Archive of Our Own

“Powers are a gift granted by the Gods, they are given to individuals who exceed the normality of mortal life. These people are spectacular and they are beautiful. It grants the person the ability to lift cars and run faster than sound. Everyone granted these powers are special and amazing. Blessed with abilities beyond our imagination” 

Corpse remembered reading that as a child, it seemed to haunt his very being. In his dreams, in his nightmares, in every waking moment, it haunted him. He wasn’t spectacular, or beautiful. He couldn’t lift cars or run fast. He isn’t special or amazing. He almost certainly isn’t blessed.

He wasn’t given a “gift”, no he was cursed. He was touched by the gods and they cursed him. Every moment of his life was spent knowing that he wasn’t blessed with these powers. Now while a few assume that, without knowing his power, he is being rather dramatic. However, once they learn…

Everything he has touched since he was a baby, died. Everything he has walked on died. If people were too close to him on a bad day, they died. He couldn’t feel the embrace of human affection, as the first time he had ever been hugged was his first murder. He couldn’t enjoy laying on the grass on a sunny day, as the grass would die around him, and if he lay there long enough it would kill the flowers and rot the trees. He couldn’t have friends because he would kill them if they stayed too close. 

There were a few exceptions to his curse, things that were already dead or not living didn’t seem to decay immediately. So, he could wear clothes and live in a home. But, things did seem to decay eventually so he should overhaul his closet at least once a month, but he doesn't. Doesn't have the money, or the chance. He usually moves every 8 to 10 months depending on how fast the "house" rots. He didn't stay in one place too long. He found certain materials lasted longer than others, for some reason leather was one of them. 

He had not received a full education, and certainly, he had no friends. Every day he wished his stupid fucking “blessing” would just kill him too. He is a murderer and he can’t do anything about it. But just as the 17-year-old had given up, they found him.

It had been like every other miserable day, he was sitting alone in the corner of his “house”. Possibly the most decayed part of his "house", which was made from pieces of plywood and trash. He wasn’t sure what he should be thinking, other than how he wished he could die right there. It was a particularly cold day, he stopped feeling his fingers and toes hours ago. The possibility of hypothermia crossed his mind, and he thought it would be an okay way to die. As long as he was dead. 

He was alerted by boots crunching the snow, about three pairs based on what he could hear. In his small home, he curled up and hoped they would just walk by and ignore the small unlivable thing that he called home. It looked like a random pile of trash to anyone but himself. Two pairs pass, but the third pause just next to his box. He stops breathing in the hope they won't notice him, willing his heart to stop beating so loudly.

"Toast?" A voice asks, it was more feminine. The rest of the boots stopped just a couple of feet from his hiding place. "What's going on?"

"I don't know...Thought I heard something.." A masculine voice sounded not too far from him.

"Like what Toast?" It was a softer, sweet voice with a masculine edge. 

"... It sounded like breathing…" The one guy, Toast, said.

"Like a small animal under the snow or something?" The softer male asked, curiosity tinting his tone. 

"It was much too loud to be under the snow. I think I hear a heartbeat. It's slowing down pretty bad." 

Corpse couldn't hold it anymore and took another gulp of air. That's when the boots next to him shifted suddenly and he froze completely. The edges of the box seemed to rapidly decay and he realized he was getting scared. As a result his power was acting up.

"Toast?" It was the girl again. 

"I think there's some sort of abandoned pet under this box." Corpse couldn't; wouldn't breathe. 

"Aww...poor thing." The softer male says, and the rest of the boots surround his small home.

"Now, I'm gonna slowly lift it. We're gonna try not to scare off the poor thing." Toast said, bad start seeing as Corpse was terrified. The box starts to lift, and an unrecognizable feeling fills him before the adrenaline kicks in, and as soon as there is an opening he darts out. He can't feel his feet, but they carry him as he runs. 

"Wait!" The girl shouts after him, but he doesn't listen; he keeps running. Boots come thundering after him.

"Why is there a child out here in this weather?" The sweet one seemed to ask

"I don't know, but we have to catch him." Toast says 

Corpse ran as quickly as his numb feet could carry him across the snow. He wasn’t one hundred percent sure how near or far they were exactly but he could tell they aren’t far behind and that pushed him to go way past his limits. 

"I have an idea." The sweet one says, and there was a moment's pause where he stopped running. 

Corpse was suddenly grabbed at by vines that broke their way out of the snow with great effort. His emotions were running so high that the vines immediately withered away before they even touched him. Crumbling back down to their roots. 

"That's new…" The sweet one says

"I'll try something." Said the girl, and suddenly her feet lifted off the ground. Corpse saw her shadow as she flew over him and landed in front of him. Tucking her pink wings behind her. 

"Hey, wait. We aren't gonna hurt you." She said cautiously. He ran right at her before veering a hard left and running down the hill. He tripped and fell into an uneven roll, scraping his skin on the occasional rock. He didn't feel anything as he stood and ran, the snow around him red with blood. 

He saw the buildings of a large shopping center and he had a split second to decide before sprinting right, down an alleyway. He got lost in the seeming twists and turns, maybe that was his brain finally shutting off as he lost his spatial ability. Corpse was so tired, the adrenaline that had kept him going was running out quickly. He'd been running all his life, and he was tired. He needed to rest. He was slowing, that much he could tell. But everything else didn’t make sense anymore, was he even being chased? His legs were the first to go, and he fell barely landing on his hands. His vision began to swim and he lay on his back looking at the sky that seemed to mock him for existing. He almost smiled when he realized this was it, this is how he dies. Finally, he was going to die. He felt this sense of happiness that was vastly overshadowed by the dark rot around his heart. He closed his eyes and let death take him, begging to finally be done with this world. 

He opened his eyes and all that he saw was white, which didn’t make sense. He’s killed so much, he doesn’t deserve to be in the light. Maybe limbo, or hell. Anything but where the good people lay. The light switches off a moment later and he blinks a few times to see a calm lady holding a flashlight. She had glasses on her nose, and she pushed them up before looking down to see he was now awake. She jumped lightly, and Corpse immediately pushed himself against the wall not caring if it hurt. Sound hits him like a wave, and he hears everything. The loud beeping, the way the snow lands on the window. His labored breathing, and the other’s calm breathing. His heart was heard throughout his body and he felt as if he couldn't breathe. Where was he? Who was she? She shouldn’t have gotten close, he could’ve killed her.

“Hey, it’s okay,” She says softly, and Corpse tries to back up further hissing as his muscles clench uncomfortably. “I’m not gonna hurt you, I promise.” 

He wanted to say “I can’t promise I won’t hurt you.” But he wasn’t sure he even had a voice anymore. He hasn’t used it in years and his powers sometimes have bad side effects on himself. He remembered having a terrible sore throat for a whole year and he never spoke again in case it came back to haunt him. She looked over for a minute before continuing.

“The three that brought you in here said you were out in the snow alone for a long time, you had severe hypothermia when they found you. I also found internal bleeding and strangely enough mold on your heart and lungs.” She said softly and Corpse’s eyes were elsewhere looking for an escape. She continued “Though I took care of you, your body seemed to try and decay around you but we were able to reverse the process. It will still hurt for a while. Now that you are awake you may heal faster.”

Maybe if he jumped out the window he could stick a safe landing in the snow, but he didn’t know how high up they were or if there would be enough snow to catch him. His eyes jumped to the door, it was made of wood. If it was locked he could try and get it to decay and run out that way but who knows how many people are out there and what they could do to him. Or what he could do to them. With all of his pain, he might not even make it 5 feet from where he is now, and then he would be fucked. 

As if reading his mind, she said kindly “We are about 5 stories up, and there is only a half inch of snow. In your condition, you would die. Two people are waiting outside the room, not to mention a hundred others on the lower floors, more than enough to catch a kid like you.” She stopped and Corpse wanted to argue that he wasn’t a kid. “Fine, a frail malnourished human like you.” Corpse felt dumb, of course she was an actual mind reader. She giggled before continuing “You’re right though, you probably won’t make it 5 feet in your condition.”

Corpse ignored her, looking out the window and easily clearing his thoughts. They just melted away,almost like grass under his feet. He continued to stare, reserving no thought. It might’ve been too easy but it was easier to stop thinking than to try and live in his typical homes with any decorum. 

“You’re good, not many can clear the mind so well.” She expressed and he huffed lightly. “Anyway, my name is Lily. I run a school for people with powers, to hone them and gain control of them. People like yourself.” Corpse huffed again, levying the mind-reader a snarky look. They may have powers but they were nothing like him.

“Sykkuno said that he tried to restrain you with his vines and they decayed when they got close to you. Not to mention, your body certainly isn’t built like most humans.” She said and Corpse looked away “Plus since you’ve been awake, the plants and flowers in the room died.” She gestures to the bedside where a lot of now-dead flowers sit. Corpse looked down, feeling immensely guilty. He remembered why he needed to get away, his curse. 

“I don’t think it’s a curse.” She said softly, “Rather, it just needs to be shaped.” Corpse was confused. “Stay at my school for a while, learn to control your powers. Everyone with powers is blessed, not cursed.”

Corpse rolled his eyes and buried his face in his knees lightly. He’s been alone for 13 years, there was a reason. He couldn’t go to some school with other people, other people he could kill. He can’t risk another murder, an innocent’s death.

“Hey, we get people who come here with powers similar in nature to yours and they learned to control them. They are happy and healthy now, with friends and sometimes even more.” She reasoned “I promise, you don't have to be alone anymore. Trust me.” Corpse looked at her, reserving his thoughts as he looked her up and down.

“What do you say…Corpse?” She says softly, having to take a moment to gather his name. Corpse sighs to himself and picks at his fingernails before shyly nodding his agreement, not wanting to articulate his shame in thoughts.

“Wonderful! I believe you’ll be rooming with the three that found you seeing as they don’t have a fourth roommate. Their names are Rae, she is a tough girl with the power to fly using the wings on her back, part of her ability to conjure objects. Toast, he is extremely smart and his natural 5 senses are heightened. He can hear a baby bird flying for the first time 5 miles away. Finally, Sykkuno, possibly the most popular guy on campus. He has a sway over plants; he can convince them to work with him.” Lily explains “Your room has already been set-up.” 

Corpse looked away sadly, wondering how long it would be before he would be kicked out. He notes that Lily decides not to comment on that as she walks to the door. Probably for the best. “I’m going to inform them to get ready for a new roommate.” She says, “Don’t try anything, or Micheal will be on you in a second.” 

She leaves and Corpse curls into his comforting ball, he starts to cry. He wishes he died, it would be so much easier. So much better for the health of the world, he looked over at the dead get well soon flowers and he began to sob. Why was he so broken?

Lily stepped out of the room, and met the eager eyes of Rae and Sykkuno who refused to go to class in worry of about their new friend. They thought he was gonna die when they brought him in. They were a bit better when they were told Corpse was stable and would be okay. Lily brought up the idea of inviting him to stay and they agreed instantly. Offering their room since their last roommate moved out a month ago. 

“What did he say?” Sykkuno said excitedly, and Lily could tell why everyone on campus loved him. You would’ve thought his power was compelling people not plants. 

“Please say he said yes!” Rae chirped, acting like a bird more than a person as she bounced excitedly.

“I spoke with Corpse, well he can’t speak, but we had a conversation and we came to the agreement he should stay here for a little bit to hone his powers and make friends with people like him.” 

“Soooo?” Rae asks while Sykkuno takes note of the name Lily used.

“Yes, he’s staying,” Lily says affectionately

“YAY!” Rae bounces so high she actually takes flight, Sykkuno smiles happily.

“Be easy on him, he’s very scared. He’s been alone for 13 years, so he isn’t used to human interaction. Not to mention he is terrified of his own powers, he calls them a curse.”

“That’s terrible, no power is a curse,” Sykkuno says softly, which is ironic coming from him. 

“He doesn’t believe that to be true” Lily explained “He’ll be okay. Just, be soft with your approach until he’s comfortable with you.” The two nodded

“Can we see him?” Rae asks and Lily thinks about it

“If you promise to go to your regular classes tomorrow, and help him settle in without making him uncomfortable,” Lily says

“I promise!” Rae says proudly, followed closely by a softer “I promise.”

“Okay, remember to be soft and don't crowd him. Give him space.”  Lily reminds

The two enter the room, and find Corpse still in his ball. Rae rests against the wall, and Sykkuno sits in the nearby chair looking at the flowers for a moment before looking at the sad human on the bed. 

“Hey,” Sykkuno said softly, and a head of curly black hair came from the ball of limbs and soft brown eyes met his. They looked so sad, and Sykkuno was almost sad because of it. Corpse then returns to his ball position and Sykkuno frowns lightly but isn’t discouraged.

"I'm Sykkuno, that's Rae. We're gonna be your roommates." Sykkuno explained softly, knowing Rae was staying quiet for Corpse's sake. "It's nice to meet you." 

Corpse lets out a short huff before rolling over and scanning both of them, his eyes lingering on Sykkuno for a bit longer than Rae before he looks at the ground and starts picking at his nails. Sykkuno frowns as that's a pretty bad habit to have, but he elects not to bring it up. 

"We gave you the second room on the left, it's newly furnished and everything," Sykkuno explains as if Corpse would understand what he meant. "Uh...We're excited to be your friend." 

Corpse didn't say anything, or react really. Sykkuno remembered that Lily said he couldn't speak. Corpse was looking at him carefully, before his eyes turned to the flowers remorseful. Sykkuno seemed to...understand.

"Living and dying is a part of every plant's life, and once they get cut from the roots, it's only a matter of time before they wither away. You didn't do anything wrong." Sykkuno said and Corpse looked at him with an unreadable expression. A moment of silence passes as Corpse just stares at him, and Rae just kind of looks between the two of them. 

"Just, get better soon. We're so excited to be your roommate!" Sykkuno said happily and Corpse was still watching his every move. Sykkuno stands and gently pulls Rae out of the room with him. Corpse's gaze turns curious when they aren't looking at him.  The two step outside and Rae frowns lightly.

"Why did we just leave? Shouldn't we have had a conversation with him?" Rae asks.

"I didn't want to overwhelm him, he hasn't had an interaction with another human for 13 years Rae. Too much at once will totally melt his social battery." Sykkuno reasoned and Rae sighed because he was right. 

"I think Toast rubs off on you," Rae said.

"How can you be sure I didn't rub off on Toast?" Sykkuno said cheekily before walking down the hall leaving a stunned Rae behind.

"KKUNO YOU CAN'T JUST SAY THAT AND LEAVE!!" She yells after him and Sykkuno giggles lightly before listening as whispers come from a nearby plant. He releases the gates and turns to the cactus. 

"Hello little cactus, what's up." He says to the small baby cactus barely peeking out of its pot. 

"Hello! I've never spoken to a human before !"

"Ah yes, well I'm happy to make your acquaintance. " Sykkuno said.

"There is a strange presence here, I can't tell what but it's scary but welcoming… "

"Could you explain that more?" Sykkuno asks curiously.

"A few days ago I noticed a strange feeling, later realizing it was a presence. It's like it wants to drown me and tear out my roots, but it also wants to comfort me and patch up my wounds. I wanted to go to it, but a sick sense filled me and I couldn't move towards it."

"That is strange…" Sykkuno said, wondering what was going on. Maybe it had something to do with Corpse, maybe his powers had an effect that draws in creatures and plants. They only know so much about his power works, so it was a learning process for everyone. 

"I'm scared mister…"

"You're gonna be okay, just keep growing the way you are and you'll be a lovely cactus one day." Sykkuno said happily "I've got to go now, take care." 

"Bye mister!"

Sykkuno stands and sees Rae watching him.

"Your powers are weird," Rae announces

"And you can conjure things and fly, we're all quirky," Sykkuno mentioned before confidently walking down the hall.

"Where are we even going?" Rae asks

"Have you just been following me blindly? I could've led you off a cliff Rae!" Sykkuno admonishes. 

"Just tell me!" Rae complains.

"Toast thought we should meet over dinner to talk about our new roommate before cleaning up a bit and making sure he has an amazing room," Sykkuno said.

"Ooo, where are we eating?"  Rae asks.

