I believe in you!

Semi-selective Underswap!Sans ask/RP blog // Possible NSFW content, will be tagged // Muse goes by Sans or Blue // On Hiatus //

[honeyhogger]

Then There Were Two

[honeyhogger]

Pap froze momentarily as Sans leaned in and hugged him. In the bath. While they were both naked. After a moment though he relaxed again, this was his brother, it was just Sans, it was fine. The words relaxed him further and he hugged Sans back gently, tucking his face against his shoulder. “…thanks sans. youre not selfish, youre the farthest thing from it.”

He met Sans’ gaze as he pulled back, nodding solemnly. “yeah, we’ve definitely both changed quite a bit. it…well im scared that i…dont know you as well as i thought i did.” He cast his gaze down and sighed. “ive been too preoccupied with myself that i didnt even notice the changes in you. and now im just not sure how much youve been faking this whole time.” He looked back up and a faint orange blush covered his cheeks as he realized how close they were. 

“you stay true to yourself no matter who you are.” He smiled softly. “and you just happen to be the coolest dude around.”

[dopplerfactorblues]

He didn’t understand how Papyrus could say he wasn’t selfish - it felt selfish, to prioritise someone over everyone else. Yet he wasn’t able to really regret feeling that way, not when it came to Papyrus. Having his brother hug him back helped him feel more settled, though his gaze lingered for a few seconds too long on the other’s blush, unsure why it caught his attention so much. 

A moment later he was far more focused on what Papyrus was saying, shaking his head quickly. “No- I haven’t been faking a lot around you, I promise.” He winced, his gaze dropping. “I...I mean...before I realised you knew, I’d try my best not to...act differently, I guess. I didn’t want to worry you. And I still don’t want to worry you, but I...I also really want to be honest with you. I don’t want to pretend to be someone else around you, too.”

Sans smiled weakly. “I guess I just hope that you still find this ‘me’ cool.” He wasn’t sure if Papyrus had ever realised how much he relied on his brother’s opinion of him to boost his self-confidence. How every time he doubted himself it was Papyrus’ assurances and words that made him feel better. That was one thing that hadn’t changed despite the resets. 

[honeyhogger]

Then There Were Two

[honeyhogger]

So Sans had let himself go? He was barely holding on and he didn’t even notice? That made him feel even worse. But he didn’t bring it up, knowing it wouldn’t help the situation at all. “but you did hold it together, even if it was just barely. you’re so strong bro, i wish i could be as cool as you.” 

His sockets widened slightly and his breath caught in his throat. He was the reason Sans got through the day a lot of the time? His sad smile got a little more genuine, giving the hand on his knee a little squeeze. “well, thinking about you is what gets me through literally every day, sans.” 

He couldn’t help just chuckle at the last part, shaking his head slightly. “nah, now thats a bit of a stretch even for you bro. im not the best older brother. you’re definitely the most magnificent and coolest younger brother, though.” He winked and he let a little more of the tension seep from his bones. His self loathing was still incredibly strong, but being there with Sans in the warm, relaxing water allowed him to be selfish for a few moments and push his fears and worries to the side. 

[honeyhogger]

Pap sighed and looked down into the water, swirling a few of the bubbles around aimlessly. “they seem used to slight script variations, so they probably thought your different lines were a result of something minute they did differently some timelines. just make sure you don’t ever mention something you shouldn’t know about or especially about the resets themselves.”

He looked up and to the side, still fiddling with the bubbles as he thought. “if they knew you remembered they’d have a great time torturing you like they’ve done to me, and then they’ll use us against each other just to cause even more pain. and i can’t…i can’t let that happen to you.”

As Sans gave him that weak smile he frowned, shaking his head. “you’re not pathetic. ive ditched out on my job of being their final boss more than once because i couldn’t deal with it. i left toriel unguarded and unprotected to be slaughtered without even trying to stop them out of selfishness. that’s pathetic. but you still always try, you go out there and face them and stay true to yourself.” He shook his head, smiling softly, fondly. “definitely one of the coolest things ive ever heard of.”

[dopplerfactorblues]

He nodded slightly. He really didn’t want to see what they’d do to try to use him and Papyrus against each other. As it was, he’d...seen some of what the human was capable of; felt it in nightmares that were never vague enough, that felt too solid to be anything except fractured memories of the resets before he’d become aware of them. Even as he considered this, he knew he could never tell Papyrus about those memories. Sometimes he...wondered if that repetitive pain had acted as a trigger for him becoming aware. 

He was grateful that Pap tried to cheer him up, ducking his head a little at being called cool so sincerely. It said a lot about his brother that even in this kind of situation, he was still trying to make Sans happy. No matter what Papyrus said, he knew that he had the best brother he could ever hope for. 

Uncaring of the state they were both in, he shifted onto his knees and gave into the urge to hug Papyrus. “It’s not selfish or pathetic to avoid something that hurts you. I’d rather you do that than ever have to see them again, or...or be killed by them.” It was hard to imagine someone as strong as the queen being killed, and he’d never want that to happen...but he valued his brother far more. “I guess that makes me the selfish one.”

Sans shook his head slightly, cheek brushing against Papyrus’ as he leaned back enough to meet his gaze. “I don’t know about staying true to myself. I-...We’ve both changed, I think.” He’d lost a lot of the naivety and optimism that he used to have, and his usual cheer and energy just...didn’t come as easy any more. He wasn’t the same person he was before he became aware of the resets, and his relationship with Papyrus had changed a lot, too. He just really hoped it would never get to a point where they were so distant that they couldn’t rely on each other anymore. 

[honeyhogger]

Then There Were Two

[honeyhogger]

So Sans had let himself go? He was barely holding on and he didn’t even notice? That made him feel even worse. But he didn’t bring it up, knowing it wouldn’t help the situation at all. “but you did hold it together, even if it was just barely. you’re so strong bro, i wish i could be as cool as you.” 

His sockets widened slightly and his breath caught in his throat. He was the reason Sans got through the day a lot of the time? His sad smile got a little more genuine, giving the hand on his knee a little squeeze. “well, thinking about you is what gets me through literally every day, sans.” 

