The Big Man @theblackmasks - Tumblr Blog

“Hm yes? I do look good in a lot…maybe not pink that’s a work in progress.”

@temp-war-profiteer

*That made him giggle a bit.*

"Oh, I'm sure you could rock it. What kind of outfit do you have in mind?"

“Not really it’s just a harsh color to work with.”

"Ah, I see... Maybe I'll have to look if we have anything in the closet. What about... a pink dress shirt and a white suit? Or would that look too golf-y?"

*He kept rolling the water bottle over his shoulder.*

“I don’t think so…hm you know your paler than me I think pink could work for you.”

*He darted his eyes down to himself, as though he forgot what he looked like. He blushed.*

"O-Oh? I... suppose I could try that. I don't think I've ever tried pink. You think it'd make me groovy?"

“Groovy? Maybe. Approachable and warmer definitely. If that’s what you’d want to go for anyway.”

*He giggled again. He liked Roman's voice saying 'groovy.'*

"You're pretty good at this color theory. I should keep that in mind for any public appearances for the company."

“Yeah? Nice you should it’s easy to take people on the eyes and know what can work with them.”

"Mm. I should have known you'd be the best person to ask about faces... Do you... do public appearances often?"

*Now, he wondered how different this Roman was. He knew his hated the Janus company. So, another difference wouldn't be too unexpected.*

“I did! Even with Wayne it was a great appearance! We made him his own colleague odd color choices I’d say with strong golds and one highlighter he made the name be pearl. Maybe for Martha?”

*He blinked.*

"G-Gosh- Really? You... still hate that guy, right? Just was a publicity thing for Janus?"

“It’s a give and take. His an ass most of the time who likes to think he understands me just because I’ve met him at some galas when we were kids…but the papers like him a lot more than a creepy guy in a mask. So.” *He shrugs* “he gives me some good publicity I let him think he actually did something important with me.”

"I-Interesting... S-Sorry, just... my Roman wanted him dead. Couldn't stand him. He uh... reminded him of his parents. With you know... the fake personas."

*He cleared his throat.*

"I'm really glad you get some benefit from him."

“I have my own head to remind me of my parents I try not to push them onto other people too *He smiled* “Yeah.”

*It was a very negative memory, indeed, but Roman seemed so... calm about it.*

"Y-You're very... Well, you're just great, Roman. I'm happy for you."

*His heart rate did increase as he mentioned them he quickly pulled off his clip* “thank you.”

“Hm yes? I do look good in a lot…maybe not pink that’s a work in progress.”

@temp-war-profiteer

*That made him giggle a bit.*

"Oh, I'm sure you could rock it. What kind of outfit do you have in mind?"

“Not really it’s just a harsh color to work with.”

"Ah, I see... Maybe I'll have to look if we have anything in the closet. What about... a pink dress shirt and a white suit? Or would that look too golf-y?"

*He kept rolling the water bottle over his shoulder.*

“I don’t think so…hm you know your paler than me I think pink could work for you.”

*He darted his eyes down to himself, as though he forgot what he looked like. He blushed.*

"O-Oh? I... suppose I could try that. I don't think I've ever tried pink. You think it'd make me groovy?"

“Groovy? Maybe. Approachable and warmer definitely. If that’s what you’d want to go for anyway.”

*He giggled again. He liked Roman's voice saying 'groovy.'*

"You're pretty good at this color theory. I should keep that in mind for any public appearances for the company."

“Yeah? Nice you should it’s easy to take people on the eyes and know what can work with them.”

"Mm. I should have known you'd be the best person to ask about faces... Do you... do public appearances often?"

*Now, he wondered how different this Roman was. He knew his hated the Janus company. So, another difference wouldn't be too unexpected.*

“I did! Even with Wayne it was a great appearance! We made him his own colleague odd color choices I’d say with strong golds and one highlighter he made the name be pearl. Maybe for Martha?”

*He blinked.*

"G-Gosh- Really? You... still hate that guy, right? Just was a publicity thing for Janus?"

"I-Interesting... S-Sorry, just... my Roman wanted him dead. Couldn't stand him. He uh... reminded him of his parents. With you know... the fake personas."

*He cleared his throat.*

"I'm really glad you get some benefit from him."