"Your favorite." 

"Omg yesss!" 

"FISH STICKS!?! I hate fishsticks." Rae complains.

"What did you think we were getting?" Toast asks.

"Idk, Sushi, Steak, anything but this," Rae complains.

"Come on, you love it, Rae," Sykkuno says happily.

"Sykkuno you devil! You know I hate fish sticks." She accuses.

"I don't know what you mean Rae, I didn't know you hated them." Sykkuno said, pulling his ‘simp for me I'm innocent’ card. Which, unfortunately for Rae, was very effective on Toast.

"Come on Rae, cut him some slack. He didn't know." Toast says.

"I hate both of you," Rae grumbles.

"Hate is a strong word." Sykkuno notes.

"Fine, I despise both of you.", Rae says dryly

"You're so mean, Rae," Sykkuno complains.

"Who's paying for dinner?" Toast asks.

"Nose coz!" Rae shouts and unfortunately Sykkuno is last to touch his nose. "Ha!"

"Ah, you know I don't have much with the water bill," Sykkuno said.

"Don't worry. I'll pay for it." Toast said, as Rae grumbled:

"We don't even have a water bill."

"Really Toast?! Thanks!" Sykkuno said excitedly 

"Of course." Toast reasons.

"Simp," Rae mutters bitterly. 

Rae found the only not fish stick thing on the menu, and bought that. The others went for your classic fish and chips. In the end, they sat down at the nearby park for dinner. It was a long bench and they all seemed to relax in their own way. Sykkuno sitting on the far end with Toast is the middle.

"So, is our new roommate doing okay?" Toast asks.

"His name is Corpse, and he's doing as okay as he can be," Sykkuno explains.

"Yeah...He's been alone for 13 years Toast, he's scared of himself and he thinks his powers are a curse…" Rae said softly.

"I've never heard of someone thinking that, well not in those words" Toast mentioned, glancing at Sykkuno. 

"Corpse's powers are different, I can't tell exactly how but the plants mention he is different than anything they've felt," Sykkuno said, before sipping his drink. 

"I've never met someone whose power is to decay things, including their own body. Didn't Corpse’s body try to kill him?" Toast asks.

"Yeah, it was terrifying because many of us didn't think Corpse had enough will to make it through. Lily believed in him though." Sykkuno said softly.

"He's gonna be okay, and he's gonna learn to control his powers. I remember when you first came to the school Sykkuno, you couldn't stop the constant talking and after a couple months you learned to focus on one or two plants at a time." Toast said.

"Yeah," Sykkuno said softly.

"After dinner, I thought we should go shopping to try and buy things for Corpse." Toast then adds.

"Ooooh, I love shopping," Rae says pleased.

"That sounds great Toast!" Sykkuno says excitedly.

"What do you think he likes?" Toast asks.

"Not plants," Rae said and Sykkuno shakes his head.

"I think he likes black. And like, chains." Sykkuno said.

"Hmm...why do you say that?" Toast asks.

"Dunno has a black and likes chains vibe," Sykkuno said honestly.

"We'll wait on the chains, but black is a good start." Toast said.

"Ooh, we should buy him a set of rings." Rae decides.

"We don't know what he likes, we barely know the guy." Toast reasons.

"Fine, for his birthday then," Rae claims.

"You don't know when that is." Toast deadpans.

"I'll figure it out then!" Rae argues.

"Calm down guys, let's do as Toast says. Start simple, we don't want to overwhelm him. It would only make things worse." Sykkuno tries to mediate "After he gets to know us, we can spoil him."

"But I want to spoil him like his crazy aunt," Rae complains.

"He's not much younger than us Rae, he looks younger due to his small frame. He hasn't eaten properly in a while, and it shows. Lily mentioned something about an eating plan to help him grow some much-needed muscle and body fat." Sykkuno said.

"You know a lot," Toast said impressed.

"The plants love to tell me about it, they are always listening," Sykkuno said with a shrug.

"I still want to spoil him, he deserves so much after...all that he's been through," Rae said.

"I encourage that Rae, but only once he's comfortable," Sykkuno said.

"When did you become an expert on mental health and boundaries?" Toast asks amused.

"Hmmm wouldn't you like to know?" Sykkuno said with a small smirk. 

"Okay!" Rae announces before Toast can turn into a shrimp, "Shopping time!" She then drags her boys to the nearest mall.

He was cold, that much Corpse could process. He can't remember the last time he had felt cold. So used to laying in the snow and surviving freezing temperatures. But the building was warm for the most part. Maybe he killed the heater by accident, he was sure if it was close to breaking then he could've shut it down. Corpse looked at the window, he has never had a window before. He stood carefully, gently walking over to the window with weak legs. He almost falls and he grabs onto the edge of the window before looking out. They were surrounded by forest and that made Corpse’s heart freeze. He could be the virus that ends this forest's existence. He shivers, and looks at his small frame. He was only wearing a cutesy hospital gown that made him sick. The bright colors were too bright for him. It would explain why he was so cold. He would have to find proper clothes later.  Corpse looks at the dead flowers, and is reminded of what that one guy said earlier. Who was he again? Sykkuno, right? They were gonna be roommates…

Corpse shivered and walked back to the bed shakily before rolling up into a small burrito. The blanket was soft and he took a moment to appreciate that. He had a moment of tranquility, all to himself in this strange world. This isn't going to end well for him. Or the person he inevitably murders due to his powers. But, there was a small shard of hope and he found himself grasping onto that. He didn't have anything else after all. He took a deep breath, closed his eyes, and listened to the sounds of the heater running. Maybe he hadn't broken it, that was good for the school. But, he wasn't sure how long the school would last with him as a resident. For the first time, possibly in his life, he let himself relax and fall asleep. He was just so tired, human interaction is exhausting.

The day came when Corpse was cleared to leave the room and go to his new home with the others. He, to say the least, was completely fucking terrified. Not because of the people, well not because of those he's moving in with, but because of the substantial threat he offers on their lives.  But, they were so excited for him to move in. Quizzing him on his likes and dislikes in small doses until he got a bit more comfortable with long conversations. He particularly liked Sykkuno more than the others, he was gentle and his words from their first meeting stuck with him. Rae was a lot, and that wasn't a bad thing. But, he wasn't used to someone as lively as Rae. She was growing on him though. Toast had this vibe that Corpse could never really resonate with for a while. He learned a fair bit about the others. Seeing as he didn't have a voice they decided to talk about themselves. And he would nod in agreement or disagreement, although the last one was hesitant. Corpse always insisted they stay as far away from him as possible, he didn't want to risk anything. But now he would be living with them. He was so scared, not only of their rejection but of what he could do to them.  The door opened, and an excited Rae and Sykkuno greeted him. 

"Are you ready to go Corpse?" Sykkuno asks softly.

Corpse finds himself nodding, even if his entire body was shaking. Corpse softly stands and looks around the room one more time before looking at Sykkuno's gentle smile, sparing a glance at Rae's excited grin. Sykkuno and Rae step out, holding the door open for him. He stared at it for a moment, knowing that once he passed that threshold he could never go back. Sure, he could come to this room, but it would never be the same.

He took a shaky breath, life is gonna change. And he doesn't know how. Be it good or bad. He just needs to step through that door. He closes his eyes for a moment and releases his reluctance. He then walks towards the door, only 5 steps.

4.

3.

2.

1.

He paused, looking at his new roommates who were smiling encouragingly. He took that last step and took a small breath. Gulping lightly as the last threads of terror faded. It was gonna be okay. He knew then that it would be okay.

Corpse had been living at the school for a whole month now, and the classes actually helped him get a handle on his powers. But he still didn't trust himself. Physical touch was a big no. He still got serious anxiety whenever someone got close, other than his roommates for some reason. Sykkuno was so sweet to him, the problem is Corpse was deathly afraid to enter the other’s room. From wall to wall, it was covered with plants. In every free space, a plant. On the ceiling were hanging plants. Sykkuno spent an hour each day tending to these plants and they meant a lot to him. Corpse could be in that room for 2 minutes and kill every single one of them. Corpse would try to be as far away from that room as possible. Rae's room, as he found it, was covered with schematics. He suspected it was because if she knew how they were made then she could conjure whatever she wanted. Toast's room was simpler, with books and at least 10 noise-canceling headphones thrown about. They usually do their work and studying in Toast's room, which gives Corpse anxiety because it's next to Sykkuno's room. But, he feels a bit better if he sits on the wall opposite the one that separates the rooms. Corpse's room has changed in the month he's lived there. It was just black sheets before, but now basically everything is black. He had blackout curtains and he had decorated with the occasional gifts he was given. His favorite was a pressed flower that Sykkuno gifted him. It was in a frame and with the loose control of his power he didn't just disintegrate the thing. 

At the moment, Corpse was reflecting on his life choices while laying on his bed. As he does every Saturday just before noon. He wasn't so much regretting them, as he was relaying them to himself once again. A knock came at his door and he realized he would probably have to get out of bed at some point. That was quite undesirable. 

"You better not be moping in there!" It was Rae

He turned over in his bed and glared at the door like it would frighten and open without him getting up. Unfortunately, he didn't have that power and had to force himself out of bed. His limbs felt heavy but he forced himself to walk over and unlock the door before pulling it open and squinting at the bright light. He hadn't realized how dark his room was until he exited said safe place. His eyes went to the brightest thing, which happened to be Sykkuno's smile. He didn't show it often. But he smiled a lot around Corpse to try and make the man comfortable. Corpse had no qualms bragging to Rae and Toast about it. Not to mention that it had its intended effect. 

"You skipped breakfast, you know you have to eat three times a day Corpse." Sykkuno lectured, and if there was a set way to make a man feel guilty, it was getting lectured by Sykkuno. Corpse scratches his neck guiltily.

"We have brunch set out on the table, you better eat it or Sykkuno will cry," Rae said.

"I...what?" Sykkuno asks confused.

"Shush." Rae says, slapping a hand over his mouth before pulling it away "WHAT THE FUCK YOU JUST LICKED ME!"

"You're lucky I didn't bite." Sykkuno snarks.

Corpse had one of those thoughts, those embarrassing ones he gets all the time when Sykkuno does anything. This one was 'I wish Sy would bite me .’ Like what is wrong with him?! He shook it off and looked at Rae and Sykkuno. Corpse let out a small smile at the two bickerings and they both froze looking at him. He raised an eyebrow at them. 

"You smiled." Sykkuno breathed and Corpse froze before covering his face in embarrassment. "Your smile is really beautiful Corpse." Corpse's heart skipped a beat, he wasn't sure if that was his heart finally giving out or if he was happy. This always happened when Sykkuno complimented him. 

"You should smile more," Rae said and Corpse looked at her for a moment before looking back at the more important thing. That is of course Sykkuno. He wasn't sure why he favored Sykkuno, only that he did. 

Corpse shakes his head, and waits for them to break apart before sneaking through to go eat his brunch. He's been on the eating schedule for one month, and there was already an improvement. Like, he didn't look as much like a twelve-year-old. And you couldn't count his ribs as easily anymore. Honestly, he wouldn't have cared if he starved to death, but Sykkuno and Rae were like the parents he never had when it came to the eating schedule. He likes to please Sykkuno because he smiles so widely when Corpse takes care of himself. Like he...like he cares. 

Corpse finds his food, the more nutritional kind made for him exclusively, and sits down. He noticed the others had already finished their standard microwave breakfast. He wondered how they weren't overweight when they relied on the microwave like it was a god. What did he know anyway? He didn't even know you ate three times a day until a month ago. To be fair, he ate maybe three times a month. Even those were optimistic numbers. Sykkuno and Rae came down the hall, continuing their bickering. They do this almost every morning, but they get shut down by Toast. 

"Will you two shut the hell up? I have a major fucking headache." Toast complains, he was wearing his noise-canceling headphones and looking quite miserable. The two stop bickering out of respect for Toast. "Hey Corpse." He mutters to the much quieter man. Corpse waves lightly before continuing to eat. Corpse let out a big yawn and stretched lightly before squinting down at his now-empty plate. Can he go back to his regularly scheduled reflecting time now?

"I say, we go out on our day off!" Rae proclaims and Toast winces while Corpse cringes. He hated going out. 

"Fuck that." Toast says bitterly before leaving to go hide in his room, possibly try and sleep off his headache. 

"Corpse?" Rae asked hopefully. Corpse shakes his head quickly, gesturing that there was no way in hell he would be going out. 

"Please, you never come out," Sykkuno asked, and fuck Corpse couldn't say no to that. God dammit, he needs to stop doing things simply because Sykkuno asked. Corpse lets out a silent sigh before nodding his head. 

"You're gonna go out!?" Rae asks and reluctantly Corpse nods. "I don't know what you did Sykkuno but damn you're good." 

"I have no idea what you're talking about Rae," Sykkuno says innocently.

"Anyway, let's go!" Rae said.

'Wait, where are we going?' Corpse signed out in broken ASL. Luckily, Sykkuno understood as they were learning together. It was easier than having to scribble on paper or play a constant game of charades.

"Where are we going Rae?" Sykkuno asks.

"I was thinking we could go hiking for a little bit and get dinner in town," Rae mentioned and Corpse’s heart caught in his throat. Hiking, in nature. There were a lot of plants, and animals he could slaughter with one touch. 

"Come on, it's gonna be fun!" Rae cheered, and Corpse regretted everything. 

Corpse doesn't know how he got here, but he does know he was following Sykkuno blindly. He was trying to keep his emotions neutral, as they learned it was connected to his powers. When he was sad or angry, his powers were most active. So if he was neutral then he wouldn't use his powers as much. 

"Look Corpse, it's so beautiful!" Sykkuno cheered and Corpse looked at Sykkuno. He is beautiful. Oh, he meant the view. Corpse looked out and saw the entire town and a forest of lush trees. Of course, Sykkuno was right. Corpse glances at Sykkuno's smile and finds himself smiling a bit too. It was odd on his face, but he could get used to it. Maybe, only for Sykkuno. 

"Wrap it up love birds." Rae demeans and they both flush looking away from each other.

"We're not love birds Rae." Sykkuno insists and Corpse nods his agreement.

"Suuuure." Rae says sarcastically "What do you two want for dinner?" 

"Uh...I don't know Rae." Sykkuno said and Corpse shook his head.

"How about we get sushi? There is a new place we can go to, I've heard good things." Rae said and Corpse quirked an eyebrow. Spelling out sushi using ASL since he wasn't certain how to sign the word.

"Oh right, you've never had sushi, have you Corpse?" Sykkuno said and Corpse shook his head.

"Gasp! We are getting sushi right now!!" Rae proclaimed loudly. 

"Did you just say gasp?" Sykkuno asked.

"Shut up Sykkuno and bring your boyfriend," Rae said before running.

"He's not my boyfriend!" Sykkuno ran after her. Corpse decided to softly jog behind them, he didn't feel like sprinting. Not like they were. As long as they were in view he could catch up. He followed them as they sprinted down the trail until the trees cleared to human civilization. Which was somehow worse than the forest. The other two finally stopped and took a couple breaths. Looking utterly exhausted. Corpse jogged to their spot and stopped, feeling oddly refreshed from his jog. 

"God, I'm never doing that again." Rae huffed out.

"That's a lie." Sykkuno adds.

Corpse tries to let out a small giggle, but due to the condition of his throat, nothing comes out. Corpse frowned for a moment before tentatively spelling out the word sushi in ASL before tilting his head to show his question.

"Oh right! I've been hearing some good things about this sushi shop, run by a lady named Leslie I think." Rae said, herding her gays...guys towards the sushi shop. It was a nicely decorated place with a modern design, at the counter was a sweet-looking girl in orange. She smiled when they entered.

"Welcome to Leslie's Sushi Shop!" She said proudly and Rae smiled.

"Hi! I'd like a platter of your California Rolls, oh, and the ones with salmon on top." Rae says.

"Alright, and for you two?" Leslie looks at them.

"Uh...I'll have the variety platter?" Sykkuno said.

"Mmkay, one variety platter. And for you?" She looked at Corpse. Corpse scratches his neck softly looking at Sykkuno for help. 