He couldn’t help just chuckle at the last part, shaking his head slightly. “nah, now thats a bit of a stretch even for you bro. im not the best older brother. you’re definitely the most magnificent and coolest younger brother, though.” He winked and he let a little more of the tension seep from his bones. His self loathing was still incredibly strong, but being there with Sans in the warm, relaxing water allowed him to be selfish for a few moments and push his fears and worries to the side. 

[dopplerfactorblues]

Sans was relieved to see the more genuine smile and the gradual loss of tension. So often lately he felt like he never said the right thing, finding himself at a loss for words on how he could possibly make things better for Papyrus…So even if he couldn’t convince his brother of everything he’d said, at least he’d helped him to smile. 

He turned his hand over and threaded his fingers with Papyrus’, his own smile widening as a faint blush tinted his cheeks. Did…he really help Papyrus get through each day? It never felt like he was doing enough, and he was…honestly really scared that a distance would grow between them, that Papyrus wouldn’t feel able to tell him things anymore. 

He shook his head. “Isn’t that up to me to decide? If you get to think I’m cool, then it’s only fair for me to decide whether you are, too.” He squeezed Papyrus’ hand, hoping that his words would get through to him. Even if Papyrus didn’t believe it himself, maybe…maybe it would help to know that Sans believed it. “And you are. You’re the coolest, and best, and…” He paused, trying to decide how to articulate his thoughts. “…I’d never wish for you to be going through this and know about the resets…But…I’m really grateful that you’re here.” He hoped his meaning came across right.

[honeyhogger]

As Sans thread their fingers together he flushed, trying to play it off smoothly with a deep chuckle and by responding. “you don’t get to decide the facts bro. and the facts are yer the coolest and bestest brother there is. sorry, i don’t make the rules, just how it is.” 

It was sweet that his bro thought he was cool and good, but Pap knew he was far from either of those. There was still a lot of things he hadn’t told Sans about, and if it were up to him he would keep it that way. Not to mention that Sans had never actually seen him fight the kid and what he did to them… No, don’t think about them, not right now. Don’t let them ruin this one nice moment in this hellish timeline. He wouldn’t give them the satisfaction. 

“as much as i wish you werent here so you didnt have to suffer and go through this…im glad youre here too.” It was selfish for him to be glad that Sans was suffering with him, but he couldn’t help himself from being grateful for his presence. He reached over the side of the tub and grabbed a loofah, tossing it at Sans’ head teasingly. “here. might as well get clean while youre in here. and before the water gets cold.” 

[dopplerfactorblues]

He sent Papyrus a mock pout when he threw the loofah at him, even as his amusement showed in his expression. “Did you really have to throw it at me?” Still, he dunked it in the water and started to clean himself up with it, using just the one hand since he was reluctant to let go of Papyrus’. Usually he just had a quick shower whenever he needed one, so sitting sedately in a bubble bath was different, but nice. 

He was relieved that Papyrus seemed to have understood his meaning when he expressed how grateful he was to have him here, and even returned it. He really did hope that his presence helped his brother in some way…That it was better than going through this alone. 

[honeyhogger]

With a wink and a chuckle Pap have Sans a knowing look. “you know i had to. we’re the fun in just handing it to you? plus i gotta do something to keep you on your toes. consider it part of your training.”

A thought struck him then, did Sans even still want to be a member of the royal guard? How much of it was true and how much was an act for his sake? He suddenly didn’t feel like he knew his brother as well as he thought. “…hey sans? it’s nice to have the relief of not having to pretend that we don’t know about the resets around each other, but you can’t let the kid figure that out. they already know i remember the timelines, and it’s one of the reasons they focus on me so much. if they found out you remembered too…” He let the sentence hang in the air unfinished.

He realized they were still holding hands and he gave Sans one more squeeze before letting go, moving to rub some of the water and soap over his head and clean himself minimally. “you have to pretend that you don’t know what’s going to happen. when you’re just home with me it’s fine but everywhere else you’ve gotta keep pretending.” He gave Sans an apologetic look. “im sorry.”

[dopplerfactorblues]

It was good to see his brother joking around a bit. During this timeline there hadn’t been much opportunity for that...Honestly he’d just been doing his best not to show how hard it was for him to keep going. It’d been the worst right after he’d realised that they were the only two left, and he’d...he’d found the remains of everyone he knew. By now the horror and grief had numbed into a exhausting desperation for the next reset.

He listened to Pap, a little disappointed when he let go of his hand but hopefully that didn’t show in his expression. He sighed, dropping the loofah and watching it float in the bath water. “...I thought that they had almost figured it out, a couple of times. When I was confronting them I...wasn’t exactly in my right mind a good few times...” He remembered how his desperation had hit its peak when it’d finally settled in what had happened, his vague recollections solidifying into a horrible truth. “I tried new ways of talking to them, convincing them...I didn’t follow the same script because it didn’t work.” 

He gave a small, empty smile. “But I guess they didn’t think I was pathetic enough to willingly go to my death over and over again. To not even try to fight them for real...To think that they could ever change.”

[honeyhogger]

Then There Were Two

[honeyhogger]

So Sans had let himself go? He was barely holding on and he didn’t even notice? That made him feel even worse. But he didn’t bring it up, knowing it wouldn’t help the situation at all. “but you did hold it together, even if it was just barely. you’re so strong bro, i wish i could be as cool as you.” 

His sockets widened slightly and his breath caught in his throat. He was the reason Sans got through the day a lot of the time? His sad smile got a little more genuine, giving the hand on his knee a little squeeze. “well, thinking about you is what gets me through literally every day, sans.” 

He couldn’t help just chuckle at the last part, shaking his head slightly. “nah, now thats a bit of a stretch even for you bro. im not the best older brother. you’re definitely the most magnificent and coolest younger brother, though.” He winked and he let a little more of the tension seep from his bones. His self loathing was still incredibly strong, but being there with Sans in the warm, relaxing water allowed him to be selfish for a few moments and push his fears and worries to the side. 

[dopplerfactorblues]

Sans was relieved to see the more genuine smile and the gradual loss of tension. So often lately he felt like he never said the right thing, finding himself at a loss for words on how he could possibly make things better for Papyrus…So even if he couldn’t convince his brother of everything he’d said, at least he’d helped him to smile. 

