Archive of Our Own

Past midnight, the Roblox HQ was fairly quiet. The lower floors of the large, glass building only had a few occupants; finishing up their work, planning to spend an all-nighter or packing up their stuff and clocking out - though, one worker stood out in particular.

Shedletsky’s feet clicked against the building’s marble floor as he pressed his index finger against the down-pointing button on the wall, dinging an elevator in. When the familiar sound of smoothly sliding doors snapped him out of his bored trance, he walked inside, pressing the numbered button to the highest digit. The ride to the highest floor wasn’t very long, but the height from which he was being lifted from certainly was. One of the walls of the elevator was made entirely of thick glass, allowing the man to peer down at the entire city beneath him. The small droplets of rain on the glass fisheye the concrete campus surrounding the building; the multiple chains of fancy restaurants, a bustling mall complex and zooming vehicles, the mix of orange and blue windows and streetlights from the ground couldn’t reach Shedletsky’s skin, his clothes or even the elevator itself. The only light was the white, modern light that hung above his head and the small twinkles coming from the stars dabbled in the sky. 

It had been a while since he’d last seen his buddy, Builderman, especially since the company was covered in rubble. Shedletsky and the other administrators were too busy doing endless amounts of paperwork to have even a slither of time to themselves, but luckily for Shedletsky, he had been tasked with sending one of these papers up to Builderman’s office. He gladly took the task head on, despite feeling like he was a pull away from coming apart. The elevator came to a stop, snapping him out of his thoughts. As the door opened, he slid through the cracks and half-assed all his steps until he eventually spotted Builderman’s office at the end of the hall. The room was huge, even on the outside. The giant, foggy glass wall looked much prettier than any of the stuff downstairs. Shedletsky sighed a little before pushing his palm against the blurred, glass door, his vision cleared and he spotted his boss - or, his friend, rather - sitting at a large, black desk, hard at work.

Builderman perked up, his tired eyes blinking a few times, readjusting after staring at nothing but his laptop and pen and paper for hours on end. He grumbled, throwing his head defiantly back to the sheet between his palms, hoping this would be important. Hell, he loved spending time with Shedletsky, but the company was drowning in controversy. As the CEO he disappointingly had to fill out every little slab and sliver of paperwork that was begrudgingly printed out, as well as having to super-glue his attention to all complaints and frustrations thrown in the community, whether it was about him specifically or not. Shedletsky didn’t look too stoked either. It wasn’t uncommon at all for the man to waltz in, skip around and throw phrases like a cartoon character just because he was bored. But, silence filled the rainy, dark office area as his bare heels clicked against the untainted marble floor, walking up to the desk rather calmly for a man who seemed to almost never run out of energy.

He reached his palm out over the table, Builderman lifted his head, his eyes meeting the stack of finished paperwork that was assaulting his blurry vision.

“Here, Builds. All the papers you asked for, one and done.”

He spoke low, his voice filled with a feigned nonchalance, but it was clear something was bothering him. He was never calm because he wanted to be, he was only calm when he had to be. Builderman raised an eyebrow before slowly taking the papers out of the admin’s hand, the weight quickly transferring from yellow to grey palm. He plopped it down onto the side of his desk with ease, then turned his attention back to Shedletsky.

“What’s up with you?”

He spoke with unintentional bitterness in his voice, residue from all the meetings and questionnaires he had to fill out for angry people these past few burdensome, busy days.

Shedletsky glared at him a little, but soon shrugged it off and sighed with the roll of his eyes.

“Just the, uh. Y’know- Company.. and all? It’s been.. annoying.”

Shedletsky looked a little down in the dumps, his voice laced with an underlying aggressiveness, as if he was trying to imply something toward the CEO. Builderman noticed this quickly; it was extremely out of character, but he decided not to comment on it. Maybe it was just his sour mood, but Shedletsky sounded a little accusatory.

“Yeah, yeah.”

All Builderman could do was awkwardly agree. He looked down to his desk, blankly staring over at printed, monochrome words, but not actually processing any of the language he burned his grumpy eyes into. Shedletsky sighed, sitting down into the chair behind him, scooting up a little then leaning backwards, sinking depressingly into black, office leather.

“And most, like- all of my commands haven’t been working correctly. It’s so weird!”

He complained, looking at the ceiling, then rolling his head over to the side to lazily occupy his eyes with the foggy, pale-blue sky and citrus-orange lights that stood just miles behind the window. Builderman would normally feel bad, normally he’d try to comfort the man or give him some support - but right now, his head was a mess, and as he angrily stared down at the drawer of his desk that carried infinite stacks of paperwork that persistently taunted him and lead him on an infinite mouse chase, he felt lost in his own business. His head switched to solo, the complaints of the other man reminded him tartly of the nagging mobs he resentfully had to please. 

Builderman let out a sigh, the buildup in his chest releasing, leaving a hole between the bars of his ribcage that felt fiery and, frankly, left him feeling even more pissed than he was just a few seconds ago.

“Yeah.”

He spat out. Shedletsky’s eyes widened and softened moderately, the air suddenly turning awkward as they both realized just how irked they were. Shedletsky felt himself tense a little, he suddenly felt like anything he spoke would break the rope that tied their tempers. But, he wasn’t the type to shy away from a challenge, was he? Oh, no. Builderman knew this well, too, and he could feel his nerves twisting with fury as he anticipated the admin’s next moves, he was filled with reticence that was cracking through his skin, like poking holes through a flimsy bag of water.

The air was tense and quiet for a moment, before Shedletsky broke the silence.

“Relax, Builds. It’s not like you’re drowning in your financial mistakes or anything dumb like that.”

He barked sarcastically, attempting to jab playfully like he normally did. Builderman’s eyes immediately locked onto the man’s face. That stupid, epic grin peering over his lips infuriated Builderman beyond his breaking point. The CEO let out a rough groan under his breath, leaning back against his chair like a real boss would. Shedletsky immediately dropped the grin as he realized this was about to flip on a dime.

“Seriously?” Builderman snarled.

“What?” Shedletsky worried.

“Seriously? Yer gonna pull that card right now?”

Shedletsky paused, his chest tightening with confusion and a slight sense of guilt, but Builderman’s words also made him feel.. A little aggravated. He froze awkwardly, looking like a deer in headlights with his shoulders puffed up and his fingers borderline gripping his seat.

Builderman straightened up a bit, one of his hands flying out to the side exasperatedly as he spoke.

“Are jokes t’ only thing on yer mind? Because yer not humourin’ me right now.”

He raved, trying to keep his voice on a low note, but it just ended up making him sound more pissed. Shedletsky tried to reply, his voice quiet and small like a child’s;

“Im just trying to lighten the mood-”

“Really? Because nothing is funny right now. We’re in deep shit and I’ve been takin’ care of more work than all the admins combined fer the past week.”