"Uh, do you have any vegan options or just healthier softer ones?" Sykkuno asks.

"Ah, well on this menu we have our vegan, lactose-free, gluten-free, and vegetarian options. Though most of our sushi is many of those, it makes people feel better to know for sure when ordering." Leslie explains, pointing to a list. 

"Can we get the uh, veg variety platter?" Sykkuno says, looking at Corpse who nods. 

"Okay, one platter of California rolls and Nigiri, one regular variety platter, and the veg variety platter. Is that all? We also have cakes, cookies, and drinks!" Leslie beams at them.

"That's all, thank you, though three water glasses would be nice," Rae said.

"Of course!" Leslie grabs three water cups "Is this for here or to go?" 

"Here," Rae said.

"Okay, that'll be $35.20," Leslie said.

"Oh God, you guys are bleeding me dry."

"You're the one that wanted sushi." Sykkuno deadpanned. "You make more than me too!" 

"Sykkuno, people throw money at your feet so you look at them and thank them." Rae refutes.

"That's not even true," Sykkuno states.

"I feel like you numerous simps would if they had the money!"  Corpse nods his head lightly at Rae's comment. 

"Uh, take this and put it on the table. We'll bring your food to you." Leslie said, holding a plastic number 1. Corpse gulps, realizing the others would be bickering and he didn't have the power to separate them like Toast. Mostly because he doesn't have a voice and definitely can't touch them. 

Corpse takes a deep breath, it is plastic, and it decays in 2 to 3 weeks even with his power at full blast. Plus, he survived the forest. He shakily grabs it and Leslie smiles at him gently. Corpse then takes the liberty to go ahead and pick a table, he chose one in the corner. It was a four-seater but he thought it was appropriate. The others noticed he had disappeared, and finally sat down for a more civil conversation. "Civil." 

"I'm telling you, it wasn't me. I was talking to a rose bush on the other side of the school." Sykkuno argued.

"Who else can get a plant to steal my homework?!" Rae refutes.

"Why would I want your chicken scratch?" Sykkuno argues back.

"What! The Audacity! It is not chicken scratch." Rae complains 

"Chicken scratch~" Sykkuno teases.

"Mr. Ahgren likes my work." Rae huffed.

"Mr. Ahgren likes everyone's work," Sykkuno replies 

"That doesn't change the fact a plant stole my homework!" Rae said 

"Plants think for themselves, I do nothing to control them. Only convince them." Sykkuno said.

"I'm onto you," Rae says angrily gesturing that she was watching him. 

"Here we are! One custom platter, one variety platter, and one veg variety platter." Leslie said, setting down their food.

"Thank you." Rae and Sykkuno said shortly, Corpse just nodded awkwardly. Corpse looked at the small wooden sticks he was given and wondered what they were for. 

"Oh, those are chopsticks! You hold them like this!" Sykkuno said, taking his sticks and setting them in his hands. Corpse copies him, watching as he carefully pushes the ends together. He then watched Sykkuno pick up sushi and bring it to his mouth with the chopsticks. Corpse tries the grip a few times before shakily grabbing a piece and bringing most of it to his mouth. Flavor exploded in his mouth, and he was pleasantly surprised by the small roll.

"Or, you can be like everyone else and use a fork," Rae said, stabbing her sushi with a fork she got from seemingly nowhere. 

"Come on Rae, using chopsticks is a good skill to learn." Sykkuno insists before taking another bite of sushi. She shrugs, bringing the sushi to her mouth. Corpse decided to continue with the chopsticks as he kind of had the hang of it. Plus, Sykkuno's approving smile was all the validation he needed for the next 10 years. Maybe Sykkuno's true power was compelling people because Corpse was under his spell. To be fair, so was most of the school. It was relatively small actually, only 180 students. Once the trio finished, Sykkuno paid for some for Toast. They then disembarked on the journey home, Corpse messing with the sleeves of his hoodie. He was slowly getting more and more anxious. 

"Corpse." Corpse's head snapped up to look at Sykkuno. "Are you okay?" Corpse nodded slowly, as if not believing it himself. Which was a fair assessment considering he didn't believe it himself. Sykkuno purses his lip lightly, worrying for his mute friend.

"We'll be home in a minute Corpse, don't worry." Sykkuno smiles lightly.

This man...This man is an absolute angel. Corpse was in awe. Then again, it was Sykkuno, when was he not in awe? Corpse never thought he'd be so impressed by someone, then again he never thought he'd get to know anyone. Corpse looked down and realized the grass was yellow where he stepped. And he froze, the grass around him turning yellow. No no no no no, he needs to calm down. Everything is okay, he may be anxious but he's fine. He's with his friends. His vision tunneled as the others kept walking and he couldn't breathe. No, he couldn't lose control. Even living creatures would die, every living thing would die. He wasn't sure why his anxiety spiked, other than it was at a solid 10. 

"Breathe Corpse. In and out." A soft voice said, and he couldn't decipher who. But he trusted them, taking a deep breath in and releasing that same breath a moment later. "Good, again. In and out."  Corpse took a shaky breath in and slowly his mind began to clear. He was prompted to breathe, in and out. He listened, holding onto the voice like it was a life line. 

"There we go, in and out." It was Sykkuno, of course, it was. It couldn't be anyone else. Corpse looked up, he hadn't even realized he had sunk to the ground. A safe distance away, Sykkuno was gently kneeling. Just at the edge of a circle of dead grass. Corpse felt bad for the poor grass and all the things that lived there. Corpse lets his emotions settle and the decaying around them stops, he looks at Sykkuno the whole time. Who was relentless in his gentle smile. 

"Ready to go back now?" Sykkuno asks and Corpse nods, shakily standing and following Sykkuno away from the death he made and towards his new home. At the academy with Sykkuno, Rae, and Toast. 

Corpse had been at the academy for 3 months now. And, his feelings of friendship towards Sykkuno had shifted to something more. He couldn’t name it as he had never experienced it before. But, his heart felt like it was gonna flutter out of his chest and he always flushed when Sykkuno took the time to look at him. Thinking about Sykkuno for this long had to be a sin. Perfect Sykkuno, devine Sykkuno. Angel Sykkuno, cheeky Sykkuno. Sykkuno, every side is beautiful and perfect. And Corpse’s heart seemed to yearn for this man. He didn't understand, but somehow he knew it wasn't bad. Sykkuno just makes him so happy, and that emotion was foreign. But...good. He never thought there would be anything good in this world. But, Sykkuno was all the good in the world. And Corpse wanted more. Corpse needed more. Corpse then thought he should probably go to sleep. He had been lying in his bed thinking about Sykkuno and these feelings since 11 PM. What time was it?Oh...It's 1 AM, how did he get here? He rolls over and burrows deeper into the soft blankets. Time for bed. He closes his eyes and is slowly brought to sleep.  

Sykkuno was leading him through a field, cherry blossoms were flying around them and suddenly the trees they belonged to came into view. They weren't in a field, but in a beautiful forest of sakura trees. 

"Corpse!" Sykkuno said happily, and Corpse smiled. His throat opened and he said:

"Sy!" It slipped off his tongue effortlessly. 

"Look, isn't it beautiful?" Sykkuno did a small twirl, the cherry blossoms fluttered around him just perfectly.

"You are beautiful." Corpse breathes and Sykkuno giggles.

"Corpse! I meant the cherry blossoms!" Sykkuno says with a smile.

"Oh, yeah. Beautiful." Corpse was still looking at Sykkuno. Corpse then confidently strides over to Sykkuno, and softly dips him before leaving a small kiss on the tip of his nose. 

"I lo-"

"CORPSE WAKE UP! IT'S BREAKFAST TIME AND WE'RE GONNA BE LATE." 

Corpse burst out of bed, and from the frankly confusing dream that slipped out of his mind. He tore off the blankets and stumbled out of bed. The blankets tangled around his legs and he fell onto the floor. Barely catching himself.  He gets dressed in record time and exits his room in only 10 seconds. He finds Rae calmly doing some homework and he looks at the time, it was 5:30. They start school at 8:20. Corpse levied a glare at Rae.

"Hah, I got you good!" Rae says with a mischievous smile. Corpse was irritated, he glared at her until her homework disintegrates in her hands and turns to go back to fucking bed. 

"Wha- Corpse!" Rae shouts and Corpse shows her his middle finger as he storms back to his room. 

"Oh, good morning Corpse." Corpse smiled immediately like he wasn't irritated. He nodded softly and signed out hi to Sykkuno. "What happened?" Sykkuno asked.

'Rae decided it was a good idea to wake me up and make me think I was late.' Corpse signed angrily. 

"I'm sorry Corpse! I'm sure you can go back to sleep." Sykkuno said softly.

'What are you doing up this early?' Corpse signed and Sykkuno followed his hands.

"Oh, I was gonna start watering my plants! A fresh start to the day." Sykkuno said sweetly.

Corpse smiled lightly, he should've known. Sykkuno adores his plants, and Corpse almost wished he was a plant so Sykkuno would adore him. That was the weirdest thought he's had today, maybe he should get more sleep. "Get some sleep Corpse. I'll wake you up on time, I promise." Sykkuno said and Corpse can't say no. Corpse enters his room, and briefly waves at Toast who was walking down the hall. Toast watched him for a moment, Corpse didn't think much of it.  Corpse walks over and grabs his blankets from the floor rolling over into the bed wrapping the blanket around him. It was warm, he never wants to leave. He closes his eyes and lets himself drift to sleep. 

"Corpse!" Sykkuno's voice said softly "It's time to wake up!" Corpse's eyes open and he crawls out of his burrito to see Sykkuno standing next to his bed holding a tray. "I brought breakfast." If Corpse had a voice, he couldn't have stopped himself from saying "marry me." But, that was avoided simply because he didn't. Probably for the best. Sykkuno sets the tray down carefully and Corpse smiles as a way to thank him. Sykkuno smiles back and Corpse’s heart skips a beat. Corpse then checks the time, Sykkuno wakes him up with plenty of time to get ready. Corpse starts his breakfast, and Sykkuno awkwardly turns to leave. Corpse wants him to stay, but he can't voice it. However, a sound escaped his throat and he was stunned. He had never made a sound since he lost his voice. Sykkuno stopped, slowly turning to him.

"Corpse...was that you?" Sykkuno asked and Corpse slowly nodded. Sykkuno's smile brightened.

"Omg! That's the first time you've ever made a sound! Maybe your throat is healing?!" Sykkuno said excitedly. 

Corpse smiles, happy because Sykkuno was happy. Corpse was okay with never having a voice, but seeing Sykkuno happy because he seemed to be healing made his heart skip a couple of beats. Sykkuno was very involved with making sure he was healthy, such as carefully tracking his weight which he gained slowly at first but as he ate more he began to be a healthy weight. Even with the little bit of muscle, he had picked up. Corpse was healthier and that made Sykkuno so happy. Corpse almost felt the need to take care of himself because it made Sykkuno happy. Corpse takes a bite of his breakfast, and that's when he remembered something from his childhood before...he ran away. His mother used to read him fairytales, the prince and the princess. They got married and lived happily ever after. 

True love. True love's kiss. Love...It all made sense now. These feelings towards Sykkuno, are different from everyone else. He was...in love. He wanted to get married and live happily ever after with Sykkuno. Sykkuno is the one that he...loves. Corpse's cheeks turn the shade of pink and he looks over at Sykkuno who was rambling about something, and god he is so cute when he rambled. Corpse eats his breakfast with the refreshing sound of Sykkuno talking about a plant he met yesterday on his daily walk in nature where he worked to reinforce his control of the river that is his powers. How Sykkuno got to this topic would remain a mystery, but Corpse didn't mind. Corpse finishes his breakfast and reluctantly untangled from his blankets. He stands and Sykkuno smiles before holding open the door.  Corpse nods to thank him and they walk down the hall where Rae was frantically still trying to do homework, and Toast was sitting next to her coasting a cup of coffee as he watches her work. 

"Good morning!" Sykkuno cheered and Toast hummed lightly for the both of them seeing as Rae was busy.

"Did you hear!? Corpse made a sound." Sykkuno was so excited, and Corpse flushed red. 

"I did actually." Toast said, scanning over Corpse with an unrecognizable look. Corpse shifts lightly, nervously messing with the sleeves of his black hoodie. Yes, he went to sleep again in what he planned to wear for the day. Corpse then brings the tray to the sink and washes it, as well as the plate his breakfast was on. He noticed in the trash were the usual signs of microwave breakfast, no surprise. 

"I'm gonna fail because of you Corpse!" Rae demeaned and Corpse levied his sharpest glare. "Okay okay, I'm sorry.. Don't disintegrate my homework please." Corpse huffed and turned back to doing the dishes. Sykkuno giggled and Toast just shook his head. He adores his band of idiots, at the same time he absolutely hates them. Corpse smirked lightly, continuing the dishes. He loves them.

How they got into a massive pun competition on a Friday night is a mystery,  but some of the puns were not that punny. Rae was more classic, Toast was more creative. And apparently all Sykkuno knew were plant puns. Corpse was picked as judge which is a bad idea when he simps for one of the contestants. 

"I beg your garden?" Sykkuno said

"Sykkuno, you can't bee serious." Rae says 

"Leaf me alone." Sykkuno refutes. Corpse hums to himself lightly, still not used to being able to make sounds. Still couldn't talk yet, he's tried but with no success.

"Okay, Okay. Why did the apricot ask a prune to dinner?" 

"I don't snow." Rae answers

"Because he couldn't find a date!" Sykkuno said proudly

"That's not even that punn-" Rae was cut off by the sweetest sound of laughter and they all looked over to see Corpse smiling at the joke. He freezes when he sees they are looking at him. Sykkuno’s face shaded a light pink as he looked at Corpse, Corpse himself was embarrassed. That was a funny joke, so why did he only laugh? The others had never heard the laugh before and were mystified by it. 

"I think our judge is bi-ased." Toast emphasized bi. Rae nods and Sykkuno is still looking at Corpse.

"I just realized I need to study," Rae said suddenly, leaving.

"I have to water my books." Toast said, knowing full well that made no sense. He leaves. Corpse and Sykkuno were suddenly alone. Corpse was staring at the floor. He looks up and meets his eyes with Sykkuno, he flushes pink and looks away.

"I guess I won then?" Sykkuno said softly and Corpse shrugged lightly. 

"So uh, you need help with anything? Homework or studying? We have the same math class so if anything confuses you I know what we're learning. It's unfortunate you lost your notes for that class, you want to borrow mine for the night?" Sykkuno asked and Corpse was too busy watching his mouth move to process any of the words being said. But, after a moment it kicked in and he looked back into Sykkuno’s rather beautiful eyes. They were like, a precious gem.

'I'm fine Sy, though I did fail that math test.'Corpse signed. Sy was easier to sign than Sykkuno, that's where the nickname came from. Sykkuno didn't seem to mind it.

"I can help you study for the retake!" Sykkuno cheers, "hold on I'll get my stuff." Sykkuno runs out of the room and Corpse watches him go with a growing sense of longing. He needs to keep these feelings under wraps.

Corpse grabs his things for class and brings them out. To be clear, he failed that math test on purpose. Just to see if he could choose every wrong answer, and he did. Maybe a few correct answers to throw the teacher off his trail, but mostly he knew the answer and chose the wrong one. He also took his scratch paper to his room and disintegrated it. He did this because Sykkuno was so cute when talking about the subject, and so passionate. Corpse simply adored him. Corpse understood math. But hated the way the teacher taught it. Sykkuno taught it so well with a genuine passion. 

"I'm back!" Sykkuno said excitedly "Did you have the test?" Corpse takes out the test, which had a solid 20% on it. He hands it over to Sykkuno who looks over it with small hums every once in a while. Sykkuno tilts his head lightly. 

"Are you sure you don't understand? Some of these answers seem intentional." Sykkuno mentions looking up at him. Corpse nods lightly and explains through ASL that he didn't understand.

"Maybe I'm just imagining it then." Sykkuno mentions, "Let's start with number 1." Corpse nods, looking at number one.

