his hand, he closed his eyes, reminiscing about what could be different. His mind goes to a place in his past as his way too exhausted drifted off. To a moment after his first interview.

...

…

...

— I can't believe we started with such a grudge as a start!! If you had told me you knew Queen a lot would be way easier, you know??

— HAHEAHAH Don’t worry, [big] guy. – The not-an-addison salesmen laughed. – Well, I hope I didn’t make you [freak out!][freak out!] by talking about the Internet and tech. 

— …Naahh, it’s fine. It’s not like there’s anything that could be better than TV! – The CRT laughed, a little nervously. – …Oh, how am I fooling. I do feel a little scared of this laptop and internet thing making the ligthners go away from me and leave me behind. Pretty stupid, huh? Maybe I just shouldn’t think about this. 

Tenna looked down, trying to keep a smile but visibly worried. It’s not like he didn’t think about it before in the past. He just hoped that ignoring this thoughts would make the fear go away.

– If only there were a way…  – The TV whispered, more for himself than anything. At that moment, it was like a lightbulb lights up in both darkners mind.

– So… what if there’s a way? — Spamton says, taking the risk. – I can help you keep updated on tech, if you give me your spotlight and opportunities. Deal?

The TV host shakes the salesman's hand almost at the same time the deal was said. Like they both had the same plan from the start.

– Deal! – He smiled. As he shaked the smaller hand with crossed fingers on his back, Tenna kept thinking ‘I can’t believe he said it first. That way I can use him to keep me on top, barely let him in my spotlight as soon as I get what I want and discard him. Gotta use this guy’s opportunities then.’

– Well, guess I’ll see you tomorrow to plan the details then! – Said Spamton. He kept thinking ‘This stupid old TV went from my trap like flies going to light and it’s the perfect opportunity to use him to become a big shot. It’s not like they’ll know if I’m keeping them truly updated or not and I can discard him as soon as I get what I want. Such a genius, Spamton, such a genius.’

What both of them didn’t know was they were lying more to themselves than to the other, as none of them would be capable of discarding the other. Which they would notice only way too late, in the present, drowned in regrets for letting a deal take so much space on both’s darkners [Heart-Shaped Object]. 

Chapter Text

— Lanino! Elnina! — Tenna approached the duo, wearing a happy but somewhat awkward smile — Are you guys, uh… free? Right now? I kinda… need some… love advice?

The couple looked at each other slightly confused. Then, Lanina answered:

— ‘F course! What gives? 

— So… — He sat on the Green Room’s couch, shyly. — There’s this person I met recently…

The weather couple looked at each other, like they knew where this was going. But Tenna wasn’t really paying attention.

– So, he… – Tenna cleaned his throat – I mean, they’re a little different, we both are from very different worlds… metaphorically. Of course. But isn’t it like those romance movies? I mean, they do say opposites do attract each other, haha!!

The CRT was really nervous. It’s not the first time he met someone from a different world like this, as he was familiar with the Queen and the Chaos King, and had a lot of fun with them. But, there was something about this mail guy that just… felt different. He matched his energy in a way he never saw, almost like defying him. That guy was aware that Tenna needed him to keep TV Time working almost as most as he needed Tenna to keep his spotlight. 

Hell, maybe he knew Tenna was the one who was needing the other more and wasn’t afraid of taking risks. 

— …But I don’t know how I should work these feelings out…? I mean, I'm still his-… – His tongue kept on slipping, almost like he could see the salesman image in such high quality it was too hard to talk in anonymity. —Their boss at the end of the day and I… don’t want to ruin it. Maybe it’s one-sided and… I don’t know. But he’s so… he’s…

He closed his mouth fast as he noticed the emotions flooding him and letting him slip way more than it should. Time to backtrack, fast. 

— O-Of course, since it’s an employee I reeeally SHOULDN’T talk about who this person is or it could have some weeeird climate, right..? –

The couple exchanged glances again, the air thick with that “knew it” kind of silence. This time, Tenna noticed.

— Boss, we know you’re in love with Spamton. — They said it so flatly it almost echoed.

— Huh??! ME?! Me in lo- with Spa- WHA- HA HA HA, NOOOOooooOOoO, I just— he cleared his throat, awkwardly, with a cartoony blush in his static face. — Was… was it SO obvious?

— I mean, we’re not judging, it’s just… — Lanino tried to explain, while Elnina fought back a laugh — …yeah, it was that obvious. It’s printed all over your face. 

— We didn’t even know it was supposed to be a secret, with the way your antennas form a little heart on your head when you call him — the cloud girl went on, giggling — or the way your screen turns this silly shade of pink like a cartoon! It’s almost like you’d have those big heart eyes if you had those! It’s just so sunny and bright!

— Yeah, as long as you don’t forget he’s an addison and everything, I’m sure you’ll have no hurricanes!  – Lanino said first, thought second.

The smile vanished from Elnina’s face. Tenna froze.

— Wha… What do you mean by that? — He tried to smile, but it came out stiff and shaky.

— You know, just… take care? I mean, all addisons do is advertise — they themselves say it — and an addison that came out of nowhere? What if he just…

— Congrats, honey, you just killed a good climate. — Elnina snapped, arms crossed. — Not to rain on your parade, but Tenna’s an adult. I think they can take care of themselves.

While lost in thought, Tenna felt his body flicker—edges blurring, color dulling. He was shrinking again. Smaller, smaller, like he was sinking in the floor, about to drown.

— H-Hey, it’s not a bad thing, boss! Don’t be like that! — Lanino rushed to fix it. — I’m just worried!! It’s a weird forecast, you know? Anything can happen, we just—

We?

– We?? Don’t put me in your team! – Lanina shouted.

— But you did agree with me that day!! — Lanino shot back, louder now. — Maybe he just wants to use Tenna, and you were the one who said how NAIVE he is!!

He slapped both hands over his mouth instantly. The argument froze midair.
Tenna, now barely taller than their knees, looked up at them with static eyes wide and trembling.

– Tenna, I didn’t mean to...

He didn’t stay to hear the rest. The sound blurred, and then he ran.

Show's over.

—------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In his dressing room, Spamton felt a weird, warm, almost itchy and burning sensation all over his face. He overheard all of it, by accident, his grip holding with so much anger his hands started to twitch.

HAH!!

What a joke.

Yeah, of course.

Don’t trust the addison. Good advice.

The problem is—I’ve never been one. They NEVER saw me as one.

Spamton slammed the wall with all his fury. For his luck, those walls were very resistant and it wasn’t loud enough for the weather forecasters to hear.

Speaking of loud. They really need to be this loud while talking about me in my back, right?

Just like those damn [sloppy sams] calling me [Bad for business], all over again!! I’l show THE;M I’LL [show] ILL [showtime!!] 

He glitched, like a shock all over his body, the glitching noises all over his head, humming and bugging in full volume, the overstimulation flooding all of his senses. The neon colors, the sounds, everything all at once, the feeling of his body ripping apart even if it wasn’t really. The glitch hit like a live wire through his skull—buzzing, humming, chewing at his senses until every pixel screamed.

He forced a breath. Rage only made it all louder.

….So, Tenna having a crush on him, huh?

Somehow, this was… a great opportunity. Heaven really did keep handing him golden chances, didn’t it? If he played it right, he could stay on top no matter what. Tenna would need him even more. He’d have this guy eating from his hand—if those stupid weather forecasters didn’t get in the way.

Sure, maybe it made him sound like a [hooker]. A [fame-fucker].
Whatever.
If that’s the price of being a [BIG SHOT], he’d pay it.
They’d already decided who he was anyway. Might just give them the reason they were looking for then. 

He reached for his cigarettes. The room still felt too small, the air too thick. Ramb’s bar would do. A drink, a smoke—anything before he did something stupid. He just need to “borrow” something, quick

Too bad he wasn’t the only one headed there.

Tenna was in the now closed Ramb’s bar, all alone, small, like he’s contemplating drinking or not since they still have another full day tomorrow and not really good to have TV time with a hangover host. 

– Hey, big guy. Well, not so big today, huh? – As soon as he opened his mouth, Spamton remembered why he needed an other-wordly weird being to talk on his behalf. That was ass.

– Oh. Spam. – His whole body went stiff. Nothing worse than yearning for someone and they show up right after. I didn’t want him to see me in such a pathetic way, I need to fix things, fast., he thought, trying to fix his posture and put on a fake smile. – I was just… thinking… about our next show tomorrow, that’s all. Maybe the stress made me shrink a little, ha ha.

If Spamton and Tenna agreed on something it was this: Tenna’s a horrible liar. 

– Really? Well, don’t mind if I join you, then. – Spamton sat down, dangerously close. He was sweating from head to toes, but trying to keep his posture. He was still a little angry, but it was the worst moment to show any sign of weakness. Being this close makes him wonder… was Tenna always this… attractive? 

No. Stop it. Focus. He’ll leave you as soon as you get in his way.

– Do you want something special to help you relax? – He continued, looking at Tenna. The way he said it, with how close he was sitting and the sudden situation made Tenna shiver in static, feeling his screen warm. But before his thoughts went in another direction and finally looked to him, Spamton handed the TV a cigarette, right after lighting his own, already in the addison’s mouth. – Here, take it. And thank me later, ‘kay? I don’t usually share these. 

For a second, Tenna thought this was going in a different way. Maybe his mind was already going insane from yearning. But what the hell, sure. He took a drag on the cigarette, trying not to think a lot. 

– Sorry for… looking so glooby in front of you like this. – He chuckled, looking at his hands. – You should be resting for tomorrow, not trying to cheer up your boss, haha… I’m sorry.

The last words felt heavily sincere and , especially, hurt. Like he was on the verge of tears, barely holding back. Spamton almost flinched, looking at him surprised. He never saw Tenna like this, not this vulnerable. Actually, maybe he never saw someone being so vulnerable near him ever. He’s from a lifestyle where showing weakness is your one-way ticket to hell. The way he looked was, mostly, stupid, like a fragile little sad bug. But somehow… he looked… also really hot with his cigarette in hand with this stupid wet cat look.

Fuck it. I need some booze. I’m getting distracted.  

 – Hey, why don’t we drink something, just the two of us? Having some of those always help me in times like this – Like he was predicting Tenna’s follow up words of protest, Spamton interrupted as soon as the CRT opened his mouth — I know. I know. Full day tomorrow. I know, but relax. Just for today, you and me. And it’s not like we are drinking to get wasted, just some sips.

– Fine, you win. – He let out the smoke in a worried, but defeated sigh. He’s defeated not only for doing something like this he would never do, but here he was, seeing this small darkner getting drinks for both of them. At this rate, there’s no point in fighting it anyway. While he accepted his fate, he took another drag. 

Spamton grabbed the first alcoholic bottle he found and took an immediate sip. He really needed some encouragement at that moment, as he was feeling way too many things to think straight. As soon as he felt the alcohol in his body, he served two cups and sat back next to Tenna again, with his heart beating so fast he could almost feel it going out of his mouth.

– You know, I’m well aware I was kind of a prick when we first met, okay? But… I do admire you and all this stuff you build. – Maybe opening up as well would help for a chance to get to him. Just to get to his goal, nothing more. He took a drag and released it, to then look at Tenna. The tears were already falling off his screen, in some sort of static, while the CRT looked down still. 

They both were frozen in place. Both tense, vulnerable and scary, in complete silence and almost stopping breathing. Like every little sound would break the tension and break both of them in the process. 

Spamton flinched when he saw the tears. He was confused, and somewhat concerned. Did he say something wrong? Was he being too much? Maybe this was all a horrible decision.

He took another sip.

– Well, maybe it’s better if I go already. – He said in a very low tone of voice, almost if he didn’t want to be heard, but knew going away in silence would be worse. But before he got up, Tenna finally spoke again.

– Please. – His voice felt weak, very different from the way his voice took the whole room. Right now, his voice felt… small. – Stay, just a minute.

And Spamton went back to his seat without a word.

Tenna took a sip of his cup and Spamton finished his cigarette, going after his cup again. This is the worst moment to have his hands empty.

The TV’s humming was the only sound between them. The salesmen could only feel regret for what he started. He probably took it way too far. No – anything counts. Stop being a coward. Do something.

– You think I’m weak, don’t you? 

Tenna’s soft, sad voice cut the silence, suddenly, before Spamton could do anything. 

Yes. I do.

But even seeing you so weak and open like this, makes me wonder if I’m the weaker one here.

– Wha… Why would I? – Spamton replied, slightly trembling. He’s not that good at lying when there’s not an unknown force choosing words for him.

– I have a whole Dark World for myself, a whole show, a family of Lightners that I love and that loves me but still feel like a fraud. Like I could lose it all in the blink of an eye. – He raised his head slightly. – So when you went here, talking about the future I was so… afraid. Of losing everything.  I… I was so angry I wanted to destroy you, I wanted to make you regret everything you said.

Yeah, yeah. Get in line.

– But somehow… – He took a long drag onto his cigarette, releasing it very slowly. – I had so much fun talking to you, working with you. You’re the first person to defy me like this and it sure makes me feel angry and scared but also… amazed, in some way. 

Tenna was holding the cigarette, lost in his thoughts. Like his head was thinking about everything and nothing at the same time. Spamton was still frozen in place, not knowing what to say or even what to think, just taking it. Not out of choice but more out of the lack of. 

Amazed.

That’s a new one.

I could almost believe you if I didn’t know you are going to discard me like everyone else always does sooner or later if I don’t take control. 

– Sorry, I’m just rambling here, haha. – He left out a sad chuckle, trying to break the ice, unsuccessful. – I just… wondered if you ever felt something like this. But of course not, you’re a big shot, you’re the future and everything. I’m just… 

– I do. – He interrupted, like the words came first than any thought. – I’m a big shot now but I… wasn’t always like this. I heard a lot of people doubting me, calling me a fraud and all. So I do get it.

The silence took over the room again. They were both surprised. One was surprised to learn of someone with the same dread feelings and the other surprised for even having said it. 

They shared looks, too quiet but with a palpable tension between them. 

Is this… The opportunity I was asking for… ?

Spamton came closer. Tenna, still smaller than usual from earlier, was just slightly taller than his co-host at the moment. 

It’s for convenience. To keep his position on top, and only that.  

That was a lie and he was aware of it. But maybe if he ignored that, he could pretend it was still true.

– …You heard it, right? – Tenna spoke, very softly, still looking at Spamton. – About that conversation with Lanino and Elnina. 

Spamton froze in place, feeling like a rat caught in its trap. Any movement would give away too much. But not moving would also say a lot.

