Seen more as an asset or neat tool by a lot of people rather than a person
Initially believed they were meant to serve in some way as their one and only purpose (pearl serving pink diamond, buzz serving star command/galactic alliance and saving the galaxy)
Breaks out of this mentality and has their entire viewpoint changed by a leader of their people (Rose, Woody)
Very loyal to leader, has risked their life for them
Has spent just about their entire life with this leader and being their right hand man
Leader leaves them in favor of someone else (Greg, Bo Peep) and a new life (new life being quite literal in rose's case, meanwhile Woody becomes a lost toy)
Their overall focus shifts from their original purpose to being there for the leader's child (Steven, Andy/Bonnie)
Attracted to people who are reminiscent of leader (Mystery girl, Jessie)
Is massed produced
Can and has had amnesia due to being reset
Reset happens because of clingy pink person who turned evil due to being left behind by owner
I hate I’m in a course I’m not passionate or care about. I hate that I can’t express my fashion choice without being belittled.
I wished my prayers of being dead before 18 came true so I don’t have to deal with the bs I have to deal with now.
I know putting in the effort and hard work is important. Being disciplined is important. But whats the point of being disciplined for something I dont care for? I dont want this at all. I didn’t even plan this far because I thought I’d be gone by then.
I know I should learn to appreciate what I have but it’s hard not to think about the things I could have.
Also, this isn’t a phase or whatever. Its how I think because all my life I felt like I burdened the people around me, that I’m a cruel and selfish individual.
So is it wrong I want to just not be here? Is it wrong for me to think logically that if I died that my funeral would be the last shit they spend on me and its done.
Buzz thought his life was to save the galaxy from Emperor Zurg. That's what he thought his purpose was. But now that Buzz looked at the sheriff, trapped in that cage, back facing him, he felt something stir inside him.
Despite his whole reality being a lie, this new reality the sheriff has introduced him to didn’t seem so empty.
｡ ₊° ༺ ˗ˋˏ 𖢻 ˎˊ˗ ༻ °₊ ｡
“C’mon, Buzz! Live a little!” Woody laughed from the float while the other toys started jumping into the pool.
The motel pool glowed bright blue beneath the surface, giving everyone a slight tint of blue in their shine.
“Aren’t we already… living?” Buzz raised a brow as he stood stiffly by the pool.
Woody scoffed, “I meant like, have fun. C’mon, jump in!” he leaned on the float he was on.
Buzz took a step closer and leaned over to look into the water, “Is it.. safe?”.
“What’s safe?” Woody looked up
“Me jumping into this vast and deep body of water that I have unknown knowledge of,” Buzz explained.
Woody laughed which made Buzz tilt his head, “Ok, ok…” he says as he jumps off the float and walks over to Buzz, grabs his shoulders and turns him around.
Buzz stiffened as Woody unlocked his back panels and removed his batteries, “There! Smart thinking, Buzz. Now you’re safe to jump in.” he says as he jumps back into the float.
Buzz looked back at the batteries that were at a safe distance, then back to Woody. Woody leaned his side on the float and noticed Buzz just standing there like a statue again.
“Buzz,” Woody turned to him, “Get in! Seriously, it's fine.”
Buzz looked down at the water then at Woody, “If it’s fine, then why aren’t you going in?” he asked.
Woody blinked, “Oh- that! That’s because I can’t get into the water.” he explained, “See, I’m made of wool and you’re made of plastic, if I were to jump into the water, I’d… y’know.. sink.” his hand gestures as he speaks.
Buzz nodded understandingly, “So you’d drown?”.
“Not necessarily drown. I’m a toy, remember?” Woody reminded, “I’d just sink to the bottom and it would take me forever to dry off.”.
Buzz nodded again, “Understood.”.
“Now,” Woody got comfortable in the float, “Just jump in and enjoy the water, Buzz.” he waved Buzz off.
Woody rested his back in the float and looked up at the peaceful night sky. It was a clear night tonight. At least, he thought it was clear and peaceful until the entire float shook. Woody looks up and sees Buzz now sitting in the float with him.
Woody stared at Buzz, “Buzz, what are you doing?”.
“Sitting in this floating contraption,” Buzz responded, staring curiously inside the float.
“I can see that,” he says, “I mean, why aren’t you taking a dip?”.
Buzz responded, “You’re not in.”.
Woody laughed, “So?”.
Buzz now looked confused, “Why would I go in when you’re right here?”.
Buzz could see that Woody seemed to go speechless. Instead of trying to convince Buzz to just jump in, he laughed. That laughter. He used to find it agitating, but now, it tickled his insides a bit.
｡ ₊° ༺ ˗ˋˏ 𖢻 ˎˊ˗ ༻ °₊ ｡
“A… Lightyear toy?” Stinky Pete said slowly, “Don’t they have that flaw where they-”
“Think they’re an actual space ranger? Yeah, they do and he definitely did think he was one… but he’s not like that anymore..” Woody explained.
Stinky Pete observed Woody, “This, Lightyear toy, he won’t have a problem with you going to Japan with us, right?” he asked.
Woody sighed, "That's the only thing holding me back right now..”.
That answer worried Stinky Pete more. He’s heard rumours of these space toys and how they became the next best-selling thing. But then Buzz Lightyear toys, are not only quirky but very troublesome. Especially for his plan.
“Aww, I’m sure he’ll be fine!” Jessie exclaimed, “If he really does care about you, he’ll be happy with the decision you’ll make.” she says which seems to lighten Woody up a bit but not enough.
｡ ₊° ༺ ˗ˋˏ 𖢻 ˎˊ˗ ༻ °₊ ｡
“Give it up, sheriff!” Stinky Pete pulled Woody back inside the case, “He’s gone.”
Woody shoved him back, “He’s coming for me! I know he is!” He opened the case and crawled out and tried to unlock the door but Stinky Pete pulled him back again.
Stinky Pete pressed his foot to Woody’s chest, “He’s miles back! How is he going to get to us? You tell me!?” he asked.
Just as he said there, a loud crash was heard behind them.
“Damn, that’s one drunk driver,” Al commented as he looked in the rear-view mirror.
Woody’s eyes lit up, “Buzz..”, but that light quickly diminished when Stinky Pete grabbed Woody and forced him back into the case.
｡ ₊° ༺ ˗ˋˏ 𖢻 ˎˊ˗ ༻ °₊ ｡
“So… you’re his sister?” Buzz said curiously.