"Okay, find f(g(x)) when f(x) = 3x - 2 and g(x) = 2x^2 - 3x + 7. Now, I think this seems more confusing than it actually is but in reality you just plug in numbers. You see, since we're finding f(g(x)) we just need to plug 2x^2 - 3x +7 into the 3x - 2. Giving us, 3 times 2x^2 -3x +7 - 2." Sykkuno explained and Corpse nodded along. 

"Now, try it by yourself," Sykkuno said softly and Corpse began to work. Sykkuno pointed out a few things "See! You didn't need my help!" 

'No, you explained it understandably!' Corpse signs out and Sykkuno smiles.

"Honestly, I think anyone can do math with the right teacher. The same concepts can be put differently and it'll click for someone. Put it a different way and-" Ah yes, one of his legendary rants. Corpse loved watching Sykkuno rant about something he was genuinely interested in.  

A couple of minutes later, just when Corpse was gonna melt into a simp puddle Sykkuno stops and flushes. "Sorry, I know you don't want to listen-" Corpse shook him and shook his head to show he was okay with it. Sykkuno understood.

"Um, okay. What about this graphing one?" Sykkuno points out and Corpse follows with his eyes.  They then work through the entire test, despite Corpse knowing all the answers already. He loves Sykkuno.

Class time, Rae and Toast were in the back as Lily lectured about the importance of understanding your peers. Lily taught the more humane lessons, and her "not" boyfriend teaches the stem-related classes. Some random guy, also known as Mr. Ahgren,  they picked off the street and he teaches math. English was taught by a kind old lady who made exquisite pies. Foreign languages were taught by a man who had the power to know every language in the world. They were a k-12 school, with a college option so the kids can get whatever job they want after school, growing up in an environment that is safe for them. Anyway, Lily was teaching and Rae and Toast were not paying attention. As they were going to be comparing notes. 

"Okay, so Corpse laughed at Sykkuno's lame jokes." Toast whispers.

"Dude, I watched Corpse burn his math notes so he had to share with Sykkuno," Rae said.

"Really?" Toast says looking up from his notes, and Rae nodded. Toast wrote it down. 

"I think it's important to bring up that Sykkuno was flushed very pink at Corpse's laugh." Toast said, pointing to his page. 

"A very cute laugh." Rae chimes.

"What are these for again?" Toast asked.

"Uh...reasons our roommates have the hots for each other?" Rae answered. 

"I thought everyone knew they had the hots for each other?" Toast mentioned.

"People are stupid, and simps," Rae argues. A hand went on top of their notes and they saw Lily passively looking down at them before humming. The entire class was at work time.

"Pretty good evidence, I would like to add the amount of time Sykkuno passes through Corpse's mind," Lily said darkly.

"Sorry, Lily." Rae and Toast said.

"You should be paying attention in my class." She says "but seeing as everyone is wondering what's going on here, I think everyone isn't focused."

"Sorry, We'll do this elsewhere next time," Rae said.

"I don't believe you Rachel," Lily said,

"Oh God, not the full name!" Rae cries.

"Ignore her." Toast said firmly "We'll pay better attention."

"I accept that, you too better get to work. The assignment is due at the end of class." Lily leaves and they sigh before awkwardly shuffling to grab the paper in front and getting to work. 

____________________________

Today, they were meeting with their sister school from Europe. The quartet had a mixed bag of reactions, mostly Corpse was terrified. Sykkuno was his panic blanket. Rae was confident. And Toast didn't seem to think anything of the day. They were all assigned a group to hang out with and get to know people from their sister school, and they were given the dubbed "Muffinteers". A group containing 4 members, named Dream, George, Sapnap, and BadBoyHalo. Corpse would've been holding Sykkuno's hands if not for the fear of hurting him. His hands looked soft and small enough to fit into the palm of his hand. And Corpse has thought about holding Sykkuno's hand more than he would like to mention. 

Anyway, they were meeting at Leslie's Sushi Shop. Because when deciding where to meet, Rae wanted sushi, and one of them, George or something said yes. Followed immediately by the masked guy (his boyfriend?) agreeing. Corpse would've gone wherever Sykkuno wanted. The four arrived at the sushi shop a bit early, but clearly their friends from the sister school were already there. 

"Say you love me." 

"No." 

"Geoooorggggee. You love me!" 

"No." 

"Give it up Dream." 

"Shut up, Mr. I have two boyfriends. "

"Fuck you."

"LANGUAGE!"

"You can't talk either, you have a diamond for a boyfriend!" 

Toast looks at his band of idiots, before sighing. Not more dumbasses.

"They are a lively bunch," Rae notes, smiling widely. 

"That's scary," Sykkuno said.

"You can say that again." Toast muttered.

Rae led their group through the door, Toast wondering how much headache medicine he would need today. Sykkuno was a bit excited to meet new people, and Corpse was thinking about how cute Sykkuno looked in that shirt. They quickly spotted who they were meeting, maybe because the chaotic energy was immense. There were 4 boys, one was wearing a lime green hoodie and a white mask. One was wearing a blue shirt with a little 404 on it, and white goggles. One had a white shirt with a flame on it, and he wore a white bandana. The last was wearing a black a red hoodie with round glasses. 

"Hey, you must be the Muffinteers!" Rae said happily and they all looked at them. 

"The amigops, I presume?" The green one asks.

"Yup! That's us."

The four sit down at the table across from the other four, Corpse trying to sit as close to the wall as physically possible. Sykkuno was next to him, with the other two next to him Toast on the end. Corpse was in front of the green mask guy and he was a bit unnerved by the way he was looking at all of them, also known as he looked at Sykkuno for longer than 10 seconds and that's a bit sus. 

"I'm Rae." Rae introduces.

"Toast." Toast says.

"I'm Sykkuno, and this is Corpse." Sykkuno says happily.

"Dream," said the green boy.

"George," said the blue boy with goggles.

"Sapnap," Said bandana boy.

"BadBoyHalo, you can call me Bad." Finished that last one. 

"So, I assume you have powers, like us?" Rae was carrying this entire conversation.

"Oh yeah, you see George can put people to sleep. Bad has like a demon form, and Sapnap can control fucking fire!" Dream said.

"LANGUAGE!" Bad shouts.

"Oh, and I am the best speedrunner the world has ever seen," Dream says proudly.

"He can run fast," George says blankly.

"That's so cool! I actually can conjure things and have wings!" Rae says.

"I have unnaturally heightened senses." Toast says.

"Oh uh, I talk to nature to put it simply. Corpse here uh...Decays things." Sykkuno explains, scratching his neck. Corpse's nails were dug into his own legs, but he didn't think to stop. Corpse was suddenly extremely nervous, and that was bad for the control of his powers so he was trying to calm down. Breathing deeply. Sykkuno shifted next to him and he almost jumped. 

"Hey, are you okay?" Sykkuno asked softly, and Corpse focused on him. Corpse nods slowly, and Sykkuno looks him over before looking at him with a ‘really?’ expression. Corpse nodded more decisively this time. He was calm again. It was always Sykkuno, wasn't it? 

"Hey, we now offer table service! This is our new hire, Tina!" Leslie introduced a sweet-looking girl in an orange uniform. Leslie was chill because Rae dragged the others here a lot.

"Uh, can I take your order?" Tina asks.

"I'll have California rolls!" Rae cheered.

"Uh, you want the same as usual Sy?" Toast asks.

"Yeah." 

"Okay, two orders of the variety platter for me and him," Toast says.

"The uh, Veg variety platter for Corpse!" Sykkuno said and Corpse nodded lightly.

The others ordered their food, as soon as Tina left. A conversation started and Corpse could care less what anyone was saying. He was getting nervous again, and his nails were digging into his legs enough that if he wasn't wearing jeans he would've drawn blood. Corpse stood suddenly, and didn't even make any form of communication before beelining for the door and barreling through it for a gulp of air. He stumbled to the side and sank against the wall. Trying to focus on his breathing. The door opened next to him and he just knew Sykkuno had followed him outside. He couldn't focus on that, instead, he just closed in on himself. He needs to calm down or he becomes a bomb that could go off at any second. 

"Corpse," Sykkuno said softly "It's gonna be okay. I'm here. I understand if you want to leave, we can go back to the school." Sykkuno suggests, and Corpse hangs onto every word. "I'm sure the others could get the food to go, and I'm sure this isn't the last time you will get to meet with everyone."  

Sykkuno sits down a bit away from Corpse, and Corpse peaks through a mass of his curls to see Sykkuno. Sykkuno just smiles at him gently, and Corpse finds himself calming down. Slowly, but surely. Corpse focused on Sykkuno, on Sy. He thought about Sykkuno, and his lovely smiles that no one else gets to see. The true genius that is his brain that only they get to see. The ability to control his powers, even when before he was drowning in them. Corpse was inspired by that, maybe he could control his powers too, but it's so fucking hard for him. He thought about Sykkuno trying on clothes at the store and jokingly asking what Corpse thought. Corpse was biased, you see, Sykkuno could wear anything and he would still be the most beautiful man he had ever met. He thought about all the times Sykkuno got genuinely passionate about plants or math, he always told these amazing stories of what he had heard from a plant that day. 

"S-sy." Broke from his throat, it was agonizing. The tone was dark and very deep. But also very quiet, you wouldn't have heard it if you weren't listening. But, Sykkuno was as his eyes widened and his jaw dropped. 

"C-corpse," Sykkuno answered before softly saying "I'm here." 

Corpse wasn't sure why, but at those words, he began to cry. He ducked down to hide those tears, they weren't because he was sad. Rather because he finally had someone who would be with him. Who would always be there for him, and he could care for them.  He was just so fucking happy. Corpse continued to cry, he couldn't stop it. 

"Let it out Corpse. Let it all out." Sykkuno prompted softly and Corpse listened, he always listened to Sykkuno. Sykkuno could tell him to jump off a cliff, and he would do it without hesitation. Sykkuno tells him to eat and he does just that. The door opens again, and the soft footprints tell Corpse that it's Rae. He knows what the others’ footprints sound like. Toast lets you know he's coming, Sykkuno's were soft but not in the way Rae's were. 

"Is everything okay out here?" Rae asked softly.

"Yeah, we just need a few minutes," Sykkuno asked.

"Food came out, do you want to get a box?" Rae said.

"We'll be back in a moment, don't worry about us," Sykkuno said and Rae went back in. Corpse wasn't crying anymore, but staring at Sykkuno because he is so beautiful in that shirt. God dammit. Well, he knows he's calm again because he is thinking about how cute Sykkuno looks in that goddamn shirt. Because fuck he is adorable. Corpse shakily stands, his legs suddenly having to remember how to perform such a task. Sykkuno stands too and opens the door for Corpse. Corpse smiles lightly to himself before entering the sushi place and waiting for Sykkuno to be at his side before walking back to the table. They both get out their chopsticks and begin to eat their sushi. If anyone saw the tear tracks on Corpse’s face, they didn't mention it. Corpse wanted to hold Sykkuno's hand but he quickly thought better of it.  The conversation went on and Corpse tried to tune in. 

"So, are you and Dream dating?" Rae asked.

"Pff, he wishes," George says.

"George!!!" Dream says. "Say you love me."

"That's not happening," George answered.

"I see, I guess every 4 person group has the oblivious couple?" Toast mentioned, and Sapnap nodded tiredly, they then bonded over being 3rd wheels. Constantly. 

"Our's is more wholesome," Rae mentions.

"That's not hard, considering one of ours is a Tsundere and they fight a lot," Sapnap says and the other two shrug. The couples were still there, the others just didn't care that they were. 

"We are not a couple," George says firmly.

"Come on George, you love me." Dream responds.

"No," George says.

Corpse was pink since their friends were treating him and Sykkuno like a couple. They weren't together, but his heart longed for a timeline where they were. He gently traces his nails over his jeans, bashfully looking down. After that, the 4 say goodbye to the others and head back to the school. Where they all just head to bed, or at least their room. Corpse goes to his room and peels off the layers starting with the socks and ending with his shirt. He tosses the clothes into the corner for later, he then grabs a fresh pair of boxers and his favorite towel that was just washed. He entered his bathroom, it was a small space with a toilet and shower, but it worked for him. 

Corpse gets out of the shower and catches a glance at himself in the mirror. He had a remarkable amount of muscle considering his past eating habits and his powers. Lily gives everyone check-ups and she was surprised with how he went from severely underweight to a bit muscular. But, he zoned in on his face and mentally flinched. He quickly exits the restroom and curls up on his bed where he spent many hours reliving his worst memories, and the rest dreaming about the most beautiful person in the world. He pulls the blanket over his head and buries his face into the warmth. His mind filters in with the usual Sykkuno, his smile. His voice. His hair. His laugh. The way he gets when he is focused, or talking about something he's passionate about. Corpse wished his eyes would light up like that. Every day, he prays that Sykkuno would look at him with those bright loving eyes. Corpse's hair bunches with the water, and he figures he should've dried it more. He doesn't move from his position, rather rakes his fingers over the blanket. God, he loves Sykkuno. And if Corpse wrote a book about Sykkuno, he would disintegrate it before it was ever published. He rolled over, a book… 

He could never tell Sykkuno how he feels, but he could write it somewhere and hold it close. Sykkuno would never like him, Sykkuno loves plants and Corpse decays plants. Sykkuno loves math,  Corpse doesn't love math. Sykkuno loves dogs, Corpse is a murderer. Sykkuno is an angel, he deserves to have someone who isn't broken. And in his dreams, he is free to hold Sykkuno's hand, hold him close,  kiss him, cuddle with him. But Corpse knows that isn't a reality. Sykkuno deserves someone who can give those gentle affections. And Corpse, isn't that. That's how Corpse found himself with a pencil, and a notebook he didn't use in class. He bought too many, happens all the time. He knew he had something to express, but he wasn't sure how. 

March 20th

Today, we met up with the Muffinteers. That's what they call themselves. I… got nervous.  New people scare me, I felt like I couldn't escape so I got out of there. But Sykkuno, sweet Sykkuno helped me. He always knows how to calm me down.

He has his sweet angelic voice, it always breaks through the fog. His smile always brightens the room, much less my entire day.  I get a tight feeling in my chest when someone new talks to him, or flirts with him.  Asks him out. And they have every right, it's not like Sykkuno has a boyfriend. But, this tight feeling always comes. I know some call it jealousy, but it's too intense to be that. I can't name it 

I know I love him, God I fell so fuckin hard. I hadn’t even realized I had fallen until I was on the fucking ground. But, I don't regret it. Maybe this journal will help me come to terms with my feelings...

April 1st

Today was April fools day, I don’t really get it either. First I'd heard of it. Anyway, Rae tried a few things but they didn’t work. Toast didn’t do anything to me, or maybe I disintegrated his plan by accident. Sykkuno snuck plants into everyone’s room throughout the day until they called him out. I figured out after the first one, I have one plant in my room, not 2. Anyway, I thought it was cute how he would hide the small thing in the nooks and crannies of the room. To be fair, I think Sykkuno is cute.

April 14th

Sykkuno is so god damn beautiful it must be a god damn crime. I mean damn, arrest this man. Right now. He also stole my heart, a lesser crime, but a crime nonetheless. 

May 2nd

We went on another hike today, it’s so nice to see the spring after all that winter. I never really appreciated its beauty until you see Sykkuno talking with the newly awoken flora. He looks so excited to talk to these plants, and I honestly live for it. Sykkuno set a flower in his hair after said flower begged to have the privilege. I probably would beg for the same privilege, his hair looks so soft. What shampoo does he use? Must be gods tears or something cause it’s so silky and smooth. Anyway, he looks so cute with a flower in his hair. I wish I could run my fingers through his hair, at least once. Without fear of hurting him. 

May 14th

Sykkuno took me to voice rehab today, I may be getting my voice back.  Maybe, I'll be able to tell Sykkuno how much I love him.  My voice, I haven't heard it in so long. What will it sound like? Did it change at all? I don't know. Sykkuno said I said "Sy." But I can't seem to remember saying it. He said it was back when he first met the group from overseas.  I don't know, but he seems to have hope. Let's hope it's enough for both of us.