– You heard me talking about my feelings, about getting closer in an attempt to use me, to manipulate me. Do you think I’m this stupid and naive like that as well? – His expression was completely blank, the screen completely off. Spamton had no idea what was going on in his mind. But Tenna also barely could understand his mind himself. – You really thought I was going to just let you? Like I can’t see what you’re doing?

There was nothing Spamton could say to defend himself.

 For his luck, it wasn’t needed.

– Yeah, you’re right. I am. – Tenna grabbed Spamton by his tie to pull him even closer, his lips meeting with the screen ones from the CRT, his other hand carefully holding his neck. Like a puzzle, both of their lips just felt right together.

At that moment, it was just them. There was nothing else to think about or worry about. No deals, lies, advice, betrayal, no show, not a single spotlight. Just both tasting each other’s beverages, static, cigarettes, all mixed up. Spamton, tense for a second, felt his whole body melt, reciprocating the kiss fondly, still with his heart beating up like he was running from a predator but it didn’t matter now. He was caught. And for the first time, he was okay with it. 

Spamton, finally tensing down, embraced the other, one of his hands caressing the screen while feeling the static in his fingers, the other in the back. He could feel his breath slowing down and hated to admit that his own breath was also syncing with it. The awkwardness and tension from before going away with the smell of smoke, like nothing happened before the kiss and like nothing in the future awaited for them after. It was just them, at this moment. They both weren’t sure how much time this took given how intense both of them were feeling. Actually, it was so intense that Spamton could feel Tenna’s back growing beneath his hands, the CRT’s body literally swelling, emotions too big for his frame to hold.

Not only that. His lips felt bigger, stronger, like they were slowly pressuring his own. 

Wait. Is this…

Oh no. Oh no no no no, fuck.

I really wish this was easier to manage. 

Tenna was getting back to his usual size, the happiness and relief from the moment making him get bigger again. The problem is that the person he was kissing wasn’t changing his size and was pressuring him so much he could be close to being smashed to death. He let go quickly so it didn’t get even worse.

Spamton was almost falling to the ground, face completely red. From the kiss or being out of air? Not even he knows, not like he would admit to any of those options.

– A-Are you okay?

– …Did you… fucking… tried to… kill me…? – Spamton said, mildly irritated, catching on his breath. Tenna laughed, for real this time. – What??!! You… You think it’s FUNNY?! You could have… KILLED ME there!!

– Hahahah, it’s just – He tried to make the laugh go away, not very well. – You’re SO annoying. 

– What? Me?? YOU’RE the one who kissed me, damn it. – He tried to adjust himself, still feeling light-headed. Now that he could breath a little better, he was sure this feeling on his head was more from the kiss than losing his breath. But he could still ignore this thought, for now. – You’re the annoying one, calling me a manipulator and pulling me like that just after.

– Well. You can correct me if you want now. – Tenna teased, with a cocky smile. – Come on, defend yourself.

It 's okay. I can take it. I wanted to use you as well, so I can’t judge.

– Oh, and I am going to. – Spamton jumped, grabbing Tenna’s tie with both hands, forcing him to bend to the addison’s height again, just to press his lips against the screen again. Part of it to shut the CRT up. The other part… was one that the salesman was not going to let himself admit. 

He just needed to feel it again. The feeling of ease. Of being caught, melting in his touch again, feeling the static while he kept at it. This time it was short, but equally as intense. At least he could have some control this time.

– Just a little taste of your own medicine – He says as soon as he stops the kissing with a giant grin on his face.

– Oh, shut up – Tenna said as he resumed the kiss, not ready to let go yet.

The whole night ended in this push or pull, tasting each other, feeling the other’s touch. They both don’t remember when or how this all ended, just getting woken up by Ramb as he was ready to open the bar and gift shop again by the morning.

“I guess everything worked out in the end, huh?” Elnina whispered to a barely-awake Tenna.

You’re right.

I guess everything worked out.

…Right?

The memories of such a regretful moment flooded Spamton in a cringe feeling as he woke up. How could he hate this stupid TV for so many years and fold so, so easily. But thanks [heaven] he was awaken again by this torture, as he could hear footsteps by the door. It wasn't Tenna yet, but a purple dino-like girl and human, holding one cake in their hands

— Hey weird guy. Don't hide, we have a gift to show you — Susie entered the room already taking all the space, Kris behind her while holding a heart-shaped cake with a very messy writing on the top that reads "congratsz on the divorce" with some crooked drawings of Tenna with a blurred frown, that used to be a smile but they visibly forgot the theme of the cake and tried to fix it poorly, with a also very messy drawing of Spamton by his side. Kris looked like holding their laugh, anticipating Spamton's reaction.

— Pretty cool, huh? Ralsei made the cake, and I wrote it and Kris did the drawings. We, uh, wanted to do something to cheer you up after that encounter last night when you came out of the inventory.

At that moment, he wishes it was Tenna coming back to kill him again instead of this nightmare. Slightly. 

— What with this face? Look, if you don’t want it, we’ll eat and ask Ralsei to call Tenna back, whatever man. We just wanted to help

— WHAT? [[F1 for Help]]?? Y ?

— Because you’re the most divorced man in history. – Kris finally spoke. 

— Dude, it’s your TV who’s he divorced from. — Susie gave Kris a soft punch in their arms, jokingly — This is kinda your fault too. 

Spamton kept on remembering the last time he tried to reach out to Tenna back on TV World. 

‘[Trash heap]!!! YOU KEPT IT!!! YOU REALLY DO CARE!!! ‘

Yeah, no. He’s not doing that again.

– I mean, it’s not like we’re love advisors or anything but you know. – Susie scratched her hair, trying to make it less weird from the divorce comment. – I know we don’t really know each other but if Kris is your friend then I guess we can be friends too, and friends help each other, right?

Friends help each other, huh.

This feels familiar.

— C’mon, I know we both aren't super good at this but I think you both would be needing a lot of love advice. – She said with a huge smile, shining with thoughtless, but not less bright, hope. Kris by her side giving him a thumbs up in encouragement.

Here he was, about to accept love advice from two teenagers. Maybe it’s not so bad, if it gives a chance to change this mess. 

Maybe he can trust a friend’s advice again.

Chapter Text

He never really liked smoking.

He doesn’t hate smoking either, it’s just that he was always focused more on performing, on entertaining and making the Dreemurs happy.

Anything that he did that didn’t matter for their happiness just simply wasn’t important to Tenna. 

That until he met him.

‘Here, take it. And thank me later, ‘kay? I don’t usually share these.’ As he would say, handing Tenna the same cigarette packing he would later grow fond of.

‘Hey, why don’t we drink something, just the two of us? I know, but relax. Just for today, you and me. And it’s not like we are drinking to get wasted, just some sips.’ How he was the only one who could make Tenna prioritize himself over being just useful for the Lightners , even if not from the best way possible. ‘Who cares, anyway?’ is probably something he would always say

‘It’s called a Pipis. It 's not an egg. Don’t call it that. … Okay, maybe I can let it slide for you.’ As he holds the small, blue orb carefully given from the small mailman's hands to the bigger TV hands, receiving this gift like it is the most precious thing he ever saw in his life. Mostly because it was.

Meeting someone with so much confidence and this carelessness about what people think of him did change a lot how he viewed the world. He wanted to show him how he admired him for that. 

Now all that was left behind was smoking the same brand he used to smoke, purely for the nostalgia of feeling that taste again after all these years, with the memories carried by the smell of that cheap, low-quality and bittersweet smoke coming out of his mouth, bringing him back to the times that he could taste it in his lips after a "Break a leg there" kiss right before they both went on air.

‘Good luck there, super star’

As he finished another puff, he felt very tiny hands touching his back, carefully and softly, making him go back to the present and remember where he was: in a hidden balcony, in Castle Town’s Castle, somewhat near his room. That’s the only place he knew that was usually silent and empty in the very crowded town. He usually wasn’t the kind of person to isolate himself, but he also didn’t want anyone to see him like this. Not that a lot of the people who knew him didn’t ever see him like that in the past, but he still felt horrible for making them see him this messy. The sudden touch, even if very subtle, made him almost jump in fear, looking to his back fast trying to see who was trying to talk to him.

— Mr. Tenna?  A-Ah, sorry to scare you like that, I didn’t mean to! – It was the only person he knew that was aware of this place: Ralsei, now looking a little startled and nervous from Tenna’s sudden reaction. – I can leave if you want, sorry-

— Oh! Ralsei, RALSEI! I- uhh, didn’t see you there! — He tried to recompose himself, quickly putting out the cigarette on the balcony and putting it back in his pocket. — Don’t worry, ‘pal! I just wasn’t expecting anyone to show up here, haha!! You don’t need to leave!

Even when he’s trying to have a moment to himself, he’s still begging for someone to stay with him.

— I just wanted to say sorry for everything I said to you yesterday — The small, fluffy goat was a little nervous and visibly guilty, looking down as he spoke, trying to keep a smile to soften the guilt in his expression — About… You know. I don’t know what made me say it.

— Oh… that.  — He felt himself shrink a little bit just from remembering. — It’s okay, really! It was… surely a ride of a day, huh? I’m not bothered, I’m not! Don’t worry! 

Tenna gave a smile trying to shrug it off, with a completely award-losing crumpled smile. He didn’t want to talk about it, this was such a hard day already. This was very obvious to Ralsei, who also didn’t look like he wanted to talk about it as well, but felt even worse for not saying anything. Similarly, Ralsei put on a smile, changing the subject.

— I actually went here looking for you to ask you a favor! And give you this. — Ralsei handed Tenna his Pipis, holding it like a little child, giving it to his hand. — Ah! D-Don’t worry about how I know about this, I saw you trying to protect it in your house later and just thought that you wouldn’t want to just leave it after the way you went away from your room!

Tenna felt an overwhelming happiness seeing his little darling back. He went away so distressed from the encounter with that weird creature he forgot to take her with him. As his happiness grew, so did his body, with a flower blooming in the top of his nose.

— Oooooh, Ralsei!! You’re so, so, so thoughtful! You really are the most special-est boy!! — He gave Ralsei a little pat on his head, making his fluffy hair even fluffier. — What did you want to ask about? Ask anything! I won’t mind!!

— …I wanted to ask a question about someone, actually! — Ralsei's smile looked a mix of bright and worried, like he was fearing what kind of reaction would show up when he asked about who the “someone” was.

— So you guys were partners? Like partners partners? — Susie asked, making a gesture with her hand by dropping it, slightly curious. — Or like….. I don’t know? I mean, he kept mentioning you I guess. 

— CAN’T YOU [See with your own eyes!!] MY [[Commemorative Ring]]??? — Spamton pointed at the golden ring in his hand. — WHAT DO YOU [Think before you]??

— I dunno, it’s just weird since he didn’t recognize you and stuff. Did you really change that much? 

Spamton rolled his eyes, thinking about how to explain puppetification and a deal with an eldritch being beyond imagination made him lose completely his sense of self to the point of completely distorting his appearance, making him just a shell of who he used to be. He then looked to Kris, trying to see if they could help him explain, to see Kris with a completely horrified expression, almost shouting “Please, don’t” with his face. He caught the signal, but still wanted to show off how good he used to look.

He ran to one of Tenna’s boxes with the objects that used to be in TV World, looking for something from that time. He could grab a bunch of microphones, ties, thematic ugly ties — he really needed Spamton’s advice in fashion, huh? — for special events, but nothing from his past. Not giving up, he opened box for box, looked at every corner, every tiny space that could store something. Until he finally opened the closet where the Pipis was peacefully resting when the Lightners opened it up back in that Dark World. It was hidden in a very crowded place in Tenna's house, so he almost thought the closet was just left behind while the fountain was closing. 

He opened the closet, in anticipation. On the bigger door, there was just an empty space, with old TV Time clutter. Not everything that very is different from the most recent things, just visibly older. But there was still a drawer left unopened, the only thing he hadn’t looked at yet. He reached for it, trying to open it, but it was shut in too hard and pulling it with all his strength barely made it move.

— THIS [!#@] [$!$#!$] DRAWER!!! — He tried pulling with both of his arms, almost feeling his puppet arms fall away from his body. — JUST. [Open bar for     ]. ALR3ADY;!!! 

He dropped if, falling on the floor with full force, rambling angrily and panting from the struggle. Footsteps came closer to him, as he recognized Kris’ foot getting closer to the drawer and opening it with ease. With the sound of the ranging wood opening, Spamton could hear a muffled chuckle, followed by a way louder, stronger, laughter a little farther away. From the drawer, Kris grabbed a crumbled, curled and familiar old poster.

[Jackpot!]

— Dude, you looked like THIS? No way! — a shocked Susie said, looking at the poster Kris just uncurled. It was the poster announcing his collaboration with Tenna for the first time. Tenna looked like he didn’t change a single minute, but Spamton… looked like a completely different person. 

If you could even say he even is a person, in first place.

— Sucks to be you. — He heard Kris’ monotone voice this time, playful in a Kris kind of way. Their voice barely changed but you could almost feel it. — Guess the years haven’t been really kind to you.

They said it, with a somewhat empathetic look. It was not the first Kris saw this poster, as they have seen it in the Z Room. His old dressing room. It’s just that now, with better lighting, the smiles of the poster’s stars, looked as bright as ever. 

— But what happened? I mean, it really looked like everything went rough, but… — Susie asked with a confused and thoughtful look, trying to piece everything together.

Which is exactly what was too dangerous to happen. 

— What if we tell Tenna what happened? Maybe that way… !

— WOAH WOAH WOAH WOAH THERE [[Little]][[SusieZILLA, chump!]]!!11! DO YOU THINK I DIDN’’T [Try our brand new samples!] THIS BEFORE ??! HE DIDN’T BELIEVE IN ME!! NO ONE EVER [Believe in your dreams!]!!1 — He interrupted as quickly as he could, jumping straight into Susie’s direction, desperately. — NO. N0. N0. NO WE CAN’’T TELL [Another Him.]!! JUST [Like you] WON’T TELL THAT [[Hochi Mama]] ABOUT THAT [Specil] DREAM, OK??!

Susie flinched, with a mix of confusion, anger and fear. Every thought she had simply dissipated in the air as soon as he mentioned the last phrase.

— How do you know about…? —She looked horrified, but the anger made her stop talking. It’s not like reasons mattered now anyway. Asking would just make it worse. The confusion was taken over by anger, so Susie roared. — FINE!! You don’t want help? Whatever! I’m doing it for TENNA, not for you, you freak.

Susie bursted out of the room, enraged. She slammed the door with such strength that could easily have broken the door, saved only by luck. Kris was ready to go with Susie, getting closer to the door, until she came back.