“Yes! Oh Buzz, you should’ve actually seen the episodes! They were something.” Woody explained that Jessie got up really close to Buzz.
“So you're Buzz Lightyear? Aren’t you just the sweetest!!!” She squealed as she almost picked Buzz up as she spun around with him.
Buzz felt the world spin as the cowgirl let him go, “Uhh, the pleasure is.. mine?”.
Jessie giggled, “Woody talked a lot about you! Said you were his bestest of all best friends-”
“Okay now- I did not!” Woody cuts in which just made Jessie giggle harder.
“Trust me, he did,” Jessie whispered to Buzz which earned a glare from Woody.
“Okay, I didn’t bring you here to spread lies about me.” Woody pointed.
“Relax!” Jessie exclaimed enthusiastically as she pulled Woody down into a hug, “I was just kidding ya!”.
Buzz watched the interaction unfold. Jessie displays affection in a way that looks so…rough? Yet this kind of rough seemed perfectly safe and acceptable in a loving way. Jessie seemed to make Woody happy. If Woody’s happy, then Buzz is happy.
｡ ₊° ༺ ˗ˋˏ 𖢻 ˎˊ˗ ༻ °₊ ｡
“Why are we doing this?” Woody asked.
The four of them. Woody, Buzz, Bo and Jessie were sitting at a makeshift table prepared in the backyard, with what looked like candles in the middle. Buzz sat opposite him while Jessie sat opposite Bo.
“Because it’s fun!” Jessie grinned mischievously which made Bo giggle.
“Besides, the sky is very clear tonight. Is it so wrong to just enjoy the night with a friend?” Bo gestured to the sky.
“Or partner...” Jessie whispered which made Woody nudge her.
Woody looked over at Buzz who sat there so stiffly. Woody could almost see Jessie dragging Buzz into this mayhem just because. And Buzz probably just went along with it to avoid hurting her feelings. They made eye contact and accepted the fact that this was happening.
“Buzz, you’re a space ranger, right?” Jessie leaned her shoulders on the table, “Tell us something about the galaxy.”.
Buzz blinked, “The.. galaxy?”.
“Oh, please do. I mean, you seem very knowledgeable about it.” Bo says with a smile.
Buzz looked between Jessie and Bo, then at Woody. Woody could tell Buzz was stuck and confused about what to say.
Woody hummed, “Uhh, maybe.. talk about the stars, y’know? Like the constellations you’ve told me about.” he offered an idea.
Jessie side-eyed Woody, “Oh, so you’ve talked about stars together before huh?” She elbowed Woody which made Woody scoff.
Buzz blinked and looked up at the stars. Indeed he has talked about so many constellations and stars with Woody. It was just one of the things they do to pass the time. Maybe, he could talk about binary star systems tonight.
｡ ₊° ༺ ˗ˋˏ 𖢻 ˎˊ˗ ༻ °₊ ｡
Buzz could tell Woody just wanted to leave Sunnyside. Buzz believed Woody when he said Andy was just trying to put him and the others in the attic, but he wouldn’t lie he didn’t like the thought of Woody going off to college and leaving him behind. The thought plagued his mind the entire car ride until they arrived at Sunnyside.
Buzz looked at Woody from behind him. Even if he chose to go with Woody, he won’t be there. He’ll be in the attic and Woody will be in college with Andy. This terrible gut-wrenching feeling ate at him on the inside. The thought of Woody leaving him. He didn’t want that.
Maybe… maybe he should just leave. The mission was over.
｡ ₊° ༺ ˗ˋˏ 𖢻 ˎˊ˗ ༻ °₊ ｡
Lotso watched as Buzz and the other toys tried to get comfortable. A Lightyear in his kindergarten. This could be a great asset.
“So, what’s up, boss?” Ken asked as he entered the dimly lit security room, side-eyeing the monkey as he walked past it.
“That Lightyear toy… does he have an owner?” Lotso asked as he pointed his cane at the monitor showing Buzz.
“Uh..” Ken stared, “I don’t think so..? I mean, why else would he be here-”
“No, you idiot.” Lotso cuts him off and turns to face Ken, “Does he belong to someone? Another toy? Anyone??” he repeated himself.
“No. I don’t think so,” Ken stated, “Maybe it was that cowboy but he’s gone now.”.
Lotso turned back to the monitor with Buzz, “Good. We need someone like him on the team.” he grinned as his eyes darkened.
｡ ₊° ༺ ˗ˋˏ 𖢻 ˎˊ˗ ༻ °₊ ｡
“Buzz?!” Woody yelled as he dodged one of the objects Buzz threw at him.
Woody needed to buy time for the others to unlock the vents and escape, so he was just running around and dodging Buzz’s attacks.
“Buzz, it’s me!” Woody yelled but it seemed not to work since a blade from a cutter flew past Woody’s face.
Buzz gained speed on Woody. Woody tried jumping up on the counters but Buzz cut him off somehow. This wasn’t the Buzz Woody knew. He could tell by the look in his eyes. Woody backed away.
“Buzz… what did they do to you???” He says as he tries to think of an escape route.
“You’re infiltrating this facility.” Buzz stated in that tone he used to have long ago, “You need to be exterminated.”.
“Buzz, I’m not some pest. I’m your friend!” Woody gestured to himself, “It’s me, Buzz! Woody!”.
Buzz stopped closing in, and there was a slight hesitation in his movement. That hesitation was enough for Woody to tackle Buzz off the counter and fall to the ground. They landed hard. Well, Buzz did since he cushioned the fall for Woody.
Woody sat up and looked at Buzz, “Buzz?”.
It took a moment, but Buzz jerked awake and gasped like he was waking up from a dream. Woody watched as Buzz blinked and looked around him like he didn’t know where he was.
“Buzz?!” Woody called out.
Buzz looked up at Woody. Woody smiled at what he saw, those familiar eyes were back.
｡ ₊° ༺ ˗ˋˏ 𖢻 ˎˊ˗ ༻ °₊ ｡
It was a cold night tonight. All the toys sat inside the closet. Comfortable after being out of the box. All except Buzz. Buzz at first was asleep but when he stirred awake for some reason, he found someone missing.
Buzz carefully opened the closet doors and walked out. Bonnie slept peacefully on the bed but no cowboy. Buzz silently climbed up the desk and scanned the room. He noticed the open window, so without hesitation, he made his way to the window and jumped out.