June 3rd

So, apparently, it's pride month. And everyone is wearing rainbow, I had to do my own research into the LGBTQ+ community. It made me think, like I've never thought about it before. I like Sykkuno, but that is the first time I've ever felt genuine romantic love. It's hard to tell exactly where I lie in this. 

Sykkuno is proudly parading around with a small rainbow pin, it's summer time now and while school may be out they still stay here because it's a safe environment for them and many of them don't have homes to go back to. Many may choose to go, but I don't have anywhere to go. I don't have anyone. I have Sykkuno. Rae and Toast, to a lesser extent the four overseas. 

June 25th 

Sykkuno's smile outshines the summer sun. 

July 4th

Today is the 4th of July, an American holiday to celebrate independence. Also known as blast fireworks and causing fire hazards. I had never experienced it before, but we lay on a hillside and watched fireworks go up and explode in bright colors in shapes.

Sykkuno looked so cute, his mouth open lightly and the colors brushing over his face beautifully. I wanted to hold his hand. I wanted to pull him into my lap. I wanted to kiss him.

July 16th

My voice is coming back. But I'm too scared to use it around others. It's deeper than I remember, raspier. I don't want to scare them away, but when they are my whole world. 

August 8th

Today was my birthday, I just realized that. Happy 18th Birthday myself, you're finally an adult now. It's fine, there's nothing to celebrate. Just the day I was put on this planet. The only thing I don't regret is this school.  And Sykkuno. 

August 9th

I don't know how they figured it out, (it was probably Lily, damn mind readers know everything). But, they threw me a party for a late birthday. Made me a cake, gave me presents. I've never had a birthday party before, it was actually kind of nice. 

Sykkuno looked cute today. I like that shirt, he should wear it more.  We also got my ears pierced for my birthday. I was very excited. Got some black studs for now. Sykkuno turned pink when he saw me after I got my ears pierced. I hope he isn't coming down with a fever. 

Rae promised she is gonna spoil me every August 8th until I die. Even if she dies first. I don't get it.  

August 21st

Sykkuno wore a flower crown today. I hope he wears it again. 

September 13th

Today, I joined Sykkuno on his morning walk. He stopped every once in a while to talk to the different plants. I don't know what the plants were saying, but I heard Sykkuno's side a few times. A few times he got flustered and looked like he was silently scolding someone. Kind of cute actually. 

I'm not used to walking every morning, but Sykkuno shyly asked me to join him again sometime. And I agreed, I was so flustered but happy. I wouldn't mind. He then glared at a couple of sunflowers. His powers are so interesting to me. Not in a, they are weird kind of way, but in an I need to know more kind of way. 

Sykkuno's powers have been described to me, the man himself said it was a tightly regulated river. Nature, it speaks to him. Every plant under the sun, every tree. I find that to be uniquely beautiful. 

Just like Sykkuno.

 September 27th

I can speak in full sentences, the doctor I do rehab with is impressed with my recovery. But I'm too scared to use it around Sykkuno. And the others. They've never heard it before, would they hate me? Tell me to leave?! Where would I go? No, I can't think like that. 

October 4th

Rae dragged us all to a "Spirit Halloween" so we can plan our Halloween Costumes. I didn't know what Halloween was until this morning. Rae was insulted I didn't know, and Sykkuno explained it to me. 

Sykkuno and I were indecisive, Rae plopped a pair of cat ears onto Sykkuno's head and my heart stopped. The small triangle-shaped fluff was so cute in his head. I think I would've died if Toast didn't bring me back to life. 

Rae was suddenly obsessed with making Catkkuno into reality for Halloween. She wants me to die. Cause of death, fucking Catkkuno. They tried a few things for me but ended up just making me the Grim reaper. Funny. 

October 17th

They ordered Sykkuno custom cat ears, I walked in on him trying them on. My soul left my body. They were Black, but the inner tufts were a gentle green. There were little flowers at the bottom, with little vines and green ribbon. 

Someone call an ambulance because my heart stopped, I still don't know how I'm still alive. I swear I fucking died. Sykkuno is gonna be the death of me.

October 31st

The night of Halloween arrived, I dressed in a black cloak and brought around a tacky plastic scythe. Rae wanted me to wear more, but I didn't see the appeal. Then I saw Sykkuno, and I thought I'd have to reap my soul. 

He was wearing a shirt that was a bit too tight, and it showed he hid muscle under all of those clothes. The shirt was black with green paw prints. He was somehow made to wear a skirt, maybe it was because he said he wouldn't knock it until he tried it. The skirt was green. Like emerald. He wore black boots and fucking fishnets. Not to mention those fucking cat ears and a collar. 

It's official, I have to reap my soul. 

November 1st:

I didn't die . 

November 3rd:

Sykkuno is so cute, I need serious help. He's gonna be the death of me.  

November 25th

Today was Thanksgiving,  I didn't know what that was. But cooking started almost immediately. Sykkuno kidnapped me for the day and we worked on some food. 

Sykkuno said I was a natural when It came to cooking. I think he just said that to make me feel better about accidentally disintegrating a few marshmallows we needed for the sweet potatoes. I liked adding spices though, that was fun. 

We all ate together, and Lily snook bye to steal some sweet potatoes. Said she needed to get her hands on some, and no one else made any. I don't know, I enjoyed the meal though. Felt like I was going to sleep and never wake up. 

November 26th

Today was black Friday, and Rae took us to Walmart. I swear I feared for my life.

Two people started to have a fucking knife fight over a kitchen set, a mother threw her child so he would get the toy he wanted before the last one was taken. Two old lady's got into a fight over a fucking toothbrush. 

Rae got into a heated argument with another girl over a weighted blanket, fucking Toast grabbed everything he wanted and booked it to check out leaving me and Sykkuno alone. We ran to the gardening section, where Sykkuno got into an argument with the fucking plants about how he didn't have any more room for more plant children and thus can't buy them. I hid under the shelves until finally, we all left. Toast walked out with everything, and Rae managed to get her weighted blanket. And Sykkuno got a new plant for the house. I got a year's worth of trauma. 

December 4th

I woke up, and exited the room to find the entire fucking place decorated with red, green, gold, and snowflakes. There was a fucking tree in the corner, Rae was making fucking pancakes and Sykkuno placed a box on the table full of sparkly objects. Apparently, since it was now December, it meant it was time for Christmas. And thus our entire home had to be decorated or we would all die. 

We decorated the tree with ornaments and lights. Then out of nowhere, Rae put at least 10 presents under the tree. She explained they were for Christmas. I am confused. 

December 25th

Christmas day, we all woke up. Correction, Rae woke up and woke everyone else up by throwing the pajamas she bought in our faces. Mine was a red and black plaid. It felt weird. Sykkuno had the same thing but green. Toast and Rae both had solid colors red and green. 

We had cinnamon rolls for breakfast and then we all got our presents from under the tree. If I gave Sykkuno one more present than the others they didn't need to know that. 

Rae bought me a completely new set of jewelry, like rings and chains. I like them. Toast got a leather jacket, probably in cahoots with Rae. And Sykkuno, precious Sykkuno, got me a new pot for my little plant that somehow came back to life. 

I think everyone liked their gift. My favorite was the cat ears Rae gifted Sykkuno. They were...cute. 

January 1st

New year's huh, last night Rae said I should kiss Sy for the new year and that was just custom. But I know I couldn't do it. But, I wished I could. I would kiss Sykkuno every day if I could, and would hug him every day. But, I'm too dangerous…

We had a good New Year's, my resolution is to get over this stupid crush of Sykkuno since the journal doesn't seem to be helping. I hope it works soon.

January 10th 

Sykkuno

Corpse looked over his journal, tapping the pen against the page. It had grown so fast, and his feelings seemed to just get worse with each passing day. There was a knock on his door, he checked the time. This is around the time Sykkuno would start his morning walks. 

"Corpse, you awake?" Sykkuno asked softly through the door. Corpse stands, hiding the journal under his bed. He then made sure he was dressed. He pulled on his chains and rings with a small smile. Corpse opens the door, and Sykkuno stands there wearing that adorable shirt, and a pair of exercise shorts. Were those socks with little dogs on them? Fucking cute.

"You want to join me on my walk today?" Sykkuno says gently, and Corpse nods.

Corpse follows Sykkuno out the door, and down the hall. Only to be assaulted by a loud "SURPRISE!!" Corpse blinked, on the wall was "Happy 1-year Corpse!!" And all of his friends and teachers were there. There was a cake and everything. Sykkuno shyly scratches his neck. And Corpse is transfixed by the motion. "So uh, you've been here for a full year now. So we threw you a party." 

He had been here a full year… He hadn't even noticed. What was life like before now? He couldn't seem to remember. Then again, all he thought about these days were Sykkuno and tests. Lily can attest to that. From the look she was giving him he knows she had read every single thought he's had about Sykkuno this morning. Fuck. 

"I'm so happy we found you Corpse," Rae said

"Yeah." Toast echoes

"Life wouldn't be the same without you," Sykkuno said shyly. Corpse's heart fluttered.

"Thank you." Corpse said shyly, his voice raspy from not speaking all morning. So his voice seemed even darker. Everyone was gaping at him, and he ducked his head embarrassed. 

"Corpse...your voice," Sykkuno said softly, and Corpse looked at him. "It's back!" This man will be the death of him. 

"Omfg, when did this happen? I am insulted to not know." Rae said

"Interesting." Toast muttered and Lily looked genuinely surprised. The two locked eyes as if having a silent conversation. 

"This is...fine and all." Corpse tried to remember how words worked and how to form them. "But, Sykkuno still….needs his walk." 

"I'm sure he can skip it one day," Rae said softly

"I don't know, strengthening his control is very important," Lily said, looking at Toast.

"Yes, it is quite important." Toast said, this time looking at Rae.

"Oh...OH! Yeah, we can wait for you two to get back for the party." Rae said

Corpse eyed them suspiciously, but his thought process was derailed as Sykkuno sneezed. Holy fuck he sounds like a kitten when he sneezes. Fucking cute. Shut up Lily. Lily laughs and he glares at her lightly.

"Okay, let's go Corpse." Sykkuno said and Corpse nodded eagerly.

"Simp." Almost everyone else said under their breath. Except for Rae, she coughed out simp. Corpse half-heartedly glares at them as the duo leaves. 

They walk down the hall and down the stairs where they eventually leave the building. Sykkuno hums lightly and greets all of the flowers at the front door for a minute before moving on. Corpse follows behind from a safe distance. "I thought I would go a different route today, there are a few plants I haven't seen for a while and I wanted to say hi." Sykkuno said gently, and Corpse followed. He was so happy all of his friends didn't mind his voice, maybe he would use it more. Will totally still use sign language because Rae never learned to use it. It's fun to agitate Rae with something she doesn't understand. They went up the mountain instead of down into the forest. But, Corpse didn't think much of it. Sykkuno said they were going a different route. Sykkuno's hands looked so soft, Corpse wished he could hold them. Just once. Maybe he should write that in the journal entry he never finished. Sykkuno stopped, greeting a few of the plants.

"Oh that's Corpse," Sykkuno said softly before his cheeks turned pink. "Oh leave me alone, he's just a friend." Right, he's just a friend...Corpse played with one of his rings. No matter what his heart wants, they will always be friends. And that's it. 

"CORPSE LOOK OUT!!" Sykkuno screamed suddenly and Corpse dodged to the left, a large mountain lion jumped past him and bounded right towards Sykkuno where the big cat bit into his shoulder. Corpse saw red, he couldn't think. Suddenly, he was launching himself at the mountain lion. He grabbed the creature, and immediately every cell began to deteriorate. He threw the big cat off of Sykkuno and it shriveled to a bit less than a rotting mess. Sykkuno was losing a lot of blood. Corpse didn't know what to do. 

"Sy! SY! Stay with me!" Corpse begged, he looked around wildly but he couldn't find anything. But then, instinct took over. 

His brain prompted him to think of happy moments with Sykkuno. Which wasn't hard because almost every moment with Sy was happy. He remembered the first time he had truly felt happy with Sy. The others had come to visit and Sykkuno was telling a funny story about plants. Corpse didn't have the right throat structure then. He couldn't laugh, but he wanted to. It was the first time he began to feel comfortable with the others. 

He remembered Sykkuno's smiling face when he gifted Corpse with a plant, the poor thing died in Corpse’s hands. But Sykkuno wasn't discouraged. Said sometimes plants can come back. Later that month he gifted the pressed flower that still hangs in his room. 

He remembered his birthday when Sykkuno was excited to see if he liked his gift. And the reverse scenario during Sykkuno's birthday. Corpse did a lot of research and found a way to get a rare flower for Sykkuno. Sykkuno loved it. 

Corpse remembered Halloween when Sykkuno wore his cat ears, and happily passed out candy to everyone. Thanksgiving where Sykkuno smiled as he cooked Thanksgiving dinner. Christmas, where he was so excited for the others to see his gifts that he forgot his own.

Finally, Corpse remembered all the small smiles he made while in the company of plants. All the cute flustered faces, the scolding faces. He remembered why he loves Sykkuno so much. 

He blinked and he was brought back to reality, his hands were on Sykkuno's shoulder. He blinked again before stumbling back horrified. Why would he do that? The wound was already bad. He looked at his hands, they were covered in blood and he started shaking. He looked over at the mountain lion, or what was left of it. He couldn't think, Sykkuno...Sykkuno was dying now he just made it fucking worse. 

He ran. 

He didn't know where he was going, but he ran. Down the mountain, through the courtyard, into the school. He ran up the stairs, pulled open the door, and ran through the crowd. "Corpse!" Rae called but he ignored her and he locked himself in his room. He fell on the floor and started crying. God, he was such a fucking monster. In the other room, everyone was looking at the door Corpse just locked confused. 

"What's going on?" Rae asks 

Lily freezes before looking out the door horrified. "Sykkuno." She ran and the rest of the teaching staff ran behind her. They disappeared down that hall. 

"Rae, talk to Corpse. I don't know what's happening, but he can't be alone right now." Toast ordered before running after the teachers. Rae walks to the door, and freezes when she hears crying. Not crying, sobbing. Rae gently knocks on the door.

"Hey Corpse, I don't know what's going on but whatever it is it's not your fault." Rae said softly "I'm here for you, even if it may not seem like it. You're like a brother to me, Corpse." She sits against the door as if to let Corpse know she was here. And she wasn't leaving. 

Sykkuno woke up groggily and blinked a few times. The sun was too bright. 

"He's awake!" A plant whispered 

"Oh praise mother nature." Another piped up. 

"Wha...What happened?" Sykkuno asked, sitting up. He felt fine, his head was a bit heavy but other than that nothing seemed off. 

"You got attacked by a mountain lion." Said a nearby tree

"A mtn lion?" Sykkuno slurred lightly, looking at the remains of said creature blankly. 

"I would've killed that beast myself if not for your boyfriend." Said a different tree

"My...boyfriend?" Sykkuno said, wondering where Corpse was.

"Yeah, lanky boy with black curls. The lion melted at his touch. And then he started muttering something crazy." A nearby rose said, "His eyes glowed white, and his hands were infused with some power."

" I've never seen it before, but your wounds stitched themselves up. I thought you were dead and mother nature would have our buds." A neighboring rose said dramatically, they were the theater nerds of the natural world. 

"I was hurt?" Sykkuno nimbly touched his body and found his clothes were torn and bloody but there weren't any wounds. 

"Not hurt anymore sweety, thank mother nature for that." An older tree said 

"Don't you mean, thank your boyfriend for that." A rose piped up

"He's not my boyfriend!" Sykkuno said, turning pink. A collective 'mmhmm' went through the group. "Yet." 

"Oooohhhh" A few plants said excitedly 

"I'd marry that man for what he did for you. Total keeper." A rose mentioned 

"If you like it, put a ring on it." Another rose added

"Did you just quote Beyoncé?" 

"Yes." 

"Where is Corpse?" Sykkuno asked, scratching his head. 

"Oh, the poor th-

"Sykkuno!"

"Lily?" Sykkuno answered, and the concerned woman came into view. She breathed a sigh of relief, and she checked over him with doctorly precision.

