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Ester Valentine

@the-spider-imp

RP & Ask blog ◼️ ◾️Mod is a minor ◾️ ◼️ Mods main account: @strange-case-of-geek-clown

174 posts

Intro post (last updated 11/20/25)

Hi! My name is Ester N. Valentine!! I’m also known as the Imp-Spider, dont tell my aunts. My nicknames are Est & Imp

I’m 17, almost 18.

I’m a local hero, being my universe’s spider-human. I have the usual spider-powers, but I also can camaflouge in shadows and see in the dark.

I live with my aunts, April Reilly and Lainy Reilly, as well as my sister, Koraline P. Valentine and my cousin, Jaxon K. Reilly. I work as an intern at Vermonica Magazine and go to Westhatten high. I play the bass as well!

If you have questions, just ask. Or feel free to hangout!!

They/it/she pronouns

Normal text for out of costume / not in own universe

Purple text for in costume and in my universe, as well as descriptions but smaller.

OOC UNDERCUT

#intro post #spider-sona #Imp rambles #marvel rp #rp blog #oc rp #open rp

<<A person wearing a yellow-brown hoodie with spider symbol drawn in black spray painted on the front and black seams fotming web designs, black, slightly ripped jeans and a brown-black gas mask is sat on a lamp-post.>>

@funnel-weaving-prick

Ester swung over and noticed the fellow spider. Who they are and what they were doing in their dimension, she would soon find out. Ester swung over and landed on a wall next to the lamp post.

Hey Black and Yellow, Who are you, exactly?

funnel-weaving-prick

<<He glanced over to Ester, curiosity behind his gas mask and caltrops in his hand.>>

Nobody, really, the folks back home call me the Funnelweaver seein as that's the kinda spider I seem to be.

Nice to meet you, Funnel. I’m Spider-imp. It’s a lame ass name compared to yours.

funnel-weaving-prick

Eh, it's got charm.

Thanks. So, what brings you to my side of the multiverse?

funnel-weaving-prick

Wunna my villians ended up here somehow. Gotta get 'im back to my world.

Oh what? I haven’t seen anything. Do you want me to help?

<<A person wearing a yellow-brown hoodie with spider symbol drawn in black spray painted on the front and black seams fotming web designs, black, slightly ripped jeans and a brown-black gas mask is sat on a lamp-post.>>

@funnel-weaving-prick

Ester swung over and noticed the fellow spider. Who they are and what they were doing in their dimension, she would soon find out. Ester swung over and landed on a wall next to the lamp post.

Hey Black and Yellow, Who are you, exactly?

funnel-weaving-prick

<<He glanced over to Ester, curiosity behind his gas mask and caltrops in his hand.>>

Nobody, really, the folks back home call me the Funnelweaver seein as that's the kinda spider I seem to be.

Nice to meet you, Funnel. I’m Spider-imp. It’s a lame ass name compared to yours.

funnel-weaving-prick

Eh, it's got charm.

Thanks. So, what brings you to my side of the multiverse?

<<A person wearing a yellow-brown hoodie with spider symbol drawn in black spray painted on the front and black seams fotming web designs, black, slightly ripped jeans and a brown-black gas mask is sat on a lamp-post.>>

@funnel-weaving-prick

Ester swung over and noticed the fellow spider. Who they are and what they were doing in their dimension, she would soon find out. Ester swung over and landed on a wall next to the lamp post.

Hey Black and Yellow, Who are you, exactly?

funnel-weaving-prick

<<He glanced over to Ester, curiosity behind his gas mask and caltrops in his hand.>>

Nobody, really, the folks back home call me the Funnelweaver seein as that's the kinda spider I seem to be.

Nice to meet you, Funnel. I’m Spider-imp. It’s a lame ass name compared to yours.

<<A person wearing a yellow-brown hoodie with spider symbol drawn in black spray painted on the front and black seams fotming web designs, black, slightly ripped jeans and a brown-black gas mask is sat on a lamp-post.>>

@funnel-weaving-prick

Ester swung over and noticed the fellow spider. Who they are and what they were doing in their dimension, she would soon find out. Ester swung over and landed on a wall next to the lamp post.

Hey Black and Yellow, Who are you, exactly?

#imp rambles #marvel rp #rp blog #spiderman rp #oc rp

There was a knock on Ester's window. Cass was outside. Their hair was shorter than the last time they spoke to Ester, their chest flatter, their eyes red with dark circles around them, but they were smiling. They looked so much more like Norman than they used to.

@first-born-osborn

Hm? Cass! How are you? You haven’t text me in like a million years.

They opened the window wider, now getting a better look at her dear friend.

You look… different. I like it!

They practically fell into their room. There was a green liquid smudged on their lips. Their voice was deeper when they spoke, just enough to be immediately noticeable.

Hey... sorry to show up unannounced.

You’re fine! You know this place is always a safe place for y-…What is on your lips? Did you drink something?

Oh lord above please don’t be what I think it is.

Uh—

They touched their fingers to their lips and looked at them, licking the rest off their lips without much more than a panicked thought.

Just some tests. No big deal.

Cass what the hell?! What have you been doing?!

They sit close to their friend, panic setting in. Please don’t tell me that they were doing something stupid.

I... uh... you know about the whole Goblin thing and Honey and all that, right? Well... I'm continuing those tests.

Wh- Cass are you kidding me? Do you know how dangerous it is? You’ve seen what it does to your dad. I don’t want anything bad to happen to you!

Ester grabbed a towel and helped wipe the green liquid away. She sighed, thinking to themself.

…Why are you doing this?

I need answers, Est! I need to know what it will do if I don't quit like my father did.

They took the towel from Ester to get it themself and tugged their sleeve down to their palm

Your father became a madman, Cass. It’s dangerous! Look at you!

They stood up, throwing their arms in the air.

My father is not mad! This is controlled, Ester.

[...]

What do you mean, "Look at me?"

You’re right, you’re right, I’m sorry…. But I doubt it’s controlled, considering you’re coughing up mysterious green liquids.

They tilted her head.

What’s Honey saying this time?

The tests are perfectly safe! It's not some mysterious green liquid. I believe it is blood. And it doesn't matter what Honey said.

Bl- Cass! Your blood isn’t supposed to be green. This is definitely not as safe as you think they are!

They took a deep breath.

I’m sorry, I’m just… nervous for you…

...

Hey, if it goes green, and not in the good way, I'll tell my dad, alright? I just... this could be massive if it works. Think about it, Est. Imagine the possibilities.

I’d like to, Cass. But the sound of it just… I don’t like the sound of all this. Do you understand my concern?

If I'm honest, no. It hasn't hurt me yet, has it? None of my experiments have gone terribly wrong. And anyway, risks are part of laboratory science.

Ester huffed, reaching a hand out to be held, begging to be comforted.

I’ll believe you for now.

He took their hand and sat back down, frowning.

I'm completely fine, Est. I'll be fine. I haven't gone on a murderous, vengeful rampage, have I?

Yet.

Eater tried to laugh. They leaned on Cass’ shoulder.

…You better talk to your dad about this. And keep me updated.

Are you kidding?

He huffed, leaning back on his free hand.

He can't know. He'll shut it down out of paranoia to "protect me from myself."

Well duh, what you’re doing is dangerous!

They kept her head on his shoulder, squeezing their hand.

Maybe you should listen… even if it’s in the name of science… just saying.

It's too late for me to turn back, Ester.

They fiddled with his headphones.

[...]

He furrowed his brow.

I know… I just care about you a lot.

She sighs, looking up.

What’s wrong? Did I say something?

Mm. Not you. Honey. He's just telling me I should try again.

I don’t know how to think about that, Cass. I guess I’d prefer you’d do this under supervision… but Honey?

You got a problem with Honey?

No! Of course not…. I’m just, I dunno, a bit paranoid? You know how I am.

You always turn to that, hmm. Paranoia. It's getting harder and harder to believe you're not afraid of me.

… Heyyy Honey…

Ester moved up from lying on his shoulder.

I’m not scared at all! Obviously. I’m just skittish around people in general. Cass has seen me, I’m sure you have to.

I'm sure.

He quietly hummed the tune of The Itsy Bitsy Spider.

…What brings you out to visit me? Was it mentioning you or is there something else?

They tried to ignore the song. It was the nursery rhyme, maybe it was a different song with the same tune, like twinkle twinkle little star and the ABCS.

Oh, you know... when I heard you trying to convince Cassius to stop the tests, I had to do something.

The tests are dangerous, Honey. It’s hurting him and also your body. I can just.. tell.

We're just fine. True, there are some... side effects, but it's nothing we can't handle.

…I’m going to trust you both on this. But I swear if anything bad happens beyond this I will be extremely upset… I don’t want to see Cass getting hurt. You too, I guess.

How nice it is to know you care about me.

He coughed, quickly grabbing a cloth from his pocket and lifting it to his mouth, staining it green.

C- Honey! You seriously think coughing up green is okay?! Is it getting worse?

They looked down at the cloth.

I'll admit, that isn't ideal. But it's just one little side effect. It doesn't matter that there's more than last time.

Honey, Hon, I can call you Hon, right? You can be serious. Clearly this is effecting your health!

I'm completely serious. I'll talk to Norman if I must, but... I...

For the first time since they arrived, they looked nervous.

I really would rather not.

Why don’t either of you want to talk to Norman? Because he’ll talk you out of continuing his work? Talk you two out of doing something that will end up killing you or worse?

Deep breaths.

Sorry…

Because that "cure" those weird spider guys from another universe gave him didn't do the job, alright?! I don't want to put him under any more stress than he's already under with Oscorp and Gobby. Otto can only help so much. And before you ask, no, he doesn't know about this either...

However...

He felt his shoulder, finding a backpack strap and smiling. He pulled his bag into his lap and opened it, looking for a moment before producing a green-stained notebook. Honey and Cass' ability to work together seemed to have improved.

His research could prove to be useful...

You have to tell someone! I’m sorry that the other guys didn’t help like they thought they did but there’s gotta be another way besides experimenting on yourself! You have to get some help.

They noticed the bag, blinking and looking up at Cass and Honey’s face, her eyes widening, spider sense going off.

I don’t like that look on your face… do I dare ask what you’re looking at?

He flipped through several pages, their smile growing wider.

I have notes from one of those spider guys. Everything he learned about my father, the performance enhancers, all of it, and Otto's corrections and notes. I've been using them for a while, but I hadn't thought... I need to go.

He couldn't help but laugh to themself.

Wh- You’re going to leave? Now!?

Esters mind was pounding at her skull. They knew whatever was going to happen was bad. She tried to stop them, convince them, now she had to pray that she wouldn’t have to do anything.

Well, of course I—

He frowned, noticing Ester's panic. When the light caught their eyes, they almost looked green rather than brown.

You really don't want me to follow through with this, do you? It's completely controlled.

I just want you to be safe, Cass… you’re my best friend.

If I get my father to approve the tests, will you quit worrying?

[...]

He grabbed his wrist tightly.

… It will help, yes.

Their eyes darted to his wrists, looking back up with worry and comfort in her eyes.

I'll talk to him and Otto... soon. Alright? Everything will be fine.

He opened his arms for a hug.

Thank you.

She leaned in, squeezing them and resting their head on his shoulder.

I love you a lot, dude. I don’t want you hurting yourself…

I love you, too, Est. I won't hurt myself.

He tried again to pull his sleeve down over his wrist and grumbled when it didn't stay.

Dang it, this fit me fine last week...

Ester nuzzled her nose into the crook of their neck. Their eyes noticed Cass messing with his sleeve.

Are you growing out of your clothes?

It would seem I am.

He shook his head in mild disappointment and began to rub Ester's back gently, trying to distract them from everything that just happened.

It's not unheard of to have a growth spurt at my age.

You’re going to be too tall for me to tease.

Ester laughed quietly, their fingers curling around the fabric of Cass’ shirt, completely melting into her friend.

I'm sure you'll find a way.

He leaned back, blinking slowly. He felt like he should be at home, but he wanted to be there for Ester after what he did.

You always find a way to tease.

Good… promise me we will stay like this forever.

She looked towards Cass.

Close friends like this…

Ester notices his sluggishness.

…You don’t have to stay.

... forever is a really long time, Est.

He yawned, moving their head back where it was.

I'm just a bit out of it. I'm alright.

If you feel like you need to rest you can sleep over. My aunts don’t mind.

Nah, I don't need my dad freaking out. But thank you for the offer, and thank you for understanding.

He gave her a very tight squeeze of a hug

Besides, I have to be in the lab early tomorrow.

Alright…. Does that mean you have to go soon?

Ester continued to curl up in the embrace, feeling safe and comforted in his arms, offering as much support she could as well.

He sighed, carefully fishing his phone out of his pocket without really letting go of Ester.

I guess I could let my dad know where I am. He'll probably want proof, but if I give it to him, I'm sure he'll be fine.

Good. Because I don’t want this moment to end.

They bury herself against Cass more and more, basically becoming a weighted blanket for him.

He called Norman and waited for him to answer, wrapping his arm around their shoulders.

Hey, da- yes, I'm okay.

[...]

Yes, I'm somewhere safe. Dad, I'm with Ester. You... yes, dad. Okay, let me— dad, calm down. I'm not lying. I... fine.

He pulled the phone away from himself

He wants to talk to you, if that's alright.

Of course.

Ester takes the phone, sitting up and putting the phone to her ear.

Hey Norman!

They say in a friendly tone.

Ester! I'm so sorry to bother you. Otto and I were worried when Cass didn't come home, and with how he's been behaving recently, we needed to be sure he wasn't lying to us. He hasn't hurt you, has he?

Hurting me? No of course not. We’ve just been talking all night. He’s been fine.

They debated on telling Norman and Otto about the throwing up blood; green blood. Best not, just in case. Esters mind flashes to the green goblin and shutters. She wonders how far the experiments Cass and Honey have been doing were working out.

How has he been acting at home, exactly?

Cass narrowed his eyes but stopped himself from grabbing the phone.

Well, he's hardly been home, but when he has been, he's been withdrawn, unfocused, erratic—

Secretive. Irritable. Like the average teenager.

Not like Cass, Otto. Not like Cass.

…. Do you want me to talk about it with him?

She covers her mouth and whispers into the phone.

No, it isn't your job to fix my poor parent—

We appreciate the offer, Ester. You're very kind. Thank you for being such a good friend to Cass. If you would like to talk with him, you are welcome to. Norman and I will speak with him when he gets home either way.

Alright I'm here anytime. Ready to help whatever way I can. Cass is awesome so I’m sure everything is going to be alright…

They reached over and hung up the phone, taking it out of Ester's hand.

I think I should go.

Cass? Is everything okay? I’m sorry I didn’t mean to overstep anything.

I won't let them make you a tool they use to try and fix us. Now, I should go. I need to have a discussion with my father.

You don’t need fixed! I’m not gonna be manipulated by them! Look whatever they said doesn’t matter. Please, don’t get hurt.

He stood up, not really caring if he knocked Ester off of them, and walked to the window.

This is a risk I have to take. I'm sorry you don't seem to understand that.

I… fine. Call me if it gets messy. And tell me when you get home! I don’t want you to get hurt. Or worse.

I'm not going home yet. I'll see you later.

Wha- where are you going?! Cass- Hon- whoever it is you have to talk to me! Where are you going?!

Oscorp.

They felt around in their pocket for his badge.

Even if you don't see why, I have to do this.

Why?! Your experiments can wait, can’t they?! Why are you in such a rush with this?!

It doesn't matter!

He stepped forward, lifting a hand up for emphasis. His sleeve moved again, revealing dark veins in his wrists that likely went up his arm. He didn't seem to notice.

Her mind lead them to stare at his wrist. She covered her mouth, audibly gasping, on the verge of tears. It was so much worse than they thought.

What are you...

Shit. It's not what it looks like. It's just a minor side effect. It'll be fine.

He reached out to touch their shoulder but paused, thinking better of it.

But what if you’re not fine?! What if then?!

Ester choked.

Hey, no, don't think like that, Est.

He wrapped his arms around her, trying to be reassuring.

Everything will be fine. I have it under control. It isn't as bad as it looks.

Ester sobbed, squeezing him closer and closer.

You better be in as much control as you say you are…

He cupped the back of Ester's head, hiding his face in their hair.

I'm as in control as I can be.

Don’t die on me.

She exhaled a breath of air. She laid her head on his chest, softly weeping.

...

I'm right here. I'm not going anywhere.

Good…

Ester’s sniffles soon calmed

You’re too important.

He rolled his eyes.

Please. Me? Important? Ha! You'd be fine without me if you really tried. You don't need me.

[...]

Sorry. That was probably the wrong thing to say. But it's true. You'd be completely fine without me.

Cass I swear…

She huffed.

Don’t do this to me.

Est, we're both changing. I can't go back to how I was before. I'm not dying, but I am changing. You realize that, right?

Yes, I do. I understand change is important, it’s a part of growing up. But I don’t think self experimentation is usually part of the process.

I'd argue that self experimentation is almost a requirement in the teen years.

He smiled, trying to lighten the mood just a bit.

Oh come on.. You know what I mean.

She couldn’t help but quietly chuckle.

Seriously though, I need to finish what I've started.

… Fine. But if you start hurting and not telling somebody about it, I will slap you.

I'll be fine.

He quickly grabbed the cloth again and turned away to cough violently into it.

Are ya sure about that?

He sighed.

Do you want complete honesty? The truth isn't pretty.

… Yeah.

He stepped back and took a deep breath in before slipping his shirt over his head. His torso was covered in patches of yellowish-green skin and red, irritated marks. His veins were more pronounced, and there were bruises covering his arms.

I told you it wasn't pretty.

Cass…

Ester covered her mouth, eventually reading out and tracing her hands over his shoulder.

God damn it…. Why?

He flinched at the touch.

I had to know, Ester. Now it's too late to turn back.

… Tell your dad and Otto about it. Please.

She said with watery eyes.

I can't, Ester! Dad's in bad enough shape as is! This would crush him!

But you’re in pain! It’s bad. Really bad! You have to talk to one of them! Otto, since you refuse to talk to your father.

I'll talk to them later. It's really not as bad as it looks, though.

Caaasss!

Ester stared at his torso, occasionally glancing back up at his face.

Please, when you leave, go home. Show them- this! This needs to be watched and taken care of.

I'm watching it. I'm taking care of it.

He went to scratch at an irritated spot on his neck but stopped.

Are you sure? It looks bad. Real bad.

It only hurts sometimes. It'll get better.

I swear if you’re lying to me, Cass…

Could you actually help us cover it up? You're good at makeup, right?

Only if you tell someone about this later.

She opened a drawer in their desk.

I promise I will tell someone. Maybe Peter.

He blushed.

Thanks.

Ooo, Peter, huh?

She teased, putting the foundation on a sponge brush, lightly tapping it onto Cass’ abdomen.

Of course.

Yeah, yeah. Tease all you want.

He bit his hand to stop himself from making any pained sounds.

I want to hear more about how much your obsessed with him. Ester worked on covering Cass’ skin, trying to find a specific shade from her palettes that would work for him.

Boy you are as pale as a ghost.

I'm not obsessed! I just... think he's cute. And sweet. And funny...

He frowned.

Sorry. I've been cooped up in the lab for the better part of three months.

You can do better than him. But it sounds like you’re hooked on him.

Ester lightly brushed the spot she was working on.

I know, I’m not judging. though this makeup makes you look a bit more orange for some reason. Am I really that tanned?

Wait, I have... uh...

He dug through his bag before pulling out a very pale foundation and some concealer.

I had no idea what I was getting.

Oh perfect. Look at you go, buying makeup. Never thought I’d see the day.

She takes the makeup from him and starts wiping off the layers of powder and liquid she has been trying to work with before dabbing it onto his skin.

Is it a better match? I really had no clue what I was doing.

He dug his nails into his palms to ignore the pain he felt from his skin being touched.

So much better. You did great.

Ester looks down at his hands, their fingers dancing across Cass’ knuckle.

Am I hurting you?

No, you're helping me cover this up.

He forced himself to smile.

I really appreciate you doing this for me.

Of course.

They could still sense his pain, trying to be as gentle as possible.

Do you want to talk with me to try and distract yourself? Or I can talk. Whatever helps.

I... ow, okay, maybe we should just cover the places that my shirt won't cover entirely. Sorry. We can talk if you—

He grabbed his side, just below his ribcage and winced.

If you want.

I’m just trying to distract you. Talking always distracts me from pain or stress.

Ester sat the brushes down and handed Cass’ shirt to him.

Thanks.

He tugged it on and kept his eyes closed. It shouldn't hurt this bad. He knows it shouldn't hurt this bad. But he can't admit that.

I think it's mostly my neck and arms that are visible.

Alright. Where shall I start first?

She spoke while in the middle of cleaning her makeup brushes.

I think the arms will hurt less.

He mentally smacked himself for admitting it hurt.

That’s what I thought.

Ester huffed again. They began to lightly apply makeup from the wrists up, pausing, the nearest to the shoulder and down, then meeting in the middle.

How’s it look?

Perfect. Thank you, Ester. You're an angel for helping me with this. I owe you.

He smiled at his arm. He hadn't seen it normal for months. It was refreshing to feel somewhat whole

It’s nothing! I’m not even done yet.

Ester grinned ear to ear, happy to see their best friend looking at peace for the first time since he got here.

You owe me nothing.

It's not nothing. I haven't felt like myself for months. At least now I look like me. And it's thanks to you.

Awww, you’re making me blush.

She switches sides and starts on his other arm

… I’m a bit curious… Is the experiments the only reason you haven’t been talking to me? Or responding to my texts?

They're.. ah, they're the main reason, yeah.

He patted the side of his leg repeatedly with the already finished hand.

Was there something else?

She murmured something to herself, focusing on the makeup.

I also just wanted to keep you away from this. To keep you safe. And Honey—

[...]

what? Seriously? Right now? Okay. And Henry didn't trust you.

You know you can always talk to me, Cass.

She switches brushes.

Also I’ve given Henry a chance, or at least tried, why doesn’t he like me?! Sure I can be a bit tense around him but I know he’s no real threat. He’s a good person.

He smirked.

You're naive.

I know there’s more than that, Henry.

She glanced up at his smirk and rolled their eyes.

Speak up.

He grabbed her wrist and looked them in the eyes.

You're pathetic and weak. You think we should hide ourselves. Quit before we reach our true potential.

Ester gasped, attempting to pull their wrist back.

What are you talking about?!

You wanted us to stop. Your unnecessary concern and attachment is the anchor holding us back.

His grip tightened.

And you continue to hold us back. We're so close.

His voice took on a high, mocking tone

But no! Ester is concerned, so we have to stop.

You're making him, us, weak.

Henry let me go!-

She resisted the urge to pull back, to defend themself and fight, but Ester already had a slight feeling that Henry was onto them.

Why should I?

He leaned in closer.

Give me one good reason.

Henry I know you’re not a bad person, please! You’re a bit chaotic but I know you would never hurt me! You would never hurt anybody!

Ester whimpered, searching his face for any sign of emotion.

He slapped her before grabbing their jaw tight. His tone is cold and final.

You don't know us. You don't know Cassius, and you most certainly don't know me.

He held on tighter, putting their other hand on their shoulder and pushing her down.

Quit pretending you do.

They hold her cheek, staring up at Henry in terror. Oh god. Oh no it was so much worse. How could this night escalate more?..

Henry we can talk about this! Stop you’re hurting me!

That's the point.

He shoved them to the ground and walked to the window.

Henry, don’t go! We can talk about this!

There was a knock on Ester's window. Cass was outside. Their hair was shorter than the last time they spoke to Ester, their chest flatter, their eyes red with dark circles around them, but they were smiling. They looked so much more like Norman than they used to.

@first-born-osborn

Hm? Cass! How are you? You haven’t text me in like a million years.

They opened the window wider, now getting a better look at her dear friend.

You look… different. I like it!

They practically fell into their room. There was a green liquid smudged on their lips. Their voice was deeper when they spoke, just enough to be immediately noticeable.

Hey... sorry to show up unannounced.

You’re fine! You know this place is always a safe place for y-…What is on your lips? Did you drink something?

Oh lord above please don’t be what I think it is.

Uh—

They touched their fingers to their lips and looked at them, licking the rest off their lips without much more than a panicked thought.

Just some tests. No big deal.

Cass what the hell?! What have you been doing?!

They sit close to their friend, panic setting in. Please don’t tell me that they were doing something stupid.

I... uh... you know about the whole Goblin thing and Honey and all that, right? Well... I'm continuing those tests.

Wh- Cass are you kidding me? Do you know how dangerous it is? You’ve seen what it does to your dad. I don’t want anything bad to happen to you!

Ester grabbed a towel and helped wipe the green liquid away. She sighed, thinking to themself.

…Why are you doing this?

I need answers, Est! I need to know what it will do if I don't quit like my father did.

They took the towel from Ester to get it themself and tugged their sleeve down to their palm

Your father became a madman, Cass. It’s dangerous! Look at you!

They stood up, throwing their arms in the air.

My father is not mad! This is controlled, Ester.

[...]

What do you mean, "Look at me?"

You’re right, you’re right, I’m sorry…. But I doubt it’s controlled, considering you’re coughing up mysterious green liquids.

They tilted her head.

What’s Honey saying this time?

The tests are perfectly safe! It's not some mysterious green liquid. I believe it is blood. And it doesn't matter what Honey said.

Bl- Cass! Your blood isn’t supposed to be green. This is definitely not as safe as you think they are!

They took a deep breath.

I’m sorry, I’m just… nervous for you…

...

Hey, if it goes green, and not in the good way, I'll tell my dad, alright? I just... this could be massive if it works. Think about it, Est. Imagine the possibilities.

I’d like to, Cass. But the sound of it just… I don’t like the sound of all this. Do you understand my concern?

If I'm honest, no. It hasn't hurt me yet, has it? None of my experiments have gone terribly wrong. And anyway, risks are part of laboratory science.

Ester huffed, reaching a hand out to be held, begging to be comforted.

I’ll believe you for now.

He took their hand and sat back down, frowning.

I'm completely fine, Est. I'll be fine. I haven't gone on a murderous, vengeful rampage, have I?

Yet.

Eater tried to laugh. They leaned on Cass’ shoulder.

…You better talk to your dad about this. And keep me updated.

Are you kidding?

He huffed, leaning back on his free hand.

He can't know. He'll shut it down out of paranoia to "protect me from myself."

Well duh, what you’re doing is dangerous!

They kept her head on his shoulder, squeezing their hand.

Maybe you should listen… even if it’s in the name of science… just saying.

It's too late for me to turn back, Ester.

They fiddled with his headphones.

[...]

He furrowed his brow.

I know… I just care about you a lot.

She sighs, looking up.

What’s wrong? Did I say something?

Mm. Not you. Honey. He's just telling me I should try again.

I don’t know how to think about that, Cass. I guess I’d prefer you’d do this under supervision… but Honey?

You got a problem with Honey?

No! Of course not…. I’m just, I dunno, a bit paranoid? You know how I am.

You always turn to that, hmm. Paranoia. It's getting harder and harder to believe you're not afraid of me.

… Heyyy Honey…

Ester moved up from lying on his shoulder.

I’m not scared at all! Obviously. I’m just skittish around people in general. Cass has seen me, I’m sure you have to.

I'm sure.

He quietly hummed the tune of The Itsy Bitsy Spider.

…What brings you out to visit me? Was it mentioning you or is there something else?

They tried to ignore the song. It was the nursery rhyme, maybe it was a different song with the same tune, like twinkle twinkle little star and the ABCS.