He walked around the house for a bit until he was at the front of the house on the porch. There he was.
“Sheriff,” Buzz stood a good distance from Woody to give him space, “..are you alright?” he asked.
Woody shrugged, “I thought being here would make me happy but… I don’t think it did..” he explained as his eyes remained on the road where Andy drove away from him.
Buzz moved closer and sat next to Woody with a small gap between them, “So… you’d leave to go to college with Andy…?” he asked.
Woody looked at Buzz, “If I did, would it be that bad?” he muttered, eyes gazing at the moonlit grass.
Buzz felt something inside him shake slightly, “You’d go with Andy… and leave me behind..?” he mumbled mostly to himself.
Buzz thought he said it quietly enough but Woody actually looked back at him and scoffed, “Oh please, don’t act like you didn’t just leave me to stay at Sunnyside.”.
Buzz frowned, “I only did that because you were already going to leave me..” he admitted which made Woody actually stop being sarcastic.
“Buzz..”
“You were going to leave.” Buzz repeated, “And the thought of you leaving somewhere without me wasn’t pleasant.”.
Woody looked into Buzz’s eyes. He could sense and feel the vulnerability from Buzz. How could he be this stupid? Of course, Buzz wouldn’t go back. If he did, he'd be alone in the attic and Woody would be with Andy in college.
Woody held himself together, “I’m sorry, Buzz..” he started, “I should’ve.. I..” he lost his words.
Buzz maintained eye contact the entire time wondering where Woody was going with this.
Woody finally cleared his throat, “I’m sorry, Buzz for taking you for granted. All these years, you’ve been by my side and I’ve never appreciated it enough…” he expressed.
Buzz’s gaze softened, “It’s nothing-”
“It’s NOT nothing, Buzz!” Woody stood up which means now Buzz is standing up too.
“I’ve been a jerk towards you since day one, and I still haven’t learnt my lesson!” Woody couldn’t help but feel guilty now.
“Woody-”
“No, Buzz. You don’t get to just comfort me this time!” Woody cuts him off again.
Buzz stared at the distressed cowboy, then stepped in and grabbed Woody by the shoulders.
“Woody.” He said sternly which snapped Woody out of his distressed moment.
“It’s really nothing,” Buzz reassured.
Woody tilted his head with confusion, “….how can it be nothing??”.
Buzz chose his words carefully, “No matter what happens between us or around us..” his eyes locked in with Woody’s, “..why would I be anywhere else if you’re right here?”.
Woody let out a laugh, a small and soft laugh. He reached out to Buzz and pulled him into a hug. Buzz moved into the hug and allowed Woody to lean on him.
“Thank you, Buzz…. thank you,” Woody whispered as he held onto Buzz tighter.
Buzz held on too, “…I mean it.” he said just to make sure.
“Tomorrow is the first day of spring! Isn’t it exciting guys?!?” Rex announces as he takes a look outside the bedroom window.
“We’ve been through many springs before, what's so special about this one?” Mr Potatohead yelled from across the room.
Hamm, who was next to Rex turned to the potato, “Haven’t you seen the news? There’s a meteor shower going to happen. And it’s going to be the clearest meteor shower there is!”.
All the toys in Bonnie’s room seemed to light up. Especially Buzz. His eyes widened at the news but he remained still. This might be the first meteor shower he experienced, one that wasn’t from imaginary playtime that is. As silly as it was, Buzz loved anything to do with space. Maybe it’s because it’s familiar to him.
Mr Potatohead scoffed, capturing everyone’s attention, “Please, it’s just falling burning rocks. We can just grab some paper towels, burn em, and drop em off the roof!” he laughed to himself.
Mr Pricklepants hummed, “A meteor shower does sound spectacular. If it does happen, this will be the first meteor shower I’ll ever witness.”
“Ya, I’ve never seen one too!” Trixie added, “We should watch it together!” she suggested.
The room erupted with excitement, but Hamm cut it short: “Unfortunately though, we won’t be able to see it.”
“What? Why???” Trixie asked with disappointment.
“The estimated time it’ll start is at 3:30,”
“Oh, that isn’t so bad-”
“3:30 am,” Hamm added.
“3:30 am?? That late? Bonnie’s parents aren't going to allow Bonnie to stay up that late.” Trixie said with further disappointment.
“Plus, didn’t they say we were going back to Grandma and Grandpa’s house for the week. We’d probably be in the car driving and everything as the meteor shower starts.” Dolly added.
Everyone seemed to start putting aside the idea of the meteor shower. Buzz too, although the disappointment hurts, but it won’t be the end of the world to not see a meteor shower. Woody notices Buzz’s long stare. He was listening the whole time but remained quiet. He was quiet mostly these days but not with Buzz.
So far Buzz hasn’t noticed yet, how Woody speaks like he always does with Buzz and the others he just hums or replies with short responses now. Woody can’t explain why yet, but if he wants to come up with some reason, it’s probably how everything has changed. Andy is gone. The house he’s been in all his life is gone. He’s lost close friends too. Especially that ‘friend’. Bo.
It’s been years now since he left Bo in that box. Sometimes he wonders what would’ve happened if Bo had come with him. Would she still be here with him? Would they still be together and happy? ‘Together’ and ‘happy’. Those two words, do they mean the same thing? Does being together ultimately make you happy? If that's true, then why are there some people who are together yet unhappy? And people who aren’t together yet they’re happy? Would he and Bo be happy together right now? Or would they be happy despite not being together?
Woody looked up at the culprit for all this. All this questioning. All this doubt and guilt. Buzz had his teal eyes glued to the floor. Woody struggled to admit that his feelings for Buzz had changed ever since Bo was taken away from him. Buzz was always there for him and kept him company. Their friendship strengthened so much over the years to the point that their bond felt stronger than ever compared to his bond with Bo. Woody’s gaze remained on Buzz. Does Buzz even know what he does to him? How does Buzz make his mind both at ease and in chaos?
Woody snapped out of whatever train of thought he was on. He slid off the bed and made his way to Buzz. Woody snapped Buzz out of his own train of thought by leaning on Buzz. Buzz blinked and turned to Woody who had his elbow on his shoulder.
“Hey there, buddy.” Woody said, “Sorry you couldn’t get to see that meteor shower..”.