“I have my own head to remind me of my parents I try not to push them onto other people too *He smiled* “Yeah.”

“Hm yes? I do look good in a lot…maybe not pink that’s a work in progress.”

@temp-war-profiteer

*That made him giggle a bit.*

"Oh, I'm sure you could rock it. What kind of outfit do you have in mind?"

“Not really it’s just a harsh color to work with.”

"Ah, I see... Maybe I'll have to look if we have anything in the closet. What about... a pink dress shirt and a white suit? Or would that look too golf-y?"

*He kept rolling the water bottle over his shoulder.*

“I don’t think so…hm you know your paler than me I think pink could work for you.”

*He darted his eyes down to himself, as though he forgot what he looked like. He blushed.*

"O-Oh? I... suppose I could try that. I don't think I've ever tried pink. You think it'd make me groovy?"

“Groovy? Maybe. Approachable and warmer definitely. If that’s what you’d want to go for anyway.”

*He giggled again. He liked Roman's voice saying 'groovy.'*

"You're pretty good at this color theory. I should keep that in mind for any public appearances for the company."

“Yeah? Nice you should it’s easy to take people on the eyes and know what can work with them.”

"Mm. I should have known you'd be the best person to ask about faces... Do you... do public appearances often?"

*Now, he wondered how different this Roman was. He knew his hated the Janus company. So, another difference wouldn't be too unexpected.*

“I did! Even with Wayne it was a great appearance! We made him his own colleague odd color choices I’d say with strong golds and one highlighter he made the name be pearl. Maybe for Martha?”

*He blinked.*

"G-Gosh- Really? You... still hate that guy, right? Just was a publicity thing for Janus?"

“Hm yes? I do look good in a lot…maybe not pink that’s a work in progress.”

@temp-war-profiteer

*That made him giggle a bit.*

"Oh, I'm sure you could rock it. What kind of outfit do you have in mind?"

“Not really it’s just a harsh color to work with.”

"Ah, I see... Maybe I'll have to look if we have anything in the closet. What about... a pink dress shirt and a white suit? Or would that look too golf-y?"

*He kept rolling the water bottle over his shoulder.*

“I don’t think so…hm you know your paler than me I think pink could work for you.”

*He darted his eyes down to himself, as though he forgot what he looked like. He blushed.*

"O-Oh? I... suppose I could try that. I don't think I've ever tried pink. You think it'd make me groovy?"

“Groovy? Maybe. Approachable and warmer definitely. If that’s what you’d want to go for anyway.”

*He giggled again. He liked Roman's voice saying 'groovy.'*

"You're pretty good at this color theory. I should keep that in mind for any public appearances for the company."

“Yeah? Nice you should it’s easy to take people on the eyes and know what can work with them.”

"Mm. I should have known you'd be the best person to ask about faces... Do you... do public appearances often?"

*Now, he wondered how different this Roman was. He knew his hated the Janus company. So, another difference wouldn't be too unexpected.*

“I did! Even with Wayne it was a great appearance! We made him his own colleague odd color choices I’d say with strong golds and one highlighter he made the name be pearl. Maybe for Martha?”

“Hm yes? I do look good in a lot…maybe not pink that’s a work in progress.”

@temp-war-profiteer

*That made him giggle a bit.*

"Oh, I'm sure you could rock it. What kind of outfit do you have in mind?"

“Not really it’s just a harsh color to work with.”

"Ah, I see... Maybe I'll have to look if we have anything in the closet. What about... a pink dress shirt and a white suit? Or would that look too golf-y?"

*He kept rolling the water bottle over his shoulder.*

“I don’t think so…hm you know your paler than me I think pink could work for you.”

*He darted his eyes down to himself, as though he forgot what he looked like. He blushed.*

"O-Oh? I... suppose I could try that. I don't think I've ever tried pink. You think it'd make me groovy?"

“Groovy? Maybe. Approachable and warmer definitely. If that’s what you’d want to go for anyway.”

*He giggled again. He liked Roman's voice saying 'groovy.'*

"You're pretty good at this color theory. I should keep that in mind for any public appearances for the company."

“Yeah? Nice you should it’s easy to take people on the eyes and know what can work with them.”