— Kris. Stay here. Try to find something here. I’ll handle things around with Tenna. We don’t need this weirdo to help him. — Susie’s enraged expression changed while hearing something Kris whispered. — What do you mean you also want to help him?! After everything?! Fine. Whatever. I’ll be back later.

And she was gone again, this time with Kris leaving the door and going back to check on Spamton.

Sorry, kid. 

I didn’t want to push you like this, but it’s better for you to stay out of this. 

You’re smart. You’ll figure it out sooner than later.

You’re smarter than I was, anyway. 

Kris gave Spamton a thumbs up, as if asking if he was fine. They looked concerned, although the puppet couldn't grasp if the concern was for their Lightner friend or the Darkner friend.

— I’M [Fine wine!]. SORRY FOR SCARING YOUR [[Friendship is        ]], [[Little Sponge]].

The concerned look kept in place. But now, a sudden change in their eyes made the puppet unsure of why this time.

Oh. How could he have forgotten? 

They’re here too.

— ❤︎  Did you actually tried talking to Tenna about it?

Long time no see, pal. Guess all of this made you curious. 

— OF COURSE I [[Did you know? Every         ]]. I TRIED [mail guy], I TRIED [[Better Call       ]] AND YOU S4W WHAT HAPPENED WHEN I TRIED [[Talk it out with our new           ]]!! FOAM. FOAM EVERYWHERE. — He recalled the incident again, cringing from even remembering. Oh, to fold with zero pressure as soon as he called his name, just to be humiliated after. — WHAT? DO YOU WANT [[Proofs and evidence]]??

Spamton went for the boxes again. He knew that Tenna hadn’t thrown it away. He knew that CRT way too well for his own sake. He jumped inside the clutter, scavenging until he found it. He knew he wasn’t wrong. 

— SEE?? — Spamton showed Kris, and however went to talk with their voice, an old and small computer. He turned it on after some struggle. It probably hasn’t been turned on in a while.

As it turned on, a wave of memories came back. That was his computer, where he was going to teach Tenna about e-mail. It brought him back, as the smell of the memories — or just a familiar smell of smoke coming from the not-very-well-shut door. Someone was smoking his favorite brand of cigarettes very nearby.

Holy irony. 

It was like he was in the dressing room again, with Tenna by his side.

‘And then, you turn it on like… Tens, are you even listening to me?’ He would turn to him, annoyed. So much asking for help just to be distracted during it. 

‘I know, I know, this stuff just makes my screen fuzzy, like my head turns off’ The CRT replied, genuinely looking tired. ‘Besides, how can I not be distracted seeing how cute your tails twitched while you talk about this.’

His whole face would go red with this comment, like his whole head went burning.

‘TAIL?! Haha, you REALLY need some rest, I don’t see any tail here!’ The salesman pushed his shirt downwards in an attempt to mask whatever was down there. ‘Well, if you don’t want to know, maybe I should just head out, then–’

‘NO!! That 's not it!! It 's more like…  haha, like if something didn’t want me to be able to learn this. Like something would even happen, haha!!’ Tenna said, jokingly. But he could sense that there was a sense of truth in his words. Not exactly by what he said, but by something Spamton could see behind the CRT.

A wide smile lost in the darkness, much like a Cheshire Cat, with yellow and pink eyes burning in the dark. A sight so subtle within how dark the room was, but enough to send the message. 

‘Y-Yeah, like something like that, huh? You’re so funny, Tens.’ He felt a tail made purely by darkness crawl along his legs, almost strangling his limbs, its pointed tip feeling like a blade, just to leave him free again, as a warning.. ‘That was so funny.’

They both laughed, but they both knew it wasn’t a joke. 

It’s not like anyone would believe if it wasn’t. 

Or like he could tell him that it wasn’t.

The addison took a drag of his cigarette, trying to calm down his racing, panicking thoughts, while looking at the one Tenna had in his hands. 

‘I thought you hated this brand.’ He said. ‘You even told me to stop smoking those.’

‘I don’t know.’ Tenna replied, softly. ‘It just grew on me. What, I can’t change opinions?’

‘EHAHAHAE, no, you can, sorry. I just didn’t expect to see it. You, of all people, talking about accepting changes, huh?’

‘Well, of course.’ His screen now had a subtle pink blush, with a warm feeling. ‘If I wasn’t able to accept changes ever, I would never have met you, right? So it can’t be that bad to have some changes from time to time.’ 

Spamton was the type of person to always have something to say. Always something to reply to. Even if it isn’t a good answer or if it came wrong, he would talk first, think second. 

But Tenna, somehow, always knew how to make him at a loss of words. Just like he just did at this moment.

He was quite proud of it.

‘What? Did the cat eat your–’ Tenna chuckled, with a soft, passionate smile, leaning in closer to his face, completely red.

‘Shut up, Tens’ The unnerving mention of a feline finally made him go back to the present. ‘I was just thinking, ok?’

‘Oh? Thinking of what?’ 

‘Thinking on how good you look smoking my favorite brand. What will you do next, copy my beautiful hair?’ He teased, pulling Tenna even closer by his tie.

‘Maybe I will. So what?’ He teased back, with a smile. ‘Any problem on taking inspiration on the one I lov–’

As soon as he heard Tenna start to say this word, Spamton kissed him, in an attempt to stop the talking. The teasing felt good, but he knew, in the end, that Tenna didn’t mean that. In no way he actually loved Spamton. To do that, he needed to at least know him. And Spamton knew this was impossible. After all, not even himself knew who he was. How could someone love him, then?

But when they kissed, he could just forget everything. Anything. Both of them would. For just a moment, the world would stop. They could just have each other's lips, their breathing, their smells. 

They both, in the moment, wished that this moment would last forever. Later, they would wish this even harder, with a bittersweet taste. Just like they would every time both of them would smell the cigarette. It was almost a guilty pleasure for Tenna, a way of trying to relive the feeling of safety being in his arms.

Oh, how he wished nothing ever changed. But he was too proud to admit it to himself, even if it was obvious.

The smell of the smoke, now in the present, filled with unresolved feelings, finally stopped, as the lasting ones went out of Tenna’s air vents. 

He knew there was something wrong even back then. He should’ve been smarter, and not get so attached.

Not that he could do much now, as Ralsei barely saying his name was enough to make his whole body in a mix of ache, sadness and yearn.

— Sorry, buddy, I just… I don't really want to talk about him. — A present day Tenna replied to Ralsei, as the fluffy teen tried to have Tenna to open up about his ex-business partner. His good antenna fell over his screen, as the TV himself looked down. — C-Can you ask something else?

— Oh. Well, maybe… — The goat wasn’t really sure how to proceed with the conversation. For his luck, he didn’t need to think much, as he saw Susie coming in their direction.

— SUSIE!! 

— Tenna!!

Susie ran into Tenna’s direction, jumping to a big, full-body hug. Tenna, who was even smaller than Ralsei just a minute ago, felt his body grow back filled with happiness, with Susie tightly embraced in his arms.

— So, how are we doing here, big guy? – She said, smiling brightly.

— Susie, you came just in time! I was trying to think about asking a favor to Tenna, he said I could ask anything and didn’t wanted to just…

— Hey, Tenna, can you show your old TV episodes in there? — She said, doing a soft knock on Tenna's screen. 

— Why, of course I do! — He said, sitting down and putting Susie back on the ground. — I can show you guys whatever! Whenever! Just ask! Please.

‘Psst, Susie. Where 's Kris?’ Ralsei whispered.

‘Still with the puppet guy. They’re trying to find out stuff too, and they said they wanted to as well. Might kill some time while we’re at it.’

‘Oh, I see. Ok then.’

Still at the TV Room, Spamton looked zoned out, looking at the computer. As Kris tried to reach out for him, the puppet started to glitch.

— I… I just wanted to… I TRIED T0 I TR1ED T0 I [Try your luck!] TO I TRIED TO I TRIED TO I [Your free trial has ended] TO I–  The buzzing went stronger and stronger, making him fall into his knees, overstimulated while sinking in sounds and lights, like he was getting hit by a thousand lightning bolts. In a sudden break, he stopped the glitch for a single second.

— YOU GOT MAIL.

And then, fell on the floor, becoming the Dealmaker’s glasses again. As Kris grabbed the glasses, they noticed something on the computer Spamton was looking at. They equipped the glasses and looked closer. 

There was something new in the email’s spam folder.

Don’t open                                     ❤︎ Open

Chapter Text

FROM: <[email protected]>

TO: <t̵̝̭͉͖̦̓̎̀͛͝ṽ̸̗̥̦̌ͅt̷̻͙̐͐͑̑̽̊͑̚ị̶͈̝̈́͒̌̒̿̓̏͝m̴̫͖̈́̃e̷̥͔̳̘̻̠̎ơ̴̡̡̩̣̮͎͕̳̩͛͒f̴̬̯̪̞̤̈́f̸̹̖̆́́̓͒̀̈́͜͝ì̵̭͚c̷̼̭̓̿̅̑ï̷͉͙̺̰̞͈̺̿̀a̵̧̢̜̖̘͉̯̎̾̓̽̈́l̴̨͖̝̎̋̉̕m̵̛̗̙̲̖̯̋͑͜a̶̼͓̺͑̿͗̔i̷͇̫̮̤͐̐̊́͝ͅl̷̠̈̓̑͆@̴̳̐̉̊͝d̵̳̫̲̲̞͗͌̉̀́̈́a̸̛̻̳̞͖͓͍̔r̴̛͚̼̈́̌̊̓͂̇͑͝k̴̤̬͕͍͛̽͐̋m̷̧̝͇̪̥̓̔̒̀a̴̡̺̭͇͚͙̞̟͖͛͛̀̐̈́͝͝ì̴̙̇͐̔̓͆̾͝l̷̢̧̉.̷̩͕̅c̴̡̘̻͈̔́̐̕o̴̡͍͗m̸̲͎̳̹͇͕͉̙̦̔͐͒͊̕͠>

SUBJECT: <▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓ ▓▓▓░░??░▓ ▓▓>

Date: ▓▓, ▓▓ ▓▓▓ 20▓▓ 66:66:66 -66666

THE [[Truth]]. YOU’RE THE [From the      and only] WHO CAN TAKE IT, [[Little Sponge]].

—PLEASE NOTE—
OPENING THIS MESSAGE ACKNOWLEDGES:

>> (please, [open the files])

>> (be careful, kid.)

>>

 

The message had a stack of 7 .avi video files attached to it. Before the player could even understand what exactly they were seeing, Kris clicked on them, one after another. This time, even if they were terrified, they knew they needed to see it, like the pixels itself were whispering to them. 

Kris started the first video.

ishouldreallydeletethiswhateverdontopenit.avi 

‘Shit, this thing is so— oh, wait, I did? Finally, FINALLY it’s recording.’ — The video started with some mumbling, a hand way too close to the lens, shaky. The hands backed off the camera, the Darkner attached to them revealing themselves more clearly now, slightly familiar. 

‘I, uhh, I wanted to… Damn, I should’ve written a script or something. It’s okay! It’s okay. First step. I’m doing good. Rough starts are normal. I think? UGH, that’s why they keep calling you a failure. Haha!’

They laughed, like the brittle laugh would somehow make the insecurity dissipate. The figure on the camera sighed and then breathed deeply, trying to recollect themselves. They were almost completely white if not for their black blazer: white, bright, puffed fur coming out of it in a way that made them visibly uncomfortable as they tried to make the fur less noticeable, fidgeting the blazer even if it wasn’t that good, while putting their hair back. They tried to make a confident posture and gave an award-losing smile, visibly nervous, but still trying the best they could to not look like they felt like a mess just before resume on talking in this somewhat familiar voice, even if looked higher than the one you remember.

‘Listen, I just… I know I have a future of great things in my way. I just know there’s… something for me. And, huh, I wondered if it would be cool if I, like, recorded the journey or… something like that? They could put these old recordings on a documentary! Like, from zero to hero!!’ — The dreamy happiness that came so high for a second got sunken up, going down at the same speed it came, like a wave.. — ‘Or maybe I’ll just delete this thing. Good. Talking to myself will surely make people see me as less annoying, I’m sure of that. It's just like they said about me shooting my mouth at the grill. Anyways. I’m starting this recording thing anyways. It’s like a gamble. Man, I really wanted to go gambling if they let me out of work for just a little more. It’s not like me being away will change much anyway.’

‘Hey, are you talking to yourself again?’ A mildly irritated but unknown voice could be heard in a smaller volume, probably farther from the camera.

‘Gotta go. That’s it for today. Ruined the mood, thank you man.’ The flustered Darkner reached for the camera to shut it, the face easily readable as “got caught messing around by a coworker”. 

And the first video cuts off.

Kris opens the second video. This time, the camera already starts shaky.

IKNEWITIKNEWITIKNEWITdontopenpleaseorillkms.avi

‘I knew I wasn’t crazy. I knew it! Oooh, and they all said I was being too optimistic. They can all say that I’m unlucky, but who’s the unlucky one now, huh??!’ 

The figure, now smiling wider than ever, tried to calm down again. They kept talking, visibly very excited, like someone who just hit the lottery, pacing around the room from one side to another and gesturing wildly as they spoke. At some point they were almost bouncing on their heels — a messy, frantic kind of energy that made them look like a half-plucked chicken attempting an useless flight.

‘We were working, like always. And the Lightners were ignoring me, like always. B-But then, I hear a phone ringing. You know what’s weird? No one else heard it ring! Just me!! Weird, right?? But when I answered the phone, I knew it was some di-divine calling, or some shit like that!! So I couldn’t just let it ring, right? I mean, ha, who WOULD? And the voice in there, they said I hit the jackpot!! JACKPOT!! That I had a very, very interesting role, and they could help me achieve it! They said I could be a BIG SHOT!!! They said I just needed to sign a deal. Can you imagine? Me?? HAHA!! It looked like something crazy out of a movie. The others said it looked like a scam, but they’re probably just jealous. Of course they would be!! And my friend from the other side of the line, the one who called me?? They agreed!! It’s just so obvious. Anyways! Guess we’ll know if it is next time I record, haha!! Sorry this was short. I just needed to share the amazing, AMAZING news!!! Always believe in your dreams, I guess!! HAHAHA!! Oh, I’ll FINALLY make them EAT their words!! Wait, I shouldn’t record tha–’ 

The figure rushed to grab the camera and so the second video stopped. 

Kris started the third video.