Buzz shook his head then smiled, “It’s just a meteor shower.” He looked at Woody now, “Besides, I’ve seen them multiple times before.” he lied.
Woody chuckled, “Ya? In your little cardboard spaceship?” he teased which made Buzz roll his eyes.
The sudden loud approaching footsteps from outside were enough of a sign.
“Bonnie’s coming!” Jessie announced, and like that, all toys went limp.
₊⊹᪥·༻𐫱༺·᪥⊹₊
Woody turned to his other side for the fifth or sixth time. They were in the car now on the way to Grandma and Grandpa’s house. He was in the backseat next to Bonnie. She had fallen asleep. Buzz, Dolly and Trixie were in the backpack on the floor and everyone else was in the trunk. Woody looked out the window and could see the clear sky and the same tree still in sight for the past few minutes.
Woody turned again, his face facing away from the window, hiding from any light. He pulled his hat over his face and closed his eyes, wondering how long this car ride would take. Usually it takes an hour or so. Yet they’re still on the highway. What’s taking so long?
“How long do you think this’ll take?” Mrs Anderson whispered to Mr Anderson, asking the question everyone was wondering.
Mr Anderson sighed, “Who knows? Traffic still looks bad.” he said.
Woody sighed quietly to himself. He closed his eyes in the hopes that he would find some sleep. He tried counting sheep. One sheep. Two sheep. Three sheep… three sheep. Bo… She and her sheep were always the sweetest. But then again, if they were the sweetest to him, why does he have this bitter feeling inside?
Woody turned again, but suddenly there was light shining into his eyes. He opened his eyes and he wasn’t in the car anymore. He sat up. An endless meadow of green soft grass blanketed by a warm sun. Sprinkles of colour on the rich green floor with little glitter of light from droplets. Has it rained? It seems so.
Woody stood up. It looked so warm and welcoming. He took a few steps forward, but it seemed so endless. The grass. The sky. The-
“BA!” Woody jumped back as the sheep hopped past him.
Then another.
And another.
And many sheep start hopping by Woody. He was caught in the flock, their fluffy bodies knocking Woody and twisting and turning him off his feet. Finally once Woody was out of that wave, he struggled to remain stable and not fall on his feet. He stumbled over his steps until a hand held him up and still. Woody turned to the hand then to the person holding him.
“Bo..” Woody gasped softly.
Bo’s other hand reached Woody’s cheek. Gently cupping his cheek and caressing it.
“Hi, Woody.” She smiled warmly.
Woody blinked many times. As many times as he could.
“Bo.. you’re here! How are you here??” he asked, now looking around, “..in this place.. What is this place, Bo???”.
Bo bent down and picked up her cane then held it in her hand, “It’s so good to see you again, Woody.”.
Woody exhaled, “It’s been… too long, Bo…” he said as he moved closer to Bo and hugged her.
Bo leaned into the hug. The birds from around them sang their song and the sheep grazing around them minded their business. When they separated, they linked their forehead and just let it be.
“I missed you,” Woody whispered, hand never leaving Bo’s.
“I know you did..” she whispered back, “..but I can tell something’s wrong.”
Woody blinked and pulled back, “What’s wrong?”.
Bo looked at Woody softly, “You, Woody… you’re troubled with something.” she says.
Woody wanted to hide it but Bo’s gaze softened him. She knows. Why else would she say what she said? There's no point in lying.
Woody struggled to find his words, “H-How?”.
Bo laughed, “You're not good at hiding your feelings, Woody.”.
Woody exhaled but laughed, “I thought I was doing a good job to be honest.”
“Ya well, with Buzz it might work but with me?” Bo smiled.
Woody laughed harder now, with more nervousness in his tone until he went quiet, “Bo.. I still love you..” he says.
Bo’s smile drops slightly, “I know... but I don’t want you to lie to yourself.” She gently held Woody’s shoulder.
“But I’m-”
“I know you love me and I love you too. But I’m not here anymore, Woody,” she said softly which made Woody shake his head.
“But you’re-”
“I’m not here anymore… and I want you to be happy without feeling guilty,” she reassured.
Woody looked into her eyes, “I don’t want to leave you alone, Bo.”
Bo gripped his elbow softly, “I know you don’t, but I don’t want to be together forcefully.”
“I want you to be happy without any force. So please, let me go..” Her hand was now gently placed over his chest.
Woody exhaled, “Will you.. be alright?” he asked as he placed a hand over hers and held it.
Bo smiled, “Someone once told me, if you love something or someone so deeply, you let them go,”.
Woody laughed, “Barbie?”.
Bo laughed too, “Yeah.”
“She was always wise with words..” Woody smiled.
Bo cupped Woody’s cheek again, “I think.. you two will be happy together.”
Woody looked at Bo properly, then smiled sadly, “This is.. a very bitter and sweet moment…”.
Bo giggled, “Basically bittersweet, right?”.
Woody pulled Bo into one last hug, “I hope you’re happy… whenever you are.”.
Bo hugged him back, eyes closed, “I love you too…”.
HONK!
Woody felt the world shake and suddenly he flew off the car seat to the floor.
“Come on!”
“Bonnie’s sleeping!” Mrs Anderson scolded in a whispering tone which made Mr Anderson nod and mumble some words.
Woody blinked and looked around. He was back in the car. Woody rubbed his head, that was the weirdest dream he’s ever had. Yet the most comforting one so far.
“Are you ok?” Buzz’s voice reached him from the bag.
Woody groaned, “Yeah, yeah, I’m fine.” he reassured, “Did I wake you?”.
Buzz shook his head, “No. Dolly and Trixie are still asleep.”.
Woody looked over and indeed Trixie and Dolly were fast asleep, he looked at Buzz, “Did you sleep?”.
Buzz shrugged, “No..”.
Woody carefully snuck over closer to Buzz, “Why not?” he asked.
Buzz shrugged again, “It’s nothing important..”.
Woody stared then smirked, “Y’know.. you’re not that great of a liar.”.
Buzz blinked, “..I’m not lying.” he remained with his statement.
Woody sat next to him, “C’mon, Buzz. When have you ever lied to me and it worked?” he asked which made Buzz actually think and not find an answer to.
Woody waited until Buzz admitted, “I’m just waiting for the meteor shower..”.
Woody didn’t look surprised at all, “Why didn’t you invite me?”.