“Hm yes? I do look good in a lot…maybe not pink that’s a work in progress.”

@temp-war-profiteer

*That made him giggle a bit.*

"Oh, I'm sure you could rock it. What kind of outfit do you have in mind?"

“Not really it’s just a harsh color to work with.”

"Ah, I see... Maybe I'll have to look if we have anything in the closet. What about... a pink dress shirt and a white suit? Or would that look too golf-y?"

*He kept rolling the water bottle over his shoulder.*

“I don’t think so…hm you know your paler than me I think pink could work for you.”

*He darted his eyes down to himself, as though he forgot what he looked like. He blushed.*

"O-Oh? I... suppose I could try that. I don't think I've ever tried pink. You think it'd make me groovy?"

“Groovy? Maybe. Approachable and warmer definitely. If that’s what you’d want to go for anyway.”

“Hm yes? I do look good in a lot…maybe not pink that’s a work in progress.”

@temp-war-profiteer

*That made him giggle a bit.*

"Oh, I'm sure you could rock it. What kind of outfit do you have in mind?"

“Not really it’s just a harsh color to work with.”

"Ah, I see... Maybe I'll have to look if we have anything in the closet. What about... a pink dress shirt and a white suit? Or would that look too golf-y?"

*He kept rolling the water bottle over his shoulder.*

“I don’t think so…hm you know your paler than me I think pink could work for you.”

“Hm yes? I do look good in a lot…maybe not pink that’s a work in progress.”

@temp-war-profiteer

*That made him giggle a bit.*

"Oh, I'm sure you could rock it. What kind of outfit do you have in mind?"

“Not really it’s just a harsh color to work with.”

“Hm yes? I do look good in a lot…maybe not pink that’s a work in progress.”

@temp-war-profiteer

#black mask

“Mask!” *his eyes squeezed closed and he put a hand over his mouth trying to calm himself down*

@mr-david-li

You’re doing great, sir. V-Very good. Just hang on, Roman.

He pressed the button for the penthouse floor. He could tell this ticking time bomb was nearing the end of its clock, and the penthouse had things to break, not the elevator… Not any extraneous things.

*He felt dizzy with anger and fear or what? Not getting his mask fixed? Probably Jesus these masks were his babies how could he have been so stupid?! He waned to ouch in the elevator but beheld himself back shaking a bit*

It felt agonizingly long, but eventually, the elevator dinged, and the doors opened.

Li ran ahead to open the double doors for the man.

We’re here. Let’s go. Let it out in here.

*He first with shaking hand passed his remains of his mask to Li the yelled and kicked the desk it slammed down onto the floor* “Fuck! God fucking damnit all!” *He kicked in the table with ease* “One thing! One thing I have and they break! I cat have one thing.” *He jumps on the table it spilts up more and more*

Li focused his attention on the mask, examining the fracture in it and how it could be repaired. He knew regardless it would never be the same level of antiquity.

He looked up. Kilroy would be very sad about his desk. That thing meant so much to him. Where was Kilroy? Gosh, they left him behind, didn’t they?

He approached the scene, keeping a wide distance from Roman, until he was in his line of sight.

Be careful of the splinters, sir.

“Splinters fucking splinters! Who the hell cares! God! Stupid!” *He tried to raise his hands not to hit Li of course he was about the only person he wouldn’t hit without a good reason even in this moment but his bony ever failing him threw them to one side and he yelled more before he started to pull on his hair. He blamed himself fully for his mask but that did not help with the anger it was always presents a ever boiling thing*

Li didn’t fear being hit, and didn’t recoil at the sight of his raised fists, even if he should have.

I know this is very hard for you, sir. None of us wanted this, or could have predicted it.

…Do you need something else to break?

“…maybe.” *He took big huffing breaths he frowned as he saw the desk. He moved back over towards it picking it back up at least before he moved away. His brain was forcing him to calm down it took a lot out of him to be angry it hurt as his bony twitched and jumped more*

I’ll find a replacement for the desk…

Why don’t you take a seat on the couch?

Is there anything besides something else to break that I can get you? Any pain anywhere? I can get a drink or an ice pack.

He walked past him to the lounging area, knowing that he could be hit if he came closer.