He turned his hand over and threaded his fingers with Papyrus’, his own smile widening as a faint blush tinted his cheeks. Did…he really help Papyrus get through each day? It never felt like he was doing enough, and he was…honestly really scared that a distance would grow between them, that Papyrus wouldn’t feel able to tell him things anymore. 

He shook his head. “Isn’t that up to me to decide? If you get to think I’m cool, then it’s only fair for me to decide whether you are, too.” He squeezed Papyrus’ hand, hoping that his words would get through to him. Even if Papyrus didn’t believe it himself, maybe…maybe it would help to know that Sans believed it. “And you are. You’re the coolest, and best, and…” He paused, trying to decide how to articulate his thoughts. “…I’d never wish for you to be going through this and know about the resets…But…I’m really grateful that you’re here.” He hoped his meaning came across right.

[honeyhogger]

As Sans thread their fingers together he flushed, trying to play it off smoothly with a deep chuckle and by responding. “you don’t get to decide the facts bro. and the facts are yer the coolest and bestest brother there is. sorry, i don’t make the rules, just how it is.” 

It was sweet that his bro thought he was cool and good, but Pap knew he was far from either of those. There was still a lot of things he hadn’t told Sans about, and if it were up to him he would keep it that way. Not to mention that Sans had never actually seen him fight the kid and what he did to them… No, don’t think about them, not right now. Don’t let them ruin this one nice moment in this hellish timeline. He wouldn’t give them the satisfaction. 

“as much as i wish you werent here so you didnt have to suffer and go through this…im glad youre here too.” It was selfish for him to be glad that Sans was suffering with him, but he couldn’t help himself from being grateful for his presence. He reached over the side of the tub and grabbed a loofah, tossing it at Sans’ head teasingly. “here. might as well get clean while youre in here. and before the water gets cold.” 

[dopplerfactorblues]

He sent Papyrus a mock pout when he threw the loofah at him, even as his amusement showed in his expression. “Did you really have to throw it at me?” Still, he dunked it in the water and started to clean himself up with it, using just the one hand since he was reluctant to let go of Papyrus’. Usually he just had a quick shower whenever he needed one, so sitting sedately in a bubble bath was different, but nice. 

He was relieved that Papyrus seemed to have understood his meaning when he expressed how grateful he was to have him here, and even returned it. He really did hope that his presence helped his brother in some way...That it was better than going through this alone. 

[honeyhogger]

Then There Were Two

[honeyhogger]

So Sans had let himself go? He was barely holding on and he didn’t even notice? That made him feel even worse. But he didn’t bring it up, knowing it wouldn’t help the situation at all. “but you did hold it together, even if it was just barely. you’re so strong bro, i wish i could be as cool as you.” 

His sockets widened slightly and his breath caught in his throat. He was the reason Sans got through the day a lot of the time? His sad smile got a little more genuine, giving the hand on his knee a little squeeze. “well, thinking about you is what gets me through literally every day, sans.” 

He couldn’t help just chuckle at the last part, shaking his head slightly. “nah, now thats a bit of a stretch even for you bro. im not the best older brother. you’re definitely the most magnificent and coolest younger brother, though.” He winked and he let a little more of the tension seep from his bones. His self loathing was still incredibly strong, but being there with Sans in the warm, relaxing water allowed him to be selfish for a few moments and push his fears and worries to the side. 

[dopplerfactorblues]

Sans was relieved to see the more genuine smile and the gradual loss of tension. So often lately he felt like he never said the right thing, finding himself at a loss for words on how he could possibly make things better for Papyrus...So even if he couldn’t convince his brother of everything he’d said, at least he’d helped him to smile. 

He turned his hand over and threaded his fingers with Papyrus’, his own smile widening as a faint blush tinted his cheeks. Did...he really help Papyrus get through each day? It never felt like he was doing enough, and he was...honestly really scared that a distance would grow between them, that Papyrus wouldn’t feel able to tell him things anymore. 

He shook his head. “Isn’t that up to me to decide? If you get to think I’m cool, then it’s only fair for me to decide whether you are, too.” He squeezed Papyrus’ hand, hoping that his words would get through to him. Even if Papyrus didn’t believe it himself, maybe...maybe it would help to know that Sans believed it. “And you are. You’re the coolest, and best, and...” He paused, trying to decide how to articulate his thoughts. “...I’d never wish for you to be going through this and know about the resets...But...I’m really grateful that you’re here.” He hoped his meaning came across right.

[honeyhogger]

Then There Were Two

[dopplerfactorblues]

honeyhogger:

As he felt Sans brush against his leg he stretched out further, his long legs going on either side of Sans so he could fit properly without having his knees against his chest. This really did feel nice, and he found himself relaxing into the warm water and the comfort of knowing Sans was safe here with him.

As the other spoke he opened his eyes, smiling softly back at his brother. “yeah, it has been a while. can’t even remember the last time i had one of these.” He hummed softly, stretching his bare arms up over his head until his back popped satisfyingly.

“course sans. its the least i can do after everything you’ve done for me.” He looked to the side again, sighing. “you’re always doing stuff like this to try and cheer me up and get me moving, it’s about time i started repaying that debt.” Though he was sure he’d never repay it, not even close.

Sans blinked as the other’s legs stretched out to either side of him, before understanding that the position would be much more comfortable for his brother. He tended to be envious of how much taller Papyrus was than him, but in times like this Sans’ height was actually a convenience. 

It was really nice to see Papyrus relaxing, especially since he’d noticed how tense he’d been recently - the both of them were, really. It was hard not to be…But he could feel how the tension and stress had made it so hard to keep his composure or feel happy at all. This moment felt like he could finally breathe a bit easier.

As Papyrus spoke he found himself frowning a little. He leaned forwards and put a hand on Papyrus’ knee to make sure he had his attention, his expression resolute. “There’s no debt to repay. I want to do all that stuff for you, because I want you to be happy, even with…with everything that’s going on. And…nothing I could do would ever equal how much you just being here means to me.” 

[honeyhogger]

The hand on his knee made him glance back at Sans to see that determined expression on his face as he spoke. His smile turned sad and he pat the hand still resting on his knee. “that doesn’t seem very fair to me. you do all this work and try so hard to be there for me and all i do is exist? not exactly quality older brother material.”

