006 ♑ [sixth honk]

[hystericull]

Characters: [OU] Gamzee and [OU] Tavros.
Setting: Floor 35.
Format: Action that may or may not be tl;dr in nature.
Summary: Awkward post-makeout, post-meltdown alien teenage boy conversations.
Warnings: Gamzee's mouth. Secondhand embarrassment to the moon and back.

[Gamzee had never been on this floor. Ever. He was slowly beginning to regret this fact, actually. After his fucking embarrassing freakout, the only options he could see for himself were: a. superglue himself to Karkat for the rest of his life, and b. sit somewhere far away from people and just stay the fuck out of everything and everyone's business.]

[Since Karkat was nowhere in sight, one could safely assume this to be Option B.]

[The reason he'd been regretting not visiting this floor sooner was because, well, it was the closest thing to home that he could remember. Sure, the lake was no ocean, but it was water, and there was sand, and it would do. Fuck, it would have to do. Instead of staring out into the endless horizon, he stared down at the seemingly endless floor of the water. He was tucked away, sitting as close to the water as he could without getting himself soaked, peering down into the lake absently - much like the staring he used to do, only bereft of any sort of wonderment or sleepy enthusiasm, instead replaced with infinite listlessness, and a permanent frown etched on his naked face.]

Comments

[hystericull]

[This time, there was an actual grin on this idiot's face. Nothing tired, nothing listless, nothing forced. He was just so damn relieved to be back to the beginning, he never wanted to veer off the beaten path ever again. Bad Things happened when you took chances, and sometimes you did something stupid and the person you loved the most didn't want anything to do with you anymore. Better to keep to what works and never, ever do anything to fuck up.]

[The smile stayed on even after they'd lost contact. He listened to Tavros speak with rapt attention, believing every word the boy said, because he had never given him a reason not to. Gamzee shook his head in earnest, closing his eyes for a moment and chuckling happily to himself.]

That part's all at bein' motherfuckin' true in that a brother up and got his hoof on here to get his wicked lonely ponder on...

[He mused, looking out over the lake with a thoughtful expression.]

But, all that stuff kinda be, like, all taking the motherfucking backseat to all what's the more important thing of bein' able to get my stubs set on my most favoritest of motherfuckin' bulls who all I ain't been gettin' a lot of my motherfuckin' see on of as of fuckin' late, yo.

[He looked back to Tavros, giving him another smile. His tone hadn't been accusatory in the slightest, simply an observation. Tavros had a life, too, he didn't expect him to be at his every beck and call. It was nice to get to talk to him once in a while, whenever he'd happened to be available.]

[At the suggestion, Gamzee beamed. If he didn't have a useless lump for an ankle, he'd be bouncing around with as much excitement as he could muster in his current state.]

Fuuuuck yeah, dog! An adventure sounds all like what's would be the motherfuckin' shit's tits right about fuckin' now!

Or, uh.

When I all got a foot that's bein' all to work, and stuff, I guess.

[:o/]

Honk.

[pushedaround]

Heh, no need to rush my friend! As soon as you get better, let a brother know, and we're off to an adventure. It's going to be fun. I promise!

[ And it's one of those rare moments where Tavros looked extremely confident. He did a little exploring in the tower, made some new friends, tamed a few monsters and discovered new places to show Gamzee. As long as he's in this calm mood, he can handle it. So he's hoping that nothing horrible strikes and ruins everything. They seriously needed some bro time; bond again and forget all the confusion that went down between them. It should help, right?

He hasn't started celebrating just yet, not when Gamzee mentioned that he hadn't been around much lately. Tavros tried his very best to keep the guilt from paralyzing him again, and so far he was doing a good job.

He brought a hand up, idly toying and ruffling his hair, taking a moment to collect his thoughts. It was .... very difficult for him to lie again. He despised it. It's not like him to be this fake with anyone, or even with himself! But Tavros was starting to turn into something he didn't like. He was being untruthful to himself and to others. More importantly ... he was flat-out lying to the only troll he actually cares about.

He was torn again. ]

Yeah ... I know I haven't been around much. It's just- It has been really crazy lately, and I figured that ... I needed to be alone for a while? Uh. I've been trying so hard to be there for you, but I realized that if I'm not well, I'll bring more harm than good and ...

I didn't want to mess things up. So, I apologize, for not being around.

[ Not entirely a lie but he was avoiding the main reason of his absence like a bullet. He looked up to Gamzee again and tried to smile, but it came out a little shaky. ]

... I really wanted to see you, though.

[


'I miss you' ]

[hystericull]

[Gamzee waved a hand hurriedly, as if he could clear away all of the hesitation and doubt and regret that Tavros was so heartily dealing out.]

Nahhh, bro, don't even be all to fuckin' worryin' on that noise, for real!

[He was all grins and teeth, upbeat not only for Tavros but, maybe... maybe for himself, as well. Tavros brought out all of these emotions in him that always seemed to take him by surprise, no matter how much time he spent with the brownblood. It had always been so easy to be happy, to try infecting others with the jubilance he'd felt on a daily basis. He hadn't lost a beat by waking up in the Tower. He'd kept on, trying to cheer people up or help out or stick his nose in where it didn't belong, only with the best intentions.]

[And then the Tower happened. Well, that wasn't entirely it. He guessed... he happened, too. He crashed hard, off of the sopor. All of those pent-up emotions and urges exploding from him like an unstoppable force. Multiple people speaking to him through his own head at all times. He'd lost sight of that happiness. It had seemed so far away, now. It didn't even seem like him, back then. Or, maybe, it didn't seem like he was himself, now. Ugh, it was all so confusing.]

[Right now, though? Right now, he was acting on autopilot. The old, stupid Gamzee was spilling from his mouth and from his hands before he could even give his actions a second thought. When he did have time to realize it, he wanted to laugh and cry at the same time. But that feeling was short-lived, because all he had to do was just look at this boy, and he was back to making a fool out of himself, goofing off and being happy again.]

Motherfuckin' wicked harsh been the haps as of fucking late, yo. This brother be gettin' his feel on of you on that for motherfucking certain.

[He nodded gravely, keeping the smile on, however. It wasn't a chore, now.]

Peeps gotta all do what's bein' right in their fuckin' souls. Or, like, what all they be hearing them little magic fairy motherfuckers squeakin' up in their hear ducts, yeah?

[Gamzee wrapped his arms around the knee of his good leg, which was bent up to allow him a place to rest his chin. Oh, God, he was getting too wrapped up in his relapse into his old self. There was that absolutely smitten look of adoration he used to shamelessly let his face fall into every time he looked at Tavros. Eyelids tugged downwards like he was high off his ass, stupid grin all over his face. What a sorry sight.]

Glad you all did, bro. Been wantin' to get these motherfuckin' gander bulbs of mine at you, too. Ain't been doin' too well what's for my fucking own recently, neither. Maybe it was all like, bein' a good thing we been on a little vacay from the visits, I guess.