Buzz sighed and rubbed his neck, “I didn’t know if you’d be interested or not..”
“Well, that’s the point of inviting, y’know?” Woody chuckled, “I mean, if you’d invite me, you would’ve known I’d love to watch some falling burning rocks.” his tone now had a hint of tease.
Buzz blinked, “Wait- you would’ve said yes?”.
Woody laughed, “You think I’m that cruel?” to which Buzz remained silent.
Woody turned to Buzz now, “Ok. Invite me to join you, Buzz.”.
Buzz stared, “What?”
Woody simply waited which made Buzz nervously clear his voice.
“Would you like to join me?” he tried.
Woody leaned back slightly, “That’s a question, not an invitation.”
Buzz was now dumbfounded and sat straight for some reason.
“Join me.” he tried again.
Woody hummed, “Too demanding.”
Buzz looked down deep in thought then tried again.
“Join me?”
“Another question.”
Woody watched as Buzz frowned and took a minute before trying again.
“I’m going to watch a meteor shower tonight, if you’d care to join me.”
They stared at each other for a moment. Buzz was a little nervous, but that nervousness washed away when Woody smiled.
Two dolls stood side by side before the metal fence that surrounded this special, fun place for kids. To kids, it may look like prison but to mature minds it is merely a safety precaution.
“What’s with all this yelling?” The raggedy ann doll demanded.
The vintage-looking doll, a finger twirling in one of her shiny, well-kept, rusty copper hairs, “Why are you always so sour when I call?” she side-eyed her red-haired friend.
The raggedy ann rolled her eyes, “Because it’s too early for this! Annebelle is already off to her class and you’re here doing… whatever it is you’re doing.” She gestures to the vintage doll.
The vintage doll lifts her dress to properly turn to the Raggedy Ann, “I apologise, Ann. I forgot you’re in one of your moods.” although her tone sounds slightly mocking.
Earning a sigh from Ann, “Whatever, Belle. Straight to the point.” She waves away any more beating-around-the-bush type of talking.
Belle turns back to the outside beyond the metal gates. Beyond the gates of this well-beloved establishment, is a lovely spot for campers to enjoy nature. A place where a naturalist would go crazy to visit. The kindergarten happens to be a lucky establishment to be blessed with the enrichments of Mother Nature. Trees shade the small playground within the kindergarten, which doesn’t overshadow the colour but makes the colours glow naturally and healthily. Belle finally points towards a specific tree.
“I swore I saw a toy climb up that tree,” Belle says with certainty.
Ann focused her eyes on the tree, “Climb up a tree you said?” she asked again.
“Quite good looking too.”
“You’re married, aren’t you?” Ann glared which earned another glare from Belle.
“Oh relax, I’m just complimenting.” she shrugged.
“Well it seems you’re complimenting a ghost because there's nobody-”
“I- I- I come in peace!”
Both doll heads snapped up towards the branches. Up above, a battle between a squirrel and what looked like one of those space toys. The squirrel was on top of the toy and the toy seemed to be struggling to get the squirrel off.
“Oh my-”
“I told you.”
They watched the squirrel scratch at the buttons on the toy’s chestplate. Making the voice lines repeat themselves without finishing the sentence.
“To- To- To- To infinity and beyond!”
The toy finally shoved the squirrel off but with that shove came a fall. Luckily the branch was below a pile of rotting fallen leaves. The toy landed safely in the pile.
“Dear me, I hope he’s alright.” Ann gasped as she held a hand over her chest and observed the toy dig its way out of the leaves.
Belle observed too, “Why do you think he’s climbing the tree?”.
Ann sighed at her friend's question, “Who bloody cares? He fell from a tree fighting a squirrel for god’s sake! He could’ve broken a limb.”
“But he didn’t, didn’t he?” Belle gestures to the perfectly fine space toy, “Besides, we’ve got Bob the Builder on standby if anything goes south.”
Behind the two, the toy fixed his yellow hard hat as he turned to the dolls, “Uhm, ladies?” he asked, expecting they needed something.
“Shut it, Bob.” Belle waved him off without even looking back.
The toy in the distance walks back from the tree and looks up. Almost like he’s observing, no, searching for something. Body stiff like a soldier, maybe made of plastic and less articulated than most toys. Yet modern enough to have a push-to-talk button.
“Y’know what, Ann..”
“Hmm?”
“I think… he’s too short for my taste.”
“Bloody hell.”
The toy suddenly made a move again, and this time they managed to get a clear view of the toy climbing with swift precision. Hands gripping the bark of the tree and lifted himself with ease.
“What do you think he’s searching for?” Ann says thoughtfully with her hand on her chin.
“I don’t know...” Belle tilts her head to observe more comfortably.
“Well whatever it is he’s searching for, he’s quite brave to take on a rapid squirrel,” Ann commented.
Just after she says that, the toy was bracing for impact into the same leaves that had embraced him a moment ago. The toy digs itself out of the leaves and seems to look exhausted. He pulled himself out again, hands on his hips as he looked back up at the tree branches.
Then suddenly an idea seems to spark within the toy, eyes widened with colour as he starts digging out the leaves and pulling out a stick hidden underneath. The toy carefully stuck the stick on his back and continued his climb once again.
Belled hummed, “I don’t know, Ann. It just seems more fatuous than bravery.” she commented which received an eye-roll from the other.
The toy hops back into battle with the squirrel. He pulls out the stick and waits for the right moment. The squirrel runs up and pounces. The toy counters the attack by blocking the squirrel with the stick and steering the squirrel off the branch. Now this time, it was the squirrel bracing for impact.
Using this opportunity, the toy sprinted to the squirrel’s nest and searched inside. A hand reaches inside and grabs something brown. A victorious grin spread on his face just in time before the squirrel returned and dropped kicks the toy back into the pile of leaves once again. The toy pulled himself out and held out the retrieved item with pride.
“All that trouble just for a hat???” Belle stared in disbelief.
Ann stared a little longer, “But it doesn’t seem like it belongs to him at all.” she points out.
“Not to mention it doesn’t match at all,” Belle adds on.
The toy smiles proudly and hooks the hat under his elbow and bolts off into the distance until he’s out of sight.
Ann followed the toy until it was out of sight, “Huh.”.
“Well, that’s that.” Belle exclaimed as she clapped her hands together, “Let’s head over to the swings, it’s a little sunnier there.”