Oh, you know... when I heard you trying to convince Cassius to stop the tests, I had to do something.

The tests are dangerous, Honey. It’s hurting him and also your body. I can just.. tell.

We're just fine. True, there are some... side effects, but it's nothing we can't handle.

…I’m going to trust you both on this. But I swear if anything bad happens beyond this I will be extremely upset… I don’t want to see Cass getting hurt. You too, I guess.

How nice it is to know you care about me.

He coughed, quickly grabbing a cloth from his pocket and lifting it to his mouth, staining it green.

C- Honey! You seriously think coughing up green is okay?! Is it getting worse?

They looked down at the cloth.

I'll admit, that isn't ideal. But it's just one little side effect. It doesn't matter that there's more than last time.

Honey, Hon, I can call you Hon, right? You can be serious. Clearly this is effecting your health!

I'm completely serious. I'll talk to Norman if I must, but... I...

For the first time since they arrived, they looked nervous.

I really would rather not.

Why don’t either of you want to talk to Norman? Because he’ll talk you out of continuing his work? Talk you two out of doing something that will end up killing you or worse?

Deep breaths.

Sorry…

Because that "cure" those weird spider guys from another universe gave him didn't do the job, alright?! I don't want to put him under any more stress than he's already under with Oscorp and Gobby. Otto can only help so much. And before you ask, no, he doesn't know about this either...

However...

He felt his shoulder, finding a backpack strap and smiling. He pulled his bag into his lap and opened it, looking for a moment before producing a green-stained notebook. Honey and Cass' ability to work together seemed to have improved.

His research could prove to be useful...

You have to tell someone! I’m sorry that the other guys didn’t help like they thought they did but there’s gotta be another way besides experimenting on yourself! You have to get some help.

They noticed the bag, blinking and looking up at Cass and Honey’s face, her eyes widening, spider sense going off.

I don’t like that look on your face… do I dare ask what you’re looking at?

He flipped through several pages, their smile growing wider.

I have notes from one of those spider guys. Everything he learned about my father, the performance enhancers, all of it, and Otto's corrections and notes. I've been using them for a while, but I hadn't thought... I need to go.

He couldn't help but laugh to themself.

Wh- You’re going to leave? Now!?

Esters mind was pounding at her skull. They knew whatever was going to happen was bad. She tried to stop them, convince them, now she had to pray that she wouldn’t have to do anything.

Well, of course I—

He frowned, noticing Ester's panic. When the light caught their eyes, they almost looked green rather than brown.

You really don't want me to follow through with this, do you? It's completely controlled.

I just want you to be safe, Cass… you’re my best friend.

If I get my father to approve the tests, will you quit worrying?

[...]

He grabbed his wrist tightly.

… It will help, yes.

Their eyes darted to his wrists, looking back up with worry and comfort in her eyes.

I'll talk to him and Otto... soon. Alright? Everything will be fine.

He opened his arms for a hug.

Thank you.

She leaned in, squeezing them and resting their head on his shoulder.

I love you a lot, dude. I don’t want you hurting yourself…

I love you, too, Est. I won't hurt myself.

He tried again to pull his sleeve down over his wrist and grumbled when it didn't stay.

Dang it, this fit me fine last week...

Ester nuzzled her nose into the crook of their neck. Their eyes noticed Cass messing with his sleeve.

Are you growing out of your clothes?

It would seem I am.

He shook his head in mild disappointment and began to rub Ester's back gently, trying to distract them from everything that just happened.

It's not unheard of to have a growth spurt at my age.

You’re going to be too tall for me to tease.

Ester laughed quietly, their fingers curling around the fabric of Cass’ shirt, completely melting into her friend.

I'm sure you'll find a way.

He leaned back, blinking slowly. He felt like he should be at home, but he wanted to be there for Ester after what he did.

You always find a way to tease.

Good… promise me we will stay like this forever.

She looked towards Cass.

Close friends like this…

Ester notices his sluggishness.

…You don’t have to stay.

... forever is a really long time, Est.

He yawned, moving their head back where it was.

I'm just a bit out of it. I'm alright.

If you feel like you need to rest you can sleep over. My aunts don’t mind.

Nah, I don't need my dad freaking out. But thank you for the offer, and thank you for understanding.

He gave her a very tight squeeze of a hug

Besides, I have to be in the lab early tomorrow.

Alright…. Does that mean you have to go soon?

Ester continued to curl up in the embrace, feeling safe and comforted in his arms, offering as much support she could as well.

He sighed, carefully fishing his phone out of his pocket without really letting go of Ester.

I guess I could let my dad know where I am. He'll probably want proof, but if I give it to him, I'm sure he'll be fine.

Good. Because I don’t want this moment to end.

They bury herself against Cass more and more, basically becoming a weighted blanket for him.

He called Norman and waited for him to answer, wrapping his arm around their shoulders.

Hey, da- yes, I'm okay.

[...]

Yes, I'm somewhere safe. Dad, I'm with Ester. You... yes, dad. Okay, let me— dad, calm down. I'm not lying. I... fine.

He pulled the phone away from himself

He wants to talk to you, if that's alright.

Of course.

Ester takes the phone, sitting up and putting the phone to her ear.

Hey Norman!

They say in a friendly tone.

Ester! I'm so sorry to bother you. Otto and I were worried when Cass didn't come home, and with how he's been behaving recently, we needed to be sure he wasn't lying to us. He hasn't hurt you, has he?

Hurting me? No of course not. We’ve just been talking all night. He’s been fine.

They debated on telling Norman and Otto about the throwing up blood; green blood. Best not, just in case. Esters mind flashes to the green goblin and shutters. She wonders how far the experiments Cass and Honey have been doing were working out.

How has he been acting at home, exactly?

Cass narrowed his eyes but stopped himself from grabbing the phone.

Well, he's hardly been home, but when he has been, he's been withdrawn, unfocused, erratic—

Secretive. Irritable. Like the average teenager.

Not like Cass, Otto. Not like Cass.

…. Do you want me to talk about it with him?

She covers her mouth and whispers into the phone.

No, it isn't your job to fix my poor parent—

We appreciate the offer, Ester. You're very kind. Thank you for being such a good friend to Cass. If you would like to talk with him, you are welcome to. Norman and I will speak with him when he gets home either way.

Alright I'm here anytime. Ready to help whatever way I can. Cass is awesome so I’m sure everything is going to be alright…

They reached over and hung up the phone, taking it out of Ester's hand.

I think I should go.

Cass? Is everything okay? I’m sorry I didn’t mean to overstep anything.

I won't let them make you a tool they use to try and fix us. Now, I should go. I need to have a discussion with my father.

You don’t need fixed! I’m not gonna be manipulated by them! Look whatever they said doesn’t matter. Please, don’t get hurt.

He stood up, not really caring if he knocked Ester off of them, and walked to the window.

This is a risk I have to take. I'm sorry you don't seem to understand that.

I… fine. Call me if it gets messy. And tell me when you get home! I don’t want you to get hurt. Or worse.

I'm not going home yet. I'll see you later.

Wha- where are you going?! Cass- Hon- whoever it is you have to talk to me! Where are you going?!

Oscorp.

They felt around in their pocket for his badge.

Even if you don't see why, I have to do this.

Why?! Your experiments can wait, can’t they?! Why are you in such a rush with this?!

It doesn't matter!

He stepped forward, lifting a hand up for emphasis. His sleeve moved again, revealing dark veins in his wrists that likely went up his arm. He didn't seem to notice.

Her mind lead them to stare at his wrist. She covered her mouth, audibly gasping, on the verge of tears. It was so much worse than they thought.

What are you...

Shit. It's not what it looks like. It's just a minor side effect. It'll be fine.

He reached out to touch their shoulder but paused, thinking better of it.

But what if you’re not fine?! What if then?!

Ester choked.

Hey, no, don't think like that, Est.

He wrapped his arms around her, trying to be reassuring.

Everything will be fine. I have it under control. It isn't as bad as it looks.

Ester sobbed, squeezing him closer and closer.

You better be in as much control as you say you are…

He cupped the back of Ester's head, hiding his face in their hair.

I'm as in control as I can be.

Don’t die on me.

She exhaled a breath of air. She laid her head on his chest, softly weeping.

...

I'm right here. I'm not going anywhere.

Good…

Ester’s sniffles soon calmed

You’re too important.

He rolled his eyes.

Please. Me? Important? Ha! You'd be fine without me if you really tried. You don't need me.

[...]

Sorry. That was probably the wrong thing to say. But it's true. You'd be completely fine without me.

Cass I swear…

She huffed.

Don’t do this to me.

Est, we're both changing. I can't go back to how I was before. I'm not dying, but I am changing. You realize that, right?

Yes, I do. I understand change is important, it’s a part of growing up. But I don’t think self experimentation is usually part of the process.

I'd argue that self experimentation is almost a requirement in the teen years.

He smiled, trying to lighten the mood just a bit.

Oh come on.. You know what I mean.

She couldn’t help but quietly chuckle.

Seriously though, I need to finish what I've started.

… Fine. But if you start hurting and not telling somebody about it, I will slap you.

I'll be fine.

He quickly grabbed the cloth again and turned away to cough violently into it.

Are ya sure about that?

He sighed.

Do you want complete honesty? The truth isn't pretty.

… Yeah.

He stepped back and took a deep breath in before slipping his shirt over his head. His torso was covered in patches of yellowish-green skin and red, irritated marks. His veins were more pronounced, and there were bruises covering his arms.

I told you it wasn't pretty.

Cass…

Ester covered her mouth, eventually reading out and tracing her hands over his shoulder.

God damn it…. Why?

He flinched at the touch.

I had to know, Ester. Now it's too late to turn back.

… Tell your dad and Otto about it. Please.

She said with watery eyes.

I can't, Ester! Dad's in bad enough shape as is! This would crush him!

But you’re in pain! It’s bad. Really bad! You have to talk to one of them! Otto, since you refuse to talk to your father.

I'll talk to them later. It's really not as bad as it looks, though.

Caaasss!

Ester stared at his torso, occasionally glancing back up at his face.

Please, when you leave, go home. Show them- this! This needs to be watched and taken care of.

I'm watching it. I'm taking care of it.

He went to scratch at an irritated spot on his neck but stopped.

Are you sure? It looks bad. Real bad.

It only hurts sometimes. It'll get better.

I swear if you’re lying to me, Cass…

Could you actually help us cover it up? You're good at makeup, right?

Only if you tell someone about this later.

She opened a drawer in their desk.

I promise I will tell someone. Maybe Peter.

He blushed.

Thanks.

Ooo, Peter, huh?

She teased, putting the foundation on a sponge brush, lightly tapping it onto Cass’ abdomen.

Of course.

Yeah, yeah. Tease all you want.

He bit his hand to stop himself from making any pained sounds.

I want to hear more about how much your obsessed with him. Ester worked on covering Cass’ skin, trying to find a specific shade from her palettes that would work for him.

Boy you are as pale as a ghost.

I'm not obsessed! I just... think he's cute. And sweet. And funny...

He frowned.

Sorry. I've been cooped up in the lab for the better part of three months.

You can do better than him. But it sounds like you’re hooked on him.

Ester lightly brushed the spot she was working on.

I know, I’m not judging. though this makeup makes you look a bit more orange for some reason. Am I really that tanned?

Wait, I have... uh...

He dug through his bag before pulling out a very pale foundation and some concealer.

I had no idea what I was getting.

Oh perfect. Look at you go, buying makeup. Never thought I’d see the day.

She takes the makeup from him and starts wiping off the layers of powder and liquid she has been trying to work with before dabbing it onto his skin.

Is it a better match? I really had no clue what I was doing.

He dug his nails into his palms to ignore the pain he felt from his skin being touched.

So much better. You did great.

Ester looks down at his hands, their fingers dancing across Cass’ knuckle.

Am I hurting you?

No, you're helping me cover this up.

He forced himself to smile.

I really appreciate you doing this for me.

Of course.

They could still sense his pain, trying to be as gentle as possible.

Do you want to talk with me to try and distract yourself? Or I can talk. Whatever helps.

I... ow, okay, maybe we should just cover the places that my shirt won't cover entirely. Sorry. We can talk if you—

He grabbed his side, just below his ribcage and winced.

If you want.

I’m just trying to distract you. Talking always distracts me from pain or stress.

Ester sat the brushes down and handed Cass’ shirt to him.

Thanks.

He tugged it on and kept his eyes closed. It shouldn't hurt this bad. He knows it shouldn't hurt this bad. But he can't admit that.

I think it's mostly my neck and arms that are visible.

Alright. Where shall I start first?

She spoke while in the middle of cleaning her makeup brushes.

I think the arms will hurt less.

He mentally smacked himself for admitting it hurt.

That’s what I thought.

Ester huffed again. They began to lightly apply makeup from the wrists up, pausing, the nearest to the shoulder and down, then meeting in the middle.

How’s it look?

Perfect. Thank you, Ester. You're an angel for helping me with this. I owe you.

He smiled at his arm. He hadn't seen it normal for months. It was refreshing to feel somewhat whole

It’s nothing! I’m not even done yet.

Ester grinned ear to ear, happy to see their best friend looking at peace for the first time since he got here.

You owe me nothing.

It's not nothing. I haven't felt like myself for months. At least now I look like me. And it's thanks to you.

Awww, you’re making me blush.

She switches sides and starts on his other arm

… I’m a bit curious… Is the experiments the only reason you haven’t been talking to me? Or responding to my texts?

They're.. ah, they're the main reason, yeah.

He patted the side of his leg repeatedly with the already finished hand.

Was there something else?

She murmured something to herself, focusing on the makeup.

I also just wanted to keep you away from this. To keep you safe. And Honey—

[...]

what? Seriously? Right now? Okay. And Henry didn't trust you.

You know you can always talk to me, Cass.

She switches brushes.

Also I’ve given Henry a chance, or at least tried, why doesn’t he like me?! Sure I can be a bit tense around him but I know he’s no real threat. He’s a good person.

He smirked.

You're naive.

I know there’s more than that, Henry.

She glanced up at his smirk and rolled their eyes.

Speak up.

He grabbed her wrist and looked them in the eyes.

You're pathetic and weak. You think we should hide ourselves. Quit before we reach our true potential.

Ester gasped, attempting to pull their wrist back.

What are you talking about?!

You wanted us to stop. Your unnecessary concern and attachment is the anchor holding us back.

His grip tightened.

And you continue to hold us back. We're so close.

His voice took on a high, mocking tone

But no! Ester is concerned, so we have to stop.

You're making him, us, weak.

Henry let me go!-

She resisted the urge to pull back, to defend themself and fight, but Ester already had a slight feeling that Henry was onto them.

Why should I?

He leaned in closer.

Give me one good reason.

Henry I know you’re not a bad person, please! You’re a bit chaotic but I know you would never hurt me! You would never hurt anybody!

Ester whimpered, searching his face for any sign of emotion.

He slapped her before grabbing their jaw tight. His tone is cold and final.

You don't know us. You don't know Cassius, and you most certainly don't know me.

He held on tighter, putting their other hand on their shoulder and pushing her down.

Quit pretending you do.

They hold her cheek, staring up at Henry in terror. Oh god. Oh no it was so much worse. How could this night escalate more?..

Henry we can talk about this! Stop you’re hurting me!

There was a knock on Ester's window. Cass was outside. Their hair was shorter than the last time they spoke to Ester, their chest flatter, their eyes red with dark circles around them, but they were smiling. They looked so much more like Norman than they used to.

@first-born-osborn

Hm? Cass! How are you? You haven’t text me in like a million years.

They opened the window wider, now getting a better look at her dear friend.

You look… different. I like it!

They practically fell into their room. There was a green liquid smudged on their lips. Their voice was deeper when they spoke, just enough to be immediately noticeable.

Hey... sorry to show up unannounced.

You’re fine! You know this place is always a safe place for y-…What is on your lips? Did you drink something?

Oh lord above please don’t be what I think it is.

Uh—

They touched their fingers to their lips and looked at them, licking the rest off their lips without much more than a panicked thought.

Just some tests. No big deal.

Cass what the hell?! What have you been doing?!

They sit close to their friend, panic setting in. Please don’t tell me that they were doing something stupid.

I... uh... you know about the whole Goblin thing and Honey and all that, right? Well... I'm continuing those tests.

Wh- Cass are you kidding me? Do you know how dangerous it is? You’ve seen what it does to your dad. I don’t want anything bad to happen to you!

Ester grabbed a towel and helped wipe the green liquid away. She sighed, thinking to themself.

…Why are you doing this?

I need answers, Est! I need to know what it will do if I don't quit like my father did.

They took the towel from Ester to get it themself and tugged their sleeve down to their palm

Your father became a madman, Cass. It’s dangerous! Look at you!

They stood up, throwing their arms in the air.

My father is not mad! This is controlled, Ester.

[...]

What do you mean, "Look at me?"

You’re right, you’re right, I’m sorry…. But I doubt it’s controlled, considering you’re coughing up mysterious green liquids.

They tilted her head.

What’s Honey saying this time?

The tests are perfectly safe! It's not some mysterious green liquid. I believe it is blood. And it doesn't matter what Honey said.

Bl- Cass! Your blood isn’t supposed to be green. This is definitely not as safe as you think they are!

They took a deep breath.

I’m sorry, I’m just… nervous for you…

...

Hey, if it goes green, and not in the good way, I'll tell my dad, alright? I just... this could be massive if it works. Think about it, Est. Imagine the possibilities.

I’d like to, Cass. But the sound of it just… I don’t like the sound of all this. Do you understand my concern?

If I'm honest, no. It hasn't hurt me yet, has it? None of my experiments have gone terribly wrong. And anyway, risks are part of laboratory science.

Ester huffed, reaching a hand out to be held, begging to be comforted.

I’ll believe you for now.

He took their hand and sat back down, frowning.

I'm completely fine, Est. I'll be fine. I haven't gone on a murderous, vengeful rampage, have I?

Yet.

Eater tried to laugh. They leaned on Cass’ shoulder.

…You better talk to your dad about this. And keep me updated.

Are you kidding?

He huffed, leaning back on his free hand.

He can't know. He'll shut it down out of paranoia to "protect me from myself."

Well duh, what you’re doing is dangerous!

They kept her head on his shoulder, squeezing their hand.

Maybe you should listen… even if it’s in the name of science… just saying.

It's too late for me to turn back, Ester.

They fiddled with his headphones.

[...]

He furrowed his brow.

I know… I just care about you a lot.

She sighs, looking up.

What’s wrong? Did I say something?

Mm. Not you. Honey. He's just telling me I should try again.

I don’t know how to think about that, Cass. I guess I’d prefer you’d do this under supervision… but Honey?

You got a problem with Honey?

No! Of course not…. I’m just, I dunno, a bit paranoid? You know how I am.

You always turn to that, hmm. Paranoia. It's getting harder and harder to believe you're not afraid of me.

… Heyyy Honey…

Ester moved up from lying on his shoulder.

I’m not scared at all! Obviously. I’m just skittish around people in general. Cass has seen me, I’m sure you have to.

I'm sure.

He quietly hummed the tune of The Itsy Bitsy Spider.

…What brings you out to visit me? Was it mentioning you or is there something else?

They tried to ignore the song. It was the nursery rhyme, maybe it was a different song with the same tune, like twinkle twinkle little star and the ABCS.

Oh, you know... when I heard you trying to convince Cassius to stop the tests, I had to do something.

The tests are dangerous, Honey. It’s hurting him and also your body. I can just.. tell.

We're just fine. True, there are some... side effects, but it's nothing we can't handle.

…I’m going to trust you both on this. But I swear if anything bad happens beyond this I will be extremely upset… I don’t want to see Cass getting hurt. You too, I guess.

How nice it is to know you care about me.

He coughed, quickly grabbing a cloth from his pocket and lifting it to his mouth, staining it green.

C- Honey! You seriously think coughing up green is okay?! Is it getting worse?

They looked down at the cloth.

I'll admit, that isn't ideal. But it's just one little side effect. It doesn't matter that there's more than last time.

Honey, Hon, I can call you Hon, right? You can be serious. Clearly this is effecting your health!

I'm completely serious. I'll talk to Norman if I must, but... I...

For the first time since they arrived, they looked nervous.

I really would rather not.

Why don’t either of you want to talk to Norman? Because he’ll talk you out of continuing his work? Talk you two out of doing something that will end up killing you or worse?

Deep breaths.

Sorry…

Because that "cure" those weird spider guys from another universe gave him didn't do the job, alright?! I don't want to put him under any more stress than he's already under with Oscorp and Gobby. Otto can only help so much. And before you ask, no, he doesn't know about this either...

However...

He felt his shoulder, finding a backpack strap and smiling. He pulled his bag into his lap and opened it, looking for a moment before producing a green-stained notebook. Honey and Cass' ability to work together seemed to have improved.

His research could prove to be useful...

You have to tell someone! I’m sorry that the other guys didn’t help like they thought they did but there’s gotta be another way besides experimenting on yourself! You have to get some help.

They noticed the bag, blinking and looking up at Cass and Honey’s face, her eyes widening, spider sense going off.

I don’t like that look on your face… do I dare ask what you’re looking at?

He flipped through several pages, their smile growing wider.

I have notes from one of those spider guys. Everything he learned about my father, the performance enhancers, all of it, and Otto's corrections and notes. I've been using them for a while, but I hadn't thought... I need to go.

He couldn't help but laugh to themself.

Wh- You’re going to leave? Now!?

Esters mind was pounding at her skull. They knew whatever was going to happen was bad. She tried to stop them, convince them, now she had to pray that she wouldn’t have to do anything.

Well, of course I—

He frowned, noticing Ester's panic. When the light caught their eyes, they almost looked green rather than brown.

You really don't want me to follow through with this, do you? It's completely controlled.

I just want you to be safe, Cass… you’re my best friend.

If I get my father to approve the tests, will you quit worrying?

[...]

He grabbed his wrist tightly.

… It will help, yes.

Their eyes darted to his wrists, looking back up with worry and comfort in her eyes.

I'll talk to him and Otto... soon. Alright? Everything will be fine.

He opened his arms for a hug.

Thank you.

She leaned in, squeezing them and resting their head on his shoulder.

I love you a lot, dude. I don’t want you hurting yourself…

I love you, too, Est. I won't hurt myself.

He tried again to pull his sleeve down over his wrist and grumbled when it didn't stay.

Dang it, this fit me fine last week...

Ester nuzzled her nose into the crook of their neck. Their eyes noticed Cass messing with his sleeve.

Are you growing out of your clothes?

It would seem I am.

He shook his head in mild disappointment and began to rub Ester's back gently, trying to distract them from everything that just happened.

It's not unheard of to have a growth spurt at my age.

You’re going to be too tall for me to tease.

Ester laughed quietly, their fingers curling around the fabric of Cass’ shirt, completely melting into her friend.

I'm sure you'll find a way.

He leaned back, blinking slowly. He felt like he should be at home, but he wanted to be there for Ester after what he did.

You always find a way to tease.

Good… promise me we will stay like this forever.

She looked towards Cass.

Close friends like this…

Ester notices his sluggishness.

…You don’t have to stay.

... forever is a really long time, Est.

He yawned, moving their head back where it was.

I'm just a bit out of it. I'm alright.

If you feel like you need to rest you can sleep over. My aunts don’t mind.

Nah, I don't need my dad freaking out. But thank you for the offer, and thank you for understanding.

He gave her a very tight squeeze of a hug

Besides, I have to be in the lab early tomorrow.

Alright…. Does that mean you have to go soon?

Ester continued to curl up in the embrace, feeling safe and comforted in his arms, offering as much support she could as well.

He sighed, carefully fishing his phone out of his pocket without really letting go of Ester.

I guess I could let my dad know where I am. He'll probably want proof, but if I give it to him, I'm sure he'll be fine.

Good. Because I don’t want this moment to end.

They bury herself against Cass more and more, basically becoming a weighted blanket for him.

He called Norman and waited for him to answer, wrapping his arm around their shoulders.

Hey, da- yes, I'm okay.

[...]

Yes, I'm somewhere safe. Dad, I'm with Ester. You... yes, dad. Okay, let me— dad, calm down. I'm not lying. I... fine.

He pulled the phone away from himself

He wants to talk to you, if that's alright.

Of course.

Ester takes the phone, sitting up and putting the phone to her ear.

Hey Norman!

They say in a friendly tone.

Ester! I'm so sorry to bother you. Otto and I were worried when Cass didn't come home, and with how he's been behaving recently, we needed to be sure he wasn't lying to us. He hasn't hurt you, has he?

Hurting me? No of course not. We’ve just been talking all night. He’s been fine.

They debated on telling Norman and Otto about the throwing up blood; green blood. Best not, just in case. Esters mind flashes to the green goblin and shutters. She wonders how far the experiments Cass and Honey have been doing were working out.

How has he been acting at home, exactly?

Cass narrowed his eyes but stopped himself from grabbing the phone.

Well, he's hardly been home, but when he has been, he's been withdrawn, unfocused, erratic—

Secretive. Irritable. Like the average teenager.

Not like Cass, Otto. Not like Cass.

…. Do you want me to talk about it with him?

She covers her mouth and whispers into the phone.

No, it isn't your job to fix my poor parent—

We appreciate the offer, Ester. You're very kind. Thank you for being such a good friend to Cass. If you would like to talk with him, you are welcome to. Norman and I will speak with him when he gets home either way.

Alright I'm here anytime. Ready to help whatever way I can. Cass is awesome so I’m sure everything is going to be alright…

They reached over and hung up the phone, taking it out of Ester's hand.

I think I should go.

Cass? Is everything okay? I’m sorry I didn’t mean to overstep anything.

I won't let them make you a tool they use to try and fix us. Now, I should go. I need to have a discussion with my father.

You don’t need fixed! I’m not gonna be manipulated by them! Look whatever they said doesn’t matter. Please, don’t get hurt.

He stood up, not really caring if he knocked Ester off of them, and walked to the window.

This is a risk I have to take. I'm sorry you don't seem to understand that.

I… fine. Call me if it gets messy. And tell me when you get home! I don’t want you to get hurt. Or worse.

I'm not going home yet. I'll see you later.

Wha- where are you going?! Cass- Hon- whoever it is you have to talk to me! Where are you going?!

Oscorp.

They felt around in their pocket for his badge.

Even if you don't see why, I have to do this.

Why?! Your experiments can wait, can’t they?! Why are you in such a rush with this?!

It doesn't matter!

He stepped forward, lifting a hand up for emphasis. His sleeve moved again, revealing dark veins in his wrists that likely went up his arm. He didn't seem to notice.

Her mind lead them to stare at his wrist. She covered her mouth, audibly gasping, on the verge of tears. It was so much worse than they thought.

What are you...

Shit. It's not what it looks like. It's just a minor side effect. It'll be fine.

He reached out to touch their shoulder but paused, thinking better of it.

But what if you’re not fine?! What if then?!

Ester choked.

Hey, no, don't think like that, Est.

He wrapped his arms around her, trying to be reassuring.

Everything will be fine. I have it under control. It isn't as bad as it looks.

Ester sobbed, squeezing him closer and closer.

You better be in as much control as you say you are…

He cupped the back of Ester's head, hiding his face in their hair.

I'm as in control as I can be.

Don’t die on me.

She exhaled a breath of air. She laid her head on his chest, softly weeping.

...

I'm right here. I'm not going anywhere.

Good…

Ester’s sniffles soon calmed

You’re too important.

He rolled his eyes.