He sighed, some bubbles floating up and over the side of the tub as he did. “before you argue just…look at it from my perspective, sans. you’ve seen how ive changed over the resets. i let myself go because what did it matter? why should i put in the effort when the end result is always the same? i just let myself go, not thinking about how it could worry or affect you because you wouldn’t remember anyway, right? but you…you did remember, and you didn’t let yourself go like i did. instead you were always trying to think about me and get me to feel better even while i was being a self centered asshole-“ He stopped himself and took a deep breath, trying not to let the self hatred get ahold of him. “-even while i was only thinking about myself you always tried to be there for me, even if you thought i didn’t remember. i never did that for you and it’s…unforgivable, really.”

He shook his head, sinking down a little farther and mumbling to himself. “im a shit older brother, heh.”

[dopplerfactorblues]

He tried to do as Papyrus asked and look at it from his perspective, but he immediately found himself disagreeing. Still, he waited for Papyrus to finish before he spoke himself. 

“You think I didn’t let myself go?” His voice was soft; he didn’t want to argue with Papyrus, not on this, but he needed him to understand. “Pap...I’ve barely been holding it together. I’ve just...hidden the worst of it whenever I could. But for me, one of the things that helps me has been going about my usual routine, trying to act like nothing has changed...and doing whatever I can for you. Thinking about you is the only thing that gets me through a lot of days...” 

He smiled faintly. “I could never blame you for thinking about yourself, especially in this kind of situation. But you’re not self-centred. You look after me; you always have, and all I want is to be able to look after you, too.” His smile became a bit brighter. “You’re the best older brother anyone could ask for.” 

[honeyhogger]

Then There Were Two

[dopplerfactorblues]

honeyhogger:

As he felt Sans brush against his leg he stretched out further, his long legs going on either side of Sans so he could fit properly without having his knees against his chest. This really did feel nice, and he found himself relaxing into the warm water and the comfort of knowing Sans was safe here with him.

As the other spoke he opened his eyes, smiling softly back at his brother. “yeah, it has been a while. can’t even remember the last time i had one of these.” He hummed softly, stretching his bare arms up over his head until his back popped satisfyingly.

“course sans. its the least i can do after everything you’ve done for me.” He looked to the side again, sighing. “you’re always doing stuff like this to try and cheer me up and get me moving, it’s about time i started repaying that debt.” Though he was sure he’d never repay it, not even close.

Sans blinked as the other’s legs stretched out to either side of him, before understanding that the position would be much more comfortable for his brother. He tended to be envious of how much taller Papyrus was than him, but in times like this Sans’ height was actually a convenience. 

It was really nice to see Papyrus relaxing, especially since he’d noticed how tense he’d been recently - the both of them were, really. It was hard not to be...But he could feel how the tension and stress had made it so hard to keep his composure or feel happy at all. This moment felt like he could finally breathe a bit easier.

As Papyrus spoke he found himself frowning a little. He leaned forwards and put a hand on Papyrus’ knee to make sure he had his attention, his expression resolute. “There’s no debt to repay. I want to do all that stuff for you, because I want you to be happy, even with...with everything that’s going on. And...nothing I could do would ever equal how much you just being here means to me.” 

[honeyhogger]

Then There Were Two

[dopplerfactorblues]

honeyhogger:

As he was about to step out Sans grabbed his arm and asked him that while looking at his scars. Oh. He pulled his brother in for a tight hug and nuzzled his face into the crook of his shoulder. “…yeah. i promise bro. if it’ll make you feel better ill come back in once you’re all settled in the bath.”

He pulled back and managed to summon a gentle smile, giving Sans and light rub to the head as he stepped outside the door. “just tell me when you want me back in, okay?”

He gently closed the door and leaned back against the wall, sliding down it slowly. Stars, acting this upbeat for the sake of his brother was exhausting, how had Sans done it all these years if he’d remembered the resets too? He ground his teeth and put his head in his hands. He was such a lousy brother, thinking he had an excuse for not always being there for Sans because he was suffering. He didn’t even consider if Sans was suffering too…

He clutched his arms and took a deep shaky breath, trying to push back the tears and stay together for Sans just this once. Could he really not even do that? Was he really that much of a failure as an older brother? “heh, yeah. i am.” He mumbled to himself as he curled up a little bit tighter on the floor.

He squeezed his eye sockets shut as he leaned into the hug, fingers grasping onto Papyrus’ hoodie. He couldn’t help the swell of relief he felt as he heard his brother’s promise. He didn’t want to go through this alone - he couldn’t, and if Pap was gone he knew he wouldn’t last very long by himself. 

Left alone in the bathroom, he did his best to regain at least a little composure…But it was hard to muster the energy to manage even that. Sighing, he settled for lethargically removing his clothes, neatly folding each article of clothing and setting it on the counter.

Once he was done he stepped into the bath tub, tucking his knees to his chest and simply trying to focus on the warm water. It…felt nice, gradually overtaking the cold that’d seeped into his bones, whilst the bubbles made him smile faintly as he moved his hand through it. 

“Pap? Will you…come back in?” 

[honeyhogger]

He forced himself out of his thoughts as Sans called for him. He had to be there for him, at least just this once if nothing else. He opened the door slowly, slipping inside and closing it behind him. “im here sans. is the bath okay?”

He wasn’t sure what Sans wanted him to do so he simply sat on the floor across from the tub, leaning against the wall slightly. He got a glimpse of the scar running across Sans’ neck and winced internally, looking to the side. Stars he was so guilty, just about everything. There’s so much he should’ve noticed, that he should’ve prevented and done.

He sighed softly and rubbed the back of his neck. “sans i…” he started, trying to think about how to apologize for all of this. He thought for a moment before shaking his head, not finishing his sentence. “…never mind. sorry.”

[dopplerfactorblues]

He nodded, watching as Papyrus sat down against the wall. He’d never been all that self-conscious over his body, especially around his brother, but the gradual formation of the scar on his neck had been something he’d kept hidden as best he could. It still felt odd to not do that now, despite knowing that Papyrus had seen it. “The bath is great…” 

His brows furrowed at Papyrus’ halted sentence, concerned as he watched the changes in his expression. He missed when it used to be so easy for them to talk to each other, no secrets or…or everything to do with the resets weighing down on them. He missed feeling confident in what he said, not second guessing himself or wondering if he was just a burden on his brother. 