[pushedaround]

Yes, but- I don't want us to take any, uh, vacay from each other.

[ He shifted slightly, following Gamzee's lead and bringing his knees up to rest his cheek against them, settling in a way that allowed him to face the highblood and somewhat ... leaning a bit closer to him. Thus, he kept his voice low. Almost as if he was sharing the most secretive piece of information, and he didn't want anyone outside their little circle to hear him. He didn't know why, but he felt -in this very moment- he can open up to his friend.

Just like the old times. But, maybe a little more personal. Just a little! He is still being careful. ]

At the time I didn't know what else to do, but I don't want it to be a habit of mine. I don't want to walk away from my brother. I want to be strong enough to know what to do and get it done. You know?

To be there for you and not ... mess up.

[ He paused before laughing a bit. God, that was pathetic, but it was better than Gamzee assuming that he was avoiding him because he didn't want to deal with his shit or something awful like that. It is unacceptable. Tavros would do anything for him, but he had to learn how to handle situations better and to stay the fuck calm when things take a nasty turn. Knowing the tower, they will have to deal with a lot of difficulties in the future whether they like it or not. It's not something they can avoid.

He's working on it. He'll do whatever it takes to be that person Gamzee can depend on.

For now, he seemed to find extreme comfort as he regarded his brother, and he couldn't keep his eyes off him. It's been a long time since he had seen that smile on Gamzee's features, and he knew he was happy, and god ... it's been a while. He couldn't even remember the last time he'd seen that boy happy and Tavros felt this incredible sense of relief, and-

- He let's out a soft exhale, lips curling up and showing some teeth. ]

But, you know, I'll be better. I promise! Bro promise. Heh.

[ No idea where to start, but he'll figure something out. Later. Now he's focused on other things. ]

First, we need to get that ankle of yours all good again.

[hystericull]

Whoa, whoa, whoaaaaa! Hahaha, kindly be all slowin' that fuckin' noise train of yours all the motherfuck down, my wicked motherfucker!

[Gamzee held his hands up after listening to Tavros' feelings, easing him into cooling his jets just a little bit.]

There be way too much fuckin' sorries all up in them verses you got flowin' at my way just motherfucking now, bro.

[He laughs again, reaching a hand out to place it on the boy's shoulder reassuringly.]

You be my best of motherfuckin' bros, you all are. Greatest of all the bros what's them magical little star peeps got all to pickin' out when they had to up and be deciding who all got to be sharin' that wicked friendship disease, you all fuckin' is.

You ain't never made a motherfucker have no regretsies on bein' up and handed that fuckin' honor of bein' your bro, and you ain't never gonna. All them wicked harshes you been spoutin' off that seem all like nasty things in your eyes ain't all up and bein' nothin' in mine, motherfucker.

Long as we be bros will all be the time when I be fuckin' happiest in my motherfuckin' pump biscuit, you know? Ain't gotta get your worry on at messin' up this, or fuckin' up that. Ain't no broship be founded on what if's, brother. You take that shit as it motherfuckin' come, and you just roll with it as bros, you feel me?

[pushedaround]

[ Tavros listened carefully, nodding once a while, even when he knew Gamzee will lean to the idea of dealing with issues at times and not worry about it beforehand. He was aware of his friend's philosophy and way of thinking, and he had to ... disagree with him.

Tavros tried this approach and look how well it turned out for them. No, he couldn't forget and just go with the flow. He couldn't do that, Gamzee. Maybe it was easier for the highblood to keep such a carefree attitude, since a few significant memories didn't make it to his thinkpan, so- it's probably a lot easier for him, right? Maybe. Fuck, he didn't know! One thing for sure, he couldn't go back to how he used to be. Not when he encountered all that rage. He's pretty sure all he had witnessed before was a mere glimpse of Gamzee's true capacities.

He had a lot of anger, ready to implode, and- he couldn't ignore that. ]

... Yeah. I feel ya'.

[ That's all he could say right now, even when there are still a lot of 'but' and 'what if's' roaming inside his head. For now, he stayed quiet. He then ... gently tipped his head to the side, enough to rest his cheek against the slim fingers on his shoulder, nuzzling softly and closing his eyes; embracing what little comfort the brief contact offered. Gamzee's hand felt cold against his skin. It was ... nice.

Comforting. ]

Alright, brother. I will ... try my best, okay?

[hystericull]

Hahaha! Motherfuckin' wicked, bro.

[Gamzee wiggled his fingers underneath Tavros' cheek, relishing the warm sensation that danced across the backs of them as he did so. It made his bloodpusher flip and his bilesack flop like they'd always done, but he was becoming an old pro at ignoring it - or attempting to, anyway.]

You get all your hardest of tries goin' on that fuckin' shit, and everything be all up and motherfuckin' bitchtits in zero time, yeah?

[Gamzee tilted his head, repositioning his other leg so it wasn't at such an awkward angle, trying not to disturb the leg that had the mangled foot at the end of it, all while avoiding any sudden movements that would make Tavros take his head off of his hand because hhhh. That was doing funny things to his guts.]

Oh. Uh... yeah.

[His broad grin fell to sort of a slant.]

Gotta all throw down just one fucking more not-dope thing, probably.

[...]

Which is to be meaning all, like, more like a sorry, I motherfuckin' guess.

Which I ain't too sure be needing to be said, really, 'cause I ain't all being too motherfucking sure if what's the sorry's for was even all up to be motherfuckin' done or not, but...

[Wow did he ever stop talking.]

Like, ain't been all feelin' too much fuckin' like what's myself feels like, lately, like I all was to be sayin' earlier. Don't really know much on that shit, and it all gets sorta fuzzy-like in the pan when I be fuckin' all tryin' to think on it.

Uh, I mean...

Like, if I all was to be doin' anything what's motherfuckin' would be being unchill at you or nothing recently?

[He really, really fucking hoped he didn't even see Tavros when he was being an assfuck, but everything was so warped and he couldn't remember much of anything, so it was best to cover his bases. The only thing he really remembered was finding him as the Tower collapsed, and those recollections were hazy at best.]

Then it be all sorts of motherfuckin' shames on me, yo. Ain't would never wanna up and do nothin' to get a harsh goin' at you or nothing.

[He offered a smile. He hadn't done anything like that, anyway, right?]

Honk.

[pushedaround]

[ You know that guilt? The guilt he was trying so hard to neglect? Yeah. He couldn't ignore it anymore. It returned with vengeance and now it's Tavros' turn to raise his hands and stop the highblood from getting more words out of his mouth.

He was no longer nuzzling into his hand like a lovesick puppy, instead he twisted his body to face Gamzee, staring at him dead serious. At least, his tone came out calm. A little rough but he didn't sound angry. ]

Gamzee.