Please. Me? Important? Ha! You'd be fine without me if you really tried. You don't need me.

[...]

Sorry. That was probably the wrong thing to say. But it's true. You'd be completely fine without me.

Cass I swear…

She huffed.

Don’t do this to me.

Est, we're both changing. I can't go back to how I was before. I'm not dying, but I am changing. You realize that, right?

Yes, I do. I understand change is important, it’s a part of growing up. But I don’t think self experimentation is usually part of the process.

I'd argue that self experimentation is almost a requirement in the teen years.

He smiled, trying to lighten the mood just a bit.

Oh come on.. You know what I mean.

She couldn’t help but quietly chuckle.

Seriously though, I need to finish what I've started.

… Fine. But if you start hurting and not telling somebody about it, I will slap you.

I'll be fine.

He quickly grabbed the cloth again and turned away to cough violently into it.

Are ya sure about that?

He sighed.

Do you want complete honesty? The truth isn't pretty.

… Yeah.

He stepped back and took a deep breath in before slipping his shirt over his head. His torso was covered in patches of yellowish-green skin and red, irritated marks. His veins were more pronounced, and there were bruises covering his arms.

I told you it wasn't pretty.

Cass…

Ester covered her mouth, eventually reading out and tracing her hands over his shoulder.

God damn it…. Why?

He flinched at the touch.

I had to know, Ester. Now it's too late to turn back.

… Tell your dad and Otto about it. Please.

She said with watery eyes.

I can't, Ester! Dad's in bad enough shape as is! This would crush him!

But you’re in pain! It’s bad. Really bad! You have to talk to one of them! Otto, since you refuse to talk to your father.

I'll talk to them later. It's really not as bad as it looks, though.

Caaasss!

Ester stared at his torso, occasionally glancing back up at his face.

Please, when you leave, go home. Show them- this! This needs to be watched and taken care of.

I'm watching it. I'm taking care of it.

He went to scratch at an irritated spot on his neck but stopped.

Are you sure? It looks bad. Real bad.

It only hurts sometimes. It'll get better.

I swear if you’re lying to me, Cass…

Could you actually help us cover it up? You're good at makeup, right?

Only if you tell someone about this later.

She opened a drawer in their desk.

I promise I will tell someone. Maybe Peter.

He blushed.

Thanks.

Ooo, Peter, huh?

She teased, putting the foundation on a sponge brush, lightly tapping it onto Cass’ abdomen.

Of course.

Yeah, yeah. Tease all you want.

He bit his hand to stop himself from making any pained sounds.

I want to hear more about how much your obsessed with him. Ester worked on covering Cass’ skin, trying to find a specific shade from her palettes that would work for him.

Boy you are as pale as a ghost.

I'm not obsessed! I just... think he's cute. And sweet. And funny...

He frowned.

Sorry. I've been cooped up in the lab for the better part of three months.

You can do better than him. But it sounds like you’re hooked on him.

Ester lightly brushed the spot she was working on.

I know, I’m not judging. though this makeup makes you look a bit more orange for some reason. Am I really that tanned?

Wait, I have... uh...

He dug through his bag before pulling out a very pale foundation and some concealer.

I had no idea what I was getting.

Oh perfect. Look at you go, buying makeup. Never thought I’d see the day.

She takes the makeup from him and starts wiping off the layers of powder and liquid she has been trying to work with before dabbing it onto his skin.

Is it a better match? I really had no clue what I was doing.

He dug his nails into his palms to ignore the pain he felt from his skin being touched.

So much better. You did great.

Ester looks down at his hands, their fingers dancing across Cass’ knuckle.

Am I hurting you?

No, you're helping me cover this up.

He forced himself to smile.

I really appreciate you doing this for me.

Of course.

They could still sense his pain, trying to be as gentle as possible.

Do you want to talk with me to try and distract yourself? Or I can talk. Whatever helps.

I... ow, okay, maybe we should just cover the places that my shirt won't cover entirely. Sorry. We can talk if you—

He grabbed his side, just below his ribcage and winced.

If you want.

I’m just trying to distract you. Talking always distracts me from pain or stress.

Ester sat the brushes down and handed Cass’ shirt to him.

Thanks.

He tugged it on and kept his eyes closed. It shouldn't hurt this bad. He knows it shouldn't hurt this bad. But he can't admit that.

I think it's mostly my neck and arms that are visible.

Alright. Where shall I start first?

She spoke while in the middle of cleaning her makeup brushes.

I think the arms will hurt less.

He mentally smacked himself for admitting it hurt.

That’s what I thought.

Ester huffed again. They began to lightly apply makeup from the wrists up, pausing, the nearest to the shoulder and down, then meeting in the middle.

How’s it look?

Perfect. Thank you, Ester. You're an angel for helping me with this. I owe you.

He smiled at his arm. He hadn't seen it normal for months. It was refreshing to feel somewhat whole

It’s nothing! I’m not even done yet.

Ester grinned ear to ear, happy to see their best friend looking at peace for the first time since he got here.

You owe me nothing.

It's not nothing. I haven't felt like myself for months. At least now I look like me. And it's thanks to you.

Awww, you’re making me blush.

She switches sides and starts on his other arm

… I’m a bit curious… Is the experiments the only reason you haven’t been talking to me? Or responding to my texts?

They're.. ah, they're the main reason, yeah.

He patted the side of his leg repeatedly with the already finished hand.

Was there something else?

She murmured something to herself, focusing on the makeup.

I also just wanted to keep you away from this. To keep you safe. And Honey—

[...]

what? Seriously? Right now? Okay. And Henry didn't trust you.

You know you can always talk to me, Cass.

She switches brushes.

Also I’ve given Henry a chance, or at least tried, why doesn’t he like me?! Sure I can be a bit tense around him but I know he’s no real threat. He’s a good person.

He smirked.

You're naive.

I know there’s more than that, Henry.

She glanced up at his smirk and rolled their eyes.

Speak up.

He grabbed her wrist and looked them in the eyes.

You're pathetic and weak. You think we should hide ourselves. Quit before we reach our true potential.

Ester gasped, attempting to pull their wrist back.

What are you talking about?!

You wanted us to stop. Your unnecessary concern and attachment is the anchor holding us back.

His grip tightened.

And you continue to hold us back. We're so close.

His voice took on a high, mocking tone

But no! Ester is concerned, so we have to stop.

You're making him, us, weak.

Henry let me go!-

She resisted the urge to pull back, to defend themself and fight, but Ester already had a slight feeling that Henry was onto them.

Why should I?

He leaned in closer.

Give me one good reason.

Henry I know you’re not a bad person, please! You’re a bit chaotic but I know you would never hurt me! You would never hurt anybody!

Ester whimpered, searching his face for any sign of emotion.

There was a knock on Ester's window. Cass was outside. Their hair was shorter than the last time they spoke to Ester, their chest flatter, their eyes red with dark circles around them, but they were smiling. They looked so much more like Norman than they used to.

@first-born-osborn

Hm? Cass! How are you? You haven’t text me in like a million years.

They opened the window wider, now getting a better look at her dear friend.

You look… different. I like it!

They practically fell into their room. There was a green liquid smudged on their lips. Their voice was deeper when they spoke, just enough to be immediately noticeable.

Hey... sorry to show up unannounced.

You’re fine! You know this place is always a safe place for y-…What is on your lips? Did you drink something?

Oh lord above please don’t be what I think it is.

Uh—

They touched their fingers to their lips and looked at them, licking the rest off their lips without much more than a panicked thought.

Just some tests. No big deal.

Cass what the hell?! What have you been doing?!

They sit close to their friend, panic setting in. Please don’t tell me that they were doing something stupid.

I... uh... you know about the whole Goblin thing and Honey and all that, right? Well... I'm continuing those tests.

Wh- Cass are you kidding me? Do you know how dangerous it is? You’ve seen what it does to your dad. I don’t want anything bad to happen to you!

Ester grabbed a towel and helped wipe the green liquid away. She sighed, thinking to themself.

…Why are you doing this?

I need answers, Est! I need to know what it will do if I don't quit like my father did.

They took the towel from Ester to get it themself and tugged their sleeve down to their palm

Your father became a madman, Cass. It’s dangerous! Look at you!

They stood up, throwing their arms in the air.

My father is not mad! This is controlled, Ester.

[...]

What do you mean, "Look at me?"

You’re right, you’re right, I’m sorry…. But I doubt it’s controlled, considering you’re coughing up mysterious green liquids.

They tilted her head.

What’s Honey saying this time?

The tests are perfectly safe! It's not some mysterious green liquid. I believe it is blood. And it doesn't matter what Honey said.

Bl- Cass! Your blood isn’t supposed to be green. This is definitely not as safe as you think they are!

They took a deep breath.

I’m sorry, I’m just… nervous for you…

...

Hey, if it goes green, and not in the good way, I'll tell my dad, alright? I just... this could be massive if it works. Think about it, Est. Imagine the possibilities.

I’d like to, Cass. But the sound of it just… I don’t like the sound of all this. Do you understand my concern?

If I'm honest, no. It hasn't hurt me yet, has it? None of my experiments have gone terribly wrong. And anyway, risks are part of laboratory science.

Ester huffed, reaching a hand out to be held, begging to be comforted.

I’ll believe you for now.

He took their hand and sat back down, frowning.

I'm completely fine, Est. I'll be fine. I haven't gone on a murderous, vengeful rampage, have I?

Yet.

Eater tried to laugh. They leaned on Cass’ shoulder.

…You better talk to your dad about this. And keep me updated.

Are you kidding?

He huffed, leaning back on his free hand.

He can't know. He'll shut it down out of paranoia to "protect me from myself."

Well duh, what you’re doing is dangerous!

They kept her head on his shoulder, squeezing their hand.

Maybe you should listen… even if it’s in the name of science… just saying.

It's too late for me to turn back, Ester.

They fiddled with his headphones.

[...]

He furrowed his brow.

I know… I just care about you a lot.

She sighs, looking up.

What’s wrong? Did I say something?

Mm. Not you. Honey. He's just telling me I should try again.

I don’t know how to think about that, Cass. I guess I’d prefer you’d do this under supervision… but Honey?

You got a problem with Honey?

No! Of course not…. I’m just, I dunno, a bit paranoid? You know how I am.

You always turn to that, hmm. Paranoia. It's getting harder and harder to believe you're not afraid of me.

… Heyyy Honey…

Ester moved up from lying on his shoulder.

I’m not scared at all! Obviously. I’m just skittish around people in general. Cass has seen me, I’m sure you have to.

I'm sure.

He quietly hummed the tune of The Itsy Bitsy Spider.

…What brings you out to visit me? Was it mentioning you or is there something else?

They tried to ignore the song. It was the nursery rhyme, maybe it was a different song with the same tune, like twinkle twinkle little star and the ABCS.

Oh, you know... when I heard you trying to convince Cassius to stop the tests, I had to do something.

The tests are dangerous, Honey. It’s hurting him and also your body. I can just.. tell.

We're just fine. True, there are some... side effects, but it's nothing we can't handle.

…I’m going to trust you both on this. But I swear if anything bad happens beyond this I will be extremely upset… I don’t want to see Cass getting hurt. You too, I guess.

How nice it is to know you care about me.

He coughed, quickly grabbing a cloth from his pocket and lifting it to his mouth, staining it green.

C- Honey! You seriously think coughing up green is okay?! Is it getting worse?

They looked down at the cloth.

I'll admit, that isn't ideal. But it's just one little side effect. It doesn't matter that there's more than last time.

Honey, Hon, I can call you Hon, right? You can be serious. Clearly this is effecting your health!

I'm completely serious. I'll talk to Norman if I must, but... I...

For the first time since they arrived, they looked nervous.

I really would rather not.

Why don’t either of you want to talk to Norman? Because he’ll talk you out of continuing his work? Talk you two out of doing something that will end up killing you or worse?

Deep breaths.

Sorry…

Because that "cure" those weird spider guys from another universe gave him didn't do the job, alright?! I don't want to put him under any more stress than he's already under with Oscorp and Gobby. Otto can only help so much. And before you ask, no, he doesn't know about this either...

However...

He felt his shoulder, finding a backpack strap and smiling. He pulled his bag into his lap and opened it, looking for a moment before producing a green-stained notebook. Honey and Cass' ability to work together seemed to have improved.

His research could prove to be useful...

You have to tell someone! I’m sorry that the other guys didn’t help like they thought they did but there’s gotta be another way besides experimenting on yourself! You have to get some help.

They noticed the bag, blinking and looking up at Cass and Honey’s face, her eyes widening, spider sense going off.

I don’t like that look on your face… do I dare ask what you’re looking at?

He flipped through several pages, their smile growing wider.

I have notes from one of those spider guys. Everything he learned about my father, the performance enhancers, all of it, and Otto's corrections and notes. I've been using them for a while, but I hadn't thought... I need to go.

He couldn't help but laugh to themself.

Wh- You’re going to leave? Now!?

Esters mind was pounding at her skull. They knew whatever was going to happen was bad. She tried to stop them, convince them, now she had to pray that she wouldn’t have to do anything.

Well, of course I—

He frowned, noticing Ester's panic. When the light caught their eyes, they almost looked green rather than brown.

You really don't want me to follow through with this, do you? It's completely controlled.

I just want you to be safe, Cass… you’re my best friend.

If I get my father to approve the tests, will you quit worrying?

[...]

He grabbed his wrist tightly.

… It will help, yes.

Their eyes darted to his wrists, looking back up with worry and comfort in her eyes.

I'll talk to him and Otto... soon. Alright? Everything will be fine.

He opened his arms for a hug.

Thank you.

She leaned in, squeezing them and resting their head on his shoulder.

I love you a lot, dude. I don’t want you hurting yourself…

I love you, too, Est. I won't hurt myself.

He tried again to pull his sleeve down over his wrist and grumbled when it didn't stay.

Dang it, this fit me fine last week...

Ester nuzzled her nose into the crook of their neck. Their eyes noticed Cass messing with his sleeve.

Are you growing out of your clothes?

It would seem I am.

He shook his head in mild disappointment and began to rub Ester's back gently, trying to distract them from everything that just happened.

It's not unheard of to have a growth spurt at my age.

You’re going to be too tall for me to tease.

Ester laughed quietly, their fingers curling around the fabric of Cass’ shirt, completely melting into her friend.

I'm sure you'll find a way.

He leaned back, blinking slowly. He felt like he should be at home, but he wanted to be there for Ester after what he did.

You always find a way to tease.

Good… promise me we will stay like this forever.

She looked towards Cass.

Close friends like this…

Ester notices his sluggishness.

…You don’t have to stay.

... forever is a really long time, Est.

He yawned, moving their head back where it was.

I'm just a bit out of it. I'm alright.

If you feel like you need to rest you can sleep over. My aunts don’t mind.

Nah, I don't need my dad freaking out. But thank you for the offer, and thank you for understanding.

He gave her a very tight squeeze of a hug

Besides, I have to be in the lab early tomorrow.

Alright…. Does that mean you have to go soon?

Ester continued to curl up in the embrace, feeling safe and comforted in his arms, offering as much support she could as well.

He sighed, carefully fishing his phone out of his pocket without really letting go of Ester.

I guess I could let my dad know where I am. He'll probably want proof, but if I give it to him, I'm sure he'll be fine.

Good. Because I don’t want this moment to end.

They bury herself against Cass more and more, basically becoming a weighted blanket for him.

He called Norman and waited for him to answer, wrapping his arm around their shoulders.

Hey, da- yes, I'm okay.

[...]

Yes, I'm somewhere safe. Dad, I'm with Ester. You... yes, dad. Okay, let me— dad, calm down. I'm not lying. I... fine.

He pulled the phone away from himself

He wants to talk to you, if that's alright.

Of course.

Ester takes the phone, sitting up and putting the phone to her ear.

Hey Norman!

They say in a friendly tone.

Ester! I'm so sorry to bother you. Otto and I were worried when Cass didn't come home, and with how he's been behaving recently, we needed to be sure he wasn't lying to us. He hasn't hurt you, has he?

Hurting me? No of course not. We’ve just been talking all night. He’s been fine.

They debated on telling Norman and Otto about the throwing up blood; green blood. Best not, just in case. Esters mind flashes to the green goblin and shutters. She wonders how far the experiments Cass and Honey have been doing were working out.

How has he been acting at home, exactly?

Cass narrowed his eyes but stopped himself from grabbing the phone.

Well, he's hardly been home, but when he has been, he's been withdrawn, unfocused, erratic—

Secretive. Irritable. Like the average teenager.

Not like Cass, Otto. Not like Cass.

…. Do you want me to talk about it with him?

She covers her mouth and whispers into the phone.

No, it isn't your job to fix my poor parent—

We appreciate the offer, Ester. You're very kind. Thank you for being such a good friend to Cass. If you would like to talk with him, you are welcome to. Norman and I will speak with him when he gets home either way.

Alright I'm here anytime. Ready to help whatever way I can. Cass is awesome so I’m sure everything is going to be alright…

They reached over and hung up the phone, taking it out of Ester's hand.

I think I should go.

Cass? Is everything okay? I’m sorry I didn’t mean to overstep anything.

I won't let them make you a tool they use to try and fix us. Now, I should go. I need to have a discussion with my father.

You don’t need fixed! I’m not gonna be manipulated by them! Look whatever they said doesn’t matter. Please, don’t get hurt.

He stood up, not really caring if he knocked Ester off of them, and walked to the window.

This is a risk I have to take. I'm sorry you don't seem to understand that.

I… fine. Call me if it gets messy. And tell me when you get home! I don’t want you to get hurt. Or worse.

I'm not going home yet. I'll see you later.

Wha- where are you going?! Cass- Hon- whoever it is you have to talk to me! Where are you going?!

Oscorp.

They felt around in their pocket for his badge.

Even if you don't see why, I have to do this.

Why?! Your experiments can wait, can’t they?! Why are you in such a rush with this?!

It doesn't matter!

He stepped forward, lifting a hand up for emphasis. His sleeve moved again, revealing dark veins in his wrists that likely went up his arm. He didn't seem to notice.

Her mind lead them to stare at his wrist. She covered her mouth, audibly gasping, on the verge of tears. It was so much worse than they thought.

What are you...

Shit. It's not what it looks like. It's just a minor side effect. It'll be fine.

He reached out to touch their shoulder but paused, thinking better of it.

But what if you’re not fine?! What if then?!

Ester choked.

Hey, no, don't think like that, Est.

He wrapped his arms around her, trying to be reassuring.

Everything will be fine. I have it under control. It isn't as bad as it looks.

Ester sobbed, squeezing him closer and closer.

You better be in as much control as you say you are…

He cupped the back of Ester's head, hiding his face in their hair.

I'm as in control as I can be.

Don’t die on me.

She exhaled a breath of air. She laid her head on his chest, softly weeping.

...

I'm right here. I'm not going anywhere.

Good…

Ester’s sniffles soon calmed

You’re too important.

He rolled his eyes.

Please. Me? Important? Ha! You'd be fine without me if you really tried. You don't need me.

[...]

Sorry. That was probably the wrong thing to say. But it's true. You'd be completely fine without me.

Cass I swear…

She huffed.

Don’t do this to me.

Est, we're both changing. I can't go back to how I was before. I'm not dying, but I am changing. You realize that, right?

Yes, I do. I understand change is important, it’s a part of growing up. But I don’t think self experimentation is usually part of the process.

I'd argue that self experimentation is almost a requirement in the teen years.

He smiled, trying to lighten the mood just a bit.

Oh come on.. You know what I mean.

She couldn’t help but quietly chuckle.

Seriously though, I need to finish what I've started.

… Fine. But if you start hurting and not telling somebody about it, I will slap you.

I'll be fine.

He quickly grabbed the cloth again and turned away to cough violently into it.

Are ya sure about that?

He sighed.

Do you want complete honesty? The truth isn't pretty.

… Yeah.

He stepped back and took a deep breath in before slipping his shirt over his head. His torso was covered in patches of yellowish-green skin and red, irritated marks. His veins were more pronounced, and there were bruises covering his arms.

I told you it wasn't pretty.

Cass…

Ester covered her mouth, eventually reading out and tracing her hands over his shoulder.

God damn it…. Why?

He flinched at the touch.

I had to know, Ester. Now it's too late to turn back.

… Tell your dad and Otto about it. Please.

She said with watery eyes.

I can't, Ester! Dad's in bad enough shape as is! This would crush him!

But you’re in pain! It’s bad. Really bad! You have to talk to one of them! Otto, since you refuse to talk to your father.

I'll talk to them later. It's really not as bad as it looks, though.

Caaasss!

Ester stared at his torso, occasionally glancing back up at his face.

Please, when you leave, go home. Show them- this! This needs to be watched and taken care of.

I'm watching it. I'm taking care of it.

He went to scratch at an irritated spot on his neck but stopped.

Are you sure? It looks bad. Real bad.

It only hurts sometimes. It'll get better.

I swear if you’re lying to me, Cass…

Could you actually help us cover it up? You're good at makeup, right?

Only if you tell someone about this later.

She opened a drawer in their desk.

I promise I will tell someone. Maybe Peter.

He blushed.

Thanks.

Ooo, Peter, huh?

She teased, putting the foundation on a sponge brush, lightly tapping it onto Cass’ abdomen.

Of course.

Yeah, yeah. Tease all you want.

He bit his hand to stop himself from making any pained sounds.

I want to hear more about how much your obsessed with him. Ester worked on covering Cass’ skin, trying to find a specific shade from her palettes that would work for him.

Boy you are as pale as a ghost.

I'm not obsessed! I just... think he's cute. And sweet. And funny...

He frowned.

Sorry. I've been cooped up in the lab for the better part of three months.

You can do better than him. But it sounds like you’re hooked on him.

Ester lightly brushed the spot she was working on.

I know, I’m not judging. though this makeup makes you look a bit more orange for some reason. Am I really that tanned?

Wait, I have... uh...

He dug through his bag before pulling out a very pale foundation and some concealer.

I had no idea what I was getting.

Oh perfect. Look at you go, buying makeup. Never thought I’d see the day.

She takes the makeup from him and starts wiping off the layers of powder and liquid she has been trying to work with before dabbing it onto his skin.

Is it a better match? I really had no clue what I was doing.

He dug his nails into his palms to ignore the pain he felt from his skin being touched.

So much better. You did great.

Ester looks down at his hands, their fingers dancing across Cass’ knuckle.

Am I hurting you?

No, you're helping me cover this up.

He forced himself to smile.

I really appreciate you doing this for me.

Of course.

They could still sense his pain, trying to be as gentle as possible.

Do you want to talk with me to try and distract yourself? Or I can talk. Whatever helps.

I... ow, okay, maybe we should just cover the places that my shirt won't cover entirely. Sorry. We can talk if you—

He grabbed his side, just below his ribcage and winced.

If you want.

I’m just trying to distract you. Talking always distracts me from pain or stress.

Ester sat the brushes down and handed Cass’ shirt to him.

Thanks.

He tugged it on and kept his eyes closed. It shouldn't hurt this bad. He knows it shouldn't hurt this bad. But he can't admit that.

I think it's mostly my neck and arms that are visible.

Alright. Where shall I start first?

She spoke while in the middle of cleaning her makeup brushes.

I think the arms will hurt less.

He mentally smacked himself for admitting it hurt.

That’s what I thought.

Ester huffed again. They began to lightly apply makeup from the wrists up, pausing, the nearest to the shoulder and down, then meeting in the middle.

How’s it look?

Perfect. Thank you, Ester. You're an angel for helping me with this. I owe you.

He smiled at his arm. He hadn't seen it normal for months. It was refreshing to feel somewhat whole

It’s nothing! I’m not even done yet.

Ester grinned ear to ear, happy to see their best friend looking at peace for the first time since he got here.

You owe me nothing.

It's not nothing. I haven't felt like myself for months. At least now I look like me. And it's thanks to you.

Awww, you’re making me blush.

She switches sides and starts on his other arm

… I’m a bit curious… Is the experiments the only reason you haven’t been talking to me? Or responding to my texts?

They're.. ah, they're the main reason, yeah.

He patted the side of his leg repeatedly with the already finished hand.

Was there something else?

She murmured something to herself, focusing on the makeup.

I also just wanted to keep you away from this. To keep you safe. And Honey—

[...]

what? Seriously? Right now? Okay. And Henry didn't trust you.

You know you can always talk to me, Cass.

She switches brushes.

Also I’ve given Henry a chance, or at least tried, why doesn’t he like me?! Sure I can be a bit tense around him but I know he’s no real threat. He’s a good person.

He smirked.

You're naive.

I know there’s more than that, Henry.

She glanced up at his smirk and rolled their eyes.

Speak up.

He grabbed her wrist and looked them in the eyes.

You're pathetic and weak. You think we should hide ourselves. Quit before we reach our true potential.

Ester gasped, attempting to pull their wrist back.

What are you talking about?!

You wanted us to stop. Your unnecessary concern and attachment is the anchor holding us back.

His grip tightened.

And you continue to hold us back. We're so close.

His voice took on a high, mocking tone

But no! Ester is concerned, so we have to stop.

You're making him, us, weak.

Henry let me go!-

She resisted the urge to pull back, to defend themself and fight, but Ester already had a slight feeling that Henry was onto them.

There was a knock on Ester's window. Cass was outside. Their hair was shorter than the last time they spoke to Ester, their chest flatter, their eyes red with dark circles around them, but they were smiling. They looked so much more like Norman than they used to.

@first-born-osborn

Hm? Cass! How are you? You haven’t text me in like a million years.

They opened the window wider, now getting a better look at her dear friend.

You look… different. I like it!

They practically fell into their room. There was a green liquid smudged on their lips. Their voice was deeper when they spoke, just enough to be immediately noticeable.

Hey... sorry to show up unannounced.

You’re fine! You know this place is always a safe place for y-…What is on your lips? Did you drink something?

Oh lord above please don’t be what I think it is.

Uh—

They touched their fingers to their lips and looked at them, licking the rest off their lips without much more than a panicked thought.

Just some tests. No big deal.

Cass what the hell?! What have you been doing?!

They sit close to their friend, panic setting in. Please don’t tell me that they were doing something stupid.

I... uh... you know about the whole Goblin thing and Honey and all that, right? Well... I'm continuing those tests.

Wh- Cass are you kidding me? Do you know how dangerous it is? You’ve seen what it does to your dad. I don’t want anything bad to happen to you!

Ester grabbed a towel and helped wipe the green liquid away. She sighed, thinking to themself.

…Why are you doing this?

I need answers, Est! I need to know what it will do if I don't quit like my father did.

They took the towel from Ester to get it themself and tugged their sleeve down to their palm

Your father became a madman, Cass. It’s dangerous! Look at you!

They stood up, throwing their arms in the air.

My father is not mad! This is controlled, Ester.

[...]

What do you mean, "Look at me?"

You’re right, you’re right, I’m sorry…. But I doubt it’s controlled, considering you’re coughing up mysterious green liquids.

They tilted her head.

What’s Honey saying this time?

The tests are perfectly safe! It's not some mysterious green liquid. I believe it is blood. And it doesn't matter what Honey said.

Bl- Cass! Your blood isn’t supposed to be green. This is definitely not as safe as you think they are!

They took a deep breath.

I’m sorry, I’m just… nervous for you…

...

Hey, if it goes green, and not in the good way, I'll tell my dad, alright? I just... this could be massive if it works. Think about it, Est. Imagine the possibilities.

I’d like to, Cass. But the sound of it just… I don’t like the sound of all this. Do you understand my concern?