His tone darkened and trebled low toward the end of his sentence, his voice and stance taking on the persona that Shedletsky’s actual chairman would have. This wasn’t Shedletsky’s friend, this was Shedletsky’s boss. Shedletsky seemed to remember that Builderman had complete control over his position, and that at any moment, he could assign a punishment. They were close friends, so he heavily doubted it would happen, but his heart still raced in suspense. A long string of silence lingered between them in the air, it felt like holding boiling water against their tongues.

“I know, but, I just.. thought it would’ve helped.”

Shedletsky’s voice notched a little higher, he looked disappointed. Another moment of silence, and Builderman’s observing eyes grew the tiniest bit softer. He sighed, looking down and shaking his head, immediately feeling guilty for lashing out so suddenly.

“No,.. no,”

Builderman spoke with penitence, his heart caving in on itself at the realization that maybe, just possibly, he might’ve taken things much too seriously and much too personally. As he paused, he hesitantly started to speak again, breathily apologizing,

“It's just.. Look, im sor-”

“I mean, it probably would’ve helped more if you weren’t the one that got everyone into this mess.”

Builderman instantly snapped his eyes onto the admin, his posture straightening again.

With another stiff capsule of silence that they were stuck between, they both looked at each other with underlying vexation.

“What?-”

“Y’know. This company is crumbling because you decided to pull a stupid move. I mean, if anyone else were the CEO they’d known better.”

Shedletsky rolled his eyes, his tone dripping with mockery. This wasn’t the type of humor Builderman was used to. This wasn’t funny at all. Builderman’s shoulders tensed, then he sat up in his chair again. The sound of rain pattered faster against the window, as if the weather fed off of their distress. 

Shedletsky’s arms were crossed. Builderman’s eyes glared daggers. 

They were both stiff as wooden boards.

The air stiff, their arms stiff, their seats stiff, their mouths stiff - shut like muzzles, just waiting for a strap to be cut to dig at each other’s throats. 

Builderman was tired of holding his tongue. “Whadda you know about running a company?”

His voice was shallow with venom, his eyes narrowed, poking holes through Shedletsky.

“More than you, apparently.”

The admin pitched back, his eyes narrowed, matching Builderman’s pace.

“Really? You want me to believe your sorry ass would know even t’ first thing about this job?”

“And you want me to believe you’re not the biggest dumbass in history after what you pulled?”

Builderman darkened at that, his face quickly becoming cold, the guilt in his stomach completely washed away, leaving no room for remorse.

“They’ll get over it. Robloxians are always crying. Small changes are like wildfires to them, it's ridiculous.”

Shedletsky freezes. Was he serious? The admin thought. He stared in stale disbelief, his brows furrowing and his eyes static in dismay. Did Builder really think that lowly of the citizens?

“You really lost it, Builder. What happened to putting our people’s comfort over money?”

He spat out defiantly, his vocal cords stressed, almost sounding like he was pleading for this to be some sort of sick, twisted prank - that the other admins would come around the corner yelling “Surprise!” with cakes and bows and candles in their hands. His stomach tightened as Builderman did absolutely anything in his power to avoid the other man’s gaze, his breath lingering before every sentence like a disappointed father.

“Our people tend to overreact. Sacrifices are unfortunately necessary sometimes. But it’s not like you would know anything about that. Ya’d do anythin’ to stay comfortable, you never take risks.”

His words painted in a burning acid, the frustrations of their worklife catching up to them and breaking a thin, worn wire that kept them from speaking rashly. The conversation turned claustrophobic, to an argument that rimmed Shedletsky’s stomach with disgust as he continued to be accused. 

“What the hell are you talking about? I’ve taken plenty of risks, but never ones that deadass harmed other people like-”

Builderman slammed his hand again the table,

“Stop whining. You sound just like those annoyin’ crowds. It's infuriating.”

Shedletsky let out a small gasp, freezing for only a moment as the man’s fists juddered against the desk. The admin took a short moment to gawk, his jaw unhinged like a confused bird before squawking out another charge.

“Don’t cut me off! You’re literally not listening! The hell’s happened to you, Builder?!”

The yellow swordsman stood up from his seat, his feet pattering against the ground with a loud thud. His eyes showed a fierce blaze, like the piercing blade of a firebrand. Builderman returned the same look. The cold, frigid look in his leering eyes were enough to remind one of that dark, pale-blue; painted precisely against the unforgiving banhammer.

Builderman stood up from his seat, baring his teeth as he spoke. They stared at each other, a tense showdown.

“Don’t speak to me like that.”

“I’ll speak to you however I want, especially when you’re acting like this!”

The muscles in both their bodies were stiff, bordering on painful, holding themselves back like coiling snakes.

“You’re childish, y’know that? Childish.”

Builderman bit back, and Shedletsky snarled;

“And YOU’RE childish for treating them like this!”

Builderman scoffed, his shoulders twisting up and down with his breath. His words reeked with mockery as he leaned back, one of his grey hands coming upward and grabbing the rim of his orange hardhat, shifting it as he spoke.

“Do you even know what that word means?”

Shedletsky was immediately offended by the change in topic. This was more than just an argument, this was a fight. Neither of them wanted to change their stance, or even begin to see the other’s point of view. With every gruelling sentence fired between the two, Shedletsky’s body ached for a brawl, being poked with the stick of aggravation.

“Of course i- what- why does that matter- IT DOESN’T MATTER, the point is – you’re being stupid!-”

Builderman’s sarcastic smile dropped, his pupils darkening. He cut the admin off,

“You’re such a prick, y’know that? Don't stick yer head where it doesn’t belong, Shedletsky.”

Shedletsky slammed his palm down onto the table,

“I have every right to comment on this, it’s literally my job!”

Builderman’s eyes widened only slightly to give a short glance at the force of Shedletsky’s hand. He wanted so, so badly to just slap his hand off that flat surface. He scowled vaguely, his tone growing deeper.

“Concerning ya’self with the CEO’s personal choices is not part of your job description. Go.. take a break, or somethin’.”

He trailed off, looking to the side and trying to dislocate the conversation. Shedletsky wasn’t having it.

“No, I'm not gonna let this slide like that! Builder, you’re really telling me you don’t care abou-”

This only served to piss the CEO off even more. He snapped his head toward Shedletsky again, puffing his shoulders and slightly moving over the desk.

“I could give less of a damn about what the others think. Again, they’ll get over it, Shedletsky, but you don’t seem capable of understandin’ that-”

Shedletsky took the same stance, the both of them coming closer, like two bucks ready to duel.