You have absolutely nothing to apologize for. Nothing! The last thing you need to say to me is 'I'm sorry' or 'If I have done anything to upset you' or ... anything within that area! So, please, never apologize. Not right now anyway because ... you haven't done anything bad, okay?

You didn't cross any boundaries or red lines. You didn't ... do anything inappropriate or-

Uh.

Didn't do anything that is considered disgusting and and .... so unacceptable and then felt good about it !

[ s t o p

talking. Now.

Tavros swallowed thickly before he turned his head to the side, eyes on the water again. Yes, he needs to keep his mouth shut and simply breathe in the fresh air. It should help, right? Since he didn't have a fucking moirail to pap and shoosh him into submission, he had to do it on his own. It's so ridiculous. One minute he was calm and happy, the next he wanted to throw himself on the ground and claw things.

He didn't allow it to happen, though. He'll just have to cover up for that small slip and blame it on not being well again. ]

I mean- there is no need to say 'I'm sorry' to a brother. I'm sure we will forgive each other, no matter how badly one of us screwed up.

[ He looks at Gamzee. ]

... You will always forgive a bro, right?

[hystericull]

Wh--

[Gamzee began to raise his hands up, to halt Tavros mid-rant and explain to him that, no, it ain't worth all the noise, brother. But, maybe this was something that Tavros had to say for himself? To make himself feel better? Gamzee closed his trap, shoved his hands in his lap, and just, gawked at the slew of confusing sentences that came barreling his way.]

[Telling him not to apologize, because he hadn't done anything wrong? Okay. He could get that! He didn't really think he'd had any contact with Tavros for the past few weeks, save for the recent Tower disaster. But... wait. Red... lines? Inappropriate? Disgusting? Unacceptable??? Oh, no, no. No, oh no.]

Ha ha, oh, shit, brother, that ain't bein' what fuckin' all I was up at meaning in the motherfuckin' slightest! I, uh--

[Tavros was looking back out over the lake. He looked so upset. So conflicted. ...Did Gamzee say something wrong? He didn't mean anything like that by his apologies - in fact, he knew all too well where Tavros stood on that particular issue, and he'd thought they were well past that fuckup of sweeps past. How it even was brought up again here was fucking lost on him.]

I didn't-- Er, ah, uhhh... what?

F-forgive?

[The fuck was even happening right now. Didn't matter. When you didn't get something, it was best to just ride it out - go with the flow, like he'd just instructed Tavros to do. Everything would fall into place eventually if you just went with it. He smiled gently, reconsidering his approach to the whole thing.]

'Course I all would, motherfucker. You'd better all get your good know on of that noise, for fuckin' real. 'Course, heh, that'd be all to motherfucking imply that you'd ever be doin' somethin' what's all gotta be up and motherfuckin' forgiven for, firstly.

And, bro, this motherfucker be pretty wicked certain that ain't never gonna be a thing that's all gonna fuckin' be happening.

[pushedaround]

Brother ...

[ He couldn't take it anymore. Gamzee was saying all those nice things and going on with how he's all certain that Tavros would never do anything wrong to him, and- he seriously couldn't take this. It was suffocating him. He didn't want to keep up with all the pity lies and acts.

Gamzee deserved better. He deserved some honesty. He deserved so much more.

Tavros is fucking terrified, though. He is facing the risk of losing this friendship, losing Gamzee's trust and that scared him more than anything in this tower. The air felt heavy around them, but he was surprisingly steady. Well, if you ignored his trembling fingers and the heat around his cheeks, he should look calm enough. He managed to force himself to settle down, and once he did he returned their eye contact.

He's not smiling this time. ]

Nah, bro. I ... messed up.

I really messed up. I- Uh.

[ Oh god, this is harder than he thought. Tavros felt incredibly sick to his stomach but kept going anyway. ]

I don't ... really want to tell you what happened, exactly, but you need to know that I ... did something I'm not proud of. I w-won't be doing it again, not within those circumstances, for sure, or ... ever? I don't know. Uhhhh. But ... It's really unchill of me. I just ... can't lie to you, brother. If you want to know, I could tell you, but-

[ He didn't know if he was brave enough to say it. Fuck. ]

I ... I'm really sorry. I-I don't know ... what happened or why and it's just ... I don't want to lie to you anymore! And-

[ He's not making any sense. He knew that, but he couldn't stop ... talking! The following words came out louder than intended and somewhat forced. ]

Just-- don't be mad at me for too long! O-Okay?

[hystericull]

[When Tavros turned to look at him again, Gamzee's hopeful grin was met with a miserable scowl. Somewhat taken aback by his friend's unhappy demeanor, Gamzee soon felt his own smile fade. He listened intently, expression turning concerned after Tavros' first few sentences. It wasn't so much the content of the sentences, but how they were making Tavros act that bothered him. Never before had he seen him so burdened. Of course, he'd had his fair share of stress - dealing with the paralysis and being confined to a wheelchair, suddenly having to depend on others for so much. It takes a great toll on someone, and Gamzee had seen that unease on him before, but it wasn't quite the same as the look Tavros was giving him now.]

[Gamzee wanted desperately to wipe that look off of Tavros' face. Wanted to say or do something to crack this almost spellbound look on the boy's face as he alluded to some vague, unspeakable acts he may have committed in the recent past. Gamzee didn't know. The truth was, he didn't care. He was being completely honest when he said it wouldn't matter to him if ever Tavros went and fucked up somehow. So blindly devoted to this troll was he, that he'd forgive any and all trespasses against him or anything else in the fucking world in an instant.]

[He just had to figure out how to calm him down. Gamzee waited until Tavros had stopped speaking for quite some time, to make sure he'd gotten it all out - and that last, stammered plea was a pretty good indication of just that - and had nothing more to say. He took a breath in, before returning the smile to his face. It wasn't as wide as before, only because it wouldn't be quite the proper response in lieu of recent sentiments.]

Tavros. My most mystical and motherfuckin' adorable of fairy-chasin' slam poets. When all has this motherfucker ever been up to havin' to get the lowdown on any fuckin' noise what's bein' all up to transpire around him?

[This was not as assertive as he wanted it to be. But, fucking hell, how could he be assertive to Tavros!?]

What I'm all gettin' at meaning - and what's more, doin' up all a motherfucking piss-poor job on it - is that you ain't gotta be tellin' in me not one more fuckin' word on shit you ain't deeming all motherfuckin' fit to be told, yo.

[He leaned forward, sliding their torsos together as he wrapped his bony arms around Tavros' shoulders and gave a squeeze. Poor boy looked like he was in dire need of about six-thousand hugs. Well, five-thousand, nine-hundred and ninety-nine hugs, now. Gamzee was well prepared to dish out the remaining balance, too.]

[He couldn't quite maneuver his head over Tavros' shoulder to complete the hug, so he rested the sides of their heads together, speaking into the boy's ear.]

I ain't never gonna be mad at you, motherfucker. No matter what you all up and get to doin'. So, whatever it all be you be gettin' your jumpies on about, consider it to be not even no fuckin' thing no more, you hear?