FOR_BIG_SHOT_EYES_ONLY.avi

‘Guess who wasn’t scammed and is a BIG SHOT now!! HAHA!! Those last weeks have been so, sooo different. They keep saying that I’m getting scammed or that the call looks dangerous. Like they care in the first place! It’s not like I heard all my life that I am a burden, that I was unlucky or that I’m bad for business or whatever. They even said that MY products looked like a scam. Like I never heard THAT one before!

The figure raised their voice into a weird, high-pitched mocking imitation of… someone unidentifiable. It was impossible to tell who even if you knew who they were talking just from the way they mimicked them.  – Oooh, we are just WORRIED about you, man. We just want to help your sales, Spam. You just need to ramble a bit less, Spam! We just want to – MY. ASS!!.’ 

The figure, now with shorter hair and a posture slightly more confident — even if the insecurity still bled through — shouted, their face flushing an angry, volcanic red, like they were seconds away from blowing and an eye twitching, a spasm almost letting go the anger that they were trying to contain. They snapped their head toward the door, anxiety cutting through the fury as they realized how loudly they’d yelled — afraid someone might hear and barge in, even though they looked like they wanted a fight in the first place. Somehow, they managed to catch a breath and resume their rambling.

‘The great news is that they don’t need to worry about this anymore!! Guess who has two thumbs and is going to work at the Queen’s mansion! Yeah! THIS guy!! QUEEN’S MANSION!! After I signed, so many good opportunities showed up, and I don’t need to be scared of screwing everything up now because my new friend will just tell me what to do. Easy peasy!! No one can stop me NOW!! I've already been there – At the mansion, and all, but I’ll probably move in by next week or so, they gave me a fancy room there!!. I met this guy there who’s an easel or something, and Queen said she was going to show me this Tenna guy. Easels didn’t talk much, just asked if I wanted to buy something. He offered to dye my hair black as a welcome gift, tho! .... Okay, okay, I kind of begged him for it when I saw his black dye, but hey! Free makeover to look less like those freaks? I just can’t stop WINNING!! I guess I’ll be very different next time I record!’ 

The third video stopped and as soon as it did, Kris started the fourth video.

N_O_T_A_E_M_A_I_L_D_O_N_T_O_P_E_N_.avi 

For the first time, the camera started in a more stable position.

‘Long time no see! I know everything looks very different now…’ 

The figure pulled their now black hair back, the other hand fidgeting their yellow tie, perfectly fit in their very recognizable fancy red suit, a golden pin with a mail symbol attached to it. They were in what looked like a dressing room backstage, some posters on the walls but barely visible given the quality of the camera.

Everything changed so fast those last days I didn’t have time to record, ha. It’s crazy actually, every time I try to, something comes up. But hey, I never felt more free in my life before!! I can just do whatever I want now! I’m just leaving the dream here!! You think I would stop with working with Queen? BAM, get this: I’m a completely new Dark World also with their boss on the palm of my hand! Sort of. Haha.

They looked regretful from what they just said as soon as the words were out of their mouth, trying unsuccessfully to pretend otherwise.

‘I don’t live here or spend too much time because I still have to go back to the Cyber World of course, as I still work with Queen and can only go to TV World when the Lightners bring the laptop to that kid’s house. Oh Tenna won’t shut up about those two kids.The goat and the human, and their parents, and how they really like that one show, or that one cartoon, or that one channel.  Or how their marriage is cute, even if they fight a little, how it looks fun to be married, or go to school with the kids. Like, I get it, damn, calm down. They don’t even know you’re more than a -'

They got self-conscious of what they just said, guilt hitting them the second the words left their mouth and sighed, trying to remember what they were talking about, looking almost embarrassed from getting way too carried away rambling about the other Darkner.

‘But I guess spending time with Tenna is fun. I, somehow, feel more… at home? in the TV World? More than I ever felt in Cyber City. Hell, I even feel more myself there. When my benefactor friend said that I should bait him while promising to help him with technology, I really thought it was smart but…’ 

For the first time, the figure slowed down on the mindless talking, like collecting their thoughts and softening, not putting up a face for the camera anymore. Like they were, for the first time, letting themself vulnerable, seen, letting the mask slip. Looked a little like a pitiful stray cat after being fed for the first time after a lot of hissing and scratching, like it realized it didn’t needed all that drama.

‘Who am I kidding? I wasn’t ever smart, was I? Haha. I’m just having so much fun I… feel guilty not to share a piece with him. We even have shared clothes now, damn it! Same tie, same suit, matching pins… And he’s always asking for my secret for being big like this. Or what he could do to hit it big too. Poor guy needs it, HA!! Every time I ask my benefactor, you know, that one friend, they always are really vague but try to make me not talk about it to him? But never explain why? I think they’re just bullshitting me. Even if it is, maybe I can try… Maybe I can teach very basic stuff. He just doesn’t need to know what spam e-mail is hahaHA.— sorry. Got carried away again. Not, but seriously. Maybe that’s why they advised me to not talk about it? Well, I wouldn’t trust a business partner that’s just some junk in the Light World and is not actually a useful Darkner. Ha. But I think I can make it work. Somehow. I need to think about it. You know, I’m not very good with thinking, especially with a weird force thinking for me sometimes when I’m on air, haha. But hey, I made it work this far, didn’t I? With a little help that is, sure, yeah. But nothing stays big without a little help right? But I think I can, you know, at least try. Anyway, Maybe, for him, I can–‘

‘Spammy?” 

A voice came from behind them, through the dressing room’s slightly-open door, making them flinch like a startled cat — shoulders shooting up, practically jumping out of their skin. A tall Darkner stood there, ducking to fit through the doorway, dressed in a matching red suit and yellow tie.

‘We're starting in 10 minutes, are you ready? What’s taking you so–’ The voice chuckled softly. ‘What are you doing with this camera? Can I see tha–’

‘THE HELL you’re watching this!! Only over my DEAD BODY!!Back out, OUT!! I’ll be there in a minute!! Sheesh, you nosy boobtube!!!’

Their face got flushed red in embarrassment, violently grabbing the camera as they were plumbing to answer the other Darkner, the reaction making them smile even more, getting more curious to see it. Before the video cut, some mumbling and sounds of the camera being dragged around the room could be heard although barely anything was able to be visible through the chaos. Under the barely-audible conversation were some white noise, buzzing static, footsteps, and the frantic hops of a very short person panicking.

‘C’mon, lemme see a bit! You know I know everything about camerawork!!’

‘HA!!! NEVER!!”

‘Not even a little glimpse?’

‘There’s NOTHING for you to see here!! SHOO, SHOO!!’

‘Spammy, you know that putting it above your head doesn’t actually hide anything, right?

‘I’ll SHOW you something to HIDE, you–’

‘Oh, you will?’

‘I–’

In the middle of the chaos, somehow, the fourth video cut off.

Kris opens the fifth video, reluctantly. Like they wanted the story to end there.

But it didn’t. 

Uncannily, the fifth video barely had any lighting at all. The frame was swallowed by pure darkness, the only illumination coming from faint, irregular flashes of the camera—just enough to show that this wasn’t any place you’d ever recognize. In the middle of the void, like a ghost glitching into view, was the same figure from all the other videos.

If you squinted a little, you could notice that they seemed unmistakably off. Their very-white skin looked paler under the weak camera glow – if this is even possible, at this point– with deep, dark eye bags. The signature and well-kept pompadour, the only thing that kept constant in all the other appearances, now looked like they just lost a war. It was oddly messy, frizzled out and wild, like it was completely soaked up in static charge after rolling around the bed unconsciously. The clothes made them look like a beaten up mascot, the previous perfectly tailored suit replaced by some reddish pajamas with little CRT monitor icons as stamps, the kind of outfit that looked less like normal sleepwear and more like bizarre tie-in merchandise for a slumber-party-themed TV special. The contrast of the silly stamps with the oppressive darkness didn’t really fit, like something way too intimate.

Like this wasn’t supposed to be seen. Or even recorded.

soethng.avi

‘I don’t get it.’

Silence.

‘I just don’t get it.’

Silence.

‘I keep having the same dream. It’s snowy, the colors look weird, there’s those people I never saw… and… there’s… him. Tenna. He 's always there. In the dream. It’s the most vivid thing in there.’

The figure paused, reluctantly.

‘The Lord of Screens. Cleaved red by blade.’

They said it like the words were weighing on their throat. But then, they kept talking with a shaky, deep breathing.

‘I keep dreaming about it. His arms falling off, the sound of the blade, the snow covering his body, slowly… I keep seeing his body fall into the snow. And I try to reach him but… I can’t do anything to stop it. Just look. My body just doesn’t move. It’s like I’m… tied. Like I can’t… control my body.’

They pressed their hands to their face and dragged them up to their hairline, mussing the already-messy black hair, sighing again. Their expression looked tired, or worse– looked defeated. The rest came out as quiet mumbling, like they were afraid to speak loud enough for the camera to catch, but it got caught besides their wishes.

‘It’s probably just a nightmare. This is stupid. I shouldn’t be recording this.’

The figure stopped mumbling and stared straight at the camera, as if  to talk to someone who could be watching. Or, at least, the only one who they thought would ever see it. Their eyes trembling with a tenuous glow, tears almost visible in them, but hold back in a weak, unsteady chuckle, trying to brush it off.

‘Damn, Tens, if this is because your stupid horror movies night reruns you play when you sleep, I’m going to actually kill you. The static fucking up my hair is bad enough. I’ll just go back to bed and delete this eventually. Tenna, if you ever see this and this is somewhat your fault, just know I’ll really kill you.’  

They grabbed the camera to shut it off, with the camera going dark for some time as the recorder was probably struggling to do it while sleep deprived and in the dark. Before the fifth video stops, very shortly, you could hear a laugh.

They grabbed the camera to shut it off and the screen stuttered to black as the recorder fumbled in the dark. For a heartbeat, before the video cut, a laugh echoed— completely different from the figure’s voice. Kris felt it like a chill and shivered; they recognized it almost instantly 

They stared at the monitor, whole body trembling, like they already knew what came next. But it was too late. 

The sixth video started.

for_tenna.avi 

‘Tens, if somehow, SOMEHOW, I managed to make you see this, I–’ 

They stopped, swallowing something heavy, like the words were scratching on the way out.

‘I’m sorry. I’m sorry for not telling you sooner. I’m sorry for every time I ran away because of a call. I’m sorry for not being able to help. I’m sorry for being such a fraud, for making you believe I could actually help you. – Each “sorry” made the Darkner’s expression look more and more desperate, with wobbly eyes. The voice sounded like they were vomiting the words more than actually saying them. — I– I don’t know what will happen, I’m sorry for whatever the hell happens if I can’t help. But you deserve to know the truth. Even with everything that happened, even if my whole body breaks, even if I’m…—

Their voice cracked, like their soul was cracking too. 

‘I need to tell you that I, Spa— 

The video buzzed in an incomprehensible fashion, glitching the name and another single word and jumbled it all with the burst of noises.

—‘e you m-more than anything in the world.’

When their voice returned, it was thinner, trembling like they could pass out at any moment, raw and painfully vulnerable.

‘I know I sound insane, I know, but it’s true. I just can’t lie to you anymore. And if I could change my fate, if I somehow managed to be more than something to be discarded, hated and ignored, I know you can too. I know I can help you, somehow. I- I need to. Listen—‘ 

They looked around sharply, scared by who could hear them talking inside the void. The panic rose in their breathing, as each word came out faster and faster, like the words itself are running away to the air.

‘I-I can’t tell you too much. I don’t know what will happen if I do. Maybe it will be safer after signing our deal tomorrow. But if the deal doesn't work, you need to know abou–’

An overwhelming loud buzzing of failing technology took place in a catastrophic volume, forcefully cutting the file to black as the camera itself looked like they gave up. 

The last file looked like it had been recorded by someone else, in a room that seemed to swallow light. It didn’t feel like a recording.

No, it feels like a memory. —except whose memory was it?

‘Friend.avi’ started by itself. 

My, oh my. Did the cat eat your tongue, dear friend?’

A voice folded from the darkness took over the place, the wide smile that accompanied it revealed itself from the shadows, like a chilling greeting. The sound didn’t have a clear source, simply existing like the grin itself learned to speak.

‘There’s something wrong, my friend. I guess you really didn’t read the fine print. Did you forget what I told you? Did you forget our deal, dear friend?’

The overwhelming silence took over the space, like every second of quietude robbed them of their air.

‘Did you forget who is the one in control?’

A needle-sharp pressure threaded through them as they felt something like a tail tightening, making it harder to breathe, darkness taking over their body and dragging them into an abyssal dark. The voice leaned in, amused and hungry.

‘You tried to defy me. You still try to defy me. I gave you power, wisdom—  I gave you everything. And how do you thank me?’

That same uneasy laugh from before rose up, louder now, cleaner and more unhinging.

‘All this courage you thought you found—where did it get you to? Becoming a doll. A vessel. Just a shell of the person you once were. A caricature of your own face. You thought defying fate was easy, didn’t you? You really thought you were free, didn’t you?’

They couldn’t tell where the sensation came from. Whether it belonged to the footage’s past or to Kris themselves. They just felt it – Their body melted and rigidified at once. Limbs going slack, then snapping tense; a jaw clinching so hard it might split.For a blink, they saw their blue skin bleed into another’s white, plastic one. In the next, their colors leached out, gray washing over them monochromatic. In another moment, they could feel their body losing all autonomy, getting grayer, losing color. Their body shifting, flashing, between this darkner, the Lightner and a monochrome version of themselves. Green strings appeared at the edge of perception, pulling at joints and dragging them over, like an unwanted puppet as they were both having someone’s memory from the past and a horrifying fate to what’s next in the future.

Like they couldn’t tell who they were anymore.

Not like they even knew it, to start. But somehow, it became worse. Way worse.

They were flashing between selves– a failed Addison, a lonely human, a popular salesman, a hero from the prophecy. They were a fraud, a cage, a puppet, an angel, a Lightner, a Darkner. Everything, all at once. They all were them, but none of them were at the same time, an maddening carousel of identities and memories. 

The strings tightened, a slow, surgical suffocation – penetrating. Devouring. Strength slipped away, as the hollowness took over and spread through the skin. They were used up, left feeling like as disposable as a used candy wrapper. Something ripped at the center of them, a violent tug that felt like someone tearing their soul out of their body.

‘I’m going to warn you just this one time.’

The smile widened until the room seemed to bend to it, as the pink and yellow eyes flared, stealing what little light that remained.

‘This time, don’t forget it.’

A muffled scream threaded through the darkness as the creature watched, unblinking, its eyes drinking them dry.

‘No one can choose who they are in this world.’

— KRIS!! There you are!! —  a voice cuts through the visions like an anchor, dragging the human back to the present.