Ann stared back at the last sight where the toy was, then shrugged and followed suit.
❀𖤣𖥧𖡼⊱✿⊰𖡼𖥧𖤣❀
“For the last time, I don’t know where Buzz is! What? You think I have one of those tracking devices to track down Buzz???” Woody repeated for the hundredth time to Buttercup.
“Aren’t you two like, attached to the hip? How can you not know where your partner is?” Mr Pricklepants asked as he crawled out of the bag Bonnie brought all the toys in.
Woody groaned, “I don’t know, Mr Pricklepants…. maybe it’s because I didn’t predict that my partner would jump out the window of a moving vehicle to go after my hat!??!!”
“Ok, ok, let’s take a breather.” Dolly calmly announced, “Look, we still have a day left here. Buzz knows where we are and he’ll come back.” she reassured everyone.
Everyone nodded except Woody who was deep in thought.
❀𖤣𖥧𖡼⊱✿⊰𖡼𖥧𖤣❀
Woody couldn’t sleep that night. All he could think about was how Buzz simply jumped out the window after his hat. It’s just a hat! He didn’t need to do all that just for him.
Woody sat up, looked at the sleeping Bonnie next to him. He carefully stepped around the sleeping kid, unzipped the tent and stepped out. The outside was cooler than ever with a soft moonlight blanketing them all. Woody looked around to make sure the coast was clear before running towards a tree. Woody ducked behind the tree, peeked out to make sure the coast was clear again before running to the next.
Woody repeated this until he was running to the fifth tree. He thought he heard something behind him so he looked back momentarily. He had the air knocked out of him as he crashed into something. He blinked and groaned because it was quite the collision. He looked down and those familiar eyes stared back.
“Woody!?” Buzz exclaimed with disbelief.
“Buzz?!?” Woody smiled almost with relief, but then his smile dropped, “Buzz.”.
Buzz noticed the tone and quickly raised his hands placatingly, “L-look… let me explain-!”
Woody grabbed Buzz, pulled him back on his feet and shook him with such force, “YOU! Have you completely lost it?!?” he yelled.
Buzz winced, “Woody, please-”.
“Oh don’t ‘Woody, please’ me you stupid idiotic moron! Jumping out of a moving vehicle?!?!”
Buzz gently held out the hat, “I- I was just retrieving your-
Woody snatched the hat out of Buzz's hand, “THIS!” he raised the hat to show Buzz, “Was not that important where you had to risk your life!!”.
“Woody, please, calm down-”
“CALM DOWN?!?!!” Woody’s voice erupted making Buzz wince harder, “You have the audacity to tell me to ‘calm down’ after I witnessed the most idiotic stunt you’ve ever pulled on me??? Is THAT what you’re telling me to ‘calm down’ about?!?!”.
“Alright, I admit it!” Buzz stated, “What I did was stupid.”
“Thank you.”
“I should’ve told you beforehand, waited for your response then jumped out of the vehicle.” Buzz continued.
“Well, that’s- Wait! No- don’t jump out of-”
“Should I wait for the vehicle to stop?” Buzz raised a brow.
Woody stumbled over his words, “No! Don’t jump out of any moving vehicle. Ever!”
Buzz nodded, “Affirmative. It won’t happen again.”.
Woody was still annoyed but his tension eased. He let out a sigh as he looked at his rescued hat then at Buzz.
“You had us all worried back there…”
“I’ll apologise to the others,” Buzz reassured.
Woody looked back at the hat, fingers tracing the stitched edges, “...you had me worried.”
Buzz’s expression softened. He searched Woody’s face and could only find signs of worry and stress. Buzz gently took Woody’s hat from his hands and placed it on his head right where it belonged. Then reached for Woody’s hands and held them close.
“I apologise for my brazen display.. it was, indeed, stupid.” Buzz apologised, maintaining eye contact with Woody until he reciprocated.
Woody rolled his eyes, “What’s with the scratch marks?”
Buzz hummed confusedly then looked down at himself to realise the scratch marks all over his chest, “Oh- that's uhm..” he stuttered as Woody simply stared.
Buzz sighed, “I was attacked by a squirrel.”
Woody frowned, “A squirrel?”.
“It took your hat to build its nest.” Buzz further explained, “I had to fight it to get it back.”.
Woody and Buzz look at each other for a while before Woody bursts out laughing. He laughed so hard he bent over holding his stomach. Usually, if it were anyone else, he’d find great displeasure in his struggles and efforts being met with laughter. But this wasn’t anyone else now, was it?
Buzz smiled, “I know, very funny..”
“Let me guess- let me guess-!” Woody held out a hand to hold it right there, “You tried wrestling it?”
Buzz’s lack of response gave him the answer he wanted to continue laughing. Buzz sighed but his smile just grew.
“So you forgive me?” Buzz asked for confirmation
Woody straightened himself, “I think you’ve been through enough.” he smirks.
“C’mon, I’m tired,” Woody announced as he turned back and started walking.
Buzz raised a brow amusingly as he walked by Woody’s side, “You’re tired?”.
“Worrying about you is hard work,” Woody said which made Buzz let out a laugh.
They made it back safely to the tent without waking anyone up. Safe and sound within each other’s embrace. Under the never ending sky of burning stars that burned forever bright like their love.
“Forky, get back here!” Woody whispered after the spork that was waddling away to the bin again.
Every night Woody has to make sure Forky doesn’t run away and jump into that bin. It didn't matter if Woody moved the bin to the furthest corner of the room, Forky would still waddle his way back in there.
Buzz woke up to find Woody still keeping watch. He carefully sneaked out of the closet where Bonnie keeps all her toys and went to Woody’s side.
“Hey, Buzz..” Woody already called out to him, noticing Buzz’s green glow emitting from behind him.
Buzz smiled and sat down next to Woody, hand gently resting over Woody’s hand.
“Hey.” Buzz searched Woody’s expression, “Are you ok?”.
Woody shrugged, “I don’t know, Buzz..” he looked back at the bed making sure Forky stayed there, “I know you weren’t there when Andy was little but… I don’t remember it being this hard..”.
Buzz nodded, “Forky is new to this. He’s just inexperienced.” he stated in the hopes of easing Woody’s mind.
Woody’s eyes dropped to Buzz, “You think so?”.
“I mean, you remember how I was.. right?” Buzz smirked remembering his past self.