[pushedaround]

[ He really didn't expect any of this, mainly the embrace. It took him a while to process the situation and notice that Gamzee is not mad at him, and had completely forgiven him regardless of what he had done. The fuck? Tavros' eyebrows furrowed, half-scowling at the empty space behind them, not really getting what the fuck is going on!

Regardless, his body reacted to the embrace in the most casual approach, hands reaching out to hold into Gamzee's back. They stayed there for a bit before he guided his right one to curl his fingers against the back of the highblood's neck, leveling his head with his own, lips close to the other's ear as well. ]

... o-okay.

[ No, what. Is Gamzee being serious about this? Can he really get away with so many things? Tavros was still a little shaken, but he was doing a good job in settling down, but not yet acknowledging their closeness. Not consciously, anyway. His breathing was uneven, his chest rising and falling as he struggled to find enough composure to be able to think again. With their current closeness, he managed to pick up the highblood unique scent, and it triggered some intimate memories. He ignores it, or-- tries to. ]

So ... you, uh, forgive me? Um. Okay.

I should ... forget about it, and ... pretend it never happened or it did, but all is excused, or something ... Yeah?

[ Just making sure here, because ... fuck, he knew they were good friends, but Gamzee is taking this to a whole new level. It's not like Tavros felt differently, he would forgive Gamzee for anything and everything, but ... he is Tavros! So that doesn't count. He apologized to Vriska for killing him! However, Gamzee is different, and after experiencing all that rage, the lowblood expected the absolute worst. ]

... That simple, huh? All forgiven.

[ His body felt heavy, shifting more of his weight against Gamzee's slender form; the hand on his back gripped into his shirt gently. ]

.... Okay. I hear you, my best friend.

[ He closed his eyes, pressing closer; clinging. ]

You promised. You promised that you'll never be mad at me ... that w-was a promise, right?

[hystericull]

[Excuse him while he sits there, listening to Tavros speak right up against his ear, feeling his warmth against his naked face, breathing him in as he often did when they embraced. However, prior embraces were not as lengthy, so he did take a moment to revel in this. He hoped Tavros didn't notice.]

[The boy sounds desperate, anxious. Gamzee had no idea what is was that had him all worked up like this, but it was something he needed to make go away. Without asking for specifics, it made the task a little more difficult, but nothing impossible. He tried keeping his actions safe, platonic, friendly. He took a breath in, patting his bony hand against Tavros' back gently.]

Yeah, yeah, you bet it all fuckin' was, bro. No more frettin' on that noise, yeah? Like I just was all to be motherfuckin' saying at you - just up and get your fuckin' relax on, motherfucker. It's cool, it all fuckin' chill with us.

[His voice was calm, and he tried to be as reassuring as possible. The hand that had been patting the boy's back was now making excruciatingly slow treads up and down his spine. Not too far, not too fast, gotta keep this in the friend zone. He couldn't afford to fuck shit up. He just wanted some level ground, here.]

You can be all forgetting, or gettin' your remember on of it, or tellin' me or not tellin' me or whatever the fuck it is you all need to be motherfuckin' doing, my little bro. After that, and more fuckin' importantly, we get fuckin' rid all of this motherfucking weirdness aura we got goin' on here. Though I ain't much too fuckin' sure what's all it got it's originate on from in the first fuckin' place, a bro will gladly be the motherfucker to send it fucking packing.

[He finally pulled back, figuring that was nearing the boundary of too much contact. His hands still remained on Tavros' shoulders, however, and he laughed.]

Smile for me, motherfucker. Oh, how I be all wishin' that you fuckin' would!

[pushedaround]

[ It would be nice if he heard half of the things Gamzee had said. It probably had to do with how he should forget about it, move on, life is beautiful and short. Maybe? One thing for sure, he knew Gamzee supported him, and that's all he needs right now. It was almost disheartening when the highblood pulled away from him, and Tavros tried his best not to look so miserable about it, but he's certainly .... not cooperating. Haha. Gamzee will have to, literally, push that useless piece of lump off him, which he probably did as he held his shoulders, otherwise Tavros would have stayed leaning on the other. Forever.

Why did he have to break the hug, though? So unfair.

He stared at him, blinking slowly and lashes low. At least, he was focused enough to understand what Gamzee is asking him to do, and how can he deny his red crush any request? Yeah, a crush. He decided it's time to suck it up, be honest with himself and embrace his pathetic fate of drooling over the troll who could have been his matesprit, but he was so fucking late to notice and missed his chance. But, hey, he was asking him something. He wanted him to smile, didn't he? That's all? He'll smile for all eternity if he had to. ]

Anything for you, brother.

[ He smiled. In fact, he stretched his lips even more, showing off all his sharp teeth and eyes firmly shut, making a somewhat ridiculous face while wiggling the tip of his ears playfully. ]

How about this smile, bro? Heh.

[ He chuckles, a bit tired, but his mood was lightening up for sure. He decided to stop being so difficult and finally freed Gamzee from holding him off, pulling away to settle back on the ground. He reached out to ruffle Gamzee's wild hair briefly. ]

Thanks, man. I'm all chill now. Sorta. I have no idea what started all of this weirdness between us- [ Another white lie. Oh, he's getting good at this! Tavros is not sure whether that was a good thing or bad. Wait, that's definitely ... not something to be proud of. ] -but, I don't think it will last. Bros for life, remember? We're just ... going through some rough time, but we're still holding up.

Um. I guess I need a little more time to, uhh, calm down, but I'll be happy as long as you are well. That's all I need.

[hystericull]

[He hadn't really noticed before, but Tavros was in a rare state. He knew things had been weighing on the boy's mind, but the way he leaned into him suggested that he was in need of some attention - someone to listen. Who did he have here in the Tower? Gamzee couldn't be sure what friends he'd made during his stay here, if he was close enough with any of them to share what was troubling him. If that was the case, and he didn't have anyone else to turn to (seeing as Gamzee was probably the one out of all of their mutual friends here that Tavros was the closest to, now that Vriska was gone. ...Fucking Vriska.) then Gamzee would have to reconsider telling Tavros to drop it. After all, he... knew what happened when you tried forgetting. It just came back to bite you in the ass.]

[This train of thought was quickly derailed by Tavros' attempt at a smile. It sent Gamzee's pump biscuit fluttering at about a million miles an hour, grin splitting his own face to match in record time, and despite the sputtering and desperate snorting he was trying to hold back to contain his laughter, the attempt was about as futile as trying to get Tavros to stop being so fucking adorable.]

Hahahahahahahahahahonkhonkhonkhonkhonk!!!