*He sighed softly he blinked slowly and moved to the couch* “a…a pain med and some coffee.” *He rubbed his temple. Why did he do that? Breaking everything like a wild thing* “someone should check on Kilroy.”

Thank you.

He acknowledged as he sat down. He sighed and walked towards the door to get what he asked for, when he paused.

You think so?

He obviously agreed, but he didn’t expect Roman to think of it so soon. He took off his glasses to rub his eyes. He couldn’t be in two places at once.

I can page him to see if he’ll come back upstairs… If he doesn’t… Well, that’s not something you should worry about, sir. I will handle it.

He said, very unconvincingly.

*He closed his eyes it felt like his heart was slowing down* “yes. I-I’m sorry just stupid I didn’t mean to get so upset.” *Ig just bubbles over* “hm.”

I understand, sir. It’s not your fault at all. You had every reason to be upset.

You stay there. I’ll get your coffee… a-and put this down.

He lifted the mask to emphasis it.

“Yes. Okay thank you li.” *He didn’t look up from rubbing his head. He was a business man why in the world did he let one mask blow him over god and Kilroy probably thought it was his fault no doubt.* “uh.” *his head started to throb*

Of course, sir. It is my honor.

He stepped outside, and the sound of his dress shoes echoed down the hall.

…Still down in the warehouse, Kilroy’s pager buzzed, but he stayed tucked in a fetal position, under a table in the shooting range. It was all his fault. He killed his Roman, and now he ruined this Roman’s mask. He was awful. He felt like dying.

Li sighed.

He’s not answering…

He mumbled to himself.

*Roman lied down his head jerked to one side and he groaned. Getting angry was never a good idea at least not to the extent he had just gone too he’d be dealing with this until he got his sleeping meds* “useless…body..” *He covered his face with his hands*

Li put his pager away, seeing that it was not working to get Kilroy back. He decided to focus on the coffee. He went to the machine in his office and started dispensing the coffee into a mug.

He looked at the mask, setting the two halves on his desk. In all these years, Roman never had broken a mask.

…Roman’s phone buzzed with a call.

*He sighed but growled and picked up the phone from his pocket* “Roman speaking. What ya want?”

"R-Roman?"

*Kilroy sniffled from the other end.*

"I-I'm s-so sorry. I d-didn't know it would d-do that. I w-would n-never want to b-break your m-mask. I-I'm so sorry. Y-You must f-feel awful."

“Kilroy…look it’s fine.” *He groans* “It was not the rarest mask I…I am upset to have it broken but I don’t blame you.” *He rubbed his head and closed his eyes*

"I-I know h-how m-much it m-means t-to you. C-Can I find you a n-new one? Piece it b-back together?"

*He knew he was bothering him. He should have just left the office, maybe go to a bar. That would be escaping responsibility, though.*

“Kilroy no it’s okay. It’s a wood fossil mask they make the them custom I have a guy.” *He gagged a bit his head throbbed to much*

"Y-You have a g-guy- W-What was that? Are you ok? Are you sick? Are you throwing up?!"

*Kilroy seemed to panic at that.*

“My head just hurts…” *He sighed* “I got really angry. My head is throbbing.”

"O-Oh. I s-see."

*His voice was a little louder, suggesting that he got closer to the microphone as he gripped the phone tighter.*

"I t-thought you would be. That's ok. You really should be angry. I'm sorry about your head though. C-Can I help?"

“I would be if I could. You’ll probably be mad at me l slammed your desk and broke the table…”

*He was quiet for a while.*

"...My desk?"

*There were some sounds of fabric rubbing against itself as Kilroy readjusted.*

"W-What... What about all the things inside it?"

“I don’t know.” *He waited for a reaction though he felt like he was going to pass out his leg kicked in the couch and he huffed*

"O-Ok. I'll... I'll c-come up and see."

*He sniffled and wiped his nose. If he was crying, it was silently. How was he going to work now? He supposed on something makeshift, but that desk was an anchor for him. It had seen so much, and been a location for many of his daily routines.*

"I d-don't want Li to talk to me, though."

“Can he at least come in to give me pain pills?” *He mumbled to Kilroy if he wasn’t in so much pain he’d wonder why and maybe defend li talking with him*

"O-Of course... Of course, Roman."