They blinked at the computer. The files and the email were gone. Kris was panting, like someone who’d just jolted awake from a nightmare, sweat cooling on their skin and sliding off the multi-colored glasses. They knew what they’d seen.

It wasn’t just someone else’s memories.

No. Worse.

It was a warning. A warning, braided with a cry for help from someone already too far beyond saving.

Kris couldn’t stop looking at their shaky hands, still blue despite the vision of their flesh getting replaced by that plastic puppet arm burned into their head, the sensation of losing bodily autonomy and complete hollowness made their chest tighten.

They were still staring at their hand, the other hand still gripping the glasses, when they suddenly felt a warm feeling wrapping around them from behind. Big mechanical arms folded close, a staticky tingle buzzing close at Kris’s temple. Their head settled against a chest that felt mechanical and electric, and yet, bafflingly, soft. Kris looked up, seeing Tenna’s screen blacked out above them, worried. They could see their reflection on their screen, blurred on the dark glass.

They looked back at the glasses.

Is this how you felt that day? The face you made after answering that phone? 

The face you made when you ran and left the phone hanging?

Tenna held tighter, like they were answering the questions they made in their own head. The TV, probably, was thinking the same thing. He was already tearing up. He hugged Kris like they could just vanish if he loosened his grip for half a second. Or worse, Kris just bolting away from him, and leaving him behind, like everyone else did.

Like he did that day, when he made the same face.

He wasn’t ready to see that expression. Not again. Not after everything that happened. He wasn’t ready to lose them just like he lost him. So he did what he should’ve done that day: not reaching for the phone, but reaching for them. So Tenna held Kris instead, as if it could, somehow, fix the hole in his heart for not being able to hold Spamton.

Kris leaned into the embrace, as they were starting to ground back to reality and, for a moment, the world steadied. They closed their eyes, hugging Tenna back. Yesterday, in the TV World, they couldn’t admit it, but they had the most fun they ever had in the bright lights, challenges and laughs.The idea of Tenna dying had hurt, but it had felt purposeful. There was no way of escaping it. But here he was, hugging them, bringing them comfort, even if he had no idea of what made them so scared. Now, with Tenna here holding them, a different kind of possibility sparked. Maybe, just maybe, things could turn out differently. 

They were still with the glasses on their hands, close to Tenna’s chest. If the lens had arms, it probably was trying to hug him back too. Both of them needed this like they'd never needed anything before, the three of them. Silence pooled around them, heavy with the questions that had no answers — but the hug answered the one thing that mattered.

Maybe this time, at least this one can be saved.

No.

Maybe this time– Maybe they both could be saved.

Kris felt tears dripping into their fingers, melancholically. It was neither Kris’s nor Tenna’s tears. This time, it was the tears from someone who just felt a huge weight off their shoulder, as now, it could at least save someone after everything they suffered. 

It was the glasses.

The lenses shimmered, trembling, a soft glow pooling into tears that slid down the frame and over Kris’ hand. Like the glasses themselves were exhaling, relieved. Like they’d been waiting years to finally let this out.

‘Thank you.”

Feels like something their glasses would say.

— Kris, are you sure? I mean, I don’t really know what to do with that, but if you’re asking so happily, how can I deny it, haha! But you looked so attached to it!

— Well, we can always just grab it back if they change their mind. Right, Kris? — Susie smiled, still checking if they were okay. They looked better than earlier, sure, but with Kris, it’s hard to be completely sure.

Kris gave them a thumbs up. They decided to let the Dealmaker glasses go to Tenna, for two reasons. The first, and most important, was trying to return the favor. They knew how hard it must’ve been for Spamton to show those files, and how dangerous it could’ve been for both of them. Somehow, Kris could tell the puppet was, in its own way, trying to help them avoid a similar fate. As terrifying as the experience had been, there was something comforting about having someone with similar struggles share their situation and guide them through it. They wanted Spamton to have some happiness, some space to make up for things with the person they cared about—their own TV, who had also just supported them and might owe them a favor in return.

The second reason was simpler: the soul was driving Kris insane. Even after seeing everything, the soul couldn’t stop trying to make the Dealmaker appear for the “yaoi plot.” It kept poking around, messing with the files, making Kris check everything repeatedly. As a punishment, Kris revoked the soul’s access from Spamton—just to make it shut up for once.

— Hey, uh, I get it if you don’t want to talk about what was in the computer and all. — Susie whispered as they left Tenna’s Castle Town room. — But, like, what was so terrifying about it? I mean, I never saw you make a face like that when we got there, dude.

For a moment, Kris considered answering, but a sudden, irresistible urge to say something stupid stopped them. Susie could almost guess what was coming just from their expression.

— You know what? Nevermind. I don’t think I want to know.

They had already grown close enough to read each other well.

— Hey, but I managed to get some clothes for that small guy. I asked Tenna for suits like his, but more your size, so you could actually wear them. That puppet thing is just a little smaller than you, so maybe this will work? I dunno if it’ll fit, but a try is a try.

They left Castle Town, heading toward Noelle’s house. Luckily, time passes differently in the Dark World, so it wasn’t too late. At Tenna’s room, they gave him the Dealmaker glasses, left a Kris-sized TV uniform with a little note for Spamton, skipped the “congrats on the divorce” cake on the table, and gave a half-baked excuse for the poster and mess from exploring. Tenna, focused on making sure Kris was okay, accepted everything without question.

— I hope they make stuff up when we get back there. — Susie muttered, sharing what felt like the same lizard brain instinct. — Those two are way too messy to deal with.

Messy, but endearing—just the way Kris would describe their relationship with both Darkners. Susie’s comment made them smile softly.

— Yeah. I hope so too. — Kris said quietly, unable to close their eyes without imagining what their glasses would be doing to try to make peace with their divorced TV. They deserved a little care, after all.

Chapter Text

That look.

That look that haunted his dreams and ruined his life.

That was the first thing Tenna saw when he, Susie and Ralsei opened the door.

The widened, trembling eyes. Like a cornered deer breathing their last desperate breath as some natural life documentary would record their end. The whole body stiffened as if carved out of wood, but also, somehow, like it would collapse at any moment. 

At this moment, he felt his body moving on its own, almost shoving both of the small teenagers out of the way as carefully as he could, heading towards Kris. Very cautious, like the human would run at any moment, he wrapped his arms around them, in hopes that the warmth could bring some kind of help.  

Tenna wasn't even sure of why he did it. He didn’t understand anything right now. But this didn’t matter at that moment.

For a glimpse, he saw his face again, like it was leaking through the pink-and-yellow lenses, nearly falling from the human’s nose bridge  — the same pale, mortified expression of terror and confusion, staring back at Tenna before leaving that phone hanging and running away.

Before Tenna let him run away.

He should’ve stopped him. He should’ve asked what was wrong. He should’ve done something.

But instead he reached for the phone, hoping it would finally teach him the secret to be a big shot.

He’d said he was coming back anyway. So why should Tenna chase him? Couldn’t he trust his partner for once?

At least, that’s what he told himself — the only thing that kept the daily guilt from drowning him completely.

It’s not like Tenna didn’t have any questions at the moment, either. How Kris found this computer? What did they see? Tenna didn't even know how to turn this thing on, for the Angel’s sake! What is so important about it that Kris found? He had so many questions floating around in his head, but he knew the answers wouldn’t come. After everything, Tenna learned how pressuring for answers can just make things worse. Even an old CRT could learn new tricks from time to time. 

He didn’t know how much time passed like this. He was so worried about Kris that could barely think of anything else, the image of their expression burning in his memory. Last thing he knew, they gave him their weird glasses and left with his room looking like a hurricane passed by. 

What a day.

Tenna removed his tailcoat and put it carefully in his closet, leaving only his white undershirt. As soon as he put the clothes in place, he almost melted completely on his couch, still holding the ugly glasses Kris gave him. He looked at the ceiling, trying to recollect his thoughts and everything that had happened by now. In a handful of days, he’d be plugged back after an eternity, dragged into the Knight’s deal, almost died, got almost fixed and somewhat healed, a weird-looking-but-somehow-oddly-familiar small thing trying to grab his little egg darling, barely could help the kid he saw grow up on… whatever horror-inducing experience they had…And now? Glasses.

He wasn’t a drinker, sure, but there were some days that really called for some of it to cool down. That was another horrible habit he borrowed from his previous business partner and his eccentric Cyber City culture to drink the pain away in battery acid.

‘No, calm down Tenna. Maybe you just need a nap, or something. Yeah, a nap, a nap would be good.’

The problem? Sleeping is a real struggle now. Every time he tried turning their screen off after everything with the Knight — It’s like he’s still there in the snow, every time his screen is off. The cold taking over him, slowly freezing the very fragile light-based body— the antennas, his insides, the now exposed cables, the feeling of snow falling on his blacked-out screen and muffled voices he couldn’t understand anymore from whom they were, what they were saying or a single word, jumbled in the other sounds.

The inability to sleep peacefully again wasn’t the only change after the incident, of course. Tenna’s whole sense of space felt buzzed, probably caused by the damage on one of his antennas. This, combined with the memory of being swooned from his back made him way more easily startled when anyone got near him. He felt, now, a sudden need to be always checking his surroundings and having to pay more attention to understand sound, like his head were completely filled with static noise chaotically mixed with the usual sounds and sights from day-to-day life. Ralsei said something about this problem being permanent, so he would need to somehow adapt to losing a part of his hearing and notion of depth. How? Well, that’s the physical challenge he would need to face now.

That effort was taking too much of his energy, thinking about it instead of sleeping did too. So he did the obvious: got up to grab some coffee. Enough of this glooby thing. Enough thinking. 

He moved to his kitchen, and a wave of relief hit him when he saw the coffee maker — while they’d all been killing time, Ralsei had made some coffee for him. It still sat there, untouched; the other kids hadn’t even looked at it, but the small goat boy must’ve remembered Tenna’s rambling about not knowing how this strange modern machine was supposed to work.

It’s not like Tenna had never seen a coffee maker before — he just never needed to use one. Or even could, really, since he was always pacing around the studio like a live wire. Whenever he needed coffee, Mike would bring it to him. He and the mailman were the only ones who knew exactly how Tenna liked it.

Well… used to know, at least. Mike stopped bringing it that way after the other one ran off.
A frown took over his screen as he went for the pot — still warm — and poured himself a cup. 

Here he was, thinking about it again. 

Goddamnit. 

As soon as he had his coffee in his TV-Time–themed mug, he started pacing around the room, taking slow sips every now and then. Moving helped keep his mind from spiraling, and with the place so painfully quiet now, he needed to do something. Anything.

For his sanity. 

For someone who spent all his life covered in noise, novelty, channels and colors, crowded spaces, shiny blinding lights and a never-stopping show, there was something really… unsettling with being by himself, with nothing to occupy his mind.

He took another sip, stopping a little to look at the mess his room was now. There was something out of his sight, that he didn’t know what exactly. There was just… something he didn’t remember that he was supposed to keep safely.

Oh. Right. The glasses. Kris wanted me to keep the glasses safe. 

Great. One more thing to worry about.

— Heeey, little guy, where are you? — He looked for the glasses in his pockets and tried to search them in the room , checking any surface that he could have put them on. — I don’t know if you’re a little guy, or a little gal, haha, sorry!! Little… thing? Little worm? Little… star? 

For a second, he pondered

And actually considered it

‘Yeah, I’m not using this pet name again’. 

 — Glasses. Little glasses. Little glasses will be enough.

He was talking to some glasses, while looking for it in the way-too-messy room. Maybe he has lost his sanity already, actually. 

‘Well, it’s not like me talking to myself is a new occurrence anyways’

— Hmm… I should give you a name. How did Kris call you again? — He kept tapping around looking for a hint, while also to see even a glimpse of the glasses. Like they would come out by themselves. — Deal… Taker? Faker? Ha, what kind of name is THAT!!

He was starting to freak out. He just had a good moment with Kris, he couldn’t even imagine what would happen if the kid wanted their glasses back and Tenna had LOST it. No, no, NO, this can’t be. The worst part is, he can’t even ask anyone to help him find it. No, the idea itself was enough to fry his circuits. So, in a desperate attempt, he kept on calling it, in some insane and lunatic hope of it helping the item to come out.

— Uh, sorry for that. I’m not making fun of your name anymore, uh…. Deal… c-catcher? Deal… Maker? Dealmaker! THAT was it!! – He snapped his fingers triumphantly. 

Suddenly, he heard something coming from his back. The multi-colored lenses showed up, sliding closer to him and, like Tenna couldn’t take any more surprises, the glasses glowed, revealing themselves as it took the form of a small, white beaten-up puppet Darkner.

Didn’t he see this guy before…?

— Dealmaker? You’re the Dealmaker?! Kris’s Dealmaker??! — Tenna almost jumped. That was the creature that tried to steal his precious baby twice, bit his hand and, even worse, lied pretending to be him. The shocked loud voice became lower, as he started to talk more to himself in hopes the small puppet wouldn’t hear, now walking in circles trying to think clearer. — But… Why is it with Kris? Did he… no, no, but Kris looked at it so fondly! Why? Does this thing have some kind of mind control or…?

— HEY-HE Y H3Y!!! I’M NOT [[Having hearing issues? Our new hearing aids will ]] YET!!! I CAN STILL [hear you, kids] MUMBLING!!!!

Tenna flinched. Sometimes, he would speak way too loud even if he is trying to speak as quietly as possible. With the hurt antenna, this poor habit got even worse, as he barely could tell the volume of his voice. Like having the entertainer curse of always speaking loudly wasn’t bad enough, losing the ability to tell properly how loud you are felt like a really unfunny joke.

— S-Sorry!! It’s just that, uhh… 

— ANSWERING YOUR [[Million-dollar question!]]: I DONT KN0W WHY THE [[little sponge]] [[like me]] EITHER!!! I GUESS IT’S THE OLD [tumblr sexyman rizz]!!

— The what now— 

— SECOND. NO, I CANT [     are mind controlling] !! WOULD MAKE 3VRYTHING A LOT [easy mode] ACTUALLY!!! 

Tenna’s mind felt like it was melting with the small Darkner’s speech. He wasn’t sure if he was more confused at the voice alterations, the weird words itself or everything jumbled up. Reading lips to have some clues didn’t help either as the puppet jaw didn’t seem to have any lips to start with, always trapped in an uneasy smile. 

He was too exhausted to deal with this. 

— Well, I guess we had kind of a rough start earlier, huh? Your name really is Dealmaker, right? Can I call you DM, for short?