"Oh my god Sykkuno are you okay?" Lily asked

"Yeah?" Sykkuno responded

"Corpse came ba-" She was cut off

"Corpse? Where is he?" Sykkuno said, standing and Lily tried to get them to settle back down. 

"He's locked himself in his room." Lily said, and Sykkuno ran off.

"Sykkuno, wait, you're hurt!" Lily called, and Sykkuno ignored her. 

The others saw him and tried to stop him. But they couldn't get a hold of him. He wasn't hurt, he knew this for a fact. Corpse, he healed him. He trusted his plant friends, their words ring true. Two hands stopped him, and Sykkuno tried to escape from the grip.

"Sykkuno?! What's going on? Why is there blood?!" Toast asked, looking over Sykkuno.

"Where's Corpse?!" Sykkuno asks

"His room wh-" Sykkuno struggles but Toast holds firm. "What's going on Sykkuno?" 

"Please, I need to see Corpse!" Sykkuno begs, pulling his arms to try and get away. Toast lets go and Sykkuno runs past him onto the building. He had to get to Corpse. Sykkuno runs through the school, running into countless other people. Thankfully, he finds their room quickly. He tunnels in on the door and pushes through to open it. He opens the door and slams it shut behind him. Sykkuno goes through the house and finds Rae sitting at Corpse’s door worriedly. She looks over at him and her eyes zone in on the blood on his shirt. 

"Omg, Sykkuno what happened?" She asks, standing. Gently touching his shoulder, checking for major injuries. 

"I need to see Corpse." Sykkuno said

"Good luck, he's been locked in there for a while now. Hasn't spoken a word. Been crying the whole time." Rae said worriedly. Sykkuno takes a deep breath and softly knocks on the door "Corpse?" There was a pause before a light sob broke on the other side of the door. "Corpse, I'm okay! You didn't hurt me." 

"What?" Rae asks, but Sykkuno ignores her. 

"I know you think I'm hurt, or dying but, I'm alive thanks to you. You saved me." Sykkuno said meaningfully. "Don't beat yourself up Corpse" 

There was a pause, with no crying. It was quiet in the other room. Sykkuno presses himself against the door, as if it would disappear and he could see Corpse. Thank him. Hug him. Anything as long as he was okay. There was muttering on the other side, very quiet muttering that was hard to decipher. Sykkuno tried to listen, but he couldn't understand. Where was Toast when you needed him? Speaking of the devil, he enters the hallway and looks at their sad sight. He turns to the door and furrows his brow. 

"Corpse is saying something about how it's his imagination or something?" Toast mutters "Maybe he thinks you're a hallucination Sykkuno?" 

"What happened Kkuno?" Rae asked

"Me and Corpse were walking, when we were attacked by a mountain lion. I don't remember much, but the plants told me that Corpse healed me." 

"Corpse? Heal?!" Rae said

"Interesting." Toast mutters

"You know something we don't Toast?" Rae pesters. 

"The first time I noticed anything was up, was a couple of months ago. You see, we all know Corpse has a plant in his room and it died fairly quickly, yeah?" 

"Yeah…?" Sykkuno agreed

"Well, I was in there and the plant was alive and well. Even seemed to be flowering at the time. It didn't make any sense considering how we thought Corpse could only decay things. But, I watched closely. Every time he would smile or laugh, the plants in the room would flourish. Rae had a small cut on the back of her leg, and it healed up when she was talking to Corpse. Neither noticed it. I began to equate Corpse's powers to emotion, when he is happy, hysterical, or in love things heal and grow. This even manifests in his dreams. When he is sad or angry, things fall apart or decay, and when we found him all his life he only knew pain and loneliness. 

"So, you're saying his powers are influenced by emotion?" Rae asks 

"That is what I'm saying, yeah." Toast said

"How did he not notice?" Rae asks

"Love makes you blind." Toast said and Rae nodded, both looking at Sykkuno.

"What?" Sykkuno asks

"Don't worry." Rae mentioned, patting his hair. 

"Why don't you change, then we can try and convince Corpse to come out of the room." Toast says, edging Sykkuno towards his room. Sykkuno begrudgingly does as instructed, quickly changing to a comfy green sweater and a loose pair of black pants. As well as his favorite fluffy green socks. He walks back to Corpse's door and softly leans against it.

"Hey Corpse, I'm back. Sorry I left." He didn't get a response, to be expected. Toast and Rae were down the hall discussing something, and Sykkuno didn't want to leave without seeing Corpse.

"So, I have a theory." Toast says, looking at Sykkuno down the hall 

"Okay?" Rae says

"In theory, Corpse could have physical contact with someone if he is happy or at least neutral. It's only a problem if he feels negative emotions. So, he probably can hold hands and say, kiss someone." Toast explains 

"By someone you mean Sykkuno." Rae adds

"Seriously, those two have been dodging around each other for a full year now. I swear I can't handle a 2nd year." Toast complains 

"Amen to that." Rae agrees

"I didn't think it would take Sykkuno almost dying for them to get together." Toast says

"They aren't together?" Rae questions

"Not yet, they are definitely going to confess." Toast announces 

"Those two, confess? No way!" Rae exclaims 

"Trust me, they are totally going to confess." Toast says

"Know what, sure." Rae accepts "Omg, I'm going to plan their wedding!" 

"They aren't even dating yet, plus you never know how long it'll last." Toast says

"Those two are so hopelessly in love," Rae mentions 

"True…" Toast mutters

"Why won't Corpse open the door?" Rae asks

"He's in shock I think, he just thought he killed the man he loves with the powers he was finally coming to terms with. His perceived worst fear is coming true.  He thinks Sykkuno is a hallucination despite clear evidence he isn't. Give him a couple of hours to a day." Toast explains. 

"Ah. " Rae mutters 

As it turns out, it took all night for them to get any sort of response from Corpse. Sykkuno fell asleep against the door, he fell asleep trying to convince Corpse that he was okay. That it would be okay. Finally, after Sykkuno woke up and the others brought breakfast for everyone, they got a small "S-Sy?" 

"Corpse!" Sykkuno answered immediately.

"A-are you okay?" Corpse asked weakly through the door. 

"Yeah! I'm perfectly fine." Sykkuno answers. The door creeps open, and Sykuno expects to see Corpse's face like he always does. But instead, he found a chest. His eyes trail up the chest until finally, he found Corpse's face. 

When did he get so tall?! You don't become all legs overnight. Unless clearly, your Corpse. Corpse was looking over him, his eyes were red with heavy bags. Had he slept at all last night? 

"You're okay…" Corpse muttered, and Sykkuno nodded, "God I could just kiss you." 

Sykkuno flushed red and played with his hands lightly. "I mean, you could."

"It would hurt you...Like willingly ingesting poison." Corpse says sadly 

"It would be worth it. '' Sykkuno mutters under his breath

"What?" Corpse asks

"What?" Sykkuno repeats

"Breakfast?" Toast interjects, and the two take their respective breakfast plates. Namely, Sykkuno's was a microwaved breakfast burrito, and Corpse’s was a healthy breakfast. Yes, he still did the meal plan. Not as strictly though. They walk to the kitchen where they sit down, and eventually, Rae joins them. They all eat their breakfast and Corpse awkwardly plays with his hands. 

"So uh…" Sykkuno starts awkwardly 

"How are you doing Corpse? I hope you feel a bit better." Rae addresses

"U-uh yeah…" Corpse says softly 

"Corpse I have a theory on what happened if you, want to hear it." Toast says 

"A theory?" Corpse asks and Toast nods

"Yesterday, you saved Sykkuno's life. You healed him." Toast said boldly "I think your powers aren't decaying things, no it's controlled by your emotions. Happiness brings healing, and sadness brings decay. So, if you touched someone when you were happy or neutral at the very least, they wouldn't get hurt. Might even heal them and make them feel better." Toast explains

"I want the first hug!" Sykkuno claims 

"I will fight you!" Rae declares and Corpse giggles lightly, but frowns. He hasn't ever experienced a hug before. Because before he believed he would kill the person who hugged him. 

"Corpse, I want a hug," Sykkuno says, and Corpse almost says yes.

"No, too dangerous." Corpse said

"Please!" Sykkuno begs

"No." 

"Pretty please," Sykkuno begs, fuck he is pretty.

"No?" Corpse says 

"Just for a second," Sykkuno begs

"Nooo?" Corpse asks, if he could hug Sykkuno, could he ever let go? Sykkuno stands, and so does Corpse. Sykkuno opens his arms, and the Corpse does the first thing he can think of. He ran. Sykkuno was behind him, running along. 

"Come on, just one little hug Corpse." Sykkuno says, cornering him. Literally, he is stuck in the corner. 

"J-just one?" Corpse questions

"Just one." Sykkuno confirms 

"O-okay?" Corpse answers 

"Yay!" Sykkuno softly gets closer before wrapping his arms around Corpse and burying his face into Corpse's shoulder. Corpse froze, stock still. Sykkuno was warm, that was the first thought. His touch was warm, almost comforting. And he slowly hugged back, relishing in the comfort of a hug. He can't remember the last time he has had a hug, but this one was wonderful.

"See, it's safe." Sykkuno said softly, and Corpse zoned in on Sykkuno, not even thinking just feeling. Sykkuno goes to pull away, but Corpse's arms hold firm. 

"Just a bit longer." Corpse said softly, and Sykkuno smiles before pulling Corpse back in for another hug. 

"I swear to God you two better not be cuddling in there, without me!" Rae's voice rings before she appears looking at them. "The audacity." 

Corpse casually flips her off. "Le gasp! Corpse!" Rae says and Corpse giggles. And all was right in the world. 

"To Corpse!" Everyone cheered, they were doing the one-year party tonight seeing as last night Corpse locked himself in his room. Sykkuno was curled up like a cat on Corpse's lap, and he was softly threading his fingers through Sykkuno's hair. 

"So, when are you gonna confess to him?" Lily said, scooching over. Sykkuno was asleep.

Corpse froze and took a sip of his water, "what do you mean Lily?"

"Please, you've been here a year and I can't stand all the pining anymore," Lily complains

"I'm sure you're mis-" 

"Corpse, tell him that you fucking love him. Trust me, he won't say no. " Lily says before walking off. Corpse looks down at Sykkuno,  his hair is very soft. Soft like him. Corpse would jump at the chance to date Sykkuno, but his anxieties hold him back. Corpse looked at Sykkuno's sleeping face, he was so cute. He looks away because watching people, even if they are adorable, while they sleep is creepy. 

"Corpse…?" Sykkuno asked groggily

"Yes baby?" Corpse asks 

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to fall asleep," Sykkuno said tiredly.

"It's okay, you were tired." Corpse reasons/ Sykkuno lets out a big yawn and Corpse can't help but copy. God damn, he is like a kitten when he yawns and that shit is illegally cute. 

"Hmmm, you're warm," Sykkuno mutters, snuggling closer. Corpse almost died. "Mmcold." Sykkuno was drifting off again, and the confession would have to wait. Corpse found a blanket from the back of the couch and gently spread it over Sykkuno so he was warm. Corpse then pulls him a bit closer, and he ends up drifting to sleep. 

"You know, no one has properly explained why Corpse grew a fucking foot overnight?" Rae complains 

"That one is interesting to me…." Toast mutters

"But you have a theory," Lily says  

"You know I do Lily." Toast says and Lily just smiles. "I think the malnutrition stunted his growth, and his powers when they did heal spent all the energy on keeping him alive. But now he is healthy and happy, so his body tried to find other things to remedy. Thus the growth spurt." 

"That makes sense actually," Rae said

"Omg, look at them," Lily says, and the two look over to see the lovebirds fast asleep cuddled together on the couch.

"Omg, otp." Rae cheers taking a couple hundred...billion pictures.

Sykkuno woke up in warmth, more so than usual. Under his covers before the plants start complaining. It was quiet and comfortable. The surface he was laying on was so soft but firm and so warm. It was only when he noticed said surface was moving up and down did he figure out he wasn't just on some surface. He was on top of someone. He nervously peaks his eyes open and finds an all too familiar black shirt, and even further he recognizes the curls. He was sleeping on top of Corpse, covered lightly by a blanket. Corpse was fast asleep, holding Sykkuno close with loose arms. Corpse looked at ease, and laying like this Sykkuno had never felt fresher. Like every bend of muscle was soothed into a relaxed position. Every small cut and bruise of various, usually unknown, origins simply didn't bother him anymore. Any soreness from his position was not there. He felt perfect, was this...Corpse's powers at work? He stretched lightly and his whole body seemed to sigh before relaxing against Corpse again. He felt like he never wanted to move again, lest there be a creak in his bones or a stretch of his muscles. With Corpse’s new height, he felt small in his presence. Sykkuno had the unexplainable need to close his eyes and fall back asleep. So, he did. He slept like a baby, well maybe not like a baby because they are usually loud and cry all night, but he slept well. He was only disturbed when Corpse’s warmth seemed to be taken away from him and he fruitlessly clawed to try and get it back. There was a sweet-sounding chuckle and Sykkuno peers up to see Corpse looking at him with a smile. 

“Good morning Sy.” Corpse said gently and Sy scoffed pulling him closer

“No…More sleep.” Sykkuno whines and Corpse giggles again. 

"But it's 2 PM, and I need to use the restroom." Corpse complains 

"I don't care." Sykkuno says

"Syyyyyyyy." Corpse complains 

"Coooorppseee." Sykkuno respond

"I'm going to piss myself!" Corpse claims 

"Fineeeeeeee" Sykkuno complained, he rolled onto the floor. Corpse stood and walked away to go use the restroom. Sykkuno sighed, but then he smiled. 

Corpse looked at himself in the mirror, he looked like crap. But, he still felt Sykkuno’s warmth. Warm patches all over his body, it was…nice. Corpse wanted to do everything with Sykkuno. He wants to hug him, kiss him, and cuddle him. He wants to hold his hand and comfort him when his powers get hard to control. But Corpse was still afraid, what if something happens and Sykkuno gets hurt? He couldn't live with himself if he hurt Sykkuno. He never wanted to see him in pain again. Corpse knows he shouldn't want the physical contact, it was dangerous. But, it was a drug he needed more of. An addiction he didn't know he had. How many dreams has he had about Sykkuno, and being able to touch him and take him to places? 

Corpse groaned and pressed his head into his hands, leaning against the sink. He should give Sykkuno space, these urges of his were too much. His hands itched to write in his journal again, maybe hoping once he puts it in writing it wouldn't feel so complicated. He rakes his hands through his hair, looking at his miserable self. How could Sykkuno want him? Sykkuno was perfect and beautiful. Extraordinary in every way, and a strong man in mental fortitude and physical strength. Corpse was, none of those things. Sykkuno would sooner choose some random person who throws themselves at him then he would choose Corpse. There was a knock on the door, and Corpse sighs softly. Looking over at the innocent-looking wooden door. 

"Uh Corpse, are you still in there?" It was Sykkuno. Corpse opened the door, and looked over Sykkuno. He has the cutest bedhead, and Corpse’s heart skipped a beat. 

"Sorry, I have to use the restroom" Sykkuno said innocently 

Corpse shakes his head and moves out of the way of Sykkuno. Not quite used to being able to voice his thoughts, he feels weird when he voices things. Sykkuno closes the door and Corpse walks away, he enters his bedroom and finds his journal was exactly where he had left it a few days ago. He almost had a heart attack at the thought of someone reading it, but it was untouched as far as he could tell. He flipped to a new page. 

January 13th

Sykkuno is very warm…His smile, his hugs, and his cuddles. They are almost too warm…I don't deserve it, my soul has been cold for so long. I don't deserve to be treated so warmly considering who I am. What I am. But I long to hold him again, being able to hug someone is…It's too much for me to handle. I don't want to hurt him like I've hurt others, the best thing I can do is push him away…but could my heart survive that? 

Corpse sighs, tapping his pencil against the page a few times. This journal was supposed to help him get rid of these feelings but it only made it worse. But he's too far in now, he almost needs it now to process his very being. Corpse closes the notebook and throws it on his bed with a big sigh. 