“Do you want to join me?” Immediately he felt his cheeks burning faintly at the dumb question, but it was the first thing he’d thought of that wasn’t really negative or pathetic. Maybe the warm water would help Papyrus feel better too? 

[honeyhogger]

Pap’s head snapped back up at Sans’ question, a faint blush covering his cheeks that he quickly tried to hide. Sans wanted him to join him in the bath? It not like they hadn’t seen each other naked before, or even never taken a bath together, but the was when they were younger. He wasn’t even sure if Sans was old enough to remember those times. “uh i…”

He mulled it over, using the time to let his blush diminish. Well…what else was he going to do? Just sit here awkwardly against the wall? They were literally the only two left in the timeline, it’s not like anything worse could happen. Why not. “sure. i did make quite the mountain of bubbles, it’d be a shame not to experience them myself.”

Hegot up with a soft sigh and stripped off his hoodie, tossing it haphazardly next to Sans’ folded clothes. Then he shimmied his shorts down, not looking in Sans’ direction as he did. He mentally scolded himself, there was nothing there, he was a skeleton for Toriels sake. However he did leave on his black tank top, not feeling up to having a panic attack at the moment and doing something he’d regret.

He stepped into the bath, letting out a soft sigh and sinking down. Damn, that did feel good. He let his eyes close for a second, just enjoying the warmth. “gotta say, i make a mean bath, heh.”

[dopplerfactorblues]

Papyrus’ reaction had him wanting to take the question back. Was it really that weird? Sure, he could barely remember when they’d last had a bath together, and now that they were adults they didn’t do that sort of thing together, but it was just a bath. They’d been sleeping in the same bed together recently, and that wasn’t something they normally did either, so this should be okay?

He was relieved when Papyrus seemed to decide it was fine, too. Though...it was odd to watch him strip off his clothes, and he ended up looking away with a faint blush when his brother removed his shorts. He was confused for a moment why Papyrus kept his tank top on, before he recalled the damage to Papyrus’ chest and understood why he’d want to keep it covered.

The way Papyrus closed his eye sockets and clearly enjoyed the bath had Sans relaxing, pleased that his question ended up being a good thing. He shifted, feeling his lower leg brush against his brother’s since the bath tub wasn’t really made for two people. “It...seems like it’s been a while since I’ve had a bubble bath.” He smiled at Papyrus. “It feels really good. Thank you for doing this and...and bringing me back home.”

[honeyhogger]

Then There Were Two

[dopplerfactorblues]

honeyhogger:

As he was about to step out Sans grabbed his arm and asked him that while looking at his scars. Oh. He pulled his brother in for a tight hug and nuzzled his face into the crook of his shoulder. “…yeah. i promise bro. if it’ll make you feel better ill come back in once you’re all settled in the bath.”

He pulled back and managed to summon a gentle smile, giving Sans and light rub to the head as he stepped outside the door. “just tell me when you want me back in, okay?”

He gently closed the door and leaned back against the wall, sliding down it slowly. Stars, acting this upbeat for the sake of his brother was exhausting, how had Sans done it all these years if he’d remembered the resets too? He ground his teeth and put his head in his hands. He was such a lousy brother, thinking he had an excuse for not always being there for Sans because he was suffering. He didn’t even consider if Sans was suffering too…

He clutched his arms and took a deep shaky breath, trying to push back the tears and stay together for Sans just this once. Could he really not even do that? Was he really that much of a failure as an older brother? “heh, yeah. i am.” He mumbled to himself as he curled up a little bit tighter on the floor.

He squeezed his eye sockets shut as he leaned into the hug, fingers grasping onto Papyrus’ hoodie. He couldn’t help the swell of relief he felt as he heard his brother’s promise. He didn’t want to go through this alone - he couldn’t, and if Pap was gone he knew he wouldn’t last very long by himself. 

Left alone in the bathroom, he did his best to regain at least a little composure…But it was hard to muster the energy to manage even that. Sighing, he settled for lethargically removing his clothes, neatly folding each article of clothing and setting it on the counter.

Once he was done he stepped into the bath tub, tucking his knees to his chest and simply trying to focus on the warm water. It…felt nice, gradually overtaking the cold that’d seeped into his bones, whilst the bubbles made him smile faintly as he moved his hand through it. 

“Pap? Will you…come back in?” 

[honeyhogger]

He forced himself out of his thoughts as Sans called for him. He had to be there for him, at least just this once if nothing else. He opened the door slowly, slipping inside and closing it behind him. “im here sans. is the bath okay?”

He wasn’t sure what Sans wanted him to do so he simply sat on the floor across from the tub, leaning against the wall slightly. He got a glimpse of the scar running across Sans’ neck and winced internally, looking to the side. Stars he was so guilty, just about everything. There’s so much he should’ve noticed, that he should’ve prevented and done.

He sighed softly and rubbed the back of his neck. “sans i…” he started, trying to think about how to apologize for all of this. He thought for a moment before shaking his head, not finishing his sentence. “…never mind. sorry.”

[dopplerfactorblues]

He nodded, watching as Papyrus sat down against the wall. He’d never been all that self-conscious over his body, especially around his brother, but the gradual formation of the scar on his neck had been something he’d kept hidden as best he could. It still felt odd to not do that now, despite knowing that Papyrus had seen it. “The bath is great...” 

His brows furrowed at Papyrus’ halted sentence, concerned as he watched the changes in his expression. He missed when it used to be so easy for them to talk to each other, no secrets or...or everything to do with the resets weighing down on them. He missed feeling confident in what he said, not second guessing himself or wondering if he was just a burden on his brother. 

“Do you want to join me?” Immediately he felt his cheeks burning faintly at the dumb question, but it was the first thing he’d thought of that wasn’t really negative or pathetic. Maybe the warm water would help Papyrus feel better too? 

[honeyhogger]

Then There Were Two

[dopplerfactorblues]

honeyhogger:

As he was about to step out Sans grabbed his arm and asked him that while looking at his scars. Oh. He pulled his brother in for a tight hug and nuzzled his face into the crook of his shoulder. “…yeah. i promise bro. if it’ll make you feel better ill come back in once you’re all settled in the bath.”

He pulled back and managed to summon a gentle smile, giving Sans and light rub to the head as he stepped outside the door. “just tell me when you want me back in, okay?”