[God, he hadn't laughed in forever. He wanted to just lean the fuck forward and kiss all over the kid's face, but even if he actually had the balls to, he would have to stop pissing himself laughing first. It was actually sort of painful, because Gamzee didn't just chuckle and get it over with - when something struck him, he fucking laughed it out until he couldn't breathe, until purple tears were rolling down his face and he had to fall over on his side because he couldn't hold himself up any more. It hurt his ankle a lot to be flailing around like this, but he couldn't fucking help it! That face was too hilarious to ignore and not immediately dissolve into a laughing, honking mess.]

[Oh, God, he was so in love with him.]

[NO STOP. That wasn't the thought he meant to have! He would just prop himself back up on his elbows, staring up at those shiny, sharp teeth and trying to mimic the expression himself. Gamzee scrunched his wet eyes all up, pulling the corners of his mouth as far as they could go, revealing his own set of crooked, pointy teeth. He was thinking it was good like this - just bros like old times, hanging out and being stupid and not having any of this other shit floating around between them. And then Tavros' hand was in his hair and he was saying all of these nice things - but the most important part was the fact that he was talking about being friends. That was his cue, that was his hint, and he nodded enthusiastically in response.]

Let a brother know what all he can be fuckin' doing to be helping a motherfucker sort his shit out, won't you?

[pushedaround]

[ Of course, naturally, Tavros couldn't keep a straight face when Gamzee lost all his cool and started an episode of hysterical laughter. The lowblood lost it as well, gasping and chuckling uncontrollably at the respond, not really expecting it ... considering the circumstances. However, he was so fucking happy to see that nothing had changed between them, and he can still make the highblood laugh to tears over the stupidest things. It felt so refreshing, to hear nothing but the sound of their laughter in the air and when he finally forced his eyes open, he noted Gamzee's grin, trying to mimic him earlier. He could have survived that face without embarrassing himself easy, but as soon as he noticed that Gamzee had some tears in his eyes from all the laughing, Tavros couldn't help but to stare at him like a lovesick puppy. He is beyond help at this point.

Tavros was a little flustered, but he didn't panic, only because he can easily blame the intense laughter for all the warmth. So, it's not weird or anything, right?? He did, however, rub on his cheeks to make it go away. Just in case. ]

Heh, well- if you really want to help a brother out, you can start by promising me a couple of things.

Are you ready for this?

[ Whether he was or not, Tavros didn't wait for a response. Instead, he raised his index finger, almost in a lecture-like manner, but still smiling down at his beloved friend. Since Gamzee is in a good mood now, he might as well take advantage of it. Get a few things done. ]

First, you need to promise me that you'd be more responsible about your injury and give yourself enough time to recover. Don't be walking around, going on adventures with a swollen ankle. That's not right.

Second, I need you to ... start eating more. [ His smile softened a little, looking a tad concerned here. ] I hope I'm not crossing any boundaries by saying this, brother. But you're not looking as healthy as you used to. I know the food is awful in the cafeteria, but ... if I managed to find something better, will you promise me that you'd eat more? Uhh, I can promise you it will be something delicious and worthy for your tummy! Only the best for my brother.

[ He paused, muttering 'what else' to himself while rubbing at his chin. He knew had a fucking long list of concerns, but he had to narrow it down so he won't overwhelm Gamzee. ]

I don't know how to say this without sounding like a complete ass, but-- you, uh, need to put yourself first? I mean- You tend to worry about everyone before yourself. While I do love that thing about you, it what makes you such a great friend to me and all the other trolls, but I think .... right now ... you need to focus on yourself, alright brother?

[hystericull]

[Gamzee had first thought that this was going to be a game. More playful banter to go along with in jest. He nodded his head fervently, still grinning wide from the fits of laughter they'd just endured. His eyes crossed as Tavros held up his finger, each one trying to focus on its tip before the other, operating independently of each other. It was something he did quite often, much to other people's disgust. It didn't matter! They were finally having fun and goofing around and--]

[...Oh.]

[Oh, man, Tavros was nagging him. Oh fuck, oh fuck, what did this mean? Did he...? Was he...? Could he even possibly be...!? No, that was stupid. That was so stupid and Gamzee was stupid for even letting that thought cross his mind, even half-formed as it was. The grin had fallen off of his face somewhere between the talk of the ankle and the food - now his face was twisted up in some sort of surprised, ashamed expression, like a woofbeast being chastised when they know they've done wrong.]

Had someone what's was all up and offering them sorts of services all at my motherfucking way. But, uh...

[The Dolorosa. She'd take him down to the cafeteria, bring him food, watch him eat. He'd begun to look forward to the time they'd spend together. Look forward to meals, even if he didn't want to eat them. Even if they made his stomach flop all around and make funny noises and sometimes he got sick from it, but not all the time, but whatever happened or didn't happen, it was all worth it if he got to spend time with her.]

But she ain't here no fuckin' more.

[He shrugged his shoulders simply. That's how it went. People came into your life, and they left. And there was nothing you could do about it. Just had to cherish the time that you were blessed with together - a lesson that had been solidified over and over again in his head.]

But, uh, like... I'll be all up to gettin' down with doin' the shit that way with you. I mean, ain't like I all be gettin' my motherfuckin' harsh on at the whole foody thing. 'S just... I ain't all much up and remembering on it, mostly?

[His eyebrows drew up apologetically, and he looked at Tavros for some sort of forgiveness. He really did forget, sometimes. Just because he was off of sopor right now didn't mean the holes he'd made in his pan had been magically filled. He forgot a lot of things all the time.]

Cafeteria ain't got nothin' but them motherfuckin' shitnutbars and I'm keen to all be up and motherfucking thinking the next time a brother all get his sights on one of them bitches, he all gonna have one motherfuck of an upturned bilesack to be contending with, he all fuckin' is.

But...

[The confused expression now turned a little hopeful. He was going to try and brush Tavros' concern off as best as he could. Be reassuring, agree to his demands. What did he have to gain by resisting, anyway?]

Gotta make sure you be gettin' your fuckin' sustenances as motherfucking well, bro. Maybe we all could be like, getting our eats on in togetherness or something?

[Gamzee was doing a good job of keeping this upbeat. Up until that last part, that is. He chuckled halfheartedly in response, giving a listless shrug. He wasn't going to succumb to the scowl that was tugging at the corners of his mouth. He was going to keep this smile on, dammit!]

Believe you fuckin' me, bro. This motherfucker ain't been no kinds of friends to no one lately. So, uh... guess you all don't be having to get your worries on that noise! Heheheh.

[HEH. HEH. Sheepish smile??? Stop bringing up weird shit???]

[pushedaround]

Heh, no problem, Gamzee! If you want it to be a thing, eating together that is, I'll be more than happy to join you. Who knows? Maybe we can cheer each other up, and it might be fun. Sorta?

[ Truth to be told, he's not really that fond of the cafeteria meals and thus- he ends up forcing himself to consume that food every single time. It was gross and he despised it, but he knew better than to starve himself and push his body into exhaustion. Hell, he needed all the energy he can get! And Gamzee needed it, too. Maybe more since he seemed to be a magnet to all kinds of tower abuse. He's not going to say that, though. ]

We can meet up there, or I can come and find you? [ A shrug. ] Whatever works for you, bro.