*He was relieved to hear that he would take medicine like that, and not just tough it out. As such, his response was more toned about that, rather than about letting Li in.*

"I... um... I h-hope it helps."

*He nodded not that Kilroy could see it*

"A-Alright, I'll um... get up there. Stay there. A-And I can stay on the p-phone in c-case something happens, if y-you'd like, o-or... or w-whatever you need."

*There were the sounds of him rustling out from under the table. At that time, there was the soft knock of Li back on the double doors, to signal his entrance back with the supplies.*

“Come in if you have pill.” *He groaned this was just about the worst episode he had in a while*

Li stepped in with a tray, which he planned to put on the coffee table, but then realized.

Ah...

He set it on the cushions of another couch and came over to Roman with the pain relievers in one hand and the coffee mug in his other.

Here you are, sir.

*He moved putting the pill in his mouth chewing* “thank you Li and Kilroy doesn’t want to talk to you. I can talk to him if he’s not upset about his desk.” *He slowly sat up and took the mug*

The man paused and furrowed his brow. He didn't realize why Kilroy would seemingly be upset at him.

Oh... Alright.

He shook the confusion off and readjusted his glasses.

Is the coffee to your liking? Would you care for sugar or cream?

“No no I just need something to put my head back on.” *He gulp half the mug then sighed* “great.”

He nodded and gave a small smile to see him taking care of himself, even if in an extreme manner.

You talked to Kilroy then, I realize?

“I mumbled some things to Kilroy. Really I just told him about the desk and listened to him.”

Hm... That's good, of course, since I couldn't go down to see him. I assume he's coming up then?... And he doesn't want me here.

Let me make sure you're all set before I can leave you alone. I don't want you in any sort of danger.

“I’m not in danger what you think he’s going to go off the handle and stab me?” *He thought for a moment* “He may stab me you should have a med kit on hand.”

He's not going to stab you... But, I'll bring a kit in case he hurts himself. I'll be right outside, ok? I... could keep him away, if you'd rather just rest.

“No we can talk or yell? I think things would go smoothly for me that way.” *He fixed his suit* “could you try to fix my mask?” *He stood up and handed him a business card* “if you can’t fix it keep the pieces but call this man see if he has anything worth buying. I trust your judgment.”

He held his hands out, first to make sure Roman wasn't hurt and going to fall over. Perhaps he'd gotten too used to Kilroy's fragility.

He took the card, looking it over, before tucking it in his suit. He nodded.

Will do, sir. I shall see you later then. I'll work on the mask.

He gestured for him to head out the door.

*He nodded and moved to his room to get another mask he couldn’t help noticing how valuable he was without it*

*Li left as Roman went to get ready. It was a while later before the hinges of the double doors creaked again, supposedly as Kilroy was coming in.*

*He was still looking through his chest looking through all of them one of his masks breaking made him very…uncomfortable?*

*Usually, the sounds of Roman shuffling about would make him approach, but as he got to the center of the room and saw his desk, he sat on his knees in front of it to try and go through it for his things, beginning to sniffle again.*

*He looked over them picking a metal mask he had gotten it as a working project to see which metal would be best for his face he clicked it on and stood coming out*

*He would see Kilroy moving aside the shattered splitters of wood to pick out more things, his arms holding assortments of reports to his chest, that he had before so haphazardly filed. He was currently picking out all the letters and lunch notes he and his Jane had written to each other. He softly cried, heartbroken. He didn't seem to notice Roman, or was so fixated by trying to keep his things safe, that he didn't look up.*

“…” *He moved and sat by him* “I’m sorry.” *He huffed* “look I can get you a desk that looks exactly like this one. I shouldn’t have taken my anger out on your things.”

*As he sat by him, Kilroy seemed to calm a little and he turned quickly to cry against Roman's shoulder. It was an ugly sounding cry, making him appear more like a child, helpless and small, than a full man.*

*'I'd like that, please.' A sense of instinct made him transmit that to him, rather than using his words, which were failing him at the moment. He wanted to tell him that it was ok, and that he appreciated the apology, but that didn't quite send.*

*He moved hugging him to the side* “of course. We should get you a safe for all of your…Roman stuff.”