“No, I’m capable of understanding you’re a complete asshole! Take this back!”

Both of their palms tightened against their respective sides of the desk, the nerves in their knuckles sifting through their system, losing the battle to resisting a brawl.

“I can’t just take back a decision like that, Shed.”

Shedletsky’s face casted down.

“take. it. back.”

“No. No, I’m not-”

Shedletsky threw his head back, moving exasperatedly. He let go of the desk, instead bringing both his hands together to jab at the air towards Builderman, as if the CEO was an uncrackable math problem.

“Ugh, you seriously don’t care! Oh, to Roblox, I didn’t realize you were so heartless!”

“Yer not in the right headspace.”

Shedletsky’s face dropped, another wave of disbelief taking over his features. His hands drooped down to his sides, his arms giving out voluntarily. The rain against the window was harsh, small bits of thunder cupped at their ears as the air suddenly went stiff again.

Shedletsky spoke carefully, yet hastily at the same time, his pitch extremely accusatory.

“Are you calling me crazy?”

As another desert of silence washed between them like falling grains of sand, suffocating the back of their throats like being shot at the tongue, Builderman stared at the man with as much nonchalance that someone would be able to carry while being peeved beyond their limits. He felt daring, he was angry enough not to care what happens beyond this point. All he wanted to do was put Shedletsky in his damn place.

“Maybe ya are.”

Shedletsky was taken aback by the sudden immaturity that carried Builderman’s tone, a genuine insult falling from the construction worker’s lips as if it was something he’d practiced in the shower. Builderman almost called it wraps until Shedletsky opened his mouth again.

“You know what? Fuck you.”

The heavy weather sounded quiet as he spoke, both their hearts stopped beating for a moment. Their race to respond hastily caused the world to stop spinning between them. This wasn’t an argument, they’d gone far past that.

“Excuse me?”

“You heard me.”

Shedletsky fearlessly uttered.

“Fuck. You.”

With that, their thoughts turned dark, their last bits of restraint coming loose, undoing itself like the pull of a leash, attached to a collar, clinking off and letting them both free, but the freedom was only going to cause more trouble to brew.  

Builderman scowled,

“Get out of my office.”

Shedletsky took that as a suggestion, though. He fought against the idea, pushing his palms against his seat and standing up, peering over the desk, challenging the other man.

“No.”

“Yes.”

“Not happening.”

Builderman fumed at that. His hands gripped the edge of the desk, pulling himself upwards, a daring glare gleaming through both of their sharp pupils. He knew this would come as difficult; in Builderman’s frustrated eyes, Shedletsky never knew when to drop something.

“You talk to all of your bosses like that? Or just me?”

Shedletsky leaned forward some more, causing Builderman to go rigid as the man bared his fangs.

“I talk to anyone like that when I know what I’m standing for is right.”

Builderman thought that was crap. He clicked his tongue mockingly,

“You always stick your head where it doesn’t belong.”

Builderman barked, his voice rough like an abused slab of concrete,

“YOUR job is to fill out these papers, do as you’re asked and leave. None of the drama going down at the higher ups is any of your business, even if it affects you. It’s our job to take care of this.”

Shedletsky was full-heartedly appalled. His body instinctively launched forward, his hands slamming against the desk.

“Even if it affects me?”

He spoke, raising his hands to do air quotes and then slamming them down against black wood as he snapped;

“Are you serious? You have to be dumb! Of course I'm gonna say something if it affects me, Builder, why are you-”

“Because it’s not in yer damn paycheck to worry about it. Quit wasting time and go clock out, if you’re tired off yer ass tomorrow you’re not gonna be able to give it yer all. We need all the help we can get.”

Builderman snarled through his teeth and cut the man off rudely, chewing and spitting out the admins words, the highest sign of disrespect. Deep down, they were both afraid of this escalating, but they were far enough into the rabbit hole not to stop. They didn’t want anything to be ruined between them, no, not at all, but it was hard to hold back the urge to threaten their relationship just to see the other’s reaction. They were testing each other's limits with foggy heads, both of them yammering away like rabid animals.

“You’re heartless.”

Shedletsky hissed. Builderman’s expression dropped and he let out a heavy, defeated sigh. He looked less aggressive and more fed up, as if he’d do anything just to end this stupid argument, as if he’d do anything to just get Shedletsky out of his damn office. He rolled his shoulders as he spoke,

“Whatever helps you sleep at night.”

“Yeah, and how do you sleep at night? After all of this?”

Shedletsky immediately barked back, he wasn’t even close to backing down anytime soon. He wasn’t done with this, he was confused and he wanted answers. He felt like he was talking to a stranger, he could barely tell that this was even Builderman he was speaking to. If someone were to break the news to them that this was some sort of AI or replica of the infamous CEO, he’d believe it in a heartbeat. It’d been so long since they’d had a serious conversation, but he didn’t think Builderman’s views would've aged this badly over the years. He lingered for a moment longer, searching Builderman’s deadpanned features for any signs of talk-back, but alas, it went silent. The heavy rain sifted between the two as Shedletsky opened his trap again,

“What? You’re not gonna say anything, old man?”

He poked fun at the man’s age, despite not being much younger. Builderman scoffed, he thought the childishness was sickening.

“Real mature.”

Builderman quipped back, like a principal scolding a student. His smile was nowhere to be seen, he raised his eyebrow in amusement. He’d be lying if said the conflict wasn’t at least a little entertaining.

“Oh, so you wanna respond when I call you old, though. I see. You’re insecure, aren’t you?”

Shedletsky narrowed his eyes and put his hands on his hips, attempting to tease him and rile something exciting out of the other man. Builderman didn’t care. He didn’t roll his eyes, he didn’t shrug his shoulders, he didn’t even furrow his eyebrows. He spoke with a flat voice, 

“Sure.”

Shedletsky’s arms came down to his sides, the way that he was so easily dismissed made his stomach churn with anger. Shedletsky shut his mouth, hoping, waiting for anything else. A sentence, a word, a whisper.. Anything would suffice, and yet, Builderman was dead silent. Time seemed to stretch to each corner of the office, until he eventually got sick of the silence. The rain felt like spilling acid into his ears, every drop against the giant glass making his fists clench with anticipation. It was so annoyingly quiet.

“You’re fuckin’ weird.”

He insulted the construction worker. It was too quiet. Yet again, another hitch in Builderman’s throat made the air stiffen, making Shedletsky clench his teeth.

“Remind me again why I should just.. ‘Stay quiet’ about all this? ‘Cause apparently I don't have freedom of speech?”