He gently closed the door and leaned back against the wall, sliding down it slowly. Stars, acting this upbeat for the sake of his brother was exhausting, how had Sans done it all these years if he’d remembered the resets too? He ground his teeth and put his head in his hands. He was such a lousy brother, thinking he had an excuse for not always being there for Sans because he was suffering. He didn’t even consider if Sans was suffering too…

He clutched his arms and took a deep shaky breath, trying to push back the tears and stay together for Sans just this once. Could he really not even do that? Was he really that much of a failure as an older brother? “heh, yeah. i am.” He mumbled to himself as he curled up a little bit tighter on the floor.

He squeezed his eye sockets shut as he leaned into the hug, fingers grasping onto Papyrus’ hoodie. He couldn’t help the swell of relief he felt as he heard his brother’s promise. He didn’t want to go through this alone - he couldn’t, and if Pap was gone he knew he wouldn’t last very long by himself. 

Left alone in the bathroom, he did his best to regain at least a little composure...But it was hard to muster the energy to manage even that. Sighing, he settled for lethargically removing his clothes, neatly folding each article of clothing and setting it on the counter.

Once he was done he stepped into the bath tub, tucking his knees to his chest and simply trying to focus on the warm water. It...felt nice, gradually overtaking the cold that’d seeped into his bones, whilst the bubbles made him smile faintly as he moved his hand through it. 

“Pap? Will you...come back in?” 

[honeyhogger]

Then There Were Two

[dopplerfactorblues]

honeyhogger:

Pap ran the bath with hot water and poured some soap in to make it froth and bubble. He let it fill and tried to focus his thoughts on this task instead of letting them wander to their predicament. He put his hand in to test the waters once it was full and nodded, satisfied.

He came back out and walked over to Sans, gently leading him towards the bathroom. “here, i got it set for ya.” He opened the door and gestures to the overflowing bubbly tub. “see? yet lazybones bro can make a mean bubble bath after all. who would’ve thought?”

He was broken out of his thoughts when Papyrus started to guide him to the bathroom, making an effort to focus on what he was saying, and peering at the bath inside. The sight of all the bubbles made him smile faintly. “It looks great, Pap…”

Hesitating for a moment, he looked back up at his brother, grasping his sleeve without realising. “Will you stay?” He felt too…too desperate to care about how clingy he’d been lately. He felt like he’d been stripped raw of all his usual defences and ways of coping with this, leaving him struggling to hang onto what composure he had left. And Pap was the only real thing there was that he could depend on, now that he couldn’t even pull himself together. 

[honeyhogger]

He was relieved to see Sans smile, even just faintly, but at the question he raised his brows curiously. “stay? i mean ill be in the house the whole time. do you mean staying in the bathroom with you?”

His cheeks flushed softly at the suggestion but the way Sans was holding onto his sleeve like a babybones and looking so desperate…how could he ever say no? “course i will bro. im not going anywhere okay? im right here.”

He smiled softly and tried to reassure Sans that they would be okay as he went to the water and checked the temperature again. Yup, it was still nice and warm. He pushed his sleeve up, revealing all those tally mark scars, to swirl the water around and generate a few more bubbles. “feels good. gotta make sure it wasn’t about to burn ya.” Pap knew they couldn’t really get burned, being skeletons and all, but he was trying to distract Sans at least a little. He shook the water off his arm and glanced at the door. “so uh, ill let you undress and stuff but ill be just outside. okay?”

[dopplerfactorblues]

He was too relieved at Papyrus’ agreement to question his blush, following him closer to the bath. Seeing the scars on his arm...It didn’t shock him as it had the first time he’d seen them, he just felt...sad. He knew it was pointless, yet he couldn’t help wishing that there was something he could do to stop all of this from ever happening...

He reached out to grasp Pap’s arm, just shy of the scars, his gaze remaining on them. “...you...promise you won’t go anywhere?” 

He...didn’t know how to ask if Papyrus had considered...Well...There was a much quicker way to bring about the next reset, to bring everyone back...and...it was an option that seemed really appealing way too often. Sans hadn’t ever managed it himself, although...going out to greet the human could be interpreted in a lot of ways. 

[dopplerfactorblues]

honeyhogger:

“heh thanks bro.” He was about to head towards the kitchen when Sans said he wanted to talk. What on earth about? He really didn’t feel like getting into anything about the resets this early in the morning.

When he heard what his brother had to say instead he blinked, confusion settling on his face. “why? i mean, normally that’d be a lazybone’s dream come true but uh, i kinda gotta go to work. plus muffet would get bored without me there to supply some quality puns.” He gave his bro a gentle smile and par him on the head as he passed to go to the kitchen. “if this is about the whole…resets deal i appreciate it but you don’t need to worry about me. im fine, sans.”

Papyrus’ response had him frowning; clearly he hadn’t understood what he meant. He followed his brother into the kitchen, debating how to go about this. Whilst normally he’d be reluctant to speak about the resets, aware of how it affected both their moods, if he wanted to ensure Papyrus’ safety he knew some discomfort might be necessary.

“It is about the resets. It’s about how I had to watch you die right in front of me, and I couldn’t do anything to stop it.” His fingers curled into fists at his side as he did his best to keep the slight waver out of his voice. “If you go out there you’ll end up being hurt again, so I…I need you to stay at home.”

[honeyhogger]

He got to the kitchen and grabbed some food out of the fridge, munching on it slowly as he turned to face his brother again. There was guilt in his eyes and he sighed, looking to the side. “‘m sorry ya had to see that, i certainly know how much that sucks.”

He huffed out a breath and thought. Well, the human wouldn’t be back today anyway, they would still be in the ruins. So if it made Sans feel better… “alright. ill stay inside today if it’ll make you feel better bro.”

[dopplerfactorblues]

He didn’t like to see Papyrus’ guilt, and wanted to assure him that he didn’t blame him at all for it - that there was no reason for him to apologise. But his brother’s agreement to stay inside the house was more important, no matter what was causing it. As much as he hated it, he’d prefer for Papyrus to be guilty and alive, than tormented by the human again. 

With a bright smile he stepped closer to hug his brother. “Thank you!”

Papyrus was right here, with him. He was safe. Sans would make sure it stayed that way, no matter what he had to do. 