The creature looked offended for a second, and Tenna almost tried to take it back. But their expression changed for a second, like pondering the possibility and gave him their hand for a handshake with a wide smile. Well, at least wider than normal, if this is even possible.

— YE!! [[Call me by your      ]] DM!! YOUR [#1 Salesman], PLEASURE TO ME3T YOU [again and again]!! DONT WORRY ABOUT [[earlier that day]], IM SURE WE CAN [[make up 20% off] FOR THAT!! 

‘Make up for that, huh? Well THAT doesn’t look suspicious at ALL!’ He thought, as he shook the plastic puppet hand. Now that he looked closer, they had different clothes from the last time he saw it, with a small, black bowtie and blue-ish undershirt above the black beaten up blazer from before. The bowtie looked… oddly familiar. He couldn’t help but notice the golden ring in their hand, the only thing that didn’t look like it was randomly grabbed from garbage or a hand-me-down. 

— Well, I guess you already know me, haha! Now that we are properly introduced, can I ask you again what are you doing with the kids? I know you said you didn’t know why Kris likes you, but why were you with them as glasses?

— [Equip Armor]. WELL, SORT OF. — He let go of the hand, and they looked around while taking their black greying hair back with their hands. — THEY [fight of flight] YOU TOO, RIGHT? THEY DID ME… A [Favor for favor] BUT IT… DIDNT WENT WELL. – The puppet paused, looking down. The colorful glasses became gray and dark, like static, like he just turned off for a moment, just to go back talking like nothing happened. — WHEN THEY [Spare]D ME, I DECIDED TO [Press F1 To Help] THEM. SO NOW I'M PART OF THE [Team up]!! 

'I really need some sleep. I can barely understand a word. I can barely understand anything that is happening here, really. Can’t this guy turn the ADs off for a second?’

— Ooh, like the small bouncy spade!! What was his name again, Mr. Generosity? — As much as Tenna wanted to ask to tone down the brackets talk, something made him feel like this would only make things worse. Whoever this Darkner was, they are really important to Kris and they really wanted Tenna to keep and take care of them. So he gave DM the biggest smile he could. — So, do you want something? A coffee, some food? Please, feel at home, you can grab anything!!

The Dealmaker’s eyes brightened up, like a small puppy who was just offered some treats for the first time. Somehow, Tenna had a bad feeling about it but it was too late to regret it.

— ANYTHING? [Anything you can gather] FOR REAL???

— Well, Kris made me promise I would take care of you, so… — Tenna mumbled as low as he could, mildly annoyed. Which wasn’t much but it was enough so the new roommate couldn’t hear. Or probably they just ignored it.

— SO [Don’t mind if I do], BOX HEAD!! — He ran to the fridge, grabbing a bunch of TV Dinners to eat. 

‘That was supposed to last at least a week. But that 's okay. I’m doing this for Kris and I’m here just temporarily anyway. That 's fine. No problem at all.’

Tenna gave his coffee the last sip and headed for the couch again as he observed the bug-sized creature he was involuntarily homing now. There was something that really brought him back while he looked. Maybe he wasn’t lying about being…

No, it was too different. And he wouldn’t just come back again, right? He left him. He left him and never looked back.. If he wanted to return, he would’ve done it years ago. He could at least call him. But no. Nothing. 

Without noticing, his screen was buzzing, the energy slowly fading out as he needed to rest but couldn’t. If he had eyes, they would be fighting to shut down. He couldn’t keep awake anymore, but the cold sweat remembering the last time his screen shut off suddenly kept him from relaxing. That and having a complete and maybe-not-that-trustworthy stranger in his room. Like they felt it, DM looked at Tenna, visibly analyzing him.

— …Can I help you?

— ARE YOU [Having trouble sleeping? Try this    ]?? MAYBE I CAN [Help! It burns! It burn! Help!].

‘What are those voice change things, really?’

— Oh, it’s nothing, really!! I just… need to relax a little, that's all!! — He smiled again even though he knew he surely didn’t look like someone who just needed to ‘relax a little’.  But usually, people would just buy his facade and let him be in denial.

— YOU CANT [Lie to me], [Trash heap]. I CAN SEE THERE'S [Error! Something went wrong with your file]. SPILL IT OUT. 

— Why are you talking like you know me already? — Tenna chuckled, not thinking much about it, but the puppet face paralyzed for a second. Which made him seriously think now, why did they talk like they’re used to it? 

— I’M…. I’M. I’M. I’M A [It’s!! T!! V!! TIME!!] FAN. [#1 biggest fan] THERE!!!!!! WATCHED ALL OF IT!!!!11!! SO I CAN [notice the little details] LIKE THE [[Huge fan of classics!]] THAT I AM!!!!!1!!!!! — DM looked extremely awkward as he spit it out, sweating bullets, slightly redder face and tensioned shoulders. Tenna couldn’t really tell if they were nervous because of the embarrassing excuse or the embarrassing revelation. Or if the puppet just always looked like that. But he felt too good to hear someone talk about being his fan after everything to think too much about it.

— A… fan? OOOOOooh, a FAN!! — A flower bloomed into Tenna’s nose, shyly. Just some petals, as he didn’t really have that much energy now. — Well, I guess I can’t really hide from you, huh? Sorry to not be exactly what you would expect to see on TV, haha…! 

Tenna tried to laugh it off. He failed.

— …In that case, can I open up a little to you? 

— [[I’m all ears]], BIG GUY. 

— I don’t know how familiar you are with the story but… — Tenna put his hand on his shoulder, feeling the carefully made stitches on his undershirt that were here as an attempt to recover from the incident. —- I met the Knight, those last days. I… ended up breaking my promise with them, and they slashed both my arms from behind. 

Tenna’s whole body shivered just from talking. He didn’t want to talk but what other choice did he have, really?

— So, my screen… blacked out. From the impact. I just felt my body in the snow, getting colder and… colder. — His voice was trembling more and more and he felt tears threatening to come by, but he couldn’t stop, grasping the shoulders harder now. — Every time I shut off, I see myself there again. In the snow. And I can’t sleep, because I can’t let the image out of my head. I… I just—

There was a strange look on the puppet’s face. He really couldn’t tell what this expression was. Were they worried? Was this sorrow? Fear? Did he freaked his fan out?

— I-I’m sorry, you’re just a roommate, I shouldn’t— 

— NO. IT 'S [A-okay]. — There was a huge silence between them, as DM came to sit closer now. This time, the permanent smile seemed… softer?. — I THINK I HAVE SOME [[sleeping advice 101]] TO H3LP.

— You… do? — The tears were on his screen now and he just noticed that not only was his voice trembling. His whole body was. — What kind of advice?

— I. I HAD A [Friend Like Me] THAT HAD A SIMILAR PROBLEM. NOT [2 equals 2] PROBL3M BUT. — The small Darkner looked down. Tenna had no idea of what was on his mind, which gave him a lot of anticipation for what they would say next. — YOU COULD [try those for 4.99$] THINKING ABOUT MORE [pleasant memories] WITH SNOW. TO [[overriding saves]] THIS ONE. 

— Hm. This… doesn’t look bad, actually! — He finally felt slightly relaxed again. — Did doing this help your friend? 

The puppet paused for a second before answering.

— HE CAN ONLY [sleep in clouds] LIKE THIS. SO YEAH.

— Well, if you want to sleep, you can grab some blankets next to my bed. I… think I’ll try to head off a little. I’m only trusting you because you’re Kris’s friend, don’t make me regret it. — He headed off to his bed, almost like a zombie. He still wasn’t sure about letting this stranger in his house or even worse, sleeping with a stranger in his house. But he had a promise to keep. Breaking one already cost him that much last time. And he was way too worn-out to think properly.

The CRT almost fell into the very fluffy bed, still clothed. He could put on his pajamas, but he really wasn’t sure if the advice would work. 

He shut off his screen, and the memory of the cold came back. He felt the hurt in his shoulder again, cold sweat all over. 

'Pleasant memories…’

He could imagine a smile, brightly close to him, as he crumbled in the bed.

'Something pleasant, in snow…’

Memories of antlers vaguely passing his memories, and he grabbed a pillow unconsciously.

‘Good memories… on snow’

‘Pleasant…’

‘Snow’

‘...Snow’

His mind drifted off, feeling the cold snow tickling his nose as he was making decorations for the holidays. That was Tenna’s favorite time of the year, as the Dreemurs and the Holidays would meet up for days, watching specials, playing games together, watching music videos and their favorite holiday movies together, close to the warmth of the screen while everything was colder. The scent of freshly baked pie, hot chocolate, gingerbread men and monsters cookies and, of course, seeing the smiles all around. 

That usually meant that he would show up more, when Noelle and Dess would bring the laptop home. He tried not to think much about it. It’s not like he was the only one to show up, Queen and King also spent some time gathering to celebrate together, even if Tenna wouldn’t really interact much with them given how much work he would do.

Still, he couldn’t hide his happiness when he saw the Addison’s glow coming.

— SPAMMY!! You came just in time!! What with the new looks? 

Spamton looked distressed, humiliated and embarrassed, like a wet cat. His face was completely red as he was wearing a cute, puffy and sparkly blue dress with big bows, and some reindeer antlers headwear. It really didn’t look like something he would pick up for himself at will.

— Those little $!@ers found a way to tell the Queen that I used to wear… this. — He said the last word, almost spitting it disgustingly, grabbing the dress uncomfortably. — And she begged me to wear it. She said she would fire me if I didn’t use it and forbid me from taking it off while still in Cyber City. So… I couldn’t take it off to come here. — He grunted, visibly irritated.

— I don’t get the issue, you look so cute in it! I get why Queen wanted to make you wear it!! — Tenna looked at the dress, admiring it. It was a cute dress, it made the chest fluff of the Addison really shine through and blue really suited him, even if he would prefer to wear the red suit. As he was gazing at the work put in the dress, he and Spamton were already walking to his dressing room.

— Listen, it’s not the dress itself, I just… — He made a really painful face, stopping the walk and looking down at his body, uncomfortably. — I just don’t feel… myself in it. You know?

This time, Tenna got it and regretted complimenting the dress. As cute as he looked, he could tell how much he was displeased with it in a way Spamton usually could brush it off. But not with this. 

Tenna really didn’t care about clothes or gender, completely influenced by watching Kris grow and develop. They would wear whatever they felt like it, sometimes borrowing some of their mothers dresses, sometimes using scarves to pretend to have a beard like his father. Tenna himself wasn’t the type to care too much about what his wearing— if it’s great and it fits, what’s the problem? — but there was something too unnerving about the way Spamton was denying to look at himself, like acknowledging the dress looked like a death penalty. Even if he didn’t cared about clothes, that doesn’t mean everyone would feel the same way. So Tenna tried to correct himself as soon as he realized his mistake. 

— Okay, okay. So go to the dressing room! I’ll grab something that will fit you perfectly! I was just waiting for you to come, actually—

 The relief on Spamton’s face was tiny, but it was real — a small untightening around the shoulders, like he could breathe again now that someone wasn’t insisting the dress “looked cute.” Tenna turned his back, about to go to the costume department, until…

— Wait. You were waiting for me? — He stopped. He really couldn’t tell if his voice had more of a teasing tone or a genuine question. Either way, he got back to walking before he could learn it as he knew there was no way to answer without letting it show how much he was yearning to see his little star again. 

Tenna ran to the studio to grab a blue Christmas sweater, perfectly sized for the co-host as he used the measurements that were there for the tailored suit. He made the sweater himself, carefully. Toriel has been watching a lot of programs about knitting and knitting clothes for her children and he really wanted to also gift one, even if it wasn’t really perfect in the craft. He shyly brought it with him, heading to Spamton’s dressing room. He was already there, with the dress now off and wearing a plain, white, chest binder that still let some of the white fluff escape from his chest. He faced the door backwards as he put on the usual baggy white pants, the fluffy white tail still visible. It wasn’t the first time he saw Spamton like this, but he still felt flustered every time. He’s probably never getting used to it.

— Coming in! — He advised as he opened the door carefully, giving Spamton the sweater. — It’s hand-made, so if you don’t like it or if it doesn’t fit, I can grab something else…!

Spamton turned around, analyzing it slowly and passing his fingers through it. 

— It’s… knitted? Tens, you knitted this? This looks so good!! And looks like it took… time? You… made this for me? — his hands started to shake. 

— Spammy… Are you… crying?

— HA!! Me?! Crying over a SWEATER!? HAHAEHAE!!!  — He rapidly put it on, covering his face in the process as Tenna could still hear some sniffing hiding behind the fabric. As he finished putting it, he had visible tear cleaned up tear marks. — So stupid!! Like I would CRY for something like this!! YOU’RE the sentimental one here, Tens

The salesman's face now had a subtle pink-ish glow in its cheeks, as he reached for the antler’s headwear again.

— …But thanks for the gift.  

‘HE LOVED IT!! HE REALLY LOVED IT!!’ Tenna’s tail was wagging so much in true joy that it could hit anyone near him if they weren't just by themselves now. A flower bloomed in his nose, happily, and he could tell his antennas were doing a heart again. But he was too happy to think about it.

— And check THIS out!! Close your eyes!! — The mailman obeyed and Tenna grabbed another sweater he made for himself, this one being red and yellow, but with similar patterns so they could still be matching and wore it under his shirt. — You can open it now!! We’re still matching AND all ready for TV Time’s holidays specials!! And, hey, don’t worry about Queen, you can sleep here for the special occasion, I still have some pajamas that could fit you! 

Tenna knew how corny he looked having everything matching all the time, but he didn’t care. He knew his co-star liked it, even if he would never admit it. He just knew him way too well. 

— Well, if you remember to turn the screen mute — Spamton teased, with a soft smile while he adjusted the sweater on the mirror. Now he looked like himself again, the usual awkward but confident posture coming back. — I don’t want to wake up in a nightmare because your stupid horror movie reruns at night. Who watches those, really?

— Well, isn’t your “special deer” a fan of horror? Maybe she’s watching with Kris. — He teased back while messing with the antlers headwear, knowing Spamton would deny having some attachment to Noelle.

— HAHA!! Special deer?? I have NO idea what you’re talking about! C’mon, we have to work, Cathode, move!! — His tail always twitched when he lied. He probably didn’t notice Tenna could see it, but he knew talking about it would make him cover immediately and he really wanted to have any second of the fluffy forbidden tail as much as he could. 

Tenna loved every second of the holiday specials. The snow, the decorations, seeing his audience smiling so brightly next to him and seeing his little star next to him, his beloved co-host, just made it so much better, that Tenna really didn’t care about how much work he needed to do. He was just the happiest he could ever be in times like this. Sometimes he wished this would last the whole year.