"Corpse?" Sykkuno pokes his head into the room, and Corpse looks at him with a small smile 

"Hey…" Corpse said 

"I'm back!" Sykkuno said walking closer and Corpse flinched away. Sykkuno pauses before stepping back, he walks over to the bed and notices the black journal 

"Oooh, what's this?" Sykkuno said picking up the worn black journal, Corpse snatches it from his hands and freezes. 

"Sorry, it just…means a lot to me." Corpse supposed it did mean a lot, but he just didn't want Sykkuno reading his thoughts about him. He may die from embarrassment.

"No, I'm sorry…I shouldn't have grabbed it without permission." Sykkuno says earnestly, but he looks down with a small frown. It hurts Corpse. Corpse raises a shaky hand, he then hesitates before pushing some hair behind Sykkuno's ears. Sykkuno softly leans into his hand and Corpse’s heart pings with adoration. 

"We should…set some boundaries." Corpse said softly 

"What kind of boundaries?" Sykkuno asked sweetly and Corpse takes his hand back and fidgets with one of his many rings. 

"I wish to be the one to initiate touch… I want to be the one that gives any physical affection. I…can't trust that I'll be in the right mind if I get touched without me knowing." Corpse said softly and Sykkuno nodded 

"Of course," Sykkuno said 

"I don't want to hurt anyone again." Corpse said shakily 

"You won't," Sykkuno said with a soft smile. Corpse smiles, and pulls Sykkuno into a hug. One that he happily returns. Hugging Sykkuno was nice. 

Sykkuno noticed that whenever Corpse was just overjoyed, he would hug people. Mainly Sykkuno. Not that Sykkuno minded, Corpse's hugs were always warm and left a distinct feeling. When he was really happy, he healed you well. The others finally began to notice that since Corpse has been there, they'd rarely gotten sick. And when they did it only lasted a couple of days or even hours especially when Corpse makes you smile. Laughter is the best medicine, literally. Sykkuno was close to Corpse, he thought they were best friends! Best friends for life! He was confused when the others shook their head at him when he expressed this. 

"Really guys, Corpse is a really good friend," Sykkuno argued before huffing and taking a long sip of boba. 

"Okay, so I'm a really good friend too?" Rae asks

"Yup!" Sykkuno said 

"Have you ever thought about kissing me?" Rae continues 

"Ew no, you're like my sister," Sykkuno said instantly 

"Okay, have you ever thought about kissing Corpse?" Rae said, smirking as Sykkuno hesitates and blushed

"W-well that's different-t." Sykkuno said nervously

"What about me?" Toast said jokingly, and Rae smacked his hand lightly 

"Oh no, you're like the brother I never had." Sykkuno said 

"The point." Rae glares at Toast who is grumpy about being brother zoned, "Is that Corpse is different because you love him and want to be more than just friends." Sykkuno seemed to be having a hard time wrapping his mind around that. 

"Fine, I may have some affection for him." Sykkuno said quietly and Rae smiled because it finally got through his thick skill "But there is no way he will ever like me back." Rae slams her head into the table and screams much to Sykkuno's confusion. Toast pats her back gently in a "you tried" fashion. 

"What?" Sykkuno asked 

"Don't worry about it Kkuno," Rae said as she rubbed her forehead. Sykkuno frowned deeply, not quite understanding why Rae reacted the way she did. Like, there was no way in hell  Corpse would ever like him back. 

Meanwhile, Corpse was in his room, writing. 

Send goddamn help. Sykkuno is so cute and I love him, I want to hug him tight and never let go. But then he would be sad, and I'd never be happy if he was sad. I love Sykkuno too much to force him to be trapped, he deserves to be free…. I don't want him to force himself to try and love me just because I love him, but that's exactly what he would do. Dammit, why must I be so weak? 

 I want Sykkuno to be happy, and for that I need to get rid of these feelings. It would only make things worse between us. I don't want to hurt him, he means the world to me. 

Corpse sighs tapping the blunt end of the pen against the page. Sykkuno's smile pops into his mind, and he sighs softly. It's for the best that Sykkuno stays away from him, he needs to close his heart and get rid of his feelings. So why doesn't the thought hurt him so much? This is what Sykkuno needs right? He didn't notice he was crying until a drop landed on the page. He went to set the pen down but the pen was dust in his fingers. He pushed away from the table and lay on the floor. He curled in on himself, trying to get the tears to stop. Sykkuno matters more than some dumb feelings. This is for him. Corpse stayed there for a while, collecting himself as he tried to piece together his heart and his emotions. He was being a big baby, his dumb feelings never meant anything anyway. There was a knock on the door and Corpse rolled over lightly to look at it with disinterest. 

"Corpse~" He heard Rae call through the door. Great, they're home. 

"No." Corpse said simply, he didn't feel like using more than that.  

"Awwe, is that any way to treat your best friend Rae?" Rae asks and Corpse doesn't afford her an answer. 

"Corpse, I want to speak to you!" Rae said 

"Aren't we already speaking?" Corpse asked

"Okay smart-ass, can I come in?" Rae said 

"Doors open." Corpse said sitting up, and grabbing his journal, hiding it under his bed. The door opens and Rae smiles down at him. 

"Corpse! How are you?" Rae asked

"I was good." Corpse said sarcastically and Rae rolled her eyes.

"Really, how are you? Your eyes are red." Rae asked concerned and Corpse sighed, of course, she would notice. 

"Don't worry about it." Corpse said and Rae sat next to him a distance away.  

"Want to talk about it?" Rae asks 

"...I'm in love with someone." Corpse admitted and Rae looked at him "Someone I don't want to hurt. I couldn't live with myself if h-they got hurt." 

"Do they make you happy?" Rae asked softly

"They do, they make me so happy. The thought of seeing them smile…" Corpse smiles  

"You won't hurt them," Rae said firmly

"I can't promise that." Corpse laments

"I know you've convinced yourself that you are a danger to everything around you, but you aren't Corpse." Rae tried to smile encouragingly "Your powers are attached to your emotions and I know that when you see this person only the best emotions will appear." 

"But what if I'm having a bad day, or I don't feel safe for them to be around me. What if we get into a fight and I hurt them?" Corpse said worriedly 

"If this person knows and loves you, they will understand your boundaries and when you are ready to be near them. They will do everything to respect you, even in fights. " Rae said

"I could hurt him… He could hate me. I don't think I could live with myself if he hated me." Corpse said

"He could never hate you," Rae said and Corpse sighs gently, and curls into himself. Rae really wants to hug him but she respects his boundaries too much. The one plant in the room seems to mirror the owner, droopy and sad. 

"Do you want to be alone?" Rae asked and Corpse sat there for a moment.

"I want him." Corpse said 

"Go to him," Rae said 

"I can't get too close to him." Corpse said 

"Let him in Corpse. " Rae said and Corpse didn't answer.

Sykkuno noticed Corpse was being distant, he seemed to close himself off from him. Fewer hugs and hand-holding. He didn't seem as happy as before. Sykkuno was a tad bit worried, so he decided to ask the only thing that might know. Sykkuno knew Corpse was in class, so he walked into Corpse's room and quickly spotted the only plant in the room that was still alive somehow. 

"Hey little plant," Sykkuno says sweetly 

"Uh hello?" The plant says 

"I'm Sykkuno!" Sykkuno said with a smile 

"Hello Sykkuno" The plant responds 

"I was just wondering if the guy who lives here was okay," Sykkuno said

"Corpse?" The plant asks

"Yeah!" Sykkuno said 

"He talks to me sometimes, other times he tries to take care of me." The plant said 

"What does he say?" 

"Sorry, but I can't share that information." The plant says respectfully 

"It's fine, that was an overreach. I guess I want to know if Corpse is okay." Sykkuno said softly 

"I think he's going through something within himself, and just needs to figure it out. " The plant says 

"Okay, thank you for your time. And take care of Corpse for me." Sykkuno said with a sweet smile

"Yes sir." The plant says 

Sykkuno smiles before leaving the room, he takes a moment to consider everything. Corpse is going through something within himself and just needs to figure it out? Sykkuno knew he would be there for Corpse, and aid him in his journey. Sykkuno went back to the living room, you see he would go to his room but the plants in there get annoying with their comments and questions. Sure he could focus them away, and he does sometimes, but he loves them. Even if they annoy him. They are like his family away from home, not that he had a home to begin with. Sykkuno sat down and thought for a moment, Rae is right he does love Corpse. Just thinking about him gets his heart beating fast, and that warm feeling of honey in his heart. He couldn't let his feelings hurt Corpse, not while he's going through something. The door bursts open and Rae announces as loud as possible "Honey, I'm home." 

"Back from the war already?" Sykkuno jokes 

"Pfft- No." Rae said with a wide smile. 

"Then what are you doing back so early?" Sykkuno said back and Rae rolled her eyes 

"Oh kkuno, it's simply terrible you see my brain was irreparably damaged in the war and so they sent me home." Rae said dramatically before they both burst out laughing. 

"How was class Rae?" Sykkuno asked 

"It was okay. Like it happened," Rae said with a shrug 

"Seems legit," Sykkuno said with a head nod.  

"Did you see Corpse?" Sykkuno asked

"Why do you want to know?" Rae said with a smirk, eyeing him smugly 

"I-i just haven't seen him today," Sykkuno said, his cheeks betraying him. 

"Mmhmm." Rae hummed  

"Leave me alone!" Sykkuno shouted 

"Leave who alone?" Corpse was standing at the door, his hair bunched over most of his face. He looked so ho- handsome and cute. Sykkuno felt his already flushed cheeks heat up more. 

"Oh Corpse, we were just talking about you," Rae said with a snarky grin 

"All good things I hope." Corpse said raising an eyebrow 

"Ye-yup of course." Sykkuno said, elbowing Rae "We were just wondering when you would get back. Heh." 

Corpse looked at Sykkuno for a moment before shrugging, he then walked over to the couch where he flopped down and started playing on his phone. Sykkuno's entire body deflates as he lets out a breath he was holding, Rae laughed at him. 

"You two need each other more than you know," Rae said quietly, surprisingly genuine with it. 

"What do you mean?" Sykkuno asks

"Corpse feels most comfortable with you, he comes out of his shell the most when you are around. And you, you don't think we notice but you're still scared of falling into the ocean. But, he makes you unafraid. You two comfort each other in a way no one else can." Rae said 

"How come you can go from a smug meme lord to some kind of wise woman?" Sykkuno said 

"I'm magic," Rae said with a smile 

"Concerning," Sykkuno said

"I heard concerning?" 

"Toast! Nice of you to join us!" Rae said and Toast looked at her. " You know, when was the last time just the 2 of us did something?" 

"When did we meet Sykkuno?" Toast asked and Rae shrugged "sometime before that." 

"We should go prowl on the town." Rae said, grabbing Toast's shoulder and trying to drag him out. Toast went with it reluctantly, rolling his eyes as he followed her. 

Sykkuno was suddenly alone, with Corpse lying on the couch. Sykkuno shuffled around awkwardly wondering what to do now. He wanted to talk to Corpse, even if the man didn't feel like using his reclaimed voice. But Corpse has been avoiding him, and Sykkuno didn't want to push him away. 

"You…want to do something?" Corpse said, peeking over the couch at him. 

"Yeah okay, like what?" Sykkuno said walking over

"I don't know if we could watch a movie or something." Corpse said and a movie sounded nice, Sykkuno grabs the remote and sits next to Corpse with a plop. He turns on the TV and browses their options. "We can see if there is anything good on Netflix?"

"Sounds good." Corpse said happily. Sykkuno opened Netflix and flipped through a few of their options. It was kind of boring actually, nothing looked good to him. 

"See anything you like?" Sykkuno asked looking at Corpse, who was looking at Sykkuno already with a strange intensity.

"Yes… Oh uh." Corpse freaked out looking at the TV "I think we should watch Death Note." 

"Haven't you seen it 29 times?" Sykkuno asked

"Not with you." Corpse said and Sykkuno giggled 

"Okay, Death note it is." Sykkuno found the mentioned anime and clicked on the first episode. 

They made it through a few when Corpse leaned against him, he hadn't realized Corpse had gotten so close. The man must have been slowly moving closer. Sykkuno glanced down and saw Corpse was out like a light. Sykkuno began to notice some details he shouldn't have noticed. The way Corpse's curls didn't follow any laws of gravity, the slight curve of his lips. He could see his eyes twitch as if he was dreaming. He had massive bags under his eyes so he hasn't been sleeping that well. Sykkuno supposed since Corpse was already laying on him, he could move his arm around and pull Corpse closer slightly. Corpse sighs gently and mutters incoherently. Sykkuno couldn't tell you what happened next in the anime, he was comfortable with Corpse curled against him. A rare moment when he seemed to be without any fears or worries. Sykkuno thought about what Rae said, about how they made each other feel safe and not be scared of their powers. Sykkuno began to realize that right now, with Corpse, he felt in control of his power more than ever. Sykkuno felt himself lay his head back gently, suddenly feeling tired himself. 

He could close his eyes for just a second, and when he woke up it was darker in the house. He squints and sees the sun setting through the barely shuttered window. He looks at the TV and sees that Netflix had paused with a "Are you still watching?". He himself felt lax, his body was super relaxed, and every ache he had until this point was gone. He realizes it was due to Corpse who was still fast asleep on his shoulder. He looked adorable and Sykkuno didn't think it was right to wake him.

   The door opens and Rae stumbles in angrily, muttering about classes or something that Sykkuno didn't catch. She catches sight of the two of them on the couch and smirks evilly at them. She then conjures a camera, why? Cause she's extra. She snaps a photo and takes her stuff cackling quietly. Sykkuno sighs and looks back at Corpse. Big mistake, it made him flush uncontrollably. His crush…can he call him his crush? More like a person for whom he has affection. Anyway, he was sleeping against him so casually and usually the man hated physical affection. Sykkuno sighed again and looked at a plant that was on the coffee table. 

"Not a word." He hissed and the plant just giggled 

"A word of what? You're just cuddling with your boyfriend." 

"He's not." 

"He is though. Like the chemistry man!" 

Sykkuno decided then that he wanted to die. He would never hear the end of it if the 20 plants in his room got word that he was infatuated with his roommate. Even if his roommate is an adorable cinnamon roll who needs more love. Not only that but he was cuddled against Sykkuno like he wasn't usually afraid of touch. Corpse shifts and Sykkuno freezes, Corpse mutters something before burrowing his face more into Sykkuno’s shoulder. Sykkuno felt the soul leave his body. He needs to get this whole crush thing under control. 

January 23rd 

Sykkuno means the world to me, everything he does reminds me just how much I love him. Seeing him smile. Every time I touch his hand or hug him, a warmth spreads through my heart. I shouldn't want him and I don't deserve him but I know in my heart that I love him.

February 4th

Valentine's day is in 10 days, I think I'm going to ask him.  I know I said I need to get over it and that it's just some random crush on the first person who was ever nice to me. But I love him. Every day I get reminded that I want him and need him. I don't think I could live without him.  So, I'll ask him out. And if he rejects me then at least I'll have some closure. 

February 7th 

I have a week, God I've never been so nervous. Not even when I had my first class, and I was gonna shit myself then. I casually asked about his favorite chocolate today and he didn't think anything of it. I think. 

February 10th

4 days I think I'm gonna die. Okay, I got this. I just got to get him some chocolate and some flowers. Should I make a card? And what flowers would he like? God this is so hard.

February 12th

Okay, I got him a potted plant, I know it's basic. But I thought he would like it more than a regular bouquet. I may have been telling this thing all of my nervous confessions, I hope that they don't tell Sykkuno. Anyway, I made him a card. I tried to make the handwriting neat. I bought a box of his favorite chocolate. I just…need to ask him out. 

Corpse woke up the day of the 14th with the biggest lump in his throat. Or maybe it was a knot in his gut. Either way, he felt almost sick. He dragged himself from his bed and looked in the mirror. Which made it worse because he looked more like crap than usual. He looked at his gifts for Sykkuno. He crouched next to the plant and checked if it needed anything. Anything at all. He sighed and stood once more, he's got this. Corpse checks the time, Sykkuno would be up by now. Most likely already out on one of his walks. Corpse knew Rae got up at 12 or 1. 