If I'm honest, no. It hasn't hurt me yet, has it? None of my experiments have gone terribly wrong. And anyway, risks are part of laboratory science.

Ester huffed, reaching a hand out to be held, begging to be comforted.

I’ll believe you for now.

He took their hand and sat back down, frowning.

I'm completely fine, Est. I'll be fine. I haven't gone on a murderous, vengeful rampage, have I?

Yet.

Eater tried to laugh. They leaned on Cass’ shoulder.

…You better talk to your dad about this. And keep me updated.

Are you kidding?

He huffed, leaning back on his free hand.

He can't know. He'll shut it down out of paranoia to "protect me from myself."

Well duh, what you’re doing is dangerous!

They kept her head on his shoulder, squeezing their hand.

Maybe you should listen… even if it’s in the name of science… just saying.

It's too late for me to turn back, Ester.

They fiddled with his headphones.

[...]

He furrowed his brow.

I know… I just care about you a lot.

She sighs, looking up.

What’s wrong? Did I say something?

Mm. Not you. Honey. He's just telling me I should try again.

I don’t know how to think about that, Cass. I guess I’d prefer you’d do this under supervision… but Honey?

You got a problem with Honey?

No! Of course not…. I’m just, I dunno, a bit paranoid? You know how I am.

You always turn to that, hmm. Paranoia. It's getting harder and harder to believe you're not afraid of me.

… Heyyy Honey…

Ester moved up from lying on his shoulder.

I’m not scared at all! Obviously. I’m just skittish around people in general. Cass has seen me, I’m sure you have to.

I'm sure.

He quietly hummed the tune of The Itsy Bitsy Spider.

…What brings you out to visit me? Was it mentioning you or is there something else?

They tried to ignore the song. It was the nursery rhyme, maybe it was a different song with the same tune, like twinkle twinkle little star and the ABCS.

Oh, you know... when I heard you trying to convince Cassius to stop the tests, I had to do something.

The tests are dangerous, Honey. It’s hurting him and also your body. I can just.. tell.

We're just fine. True, there are some... side effects, but it's nothing we can't handle.

…I’m going to trust you both on this. But I swear if anything bad happens beyond this I will be extremely upset… I don’t want to see Cass getting hurt. You too, I guess.

How nice it is to know you care about me.

He coughed, quickly grabbing a cloth from his pocket and lifting it to his mouth, staining it green.

C- Honey! You seriously think coughing up green is okay?! Is it getting worse?

They looked down at the cloth.

I'll admit, that isn't ideal. But it's just one little side effect. It doesn't matter that there's more than last time.

Honey, Hon, I can call you Hon, right? You can be serious. Clearly this is effecting your health!

I'm completely serious. I'll talk to Norman if I must, but... I...

For the first time since they arrived, they looked nervous.

I really would rather not.

Why don’t either of you want to talk to Norman? Because he’ll talk you out of continuing his work? Talk you two out of doing something that will end up killing you or worse?

Deep breaths.

Sorry…

Because that "cure" those weird spider guys from another universe gave him didn't do the job, alright?! I don't want to put him under any more stress than he's already under with Oscorp and Gobby. Otto can only help so much. And before you ask, no, he doesn't know about this either...

However...

He felt his shoulder, finding a backpack strap and smiling. He pulled his bag into his lap and opened it, looking for a moment before producing a green-stained notebook. Honey and Cass' ability to work together seemed to have improved.

His research could prove to be useful...

You have to tell someone! I’m sorry that the other guys didn’t help like they thought they did but there’s gotta be another way besides experimenting on yourself! You have to get some help.

They noticed the bag, blinking and looking up at Cass and Honey’s face, her eyes widening, spider sense going off.

I don’t like that look on your face… do I dare ask what you’re looking at?

He flipped through several pages, their smile growing wider.

I have notes from one of those spider guys. Everything he learned about my father, the performance enhancers, all of it, and Otto's corrections and notes. I've been using them for a while, but I hadn't thought... I need to go.

He couldn't help but laugh to themself.

Wh- You’re going to leave? Now!?

Esters mind was pounding at her skull. They knew whatever was going to happen was bad. She tried to stop them, convince them, now she had to pray that she wouldn’t have to do anything.

Well, of course I—

He frowned, noticing Ester's panic. When the light caught their eyes, they almost looked green rather than brown.

You really don't want me to follow through with this, do you? It's completely controlled.

I just want you to be safe, Cass… you’re my best friend.

If I get my father to approve the tests, will you quit worrying?

[...]

He grabbed his wrist tightly.

… It will help, yes.

Their eyes darted to his wrists, looking back up with worry and comfort in her eyes.

I'll talk to him and Otto... soon. Alright? Everything will be fine.

He opened his arms for a hug.

Thank you.

She leaned in, squeezing them and resting their head on his shoulder.

I love you a lot, dude. I don’t want you hurting yourself…

I love you, too, Est. I won't hurt myself.

He tried again to pull his sleeve down over his wrist and grumbled when it didn't stay.

Dang it, this fit me fine last week...

Ester nuzzled her nose into the crook of their neck. Their eyes noticed Cass messing with his sleeve.

Are you growing out of your clothes?

It would seem I am.

He shook his head in mild disappointment and began to rub Ester's back gently, trying to distract them from everything that just happened.

It's not unheard of to have a growth spurt at my age.

You’re going to be too tall for me to tease.

Ester laughed quietly, their fingers curling around the fabric of Cass’ shirt, completely melting into her friend.

I'm sure you'll find a way.

He leaned back, blinking slowly. He felt like he should be at home, but he wanted to be there for Ester after what he did.

You always find a way to tease.

Good… promise me we will stay like this forever.

She looked towards Cass.

Close friends like this…

Ester notices his sluggishness.

…You don’t have to stay.

... forever is a really long time, Est.

He yawned, moving their head back where it was.

I'm just a bit out of it. I'm alright.

If you feel like you need to rest you can sleep over. My aunts don’t mind.

Nah, I don't need my dad freaking out. But thank you for the offer, and thank you for understanding.

He gave her a very tight squeeze of a hug

Besides, I have to be in the lab early tomorrow.

Alright…. Does that mean you have to go soon?

Ester continued to curl up in the embrace, feeling safe and comforted in his arms, offering as much support she could as well.

He sighed, carefully fishing his phone out of his pocket without really letting go of Ester.

I guess I could let my dad know where I am. He'll probably want proof, but if I give it to him, I'm sure he'll be fine.

Good. Because I don’t want this moment to end.

They bury herself against Cass more and more, basically becoming a weighted blanket for him.

He called Norman and waited for him to answer, wrapping his arm around their shoulders.

Hey, da- yes, I'm okay.

[...]

Yes, I'm somewhere safe. Dad, I'm with Ester. You... yes, dad. Okay, let me— dad, calm down. I'm not lying. I... fine.

He pulled the phone away from himself

He wants to talk to you, if that's alright.

Of course.

Ester takes the phone, sitting up and putting the phone to her ear.

Hey Norman!

They say in a friendly tone.

Ester! I'm so sorry to bother you. Otto and I were worried when Cass didn't come home, and with how he's been behaving recently, we needed to be sure he wasn't lying to us. He hasn't hurt you, has he?

Hurting me? No of course not. We’ve just been talking all night. He’s been fine.

They debated on telling Norman and Otto about the throwing up blood; green blood. Best not, just in case. Esters mind flashes to the green goblin and shutters. She wonders how far the experiments Cass and Honey have been doing were working out.

How has he been acting at home, exactly?

Cass narrowed his eyes but stopped himself from grabbing the phone.

Well, he's hardly been home, but when he has been, he's been withdrawn, unfocused, erratic—

Secretive. Irritable. Like the average teenager.

Not like Cass, Otto. Not like Cass.

…. Do you want me to talk about it with him?

She covers her mouth and whispers into the phone.

No, it isn't your job to fix my poor parent—

We appreciate the offer, Ester. You're very kind. Thank you for being such a good friend to Cass. If you would like to talk with him, you are welcome to. Norman and I will speak with him when he gets home either way.

Alright I'm here anytime. Ready to help whatever way I can. Cass is awesome so I’m sure everything is going to be alright…

They reached over and hung up the phone, taking it out of Ester's hand.

I think I should go.

Cass? Is everything okay? I’m sorry I didn’t mean to overstep anything.

I won't let them make you a tool they use to try and fix us. Now, I should go. I need to have a discussion with my father.

You don’t need fixed! I’m not gonna be manipulated by them! Look whatever they said doesn’t matter. Please, don’t get hurt.

He stood up, not really caring if he knocked Ester off of them, and walked to the window.

This is a risk I have to take. I'm sorry you don't seem to understand that.

I… fine. Call me if it gets messy. And tell me when you get home! I don’t want you to get hurt. Or worse.

I'm not going home yet. I'll see you later.

Wha- where are you going?! Cass- Hon- whoever it is you have to talk to me! Where are you going?!

Oscorp.

They felt around in their pocket for his badge.

Even if you don't see why, I have to do this.

Why?! Your experiments can wait, can’t they?! Why are you in such a rush with this?!

It doesn't matter!

He stepped forward, lifting a hand up for emphasis. His sleeve moved again, revealing dark veins in his wrists that likely went up his arm. He didn't seem to notice.

Her mind lead them to stare at his wrist. She covered her mouth, audibly gasping, on the verge of tears. It was so much worse than they thought.

What are you...

Shit. It's not what it looks like. It's just a minor side effect. It'll be fine.

He reached out to touch their shoulder but paused, thinking better of it.

But what if you’re not fine?! What if then?!

Ester choked.

Hey, no, don't think like that, Est.

He wrapped his arms around her, trying to be reassuring.

Everything will be fine. I have it under control. It isn't as bad as it looks.

Ester sobbed, squeezing him closer and closer.

You better be in as much control as you say you are…

He cupped the back of Ester's head, hiding his face in their hair.

I'm as in control as I can be.

Don’t die on me.

She exhaled a breath of air. She laid her head on his chest, softly weeping.

...

I'm right here. I'm not going anywhere.

Good…

Ester’s sniffles soon calmed

You’re too important.

He rolled his eyes.

Please. Me? Important? Ha! You'd be fine without me if you really tried. You don't need me.

[...]

Sorry. That was probably the wrong thing to say. But it's true. You'd be completely fine without me.

Cass I swear…

She huffed.

Don’t do this to me.

Est, we're both changing. I can't go back to how I was before. I'm not dying, but I am changing. You realize that, right?

Yes, I do. I understand change is important, it’s a part of growing up. But I don’t think self experimentation is usually part of the process.

I'd argue that self experimentation is almost a requirement in the teen years.

He smiled, trying to lighten the mood just a bit.

Oh come on.. You know what I mean.

She couldn’t help but quietly chuckle.

Seriously though, I need to finish what I've started.

… Fine. But if you start hurting and not telling somebody about it, I will slap you.

I'll be fine.

He quickly grabbed the cloth again and turned away to cough violently into it.

Are ya sure about that?

He sighed.

Do you want complete honesty? The truth isn't pretty.

… Yeah.

He stepped back and took a deep breath in before slipping his shirt over his head. His torso was covered in patches of yellowish-green skin and red, irritated marks. His veins were more pronounced, and there were bruises covering his arms.

I told you it wasn't pretty.

Cass…

Ester covered her mouth, eventually reading out and tracing her hands over his shoulder.

God damn it…. Why?

He flinched at the touch.

I had to know, Ester. Now it's too late to turn back.

… Tell your dad and Otto about it. Please.

She said with watery eyes.

I can't, Ester! Dad's in bad enough shape as is! This would crush him!

But you’re in pain! It’s bad. Really bad! You have to talk to one of them! Otto, since you refuse to talk to your father.

I'll talk to them later. It's really not as bad as it looks, though.

Caaasss!

Ester stared at his torso, occasionally glancing back up at his face.

Please, when you leave, go home. Show them- this! This needs to be watched and taken care of.

I'm watching it. I'm taking care of it.

He went to scratch at an irritated spot on his neck but stopped.

Are you sure? It looks bad. Real bad.

It only hurts sometimes. It'll get better.

I swear if you’re lying to me, Cass…

Could you actually help us cover it up? You're good at makeup, right?

Only if you tell someone about this later.

She opened a drawer in their desk.

I promise I will tell someone. Maybe Peter.

He blushed.

Thanks.

Ooo, Peter, huh?

She teased, putting the foundation on a sponge brush, lightly tapping it onto Cass’ abdomen.

Of course.

Yeah, yeah. Tease all you want.

He bit his hand to stop himself from making any pained sounds.

I want to hear more about how much your obsessed with him. Ester worked on covering Cass’ skin, trying to find a specific shade from her palettes that would work for him.

Boy you are as pale as a ghost.

I'm not obsessed! I just... think he's cute. And sweet. And funny...

He frowned.

Sorry. I've been cooped up in the lab for the better part of three months.

You can do better than him. But it sounds like you’re hooked on him.

Ester lightly brushed the spot she was working on.

I know, I’m not judging. though this makeup makes you look a bit more orange for some reason. Am I really that tanned?

Wait, I have... uh...

He dug through his bag before pulling out a very pale foundation and some concealer.

I had no idea what I was getting.

Oh perfect. Look at you go, buying makeup. Never thought I’d see the day.

She takes the makeup from him and starts wiping off the layers of powder and liquid she has been trying to work with before dabbing it onto his skin.

Is it a better match? I really had no clue what I was doing.

He dug his nails into his palms to ignore the pain he felt from his skin being touched.

So much better. You did great.

Ester looks down at his hands, their fingers dancing across Cass’ knuckle.

Am I hurting you?

No, you're helping me cover this up.

He forced himself to smile.

I really appreciate you doing this for me.

Of course.

They could still sense his pain, trying to be as gentle as possible.

Do you want to talk with me to try and distract yourself? Or I can talk. Whatever helps.

I... ow, okay, maybe we should just cover the places that my shirt won't cover entirely. Sorry. We can talk if you—

He grabbed his side, just below his ribcage and winced.

If you want.

I’m just trying to distract you. Talking always distracts me from pain or stress.

Ester sat the brushes down and handed Cass’ shirt to him.

Thanks.

He tugged it on and kept his eyes closed. It shouldn't hurt this bad. He knows it shouldn't hurt this bad. But he can't admit that.

I think it's mostly my neck and arms that are visible.

Alright. Where shall I start first?

She spoke while in the middle of cleaning her makeup brushes.

I think the arms will hurt less.

He mentally smacked himself for admitting it hurt.

That’s what I thought.

Ester huffed again. They began to lightly apply makeup from the wrists up, pausing, the nearest to the shoulder and down, then meeting in the middle.

How’s it look?

Perfect. Thank you, Ester. You're an angel for helping me with this. I owe you.

He smiled at his arm. He hadn't seen it normal for months. It was refreshing to feel somewhat whole

It’s nothing! I’m not even done yet.

Ester grinned ear to ear, happy to see their best friend looking at peace for the first time since he got here.

You owe me nothing.

It's not nothing. I haven't felt like myself for months. At least now I look like me. And it's thanks to you.

Awww, you’re making me blush.

She switches sides and starts on his other arm

… I’m a bit curious… Is the experiments the only reason you haven’t been talking to me? Or responding to my texts?

They're.. ah, they're the main reason, yeah.

He patted the side of his leg repeatedly with the already finished hand.

Was there something else?

She murmured something to herself, focusing on the makeup.

I also just wanted to keep you away from this. To keep you safe. And Honey—

[...]

what? Seriously? Right now? Okay. And Henry didn't trust you.

You know you can always talk to me, Cass.

She switches brushes.

Also I’ve given Henry a chance, or at least tried, why doesn’t he like me?! Sure I can be a bit tense around him but I know he’s no real threat. He’s a good person.

He smirked.

You're naive.

I know there’s more than that, Henry.

She glanced up at his smirk and rolled their eyes.

Speak up.

He grabbed her wrist and looked them in the eyes.

You're pathetic and weak. You think we should hide ourselves. Quit before we reach our true potential.

Ester gasped, attempting to pull their wrist back.

What are you talking about?!

There was a knock on Ester's window. Cass was outside. Their hair was shorter than the last time they spoke to Ester, their chest flatter, their eyes red with dark circles around them, but they were smiling. They looked so much more like Norman than they used to.

@first-born-osborn

Hm? Cass! How are you? You haven’t text me in like a million years.

They opened the window wider, now getting a better look at her dear friend.

You look… different. I like it!

They practically fell into their room. There was a green liquid smudged on their lips. Their voice was deeper when they spoke, just enough to be immediately noticeable.

Hey... sorry to show up unannounced.

You’re fine! You know this place is always a safe place for y-…What is on your lips? Did you drink something?

Oh lord above please don’t be what I think it is.

Uh—

They touched their fingers to their lips and looked at them, licking the rest off their lips without much more than a panicked thought.

Just some tests. No big deal.

Cass what the hell?! What have you been doing?!

They sit close to their friend, panic setting in. Please don’t tell me that they were doing something stupid.

I... uh... you know about the whole Goblin thing and Honey and all that, right? Well... I'm continuing those tests.

Wh- Cass are you kidding me? Do you know how dangerous it is? You’ve seen what it does to your dad. I don’t want anything bad to happen to you!

Ester grabbed a towel and helped wipe the green liquid away. She sighed, thinking to themself.

…Why are you doing this?

I need answers, Est! I need to know what it will do if I don't quit like my father did.

They took the towel from Ester to get it themself and tugged their sleeve down to their palm

Your father became a madman, Cass. It’s dangerous! Look at you!

They stood up, throwing their arms in the air.

My father is not mad! This is controlled, Ester.

[...]

What do you mean, "Look at me?"

You’re right, you’re right, I’m sorry…. But I doubt it’s controlled, considering you’re coughing up mysterious green liquids.

They tilted her head.

What’s Honey saying this time?

The tests are perfectly safe! It's not some mysterious green liquid. I believe it is blood. And it doesn't matter what Honey said.

Bl- Cass! Your blood isn’t supposed to be green. This is definitely not as safe as you think they are!

They took a deep breath.

I’m sorry, I’m just… nervous for you…

...

Hey, if it goes green, and not in the good way, I'll tell my dad, alright? I just... this could be massive if it works. Think about it, Est. Imagine the possibilities.

I’d like to, Cass. But the sound of it just… I don’t like the sound of all this. Do you understand my concern?

If I'm honest, no. It hasn't hurt me yet, has it? None of my experiments have gone terribly wrong. And anyway, risks are part of laboratory science.

Ester huffed, reaching a hand out to be held, begging to be comforted.

I’ll believe you for now.

He took their hand and sat back down, frowning.

I'm completely fine, Est. I'll be fine. I haven't gone on a murderous, vengeful rampage, have I?

Yet.

Eater tried to laugh. They leaned on Cass’ shoulder.

…You better talk to your dad about this. And keep me updated.

Are you kidding?

He huffed, leaning back on his free hand.

He can't know. He'll shut it down out of paranoia to "protect me from myself."

Well duh, what you’re doing is dangerous!

They kept her head on his shoulder, squeezing their hand.

Maybe you should listen… even if it’s in the name of science… just saying.

It's too late for me to turn back, Ester.

They fiddled with his headphones.

[...]

He furrowed his brow.

I know… I just care about you a lot.

She sighs, looking up.

What’s wrong? Did I say something?

Mm. Not you. Honey. He's just telling me I should try again.

I don’t know how to think about that, Cass. I guess I’d prefer you’d do this under supervision… but Honey?

You got a problem with Honey?

No! Of course not…. I’m just, I dunno, a bit paranoid? You know how I am.

You always turn to that, hmm. Paranoia. It's getting harder and harder to believe you're not afraid of me.

… Heyyy Honey…

Ester moved up from lying on his shoulder.

I’m not scared at all! Obviously. I’m just skittish around people in general. Cass has seen me, I’m sure you have to.

I'm sure.

He quietly hummed the tune of The Itsy Bitsy Spider.

…What brings you out to visit me? Was it mentioning you or is there something else?

They tried to ignore the song. It was the nursery rhyme, maybe it was a different song with the same tune, like twinkle twinkle little star and the ABCS.

Oh, you know... when I heard you trying to convince Cassius to stop the tests, I had to do something.

The tests are dangerous, Honey. It’s hurting him and also your body. I can just.. tell.

We're just fine. True, there are some... side effects, but it's nothing we can't handle.

…I’m going to trust you both on this. But I swear if anything bad happens beyond this I will be extremely upset… I don’t want to see Cass getting hurt. You too, I guess.

How nice it is to know you care about me.

He coughed, quickly grabbing a cloth from his pocket and lifting it to his mouth, staining it green.

C- Honey! You seriously think coughing up green is okay?! Is it getting worse?

They looked down at the cloth.

I'll admit, that isn't ideal. But it's just one little side effect. It doesn't matter that there's more than last time.

Honey, Hon, I can call you Hon, right? You can be serious. Clearly this is effecting your health!

I'm completely serious. I'll talk to Norman if I must, but... I...

For the first time since they arrived, they looked nervous.

I really would rather not.

Why don’t either of you want to talk to Norman? Because he’ll talk you out of continuing his work? Talk you two out of doing something that will end up killing you or worse?

Deep breaths.

Sorry…

Because that "cure" those weird spider guys from another universe gave him didn't do the job, alright?! I don't want to put him under any more stress than he's already under with Oscorp and Gobby. Otto can only help so much. And before you ask, no, he doesn't know about this either...

However...

He felt his shoulder, finding a backpack strap and smiling. He pulled his bag into his lap and opened it, looking for a moment before producing a green-stained notebook. Honey and Cass' ability to work together seemed to have improved.

His research could prove to be useful...

You have to tell someone! I’m sorry that the other guys didn’t help like they thought they did but there’s gotta be another way besides experimenting on yourself! You have to get some help.

They noticed the bag, blinking and looking up at Cass and Honey’s face, her eyes widening, spider sense going off.

I don’t like that look on your face… do I dare ask what you’re looking at?

He flipped through several pages, their smile growing wider.

I have notes from one of those spider guys. Everything he learned about my father, the performance enhancers, all of it, and Otto's corrections and notes. I've been using them for a while, but I hadn't thought... I need to go.

He couldn't help but laugh to themself.

Wh- You’re going to leave? Now!?

Esters mind was pounding at her skull. They knew whatever was going to happen was bad. She tried to stop them, convince them, now she had to pray that she wouldn’t have to do anything.

Well, of course I—

He frowned, noticing Ester's panic. When the light caught their eyes, they almost looked green rather than brown.

You really don't want me to follow through with this, do you? It's completely controlled.

I just want you to be safe, Cass… you’re my best friend.

If I get my father to approve the tests, will you quit worrying?

[...]

He grabbed his wrist tightly.

… It will help, yes.

Their eyes darted to his wrists, looking back up with worry and comfort in her eyes.

I'll talk to him and Otto... soon. Alright? Everything will be fine.

He opened his arms for a hug.

Thank you.

She leaned in, squeezing them and resting their head on his shoulder.

I love you a lot, dude. I don’t want you hurting yourself…

I love you, too, Est. I won't hurt myself.

He tried again to pull his sleeve down over his wrist and grumbled when it didn't stay.

Dang it, this fit me fine last week...

Ester nuzzled her nose into the crook of their neck. Their eyes noticed Cass messing with his sleeve.

Are you growing out of your clothes?

It would seem I am.

He shook his head in mild disappointment and began to rub Ester's back gently, trying to distract them from everything that just happened.

It's not unheard of to have a growth spurt at my age.

You’re going to be too tall for me to tease.

Ester laughed quietly, their fingers curling around the fabric of Cass’ shirt, completely melting into her friend.

I'm sure you'll find a way.

He leaned back, blinking slowly. He felt like he should be at home, but he wanted to be there for Ester after what he did.

You always find a way to tease.

Good… promise me we will stay like this forever.

She looked towards Cass.

Close friends like this…

Ester notices his sluggishness.

…You don’t have to stay.

... forever is a really long time, Est.

He yawned, moving their head back where it was.

I'm just a bit out of it. I'm alright.

If you feel like you need to rest you can sleep over. My aunts don’t mind.

Nah, I don't need my dad freaking out. But thank you for the offer, and thank you for understanding.

He gave her a very tight squeeze of a hug

Besides, I have to be in the lab early tomorrow.

Alright…. Does that mean you have to go soon?

Ester continued to curl up in the embrace, feeling safe and comforted in his arms, offering as much support she could as well.

He sighed, carefully fishing his phone out of his pocket without really letting go of Ester.

I guess I could let my dad know where I am. He'll probably want proof, but if I give it to him, I'm sure he'll be fine.

Good. Because I don’t want this moment to end.

They bury herself against Cass more and more, basically becoming a weighted blanket for him.

He called Norman and waited for him to answer, wrapping his arm around their shoulders.

Hey, da- yes, I'm okay.

[...]

Yes, I'm somewhere safe. Dad, I'm with Ester. You... yes, dad. Okay, let me— dad, calm down. I'm not lying. I... fine.

He pulled the phone away from himself

He wants to talk to you, if that's alright.

Of course.

Ester takes the phone, sitting up and putting the phone to her ear.

Hey Norman!

They say in a friendly tone.

Ester! I'm so sorry to bother you. Otto and I were worried when Cass didn't come home, and with how he's been behaving recently, we needed to be sure he wasn't lying to us. He hasn't hurt you, has he?

Hurting me? No of course not. We’ve just been talking all night. He’s been fine.

They debated on telling Norman and Otto about the throwing up blood; green blood. Best not, just in case. Esters mind flashes to the green goblin and shutters. She wonders how far the experiments Cass and Honey have been doing were working out.

How has he been acting at home, exactly?

Cass narrowed his eyes but stopped himself from grabbing the phone.

Well, he's hardly been home, but when he has been, he's been withdrawn, unfocused, erratic—

Secretive. Irritable. Like the average teenager.

Not like Cass, Otto. Not like Cass.

…. Do you want me to talk about it with him?

She covers her mouth and whispers into the phone.

No, it isn't your job to fix my poor parent—

We appreciate the offer, Ester. You're very kind. Thank you for being such a good friend to Cass. If you would like to talk with him, you are welcome to. Norman and I will speak with him when he gets home either way.

Alright I'm here anytime. Ready to help whatever way I can. Cass is awesome so I’m sure everything is going to be alright…

They reached over and hung up the phone, taking it out of Ester's hand.

I think I should go.

Cass? Is everything okay? I’m sorry I didn’t mean to overstep anything.

I won't let them make you a tool they use to try and fix us. Now, I should go. I need to have a discussion with my father.

You don’t need fixed! I’m not gonna be manipulated by them! Look whatever they said doesn’t matter. Please, don’t get hurt.

He stood up, not really caring if he knocked Ester off of them, and walked to the window.

This is a risk I have to take. I'm sorry you don't seem to understand that.

I… fine. Call me if it gets messy. And tell me when you get home! I don’t want you to get hurt. Or worse.

I'm not going home yet. I'll see you later.

Wha- where are you going?! Cass- Hon- whoever it is you have to talk to me! Where are you going?!

Oscorp.

They felt around in their pocket for his badge.

Even if you don't see why, I have to do this.

Why?! Your experiments can wait, can’t they?! Why are you in such a rush with this?!

It doesn't matter!

He stepped forward, lifting a hand up for emphasis. His sleeve moved again, revealing dark veins in his wrists that likely went up his arm. He didn't seem to notice.

Her mind lead them to stare at his wrist. She covered her mouth, audibly gasping, on the verge of tears. It was so much worse than they thought.

What are you...