He tried to start the argument again, to ask a more specific question, but Builderman stared at him with little to no emotion, as if he was uninvolved. As if they’d never talked in the first place, and it made Shedletsky feel like he was talking to a brick wall. He felt like he was going crazy. He snarled,

“Seriously?”

He tried. Builderman didn’t budge.

Another string of silence strangled them.

“Builds, you’re really just gonna give me the silent treatment?”

He tried again, and to nobody’s surprise, Builderman simply stood back and stared. His gaze was judgemental, and it made bugs crawl up the admin’s skin.

“Say something.”

He was practically begging for a response. The silent treatment worked better on him than Builderman would’ve imagined, he secretly felt a little proud of himself. Shedletsky, however, was beyond bugged. He brung his hand up to the man’s face abruptly and started waving, causing Builderman’s eyelids to flinch, which caused Shedletsky to cling dearly onto his last piece of hope at getting any sort of reaction.

“Hellooo? Earth to Builderman? Say something you stupid-ass.”

Builderman only narrowed his eyes in response, vaguely annoyed by the motion in his face, but he stood as stiff as a board. Shedletsky sighed quickly and disapprovingly, bringing his arm down after he got bored. This was starting to get less entertaining, he wanted a straight answer. He didn't even remember why he wanted a response anymore, he just.. did.

“Speak, dude.”

Shedletsky sounded completely fed up, his tone flat and prodding. The quietude was maddening. Shedletsky could not fathom the amount of anger he felt in that moment. Why was Builderman being so rude? Why was Builderman going against everything they ever stood for? What’s the company’s future? Why is Builderman being so discreet? Why won’t his own best friend of over a decade speak to him?

He clenched his fists,

“Anything, dude!” He begged, his words strained and distressed. He couldn’t even bother hiding how confused he felt.

“Don’t leave me hangin’! Just-” 

Shedletsky leapt forward, slamming his yellow palms onto the sable desk. He leaned forward, getting straight into Builderman’s personal bubble. Builderman looked pissed at this.

“Just, SAY SOMETHINg–”

He was cut off with a slap, his lips felt locked together, as if someone had just zipped his throat shut. Shedletsky stammered, his eyes widening as he realized what happened.

His eyes trailed from the smokey, grey hand on his mouth all the way up to the irritated shimmer in Builderman’s sharp features. The rain was suddenly much more comforting than any response that the CEO could possibly give. The weather seemed to dim as the air froze and everything just.. stopped. The tension was replaced with something else, a newfound sense of surprise tied between the two.

Builderman seemed to realize what he did when he saw the frightened look in Shedletsky’s eyes, which caused him to soften. He had barely realized what he’d done. He’d shut him up, quite literally. The muscles in Builderman’s hands seemed to lighten, his grip becoming loose around the admin’s mouth, but he didn’t let go either. Shedletsky felt embarrassed, exposed, and vulnerable.. It made his skin crawl, the hairs on his arms flaring up like ruffled feathers. Even though Builderman’s eyes were soft and friendly, and the man frankly looked just as frightened as he did, but even then he couldn’t help but feel intimidated. Builderman’s hand softly shook against the man’s face, his nerves wrecking his self control, Shedletsky noticing immediately. He felt rough, grey skin rubbing nervously against his chapped lips, like some sort of lip balm. 

There was no thunder. There were no plane motors outside, no hurtful words uttered, no electrifying slams against the desk and the rain was so quiet they’d both assumed they’d gone deaf from the tension.

When Shedletsky started to recover from his previous shock, he felt disgusted that he hadn’t swiped the man off of him yet. He wasn’t sure why he hadn't. Why didn’t he? Why doesn’t he wipe that stupid, soft look off of the CEO’s face once and for all? 

To answer truthfully; he couldn’t bring himself to do it.

A sense of obligation to obey overtook him the moment that Builderman’s fingers reached him, and it pained him that he couldn’t explain why – why, not even at a gunpoint could he tell you the reason he was dreading the thought of this moment being over. But, despite that, he still felt pissed.

Builderman also seemed to snap out of it as Shedletsky’s face shifted to a bright orange around the bridge of his nose and cheeks, as if someone had beaten him with makeup powder. It tainted the admin’s skin and exposed his thoughts like an open book, and Builderman found himself affected, a dark grey blush tainting his rough face. Shedletsky’s pupils were comically small, his emotions worn on his white sleeves, he was furious and embarrassed. His eyebrows were angled downward, he was livid. Builderman swallowed nervously and leaned his body backwards, trying to make space between their faces.

Builderman’s heart stopped completely, he didn’t feel angry anymore, no, not at all. He felt guilty, almost, but he felt compelled to stay in place. He expected Shedletsky to start throwing hands with him, to beat him to a bloody pulp, but they were just.. staring at each other. Waiting until the other person made a move. 

A new feeling emerged and tickled Builderman’s stomach, a welcoming kind of sickness that he wasn’t so familiar with. 

Shedletsky emitted a heavy, aggressive breath against Builderman’s hand, his chest heaving. Builderman raised his eyebrows, immediately taken back by the sudden motion. He was caught in Shedletsky’s eyes, the expression on the smaller man’s face made him feel powerful. But, not in a controlling, governed kind of way – this power felt delicate, like a flower, and it overwhelmed him because he’d never felt that way before. He’d taken control over many things before, but it was never personal, it was always business. This was completely different. The man’s thoughts were quickly interrupted as he hissed roughly, jumping slightly as something sharp pierced his skin. Shedletsky had sunk his teeth into his hand, snarling and letting out a low, fussy growl. Builderman was about to rip his hand away, but the sudden punch in his gut made him freeze and push his hand against the man’s mouth harder. He gasped, surprised by his own actions, clearly embarrassed as he froze shortly after. Shedletsky’s nose wrinkled like an angry dog’s as his teeth continued to latch onto the older man’s skin, his eyes narrowed fiercely, his vision momentarily going blurry. He then let go, his teeth unlatching despite Builderman’s palm still being glued to his lips. Shedletsky made weary eye contact, his vision clearing up. It was then that he let out a small chirrup, caught off guard as Builderman’s fingers clasped harder against his lips and squished his cheeks. Builderman’s grip felt peculiarly possessive. Sure, he’d seen Builderman worked up before, he’d seen Builderman’s brawny gaze burning holes through any employee that dared to talk to him after a particularly spoiled meeting, but this? It was uncanny. Builder didn’t look mad, he looked determined. Like whatever goal he had was locked and set in place, and yet the man still looked nervous about it. Both of them were.

Shedletsky’s eyes softened, letting out a shaky breath against his co-worker’s hand. Builderman’s hand tensed at the feeling, his fingers shifting slightly against Shedletsky’s cheeks, his grip tightening and easing on and off again at the mercy of his nerve’s discalculated control. Shedletsky couldn’t explain why the pit in his stomach grew warm, or why it deepened, as if there was a bullet in his abdomen. They both froze again, looking as shook as frightened deer, awaiting the car of their hand and mouth. 