*He shivered at the touch. He felt like Roman actually cared and understood. He didn't tell him to get over it. He sat by him, on his level, and mourned it with him. He quieted a little in the hug, feeling comforted and safer.*

"I-I hadn't thought of that. I want to do that."

*He croaked out, his voice sounding hoarse now. He said it as a statement, but really he was asking the man, like as if he wasn't allowed to have or to want that unless he said so.*

“Really? Yes. We can do that heavy duty stuff…something I can’t break.” *His hand twitched and rubbed Kilroys arm* “I am still so sorry.”

*Kilroy certainly liked the physical affirmation.*

"I know you are. It's n-not your fault. It's mine. With my stupid gun."

*He planned now to scrap it after this. He didn't care if it worked. He wanted it gone. He huffed, exhaling his irrationality.*

"I'm really sorry about your m-mask."

*He reached up with his looser arm in the hug to touch Roman's hand that had twitched.*

“No it’s okay I get to have another one. It was wood basically nothing to go.” *He let him touch not minding much* “the gun was cool.”

"Y-Yeah? I just... I've n-never hurt one of R-Roman's masks b-before. I-It's one of the w-worst things I c-could do. I already l-let h-him d-die on m-me. N-Now this? I s-shouldn't b-be here."

*His voice pitched, and his skin felt hot to himself, getting pink in the heat of the emotion.*

"I'll have it dismantled."

*He treated his machines like dogs. If they bit someone, they got put down.*

*He sighed* “look I can’t put a lot of emotions into things without having a mental break. I love my masks and I love guns but I’m not going g to life a phase of my life in rage because I lost one…mainly because that would…hurt.” *Kill him most likely.* “wha I’m saying is this is a hiccup in your life you still deserve to be here.”

*He listened through what he was saying. Before the clarification, he just felt bad for Roman. That sounded frustrating to live with and avoid. He looked up at him with his wet eyes and quivering lip.*

"T-Thank you, f-for giving me another c-chance. I k-know I k-keep messing up. That's... why I didn't want Li to come in here. He doesn't like when I cry."

*He took a deep breath.*

"I guess I invest my emotions in things t-too much. But, I get very sad, n-not angry."

“Hm I think you can cry at least one of us should get to.” *he gave a small smile* “Yeah maybe that’s for the best. I think a lot about where I’d be if I didn’t have anger washing over me.”

*He gave a chuckle to Roman's suggestion, though it was more bittersweet. He grew more serious about it at the man's hypothetical. He couldn't help but think through all the things in Roman's life that were dictated by his anger. He took a breath.*

"Yeah... But it's... a part of who you are. You can't really control that; nobody can. A lot of pain has come from it, but more so because people didn't treat you right for it... And... I think I probably fell in love with your temper, just a little bit."

*He smiled and nudged him a bit. Of course, he didn't mean the debilitating parts of it. More... his bluntness. His steadfastness in situations. His dry humor.*

“You think so?” *he thought about it and couldn’t see his anger as a positive reaction except maybe when he was hurting people*

*He giggled, making his previous tears glimmer in the light.*

"Oh, yeah! You show people their place. You make... things less scary, by being the strongest thing in the room."

“Ha you think I’m the strongest thing in the room?” *he laughed more at that*

*He felt all coy, giddy by Roman's laugh.*

"I'd bet my life on it."

*He tucked his head into his shoulders more and got a little softer in his voice.*

"I think you're the strongest thing in the world. I d-don't see how anyone could see differently. How do people go on, knowing you're out here, and not love you? Not think you're amazing? That, I'll never get."

*jesus. He blushed a bit lucky for his mask of course he’d never tell he was blushing* “Kilroy please plenty of people don’t love me. It’s apart of how they think and how I act it’s no problem.”

*He tilted his head to him, as though still admiring his strength and charisma while listening to the man deny it.*

“You act perfectly. They must be brain dead o-or severely misguided. You’re the best person on the planet.”

*He slow blinked for only a moment, seemingly taking in how nice that statement felt.*

“Even the people you kill. Their last thought should be, ‘wow.’ That was mine, at least.”

“Wow? Hm mostly I think it’s screaming for mercy or whatever there life was like before.”