[ He had a lot of things to add, possibly more unnecessary concerns, but all is forgotten when he noticed the way Gamzee's expression changed despite all efforts to keep that smile as bright as ever. He didn't say anything at first, but Tavros' smile was slowly fading away. He really couldn't keep a happy face, not after Gamzee's little confession.

He just ... sounds so lonely.

It hurts ... for many reasons, mostly because he remembered that he was deliberately avoiding the highblood for the past few weeks, and he wondered if Gamzee thought that he didn't want to be his friend anymore or something like that. Again, he feels like a complete and utter ass. The guilt is as strong as ever. But, he had a feeling Gamzee wasn't talking about him. Maybe he was referring to the other trolls? Or his tower friends? Not sure.

It took him a while, but the smile returned, gentle and somewhat apologetic. He then rolled to his side, settling on his stomach, elbows propped and facing the highblood. It was a humble approach, lowering himself to his level instead of staring down at him like earlier. It didn't feel right, for some reason. Plus, it was a lot easier to look at him from where he's resting now. ]

I'm sure that's not true, bro. You have a lot friends here.

[ If he didn't feel like talking about it, Tavros would never force him into anything he's uncomfortable with, but he was hoping, wishing that he would talk to him a little. Then again, he had to stop himself and wonder if he's crossing any lines here. ]

Uh. I know I'm not your pale bro or anything, but I can still hear you out. If you want? If you don't, that's alright. I just, um, really miss the times when we used to tell each other everything. I know there are things ... you don't want to share with me, but I just want you to know that there is nothing you can say that gonna change the way I, uh- feel about you.

You'll always be the best brother I could ever ask for.

[hystericull]

[He perks up at the suggestion of making the shared meals a Thing. A little self-indulgent? Maybe. But, as selfless as Gamzee usually was, he was finding that it was becoming more and more commonplace for him to gear his niceties so that they'd end up benefiting him more. ...Or, maybe Tavros was just making a friendly offer and he was happy to take him up on it? Was it such a crime? Did there always have to be some ulterior motive to everything? When did he start thinking like that???]

[Letting those awkward thoughts empty out of his pan, he sighed happily, nodding in earnest.]

Motherfuck yeah, motherfucker! Shit sounds all like to be being the best of fuckin' times what this brother ever did have in the past few motherfuckin' perigrees! Honk!

[Aw, he couldn't help but honk. It was exciting, actually having something to look forward to, instead of dragging himself around every day, trying to stay out of trouble and simultaneously trying to distract himself for all of the scratching in his pan that only fell silent when he sought out his moirail.]

[Don't... don't flutter, pump biscuit. Don't flip around when Tavros slides on to his belly all cute-like. When his smile fades, but then returns sure as the sun and the moons are set to fuckin rise. Everything was bitchtits until they had to talk about this shit again. It set the little back part of his pan burning all up like it did when it was doing a thing he was trying to ignore. It wasn't very much anger as it was... a bundle and flurry of mad sad feelings right in his chest that wasn't a pain like the one in his ankle, all sharp and needly - this was a feeling more dull and achey and heavy, and that feeling was the feeling that started him being all angry.]

[Fuck it all, fuck these stupid thoughts. As soon as he kicked them out and closed the proverbial door on them, they sure as shit found a way right back at his skull.]

[This was a catch-22 if he ever saw one. And if he ever knew what a catch-22 actually was. If he denied Tavros this conversation to better his mental health and not risk the boy seeing him get into one of his more unimpressive of moods, then he'd be sending the message that he couldn't open up to him, or that he didn't want to confide in him. One was more true than the other, but they were both basically wrong! It was the second statement from the boy that solidified this. By not opening his trap about all of this hoofbeastshit, he could continue to be the best brother Tavros could ever ask for. Put a lid on this weirdness clawing up at his insides, put a lid on the redness that was burning in his guts and his blood pusher for him, put a lid on it all and go back to the friend that Tavros loved, back when he... was on...]

[The slime.]

[Well, he finally figured out what he'd be having for his lunches from now on.]

Shit, motherfucker. Ditto's all up at back to you on that wicked motherfuckin' noise, yo! Just been gettin' a little weirdness flowin' up from my fingers and toes and eyeballs as of fuckin' late. Nothin' what's all to be being too fuckin' concerned at, you know?

'Sup all with your fuckin' self, though, bro? What you all been busying your little self with when's we ain't gettin' our mutual looks on of one another, hmm?

[pushedaround]

[ So he decided not to talk to him. Tavros is not really surprised, and he'd like to pretend that he prepared himself for it and therefor- it wouldn't hurt as bad as it should, but ... no preparation could make him feel okay about this.

It's not okay at all.

If it was any other troll, he wouldn't give a shit. Whether he had feelings for him or not, Tavros needed Gamzee. He needed, at least, one attentive voice in his pathetic existence. Maybe it's his fault that he allowed himself to depend on him to that level, but now that he started feeling all kinds of pity toward him -and thus developed red feels- it was harder than ever to be okay with how things are going down between them. Yeah, he can pretend that he just wants to be his friend and all that shit, but he's not okay with this whole 'weird distance'. A few laughs later and it's still lingering in the air. Tavros is getting fucking desperate here.

But, he'll have to take Gamzee's advice and just 'roll with it'.

That's what he wants, right? Ignore things and just move on. Pretend everything is fine and sunshine when it's not. Act all happy when they couldn't be more miserable. It's how he handled things, but Tavros was the complete opposite. It's why he is struggling so hard right now, only because he was so used to be a fucking open book and say whatever his heart desires, and all he wanted to do right now is ask Gamzee why is he acting this way.

Yeah. If that's what he truly wants- Tavros can, at least, give it an honest try. ]

... Yeah. I guess. I haven't been talking or seeing anyone lately so I kinda get it? It's, uh, hard to keep up with everyone in this huge tower.

[ Flat out lie. He can easily keep up with the others. He just didn't want to. Not right now anyway. He still needed some time to get over himself, and now that he made sure Gamzee is all breathing, maybe he can get some rest done.

He then perks up a little, showing some teeth, even when the exhaustion was slowly taking over his features. ]

I haven't been doing anything interesting, just, uh, trying to get some sleep, and ... when I'm bored I kinda go out and commune sometimes? I mean- it would be nice if I can cross off 'being eaten alive by a monster' out of my list of concerns in this tower. Heh.

[ He shifts his gaze to the side, idly staring at Gamzee's ankle in the water. ]

Gotta do what we can to keep ourselves distracted, you feel me?

[hystericull]

[A lazy smile made its way across Gamzee's face as he listened to Tavros talk. The melody of his voice was so distracting sometimes. On the flipside of Tavros' emotions, Gamzee was desperately clinging to the rhythm of the other boy's speaking to lull himself into a false sense of security. It was almost, almost like being back home. If he just concentrated a little harder, listened a little more, he was almost there! He was too dumb to notice all of the emotions battling inside of Tavros even as he spoke so casually.]