Builderman’s hand pulsed around the admin’s mouth again, his eyes growing wider. Something in his brain switched, telling him to experiment. Shedletsky felt weirdly intrigued, but his eye jerked in annoyance as Builderman’s hands twitched again. The feeling was unfamiliar and uncomfortable, but he was interested enough to let – whatever this is – happen. Not without a price though.

In a last ditch effort to get Builderman off of him, he opened his mouth, taking a moment to breathe hot air against his boss’s grey palm, then slowly trekked his tongue out of his mouth. It was hard trying to push the muscle forward when Builderman was gripping onto his face like it was a lifeline, but he managed to do it, eventually coasting a thin trail of saliva against Builderman’s mitt. When the pink slime of Shedletsky’s agape mouth met Builderman’s hand, the CEO immediately responded by loosening his hand in surprise, flinching and almost removing it completely, but he froze. He froze at the touch and sight of his best friend licking him. This was pushing both of their boundaries, going beyond what they deemed to be “safe”.

Builderman went rigid as Shedletsky pulled his tongue back into his mouth, only to push it out again with full force and thrust himself forwards into Builderman’s palm, forcing him to tighten his grip. Shedletsky’s eyes went half-lidded, his palms pushing against the desk to lean himself further into Builderman. His eyebrows furrowed grumpily, his gaze was challenging, silently demanding the man to do something back. Builderman felt his heart start to race, his chest filling with the nastiest of critters, warmth spreading throughout his shivering body like a wildfire. After a chilling second, he cleared his throat, then hesitantly pushed his hand gingerly against Shedletsky’s lips, his thumb rubbing against the man’s cheek up and down rhythmically, as if trying to soothe him. Builderman doesn't know where he picked this up from, but it came to him like second nature. Shedletsky started to feel timid, the movement of his tongue slowing down as Builderman encouraged his behaviour. The unexpected tenderness of Builderman’s attention made his head split and spin, his eyes widening only slightly, but his pupils didn’t grow in size. He was still weary, he was still suspicious, but at this point he was more suspicious of himself if anything. He felt different, like he was challenging the unknown. 

Shedletsky squinted his eyes sheepishly, suddenly feeling too embarrassed to look at him directly, his dignity slowly being ripped away from him the longer he kept his mouth glued to his boss’s hand. He hesitated, then swiped his tongue against Builderman again, receiving an audible, shaky exhale from Builder in return, the man’s shoulders shrugging blissfully, his eyes going half-lidded. Shedletsky’s stomach did a flip at the sight, suddenly he felt like a mouse trapped in a metal cage. He felt like prey, and never in his life has he ever felt that way. Builderman’s gaze was plush, but it pierced through Shedletsky like a needle, threading through his chest and making his breath hitch. Shedletsky tested the waters again, sliding his tongue up and down against Builderman’s hand, becoming conscious enough to focus on the taste and not just his blazing eyes. The taste was dry against his tongue, it was clear Builderman had washed his hands recently, the faint aroma of soap making Shedletsky sludge his tongue across the palm again. Shedletsky’s eyelids started to lower, his body shivered anxiously as he sunk into the feeling that he enjoyed the taste a lot more than he’d anticipated. Builderman’s eyes went wide again as Shedletsky began to pace his tongue sluggishly against Builderman’s skin as if it was the best thing he’d ever laid his tastebuds upon. Builderman was far more aware of his surroundings than Shedletsky was, the admin’s eyes closing as the CEO stared down at him in disbelief. How did an argument turn to this?

It clicked in Builderman’s hard-hatted head that this was awakening something in his fellow co-worker, and he wasn’t quite sure how to take that. His train of realization was interrupted when Shedletsky’s hands suddenly flung up and desperately clinged to Builderman’s wrist. Keeping his hand in place, Builderman let out an audible grunt of shock. His other hand rested nervously on the table, softening and subconsciously starting to scratch its nails at the delicate, black wood. Shedletsky lost himself, completely oblivious to how frenzied he looked. He was completely distracted with the task of savoring every inch and crevice of Builderman’s wrinkled palm, his saliva trailing the lines in Builderman’s grey palm like a breaking dam. The wet, cold feeling of Shedletsky’s spit caused Builderman to shiver gently. He swallowed a lump of spit that was mysteriously lodged in his throat, then suddenly it felt completely dry. Timidly, he gently praised the admin with the movement of his hand, rubbing his thumb against Shedletsky a few times, tilting his hand, then gently attempting to pry his hand off. Shedletsky fussed a little, his eyes twitched and opened only slightly, raising an angry eyebrow. He begrudgingly accepted shortly after, though, loosening his grip against Builderman’s wrist.

Builderman took his hand off of Shedletsky’s mouth, his hand hovering, a string of saliva breaking between the middle of his palm and Shedletsky’s bottom lip. His lips were shiny and coated with his own spit. Shedletsky licked his lips, his eyes softening as he slowly came to the realization of what he’d just done. He wasn’t sure what to do, he wasn’t sure what to say either. Should he even say anything? It came so naturally, it scared him and confused him – his own feelings were as distant to him as Builderman’s hand currently felt.

Shedletsky swallowed nervously, suddenly looking like a hurt puppy,

“Builder, I..”

He started hesitantly, speaking without a script, unsure of where to go next. Another moment of silence almost consumed them until Builderman puckered up, catching a ball of confidence and shushing Shedletsky gently. He pressed his thumb against Shedletsky’s lips,

“Shh. Don’t worry, hon’.” 

He teased, his voice gravelly and low, causing Shedletsky’s chest to heave and flinch. He tripped over his words, sputtering to come up with some sort of insult, some sort of comeback or excuse to get Builderman off of him, but he was instantaneously tranquilized by Builderman’s thumb flicking his bottom lip. His breath hitched, and he immediately shut his mouth – the urge to fight back feeling foreign. The way that Builderman made him shut his trap without even demanding it made Shedletsky paranoid that he had an admin panel open, that the CEO was using commands on him – but, no. His eyes darted around the room sheepishly, and he spotted not a single command panel. It scared him how easily his body melted into the attention, he had no motivation to fight back anymore. He was deep in enemy territory.