Shit. It's not what it looks like. It's just a minor side effect. It'll be fine.

He reached out to touch their shoulder but paused, thinking better of it.

But what if you’re not fine?! What if then?!

Ester choked.

Hey, no, don't think like that, Est.

He wrapped his arms around her, trying to be reassuring.

Everything will be fine. I have it under control. It isn't as bad as it looks.

Ester sobbed, squeezing him closer and closer.

You better be in as much control as you say you are…

He cupped the back of Ester's head, hiding his face in their hair.

I'm as in control as I can be.

Don’t die on me.

She exhaled a breath of air. She laid her head on his chest, softly weeping.

...

I'm right here. I'm not going anywhere.

Good…

Ester’s sniffles soon calmed

You’re too important.

He rolled his eyes.

Please. Me? Important? Ha! You'd be fine without me if you really tried. You don't need me.

[...]

Sorry. That was probably the wrong thing to say. But it's true. You'd be completely fine without me.

Cass I swear…

She huffed.

Don’t do this to me.

Est, we're both changing. I can't go back to how I was before. I'm not dying, but I am changing. You realize that, right?

Yes, I do. I understand change is important, it’s a part of growing up. But I don’t think self experimentation is usually part of the process.

I'd argue that self experimentation is almost a requirement in the teen years.

He smiled, trying to lighten the mood just a bit.

Oh come on.. You know what I mean.

She couldn’t help but quietly chuckle.

Seriously though, I need to finish what I've started.

… Fine. But if you start hurting and not telling somebody about it, I will slap you.

I'll be fine.

He quickly grabbed the cloth again and turned away to cough violently into it.

Are ya sure about that?

He sighed.

Do you want complete honesty? The truth isn't pretty.

… Yeah.

He stepped back and took a deep breath in before slipping his shirt over his head. His torso was covered in patches of yellowish-green skin and red, irritated marks. His veins were more pronounced, and there were bruises covering his arms.

I told you it wasn't pretty.

Cass…

Ester covered her mouth, eventually reading out and tracing her hands over his shoulder.

God damn it…. Why?

He flinched at the touch.

I had to know, Ester. Now it's too late to turn back.

… Tell your dad and Otto about it. Please.

She said with watery eyes.

I can't, Ester! Dad's in bad enough shape as is! This would crush him!

But you’re in pain! It’s bad. Really bad! You have to talk to one of them! Otto, since you refuse to talk to your father.

I'll talk to them later. It's really not as bad as it looks, though.

Caaasss!

Ester stared at his torso, occasionally glancing back up at his face.

Please, when you leave, go home. Show them- this! This needs to be watched and taken care of.

I'm watching it. I'm taking care of it.

He went to scratch at an irritated spot on his neck but stopped.

Are you sure? It looks bad. Real bad.

It only hurts sometimes. It'll get better.

I swear if you’re lying to me, Cass…

Could you actually help us cover it up? You're good at makeup, right?

Only if you tell someone about this later.

She opened a drawer in their desk.

I promise I will tell someone. Maybe Peter.

He blushed.

Thanks.

Ooo, Peter, huh?

She teased, putting the foundation on a sponge brush, lightly tapping it onto Cass’ abdomen.

Of course.

Yeah, yeah. Tease all you want.

He bit his hand to stop himself from making any pained sounds.

I want to hear more about how much your obsessed with him. Ester worked on covering Cass’ skin, trying to find a specific shade from her palettes that would work for him.

Boy you are as pale as a ghost.

I'm not obsessed! I just... think he's cute. And sweet. And funny...

He frowned.

Sorry. I've been cooped up in the lab for the better part of three months.

You can do better than him. But it sounds like you’re hooked on him.

Ester lightly brushed the spot she was working on.

I know, I’m not judging. though this makeup makes you look a bit more orange for some reason. Am I really that tanned?

Wait, I have... uh...

He dug through his bag before pulling out a very pale foundation and some concealer.

I had no idea what I was getting.

Oh perfect. Look at you go, buying makeup. Never thought I’d see the day.

She takes the makeup from him and starts wiping off the layers of powder and liquid she has been trying to work with before dabbing it onto his skin.

Is it a better match? I really had no clue what I was doing.

He dug his nails into his palms to ignore the pain he felt from his skin being touched.

So much better. You did great.

Ester looks down at his hands, their fingers dancing across Cass’ knuckle.

Am I hurting you?

No, you're helping me cover this up.

He forced himself to smile.

I really appreciate you doing this for me.

Of course.

They could still sense his pain, trying to be as gentle as possible.

Do you want to talk with me to try and distract yourself? Or I can talk. Whatever helps.

I... ow, okay, maybe we should just cover the places that my shirt won't cover entirely. Sorry. We can talk if you—

He grabbed his side, just below his ribcage and winced.

If you want.

I’m just trying to distract you. Talking always distracts me from pain or stress.

Ester sat the brushes down and handed Cass’ shirt to him.

Thanks.

He tugged it on and kept his eyes closed. It shouldn't hurt this bad. He knows it shouldn't hurt this bad. But he can't admit that.

I think it's mostly my neck and arms that are visible.

Alright. Where shall I start first?

She spoke while in the middle of cleaning her makeup brushes.

I think the arms will hurt less.

He mentally smacked himself for admitting it hurt.

That’s what I thought.

Ester huffed again. They began to lightly apply makeup from the wrists up, pausing, the nearest to the shoulder and down, then meeting in the middle.

How’s it look?

Perfect. Thank you, Ester. You're an angel for helping me with this. I owe you.

He smiled at his arm. He hadn't seen it normal for months. It was refreshing to feel somewhat whole

It’s nothing! I’m not even done yet.

Ester grinned ear to ear, happy to see their best friend looking at peace for the first time since he got here.

You owe me nothing.

It's not nothing. I haven't felt like myself for months. At least now I look like me. And it's thanks to you.

Awww, you’re making me blush.

She switches sides and starts on his other arm

… I’m a bit curious… Is the experiments the only reason you haven’t been talking to me? Or responding to my texts?

They're.. ah, they're the main reason, yeah.

He patted the side of his leg repeatedly with the already finished hand.

Was there something else?

She murmured something to herself, focusing on the makeup.

I also just wanted to keep you away from this. To keep you safe. And Honey—

[...]

what? Seriously? Right now? Okay. And Henry didn't trust you.

You know you can always talk to me, Cass.

She switches brushes.

Also I’ve given Henry a chance, or at least tried, why doesn’t he like me?! Sure I can be a bit tense around him but I know he’s no real threat. He’s a good person.

He smirked.

You're naive.

I know there’s more than that, Henry.

She glanced up at his smirk and rolled their eyes.

Speak up.

There was a knock on Ester's window. Cass was outside. Their hair was shorter than the last time they spoke to Ester, their chest flatter, their eyes red with dark circles around them, but they were smiling. They looked so much more like Norman than they used to.

@first-born-osborn

Hm? Cass! How are you? You haven’t text me in like a million years.

They opened the window wider, now getting a better look at her dear friend.

You look… different. I like it!

They practically fell into their room. There was a green liquid smudged on their lips. Their voice was deeper when they spoke, just enough to be immediately noticeable.

Hey... sorry to show up unannounced.

You’re fine! You know this place is always a safe place for y-…What is on your lips? Did you drink something?

Oh lord above please don’t be what I think it is.

Uh—

They touched their fingers to their lips and looked at them, licking the rest off their lips without much more than a panicked thought.

Just some tests. No big deal.

Cass what the hell?! What have you been doing?!

They sit close to their friend, panic setting in. Please don’t tell me that they were doing something stupid.

I... uh... you know about the whole Goblin thing and Honey and all that, right? Well... I'm continuing those tests.

Wh- Cass are you kidding me? Do you know how dangerous it is? You’ve seen what it does to your dad. I don’t want anything bad to happen to you!

Ester grabbed a towel and helped wipe the green liquid away. She sighed, thinking to themself.

…Why are you doing this?

I need answers, Est! I need to know what it will do if I don't quit like my father did.

They took the towel from Ester to get it themself and tugged their sleeve down to their palm

Your father became a madman, Cass. It’s dangerous! Look at you!

They stood up, throwing their arms in the air.

My father is not mad! This is controlled, Ester.

[...]

What do you mean, "Look at me?"

You’re right, you’re right, I’m sorry…. But I doubt it’s controlled, considering you’re coughing up mysterious green liquids.

They tilted her head.

What’s Honey saying this time?

The tests are perfectly safe! It's not some mysterious green liquid. I believe it is blood. And it doesn't matter what Honey said.

Bl- Cass! Your blood isn’t supposed to be green. This is definitely not as safe as you think they are!

They took a deep breath.

I’m sorry, I’m just… nervous for you…

...

Hey, if it goes green, and not in the good way, I'll tell my dad, alright? I just... this could be massive if it works. Think about it, Est. Imagine the possibilities.

I’d like to, Cass. But the sound of it just… I don’t like the sound of all this. Do you understand my concern?

If I'm honest, no. It hasn't hurt me yet, has it? None of my experiments have gone terribly wrong. And anyway, risks are part of laboratory science.

Ester huffed, reaching a hand out to be held, begging to be comforted.

I’ll believe you for now.

He took their hand and sat back down, frowning.

I'm completely fine, Est. I'll be fine. I haven't gone on a murderous, vengeful rampage, have I?

Yet.

Eater tried to laugh. They leaned on Cass’ shoulder.

…You better talk to your dad about this. And keep me updated.

Are you kidding?

He huffed, leaning back on his free hand.

He can't know. He'll shut it down out of paranoia to "protect me from myself."

Well duh, what you’re doing is dangerous!

They kept her head on his shoulder, squeezing their hand.

Maybe you should listen… even if it’s in the name of science… just saying.

It's too late for me to turn back, Ester.

They fiddled with his headphones.

[...]

He furrowed his brow.

I know… I just care about you a lot.

She sighs, looking up.

What’s wrong? Did I say something?

Mm. Not you. Honey. He's just telling me I should try again.

I don’t know how to think about that, Cass. I guess I’d prefer you’d do this under supervision… but Honey?

You got a problem with Honey?

No! Of course not…. I’m just, I dunno, a bit paranoid? You know how I am.

You always turn to that, hmm. Paranoia. It's getting harder and harder to believe you're not afraid of me.

… Heyyy Honey…

Ester moved up from lying on his shoulder.

I’m not scared at all! Obviously. I’m just skittish around people in general. Cass has seen me, I’m sure you have to.

I'm sure.

He quietly hummed the tune of The Itsy Bitsy Spider.

…What brings you out to visit me? Was it mentioning you or is there something else?

They tried to ignore the song. It was the nursery rhyme, maybe it was a different song with the same tune, like twinkle twinkle little star and the ABCS.

Oh, you know... when I heard you trying to convince Cassius to stop the tests, I had to do something.

The tests are dangerous, Honey. It’s hurting him and also your body. I can just.. tell.

We're just fine. True, there are some... side effects, but it's nothing we can't handle.

…I’m going to trust you both on this. But I swear if anything bad happens beyond this I will be extremely upset… I don’t want to see Cass getting hurt. You too, I guess.

How nice it is to know you care about me.

He coughed, quickly grabbing a cloth from his pocket and lifting it to his mouth, staining it green.

C- Honey! You seriously think coughing up green is okay?! Is it getting worse?

They looked down at the cloth.

I'll admit, that isn't ideal. But it's just one little side effect. It doesn't matter that there's more than last time.

Honey, Hon, I can call you Hon, right? You can be serious. Clearly this is effecting your health!

I'm completely serious. I'll talk to Norman if I must, but... I...

For the first time since they arrived, they looked nervous.

I really would rather not.

Why don’t either of you want to talk to Norman? Because he’ll talk you out of continuing his work? Talk you two out of doing something that will end up killing you or worse?

Deep breaths.

Sorry…

Because that "cure" those weird spider guys from another universe gave him didn't do the job, alright?! I don't want to put him under any more stress than he's already under with Oscorp and Gobby. Otto can only help so much. And before you ask, no, he doesn't know about this either...

However...

He felt his shoulder, finding a backpack strap and smiling. He pulled his bag into his lap and opened it, looking for a moment before producing a green-stained notebook. Honey and Cass' ability to work together seemed to have improved.

His research could prove to be useful...

You have to tell someone! I’m sorry that the other guys didn’t help like they thought they did but there’s gotta be another way besides experimenting on yourself! You have to get some help.

They noticed the bag, blinking and looking up at Cass and Honey’s face, her eyes widening, spider sense going off.

I don’t like that look on your face… do I dare ask what you’re looking at?

He flipped through several pages, their smile growing wider.

I have notes from one of those spider guys. Everything he learned about my father, the performance enhancers, all of it, and Otto's corrections and notes. I've been using them for a while, but I hadn't thought... I need to go.

He couldn't help but laugh to themself.

Wh- You’re going to leave? Now!?

Esters mind was pounding at her skull. They knew whatever was going to happen was bad. She tried to stop them, convince them, now she had to pray that she wouldn’t have to do anything.

Well, of course I—

He frowned, noticing Ester's panic. When the light caught their eyes, they almost looked green rather than brown.

You really don't want me to follow through with this, do you? It's completely controlled.

I just want you to be safe, Cass… you’re my best friend.

If I get my father to approve the tests, will you quit worrying?

[...]

He grabbed his wrist tightly.

… It will help, yes.

Their eyes darted to his wrists, looking back up with worry and comfort in her eyes.

I'll talk to him and Otto... soon. Alright? Everything will be fine.

He opened his arms for a hug.

Thank you.

She leaned in, squeezing them and resting their head on his shoulder.

I love you a lot, dude. I don’t want you hurting yourself…

I love you, too, Est. I won't hurt myself.

He tried again to pull his sleeve down over his wrist and grumbled when it didn't stay.

Dang it, this fit me fine last week...

Ester nuzzled her nose into the crook of their neck. Their eyes noticed Cass messing with his sleeve.

Are you growing out of your clothes?

It would seem I am.

He shook his head in mild disappointment and began to rub Ester's back gently, trying to distract them from everything that just happened.

It's not unheard of to have a growth spurt at my age.

You’re going to be too tall for me to tease.

Ester laughed quietly, their fingers curling around the fabric of Cass’ shirt, completely melting into her friend.

I'm sure you'll find a way.

He leaned back, blinking slowly. He felt like he should be at home, but he wanted to be there for Ester after what he did.

You always find a way to tease.

Good… promise me we will stay like this forever.

She looked towards Cass.

Close friends like this…

Ester notices his sluggishness.

…You don’t have to stay.

... forever is a really long time, Est.

He yawned, moving their head back where it was.

I'm just a bit out of it. I'm alright.

If you feel like you need to rest you can sleep over. My aunts don’t mind.

Nah, I don't need my dad freaking out. But thank you for the offer, and thank you for understanding.

He gave her a very tight squeeze of a hug

Besides, I have to be in the lab early tomorrow.

Alright…. Does that mean you have to go soon?

Ester continued to curl up in the embrace, feeling safe and comforted in his arms, offering as much support she could as well.

He sighed, carefully fishing his phone out of his pocket without really letting go of Ester.

I guess I could let my dad know where I am. He'll probably want proof, but if I give it to him, I'm sure he'll be fine.

Good. Because I don’t want this moment to end.

They bury herself against Cass more and more, basically becoming a weighted blanket for him.

He called Norman and waited for him to answer, wrapping his arm around their shoulders.

Hey, da- yes, I'm okay.

[...]

Yes, I'm somewhere safe. Dad, I'm with Ester. You... yes, dad. Okay, let me— dad, calm down. I'm not lying. I... fine.

He pulled the phone away from himself

He wants to talk to you, if that's alright.

Of course.

Ester takes the phone, sitting up and putting the phone to her ear.

Hey Norman!

They say in a friendly tone.

Ester! I'm so sorry to bother you. Otto and I were worried when Cass didn't come home, and with how he's been behaving recently, we needed to be sure he wasn't lying to us. He hasn't hurt you, has he?

Hurting me? No of course not. We’ve just been talking all night. He’s been fine.

They debated on telling Norman and Otto about the throwing up blood; green blood. Best not, just in case. Esters mind flashes to the green goblin and shutters. She wonders how far the experiments Cass and Honey have been doing were working out.

How has he been acting at home, exactly?

Cass narrowed his eyes but stopped himself from grabbing the phone.

Well, he's hardly been home, but when he has been, he's been withdrawn, unfocused, erratic—

Secretive. Irritable. Like the average teenager.

Not like Cass, Otto. Not like Cass.

…. Do you want me to talk about it with him?

She covers her mouth and whispers into the phone.

No, it isn't your job to fix my poor parent—

We appreciate the offer, Ester. You're very kind. Thank you for being such a good friend to Cass. If you would like to talk with him, you are welcome to. Norman and I will speak with him when he gets home either way.

Alright I'm here anytime. Ready to help whatever way I can. Cass is awesome so I’m sure everything is going to be alright…

They reached over and hung up the phone, taking it out of Ester's hand.

I think I should go.

Cass? Is everything okay? I’m sorry I didn’t mean to overstep anything.

I won't let them make you a tool they use to try and fix us. Now, I should go. I need to have a discussion with my father.

You don’t need fixed! I’m not gonna be manipulated by them! Look whatever they said doesn’t matter. Please, don’t get hurt.

He stood up, not really caring if he knocked Ester off of them, and walked to the window.

This is a risk I have to take. I'm sorry you don't seem to understand that.

I… fine. Call me if it gets messy. And tell me when you get home! I don’t want you to get hurt. Or worse.

I'm not going home yet. I'll see you later.

Wha- where are you going?! Cass- Hon- whoever it is you have to talk to me! Where are you going?!

Oscorp.

They felt around in their pocket for his badge.

Even if you don't see why, I have to do this.

Why?! Your experiments can wait, can’t they?! Why are you in such a rush with this?!

It doesn't matter!

He stepped forward, lifting a hand up for emphasis. His sleeve moved again, revealing dark veins in his wrists that likely went up his arm. He didn't seem to notice.

Her mind lead them to stare at his wrist. She covered her mouth, audibly gasping, on the verge of tears. It was so much worse than they thought.

What are you...

Shit. It's not what it looks like. It's just a minor side effect. It'll be fine.

He reached out to touch their shoulder but paused, thinking better of it.

But what if you’re not fine?! What if then?!

Ester choked.

Hey, no, don't think like that, Est.

He wrapped his arms around her, trying to be reassuring.

Everything will be fine. I have it under control. It isn't as bad as it looks.

Ester sobbed, squeezing him closer and closer.

You better be in as much control as you say you are…

He cupped the back of Ester's head, hiding his face in their hair.

I'm as in control as I can be.

Don’t die on me.

She exhaled a breath of air. She laid her head on his chest, softly weeping.

...

I'm right here. I'm not going anywhere.

Good…

Ester’s sniffles soon calmed

You’re too important.

He rolled his eyes.

Please. Me? Important? Ha! You'd be fine without me if you really tried. You don't need me.

[...]

Sorry. That was probably the wrong thing to say. But it's true. You'd be completely fine without me.

Cass I swear…

She huffed.

Don’t do this to me.

Est, we're both changing. I can't go back to how I was before. I'm not dying, but I am changing. You realize that, right?

Yes, I do. I understand change is important, it’s a part of growing up. But I don’t think self experimentation is usually part of the process.

I'd argue that self experimentation is almost a requirement in the teen years.

He smiled, trying to lighten the mood just a bit.

Oh come on.. You know what I mean.

She couldn’t help but quietly chuckle.

Seriously though, I need to finish what I've started.

… Fine. But if you start hurting and not telling somebody about it, I will slap you.

I'll be fine.

He quickly grabbed the cloth again and turned away to cough violently into it.

Are ya sure about that?

He sighed.

Do you want complete honesty? The truth isn't pretty.

… Yeah.

He stepped back and took a deep breath in before slipping his shirt over his head. His torso was covered in patches of yellowish-green skin and red, irritated marks. His veins were more pronounced, and there were bruises covering his arms.

I told you it wasn't pretty.

Cass…

Ester covered her mouth, eventually reading out and tracing her hands over his shoulder.

God damn it…. Why?

He flinched at the touch.

I had to know, Ester. Now it's too late to turn back.

… Tell your dad and Otto about it. Please.

She said with watery eyes.

I can't, Ester! Dad's in bad enough shape as is! This would crush him!

But you’re in pain! It’s bad. Really bad! You have to talk to one of them! Otto, since you refuse to talk to your father.

I'll talk to them later. It's really not as bad as it looks, though.

Caaasss!

Ester stared at his torso, occasionally glancing back up at his face.

Please, when you leave, go home. Show them- this! This needs to be watched and taken care of.

I'm watching it. I'm taking care of it.

He went to scratch at an irritated spot on his neck but stopped.

Are you sure? It looks bad. Real bad.

It only hurts sometimes. It'll get better.

I swear if you’re lying to me, Cass…

Could you actually help us cover it up? You're good at makeup, right?

Only if you tell someone about this later.

She opened a drawer in their desk.

I promise I will tell someone. Maybe Peter.

He blushed.

Thanks.

Ooo, Peter, huh?

She teased, putting the foundation on a sponge brush, lightly tapping it onto Cass’ abdomen.

Of course.

Yeah, yeah. Tease all you want.

He bit his hand to stop himself from making any pained sounds.

I want to hear more about how much your obsessed with him. Ester worked on covering Cass’ skin, trying to find a specific shade from her palettes that would work for him.

Boy you are as pale as a ghost.

I'm not obsessed! I just... think he's cute. And sweet. And funny...

He frowned.

Sorry. I've been cooped up in the lab for the better part of three months.

You can do better than him. But it sounds like you’re hooked on him.

Ester lightly brushed the spot she was working on.

I know, I’m not judging. though this makeup makes you look a bit more orange for some reason. Am I really that tanned?

Wait, I have... uh...

He dug through his bag before pulling out a very pale foundation and some concealer.

I had no idea what I was getting.

Oh perfect. Look at you go, buying makeup. Never thought I’d see the day.

She takes the makeup from him and starts wiping off the layers of powder and liquid she has been trying to work with before dabbing it onto his skin.

Is it a better match? I really had no clue what I was doing.

He dug his nails into his palms to ignore the pain he felt from his skin being touched.

So much better. You did great.

Ester looks down at his hands, their fingers dancing across Cass’ knuckle.

Am I hurting you?

No, you're helping me cover this up.

He forced himself to smile.

I really appreciate you doing this for me.

Of course.

They could still sense his pain, trying to be as gentle as possible.

Do you want to talk with me to try and distract yourself? Or I can talk. Whatever helps.

I... ow, okay, maybe we should just cover the places that my shirt won't cover entirely. Sorry. We can talk if you—

He grabbed his side, just below his ribcage and winced.

If you want.

I’m just trying to distract you. Talking always distracts me from pain or stress.

Ester sat the brushes down and handed Cass’ shirt to him.

Thanks.

He tugged it on and kept his eyes closed. It shouldn't hurt this bad. He knows it shouldn't hurt this bad. But he can't admit that.

I think it's mostly my neck and arms that are visible.

Alright. Where shall I start first?

She spoke while in the middle of cleaning her makeup brushes.

I think the arms will hurt less.

He mentally smacked himself for admitting it hurt.

That’s what I thought.

Ester huffed again. They began to lightly apply makeup from the wrists up, pausing, the nearest to the shoulder and down, then meeting in the middle.

How’s it look?

Perfect. Thank you, Ester. You're an angel for helping me with this. I owe you.

He smiled at his arm. He hadn't seen it normal for months. It was refreshing to feel somewhat whole

It’s nothing! I’m not even done yet.

Ester grinned ear to ear, happy to see their best friend looking at peace for the first time since he got here.

You owe me nothing.

It's not nothing. I haven't felt like myself for months. At least now I look like me. And it's thanks to you.

Awww, you’re making me blush.

She switches sides and starts on his other arm

… I’m a bit curious… Is the experiments the only reason you haven’t been talking to me? Or responding to my texts?

They're.. ah, they're the main reason, yeah.

He patted the side of his leg repeatedly with the already finished hand.

Was there something else?

She murmured something to herself, focusing on the makeup.

I also just wanted to keep you away from this. To keep you safe. And Honey—

[...]

what? Seriously? Right now? Okay. And Henry didn't trust you.

You know you can always talk to me, Cass.

She switches brushes.

Also I’ve given Henry a chance, or at least tried, why doesn’t he like me?! Sure I can be a bit tense around him but I know he’s no real threat. He’s a good person.

There was a knock on Ester's window. Cass was outside. Their hair was shorter than the last time they spoke to Ester, their chest flatter, their eyes red with dark circles around them, but they were smiling. They looked so much more like Norman than they used to.

@first-born-osborn

Hm? Cass! How are you? You haven’t text me in like a million years.

They opened the window wider, now getting a better look at her dear friend.

You look… different. I like it!

They practically fell into their room. There was a green liquid smudged on their lips. Their voice was deeper when they spoke, just enough to be immediately noticeable.

Hey... sorry to show up unannounced.

You’re fine! You know this place is always a safe place for y-…What is on your lips? Did you drink something?

Oh lord above please don’t be what I think it is.

Uh—

They touched their fingers to their lips and looked at them, licking the rest off their lips without much more than a panicked thought.

Just some tests. No big deal.

Cass what the hell?! What have you been doing?!

They sit close to their friend, panic setting in. Please don’t tell me that they were doing something stupid.

I... uh... you know about the whole Goblin thing and Honey and all that, right? Well... I'm continuing those tests.

Wh- Cass are you kidding me? Do you know how dangerous it is? You’ve seen what it does to your dad. I don’t want anything bad to happen to you!

Ester grabbed a towel and helped wipe the green liquid away. She sighed, thinking to themself.

…Why are you doing this?

I need answers, Est! I need to know what it will do if I don't quit like my father did.

They took the towel from Ester to get it themself and tugged their sleeve down to their palm

Your father became a madman, Cass. It’s dangerous! Look at you!

They stood up, throwing their arms in the air.

My father is not mad! This is controlled, Ester.

[...]

What do you mean, "Look at me?"

You’re right, you’re right, I’m sorry…. But I doubt it’s controlled, considering you’re coughing up mysterious green liquids.

They tilted her head.

What’s Honey saying this time?

The tests are perfectly safe! It's not some mysterious green liquid. I believe it is blood. And it doesn't matter what Honey said.

Bl- Cass! Your blood isn’t supposed to be green. This is definitely not as safe as you think they are!

They took a deep breath.

I’m sorry, I’m just… nervous for you…

...

Hey, if it goes green, and not in the good way, I'll tell my dad, alright? I just... this could be massive if it works. Think about it, Est. Imagine the possibilities.

I’d like to, Cass. But the sound of it just… I don’t like the sound of all this. Do you understand my concern?

If I'm honest, no. It hasn't hurt me yet, has it? None of my experiments have gone terribly wrong. And anyway, risks are part of laboratory science.

Ester huffed, reaching a hand out to be held, begging to be comforted.

I’ll believe you for now.

He took their hand and sat back down, frowning.

I'm completely fine, Est. I'll be fine. I haven't gone on a murderous, vengeful rampage, have I?

Yet.

Eater tried to laugh. They leaned on Cass’ shoulder.

…You better talk to your dad about this. And keep me updated.

Are you kidding?

He huffed, leaning back on his free hand.

He can't know. He'll shut it down out of paranoia to "protect me from myself."

Well duh, what you’re doing is dangerous!

They kept her head on his shoulder, squeezing their hand.

Maybe you should listen… even if it’s in the name of science… just saying.