[Oh God, communing, he was so cute.]

Hahaha, yeah, bro! Always be gettin' my most fuckin' keenest of observes on at when all you get your chit chats on with them furbeasts and shit like what's that all motherfucking is.

[Gamzee laughed at the joke. Because it was funny, and because he liked jokes, and because he was still so obscenely smitten that he'd laugh at just about anything even remotely resembling humor that came out of Tavros' mouth.]

Yeah, yeah, I feel you, brother.

[The way Tavros drifted off was sort of unlike him, Gamzee thought. It was definitely like Gamzee, but not like Tavros. Sure, the kid got off-track sometimes, bouncing from one topic to the other in excitement, but he never drifted off into a melancholy zone like he was doing now. Gamzee knew shit had been fucked on his end, but he was suddenly feeling a stab of uncertainty about just how his best bro was holding up. He'd said he was fine, but... was he? Was Tavros even capable of lying? Wouldn't hurt to ask, right? Needed to make sure there weren't any bullies giving him grief over God-knows-what.]

...Bro? Yo, Alternia-or-whatever-the-motherfuck-we-all-up-in to my little dope ass motherfucker here?

[He crawled forward on his elbows, just a smidge, trying desperately not to move his ankle too much. Reaching a bony hand out, he tugged on the hem of Tavros' jacket, trying to win his attention again.]

Bro. Hey, brother, you all right, dog? Got somethin' you all be needin' to up and lay the fuck down on a motherfucker?

[pushedaround]

[ Regardless of Gamzee's approach, Tavros made no attempt to break his stare from the water. He swallowed thickly, somewhat shaking his head before shrugging. ]

... I don't know.

I honestly don't know what to do anymore. I don't know how to react, think and speak when a friend of mine is going through some rough time. That's why I spent most of my life dismissing problems and ignoring things instead of confronting them.

I guess ... a part of me was so terrified of failing that I figured why bother trying anyway, and I was ... fine with it, you know? I was fine with keeping a distance. I didn't mind being left in the shadows. It meant I had fewer responsibilities, and I thought that would be the best for everyone.

[ He let's out a shaky breath, his tone a bit raw at this point. ]

So I kinda get it. I get why you ... feel like you have to hold back around me. I have never been there for you before, and I haven't been a good friend, but Gamzee ...

Brother, I-

[ He forced himself to sit up again, pulling away from the highblood's touch, back arched forward and hands pressed against his face. It was a lot easier to do this when Gamzee couldn't see that pathetic look on his face, and maybe -for a brief second- he can pretend that he is completely alone right now and he's not embarrassing himself in front of the boy he loved so much. It's just ... it was too much! He felt like he couldn't fucking breathe anymore, and a part of him wanted to excuse himself and leave, but- it was too late.

Plus, he didn't want to walk away from this. He wanted to be strong enough to express himself without fucking up! This whole lying thing is not working out very well, and Tavros is pretty sick of it. He kept hiding behind his digits and only pulling away when he decided that he's calm enough to confront Gamzee again. ]

I c-can't ... pretend everything is okay. I just can't! I can't ... do it and I know ... y-you want me to do it, but I can't ignore my brother when he's in pain. When he's all miserable, and ... I- uh.

[ Awh fuck! Give him a minute to clean up a little. It would've been so much easier to wipe those gross tears off his face if his fucking fingers cooperate and stop shaking so much! In some point, he was so annoyed he just started rubbing his wrist all over his face, possibly spreading the tears everywhere while sniffling grossly. It didn't help that his nose, cheeks and ears were all flushed and screaming brown and ... he didn't care really. It's not like it was the first time he'd cried in front of Gamzee. ]

I d-don't know what to do to help out, but I'm pretty sure ignoring it won't solve anything, a-and I think we need to stop doing this to each other.

I don't want to lose you. I can't afford to lose you, and you know that! You know that ...

I just ... want you to be happy again.

[hystericull]

[What Gamzee was expecting was maybe a lighthearted chuckle. A dismissive wave of hands. A silly shake of the head. What Gamzee was expecting was not this at all.]

[When that turned out not to be the case, the curious smirk fell clean off of his face, replaced immediately with a disbelieving expression, lips parting in an unasked question.]

[Gamzee knew Tavros had self-image issues. He knew his bro had a hard time remembering the fact that he was basically the most awesome and important thing to ever exist. Gamzee tried his best to remind him every day of that fact, but clearly he'd been slipping in that department. Tavros thought he didn't matter. Didn't deserve to meddle in things that were causing him grief because he'd thought that no one wanted him there. He felt his chest tighten up, pushing himself upright as well to get a better assessment of the situation.]

[His voice came scrambling out in protest as Tavros insulted himself again and again, but the words got backed up in his throat as he heard the shaky tone running through those words of his. He was at a loss. Was this another dream? Was Tavros really saying these things to him? Was he really stuttering this bad like he did with everyone else? Was Gamzee just like everyone else to him, now? Why was he...]

[Oh, fuck. Oh, fuck no. As soon as Tavros' voice broke and his hands flew to his face, Gamzee was scratching at the sandy ground, grabbing at anything he could get a grip on to pull himself towards the boy. He probably looked fucking pathetic, pushing himself across the shore with his good knee, grabbing fistfuls of sand and rock and wincing as his swollen ankle was dragged out of the water and up on to land.]

[Through a twist of limbs and a few blasts of intense pain, he was tangled in Tavros. Too-long arms snaked around the boy's torso, legs folded up at his side - one laying awkwardly on its own - moving his head lower and lower to try and catch Tavros' gaze.]

Bro, bro... bro! Tavros... brother, hey...

[Gamzee was devastated. This is what fucking happened when he tried to make things better. This is what happened when he tried doing and fixing things on his own. He always, always ended up hurting people with his fucking stupidity. By trying to shield Tavros from all of the bad things in Gamzee, he single-handedly made him believe that he wasn't good enough to hear his best friend's problems.]

Shhh, shhh. Hush now, my little bro. Gonna all up and rip my motherfuckin' pump biscuit right out if I gotta get my glances on at any more dribblin' melty chocolate, you feel me?

[He was still hunched over, looking up at Tavros with pleading eyes. He moved a hand from where it was placed on the boy's shoulder to wipe at the wetness that had coated his cheeks. Gamzee was pretty sure he would rather fall off the side of the Tower before he had to watch Tavros cry for one more second.]

I's only meaning all for you to not get your sadness on, by bein' all happy for you, brother. Thought if a brother got his smile goin' for you all the time, you'd be givin' him one back what's just the same. Didn't wanna ever have you feelin' nothin' but the most happiest of noise all up in your motherfuckin' fluttercage, I all didn't.