The night of that day — snow falling in the windows as they were both in blankets, comfortably. His hands carefully slipped through Spamton’s messed hair, feeling his breath and drifting off sleep. He gave Spamton some TV-Time pajamas despite his protests. Sure, maybe it was some over the top for a normal night wear but what about it? What’s wrong with using your own merch to sleep, huh? And most importantly: the mailman looked really cute using the red-ish CRT-stamped pajamas and static-driven hair. And that’s what really matters in the end. This little vulnerable side of the Addison only he had the permission to see.

He felt the small hands caressing his screen fondly, the warmth of his tiny fingers getting slightly twitched by the screen’s static. The sound of his little star breathing next to him, quietly. This was the only time he could take quietude, and he wished this peace would last longer.

But, strangely, it didn’t. 

With some time, the hand started to tap around it nervously, as if he was checking if Tenna was already there, the hands getting sweaty and starting to move fast now. The calm, sleepy breathing was getting harder, and Tenna was waking up by the sudden panicky movement of his partner.

— Tens. Wake up. They’re coming.

— Who? Spammy, come back to bed, it’s just a nightmare. — He mumbled, still sleepy

— Watch out. — He started to try to wake Tenna up, moving him desperately. 

— Spammy, what are y—

— TENNA, WATCH OUT!! 

Tenna looked back, but it was too late. The pain on his shoulders came back. He was cleaved again, falling on the snow, like he would fall forever in an abyss. He kept on falling, and falling, and falling, almost being able to hear someone calling him.

As he kept falling, he could see Spamton watching him go.

That same look. Again.

‘Please, don't leave me again’

He kept on looking. Frozen. Shaking. And backing away slowly, moving that phone aside, the dial tone sounds becoming louder and louder.

‘Please, don’t—‘

But it was useless. 

He ran away.

He left him.

Again.

And he woke up again, in a cold sweat and hugging a pillow with such strength it could pop. At least he could sleep a little, this time.

He didn’t remember tucking himself to sleep.

But weirdly… his blanket looked very-well adjusted over him.

He peeked around, and could see DM still near, on the couch. For some reason, seeing him there, gave Tenna… relief.

 For some reason, he felt good to know he was still there.

As weird as the whole situation was, he was happy to not be by himself again.

Chapter Text

The most important thing for a salesman is their identity. Their image. Their brand. Who they are.

It’s all about how they share who they are to the world.

So what should a businessman do if they don’t know who they are? Or even worse, if they know, but who they are is just not enough?

There's a very simple solution.

Just create someone new.

That's what Spamton did. Over and over and over again. Firstly, rejecting the Addisons or anything related to them to become a Big Shot. That was the easy part, as he was never like any of them. New hair, new clothes, even started almost living in a new dark world. But it didn’t last. It could, if it wasn’t for him and his insistence on Spamton sharing his secret. The way he was capable of softening him just to let him fall from his grace.

So Spamton tried again. 

The basement. The godly machine in the basement was the key for him to have a new life. A new person. Almost a god. He could finally break free from his strings. He could be someone else entirely. He tried to get there multiple times, he tried everything he could even before his eviction. But there’s so much you can do when your existence has been completely erased and prohibited in every space. Until he met Kris. A Lightner. The key for him to get to the basement, and an opportunity for a soul.

He became god, for just a couple hours. He couldn’t tell how much time, but he knew he was someone else. Someone better. And he knew he would achieve heaven when the final string was cut.

But he didn’t. 

And he fell again.

So, again, he was nothing but a puppet.

He wasn’t going to try again. 

But he didn’t need to.

He was given another chance, as part of the Lightners team. A helping hand given by that little kid. The same that, years ago, would smile at the TV screen and playing dolls with their antlered friend and the laptop they brought from the library.

The little gremlin that would sit almost touching the TV screen, using that red-horn headwear with a bright smile. That one where Tenna would talk about for hours and hours.

Their favorite shows, their favorite food, their favorite time of the day, their favorite pranks, their favorite clothes, their favorite animal, their favorite color, their favorite hobby… Tenna knew everything. And he would happily pace around talking about it to him, don’t even noticing how uninterested he was on the topic. He just looked way too happy to interrupt his partner because of the way Lightners have thrown him behind. They always do, especially to people like us. Tech, if not adaptable, is easily discardable. Spamton was aware of that, and he knew that, deep down, Tenna knew too. He just preferred to deny it. 

So he let Tenna talk and talk about the small human, their fluffy goat sibling, their smart and sensible deer best-friend, her big sister who warned her about opening weird e-mails. Their parents, how they loved each other so much, how happily married they were ‘Did you know I was a marriage gift? Oooh they looked SO happy together, just by themselves!!’ As the CRT would say. Granted, Spamton barely remembered everything Tenna would say. It was too much information even if he cared to hear about it for a second. Which he didn’t. So it was kind of a struggle to remind himself of what that little Lightner liked when he saw them again, now right in front of him for the first time.

But even if he didn’t know how to approach at the moment, there was something else more important that he knew. And that was enough to make them closer.

The soul.

They were both pawns. A puppet and a cage. They were both trying to break free of each other’s strings. He thought they could, and maybe the human did too. After all, there was nothing left for him to lose. But in the end… he was just a puppet, trapped in the vines. There was never a [heaven] for people like him. No… all he had was to rot in his heavenly made insignificance. But the human was a different story. They had something he didn’t have. Determination. Companions. Freedom. True freedom.

He thought he was going to be left behind. There was nothing left for him, anyways. He was done, forever. But the kid he saw growing up, somehow, looked at him like seeing a reflection. They were horrified, and visibly upset about the strings, but… they still decided to keep me to help them. 

That’s why they were the only one who could know about his past. The only one who would even understand it. That’s why he showed them the videos. And he really thought no one else would be able to see them, even himself.

It was… hard. To see himself again, as Kris’s glasses. The good thing about being in the Dealmaker form was that no one could see his reactions. Seeing that weird, insecure and unaware white addison again was already hard enough. It was like seeing a ghost again. Or even worse, actually. Was he always that stupid? 

What he wasn’t ready for was seeing himself in his big shot era again. This 1997 version of him, where everything was right. He remembers this time so vividly but, somehow, he couldn’t recognize himself. He almost forgot how he used to look. At least how he used to look besides some old posters. The neat black hair, the tailored suit and tie, his soft, white skin while it still looked like digital fur. But there was something else that caught his attention even more…

The smile.

There was something about the smile. Something he never noticed before. It was… softer. Way more soft than the smile he had now or the smile in the previous videos. No, this smile seemed… happy. Genuinely happy. A soft, genuine and fond smile, especially every time the name “Tenna” came out of his mouth.

No wonder what they had wasn’t a secret in the studio, huh. That stupid CRT really got him on a chokehold without him even noticing. 

Now, this sight made Spamton feel… confused. Pathetic, nostalgic, weak, regretful. Even seeing himself in his prime, he couldn’t help but feel like something was wrong. 

If only he could go back…

He didn’t know what he was feeling anymore. Hell, who even was him, at this point? Why was he looking at his past self like it was someone else? Well, it is, in some way, right? It explains why Tenna didn’t recognize him, right? If he wasn’t the person from the videos, who was he? 

...

The phone rang. 

‘All this courage you thought you found—where did it get you to?’

The phone kept ringing. 

‘Becoming a doll. A vessel.’ 

Where is the phone?

‘Just a shell of the person you once were.’ 

Just answer the phone…!!

‘A caricature of your own face.’

But… he answered, didn’t he?

‘You thought defying fate was easy, didn’t you?’

So why won't it stop ringing? He already– 

‘You really thought you were free, didn’t you?’

This already happened. So why–

Why couldn’t he feel his body again? Why is he suffocating again? Why is this happening again??

This is not real. Not anymore. This is a memory.

But why does it hurt just the same?

The phone won’t stop ringing.

The phone won’t stop ringing.

The phone won’t stop ringing.

Stop ringing.

Stop ringing.

Stop. Ringing.

STOP RINGING.

STOP.

S̸̬̀Ṫ̷̼Ô̷͔P̵̛̬.

Ś̶̡̢̢̳͔̦͕͚̯̮̚T̴̮̬̮̮͓͔̂͑̊͗Ö̸̧͇̼̰̖̟͍̜̠̥̹̘͇́P̵̡̡̲̺̬̘̉

ṗ̵̨̡̰̠̭̬̲̓̓̈̀͋͛l̶̗̝̞̖̮̬̆͜͜e̵͓̬̳͕͗̚ͅą̴̛͉̥̱͓́̀̏̆s̴̛̪̩̈́̇̄́ê̵͇̰̣̽̀͂̈́͑̑̕…

p̸͕͎̿l̷̨̪̜͛ẽ̸̫̰a̵͕̩̾͘s̵̹̘̄̓ͅe̷̙̖̅ ̴̳̺̑̀̀s̶̝͇̓͆͗ţ̸̜̎̈́o̶̧̼͍̅͂p̴̘̳̺͛̈́

Suddenly, there was some warmth 

He couldn’t tell from where. But, somehow, it made the phone stop. He was… in Kris’s cold, trembling hands And this red suit around it…– 

He couldn't tell anymore. He just felt the nostalgic warmth taking over embracing him. Well, not really him, but it was so close, Spamton felt like it was. Everything was just… calmer. So why really think about it?

 He was feeling way lighter now. Kris now knew exactly what happened to him and he felt the relief taking over all of his body. He felt himself melt – like this was even possible – by the fondness grounding him. He didn’t know if he was crying or just felt like he was literally melting. Not that it mattered anyway.

He was barely conscious, only returning to consciousness when Kris talked to him before leaving, explaining that they would leave them with Tenna and that Susie left a note for him. Still dizzy from the memories, he had no idea of what was happening after he had seen that again. But it is over now. 

‘There’s no more phone ringing anymore.’

‘You don’t need to keep covering your ears.’

‘...You don’t even have ears, to begin with.’

He breathed deeply, returning to the present moment. He was now being held by a larger hand that couldn’t be anyone else but the Cathode that ruined his life. The assumption would quickly be proven true when the hand got open, revealing a concerningly and visibly haunted Tenna. He had seen him feeling glooby a bunch of times, even more than the average person would ever have the possibility to see. That was familiar, even if he looked way more beaten down than he ever saw.

At least Spamton wasn’t the only one who looked way worse, huh.

Tenna was looking at him almost staticly, not moving a single inch. Well, he seemed looking, but he could tell his mind wasn’t on the glasses at all. It was amusing to watch, waiting for the bigger darkner to have any movement, when he suddenly snapped from his apparent dissociation to get up and left the glasses on the couch. 

He was heading to the kitchen. Perfect opportunity.

As Spamton watched the [boobtube] move out of sight, he started to glow and assume form again, getting back at the cold plastic and rigid puppet body. Spending so much time as glasses was making his joints and back way too stiff and hurt. 

He jumped out of the couch, which almost felt like a mountain for his size. Now, where the damn note might be? He sneaked through the room, looking for it. The room was a mess. Maybe throwing everything out of the boxes looking for a damn poster. As he went for the bed, he found it– a box full of clothes and a tiny note made of ripped paper with “SUSIE PROPERTY DONT RED” written in scribbled handwriting. I guess that was what she tried to do so Tenna won’t peek. He opened the messy paper, looking carefully to check if the box head noticed his absence yet. 

hey weird guy. sorry about earlier, i guess. kris said you also apologized and didnt wanted to be the jerk one to no apologize back. ralsei is also treatening threatening me to apologize.

anyways i asked tenna for some suits like his so you could have kinda of your old fit back. cool right? i asked them to be kris sized because is the closest to youre size i guess even if it is too big but thats the most i can get alright? your welcome. 

ps: ralsei didnt actually tretning treatned threatn me i was joking he made me write this stupid ps.

ps2: Ralsei writing now! If you don't like the red suit there's others there too! I carefully folded them so they would be neat when you tried it! Hope everything goes well, Mr. Spamton! ^w^

ps3: kris wanted to say your very pogers and based. i dont know what that means. but they look like they mean it. 

- susie (+ ralsei and kris)

…The red suit, huh.

He reached for the box and pulled his old red tailcoat. This wasn’t just merchandise based on Tenna’s suit. That was his suit. He could tell – the texture, the measurements, the size, every single part of it. Hell, maybe there’s still some of his fur in it. He held it at his front and looked at the cloth like seeing an old friend again. No, Tenna could lie to anyone and say that this wasn’t his suit, just a very similar one. But not for Spamton. He knew it way too well. He checked the sleeves to prove himself right and there they were – a very small, hidden spot of cigarette stain inside of it. This was very well hidden as he knew he was dead if Tenna saw it. It was very small anyways, especially in Tenna’s metric. But it was perfect. Because that’s all he needed to prove that no matter how much Tenna would deny and say that he threw everything away, this was still there in perfect condition, like he was using it in the studio yesterday. 

How much time has passed since the last time he wore it?

He removed the black, fuzzy and scratched blazer for the first time in a while. He was too dirty to put on such a neat suit, but what other choice did he have now? 

As he adjusted the suit, it felt like coming home after a very long trip. They didn’t fit perfectly anymore, of course. His body changed way too much. But somehow, it still looked like it was made for him. 

He looked at himself in the mirror near the bed. A mix of feelings flooded in again. It felt just right and terribly wrong at the same time. Somehow, it’s like he was expecting the suit to reverse him back to 1997, Addison body and all. But that was just him for a guaranteed disappointment as he looked at the puppet face, stiff smile and greasy black hair. The differences in the suit’s size was starting to make him too self-aware. This was perfectly tailored to fit him, but now, there was a small bit and parts that felt either too short or too big.

Just a torturing reminder that this suit belonged to someone who doesn’t exist anymore. 

For a Spamton that no longer exists.

There was just this unwanted puppet in the reflection. And he barely knew who was this darkner looking back at him at the mirror. Did he ever see himself in the mirror before, to start? Or just a prototype of what he was supposed to be, never him?  

He heard a sound coming from the kitchen that snapped him out of his mind.

Shit. Tenna. Right. I need to wear something different. 

He panicked, putting the notes in the pant’s pocket and going through the clothes again. He couldn’t wear this suit again. He just can’t. Not now. 

— Heeey, little guy, where are you?

Shit. Shit. Shit. Shit.

He took the red suit off as fast as he could, yeeting it back to the box.

— I don’t know if you’re a little guy, or a little gal, haha, sorry!! Little… thing? Little worm? Little… star? 

The dress suit is fine. He can keep it. It’s better than the old white turtleneck. No. Something else…

 — Glasses. Little glasses. Little glasses will be enough.