Woody snorted, “Oh, you were worse.” he pointed.
Buzz smiled, “Ok, ok, I wasn’t that bad-”
“No-no, what was it again?” Woody laughed as he intertwined their hands and gripped Buzz’s hand.
“You alone have information that could defeat Emperor Zurg’s plans?” Woody recounted the words which made Buzz groan.
“Ok, now that you put it like that, it sounds bad.” Buzz laughed.
Woody’s laughter died down slowly as he looked at Buzz, “Why are you up this late?”.
Buzz raised their intertwined hands close to themselves, “You weren’t there.” he said matter-of-factly.
Woody smiled, “I wish I could, but I have to stay here and watch-” his eyes stared at the empty spot in Bonnie’s embrace.
“Forky?”
Buzz and Woody let go and stood up. They looked around and spotted Forky jumping right into the bin.
“Forky!” Woody gritted his teeth, already about to go after the spork but Buzz dashed past him first.
Buzz hopped in the bin and pulled Forky out with ease.
“Let me go!” Forky squirmed but Buzz held Forky firmly.
“Thanks, Buzz..” Woody said tiredly as he took Forky from Buzz’s grip and put Forky back into the sleeping Bonnie’s embrace.
Woody jumped down from the bed, rubbing his face tiredly, “Ugh, I don’t know how long I can do this..” he sighed.
Buzz walked closer to Woody, “I can take the next watch. I’ll keep an eye on Forky for the rest of the night.” he stated.
“No, Buzz..” Woody waved Buzz off, “I can't do that to you-”
“I wasn’t asking.”
Woody looked back at Buzz. The familiar tone from the space ranger when he’s adamant. Woody turned fully to Buzz now.
“Buzz, c’mon-”
“It’s an order,” Buzz added with a small smile.
Woody exhaled a laugh, “Of course, another order from the space ranger.” he smiled.
“Ok, I’ll hit the hay..” Woody nodded and walked to the closet where the rest of the toys were resting.
“Goodnight.” Woody glanced back and tipped his hat.
“Goodnight,” Buzz responded as he took his position in making sure Forky remained in his place.
·༻⊹ ࣪ ˖ ꫂ ၴႅၴ ₊ ⊹༺·
The next day, Woody went right back to babysitting Forky. It was a Saturday, and all the toys were outside for a picnic. Bonnie had arranged the picnic to be like a restaurant with the toys sitting on their own picnic blankets with their plates and tea cups. Small papers written with their orders were scattered around with crayons only weighing them down from being blown away by the wind.
“Have some tea, Woody.” Bonnie poured some ‘tea’ into Woody’s cup.
Woody was seated with Buzz. Next to them on their own picnic blanket, Mr and Mrs Potatohead.
“You’d like more tea?” Bonnie asked Mrs Potatohead.
Bonnie bent down as if to hear her response, nodded and said “Yes, we do have bread. Here you go!” She placed a small plastic bread from her kitchen set onto the plate.
“What about you, Forky?” Bonnie asked as she bent down to listen to his order.
Forky’s seat was the closest to the kitchen. Sitting alone on his very own picnic blanket.
Bonnie nodded, “Yes, we do have cake.” she says as she goes to the kitchen set, takes out the plastic cake that comes with the set.
Bonnie placed it on Forky’s plate. It was bigger than Forky. Overtowering him even.
The playtime continued for a while before Bonnie’s mother called her to come in for lunch.
“Everyone continue dining, I’ll be back!” Bonnie called out the toys as she rushed inside for lunch.
After a minute of waiting, just to make sure, the toys awoke.
“C’mon, honey! Bread?” Mr Potatohead gestured to the bread, “Where’s the wine? Where’s my whiskey?? The beer???”.
“Honey, please.” She slapped his elbow, “The kids are here.” Mrs Potatohead pointed to the aliens whose picnic blanket was behind her.
Woody straightened his back, looked at Buzz then at the empty tea cup, “Sometimes I wish we could drink..”
“You and me both, sheriff.” Mr Potatohead chimed in from behind him.
Woody rolled his eyes, knowing their understanding of what drinking is is entirely different.
Buzz leaned in, “Well, the establishment has great exterior work.” he gestures to the layout.
“Honestly,” Dolly chimed in from the picnic blanket behind Buzz, “I feel like Bonnie would make a great chef.”.
“Yeah, remember that egg sandwich she made with mom?” Jessie who sat across from Dolly recounted.
“Yeah, well, we don’t really get to vote,” Hamm said as he pushed a plate of peas to Buttercup.
Woody’s gaze slowly went back to the plate with the cake. It still made no sense for a cake to be this big for a cooking set like this. Woody laughed thinking how Forky would be able to finish a cake twice his size.
Now that Woody’s thinking about it, Forky was really good today. He didn’t even try to run for it. Although, it is a little too quiet. Too quiet. Woody’s brows furrowed.
“Forky?” Woody called out which made the others quiet down.
No response.
Woody stood up now and moved closer to the table with the cake. He walked around the cake. No Forky.
“Where’s Forky?!”
“I- I don’t know! He was here a moment ago,”
“I’m sure he hasn’t made it far. He might still be around.”
“Guys.”
Everyone turned to Slinkey who was looking beyond the white picket fence.
“Isn’t today garbage day?”
The garbage truck slowly drove up the street in the distance. Woody’s eyes dart to the garbage bin outside, Forky must be in there. Woody ran towards the gate, Buzz right behind him. Buzz quickly boosted Woody over the fence.
Woody managed to reach the garbage bin while the garbage truck was still further away. Woody jumped up and opened the bin. Right in the middle of all the trash, Forky lay there.
“Forky! Come on, quickly!” Woody extended his hand.
Forky frowned, “No, this is where I belong!” he pushed himself deeper into the trash.
Woody looked back up, the garbage truck was closer now. Woody had to risk it. He jumped into the bin and grabbed Forky. Forky tried to pull away but Woody held him firmly.
“Let me go!” Forky yelled but Woody just held him tightly.
Woody jumped back up and tried to open the lid, but the whole bin shook. Woody and Forky fell back into the trash. The garbage man is moving the bin.
Outside, Buzz climbed over the fence and hid near the bushes. Woody wasn’t around. He looked and saw the garbage man pulling the bin. Memories of the garbage truck back at Sunnyside still haven't left him.
“No..”