[Gamzee straightened up, resting a cool palm against Tavros' burning cheek, pulling him a little closer with the arm that was still wrapped around his shoulders. He sucked a breath in, easing Tavros to look him in the eye.]

You got more worries up in your fuckin' self than I all was to be even knowing, motherfucker. Can't be being any more motherfuckin' sorry on that oversight, bro. You ain't never gonna be losing me, though.

...Silly.

[He laughed a little sadly at that, looking down for a moment before returning his focus.]

We'll talk, brother. We'll shoot that motherfuckin' shit so hard if it only all means that you won't be cryin' for me no more. 'Cause fuckin' tits knows I ain't all worth a damn of that noise.

[pushedaround]

[ He sniffled and rubbed at his eyes again, making the tears disappear for a second before coming back. He listened to Gamzee, and he listened carefully, and as soon as he uttered that last line, Tavros groaned bitterly and shook his head, looking at him straight in the eye. ]

You're worth so much more, Gamzee.

[ He smiled a little. If only he knew his true worth to Tavros, then he wouldn't dare to speak those words again. For now, the lowblood focused on his friend's attempt in consoling him, and in reflex- Tavros felt a familiar sense of relief easing away his anxiety, and his little panic episode was slowly reduced to sniffles and gentle gasps. He was still a little shaky, but the smile was going strong. It was a sheepish, apologetic one because, wow, he totally lost it in front of the highblood and that was kinda embarrassing. He really didn't want to settle to tears like he was some kind of useless grub, but it just happened and- nothing can be done now.

He felt like a total idiot, but he was slightly- happy? In this very moment, he felt ... safe. Gamzee had his arms around him and is now touching his cheek and talking to him in a soothing tone ..... perfect. He is perfect.

Tavros took a deep breath, mouth wide open, almost in a playful manner before letting it out. His smile was a bit brighter now, regardless of the slight burn in his eyes and the wet lashes. ]

I'm sorry, bro. I didn't mean to express my feelings this way. I guess I lost it a little? Haha. Not cool ...

I mean ... I want to be involved in your life like I should have been. I'm willing to take responsibility and look after my brother, and I know I'm not that ... strong right now, but I can change. Allow me to change, yeah? Just trust me to be there for you. I can handle it. Like I said, there is nothing you can say or do that will make me walk away.

[ He keeps his eyes locked with Gamzee's, not breaking the stare or even blinking. It was not as awkward as he thought it would be, but he then remembered how the highblood seemed a little uncomfortable with keeping the embrace for a long period of time, so he nodded, gesturing to him that's he's okay now, and he can let go if he wanted.

No, wait. He had a better idea. Soon after, Tavros shifted a little, breaking free from Gamzee's hold, but before the highblood could escape, he hooked their arms together, clinging to his side, legs kneed up. This way, Gamzee didn't have to feel uneasy with their embrace, and Tavros had something to hold onto. Both parties win, right?

He looked up to him, voice calm yet somewhat needy. ]

Talk to me, brother. What's going on with you?

[hystericull]

[Gamzee hummed a little in gratitude, fangs poking out over his bottom lip with an appreciative smile. He didn't care that Tavros had broken down a little - even if it did wrench his heart in two to see, at least it let Gamzee know there was something seriously different going on than what he'd imagined. Sometimes Gamzee was well-meaning, sometimes not, but most of the time, he had to have things laid out for him pretty simply instead of trying to pick up on subtle cues. He was trying really, really hard to not focus on the fact that he was able to put his hands all over Tavros right now, because that was a shitty thing to think when the kid was in such a state... but he couldn't fucking help it! Oh, God, he was such a stupid, creepy asshole.]

[But, Tavros was smiling now. It was a much better sight than his earlier display. What he was saying though, left Gamzee conflicted for multiple reasons.]

I ain't the most happiest brother at having to be gettin' my look on at you all motherfuckin' steeped in lugubriousness and shit, but... I ain't never wanting you to be actin' in ways that ain't exactly what you be feelin' all up in your magical little pump biscuit, you know?

[Wow, what a load of hypocritical horseshit. His hand fell from Tavros' cheek to fiddle with the hem of his filthy shirt awkwardly.]

I just like... wasn't all knowing whether or not a motherfucker was having like, all sorts of other fuckin' things he was having to be takin' care of. Woulda pestered your ass on it, but... ain't been all up to feelin' like my most meddlesome motherfuckin' self as of fuckin' late. Got to thinkin' all like maybe my frond be better left out of your fucking business or somethin' like that, maybe.

[Well, he was getting off-track now. Focus, Makara.]

Uhhhh, I mean, uh. The fuck was I all on about, again?

Oh, hahaha, yeah, uh, like. You ain't gotta be needing to all get yourself changed for me, bro. 'Cause like, I be liking you just for all what's you're to up and be being like right the fuck now, y'know? Changin' is all being sometimes a good fuckin' thing, if it's all makin' you feel like you be fillin' your bright fuckin' eyes all up with some miraculous confidence on it. If you went and were all to be being a different motherfucker, though, then you wouldn't be the same motherfucker, and stuff.

[Well, he managed to go and confuse himself. Give him a minute to cross his eyes, make an unsightly face, and try to re-orient himself.]

Uhhh...

[It didn't help that Tavros was shifting them around, now clinging to Gamzee's side like the most... adorable... thing... ever...]

[Gamzee reveled in their closeness, pressing shoulders and sides together, arms looped. In his new position, his hands fiddled together in his lap nervously. He really, really was not prepared to go into all of this right now. He hadn't even talked to Karkat about it very extensively. Tavros was his best bro - the one he could relate to the most at times, the one he could be stupid with and not feel like what he did was stupid or wrong or unimportant, and also maybe the kid he'd been flushed for for pretty much since he started to figure out what that even meant. He took a breath.]

I, er...

[It was hard to get his thoughts in order when Tavros' skin was so warm against his, how every point of contact their bodies made made him want to wrap himself up in him like a fucking blanket. The warmth of his boys was probably the last miracle left in this God-forsaken Tower. Er, his... boy. And Tavros. Yes. That.]

It just... I know you all been preaching this shit over and over a motherfuckin' gain, but-- But, just like I ain't wanting you to be changing into nothin' other than what your sweet fuckin' self is, I ain't wanting to be like... bein' somethin' different to you than what's the happy bro I all was used to be being to you.

[He let a pent-up breath pass through his nose, staring down at his wringing hands.]

But that ain't somethin' a good fuckin' friend would motherfucking be wishing. Shouldn't be wanting to be fakey fake at you or nothin'.

Just...

[His stomach flopped, churned uncomfortably. He wrung his hands tighter. He was definitely not ready to shatter the stupid, perpetually-happy image of himself that was once so easy to etch into Tavros' mind, but he couldn't be truthful to his brother without dropping a little bit of his newfound self-deprecation.]

Sometimes be wishin' I wasn't all having to be me, mostly.