For some reason, at their school, Valentine's day was a reason to cancel school. Why? No one was ever really told why. Most assumed it was because Lily was a huge simp and just wanted a whole day with her husband. No one knows for sure. Anyway, that means Rae will sleep as long as possible and Toast will be in his room having him time with silencing headphones on. That means he can ask Sykkuno when he gets back and won't be publicly embarrassed in front of everyone. He took a deep breath, grabbing his things for Sykkuno in a hug. He placed them on the table for a moment and checked the clock again. Sykkuno would be here any moment now, he usually went out pretty early. Speaking of the devil, the door opened and closed with a small click. Corpse's heart shuddered as he placed himself between the door and his presents. Sykkuno walks in with a small yawn, rubbing his eyes when they lock onto Corpse.

"Oh hey, Corpse." Sykkuno said cheerfully, "Have you had any breakfast yet?" 

"No…I wanted to talk to you." Corpse said and Sykkuno looked at him curiously 

"About what?" Sykkuno asked and Corpse felt his hands shake lightly. God, he was so cute, how was he gonna word this? 

"I…I." Corpse's hands began to shake uncontrollably 

"Permission to approach," Sykkuno asked shyly and Corpse could only nod. Sykkuno got closer, gently offering his hands to Corpse. Corpse found himself latching on, and Sykkuno gently ran patterns over his knuckles. Corpse supposed he should've been worried, after all being nervous was a bad feeling. But at the same time, he knew it was safe. 

"Take a deep breath Corpse, like me." Sykkuno took a deep breath in followed by a deep exhale. Corpse took to copying him a few times, and Corpse almost felt embarrassed he got this worked up. 

"It can wait if you aren't ready," Sykkuno suggested 

"No, I can't…." Words are so hard. "No more." He eventually gave up on articulating so he switched to signing. A language they both knew. 

'Sykkuno, will you go out?' he paused nervously 'with me?' 

Sykkuno's eyes widened slightly, and he paused, seemingly taking a few minutes to translate over and over again. Corpse's hands began to shake again, Corpse was terrified he would say no. Sykkuno took his hands again and squeezed them lightly. Sykkuno looked at him intently and nodded his head. Corpse's eyes widened a bit before he smiled. 

"R-really?" Corpse says 

"Yes," Sykkuno said 

"O-oh uh…" Corpse paused and thought about the presents, he awkwardly moved over so Sykkuno can see the presents. 

"Corpse you didn't…" Sykkuno said, releasing one of his hands to pick up the card and read it. 

"How do you do this? Uh…will you be my…valentine?" Corpse said nervously and Sykkuno giggled 

"Of course. " Sykkuno said, grabbing the chocolate and looking at the plant.

"How much do you know?" Sykkuno asked and seemingly laughed at the plant's response. Corpse flushed redly.

"Apparently, that's classified." Sykkuno clarifies and Corpse laughs nervously. 

"S-so uh where do you want to go?" Corpse asked

"Hmm…I am feeling some sushi." Sykkuno said, gently pulling Corpse towards the door. Corpse chuckles but follows Sykkuno. The idiots left the presents on the table, for everyone to see. 

They'd been secretly dating for a few weeks now, and Corpse was on cloud nine. He and Sykkuno would go out, and sneak out to their favorite spots. They've yet to have their first kiss, and Corpse knows it's because he's holding out. He's just nervous, like holding hands is so much different than actually kissing someone. Sykkuno has been nothing but patient with him. They decided to keep it a secret because they didn't want the others to get too smug, and well if things went south they didn't want the others' relationships to be heavily impacted. In reality, they were probably both too shy to declare it. Either way, they decided their small little bit of privacy was perfect. 

Corpse feels bad, he wants to kiss Sykkuno. He wants to shower him with every affection that he can, but he was deathly afraid of harming him. He couldn't imagine what it'd be like if they were having their first kiss and Corpse’s powers caused Sykkuno's lip to rot away. He knows it's dumb and knows it's very unlikely. But he didn't care, he couldn't hurt Sykkuno. Corpse woke up and it was early in the morning. Sykkuno was in his room, so he was alone. He turned over and looked at his two roommates, that being the two plants who knew too much and for now are keeping quiet to Sykkuno. 

"I don't know… I want to hold him…Touch him, kiss him. But I don't want to hurt him. I just don't want to ruin what we have with this stupid curse." He said to the plants, and naturally, they didn't say anything back. But he knew they listened.

"I should write in the journal again… I need to get this all off my chest." Corpse muttered as he sat up, he stretched widely before standing. He feels around under the mattress before taking out his rather well-used notebook. It was filling up quickly with his scribbles. Only a few pages left. Maybe it would fulfill its purpose… Whatever that may be. Corpse rummages around for something to write with and out comes a pencil which he twirls between his fingers and he goes back to the bed. 

March 13th 

I love him. His smile, his laugh. His everything. Sometimes I have to remind myself that he's mine, even in secret. Those long nights when we're together,  those moments of silence as the sun sets over the valley. 

Sykkuno is never alone, he has plants to talk with. And genuinely people like him. But whenever he's away I feel so alone. I just…miss him when he's gone. 

His lips are so soft, and kissable. I know that's entirely corny but God I want to kiss him. But I don't trust my curse. Hugs and cuddles are way different than a kiss. I just can't do it when I know it might hurt him. Sykkuno is gonna get tired of waiting and find someone who will treat him right.  I just want him to be happy. 

Corpse reads over the entry before deciding that it's adequate. He knew if he kept holding out, Sykkuno would move on. After all, he deserves physical affection as much as the emotional kind. He stuffs the journal under the bed again. He checked his plants, he took good care of them. Even though he was terrible with plants. He did it for Sykkuno. There was a happy knocking on the door and he smiled. He walked over and there was Sykkuno, who was only awake due to his morning walks. Sykkuno passes him and faces plants in his bed. 

"I'm so tired." He complains and Corpse smiles, closing the door. 

"Sleep more." Corpse said putting his pencil away 

"Hypocrite." Sykkuno said with a cute pout.

"Me a hypocrite? Never." Corpse teases sitting next to Sykkuno. 

"You're the biggest hypocrite that I know," Sykkuno said

"Guess we can be hypocrites together." Corpse said

"I'm n-....Okay fair." Sykkuno groans and Corpse cackles 

"I hate you." Sykkuno grumbles 

"Hmm…Love you too." Corpse said laying down next to Sykkuno. He rolls over and lays against Sykkuno, his head lays on his chest and he hears the gentle beat of his heart. Corpse relaxes into Sykkuno, and yawns lightly snuggling closer. Sykkuno was quiet before he started to twirl a few of Corpse’s curls around his finger. Corpse didn't feel like acknowledging this is the closest they'd been in a while, because then he would start to worry. Instead, he just let himself get comfortable, and Sykkuno didn't seem to mind. Corpse closes his eyes for just a moment. That moment grew. Sykkuno felt himself relax as well, watching Corpse curl up against him and fall asleep. Sykkuno plays with his curls lightly before letting 

himself relaxes. Maybe a little nap wouldn't hurt. 

"So, it's obvious they are dating now right?" Rae said, looking over at Toast

"Yup." Toast chirped 

"Why haven't they told us?" Rae pouts 

"Let them have their illusion of secrecy, they'll tell us when they are ready." Toast said

"I just want to tell them I told you so." Rae complains.

"You can, when they tell us." Toast said 

"This sucks," Rae said 

"Suck it up." Toast said and Rae glowered at him. 

The two woke up a bit later, cuddled together in a tangled mess of limbs. Corpse found he wasn't sure where his body started and Sykkuno's began. But, he didn't feel like figuring it out. He was too comfortable. Sykkuno muttered something in his ear. Corpse looked up at him, he looked so cute. He averted his eyes, it was creepy to watch people sleep.  

"Corpse?" Sykkuno asked groggily and he looked back at Sykkuno who was looking at him. "Good morning." Corpse smiled happily, he loved this man. 

"I guess it's afternoon now…" Sykkuno said and Corpse hummed "Do you have any classes today?" Corpse shook his head no. He has classes every other day. Why? Because their classes are more like colleges, they choose how many and when. 

"That means we have the day to ourselves." It's times like these that neither remembers Corpse could talk, Sykkuno was so used to eliciting silent responses and Corpse was used to giving them. Corpse supposed Sykkuno might get tired of leading the conversation one day. 

"Date." Corpse says and Sykkuno giggles 

"Our own little at-home date." Sykkuno said and Corpse nodded 

"Are you two treating him well?" Sykkuno asked looking at the plants, Corpse watched intently "oh of course! They want me to thank you for taking such good care of them." 

"I don't know about that." Corpse said, "I just water them sometimes." 

"They say you take really good care of them, and that if you don't agree they are gonna tell me everything." 

"Fine, fine, I do take good care of them." 

"So you really don't want me to know?" Sykkuno asked 

"Yes." 

"What does he tell you?" Sykkuno asked, "Oh well, guess I don't get to know." 

Corpse looks at Sykkuno's warm smile, he wants to kiss him. He knows it's childish, but he really wants to. Corpse gets a random surge of confidence and he crawls so he and Sykkuno are practically face-to-face. 

"I want to kiss you." Corpse said and Sykkuno blinked a few times surprised 

"O-oh Corpse, don't feel pressured to do anything. I'm okay with just this." Sykkuno sputters

"But I want…I want to." Corpse said desperately, he was losing his nerve. 

"If you want to, then I want to too," Sykkuno said nervously and Corpse leans down slowly, getting closer to Sykkuno. God he's never kissed anyone before, what if Sykkuno hated it? He couldn't think like that. No, he was going to do it. 

He leans in and closes his eyes nervously. Their lips met hesitantly, and Corpse found himself slowly sinking into the kiss. Sykkuno, in turn, tries to kiss back, in reality, neither knew how to do it effectively but they were acting like they do. It was over not long after, but when they broke the seal they both felt breathless. Corpse looked at Sykkuno intently, and Sykkuno smiled at him. Corpse goes back and curls up with him. Placing his head onto Sykkuno's chest, listening to his heartbeat again. It was beating as fast as he was. 

"Was that…okay?" Corpse asked nervously

"It was more than okay." Sykkuno whispered as if speaking too loud would break their moment.  

"I love you." Corpse whispered, it was the first time it was meaningful like this. The first time it was something more. It slipped from his mouth so easily he was surprised he hadn't said it before. 

"I love you too." Sykkuno replied gently, playing with Corpse’s curls again. It calmed him and he felt comfortable to be close like this.

"You know, when I walked in here I had a pretty bad scab on my knee." Sykkuno said innocently 

"Sykkuno." Corpse lectures 

"Can't stop a guy when he trips thinking about his boyfriend, it's bound to happen." Sykkuno said "I just can't stop falling for you." 

"I'm leaving." Corpse tried to get up and Sykkuno pulled him closer.

 "Noooooooo." Sykkuno begs 

"Sykkuuuunnoooo." Corpse whines

"Don't leave me." Sykkuno says

"Fine." Corpse said laying back down "dork" 

"Did you just call me a dork?" Sykkuno asked

"Yes." Corpse said 

"I hate you." Sykkuno said

"I thought you loved me?" Corpse said 

"I do love you." Sykkuno sighs

"Good. Because I want more cuddles." Corpse said and Sykkuno laughed.

April 3rd 

Been a while since I wrote in this journal, I've been busy. Spending days and nights with Sykkuno. God I'm so lucky he even looks at me. With his cute smile, and fluffy hair. And his adorable laugh. Kissing him is so electric, and amazing. Stupendous. Either way, Sykkuno and I kiss a lot now. Maybe too much. I don't know where my confidence came from, but suddenly I wasn't afraid to be near him. I want to be in his presence so I can bask in his glory. 

A couple of nights ago we had a serious conversation about telling the others. I felt it was going well, and Sykkuno agreed that he didn't want to let go of me any time soon. So there was no more doubt this was serious. The others deserve to know, after all, they are our family in a way. I mean, they are the only family I have left. We agreed that it was time we came clean and told everyone. Sykkuno seemed nervous about it and I can't blame him. 

April 7th 

Sykkuno is beautiful….Uh, that's not what I meant to write but it's not incorrect. What I meant to write was-

The door burst open and Corpse slammed the journal closed, Sykkuno smiled widely at him. Corpse set the book down to the side and walked over to Sykkuno. He hugs Sykkuno and kisses his cheeks. 

"I love you." Corpse said happily 

"Awwe, Corpse I love you too," Sykkuno said 

"When are we gonna tell the others?" Corpse asks 

"When you want," Sykkuno said

"But, I want to when you do." Corpse said 

"Well then," Sykkuno said 

"I mean I'm okay if you're okay with it." Corpse said

"I mean if you're ready then I'm ready too," Sykkuno said 

"Like if you are feeling it then I can vibe." Corpse said

"If it is what you want, then I want it too," Sykkuno said and the two paused when they realized they were getting nowhere. 

"Okay, let's do it." Sykkuno said resolutely

"Yeah!" 

Actually telling the others was harder than they thought. They found that as they sat there awkwardly holding hands at dinner that night. They would squeeze hands occasionally but neither worked up the courage. 

"Sooooo,." Lily started with the smuggest grin she's ever held on her face. "Anyone have anything that they would love to share?" She looks at the two of them expectantly 

"I mean. I can conjure food now." Rae said making a random bowl of ramen "still tastes a bit funny though and doesn't have any real nutrients." Lily half glared at her. 

"Actually I…Corpse and I would like to make an announcement." Sykkuno said

"I knew it," Rae said immediately 

"We're dating…?" Sykkuno said confused 

"Oh wow, really?" Toast asked 

"Never would've guessed," Lily said innocently

"I'm just so surprised," Rae said immediately 

"You knew didn't you." Corpse said

"The whole time." The others agreed

"Damn." Corpse said and Sykkuno patted him gently. "Well this is awkward." 

"We're so happy you figured it out because the pining was exhausting," Rae said

"So exhausting. You two were both in denial." Lily agreed  

"You would know huh." Corpse said 

"Well, Sykkuno can be hard to read sometimes but you don't tend to hide it. "Lily explained 

"I…I don't have an excuse I'm just gay." Corpse sad and Sykkuno giggled 

“Soooo…” Rae drawls “When’s the wedding?” 

Their friends commenced to wiggle their eyebrows while Sykkuno and Corpse blushed. 

Sykkkuno hummed to himself, he was unpacking the boxes in the new home he shares with his husband. It was fun to see all of the old things and clutter they just couldn’t get rid of. Sykkuno found some old artworks of his plants naturally. And a few old sketchbooks. But then he found a worn leather bound notebook that was tied together with a string. He recognized it, it was Corpse’s from back at the academy but what was it doing here? Corpse burned all of his old school papers and notebooks, and made a grand show of it too. Lily was amused, while also unamused. Like she was laughing but looked like she might strangle him. 

“How’s my beautiful husband?” Corpse said entering the room

“Oh! Corpse! What is this?” Sykkuno said holding up the book and Corpse walks over 

“Oh, that old thing.” Corpse said, rubbing the back of his neck nervously. He takes it from Sykkuno and opens it, flipping through it quickly. “I used to write in this stupid thing all the time.” 

“Is it like a diary?” Sykkuno asked curiously 

"Something like that." Corpse muttered, tracing something on the page "I used this to try and get over my feelings for you, as you can see it worked great." 

Sykkuno giggled "Obviously." 

"I think it had the opposite effect. it reminded me of everything I love about you." Corpse said

"You're a sap," Sykkuno said

"You knew that." Corpse said "If you want..we can read it together. There isn't anything you don't already know". 

"It would be a breach of your privacy though," Sykkuno said 

"Not if I'm letting you read it, come on it'll be fun." Corpse said 

"Aren't you worried I'll figure out your deepest secrets?" 

"Again, not anything you don't already know." Corpse said with a smile 

"Okay, let's do it then!" Sykkuno said happily 

The two stole away to the couch, where Sykkuno sits down clutching the book that Corpse gave back to him. Corpse finds a blanket and sits down. He lays the blanket over their lap and cuddles close to Sykkuno. Sykkuno cracks open the book. 

"March 20th, Today…"