Builderman noticed the way that Shedletsky seemed to become aware, and it disappointed him. He wanted Shedletsky in a trance. He bit his lip at the thought, then, in an attempt to bring back the previous tension, Builderman pressed the tip of his thumb past Shedletsky’s lips, searching for an invitation. Shedletsky’s eyes locked back onto Builderman immediately, letting out a quiet, nerve-wrecked sound. Though, he soon conformed, his eyes fluttering bashfully, half-lidded again. Shedletsky opened his lips timidly, Builderman following and pushing his thumb against the tip of the man’s tongue. The admin’s breath hitched, his brain melting almost immediately after, his previous daze coming back to him and washing over him like a disease. His stomach turned sickly, warmth spreading throughout his body again, trailing through his chest to his thighs. He clasped his lips together against Builderman’s thumb, then gently started to suckle like a starving kitten. His tongue wrapped around the front of Builderman’s thumb, then gently swashed over the top, then back to the bottom again, savoring every patch of skin. Builderman let out a low grumble from the pit of his throat, his face flushing darkly. Now, he started to realize something was awakening in himself, and he especially wasn’t sure how to take that. 

Builderman started to rub his thumb in a small circle against Shedletsky’s tongue, painting the admin’s mouth with his dry skin. Shedletsky mewled, the heat rising in his chest. Builderman’s ears tingled at the sound, a rush going through his nervous system and making him feel more daring. He brung his other hand up, soon occupying it with the side of Shedletsky’s cheek. The admin immediately melted into the touch, as if he’d never been cared for before. Shedletsky sighed, then shivered, his breath hitching and his mouth opening slightly around Builderman’s thumb as the CEO’s hand glided down onto his neck, the touch was featherlight but it was threatening. Shedletsky’s reaction provoked Builderman to stick his thumb deeper into Shedletsky’s mouth, the admin’s eyes opening and staring back with hazy pupils, vulnerability flushed over his entire expression. Builderman’s eyes widened, a weak laugh filtering through his breath, the exasperated look on Shedletsky’s face taking him by surprise. His hand tightened around Shedletsky’s neck, almost squeezing him, causing Shedletsky’s eyes to squint again. Shedletsky was about to pull away and protest when Builderman suddenly jabbed his thumb into Shedletsky’s mouth, causing the man to gag faintly. His stomach twisted, embarrassed by his inability to control his throat, but also excited by the new feeling. He quickly pulled back, grabbing Builderman’s wrist and pulling his hand away, another string of saliva quickly breaking between them. Shedletsky looked ashamed and appalled. Builderman found this.. really funny. A genuine smile wiped over his lips, warmth building in his chest at the threat of laughter.

“D-Dude.” Shedletsky choked.

Builderman let out a rough giggle, but Shedletsky didn’t look amused. 

“Hey, that’s not funny!”

Shedletsky exclaimed, feigning his confidence. Builderman shrugged his shoulders, recovering from the laugh as he spoke.

“That was pretty funny.”

“No..”

“Yes.. I’ve never seen ya so embarrassed before.”

Builderman let out a louder, harsher laugh, and it caused Shedletsky to put on an expression of moody distain. He looked pissed off. He pushed Builderman’s saliva covered hand away, but the one on his neck still remained loosely tied around his skin. Builderman took the sight in for a moment before another burst of butterflies caused him to start laughing again, earning a sharp glare from the red-faced admin.

The more that Builderman stood there laughing, his eyes closed, Shedletsky couldn’t help but want to shut him up for good. He looked down, spotting the desk between them. The space between them made him even more pissed, but it gave him an idea.

As Builderman continued to chuckle, laughing at Shedletsky’s expense, Shedletsky slowly started to lean over the desk.

The admin paused. Builderman still didn’t notice him getting closer. Shedletsky took a moment to think this through, but decided that they’d already done enough damage.

…So, why not do some more?

Builderman’s laughing was interrupted when a pair of eager lips met his own, his eyes snapping open, stuttering over his chuckle that soon died out completely. Shedletsky kissed the man fiercely, smushing their faces together as if they were two, plastic Barbie dolls. Builderman felt himself freeze immediately, he was unsure of what to do with himself, but it changed when Shedletsky suddenly pulled away in a quick, harsh motion. It caused Builderman’s heart to stop, the space between them was sickening. He hated it. He filled the void, the hand on Shedletsky’s neck finally coming to use as he gripped the back of it; his thick, grey thumb wrapping around to the front, feeling his pulse, then pushing Shedletsky back into him, their lips crashing together. Shedletsky melted and conformed to the position change, mumbling something inaudible into Builderman’s mouth. It wasn’t long after that Shedletsky was met with a tongue poking at the entrance of his lips, in which he accepted, opening up and tying his tongue around Builderman’s almost immediately, as if they’d already done it a million times over. Builderman grunted, a shiver running up his sensitive spine as his other hand came around and cradled the back of Shedletsky’s head. 

Their tongues fought fiercely, yet there was no battle. There was only the warmth of their breath, the way that Shedletsky’s hands travelled Builderman’s chest and hips, the shared need for stress relief and the faint sound of rain still pattering against the window. They, both, have never felt this open and exposed in their entire lives. They’ve both had their fair share of crushes, sure, but it wasn’t like it was ever really pursued. Shedletsky was a flirt, hopping between fans and strangers and making small suggestive quips just to get a quick rise, but it never got anywhere, and he never pushed it further than that – it just wasn’t worth his time. Builderman was always a recluse, sticking to his safe space in the office even when he was interested in somebody, because work was always more important, and he was never sure how to commit – and, really, he didn’t believe he could.

The tension and the ferocity between them glued their lips together as if they were already married, as if both of them were always love-sick, hopeless romantics who did nothing but fantasize over what it would be like to touch, taste, smell - to love somebody. It was never that way, until now. They never paid mind to love, they always had other goals in mind like work, or playing, or the community - but that’s exactly the thing. They both had that, and they both shared that. Together, they could love but they could still work, they could still play and they could still take care of their people.

It was laughable how neither of them realized how hard they yearned for each other all this time, how neither of them ever wanted to admit it was more than just a silly, run-of-the-mill idea, formed from getting a little too excited over the idea of their close friendship. 

But, in this moment, as their lips smooshed together passionately, hungrily, searching for relief - It came back to them. The small gestures they returned to each other over the years; 

the gentle rubs against each other’s shoulders,

the day-long conversations that they’d continue until they fell asleep,

the dozens of inside jokes that left them laughing until their guts ached,

the hugs that lingered a little too long,

the immediate darkness that consumed their eyes when leaving to complete something else,

the dullness they felt when talking to anybody else.

It all came back, hitting them both right in the heart, making them dizzy, making them desperate.

 Like an assignment that was put off for far too long, the genuine, true, burning love buried deep between them came back and bit them in the foot.