It's too late for me to turn back, Ester.

They fiddled with his headphones.

[...]

He furrowed his brow.

I know… I just care about you a lot.

She sighs, looking up.

What’s wrong? Did I say something?

Mm. Not you. Honey. He's just telling me I should try again.

I don’t know how to think about that, Cass. I guess I’d prefer you’d do this under supervision… but Honey?

You got a problem with Honey?

No! Of course not…. I’m just, I dunno, a bit paranoid? You know how I am.

You always turn to that, hmm. Paranoia. It's getting harder and harder to believe you're not afraid of me.

… Heyyy Honey…

Ester moved up from lying on his shoulder.

I’m not scared at all! Obviously. I’m just skittish around people in general. Cass has seen me, I’m sure you have to.

I'm sure.

He quietly hummed the tune of The Itsy Bitsy Spider.

…What brings you out to visit me? Was it mentioning you or is there something else?

They tried to ignore the song. It was the nursery rhyme, maybe it was a different song with the same tune, like twinkle twinkle little star and the ABCS.

Oh, you know... when I heard you trying to convince Cassius to stop the tests, I had to do something.

The tests are dangerous, Honey. It’s hurting him and also your body. I can just.. tell.

We're just fine. True, there are some... side effects, but it's nothing we can't handle.

…I’m going to trust you both on this. But I swear if anything bad happens beyond this I will be extremely upset… I don’t want to see Cass getting hurt. You too, I guess.

How nice it is to know you care about me.

He coughed, quickly grabbing a cloth from his pocket and lifting it to his mouth, staining it green.

C- Honey! You seriously think coughing up green is okay?! Is it getting worse?

They looked down at the cloth.

I'll admit, that isn't ideal. But it's just one little side effect. It doesn't matter that there's more than last time.

Honey, Hon, I can call you Hon, right? You can be serious. Clearly this is effecting your health!

I'm completely serious. I'll talk to Norman if I must, but... I...

For the first time since they arrived, they looked nervous.

I really would rather not.

Why don’t either of you want to talk to Norman? Because he’ll talk you out of continuing his work? Talk you two out of doing something that will end up killing you or worse?

Deep breaths.

Sorry…

Because that "cure" those weird spider guys from another universe gave him didn't do the job, alright?! I don't want to put him under any more stress than he's already under with Oscorp and Gobby. Otto can only help so much. And before you ask, no, he doesn't know about this either...

However...

He felt his shoulder, finding a backpack strap and smiling. He pulled his bag into his lap and opened it, looking for a moment before producing a green-stained notebook. Honey and Cass' ability to work together seemed to have improved.

His research could prove to be useful...

You have to tell someone! I’m sorry that the other guys didn’t help like they thought they did but there’s gotta be another way besides experimenting on yourself! You have to get some help.

They noticed the bag, blinking and looking up at Cass and Honey’s face, her eyes widening, spider sense going off.

I don’t like that look on your face… do I dare ask what you’re looking at?

He flipped through several pages, their smile growing wider.

I have notes from one of those spider guys. Everything he learned about my father, the performance enhancers, all of it, and Otto's corrections and notes. I've been using them for a while, but I hadn't thought... I need to go.

He couldn't help but laugh to themself.

Wh- You’re going to leave? Now!?

Esters mind was pounding at her skull. They knew whatever was going to happen was bad. She tried to stop them, convince them, now she had to pray that she wouldn’t have to do anything.

Well, of course I—

He frowned, noticing Ester's panic. When the light caught their eyes, they almost looked green rather than brown.

You really don't want me to follow through with this, do you? It's completely controlled.

I just want you to be safe, Cass… you’re my best friend.

If I get my father to approve the tests, will you quit worrying?

[...]

He grabbed his wrist tightly.

… It will help, yes.

Their eyes darted to his wrists, looking back up with worry and comfort in her eyes.

I'll talk to him and Otto... soon. Alright? Everything will be fine.

He opened his arms for a hug.

Thank you.

She leaned in, squeezing them and resting their head on his shoulder.

I love you a lot, dude. I don’t want you hurting yourself…

I love you, too, Est. I won't hurt myself.

He tried again to pull his sleeve down over his wrist and grumbled when it didn't stay.

Dang it, this fit me fine last week...

Ester nuzzled her nose into the crook of their neck. Their eyes noticed Cass messing with his sleeve.

Are you growing out of your clothes?

It would seem I am.

He shook his head in mild disappointment and began to rub Ester's back gently, trying to distract them from everything that just happened.

It's not unheard of to have a growth spurt at my age.

You’re going to be too tall for me to tease.

Ester laughed quietly, their fingers curling around the fabric of Cass’ shirt, completely melting into her friend.

I'm sure you'll find a way.

He leaned back, blinking slowly. He felt like he should be at home, but he wanted to be there for Ester after what he did.

You always find a way to tease.

Good… promise me we will stay like this forever.

She looked towards Cass.

Close friends like this…

Ester notices his sluggishness.

…You don’t have to stay.

... forever is a really long time, Est.

He yawned, moving their head back where it was.

I'm just a bit out of it. I'm alright.

If you feel like you need to rest you can sleep over. My aunts don’t mind.

Nah, I don't need my dad freaking out. But thank you for the offer, and thank you for understanding.

He gave her a very tight squeeze of a hug

Besides, I have to be in the lab early tomorrow.

Alright…. Does that mean you have to go soon?

Ester continued to curl up in the embrace, feeling safe and comforted in his arms, offering as much support she could as well.

He sighed, carefully fishing his phone out of his pocket without really letting go of Ester.

I guess I could let my dad know where I am. He'll probably want proof, but if I give it to him, I'm sure he'll be fine.

Good. Because I don’t want this moment to end.

They bury herself against Cass more and more, basically becoming a weighted blanket for him.

He called Norman and waited for him to answer, wrapping his arm around their shoulders.

Hey, da- yes, I'm okay.

[...]

Yes, I'm somewhere safe. Dad, I'm with Ester. You... yes, dad. Okay, let me— dad, calm down. I'm not lying. I... fine.

He pulled the phone away from himself

He wants to talk to you, if that's alright.

Of course.

Ester takes the phone, sitting up and putting the phone to her ear.

Hey Norman!

They say in a friendly tone.

Ester! I'm so sorry to bother you. Otto and I were worried when Cass didn't come home, and with how he's been behaving recently, we needed to be sure he wasn't lying to us. He hasn't hurt you, has he?

Hurting me? No of course not. We’ve just been talking all night. He’s been fine.

They debated on telling Norman and Otto about the throwing up blood; green blood. Best not, just in case. Esters mind flashes to the green goblin and shutters. She wonders how far the experiments Cass and Honey have been doing were working out.

How has he been acting at home, exactly?

Cass narrowed his eyes but stopped himself from grabbing the phone.

Well, he's hardly been home, but when he has been, he's been withdrawn, unfocused, erratic—

Secretive. Irritable. Like the average teenager.

Not like Cass, Otto. Not like Cass.

…. Do you want me to talk about it with him?

She covers her mouth and whispers into the phone.

No, it isn't your job to fix my poor parent—

We appreciate the offer, Ester. You're very kind. Thank you for being such a good friend to Cass. If you would like to talk with him, you are welcome to. Norman and I will speak with him when he gets home either way.

Alright I'm here anytime. Ready to help whatever way I can. Cass is awesome so I’m sure everything is going to be alright…

They reached over and hung up the phone, taking it out of Ester's hand.

I think I should go.

Cass? Is everything okay? I’m sorry I didn’t mean to overstep anything.

I won't let them make you a tool they use to try and fix us. Now, I should go. I need to have a discussion with my father.

You don’t need fixed! I’m not gonna be manipulated by them! Look whatever they said doesn’t matter. Please, don’t get hurt.

He stood up, not really caring if he knocked Ester off of them, and walked to the window.

This is a risk I have to take. I'm sorry you don't seem to understand that.

I… fine. Call me if it gets messy. And tell me when you get home! I don’t want you to get hurt. Or worse.

I'm not going home yet. I'll see you later.

Wha- where are you going?! Cass- Hon- whoever it is you have to talk to me! Where are you going?!

Oscorp.

They felt around in their pocket for his badge.

Even if you don't see why, I have to do this.

Why?! Your experiments can wait, can’t they?! Why are you in such a rush with this?!

It doesn't matter!

He stepped forward, lifting a hand up for emphasis. His sleeve moved again, revealing dark veins in his wrists that likely went up his arm. He didn't seem to notice.

Her mind lead them to stare at his wrist. She covered her mouth, audibly gasping, on the verge of tears. It was so much worse than they thought.

What are you...

Shit. It's not what it looks like. It's just a minor side effect. It'll be fine.

He reached out to touch their shoulder but paused, thinking better of it.

But what if you’re not fine?! What if then?!

Ester choked.

Hey, no, don't think like that, Est.

He wrapped his arms around her, trying to be reassuring.

Everything will be fine. I have it under control. It isn't as bad as it looks.

Ester sobbed, squeezing him closer and closer.

You better be in as much control as you say you are…

He cupped the back of Ester's head, hiding his face in their hair.

I'm as in control as I can be.

Don’t die on me.

She exhaled a breath of air. She laid her head on his chest, softly weeping.

...

I'm right here. I'm not going anywhere.

Good…

Ester’s sniffles soon calmed

You’re too important.

He rolled his eyes.

Please. Me? Important? Ha! You'd be fine without me if you really tried. You don't need me.

[...]

Sorry. That was probably the wrong thing to say. But it's true. You'd be completely fine without me.

Cass I swear…

She huffed.

Don’t do this to me.

Est, we're both changing. I can't go back to how I was before. I'm not dying, but I am changing. You realize that, right?

Yes, I do. I understand change is important, it’s a part of growing up. But I don’t think self experimentation is usually part of the process.

I'd argue that self experimentation is almost a requirement in the teen years.

He smiled, trying to lighten the mood just a bit.

Oh come on.. You know what I mean.

She couldn’t help but quietly chuckle.

Seriously though, I need to finish what I've started.

… Fine. But if you start hurting and not telling somebody about it, I will slap you.

I'll be fine.

He quickly grabbed the cloth again and turned away to cough violently into it.

Are ya sure about that?

He sighed.

Do you want complete honesty? The truth isn't pretty.

… Yeah.

He stepped back and took a deep breath in before slipping his shirt over his head. His torso was covered in patches of yellowish-green skin and red, irritated marks. His veins were more pronounced, and there were bruises covering his arms.

I told you it wasn't pretty.

Cass…

Ester covered her mouth, eventually reading out and tracing her hands over his shoulder.

God damn it…. Why?

He flinched at the touch.

I had to know, Ester. Now it's too late to turn back.

… Tell your dad and Otto about it. Please.

She said with watery eyes.

I can't, Ester! Dad's in bad enough shape as is! This would crush him!

But you’re in pain! It’s bad. Really bad! You have to talk to one of them! Otto, since you refuse to talk to your father.

I'll talk to them later. It's really not as bad as it looks, though.

Caaasss!

Ester stared at his torso, occasionally glancing back up at his face.

Please, when you leave, go home. Show them- this! This needs to be watched and taken care of.

I'm watching it. I'm taking care of it.

He went to scratch at an irritated spot on his neck but stopped.

Are you sure? It looks bad. Real bad.

It only hurts sometimes. It'll get better.

I swear if you’re lying to me, Cass…

Could you actually help us cover it up? You're good at makeup, right?

Only if you tell someone about this later.

She opened a drawer in their desk.

I promise I will tell someone. Maybe Peter.

He blushed.

Thanks.

Ooo, Peter, huh?

She teased, putting the foundation on a sponge brush, lightly tapping it onto Cass’ abdomen.

Of course.

Yeah, yeah. Tease all you want.

He bit his hand to stop himself from making any pained sounds.

I want to hear more about how much your obsessed with him. Ester worked on covering Cass’ skin, trying to find a specific shade from her palettes that would work for him.

Boy you are as pale as a ghost.

I'm not obsessed! I just... think he's cute. And sweet. And funny...

He frowned.

Sorry. I've been cooped up in the lab for the better part of three months.

You can do better than him. But it sounds like you’re hooked on him.

Ester lightly brushed the spot she was working on.

I know, I’m not judging. though this makeup makes you look a bit more orange for some reason. Am I really that tanned?

Wait, I have... uh...

He dug through his bag before pulling out a very pale foundation and some concealer.

I had no idea what I was getting.

Oh perfect. Look at you go, buying makeup. Never thought I’d see the day.

She takes the makeup from him and starts wiping off the layers of powder and liquid she has been trying to work with before dabbing it onto his skin.

Is it a better match? I really had no clue what I was doing.

He dug his nails into his palms to ignore the pain he felt from his skin being touched.

So much better. You did great.

Ester looks down at his hands, their fingers dancing across Cass’ knuckle.

Am I hurting you?

No, you're helping me cover this up.

He forced himself to smile.

I really appreciate you doing this for me.

Of course.

They could still sense his pain, trying to be as gentle as possible.

Do you want to talk with me to try and distract yourself? Or I can talk. Whatever helps.

I... ow, okay, maybe we should just cover the places that my shirt won't cover entirely. Sorry. We can talk if you—

He grabbed his side, just below his ribcage and winced.

If you want.

I’m just trying to distract you. Talking always distracts me from pain or stress.

Ester sat the brushes down and handed Cass’ shirt to him.

Thanks.

He tugged it on and kept his eyes closed. It shouldn't hurt this bad. He knows it shouldn't hurt this bad. But he can't admit that.

I think it's mostly my neck and arms that are visible.

Alright. Where shall I start first?

She spoke while in the middle of cleaning her makeup brushes.

I think the arms will hurt less.

He mentally smacked himself for admitting it hurt.

That’s what I thought.

Ester huffed again. They began to lightly apply makeup from the wrists up, pausing, the nearest to the shoulder and down, then meeting in the middle.

How’s it look?

Perfect. Thank you, Ester. You're an angel for helping me with this. I owe you.

He smiled at his arm. He hadn't seen it normal for months. It was refreshing to feel somewhat whole

It’s nothing! I’m not even done yet.

Ester grinned ear to ear, happy to see their best friend looking at peace for the first time since he got here.

You owe me nothing.

It's not nothing. I haven't felt like myself for months. At least now I look like me. And it's thanks to you.

Awww, you’re making me blush.

She switches sides and starts on his other arm

… I’m a bit curious… Is the experiments the only reason you haven’t been talking to me? Or responding to my texts?

They're.. ah, they're the main reason, yeah.

He patted the side of his leg repeatedly with the already finished hand.

Was there something else?

She murmured something to herself, focusing on the makeup.

There was a knock on Ester's window. Cass was outside. Their hair was shorter than the last time they spoke to Ester, their chest flatter, their eyes red with dark circles around them, but they were smiling. They looked so much more like Norman than they used to.

@first-born-osborn

Hm? Cass! How are you? You haven’t text me in like a million years.

They opened the window wider, now getting a better look at her dear friend.

You look… different. I like it!

They practically fell into their room. There was a green liquid smudged on their lips. Their voice was deeper when they spoke, just enough to be immediately noticeable.

Hey... sorry to show up unannounced.

You’re fine! You know this place is always a safe place for y-…What is on your lips? Did you drink something?

Oh lord above please don’t be what I think it is.

Uh—

They touched their fingers to their lips and looked at them, licking the rest off their lips without much more than a panicked thought.

Just some tests. No big deal.

Cass what the hell?! What have you been doing?!

They sit close to their friend, panic setting in. Please don’t tell me that they were doing something stupid.

I... uh... you know about the whole Goblin thing and Honey and all that, right? Well... I'm continuing those tests.

Wh- Cass are you kidding me? Do you know how dangerous it is? You’ve seen what it does to your dad. I don’t want anything bad to happen to you!

Ester grabbed a towel and helped wipe the green liquid away. She sighed, thinking to themself.

…Why are you doing this?

I need answers, Est! I need to know what it will do if I don't quit like my father did.

They took the towel from Ester to get it themself and tugged their sleeve down to their palm

Your father became a madman, Cass. It’s dangerous! Look at you!

They stood up, throwing their arms in the air.

My father is not mad! This is controlled, Ester.

[...]

What do you mean, "Look at me?"

You’re right, you’re right, I’m sorry…. But I doubt it’s controlled, considering you’re coughing up mysterious green liquids.

They tilted her head.

What’s Honey saying this time?

The tests are perfectly safe! It's not some mysterious green liquid. I believe it is blood. And it doesn't matter what Honey said.

Bl- Cass! Your blood isn’t supposed to be green. This is definitely not as safe as you think they are!

They took a deep breath.

I’m sorry, I’m just… nervous for you…

...

Hey, if it goes green, and not in the good way, I'll tell my dad, alright? I just... this could be massive if it works. Think about it, Est. Imagine the possibilities.

I’d like to, Cass. But the sound of it just… I don’t like the sound of all this. Do you understand my concern?

If I'm honest, no. It hasn't hurt me yet, has it? None of my experiments have gone terribly wrong. And anyway, risks are part of laboratory science.

Ester huffed, reaching a hand out to be held, begging to be comforted.

I’ll believe you for now.

He took their hand and sat back down, frowning.

I'm completely fine, Est. I'll be fine. I haven't gone on a murderous, vengeful rampage, have I?

Yet.

Eater tried to laugh. They leaned on Cass’ shoulder.

…You better talk to your dad about this. And keep me updated.

Are you kidding?

He huffed, leaning back on his free hand.

He can't know. He'll shut it down out of paranoia to "protect me from myself."

Well duh, what you’re doing is dangerous!

They kept her head on his shoulder, squeezing their hand.

Maybe you should listen… even if it’s in the name of science… just saying.

It's too late for me to turn back, Ester.

They fiddled with his headphones.

[...]

He furrowed his brow.

I know… I just care about you a lot.

She sighs, looking up.

What’s wrong? Did I say something?

Mm. Not you. Honey. He's just telling me I should try again.

I don’t know how to think about that, Cass. I guess I’d prefer you’d do this under supervision… but Honey?

You got a problem with Honey?

No! Of course not…. I’m just, I dunno, a bit paranoid? You know how I am.

You always turn to that, hmm. Paranoia. It's getting harder and harder to believe you're not afraid of me.

… Heyyy Honey…

Ester moved up from lying on his shoulder.

I’m not scared at all! Obviously. I’m just skittish around people in general. Cass has seen me, I’m sure you have to.

I'm sure.

He quietly hummed the tune of The Itsy Bitsy Spider.

…What brings you out to visit me? Was it mentioning you or is there something else?

They tried to ignore the song. It was the nursery rhyme, maybe it was a different song with the same tune, like twinkle twinkle little star and the ABCS.

Oh, you know... when I heard you trying to convince Cassius to stop the tests, I had to do something.

The tests are dangerous, Honey. It’s hurting him and also your body. I can just.. tell.

We're just fine. True, there are some... side effects, but it's nothing we can't handle.

…I’m going to trust you both on this. But I swear if anything bad happens beyond this I will be extremely upset… I don’t want to see Cass getting hurt. You too, I guess.

How nice it is to know you care about me.

He coughed, quickly grabbing a cloth from his pocket and lifting it to his mouth, staining it green.

C- Honey! You seriously think coughing up green is okay?! Is it getting worse?

They looked down at the cloth.

I'll admit, that isn't ideal. But it's just one little side effect. It doesn't matter that there's more than last time.

Honey, Hon, I can call you Hon, right? You can be serious. Clearly this is effecting your health!

I'm completely serious. I'll talk to Norman if I must, but... I...

For the first time since they arrived, they looked nervous.

I really would rather not.

Why don’t either of you want to talk to Norman? Because he’ll talk you out of continuing his work? Talk you two out of doing something that will end up killing you or worse?

Deep breaths.

Sorry…

Because that "cure" those weird spider guys from another universe gave him didn't do the job, alright?! I don't want to put him under any more stress than he's already under with Oscorp and Gobby. Otto can only help so much. And before you ask, no, he doesn't know about this either...

However...

He felt his shoulder, finding a backpack strap and smiling. He pulled his bag into his lap and opened it, looking for a moment before producing a green-stained notebook. Honey and Cass' ability to work together seemed to have improved.

His research could prove to be useful...

You have to tell someone! I’m sorry that the other guys didn’t help like they thought they did but there’s gotta be another way besides experimenting on yourself! You have to get some help.

They noticed the bag, blinking and looking up at Cass and Honey’s face, her eyes widening, spider sense going off.

I don’t like that look on your face… do I dare ask what you’re looking at?

He flipped through several pages, their smile growing wider.

I have notes from one of those spider guys. Everything he learned about my father, the performance enhancers, all of it, and Otto's corrections and notes. I've been using them for a while, but I hadn't thought... I need to go.

He couldn't help but laugh to themself.

Wh- You’re going to leave? Now!?

Esters mind was pounding at her skull. They knew whatever was going to happen was bad. She tried to stop them, convince them, now she had to pray that she wouldn’t have to do anything.

Well, of course I—

He frowned, noticing Ester's panic. When the light caught their eyes, they almost looked green rather than brown.

You really don't want me to follow through with this, do you? It's completely controlled.

I just want you to be safe, Cass… you’re my best friend.

If I get my father to approve the tests, will you quit worrying?

[...]

He grabbed his wrist tightly.

… It will help, yes.

Their eyes darted to his wrists, looking back up with worry and comfort in her eyes.

I'll talk to him and Otto... soon. Alright? Everything will be fine.

He opened his arms for a hug.

Thank you.

She leaned in, squeezing them and resting their head on his shoulder.

I love you a lot, dude. I don’t want you hurting yourself…

I love you, too, Est. I won't hurt myself.

He tried again to pull his sleeve down over his wrist and grumbled when it didn't stay.

Dang it, this fit me fine last week...

Ester nuzzled her nose into the crook of their neck. Their eyes noticed Cass messing with his sleeve.

Are you growing out of your clothes?

It would seem I am.

He shook his head in mild disappointment and began to rub Ester's back gently, trying to distract them from everything that just happened.

It's not unheard of to have a growth spurt at my age.

You’re going to be too tall for me to tease.

Ester laughed quietly, their fingers curling around the fabric of Cass’ shirt, completely melting into her friend.

I'm sure you'll find a way.

He leaned back, blinking slowly. He felt like he should be at home, but he wanted to be there for Ester after what he did.

You always find a way to tease.

Good… promise me we will stay like this forever.

She looked towards Cass.

Close friends like this…

Ester notices his sluggishness.

…You don’t have to stay.

... forever is a really long time, Est.

He yawned, moving their head back where it was.

I'm just a bit out of it. I'm alright.

If you feel like you need to rest you can sleep over. My aunts don’t mind.

Nah, I don't need my dad freaking out. But thank you for the offer, and thank you for understanding.

He gave her a very tight squeeze of a hug

Besides, I have to be in the lab early tomorrow.

Alright…. Does that mean you have to go soon?

Ester continued to curl up in the embrace, feeling safe and comforted in his arms, offering as much support she could as well.

He sighed, carefully fishing his phone out of his pocket without really letting go of Ester.

I guess I could let my dad know where I am. He'll probably want proof, but if I give it to him, I'm sure he'll be fine.

Good. Because I don’t want this moment to end.

They bury herself against Cass more and more, basically becoming a weighted blanket for him.

He called Norman and waited for him to answer, wrapping his arm around their shoulders.

Hey, da- yes, I'm okay.

[...]

Yes, I'm somewhere safe. Dad, I'm with Ester. You... yes, dad. Okay, let me— dad, calm down. I'm not lying. I... fine.

He pulled the phone away from himself

He wants to talk to you, if that's alright.

Of course.

Ester takes the phone, sitting up and putting the phone to her ear.

Hey Norman!

They say in a friendly tone.

Ester! I'm so sorry to bother you. Otto and I were worried when Cass didn't come home, and with how he's been behaving recently, we needed to be sure he wasn't lying to us. He hasn't hurt you, has he?

Hurting me? No of course not. We’ve just been talking all night. He’s been fine.

They debated on telling Norman and Otto about the throwing up blood; green blood. Best not, just in case. Esters mind flashes to the green goblin and shutters. She wonders how far the experiments Cass and Honey have been doing were working out.

How has he been acting at home, exactly?

Cass narrowed his eyes but stopped himself from grabbing the phone.

Well, he's hardly been home, but when he has been, he's been withdrawn, unfocused, erratic—

Secretive. Irritable. Like the average teenager.

Not like Cass, Otto. Not like Cass.

…. Do you want me to talk about it with him?

She covers her mouth and whispers into the phone.

No, it isn't your job to fix my poor parent—

We appreciate the offer, Ester. You're very kind. Thank you for being such a good friend to Cass. If you would like to talk with him, you are welcome to. Norman and I will speak with him when he gets home either way.

Alright I'm here anytime. Ready to help whatever way I can. Cass is awesome so I’m sure everything is going to be alright…

They reached over and hung up the phone, taking it out of Ester's hand.

I think I should go.

Cass? Is everything okay? I’m sorry I didn’t mean to overstep anything.

I won't let them make you a tool they use to try and fix us. Now, I should go. I need to have a discussion with my father.

You don’t need fixed! I’m not gonna be manipulated by them! Look whatever they said doesn’t matter. Please, don’t get hurt.

He stood up, not really caring if he knocked Ester off of them, and walked to the window.

This is a risk I have to take. I'm sorry you don't seem to understand that.

I… fine. Call me if it gets messy. And tell me when you get home! I don’t want you to get hurt. Or worse.

I'm not going home yet. I'll see you later.

Wha- where are you going?! Cass- Hon- whoever it is you have to talk to me! Where are you going?!

Oscorp.

They felt around in their pocket for his badge.

Even if you don't see why, I have to do this.

Why?! Your experiments can wait, can’t they?! Why are you in such a rush with this?!

It doesn't matter!

He stepped forward, lifting a hand up for emphasis. His sleeve moved again, revealing dark veins in his wrists that likely went up his arm. He didn't seem to notice.

Her mind lead them to stare at his wrist. She covered her mouth, audibly gasping, on the verge of tears. It was so much worse than they thought.

What are you...

Shit. It's not what it looks like. It's just a minor side effect. It'll be fine.

He reached out to touch their shoulder but paused, thinking better of it.

But what if you’re not fine?! What if then?!

Ester choked.

Hey, no, don't think like that, Est.

He wrapped his arms around her, trying to be reassuring.

Everything will be fine. I have it under control. It isn't as bad as it looks.

Ester sobbed, squeezing him closer and closer.

You better be in as much control as you say you are…

He cupped the back of Ester's head, hiding his face in their hair.

I'm as in control as I can be.

Don’t die on me.

She exhaled a breath of air. She laid her head on his chest, softly weeping.

...

I'm right here. I'm not going anywhere.

Good…

Ester’s sniffles soon calmed

You’re too important.

He rolled his eyes.

Please. Me? Important? Ha! You'd be fine without me if you really tried. You don't need me.

[...]

Sorry. That was probably the wrong thing to say. But it's true. You'd be completely fine without me.

Cass I swear…

She huffed.

Don’t do this to me.

Est, we're both changing. I can't go back to how I was before. I'm not dying, but I am changing. You realize that, right?

Yes, I do. I understand change is important, it’s a part of growing up. But I don’t think self experimentation is usually part of the process.

I'd argue that self experimentation is almost a requirement in the teen years.

He smiled, trying to lighten the mood just a bit.

Oh come on.. You know what I mean.

She couldn’t help but quietly chuckle.

Seriously though, I need to finish what I've started.