[honeyhogger]

He was surprised by the hug but he returned it with a chuckle. “yeah yeah, you won’t be thanking me when my laziness hits an all time high today though. expect extra socks on the floor.”

He teased his brother gently and rubbed the top of his skull. He was a little confused about why Sans wanted him to stay home since he was usually so insistent on getting him to go out, but of course nothing had been quite the same since he found out Sans knew about the resets too.

“well, since i don’t have to go to work today…” He took another bite of breakfast before setting the plate aside, “then im goin back to bed to maximize my extra laziness time, heh.”

[dopplerfactorblues]

He sighed as he leaned into the hug, smiling when Papyrus rubbed his skull. He used to get a bit annoyed over things like that, thinking he was being treated like a kid, but more recently he simply appreciated any contact with Papyrus. It was...a bit of normality after everything that was happening to them. 

He rolled his eyelights as he reluctantly stepped back again. “You better not leave any extra socks out!” He still didn’t understand his brother’s inability to put away his socks. 

When Papyrus decided to go back to bed he found himself tensing, though he was unsure why. Papyrus would be in the house - in his room, even, which as far as he knew the human had never entered - so he’d be perfectly safe, right? Yet...even the thought of his brother being out of his sight made his soul thump anxiously in his chest. 

“...I’ll come with you!” That would- That would help, right? He could just stay close to Papyrus in order to be absolutely sure he was okay. 

[dopplerfactorblues]

honeyhogger:

“heh thanks bro.” He was about to head towards the kitchen when Sans said he wanted to talk. What on earth about? He really didn’t feel like getting into anything about the resets this early in the morning.

When he heard what his brother had to say instead he blinked, confusion settling on his face. “why? i mean, normally that’d be a lazybone’s dream come true but uh, i kinda gotta go to work. plus muffet would get bored without me there to supply some quality puns.” He gave his bro a gentle smile and par him on the head as he passed to go to the kitchen. “if this is about the whole…resets deal i appreciate it but you don’t need to worry about me. im fine, sans.”

Papyrus’ response had him frowning; clearly he hadn’t understood what he meant. He followed his brother into the kitchen, debating how to go about this. Whilst normally he’d be reluctant to speak about the resets, aware of how it affected both their moods, if he wanted to ensure Papyrus’ safety he knew some discomfort might be necessary.

“It is about the resets. It’s about how I had to watch you die right in front of me, and I couldn’t do anything to stop it.” His fingers curled into fists at his side as he did his best to keep the slight waver out of his voice. “If you go out there you’ll end up being hurt again, so I…I need you to stay at home.”

[honeyhogger]

He got to the kitchen and grabbed some food out of the fridge, munching on it slowly as he turned to face his brother again. There was guilt in his eyes and he sighed, looking to the side. “‘m sorry ya had to see that, i certainly know how much that sucks.”

He huffed out a breath and thought. Well, the human wouldn’t be back today anyway, they would still be in the ruins. So if it made Sans feel better… “alright. ill stay inside today if it’ll make you feel better bro.”

[dopplerfactorblues]

He didn’t like to see Papyrus’ guilt, and wanted to assure him that he didn’t blame him at all for it - that there was no reason for him to apologise. But his brother’s agreement to stay inside the house was more important, no matter what was causing it. As much as he hated it, he’d prefer for Papyrus to be guilty and alive, than tormented by the human again. 

With a bright smile he stepped closer to hug his brother. “Thank you!”

Papyrus was right here, with him. He was safe. Sans would make sure it stayed that way, no matter what he had to do. 

[honeyhogger]

Then There Were Two

[dopplerfactorblues]

honeyhogger:

Pap ran the bath with hot water and poured some soap in to make it froth and bubble. He let it fill and tried to focus his thoughts on this task instead of letting them wander to their predicament. He put his hand in to test the waters once it was full and nodded, satisfied.

He came back out and walked over to Sans, gently leading him towards the bathroom. “here, i got it set for ya.” He opened the door and gestures to the overflowing bubbly tub. “see? yet lazybones bro can make a mean bubble bath after all. who would’ve thought?”

He was broken out of his thoughts when Papyrus started to guide him to the bathroom, making an effort to focus on what he was saying, and peering at the bath inside. The sight of all the bubbles made him smile faintly. “It looks great, Pap...”

Hesitating for a moment, he looked back up at his brother, grasping his sleeve without realising. “Will you stay?” He felt too...too desperate to care about how clingy he’d been lately. He felt like he’d been stripped raw of all his usual defences and ways of coping with this, leaving him struggling to hang onto what composure he had left. And Pap was the only real thing there was that he could depend on, now that he couldn’t even pull himself together. 

[honeyhogger]

Then There Were Two

@dopplerfactorblues

This had to be the worst timeline yet, and Pap had seen a ton of horrific timelines in his life. He’d been in ones where the human didn’t reset for months and let him suffer in an empty timeline where everyone he loved was dead. He’d been through timelines where the kid would act friendly and nice to everyone and then go behind their back to stab them the second they got the chance. There were timelines so horrible that rather than suffer through the torment Pap had decided to save himself the pain and ended it himself. But this…this was worse, because his brother was still alive.

Usually, that’d be the best possible outcome for him, but now that he knew Sans remembered the resets like he did it suddenly seemed like a terrible fate. Sans had never seen the kid at their absolute worst, had never seen what they’d done to everyone else in the underground after he was decapitated, and Pap almost saw that as a blessing. At least Sans wouldn’t suffer quite as much as he did. But now…now he was going to see how bad it really was. 

He knew the kid was doing this on purpose, trying to torment him as much as possible. They knew that while Sans was still alive Pap would never take the easy way out. So he’d just have to wait it out with Sans. He supposed it could be worse, at least he had Sans, but while this was slightly better for him he knew this was going to be considerably worse for Sans. And that’s not ever something he wanted.

[honeyhogger]

Pap lifted his hand quickly as Sans flinched, a pang if guilt and sickening worry going through him as Sans tried and failed to put on a happy face. Stars he hated seeing his brother hurt so much. He put his hand on the other’s shoulder again as he saw his smile slipping and let out a small sigh. “you’re not fine sans, i know you’re not. but…at least you’re still here, right?”