Builderman’s death grip tightened around Shedletsky’s curly, brown hair, forcing him to stay in place, as if Builderman was afraid this was a dream he was about to awake from. It was too good to be real. Shedletsky let out a harsh moan as Builderman’s hands both instinctively tightened, causing both of their stomachs to cave in nervously. Shedletsky arched his back, the edge of the desk digging harshly into his stomach like a blade. It pained him, physically and mentally, the amount of space put between him. It made him livid. Shedletsky tugged backwards, trying to get Builderman to lay off for a moment. The hard-hatted man took the hint and loosened his grip, but his hands still remained in their spots, as if he had claimed those parts of Shedletsky’s body. As they slowly broke apart, saliva connecting their lips, they both took a moment to catch their breath. Their heart rates quickened, beating out of their chest impossibly fast. Their eyes both unblurred; regaining their vision, they made eye contact again. It was soft, it was nothing like when they were arguing earlier. The sharpness in both of them was dulled from a butcher’s cleaver to a toddler’s plastic knife. 

Shedletsky’s breath hitched, and he spoke breathily, still regaining himself.

“Hold on.”

He whispered, accidentally, breathing in heavily. He let go of Builderman, the CEO’s hands sliding off of him in return, leaving Builderman feeling kind of empty. It didn’t take much to uplift his spirits again, though; his stomach started to flip again as he heard the click of Shedletsky’s bare, yellow heels against the marble floor, making a straight beeline toward his side of the desk. Builderman’s eyes stared back timidly as Shedletsky came closer, he felt intimidated – but they were even now, Shedletsky felt just as nervous. Shedletsky’s fawnish footsteps came to a halt as he stopped in front of Builderman. They both stared at each other with anticipation, even though Shedletsky was the one that initiated the position change, there was a small part of him that was hoping Builderman would suddenly take the lead, like some desperate love interest in a cheesy romcom movie. But, no - instead, the air turned awkward and stiff, the both of them breaking a sweat. Shedletsky could swear he wasn’t this anxious even just a few moments ago, what happened to the ferocity he carried when he suddenly smooshed his face against Builderman’s? He was afraid to admit he couldn’t answer that question.

The space that was filled between them made a stark contrast. Shedletsky sighed a little as Builderman awkwardly blinked, his eyes watching Shedletsky timidly. The admin nervously swallowed, taking another step forward and placing his shaky, yellow hands onto Builderman’s chest. He pressed the front of his foot deep into the hard marble floor as he leaned forward, locking his lips with Builderman’s yet again. It was softer, it was more expected this time, it was tender. Builderman reciprocated and moved his large hands over the middle of Shedletsky’s back, all the way up to his shoulders then slowly brought his fingertips down the man’s spine, causing Shedletsky to arch his back deliciously, their chests rubbing together. Builderman tilted his head into the kiss as Shedletsky let out a soft hum. They both looked like a hot mess, the stress from work still lingering over them like fish on a hook. The bags under the CEO’s eyes, the admin’s ruffled, unkept hair, the wrinkles in their clothes disorganized like messy bedsheets. The soft click of their lips was wet, their tongues slipping into each other’s mouths. Builderman leaned forward, grunting and emitting a needy whimper out of Shedletsky as he swiped his tongue further toward the back of the admin’s throat, washing his saliva over Shedletsky’s teeth. Shedletsky’s hands clenched against their spot on Builderman’s chest before he pulled his hands up and wrapped his arms around Builderman’s neck, making the kiss impossibly deep and feeding into the passion that consumed him the longer he sat glued to the man before him. The rain outside the building was sprinkling, it barely made any noise against the HQ’s window as old droplets raced and rolled down the glass, making the room cool. Despite the office seemingly feeling frozen, neither of them had paid any attention to it – the fire burning between them was fuzzy, keeping both of them warm as long as they were in the other’s grasp.

Builderman ran his thick fingers over Shedletsky’s spine steadily, eventually reaching the middle part of his back. His hands shifted to the admin’s sides soon after and gripped the man’s hips, his movements filled with desire. His brain fogged as Shedletsky returned the gesture and put his foot to the side, spinning them slightly so that Shedletsky’s back was facing the desk. They were both growing more and more desperate by the second, their need to get closer, and closer, and closer felt overwhelming, and they’d do anything just to keep this moment lasting a little longer. It was risky, doing this in the middle of Builderman’s office, the door unlocked and lingering for intruding visitors, but they were too hypnotized in each other’s movements to care, it felt like too much effort to rip themselves away from something so precious and timeless. Shedletsky tugged away from Builderman’s lips gently, gazing at the man with foggy, love-ridden eyes. Builderman returned the look, their hot breath pulsing out their throats and colliding seamlessly, creating a pocket of heat between them. Shedletsky let out a low, daring giggle as his arms dropped from around Builderman’s neck. He leaned backward, the wood thumping as his spine rocked against the table’s black surface, his arms sprawled beside his head submittingly, offering himself to Builderman openly like a gift, fluttering his eyelashes like a Disney princess. Builderman was captivated, staring down in awe. Builderman had never ever seen Shedletsky give himself up to something so quickly and shamelessly, and the sickening pit in his stomach only grew larger knowing that it was all because of his own doings. 

Builderman delicately put his hands over Shedletsky’s chest and then rode his fingers downwards over the top of Shedletsky’s stomach, eliciting a purr from the man below. Builderman felt his heart roll and crunch in his chest painfully as he ran his hands over Shedletsky’s rough, delicate body, the blissful expression on the admin’s face adding to his struggle. Shedletsky, in a fit of greed for more attention, kicked his heel up and pressed his ankle roughly against Builderman’s lower waist, launching the man forwards, directly into him between his legs. Shedletsky then raised one of his hands and grabbed the collar of Builderman’s worn, dark grey hoodie and forced him in closer, seeking out a kiss. Builderman caught wind of this quickly, leaning in and closing his eyes as he locked his lips with Shedletsky’s yet again. It was a nice pattern, the feeling wasn’t new anymore but it certainly wasn't old, either. It was addicting. Shedletsky suddenly felt self aware as not only Builderman’s tongue tied with his own, but the CEO’s hands trailed closer to the rim of his shirt. As Builderman’s grey fingers reached the edge of the man’s top, he snaked his hand under, touching Shedletsky’s bare stomach. Shedletsky hissed, his face flushing and his heart pounding, making his vision blurry as he leaned back in surprise, breaking the kiss. Builderman only stared back with half-lidded eyes as he took a moment to pause and observe Shedletsky’s expression before he leaned forward again. But, this time, his lips didn’t meet Shedletsky’s.