… Fine. But if you start hurting and not telling somebody about it, I will slap you.

I'll be fine.

He quickly grabbed the cloth again and turned away to cough violently into it.

Are ya sure about that?

He sighed.

Do you want complete honesty? The truth isn't pretty.

… Yeah.

He stepped back and took a deep breath in before slipping his shirt over his head. His torso was covered in patches of yellowish-green skin and red, irritated marks. His veins were more pronounced, and there were bruises covering his arms.

I told you it wasn't pretty.

Cass…

Ester covered her mouth, eventually reading out and tracing her hands over his shoulder.

God damn it…. Why?

He flinched at the touch.

I had to know, Ester. Now it's too late to turn back.

… Tell your dad and Otto about it. Please.

She said with watery eyes.

I can't, Ester! Dad's in bad enough shape as is! This would crush him!

But you’re in pain! It’s bad. Really bad! You have to talk to one of them! Otto, since you refuse to talk to your father.

I'll talk to them later. It's really not as bad as it looks, though.

Caaasss!

Ester stared at his torso, occasionally glancing back up at his face.

Please, when you leave, go home. Show them- this! This needs to be watched and taken care of.

I'm watching it. I'm taking care of it.

He went to scratch at an irritated spot on his neck but stopped.

Are you sure? It looks bad. Real bad.

It only hurts sometimes. It'll get better.

I swear if you’re lying to me, Cass…

Could you actually help us cover it up? You're good at makeup, right?

Only if you tell someone about this later.

She opened a drawer in their desk.

I promise I will tell someone. Maybe Peter.

He blushed.

Thanks.

Ooo, Peter, huh?

She teased, putting the foundation on a sponge brush, lightly tapping it onto Cass’ abdomen.

Of course.

Yeah, yeah. Tease all you want.

He bit his hand to stop himself from making any pained sounds.

I want to hear more about how much your obsessed with him. Ester worked on covering Cass’ skin, trying to find a specific shade from her palettes that would work for him.

Boy you are as pale as a ghost.

I'm not obsessed! I just... think he's cute. And sweet. And funny...

He frowned.

Sorry. I've been cooped up in the lab for the better part of three months.

You can do better than him. But it sounds like you’re hooked on him.

Ester lightly brushed the spot she was working on.

I know, I’m not judging. though this makeup makes you look a bit more orange for some reason. Am I really that tanned?

Wait, I have... uh...

He dug through his bag before pulling out a very pale foundation and some concealer.

I had no idea what I was getting.

Oh perfect. Look at you go, buying makeup. Never thought I’d see the day.

She takes the makeup from him and starts wiping off the layers of powder and liquid she has been trying to work with before dabbing it onto his skin.

Is it a better match? I really had no clue what I was doing.

He dug his nails into his palms to ignore the pain he felt from his skin being touched.

So much better. You did great.

Ester looks down at his hands, their fingers dancing across Cass’ knuckle.

Am I hurting you?

No, you're helping me cover this up.

He forced himself to smile.

I really appreciate you doing this for me.

Of course.

They could still sense his pain, trying to be as gentle as possible.

Do you want to talk with me to try and distract yourself? Or I can talk. Whatever helps.

I... ow, okay, maybe we should just cover the places that my shirt won't cover entirely. Sorry. We can talk if you—

He grabbed his side, just below his ribcage and winced.

If you want.

I’m just trying to distract you. Talking always distracts me from pain or stress.

Ester sat the brushes down and handed Cass’ shirt to him.

Thanks.

He tugged it on and kept his eyes closed. It shouldn't hurt this bad. He knows it shouldn't hurt this bad. But he can't admit that.

I think it's mostly my neck and arms that are visible.

Alright. Where shall I start first?

She spoke while in the middle of cleaning her makeup brushes.

I think the arms will hurt less.

He mentally smacked himself for admitting it hurt.

That’s what I thought.

Ester huffed again. They began to lightly apply makeup from the wrists up, pausing, the nearest to the shoulder and down, then meeting in the middle.

How’s it look?

Perfect. Thank you, Ester. You're an angel for helping me with this. I owe you.

He smiled at his arm. He hadn't seen it normal for months. It was refreshing to feel somewhat whole

It’s nothing! I’m not even done yet.

Ester grinned ear to ear, happy to see their best friend looking at peace for the first time since he got here.

You owe me nothing.

It's not nothing. I haven't felt like myself for months. At least now I look like me. And it's thanks to you.

Awww, you’re making me blush.

She switches sides and starts on his other arm

… I’m a bit curious… Is the experiments the only reason you haven’t been talking to me? Or responding to my texts?

There was a knock on Ester's window. Cass was outside. Their hair was shorter than the last time they spoke to Ester, their chest flatter, their eyes red with dark circles around them, but they were smiling. They looked so much more like Norman than they used to.

@first-born-osborn

Hm? Cass! How are you? You haven’t text me in like a million years.

They opened the window wider, now getting a better look at her dear friend.

You look… different. I like it!

They practically fell into their room. There was a green liquid smudged on their lips. Their voice was deeper when they spoke, just enough to be immediately noticeable.

Hey... sorry to show up unannounced.

You’re fine! You know this place is always a safe place for y-…What is on your lips? Did you drink something?

Oh lord above please don’t be what I think it is.

Uh—

They touched their fingers to their lips and looked at them, licking the rest off their lips without much more than a panicked thought.

Just some tests. No big deal.

Cass what the hell?! What have you been doing?!

They sit close to their friend, panic setting in. Please don’t tell me that they were doing something stupid.

I... uh... you know about the whole Goblin thing and Honey and all that, right? Well... I'm continuing those tests.

Wh- Cass are you kidding me? Do you know how dangerous it is? You’ve seen what it does to your dad. I don’t want anything bad to happen to you!

Ester grabbed a towel and helped wipe the green liquid away. She sighed, thinking to themself.

…Why are you doing this?

I need answers, Est! I need to know what it will do if I don't quit like my father did.

They took the towel from Ester to get it themself and tugged their sleeve down to their palm

Your father became a madman, Cass. It’s dangerous! Look at you!

They stood up, throwing their arms in the air.

My father is not mad! This is controlled, Ester.

[...]

What do you mean, "Look at me?"

You’re right, you’re right, I’m sorry…. But I doubt it’s controlled, considering you’re coughing up mysterious green liquids.

They tilted her head.

What’s Honey saying this time?

The tests are perfectly safe! It's not some mysterious green liquid. I believe it is blood. And it doesn't matter what Honey said.

Bl- Cass! Your blood isn’t supposed to be green. This is definitely not as safe as you think they are!

They took a deep breath.

I’m sorry, I’m just… nervous for you…

...

Hey, if it goes green, and not in the good way, I'll tell my dad, alright? I just... this could be massive if it works. Think about it, Est. Imagine the possibilities.

I’d like to, Cass. But the sound of it just… I don’t like the sound of all this. Do you understand my concern?

If I'm honest, no. It hasn't hurt me yet, has it? None of my experiments have gone terribly wrong. And anyway, risks are part of laboratory science.

Ester huffed, reaching a hand out to be held, begging to be comforted.

I’ll believe you for now.

He took their hand and sat back down, frowning.

I'm completely fine, Est. I'll be fine. I haven't gone on a murderous, vengeful rampage, have I?

Yet.

Eater tried to laugh. They leaned on Cass’ shoulder.

…You better talk to your dad about this. And keep me updated.

Are you kidding?

He huffed, leaning back on his free hand.

He can't know. He'll shut it down out of paranoia to "protect me from myself."

Well duh, what you’re doing is dangerous!

They kept her head on his shoulder, squeezing their hand.

Maybe you should listen… even if it’s in the name of science… just saying.

It's too late for me to turn back, Ester.

They fiddled with his headphones.

[...]

He furrowed his brow.

I know… I just care about you a lot.

She sighs, looking up.

What’s wrong? Did I say something?

Mm. Not you. Honey. He's just telling me I should try again.

I don’t know how to think about that, Cass. I guess I’d prefer you’d do this under supervision… but Honey?

You got a problem with Honey?

No! Of course not…. I’m just, I dunno, a bit paranoid? You know how I am.

You always turn to that, hmm. Paranoia. It's getting harder and harder to believe you're not afraid of me.

… Heyyy Honey…

Ester moved up from lying on his shoulder.

I’m not scared at all! Obviously. I’m just skittish around people in general. Cass has seen me, I’m sure you have to.

I'm sure.

He quietly hummed the tune of The Itsy Bitsy Spider.

…What brings you out to visit me? Was it mentioning you or is there something else?

They tried to ignore the song. It was the nursery rhyme, maybe it was a different song with the same tune, like twinkle twinkle little star and the ABCS.

Oh, you know... when I heard you trying to convince Cassius to stop the tests, I had to do something.

The tests are dangerous, Honey. It’s hurting him and also your body. I can just.. tell.

We're just fine. True, there are some... side effects, but it's nothing we can't handle.

…I’m going to trust you both on this. But I swear if anything bad happens beyond this I will be extremely upset… I don’t want to see Cass getting hurt. You too, I guess.

How nice it is to know you care about me.

He coughed, quickly grabbing a cloth from his pocket and lifting it to his mouth, staining it green.

C- Honey! You seriously think coughing up green is okay?! Is it getting worse?

They looked down at the cloth.

I'll admit, that isn't ideal. But it's just one little side effect. It doesn't matter that there's more than last time.

Honey, Hon, I can call you Hon, right? You can be serious. Clearly this is effecting your health!

I'm completely serious. I'll talk to Norman if I must, but... I...

For the first time since they arrived, they looked nervous.

I really would rather not.

Why don’t either of you want to talk to Norman? Because he’ll talk you out of continuing his work? Talk you two out of doing something that will end up killing you or worse?

Deep breaths.

Sorry…

Because that "cure" those weird spider guys from another universe gave him didn't do the job, alright?! I don't want to put him under any more stress than he's already under with Oscorp and Gobby. Otto can only help so much. And before you ask, no, he doesn't know about this either...

However...

He felt his shoulder, finding a backpack strap and smiling. He pulled his bag into his lap and opened it, looking for a moment before producing a green-stained notebook. Honey and Cass' ability to work together seemed to have improved.

His research could prove to be useful...

You have to tell someone! I’m sorry that the other guys didn’t help like they thought they did but there’s gotta be another way besides experimenting on yourself! You have to get some help.

They noticed the bag, blinking and looking up at Cass and Honey’s face, her eyes widening, spider sense going off.

I don’t like that look on your face… do I dare ask what you’re looking at?

He flipped through several pages, their smile growing wider.

I have notes from one of those spider guys. Everything he learned about my father, the performance enhancers, all of it, and Otto's corrections and notes. I've been using them for a while, but I hadn't thought... I need to go.

He couldn't help but laugh to themself.

Wh- You’re going to leave? Now!?

Esters mind was pounding at her skull. They knew whatever was going to happen was bad. She tried to stop them, convince them, now she had to pray that she wouldn’t have to do anything.

Well, of course I—

He frowned, noticing Ester's panic. When the light caught their eyes, they almost looked green rather than brown.

You really don't want me to follow through with this, do you? It's completely controlled.

I just want you to be safe, Cass… you’re my best friend.

If I get my father to approve the tests, will you quit worrying?

[...]

He grabbed his wrist tightly.

… It will help, yes.

Their eyes darted to his wrists, looking back up with worry and comfort in her eyes.

I'll talk to him and Otto... soon. Alright? Everything will be fine.

He opened his arms for a hug.

Thank you.

She leaned in, squeezing them and resting their head on his shoulder.

I love you a lot, dude. I don’t want you hurting yourself…

I love you, too, Est. I won't hurt myself.

He tried again to pull his sleeve down over his wrist and grumbled when it didn't stay.

Dang it, this fit me fine last week...

Ester nuzzled her nose into the crook of their neck. Their eyes noticed Cass messing with his sleeve.

Are you growing out of your clothes?

It would seem I am.

He shook his head in mild disappointment and began to rub Ester's back gently, trying to distract them from everything that just happened.

It's not unheard of to have a growth spurt at my age.

You’re going to be too tall for me to tease.

Ester laughed quietly, their fingers curling around the fabric of Cass’ shirt, completely melting into her friend.

I'm sure you'll find a way.

He leaned back, blinking slowly. He felt like he should be at home, but he wanted to be there for Ester after what he did.

You always find a way to tease.

Good… promise me we will stay like this forever.

She looked towards Cass.

Close friends like this…

Ester notices his sluggishness.

…You don’t have to stay.

... forever is a really long time, Est.

He yawned, moving their head back where it was.

I'm just a bit out of it. I'm alright.

If you feel like you need to rest you can sleep over. My aunts don’t mind.

Nah, I don't need my dad freaking out. But thank you for the offer, and thank you for understanding.

He gave her a very tight squeeze of a hug

Besides, I have to be in the lab early tomorrow.

Alright…. Does that mean you have to go soon?

Ester continued to curl up in the embrace, feeling safe and comforted in his arms, offering as much support she could as well.

He sighed, carefully fishing his phone out of his pocket without really letting go of Ester.

I guess I could let my dad know where I am. He'll probably want proof, but if I give it to him, I'm sure he'll be fine.

Good. Because I don’t want this moment to end.

They bury herself against Cass more and more, basically becoming a weighted blanket for him.

He called Norman and waited for him to answer, wrapping his arm around their shoulders.

Hey, da- yes, I'm okay.

[...]

Yes, I'm somewhere safe. Dad, I'm with Ester. You... yes, dad. Okay, let me— dad, calm down. I'm not lying. I... fine.

He pulled the phone away from himself

He wants to talk to you, if that's alright.

Of course.

Ester takes the phone, sitting up and putting the phone to her ear.

Hey Norman!

They say in a friendly tone.

Ester! I'm so sorry to bother you. Otto and I were worried when Cass didn't come home, and with how he's been behaving recently, we needed to be sure he wasn't lying to us. He hasn't hurt you, has he?

Hurting me? No of course not. We’ve just been talking all night. He’s been fine.

They debated on telling Norman and Otto about the throwing up blood; green blood. Best not, just in case. Esters mind flashes to the green goblin and shutters. She wonders how far the experiments Cass and Honey have been doing were working out.

How has he been acting at home, exactly?

Cass narrowed his eyes but stopped himself from grabbing the phone.

Well, he's hardly been home, but when he has been, he's been withdrawn, unfocused, erratic—

Secretive. Irritable. Like the average teenager.

Not like Cass, Otto. Not like Cass.

…. Do you want me to talk about it with him?

She covers her mouth and whispers into the phone.

No, it isn't your job to fix my poor parent—

We appreciate the offer, Ester. You're very kind. Thank you for being such a good friend to Cass. If you would like to talk with him, you are welcome to. Norman and I will speak with him when he gets home either way.

Alright I'm here anytime. Ready to help whatever way I can. Cass is awesome so I’m sure everything is going to be alright…

They reached over and hung up the phone, taking it out of Ester's hand.

I think I should go.

Cass? Is everything okay? I’m sorry I didn’t mean to overstep anything.

I won't let them make you a tool they use to try and fix us. Now, I should go. I need to have a discussion with my father.

You don’t need fixed! I’m not gonna be manipulated by them! Look whatever they said doesn’t matter. Please, don’t get hurt.

He stood up, not really caring if he knocked Ester off of them, and walked to the window.

This is a risk I have to take. I'm sorry you don't seem to understand that.

I… fine. Call me if it gets messy. And tell me when you get home! I don’t want you to get hurt. Or worse.

I'm not going home yet. I'll see you later.

Wha- where are you going?! Cass- Hon- whoever it is you have to talk to me! Where are you going?!

Oscorp.

They felt around in their pocket for his badge.

Even if you don't see why, I have to do this.

Why?! Your experiments can wait, can’t they?! Why are you in such a rush with this?!

It doesn't matter!

He stepped forward, lifting a hand up for emphasis. His sleeve moved again, revealing dark veins in his wrists that likely went up his arm. He didn't seem to notice.

Her mind lead them to stare at his wrist. She covered her mouth, audibly gasping, on the verge of tears. It was so much worse than they thought.

What are you...

Shit. It's not what it looks like. It's just a minor side effect. It'll be fine.

He reached out to touch their shoulder but paused, thinking better of it.

But what if you’re not fine?! What if then?!

Ester choked.

Hey, no, don't think like that, Est.

He wrapped his arms around her, trying to be reassuring.

Everything will be fine. I have it under control. It isn't as bad as it looks.

Ester sobbed, squeezing him closer and closer.

You better be in as much control as you say you are…

He cupped the back of Ester's head, hiding his face in their hair.

I'm as in control as I can be.

Don’t die on me.

She exhaled a breath of air. She laid her head on his chest, softly weeping.

...

I'm right here. I'm not going anywhere.

Good…

Ester’s sniffles soon calmed

You’re too important.

He rolled his eyes.

Please. Me? Important? Ha! You'd be fine without me if you really tried. You don't need me.

[...]

Sorry. That was probably the wrong thing to say. But it's true. You'd be completely fine without me.

Cass I swear…

She huffed.

Don’t do this to me.

Est, we're both changing. I can't go back to how I was before. I'm not dying, but I am changing. You realize that, right?

Yes, I do. I understand change is important, it’s a part of growing up. But I don’t think self experimentation is usually part of the process.

I'd argue that self experimentation is almost a requirement in the teen years.

He smiled, trying to lighten the mood just a bit.

Oh come on.. You know what I mean.

She couldn’t help but quietly chuckle.

Seriously though, I need to finish what I've started.

… Fine. But if you start hurting and not telling somebody about it, I will slap you.

I'll be fine.

He quickly grabbed the cloth again and turned away to cough violently into it.

Are ya sure about that?

He sighed.

Do you want complete honesty? The truth isn't pretty.

… Yeah.

He stepped back and took a deep breath in before slipping his shirt over his head. His torso was covered in patches of yellowish-green skin and red, irritated marks. His veins were more pronounced, and there were bruises covering his arms.

I told you it wasn't pretty.

Cass…

Ester covered her mouth, eventually reading out and tracing her hands over his shoulder.

God damn it…. Why?

He flinched at the touch.

I had to know, Ester. Now it's too late to turn back.

… Tell your dad and Otto about it. Please.

She said with watery eyes.

I can't, Ester! Dad's in bad enough shape as is! This would crush him!

But you’re in pain! It’s bad. Really bad! You have to talk to one of them! Otto, since you refuse to talk to your father.

I'll talk to them later. It's really not as bad as it looks, though.

Caaasss!

Ester stared at his torso, occasionally glancing back up at his face.

Please, when you leave, go home. Show them- this! This needs to be watched and taken care of.

I'm watching it. I'm taking care of it.

He went to scratch at an irritated spot on his neck but stopped.

Are you sure? It looks bad. Real bad.

It only hurts sometimes. It'll get better.

I swear if you’re lying to me, Cass…

Could you actually help us cover it up? You're good at makeup, right?

Only if you tell someone about this later.

She opened a drawer in their desk.

I promise I will tell someone. Maybe Peter.

He blushed.

Thanks.

Ooo, Peter, huh?

She teased, putting the foundation on a sponge brush, lightly tapping it onto Cass’ abdomen.

Of course.

Yeah, yeah. Tease all you want.

He bit his hand to stop himself from making any pained sounds.

I want to hear more about how much your obsessed with him. Ester worked on covering Cass’ skin, trying to find a specific shade from her palettes that would work for him.

Boy you are as pale as a ghost.

I'm not obsessed! I just... think he's cute. And sweet. And funny...

He frowned.

Sorry. I've been cooped up in the lab for the better part of three months.

You can do better than him. But it sounds like you’re hooked on him.

Ester lightly brushed the spot she was working on.

I know, I’m not judging. though this makeup makes you look a bit more orange for some reason. Am I really that tanned?

Wait, I have... uh...

He dug through his bag before pulling out a very pale foundation and some concealer.

I had no idea what I was getting.

Oh perfect. Look at you go, buying makeup. Never thought I’d see the day.

She takes the makeup from him and starts wiping off the layers of powder and liquid she has been trying to work with before dabbing it onto his skin.

Is it a better match? I really had no clue what I was doing.

He dug his nails into his palms to ignore the pain he felt from his skin being touched.

So much better. You did great.

Ester looks down at his hands, their fingers dancing across Cass’ knuckle.

Am I hurting you?

No, you're helping me cover this up.

He forced himself to smile.

I really appreciate you doing this for me.

Of course.

They could still sense his pain, trying to be as gentle as possible.

Do you want to talk with me to try and distract yourself? Or I can talk. Whatever helps.

I... ow, okay, maybe we should just cover the places that my shirt won't cover entirely. Sorry. We can talk if you—

He grabbed his side, just below his ribcage and winced.

If you want.

I’m just trying to distract you. Talking always distracts me from pain or stress.

Ester sat the brushes down and handed Cass’ shirt to him.

Thanks.

He tugged it on and kept his eyes closed. It shouldn't hurt this bad. He knows it shouldn't hurt this bad. But he can't admit that.

I think it's mostly my neck and arms that are visible.

Alright. Where shall I start first?

She spoke while in the middle of cleaning her makeup brushes.

I think the arms will hurt less.

He mentally smacked himself for admitting it hurt.

That’s what I thought.

Ester huffed again. They began to lightly apply makeup from the wrists up, pausing, the nearest to the shoulder and down, then meeting in the middle.

How’s it look?

Perfect. Thank you, Ester. You're an angel for helping me with this. I owe you.

He smiled at his arm. He hadn't seen it normal for months. It was refreshing to feel somewhat whole

It’s nothing! I’m not even done yet.

Ester grinned ear to ear, happy to see their best friend looking at peace for the first time since he got here.

You owe me nothing.

There was a knock on Ester's window. Cass was outside. Their hair was shorter than the last time they spoke to Ester, their chest flatter, their eyes red with dark circles around them, but they were smiling. They looked so much more like Norman than they used to.

@first-born-osborn

Hm? Cass! How are you? You haven’t text me in like a million years.

They opened the window wider, now getting a better look at her dear friend.

You look… different. I like it!

They practically fell into their room. There was a green liquid smudged on their lips. Their voice was deeper when they spoke, just enough to be immediately noticeable.

Hey... sorry to show up unannounced.

You’re fine! You know this place is always a safe place for y-…What is on your lips? Did you drink something?

Oh lord above please don’t be what I think it is.

Uh—

They touched their fingers to their lips and looked at them, licking the rest off their lips without much more than a panicked thought.

Just some tests. No big deal.

Cass what the hell?! What have you been doing?!

They sit close to their friend, panic setting in. Please don’t tell me that they were doing something stupid.

I... uh... you know about the whole Goblin thing and Honey and all that, right? Well... I'm continuing those tests.

Wh- Cass are you kidding me? Do you know how dangerous it is? You’ve seen what it does to your dad. I don’t want anything bad to happen to you!

Ester grabbed a towel and helped wipe the green liquid away. She sighed, thinking to themself.

…Why are you doing this?

I need answers, Est! I need to know what it will do if I don't quit like my father did.

They took the towel from Ester to get it themself and tugged their sleeve down to their palm

Your father became a madman, Cass. It’s dangerous! Look at you!

They stood up, throwing their arms in the air.

My father is not mad! This is controlled, Ester.

[...]

What do you mean, "Look at me?"

You’re right, you’re right, I’m sorry…. But I doubt it’s controlled, considering you’re coughing up mysterious green liquids.

They tilted her head.

What’s Honey saying this time?

The tests are perfectly safe! It's not some mysterious green liquid. I believe it is blood. And it doesn't matter what Honey said.

Bl- Cass! Your blood isn’t supposed to be green. This is definitely not as safe as you think they are!

They took a deep breath.

I’m sorry, I’m just… nervous for you…

...

Hey, if it goes green, and not in the good way, I'll tell my dad, alright? I just... this could be massive if it works. Think about it, Est. Imagine the possibilities.

I’d like to, Cass. But the sound of it just… I don’t like the sound of all this. Do you understand my concern?

If I'm honest, no. It hasn't hurt me yet, has it? None of my experiments have gone terribly wrong. And anyway, risks are part of laboratory science.

Ester huffed, reaching a hand out to be held, begging to be comforted.

I’ll believe you for now.

He took their hand and sat back down, frowning.

I'm completely fine, Est. I'll be fine. I haven't gone on a murderous, vengeful rampage, have I?

Yet.

Eater tried to laugh. They leaned on Cass’ shoulder.

…You better talk to your dad about this. And keep me updated.

Are you kidding?

He huffed, leaning back on his free hand.

He can't know. He'll shut it down out of paranoia to "protect me from myself."

Well duh, what you’re doing is dangerous!

They kept her head on his shoulder, squeezing their hand.

Maybe you should listen… even if it’s in the name of science… just saying.

It's too late for me to turn back, Ester.

They fiddled with his headphones.

[...]

He furrowed his brow.

I know… I just care about you a lot.

She sighs, looking up.

What’s wrong? Did I say something?

Mm. Not you. Honey. He's just telling me I should try again.

I don’t know how to think about that, Cass. I guess I’d prefer you’d do this under supervision… but Honey?

You got a problem with Honey?

No! Of course not…. I’m just, I dunno, a bit paranoid? You know how I am.

You always turn to that, hmm. Paranoia. It's getting harder and harder to believe you're not afraid of me.

… Heyyy Honey…

Ester moved up from lying on his shoulder.

I’m not scared at all! Obviously. I’m just skittish around people in general. Cass has seen me, I’m sure you have to.

I'm sure.

He quietly hummed the tune of The Itsy Bitsy Spider.

…What brings you out to visit me? Was it mentioning you or is there something else?

They tried to ignore the song. It was the nursery rhyme, maybe it was a different song with the same tune, like twinkle twinkle little star and the ABCS.

Oh, you know... when I heard you trying to convince Cassius to stop the tests, I had to do something.

The tests are dangerous, Honey. It’s hurting him and also your body. I can just.. tell.

We're just fine. True, there are some... side effects, but it's nothing we can't handle.

…I’m going to trust you both on this. But I swear if anything bad happens beyond this I will be extremely upset… I don’t want to see Cass getting hurt. You too, I guess.

How nice it is to know you care about me.

He coughed, quickly grabbing a cloth from his pocket and lifting it to his mouth, staining it green.

C- Honey! You seriously think coughing up green is okay?! Is it getting worse?

They looked down at the cloth.

I'll admit, that isn't ideal. But it's just one little side effect. It doesn't matter that there's more than last time.

Honey, Hon, I can call you Hon, right? You can be serious. Clearly this is effecting your health!

I'm completely serious. I'll talk to Norman if I must, but... I...

For the first time since they arrived, they looked nervous.

I really would rather not.

Why don’t either of you want to talk to Norman? Because he’ll talk you out of continuing his work? Talk you two out of doing something that will end up killing you or worse?

Deep breaths.

Sorry…

Because that "cure" those weird spider guys from another universe gave him didn't do the job, alright?! I don't want to put him under any more stress than he's already under with Oscorp and Gobby. Otto can only help so much. And before you ask, no, he doesn't know about this either...

However...

He felt his shoulder, finding a backpack strap and smiling. He pulled his bag into his lap and opened it, looking for a moment before producing a green-stained notebook. Honey and Cass' ability to work together seemed to have improved.

His research could prove to be useful...

You have to tell someone! I’m sorry that the other guys didn’t help like they thought they did but there’s gotta be another way besides experimenting on yourself! You have to get some help.

They noticed the bag, blinking and looking up at Cass and Honey’s face, her eyes widening, spider sense going off.

I don’t like that look on your face… do I dare ask what you’re looking at?