That probably wasn’t much of a comfort but Pap was trying to be optimistic for once. He grabbed his brother’s hand in his own and started walking back towards the house, gently pulling Sans along. “come on bro, wandering around out here isn’t gonna make you feel any better. what if i run ya a bubble bath? then i could read ya a story or two, if ya want.”

[dopplerfactorblues]

He gave up on trying to maintain a cheerful expression when Papyrus clearly saw through it, even though he wished he was better at masking how he felt. He didn’t want Papyrus to know he wasn’t okay…The situation was bad enough for his brother; the least he could do was not burden him with his own distress. 

But as Papyrus grabbed his hand and tugged him along, he found himself drifting closer to his side, gradually feeling his trembles fade the longer he was beside his brother. Being out here still made him feel like the human could show up at any moment, yet…he already felt so much better just by having Papyrus here, holding his hand and talking to him. 

“Okay…” 

[honeyhogger]

It wasn’t so much that Sans was bad at acting, he was quite good really, it was that Pap was far too skilled at reading people to be fooled. Especially since he knew Sans so well he could easily tell when something was bothering him. Besides, who would be fine in this situation? Neither of them, that’s for sure.

He was glad to feel the shaking in his brother’s hand subsided at least. He knew what being here alone could do to someone and that was something he never wanted Sans to experience. Not if he could help it. He gave his hand a gentle squeeze as they finally made it to the house and walked inside.

Letting go of Sans he leaned down to place a gentle skelly kiss to his forehead and headed towards the bathroom to run a bubble bath. Hopefully that would cheer him up a little.

[dopplerfactorblues]

Once they were inside the house, some of the tension drained from his frame as he followed Papyrus, expression barely shifting when his brother kissed his forehead. Most of the memories he had of the human being inside his home were really old and felt less real than those that he had once he became gradually more aware of the resets - and by that point, the human seemed...bored with playing along in being his friend, whilst Sans was too cautious to ever invite them in again. To think that he’d once considered them a friend - it made him feel sick, though it was the fact that they’d tormented his brother so much that really made what they’d done unforgivable in his eyes.

He’d felt...shocked and betrayed when they’d killed him, done it over and over no matter what he said, as if it was easy- no, as if it was fun for them. Existing in a timeline where everyone was dead except him and his brother had only driven home just how cruel the human was...Yet...he couldn’t help but feel relieved that he hadn’t had to see Papyrus die again in this reset. 

Would he? Was that...what would inevitably happen? He hoped it’d be one of the resets when it just happened without him needing to die first, sparing the both of them, but it’d been much longer than he was used to, so that didn’t seem likely. The anticipation of it was wearing him down, and it was only thanks to Papyrus that he felt able to keep getting up each day. 

[dopplerfactorblues]

honeyhogger:

“heh thanks bro.” He was about to head towards the kitchen when Sans said he wanted to talk. What on earth about? He really didn’t feel like getting into anything about the resets this early in the morning.

When he heard what his brother had to say instead he blinked, confusion settling on his face. “why? i mean, normally that’d be a lazybone’s dream come true but uh, i kinda gotta go to work. plus muffet would get bored without me there to supply some quality puns.” He gave his bro a gentle smile and par him on the head as he passed to go to the kitchen. “if this is about the whole…resets deal i appreciate it but you don’t need to worry about me. im fine, sans.”

Papyrus’ response had him frowning; clearly he hadn’t understood what he meant. He followed his brother into the kitchen, debating how to go about this. Whilst normally he’d be reluctant to speak about the resets, aware of how it affected both their moods, if he wanted to ensure Papyrus’ safety he knew some discomfort might be necessary.

“It is about the resets. It’s about how I had to watch you die right in front of me, and I couldn’t do anything to stop it.” His fingers curled into fists at his side as he did his best to keep the slight waver out of his voice. “If you go out there you’ll end up being hurt again, so I...I need you to stay at home.”

[honeyhogger]

Then There Were Two

@dopplerfactorblues

This had to be the worst timeline yet, and Pap had seen a ton of horrific timelines in his life. He’d been in ones where the human didn’t reset for months and let him suffer in an empty timeline where everyone he loved was dead. He’d been through timelines where the kid would act friendly and nice to everyone and then go behind their back to stab them the second they got the chance. There were timelines so horrible that rather than suffer through the torment Pap had decided to save himself the pain and ended it himself. But this…this was worse, because his brother was still alive.

Usually, that’d be the best possible outcome for him, but now that he knew Sans remembered the resets like he did it suddenly seemed like a terrible fate. Sans had never seen the kid at their absolute worst, had never seen what they’d done to everyone else in the underground after he was decapitated, and Pap almost saw that as a blessing. At least Sans wouldn’t suffer quite as much as he did. But now…now he was going to see how bad it really was. 

He knew the kid was doing this on purpose, trying to torment him as much as possible. They knew that while Sans was still alive Pap would never take the easy way out. So he’d just have to wait it out with Sans. He supposed it could be worse, at least he had Sans, but while this was slightly better for him he knew this was going to be considerably worse for Sans. And that’s not ever something he wanted.

[honeyhogger]

Pap lifted his hand quickly as Sans flinched, a pang if guilt and sickening worry going through him as Sans tried and failed to put on a happy face. Stars he hated seeing his brother hurt so much. He put his hand on the other’s shoulder again as he saw his smile slipping and let out a small sigh. “you’re not fine sans, i know you’re not. but…at least you’re still here, right?”

That probably wasn’t much of a comfort but Pap was trying to be optimistic for once. He grabbed his brother’s hand in his own and started walking back towards the house, gently pulling Sans along. “come on bro, wandering around out here isn’t gonna make you feel any better. what if i run ya a bubble bath? then i could read ya a story or two, if ya want.”

[dopplerfactorblues]

He gave up on trying to maintain a cheerful expression when Papyrus clearly saw through it, even though he wished he was better at masking how he felt. He didn’t want Papyrus to know he wasn’t okay...The situation was bad enough for his brother; the least he could do was not burden him with his own distress. 

But as Papyrus grabbed his hand and tugged him along, he found himself drifting closer to his side, gradually feeling his trembles fade the longer he was beside his brother. Being out here still made him feel like the human could show up at any moment, yet...he already felt so much better just by having Papyrus here, holding his hand and talking to him. 

“Okay...”