A blue dress shirt. That will do the work. It’s different enough. 

— Hmm… I should give you a name. How did Kris call you again?

Why do these kinds of shirts have so many buttons?! Why do these plastic puppet fingers made it so hard to fucking button up a shirt?!

 — Deal… Taker? Faker? Ha, what kind of name is THAT!!

Bowtie or regular tie? Or nothing? Wait, is this the BigShot Bowtie he sold Kris? They kept it? Bowtie it is, then.

— Uh, sorry for that. I’m not making fun of your name anymore, uh…. Deal… c-catcher?

He reached for the black blazer again. He’s putting it back, but maybe he could find something better that was not a reminder of his misfortune…?

— Deal… Maker? Dealmaker! THAT was it!! 

Shit. He got out of time.

Like he was getting invoked just as he finished putting the blazer back, his body dematerialized back to the pair of glasses and went for Tenna’s direction without his control, just materializing back glowing in front of the CRT, revealing himself again, now slightly better dressed. That was his chance.

There was an awkward silence for a moment but, before Spamton could say anything to break the ice, Tenna did it himself as he almost jumped to see him again.

— Dealmaker? You’re the Dealmaker?! Kris’s Dealmaker??!  But… Why is it with Kris? Did he… no, no, but Kris looked at it so fondly! Why? Does this thing have some kind of mind control or…?

Are this guy’s circuits really that bad that he thinks he’s mumbling low like this? Is he so used to speaking so loudly that he doesn’t know how to– oh, of course he is. 

— HEY-HE Y HEY!!! I’M NOT [[Having hearing issues? Our new hearing aids will ]] YET!!! I CAN STILL [hear you, kids] MUMBLING!!!!

— S-Sorry!! It’s just that, uhh… 

He didn’t noticed his volume. Of course he didn’t. Of course. It’s Tenna.

— ANSWERING YOUR [[Million-dollar question!]]: I DONT KN0W WHY THE [[little sponge]] [[like me]] EITHER!!! I GUESS IT’S THE OLD [tumblr sexyman rizz]!!

— The what now— 

There was something bittersweet in Tenna’s reaction seeing him talk. It wasn’t that different from when they first met, Tenna trying to force friendliness while visibly confused and slightly irritated. Well, not counting the everything else that was completely different. Tenna just has this power of looking like he never changed a single second, even when he did change. 

— Well, I guess we had kind of a rough start earlier, huh? Your name really is Dealmaker, right? Can I call you DM, for short?

Talking about not changing… 

Tenna still didn’t recognize him. Even in better clothes. Hell, Spamton even tried to adjust his hair to look a little more like how it looked in his prime. He knew it was hard to recognize, Spamton didn’t recognize himself either, but this was starting to get ridiculous. What else should he do to make Tenna– 

And Spamton remembered the first rule he created for himself.

When a salesman isn’t enough, just become someone entirely new.

Now, Spamton was an expert in this. And Tenna was spoon-feeding him the perfect golden opportunity for it, completely clueless of it.

Well, Tenna has already met him just when he remade himself, he can do it again, right? 

Spamton smiled widely proud of himself, as he was given the gift of an easy restart without otherworldly bullshit for once.

— YE!! [[Call me by your      ]] DM!! YOUR [#1 Salesman], PLEASURE TO ME3T YOU [again and again]!! DONT WORRY ABOUT [[earlier that day]], IM SURE WE CAN [[make up 20% off] FOR THAT!! 

— Well, I guess you already know me, haha! Now that we are properly introduced, can I ask you again what are you doing with the kids? I know you said you didn’t know why Kris likes you, but why were you with them as glasses?

Shit. Neo. Avoid the question. Wait, no. Lie about it. No. Fuck. 

— [Equip Armor]. WELL, SORT OF.

Oh. Nothing special. Funny story actually. I made a deal with your precious human so they would help me become god, it didn’t work, I tried to kill them and take their soul but they spared me, showed that my efforts didn’t mattered as I will be forever a puppet trapped in this hellish fucked up body. So now I help them as armor. You know. The usual.

— THEY DID ME… A [Favor for favor] BUT IT… DIDNT WENT WELL. WHEN THEY [Spare]D ME, I DECIDED TO [Press F1 To Help] THEM. SO NOW I'M PART OF THE [Team up]!! 

Yeah. Something like that. That’s a way to put it. Don’t ask more questions. Don’t ask more questions. Don’t ask more questions. Don’t ask more questions. Don’t—

— So, do you want something? A coffee, some food? Please, feel at home, you can grab anything!!

That was the most beautiful thing Tenna had ever said to him in his whole life.

— ANYTHING? [Anything you can gather] FOR REAL???

Eating. Spamton survived at that dumpster for so much time eating anything he could find. Half of a CD Bagel used to be a feast for him. He couldn’t hide his happiness on being [access aceppted] for this giant fridge. He barely could hear Tenna’s annoyed bitchy mumbling response as he ran to the kitchen in joyful hops. Anything you can eat is anything you can eat and it was too late to Tenna to try to take over the invite no matter how much he visibly regretted.

‘This Cathode really never changes, huh. Still can read his expressions like a children’s illustrated book’ He thought as he shoved a whole TV Dinner into his mouth like a cartoon. 

On the topic of expressions… Tenna’s screen observed him, buzzing in and out. Something was wrong. He knew way too well when Tenna was not sleeping well, as he needed to catch it fast to get him a coffee before he started making the sleep deprivation everyone else’s problem. And for no other reason than that.

— …Can I help you?

Spamton stared way too much.

— ARE YOU [Having trouble sleeping? Try this    ]?? MAYBE I CAN [Help! It burns! It burn! Help!].

— Oh, it’s nothing, really!! I just… need to relax a little, that's all!! 

Liar. 

You filthy, horrible liar.

You never need to just “relax a little”. There’s always something more. Especially now that you are even worse than you ever were. You think I don’t know you? 

— YOU CANT [Lie to me], [Trash heap]. I CAN SEE THERE'S [Error! Something went wrong with your file]. SPILL IT OUT. 

— Why are you talking like you know me already? 

Oh. That 's right. You do think I don’t know you.

Spamton froze. Tenna was joking, he knew that. But… was he? How could he be sure? And if he doesn't answer fast enough, the joke will soon become real questions. He’s NOT in a position to be asked questions. He needed to think of something good, and very quickly. Something that Tenna would never find suspicious.

— I’M…. I’M. I’M. I’M A [It’s!! T!! V!! TIME!!] FAN. [#1 biggest fan] THERE!!!!!! WATCHED ALL OF IT!!!!11!! SO I CAN [notice the little details] LIKE THE [[Huge fan of classics!]] THAT I AM!!!!!1!!!!!

He emerged with an intense urge to slam his head in the wall violently as soon as the words left his mouth and smash it with all his strength. What fucking stupid kind of bullshit excuse was THAT?! A mere fan?? Tv Time would be NOTHING without him. Hey, that’s kind of what happened, right? But what else could he even say to Tenna, anyways?! But it was too late to think of anything else. Maybe he will buy it…? Is Spamton that lucky?

— A… fan? OOOOOooh, a FAN!! Well, I guess I can’t really hide from you, huh? Sorry to not be exactly what you would expect to see on TV, haha…! 

He actually bought it. Tenna was still as self obsessed as he always was. Or he is really, really fucking stupid. Or both. Either he believes completely or he’s also bullshitting back. Not the time to really worry about it. If it works, it works. 

— …In that case, can I open up a little to you?

Spamton sighed softly. Here it was again. That weird, soft feeling in his chest. He pondered if he would have that stupid gross lovebug smile he had on the videos now if it weren't for the puppet jaw.

— [[I’m all ears]], BIG GUY. 

— I don’t know how familiar you are with the story but… I met the Knight, those last days. I…

This story. 

The Lord of Screens cleaved red by blade.

He was way too familiar with it. The crossed TV imagery was burned in his mind for a long, long time ago. 

— So, my screen… blacked out. From the impact. I just felt my body in the snow, getting colder and… colder. Every time I shut off, I see myself there again. In the snow. And I can’t sleep, because I can’t let the image out of my head. I… I just—

‘That’s ironic, isn’t it?

You would tell me it was just a dream. I tried to brush it off so many times. The knowledge almost made me mad and insane at that dumpster not knowing when it would happen or why.

And now, the Lord of Screens is sitting next to me. Cleaved, sure. But alive.

This guy is so annoying.

Doesn’t he know how lucky he is for still being alive?

I hate him.

That 's not right.

No, that 's exactly it.’

….how many times Spamton saw it? Tenna’s lifeless body in the snow, in a multitude of ways? 

Even the memory of the actual cleaving felt mixed with the other thousands of times he saw it happened in his sleep. Even if he knew Tenna wasn’t gone, as he would wake up with his partner by his side, the big, robotic arms perfectly fine as it wrapped Spamton like some kind of plush or pillow. It still felt way too real. Until it did become real, just when he finally had seen Tenna again after so much time. 

At this moment, Spamton realized Tenna still made him weak. He knew this more clearly when he felt like could cry at any moment while remembering how close he was to losing him. Which is insane to think about, as some short time ago, the puppet would claim with a smile how Tenna being dead would be the most amazing news in the world.

No. No crying. Not while he’s looking. He doesn't deserve to see you cry after everything he made you go through. 

— I-I’m sorry, you’re just a roommate, I shouldn’t— The whiny and miserable voice brought him back. How much time was he lost in thought while Tenna was talking about it? Well, it’s not like it was anything new to Spamton anyway. It was just too hard to remember. 

— NO. IT 'S [A-okay]. 

He hated how pathetically weak  Tenna made him feel, like a tamed beast. But there was nothing else he could do now. It was way too past redeeming himself.

— I THINK I HAVE SOME [[sleeping advice 101]] TO H3LP.

— You… do? What kind of advice? 

The TV’s voice was very off-character  — faint, soggy and depressed, shaking like a lost kitten in the cold. He seemed more like a kid who needed to watch TV to wind their mind off than the TV itself who used to take this role.

— I. I HAD A [Friend Like Me] THAT HAD A SIMILAR PROBLEM. NOT [2 equals 2] PROBL3M BUT.

There was something about seeing him in this state, remembering what happened to him and his prophetic fate,  that made Spamton hate himself and his feelings more. 

He hated Tenna. He couldn’t stop hating Tenna.

So why seeing him suffer like this was so… 

He deeply,passionately hated how Tenna made him feel.

He hated how much he wanted to see Tenna being happy again. 

He took a deep, slow breath, feeling the words hurting his throat as he spoke. 

 — YOU COULD [try those for 4.99$] THINKING ABOUT MORE [pleasant memories] WITH SNOW. TO [[overriding saves]] THIS ONE. 

Tenna finally had a hint of a smile. Very faintly, but still some brightness was back to him.

— Hm. This… doesn’t look bad, actually! Did doing this help your friend? 

‘This was the only way I could still look at you without going insanely anxious and afraid of losing you.’ 

But Spamton couldn’t say that.

— HE CAN ONLY [sleep in clouds] LIKE THIS. SO YEAH.

Spamton is a horrible liar. He always was. So half-truths ended up being his speciality by now. It’s a surprise Tenna didn’t catch this habit of his

The ray-tube mumbled something about blankets and trying to head off to sleep. It was barely audible but that didn’t really matter, as Tenna went to the bed. Spamton decided this was a sign for him to go back to the important business — eating more TV dinner as he was still allowed to grab anything he wanted. 

But why… he was feeling weird?

Is he really worried if that walking smart fridge was able to sleep properly?

…Maybe going to the bedroom again to check wasn’t a bad idea. Maybe he could find the Gameshow Host’s credit card in there. Yeah. That’s why he was going there. No other reason. Why would he lie to himself?

The powerful giant TV World’s boss was laying down curled up like a puppy, hugging a pillow with his cable tail wrapped around his leg, still using the same dress shirt and work pants. At least he removed the ugly banana shoes before going to bed. Who was the one guy that kept Tenna in check before choosing to use ridiculous thing like those– 

Oh. Right.

It was him, wasn’t it? 

— Pleasant… snow… — Tenna murmured, his lips barely moving as he was drifting off. Or maybe he was already asleep, starting to sleeptalk. He was speaking very slowly and lowly. He wondered what he tried to think. Probably something about the Dreemurs playing in the snow or anything like that. Spamton was sure his assumption was correct, especially as he had a small, soft smile on the static screen and the tip of the cable tail started to wag very slightly. Tenna was just way too predictable–

—Spam... my… — He said, hugging the pillow even tighter, like he was with the Addison himself in his arms. — You… re herwe... — As the dream started to form itself, the static screen was slowly getting replaced with the visuals of a memory, still barely visible but enough so Spamton could understand what it was. 

He stood completely frozen as the realization sank in.

It was him. 

He was Tenna’s pleasant memories of snow. When he would show up for the holidays. 

No. It was the person he used to be.

Fuck. He shouldn’t have come to check on him. But he couldn’t look away now, no matter how much mixed feelings he had at the moment. 

He could see, between the static, the white Addison figure in a blue knitted sweater. It was barely visible but he could recall exactly how it looked liked. How it felt. When he received a gift for the first time, a very carefully made one. 

He was starting to feel sick. Enough of having blasts from the past over and over again.

Suddenly, when he was about to leave the bedroom again, he heard Tenna whine his name again, slightly more loud. This time, it was a more pitiful tone, almost like he was in the nerve of tears, as the static was getting louder.

The pleasant memories were over. 

— …pammy… stay.. — He was still mumbling, but the cry was getting louder, like he was screaming in his dreams and very close to start really screaming. 

He stopped moving again, looking at Tenna again. He was curling himself more, like becoming smaller would somehow make it better. 

‘I hate you. You know how much you ruined me?You know how much I risked because of you? After you left me behind? So why do you still do this to me?’

He thought to himself, grabbing the blanket and tucking Tenna carefully into it, caressing his screen fondly. Like he felt the touch, the hissing on the screen became calmer until it shut down again. 

Thank goodness there was no else here and thank the Angel even more that Tenna was too fast asleep to remember it.

— I [Missing     ]ED YOU, [Cathode]. 

Tenna’s breathing was calm again. He knew the nightmare would come back eventually, but at least for now, he could have some well-deserved rest. 

He left, hoping there was still coffee or anything to distract his mind with. Something that made him stop thinking. 

Fuck. He just remembered.

He forgot to find the credit card.

That damn boob tube managed to distract him and ruin his plan without even being conscious. 

Well, he had time.

He was a whole new person now, whatever the hell that means this time.