He flipped through several pages, their smile growing wider.

I have notes from one of those spider guys. Everything he learned about my father, the performance enhancers, all of it, and Otto's corrections and notes. I've been using them for a while, but I hadn't thought... I need to go.

He couldn't help but laugh to themself.

Wh- You’re going to leave? Now!?

Esters mind was pounding at her skull. They knew whatever was going to happen was bad. She tried to stop them, convince them, now she had to pray that she wouldn’t have to do anything.

Well, of course I—

He frowned, noticing Ester's panic. When the light caught their eyes, they almost looked green rather than brown.

You really don't want me to follow through with this, do you? It's completely controlled.

I just want you to be safe, Cass… you’re my best friend.

If I get my father to approve the tests, will you quit worrying?

[...]

He grabbed his wrist tightly.

… It will help, yes.

Their eyes darted to his wrists, looking back up with worry and comfort in her eyes.

I'll talk to him and Otto... soon. Alright? Everything will be fine.

He opened his arms for a hug.

Thank you.

She leaned in, squeezing them and resting their head on his shoulder.

I love you a lot, dude. I don’t want you hurting yourself…

I love you, too, Est. I won't hurt myself.

He tried again to pull his sleeve down over his wrist and grumbled when it didn't stay.

Dang it, this fit me fine last week...

Ester nuzzled her nose into the crook of their neck. Their eyes noticed Cass messing with his sleeve.

Are you growing out of your clothes?

It would seem I am.

He shook his head in mild disappointment and began to rub Ester's back gently, trying to distract them from everything that just happened.

It's not unheard of to have a growth spurt at my age.

You’re going to be too tall for me to tease.

Ester laughed quietly, their fingers curling around the fabric of Cass’ shirt, completely melting into her friend.

I'm sure you'll find a way.

He leaned back, blinking slowly. He felt like he should be at home, but he wanted to be there for Ester after what he did.

You always find a way to tease.

Good… promise me we will stay like this forever.

She looked towards Cass.

Close friends like this…

Ester notices his sluggishness.

…You don’t have to stay.

... forever is a really long time, Est.

He yawned, moving their head back where it was.

I'm just a bit out of it. I'm alright.

If you feel like you need to rest you can sleep over. My aunts don’t mind.

Nah, I don't need my dad freaking out. But thank you for the offer, and thank you for understanding.

He gave her a very tight squeeze of a hug

Besides, I have to be in the lab early tomorrow.

Alright…. Does that mean you have to go soon?

Ester continued to curl up in the embrace, feeling safe and comforted in his arms, offering as much support she could as well.

He sighed, carefully fishing his phone out of his pocket without really letting go of Ester.

I guess I could let my dad know where I am. He'll probably want proof, but if I give it to him, I'm sure he'll be fine.

Good. Because I don’t want this moment to end.

They bury herself against Cass more and more, basically becoming a weighted blanket for him.

He called Norman and waited for him to answer, wrapping his arm around their shoulders.

Hey, da- yes, I'm okay.

[...]

Yes, I'm somewhere safe. Dad, I'm with Ester. You... yes, dad. Okay, let me— dad, calm down. I'm not lying. I... fine.

He pulled the phone away from himself

He wants to talk to you, if that's alright.

Of course.

Ester takes the phone, sitting up and putting the phone to her ear.

Hey Norman!

They say in a friendly tone.

Ester! I'm so sorry to bother you. Otto and I were worried when Cass didn't come home, and with how he's been behaving recently, we needed to be sure he wasn't lying to us. He hasn't hurt you, has he?

Hurting me? No of course not. We’ve just been talking all night. He’s been fine.

They debated on telling Norman and Otto about the throwing up blood; green blood. Best not, just in case. Esters mind flashes to the green goblin and shutters. She wonders how far the experiments Cass and Honey have been doing were working out.

How has he been acting at home, exactly?

Cass narrowed his eyes but stopped himself from grabbing the phone.

Well, he's hardly been home, but when he has been, he's been withdrawn, unfocused, erratic—

Secretive. Irritable. Like the average teenager.

Not like Cass, Otto. Not like Cass.

…. Do you want me to talk about it with him?

She covers her mouth and whispers into the phone.

No, it isn't your job to fix my poor parent—

We appreciate the offer, Ester. You're very kind. Thank you for being such a good friend to Cass. If you would like to talk with him, you are welcome to. Norman and I will speak with him when he gets home either way.

Alright I'm here anytime. Ready to help whatever way I can. Cass is awesome so I’m sure everything is going to be alright…

They reached over and hung up the phone, taking it out of Ester's hand.

I think I should go.

Cass? Is everything okay? I’m sorry I didn’t mean to overstep anything.

I won't let them make you a tool they use to try and fix us. Now, I should go. I need to have a discussion with my father.

You don’t need fixed! I’m not gonna be manipulated by them! Look whatever they said doesn’t matter. Please, don’t get hurt.

He stood up, not really caring if he knocked Ester off of them, and walked to the window.

This is a risk I have to take. I'm sorry you don't seem to understand that.

I… fine. Call me if it gets messy. And tell me when you get home! I don’t want you to get hurt. Or worse.

I'm not going home yet. I'll see you later.

Wha- where are you going?! Cass- Hon- whoever it is you have to talk to me! Where are you going?!

Oscorp.

They felt around in their pocket for his badge.

Even if you don't see why, I have to do this.

Why?! Your experiments can wait, can’t they?! Why are you in such a rush with this?!

It doesn't matter!

He stepped forward, lifting a hand up for emphasis. His sleeve moved again, revealing dark veins in his wrists that likely went up his arm. He didn't seem to notice.

Her mind lead them to stare at his wrist. She covered her mouth, audibly gasping, on the verge of tears. It was so much worse than they thought.

What are you...

Shit. It's not what it looks like. It's just a minor side effect. It'll be fine.

He reached out to touch their shoulder but paused, thinking better of it.

But what if you’re not fine?! What if then?!

Ester choked.

Hey, no, don't think like that, Est.

He wrapped his arms around her, trying to be reassuring.

Everything will be fine. I have it under control. It isn't as bad as it looks.

Ester sobbed, squeezing him closer and closer.

You better be in as much control as you say you are…

He cupped the back of Ester's head, hiding his face in their hair.

I'm as in control as I can be.

Don’t die on me.

She exhaled a breath of air. She laid her head on his chest, softly weeping.

...

I'm right here. I'm not going anywhere.

Good…

Ester’s sniffles soon calmed

You’re too important.

He rolled his eyes.

Please. Me? Important? Ha! You'd be fine without me if you really tried. You don't need me.

[...]

Sorry. That was probably the wrong thing to say. But it's true. You'd be completely fine without me.

Cass I swear…

She huffed.

Don’t do this to me.

Est, we're both changing. I can't go back to how I was before. I'm not dying, but I am changing. You realize that, right?

Yes, I do. I understand change is important, it’s a part of growing up. But I don’t think self experimentation is usually part of the process.

I'd argue that self experimentation is almost a requirement in the teen years.

He smiled, trying to lighten the mood just a bit.

Oh come on.. You know what I mean.

She couldn’t help but quietly chuckle.

Seriously though, I need to finish what I've started.

… Fine. But if you start hurting and not telling somebody about it, I will slap you.

I'll be fine.

He quickly grabbed the cloth again and turned away to cough violently into it.

Are ya sure about that?

He sighed.

Do you want complete honesty? The truth isn't pretty.

… Yeah.

He stepped back and took a deep breath in before slipping his shirt over his head. His torso was covered in patches of yellowish-green skin and red, irritated marks. His veins were more pronounced, and there were bruises covering his arms.

I told you it wasn't pretty.

Cass…

Ester covered her mouth, eventually reading out and tracing her hands over his shoulder.

God damn it…. Why?

He flinched at the touch.

I had to know, Ester. Now it's too late to turn back.

… Tell your dad and Otto about it. Please.

She said with watery eyes.

I can't, Ester! Dad's in bad enough shape as is! This would crush him!

But you’re in pain! It’s bad. Really bad! You have to talk to one of them! Otto, since you refuse to talk to your father.

I'll talk to them later. It's really not as bad as it looks, though.

Caaasss!

Ester stared at his torso, occasionally glancing back up at his face.

Please, when you leave, go home. Show them- this! This needs to be watched and taken care of.

I'm watching it. I'm taking care of it.

He went to scratch at an irritated spot on his neck but stopped.

Are you sure? It looks bad. Real bad.

It only hurts sometimes. It'll get better.

I swear if you’re lying to me, Cass…

Could you actually help us cover it up? You're good at makeup, right?

Only if you tell someone about this later.

She opened a drawer in their desk.

I promise I will tell someone. Maybe Peter.

He blushed.

Thanks.

Ooo, Peter, huh?

She teased, putting the foundation on a sponge brush, lightly tapping it onto Cass’ abdomen.

Of course.

Yeah, yeah. Tease all you want.

He bit his hand to stop himself from making any pained sounds.

I want to hear more about how much your obsessed with him. Ester worked on covering Cass’ skin, trying to find a specific shade from her palettes that would work for him.

Boy you are as pale as a ghost.

I'm not obsessed! I just... think he's cute. And sweet. And funny...

He frowned.

Sorry. I've been cooped up in the lab for the better part of three months.

You can do better than him. But it sounds like you’re hooked on him.

Ester lightly brushed the spot she was working on.

I know, I’m not judging. though this makeup makes you look a bit more orange for some reason. Am I really that tanned?

Wait, I have... uh...

He dug through his bag before pulling out a very pale foundation and some concealer.

I had no idea what I was getting.

Oh perfect. Look at you go, buying makeup. Never thought I’d see the day.

She takes the makeup from him and starts wiping off the layers of powder and liquid she has been trying to work with before dabbing it onto his skin.

Is it a better match? I really had no clue what I was doing.

He dug his nails into his palms to ignore the pain he felt from his skin being touched.

So much better. You did great.

Ester looks down at his hands, their fingers dancing across Cass’ knuckle.

Am I hurting you?

No, you're helping me cover this up.

He forced himself to smile.

I really appreciate you doing this for me.

Of course.

They could still sense his pain, trying to be as gentle as possible.

Do you want to talk with me to try and distract yourself? Or I can talk. Whatever helps.

I... ow, okay, maybe we should just cover the places that my shirt won't cover entirely. Sorry. We can talk if you—

He grabbed his side, just below his ribcage and winced.

If you want.

I’m just trying to distract you. Talking always distracts me from pain or stress.

Ester sat the brushes down and handed Cass’ shirt to him.

Thanks.

He tugged it on and kept his eyes closed. It shouldn't hurt this bad. He knows it shouldn't hurt this bad. But he can't admit that.

I think it's mostly my neck and arms that are visible.

Alright. Where shall I start first?

She spoke while in the middle of cleaning her makeup brushes.

I think the arms will hurt less.

He mentally smacked himself for admitting it hurt.

That’s what I thought.

Ester huffed again. They began to lightly apply makeup from the wrists up, pausing, the nearest to the shoulder and down, then meeting in the middle.

How’s it look?

There was a knock on Ester's window. Cass was outside. Their hair was shorter than the last time they spoke to Ester, their chest flatter, their eyes red with dark circles around them, but they were smiling. They looked so much more like Norman than they used to.

@first-born-osborn

Hm? Cass! How are you? You haven’t text me in like a million years.

They opened the window wider, now getting a better look at her dear friend.

You look… different. I like it!

They practically fell into their room. There was a green liquid smudged on their lips. Their voice was deeper when they spoke, just enough to be immediately noticeable.

Hey... sorry to show up unannounced.

You’re fine! You know this place is always a safe place for y-…What is on your lips? Did you drink something?

Oh lord above please don’t be what I think it is.

Uh—

They touched their fingers to their lips and looked at them, licking the rest off their lips without much more than a panicked thought.

Just some tests. No big deal.

Cass what the hell?! What have you been doing?!

They sit close to their friend, panic setting in. Please don’t tell me that they were doing something stupid.

I... uh... you know about the whole Goblin thing and Honey and all that, right? Well... I'm continuing those tests.

Wh- Cass are you kidding me? Do you know how dangerous it is? You’ve seen what it does to your dad. I don’t want anything bad to happen to you!

Ester grabbed a towel and helped wipe the green liquid away. She sighed, thinking to themself.

…Why are you doing this?

I need answers, Est! I need to know what it will do if I don't quit like my father did.

They took the towel from Ester to get it themself and tugged their sleeve down to their palm

Your father became a madman, Cass. It’s dangerous! Look at you!

They stood up, throwing their arms in the air.

My father is not mad! This is controlled, Ester.

[...]

What do you mean, "Look at me?"

You’re right, you’re right, I’m sorry…. But I doubt it’s controlled, considering you’re coughing up mysterious green liquids.

They tilted her head.

What’s Honey saying this time?

The tests are perfectly safe! It's not some mysterious green liquid. I believe it is blood. And it doesn't matter what Honey said.

Bl- Cass! Your blood isn’t supposed to be green. This is definitely not as safe as you think they are!

They took a deep breath.

I’m sorry, I’m just… nervous for you…

...

Hey, if it goes green, and not in the good way, I'll tell my dad, alright? I just... this could be massive if it works. Think about it, Est. Imagine the possibilities.

I’d like to, Cass. But the sound of it just… I don’t like the sound of all this. Do you understand my concern?

If I'm honest, no. It hasn't hurt me yet, has it? None of my experiments have gone terribly wrong. And anyway, risks are part of laboratory science.

Ester huffed, reaching a hand out to be held, begging to be comforted.

I’ll believe you for now.

He took their hand and sat back down, frowning.

I'm completely fine, Est. I'll be fine. I haven't gone on a murderous, vengeful rampage, have I?

Yet.

Eater tried to laugh. They leaned on Cass’ shoulder.

…You better talk to your dad about this. And keep me updated.

Are you kidding?

He huffed, leaning back on his free hand.

He can't know. He'll shut it down out of paranoia to "protect me from myself."

Well duh, what you’re doing is dangerous!

They kept her head on his shoulder, squeezing their hand.

Maybe you should listen… even if it’s in the name of science… just saying.

It's too late for me to turn back, Ester.

They fiddled with his headphones.

[...]

He furrowed his brow.

I know… I just care about you a lot.

She sighs, looking up.

What’s wrong? Did I say something?

Mm. Not you. Honey. He's just telling me I should try again.

I don’t know how to think about that, Cass. I guess I’d prefer you’d do this under supervision… but Honey?

You got a problem with Honey?

No! Of course not…. I’m just, I dunno, a bit paranoid? You know how I am.

You always turn to that, hmm. Paranoia. It's getting harder and harder to believe you're not afraid of me.

… Heyyy Honey…

Ester moved up from lying on his shoulder.

I’m not scared at all! Obviously. I’m just skittish around people in general. Cass has seen me, I’m sure you have to.

I'm sure.

He quietly hummed the tune of The Itsy Bitsy Spider.

…What brings you out to visit me? Was it mentioning you or is there something else?

They tried to ignore the song. It was the nursery rhyme, maybe it was a different song with the same tune, like twinkle twinkle little star and the ABCS.

Oh, you know... when I heard you trying to convince Cassius to stop the tests, I had to do something.

The tests are dangerous, Honey. It’s hurting him and also your body. I can just.. tell.

We're just fine. True, there are some... side effects, but it's nothing we can't handle.

…I’m going to trust you both on this. But I swear if anything bad happens beyond this I will be extremely upset… I don’t want to see Cass getting hurt. You too, I guess.

How nice it is to know you care about me.

He coughed, quickly grabbing a cloth from his pocket and lifting it to his mouth, staining it green.

C- Honey! You seriously think coughing up green is okay?! Is it getting worse?

They looked down at the cloth.

I'll admit, that isn't ideal. But it's just one little side effect. It doesn't matter that there's more than last time.

Honey, Hon, I can call you Hon, right? You can be serious. Clearly this is effecting your health!

I'm completely serious. I'll talk to Norman if I must, but... I...

For the first time since they arrived, they looked nervous.

I really would rather not.

Why don’t either of you want to talk to Norman? Because he’ll talk you out of continuing his work? Talk you two out of doing something that will end up killing you or worse?

Deep breaths.

Sorry…

Because that "cure" those weird spider guys from another universe gave him didn't do the job, alright?! I don't want to put him under any more stress than he's already under with Oscorp and Gobby. Otto can only help so much. And before you ask, no, he doesn't know about this either...

However...

He felt his shoulder, finding a backpack strap and smiling. He pulled his bag into his lap and opened it, looking for a moment before producing a green-stained notebook. Honey and Cass' ability to work together seemed to have improved.

His research could prove to be useful...

You have to tell someone! I’m sorry that the other guys didn’t help like they thought they did but there’s gotta be another way besides experimenting on yourself! You have to get some help.

They noticed the bag, blinking and looking up at Cass and Honey’s face, her eyes widening, spider sense going off.

I don’t like that look on your face… do I dare ask what you’re looking at?

He flipped through several pages, their smile growing wider.

I have notes from one of those spider guys. Everything he learned about my father, the performance enhancers, all of it, and Otto's corrections and notes. I've been using them for a while, but I hadn't thought... I need to go.

He couldn't help but laugh to themself.

Wh- You’re going to leave? Now!?

Esters mind was pounding at her skull. They knew whatever was going to happen was bad. She tried to stop them, convince them, now she had to pray that she wouldn’t have to do anything.

Well, of course I—

He frowned, noticing Ester's panic. When the light caught their eyes, they almost looked green rather than brown.

You really don't want me to follow through with this, do you? It's completely controlled.

I just want you to be safe, Cass… you’re my best friend.

If I get my father to approve the tests, will you quit worrying?

[...]

He grabbed his wrist tightly.

… It will help, yes.

Their eyes darted to his wrists, looking back up with worry and comfort in her eyes.

I'll talk to him and Otto... soon. Alright? Everything will be fine.

He opened his arms for a hug.

Thank you.

She leaned in, squeezing them and resting their head on his shoulder.

I love you a lot, dude. I don’t want you hurting yourself…

I love you, too, Est. I won't hurt myself.

He tried again to pull his sleeve down over his wrist and grumbled when it didn't stay.

Dang it, this fit me fine last week...

Ester nuzzled her nose into the crook of their neck. Their eyes noticed Cass messing with his sleeve.

Are you growing out of your clothes?

It would seem I am.

He shook his head in mild disappointment and began to rub Ester's back gently, trying to distract them from everything that just happened.

It's not unheard of to have a growth spurt at my age.

You’re going to be too tall for me to tease.

Ester laughed quietly, their fingers curling around the fabric of Cass’ shirt, completely melting into her friend.

I'm sure you'll find a way.

He leaned back, blinking slowly. He felt like he should be at home, but he wanted to be there for Ester after what he did.

You always find a way to tease.

Good… promise me we will stay like this forever.

She looked towards Cass.

Close friends like this…

Ester notices his sluggishness.

…You don’t have to stay.

... forever is a really long time, Est.

He yawned, moving their head back where it was.

I'm just a bit out of it. I'm alright.

If you feel like you need to rest you can sleep over. My aunts don’t mind.

Nah, I don't need my dad freaking out. But thank you for the offer, and thank you for understanding.

He gave her a very tight squeeze of a hug

Besides, I have to be in the lab early tomorrow.

Alright…. Does that mean you have to go soon?

Ester continued to curl up in the embrace, feeling safe and comforted in his arms, offering as much support she could as well.

He sighed, carefully fishing his phone out of his pocket without really letting go of Ester.

I guess I could let my dad know where I am. He'll probably want proof, but if I give it to him, I'm sure he'll be fine.

Good. Because I don’t want this moment to end.

They bury herself against Cass more and more, basically becoming a weighted blanket for him.

He called Norman and waited for him to answer, wrapping his arm around their shoulders.

Hey, da- yes, I'm okay.

[...]

Yes, I'm somewhere safe. Dad, I'm with Ester. You... yes, dad. Okay, let me— dad, calm down. I'm not lying. I... fine.

He pulled the phone away from himself

He wants to talk to you, if that's alright.

Of course.

Ester takes the phone, sitting up and putting the phone to her ear.

Hey Norman!

They say in a friendly tone.

Ester! I'm so sorry to bother you. Otto and I were worried when Cass didn't come home, and with how he's been behaving recently, we needed to be sure he wasn't lying to us. He hasn't hurt you, has he?

Hurting me? No of course not. We’ve just been talking all night. He’s been fine.

They debated on telling Norman and Otto about the throwing up blood; green blood. Best not, just in case. Esters mind flashes to the green goblin and shutters. She wonders how far the experiments Cass and Honey have been doing were working out.

How has he been acting at home, exactly?

Cass narrowed his eyes but stopped himself from grabbing the phone.

Well, he's hardly been home, but when he has been, he's been withdrawn, unfocused, erratic—

Secretive. Irritable. Like the average teenager.

Not like Cass, Otto. Not like Cass.

…. Do you want me to talk about it with him?

She covers her mouth and whispers into the phone.

No, it isn't your job to fix my poor parent—

We appreciate the offer, Ester. You're very kind. Thank you for being such a good friend to Cass. If you would like to talk with him, you are welcome to. Norman and I will speak with him when he gets home either way.

Alright I'm here anytime. Ready to help whatever way I can. Cass is awesome so I’m sure everything is going to be alright…

They reached over and hung up the phone, taking it out of Ester's hand.

I think I should go.

Cass? Is everything okay? I’m sorry I didn’t mean to overstep anything.

I won't let them make you a tool they use to try and fix us. Now, I should go. I need to have a discussion with my father.

You don’t need fixed! I’m not gonna be manipulated by them! Look whatever they said doesn’t matter. Please, don’t get hurt.

He stood up, not really caring if he knocked Ester off of them, and walked to the window.

This is a risk I have to take. I'm sorry you don't seem to understand that.

I… fine. Call me if it gets messy. And tell me when you get home! I don’t want you to get hurt. Or worse.

I'm not going home yet. I'll see you later.

Wha- where are you going?! Cass- Hon- whoever it is you have to talk to me! Where are you going?!

Oscorp.

They felt around in their pocket for his badge.

Even if you don't see why, I have to do this.

Why?! Your experiments can wait, can’t they?! Why are you in such a rush with this?!

It doesn't matter!

He stepped forward, lifting a hand up for emphasis. His sleeve moved again, revealing dark veins in his wrists that likely went up his arm. He didn't seem to notice.

Her mind lead them to stare at his wrist. She covered her mouth, audibly gasping, on the verge of tears. It was so much worse than they thought.

What are you...

Shit. It's not what it looks like. It's just a minor side effect. It'll be fine.

He reached out to touch their shoulder but paused, thinking better of it.

But what if you’re not fine?! What if then?!

Ester choked.

Hey, no, don't think like that, Est.

He wrapped his arms around her, trying to be reassuring.

Everything will be fine. I have it under control. It isn't as bad as it looks.

Ester sobbed, squeezing him closer and closer.

You better be in as much control as you say you are…

He cupped the back of Ester's head, hiding his face in their hair.

I'm as in control as I can be.

Don’t die on me.

She exhaled a breath of air. She laid her head on his chest, softly weeping.

...

I'm right here. I'm not going anywhere.

Good…

Ester’s sniffles soon calmed

You’re too important.

He rolled his eyes.

Please. Me? Important? Ha! You'd be fine without me if you really tried. You don't need me.

[...]

Sorry. That was probably the wrong thing to say. But it's true. You'd be completely fine without me.

Cass I swear…

She huffed.

Don’t do this to me.

Est, we're both changing. I can't go back to how I was before. I'm not dying, but I am changing. You realize that, right?

Yes, I do. I understand change is important, it’s a part of growing up. But I don’t think self experimentation is usually part of the process.

I'd argue that self experimentation is almost a requirement in the teen years.

He smiled, trying to lighten the mood just a bit.

Oh come on.. You know what I mean.

She couldn’t help but quietly chuckle.

Seriously though, I need to finish what I've started.

… Fine. But if you start hurting and not telling somebody about it, I will slap you.

I'll be fine.

He quickly grabbed the cloth again and turned away to cough violently into it.

Are ya sure about that?

He sighed.

Do you want complete honesty? The truth isn't pretty.

… Yeah.

He stepped back and took a deep breath in before slipping his shirt over his head. His torso was covered in patches of yellowish-green skin and red, irritated marks. His veins were more pronounced, and there were bruises covering his arms.

I told you it wasn't pretty.

Cass…

Ester covered her mouth, eventually reading out and tracing her hands over his shoulder.

God damn it…. Why?

He flinched at the touch.

I had to know, Ester. Now it's too late to turn back.

… Tell your dad and Otto about it. Please.

She said with watery eyes.

I can't, Ester! Dad's in bad enough shape as is! This would crush him!

But you’re in pain! It’s bad. Really bad! You have to talk to one of them! Otto, since you refuse to talk to your father.

I'll talk to them later. It's really not as bad as it looks, though.

Caaasss!

Ester stared at his torso, occasionally glancing back up at his face.

Please, when you leave, go home. Show them- this! This needs to be watched and taken care of.

I'm watching it. I'm taking care of it.

He went to scratch at an irritated spot on his neck but stopped.

Are you sure? It looks bad. Real bad.

It only hurts sometimes. It'll get better.

I swear if you’re lying to me, Cass…

Could you actually help us cover it up? You're good at makeup, right?

Only if you tell someone about this later.

She opened a drawer in their desk.

I promise I will tell someone. Maybe Peter.

He blushed.

Thanks.

Ooo, Peter, huh?

She teased, putting the foundation on a sponge brush, lightly tapping it onto Cass’ abdomen.

Of course.

Yeah, yeah. Tease all you want.

He bit his hand to stop himself from making any pained sounds.

I want to hear more about how much your obsessed with him. Ester worked on covering Cass’ skin, trying to find a specific shade from her palettes that would work for him.

Boy you are as pale as a ghost.

I'm not obsessed! I just... think he's cute. And sweet. And funny...

He frowned.

Sorry. I've been cooped up in the lab for the better part of three months.

You can do better than him. But it sounds like you’re hooked on him.

Ester lightly brushed the spot she was working on.

I know, I’m not judging. though this makeup makes you look a bit more orange for some reason. Am I really that tanned?

Wait, I have... uh...

He dug through his bag before pulling out a very pale foundation and some concealer.

I had no idea what I was getting.

Oh perfect. Look at you go, buying makeup. Never thought I’d see the day.

She takes the makeup from him and starts wiping off the layers of powder and liquid she has been trying to work with before dabbing it onto his skin.

Is it a better match? I really had no clue what I was doing.

He dug his nails into his palms to ignore the pain he felt from his skin being touched.

So much better. You did great.

Ester looks down at his hands, their fingers dancing across Cass’ knuckle.

Am I hurting you?

No, you're helping me cover this up.

He forced himself to smile.

I really appreciate you doing this for me.

Of course.

They could still sense his pain, trying to be as gentle as possible.

Do you want to talk with me to try and distract yourself? Or I can talk. Whatever helps.

I... ow, okay, maybe we should just cover the places that my shirt won't cover entirely. Sorry. We can talk if you—

He grabbed his side, just below his ribcage and winced.

If you want.

I’m just trying to distract you. Talking always distracts me from pain or stress.

Ester sat the brushes down and handed Cass’ shirt to him.

Thanks.

He tugged it on and kept his eyes closed. It shouldn't hurt this bad. He knows it shouldn't hurt this bad. But he can't admit that.

I think it's mostly my neck and arms that are visible.

Alright. Where shall I start first?

She spoke while in the middle of cleaning her makeup brushes.