The admin let out a whimper as Builderman’s spit-ridden lips glided over his neck, a soft pop emitting from the sloppy kiss planted on his sensitive, yellow skin. Shedletsky’s eyes shot wide open, then closed again when Builderman planted another kiss. He flinched with each peck, the tingle that ran through his skin was unfamiliar, it made him uncomfortable in a way that kept him itching for more. Shedletsky glided his hands over Builderman’s broad shoulders, rubbing his thumbs firmly against his jacket, then slowly sliding them up to the man’s head, pulling Builderman’s mouth closer to his neck. A tender warmth bubbled up in his stomach like a cozy bath, a hazy mewl coming from the back of his throat. Builderman trailed his lips down to the pulse of Shedletsky’s neck, then gently nibbled at his skin. Shedletsky vocalized his approval by letting out a contented sigh, rolling his head to the side lazily, as if he had zero will-power left. This was a completely new side of him, he was completely submitting himself, and before this he had always been the type to initiate, to take control, to defend himself. But, here, at this sensitive, timeless moment - he was defenseless. Both of their guards were completely let down, with Builderman savoring Shedletsky’s taste and Shedletsky giving him every reason to keep going, nothing could possibly stop them. Nothing could possibly pause this moment. Not even as Builderman’s hand slid down from Shedletsky’s chest and back over his lower stomach, not even as Shedletsky subconsciously wrapped his legs around Builderman’s waist, not even as Shedletsky whispered and begged for friction, and they especially didn’t stop even as a loud, rhythmic knock was sound at the office door.

..wait, what?

Builderman and Shedletsky both flinched like wary animals, their heads immediately snapping like deer ears towards the foggy, glass window at the sudden noise that interrupted their important.. meeting. Yeah, that’s all this was.

As the doorknob handle suddenly twisted, they rushed out of their current position, their muscles almost getting pulled with how fast they switched sides.

“Hey, Build-...”

Brighteyes spoke as she closed the door behind her, abruptly cutting herself off as she turned and spotted the both of them frozen, as if they’d seen a ghost. Her eyes widened as she examined them, the hair on Shedletsky’s head ruffled and messy, Builderman’s jacket lopsided and exposing one of his shoulders, the way that both their faces were actively boiling like some sort of embarrassment-based soup.

She narrowed her eyes with the fullest of judgement, unsure of how to take this in. To say the least, this was probably the last thing she would’ve expected walking into Builderman’s office at 1 in the morning. She has never, not ever seen them so shaken up before. It didn’t help that Builderman was behind the desk with Shedletsky of all places – normally that spot was strictly reserved for the CEO and the CEO only, it was unprofessional, otherwise. At least, that’s what Builderman always seemed to claim, until now apparently…

It made her wonder how long this had been going on, if he’d been doing this every damn day and she had no idea of it.

Shedletsky, instead of keeping his mouth shut, panicked and started speaking without thinking first.

“It’s not what it- OOF-” Builderman smacked him in the stomach, giving him a furrowed brow and a nervous glare before darting his eyes back to Brighteyes.

“Did ya need somethin’?”

Builderman’s voice shook slightly, his words a little gruff from his dry throat. Brighteyes expression sharpened even further, but she decided to keep her more judgemental thoughts to herself. For now.

It took a moment for her to regain herself after realizing how absolutely batshit crazy it was to walk into this, but she cleared her throat, speaking her business despite the sticky situation. Speaking of that, she really didn’t want to know if it was actually sticky in here.

“Uh. Someone told me you needed this.. paper.”

She pulled out from seemingly nowhere; a piece of printer paper with inked words on it, filled to the brim with writing about company gibberish that nobody actually cared about. Especially now.

She walked towards their desk timidly, the footsteps and the clank of her shoes against the ground were deafening to everyone’s ears, the sheer embarrassment and shock silently running through everyone’s heads like a parasite. When she reached the desk, she looked down, avoiding eye contact and putting the paper against the desk below. When she slowly looked up, she got a better look at how tired and worn they looked, and she could swear she saw a glimpse of light shining off of a suspiciously wet looking patch of Shedletsky’s neck. They both looked like absolute dumpster fires. She gave an uncomfortable smile, patting the paper with one hand as if the paper had to be comforted from these horrors.

“Here. Goodluck with.. this.”

She spoke with disdain, acting like she was talking about the paperwork when, really, she was talking about them. 

They got hooked onto it immediately, both their faces dropping in embarrassment as she slowly walked back towards the office door with an awkward, incredibly forced smile. She cleared her throat and grabbed the doorknob again,

“I’ll tell you in advance the next time I visit, okay?”

She spoke reassuringly, as if she was speaking to a scared child, and it only managed to make the both of them feel worse. As she waltzed out the door with anxious pace and closed the door behind her, Builderman and Shedletsky stood completely stiff for what felt like an eternity. Eventually, they both slowly turned over to each other, giving each other a weary glance over. As they both took in the others' appearance, they both shared the same thought; damn, they really did look like shit. 

Shedletsky cleared his throat, then looked straight ahead of him nervously, breaking the tense eye contact. Builderman followed suit, shrugging and hooking his jacket back over his shoulder again.

“So, like..”

He started awkwardly.

“What are we?”

Builderman perked up, his breath hitching in thought. That’s a fair question, a really good one at that. He wasn’t sure.

“What do you think?”

Builderman responded, his voice becoming smooth again, his throat slowly moisturizing itself. Shedletsky felt his shoulders drop down a little, the conversation putting him at a little more ease.

“I don’t know.”

Shedletsky spoke a little too harshly than he intended to, but quickly recovered when he realized his mistake.

“That’s why I was asking you, dummy.”

His voice became a little more playful, evoking a soft, happy sigh out of Builderman, a sheepish smile wiping over his lips, the previous awkwardness washing away like it always did between them. It felt natural, like it was meant to be. Like they were meant to be.

“Ya think I’ve got a clue, either?”

Builderman scoffed, turning his head and giving soft eye contact. Shedletsky returned it, letting out a low chuckle before rolling his eyes and regaining his posture, his back stiffening a bit as his confidence went up.

“Giiirll…”

Shedletsky spoke sassily, evoking a hearty laugh out of Builderman that made his chest flip. They were back to normal, the original familiarity brought back to life between them, they didn’t feel distant anymore. They felt like they always did, the same. Well.. mostly. Maybe with a few bonuses. They both started to giggle, affectionate smiles overtaking their expressions and melting any coldness that they once had. They never thought arguing would’ve gotten them here.

After a few minutes of comfortable laughter and silence, Shedletsky cleared his throat again, daring to speak his mind.

“So, uh. You wanna continue that?”

He spoke, almost too casually, referring to what they had been doing before they were so rudely interrupted, as if they’d ever done this before today

Builderman’s eyes widened, pleasantly surprised. He thought about it for a short, split moment, humming before he shrugged and took a step forward.

“That’d be nice.”