Buzz ran stealthily through the bushes. He lifted a rock and using all his might, threw it at the garbage man. It hit the back of his head, making the guy flinch and drop the bin, letting the lid fall open. The garbageman groaned as both hands reached the back of his head.
Buzz moved in, he looked in the bin and saw Woody and Forky. Buzz grabbed Woody’s arm and pulled them into the bushes just in time before the garbage man noticed.
“Are you ok?” Buzz checked on Woody.
Woody blinked, “Y-yeah.. thanks, Buzz.”.
·༻⊹ ࣪ ˖ ꫂ ၴႅၴ ₊ ⊹༺·
“Oh, thank goodness, you found him!” Jessie exclaimed as Woody and Buzz came back with Forky.
Woody didn’t respond and walked past her. Jessie looked at Buzz worriedly but Buzz didn’t know what to say to reassure her.
Woody dropped Forky on the picnic blanket, “I wanna go back!” Forky complained.
“You can’t go back,” Woody stated
“I’m trash. I belong with trash. It makes sense.” Forky argued.
“You’re not trash, Forky. You’re a toy now.” Woody’s voice starts to tense up.
“Yes, I’m trash. And I’ll always be trash!” Forky flailed his arms.
“No, you’re not.” Woody raised his voice now, “You. Are. A. Toy. Whether you like it or not.”
Forky frowned and yelled “What if I don’t want to be a toy?!”
Woody stared, “Well too bad, buddy. You’re one now and you’re going to be there for your kid through thick and thin.”
“Why can’t you do it?!? I don’t want to do it!” the spork yelled.
“Woody…” Jessie tried to reach for Woody’s arm but Woody moved away and closer to Forky.
“Don’t you get it?! Your kid chose you. Therefore you need to be there for them. Support them. Stay with them. Love them.” Woody explained, “You’re too important! You can’t just walk away!”
Woody sighed, “It’s way better than being trash anyway.” he added.
Forky shifted on the picnic blanket, “Being trash is better.”
Woody’s eyes widened, “You little- WHY is it so hard for you to understand?!?”
“Woody.” Buzz tried to intervene but failed.
Woody started, voice firm and ardent, “You are a toy now. You’re going to be there for your kid no matter what. Doesn’t matter if you rip, bend, or break, you will be by your kids’ side no matter what. Everything you do is for THEM! Do you understand?!”
Forky backed up a little, “I-”
“You still don’t get it!” Woody exasperated, “WHY is this so hard for you to do?!? WHY can’t you do this for Andy?!?!”
Forky stared and bluntly asked, “Who’s Andy?”.
Woody’s eyes widened, realising what he said. All the toys stared at Woody now. Bonnie’s toys were shocked and confused, but those who were once Andy’s toys could only stare with worry.
“Bonnie…” Woody finally spoke, “I meant.. why can’t you do this for… Bonnie...” his voice now barely a whisper.
Woody exhaled, “I.. I’m going to.. go.” he said before walking away from the picnic blanket.
“Buzz,” Jessie turned to Buzz, “How long has he been like this?” she asked worriedly.
“For a while, Jessie.” Buzz now admitted, eyes following the sheriff as he stood at the corner of the lawn, “Ever since Forky arrived.”
Buzz almost instantly moved to check on Woody.
“Is he… alright?” Buttercup asked as he watched Buzz stand by Woody.
“Yeah, just... Woody hit the hardest after Andy left.” Hamm explained.
Trixie moved forward, “We should comfort him.” she says as she makes her way to Woody.
Everyone slowly moved to where Woody stood. Even Forky surprisingly. When Woody realised everyone was literally behind, he turned around. Bullseye trotted forward and leaned into Woody. Woody leaned back. Hugging Bullseye gently.
“I’m sorry, guys...” Woody started, “I shouldn’t have just yelled like that.” he patted Bullseye’s head.
Woody visibly relaxed. Buzz had a hand on Woody’s back to comfort and hold him up. Everyone stayed there for Woody. They didn’t need to say words, just being there was enough. Trixie moved closer, as if to ask something which she did.
“Woody, did Andy ever… make you feel like you were nothing?”, It seemed like she had this question on her mind for a while but didn’t know how to ask.
Woody looked at Trixie, Trixie thought she had crossed a line but then Woody laughed. He laughed, but not his usual laugh. A laugh that sounded the opposite.
“He..” Woody looked up at the blue sky with clusters of clouds passing by, “…he made me feel like… I was everything,”.
·༻⊹ ࣪ ˖ ꫂ ၴႅၴ ₊ ⊹༺·
Woody sat under the bed tonight. Hoping the darkness would calm him down and drown his thoughts, it did not seem to work. Woody pulled his hat lower, to try to block out more moonlight that was seeping under the bed. He hugged his knees to his chest and tried not to think about anything. But still, nothing worked. Woody sighed, hugging his knees closer. Then he realised his surroundings were glowing green. A familiar green.
“Buzz?” he looked to his side knowingly.
“Woody?” Buzz responded.
Woody smiled, “Are they… still talking about me?” he asked, head resting on his knees now as he looked at Buzz.
Buzz shook his head, “They’re all just... concerned.. about you.” he said after finding the right wording.
Woody leaned back, “They should be, Buzz..” he exhaled, “I.. I don’t know what’s wrong with me. I don’t know why I yelled like that..”.
Buzz listened like he always does.
“I.. I must’ve sounded crazy..” Woody said as he looked away.
“You’re not crazy,” Buzz said firmly.
“So then what am I then, Buzz?”
“You just miss him.” Buzz stated, “You miss him.” he repeated to make sure Woody heard him.
“You also miss him because he was your home. It’s understandable to miss home,” he added, which made Woody look back at Buzz.
Woody smiled and whispered, “Andy wasn’t the only thing I considered… home,”.
Buzz seemed to stare at Woody blankly like he didn’t understand what Woody had said.
“Another toy here,” he continued, “Reminds me so much of home.”.
“Who’s that?” Buzz asked so casually which made Woody roll his eyes.
Sometimes trying to flirt with the space ranger was no different to a log. Woody scooted closer to Buzz and leaned against him.
“You tell me, Buzz.” He said as he closed his eyes, now finally being able to rest.
Buzz stares for a moment in shock, but then he relaxes afterwards when he sees Woody finally relaxing. That's all Buzz wanted, for Woody to relax.