*That… did make sense…*

“Well, at least they think of you as godly, having to beg to you. That’s closer to the truth.”

*He shrugged, and leaned closer against him, smelling his cologne and feeling the heat of his body.*

“I’ve never seen someone who hurts like you do.”

“Now that’s a compliment.” *His leg jumped and he sighed* “I’ve never seen someone with ideas like you.”

*That made his breath hitch. He didn’t expect Roman to compliment him for anything.*

“N-No? G-Gosh… uh… T-Thank you, Roman.”

*He compulsively tapped at the man, feeling so happy and honored, that his brain felt the need to count to not lose the feeling.*

“Of course it’s the least I can do for you right now…” *He looked at all the memories that Cain had in his arms. Things he could have destroyed from having that outburst*

*The excitement of their discussion nearly had him forget his distress. He followed his gaze to the items, which he was still holding so tightly. He slouched and let the papers be seen in his lap.*

“You two are very special to me. I-… He made me feel so… just… happy. It gave me a reason to live.”

*He felt a need to - poorly - explain, rather than realize Roman was feeling guilty.*

“I’m glad he did. I just I wasn’t thinking when I came in here slamming things over.”

“Oh…”

*He glanced more at the wood splinters they were sitting around.*

“Right… Well, it is your office too. You had a right to break what you wanted. But I… I understand. Roman? I don’t want you to feel guilty. I know you can’t control this. And… I know that tears you up inside.”

“…you’re in my head huh?” *He asked mainly hoping he wasn’t going as soft as he thought he was when it came to this whole situation*

*His eyes widened a bit.*

“N-No- I m-mean… No… Not really. I can only catches glimpses. Trust me, most of this is just me knowing you.”

*He put his hand on the man’s thigh and smiled.*

*His head jerked to one side* “yeah? Hm I guess you’ve got a head start on that.” *he moved his head back to look at him and realized he’d probably be sketching what he remembered of him tonight before his sleep medication kicked in*

“It’s an unfair advantage, I’m aware. I know I don’t know you, I just… know your memories. And I… I wish I could be there to help you feel better.”

*He looked into his eyes, able to tell he was thinking about something, though he couldn’t tell what.*

“It’s okay. Really I don’t mind all that much.” *He smiled god he’d reader him a new desk and whatever else he’d need to make this right.”

*He sighed.*

“You push through too much. You’re a sweetheart.”

*His smile made him utterly relaxed, disregarding anything and everything of the day.*

“Can I… give you a full hug? T-To move past this whole thing, for both of us.”

“Sure. To move past this.” *He moved and gently hugged him trying his best not to squeeze too hard or twitch and snap something*

“T-Thank you.”

*He eagerly hugged back, wrapping his arms around him, pressing his palms against Roman’s back. He didn’t really want to let go anytime soon. In this moment, everything felt forgiven, like the offense hadn’t even happened. How could he be sad when Roman was in his arms?*

“…What mask is this, now?”

“It’s a aluminum mask model. It can be modified easily and it’s very cheap but I got it to test out the material.”

*That made him perk up. He giggled.*

“Ah, now we match. I like it. It suits you well.”

“You think so? I liked how chill it feels.” *He tapped it a bit* “it’s a good sound too.”

“That it is! You can see why I like mine. I didn’t know you really made your own masks… Well… besides your black one. I’m eager to see what you choose to do with this one. I could… help you design it, if you’d like.”

*He shyly offered. He moved in the hug to catch a glance at Roman’s mask.*

“Maybe. I would like your input I’m sure.” *the mask shined and shifted in the light it was a contrast to his deep dull eyes*

*He gave a big, toothy grin to that.*

"Thank you! I think this could be a fun project- i-if I'm not intruding on your artistic methods, o-of course."

*He darted his eyes around the metal, trying to make guesses to the alloy composition and how it was shaped.*

"It's beautiful..."

“No no you wouldn’t be.” *He nodded jerking his head a bit* “the mask? Yes. Sometimes simple is better.”

"Y-Yes, the mask. Mm, I agree. It leaves a lot more up to interpretation. More room for artistic liberty in the audience... or perhaps your opponent."

*He made note of his jerking, trying to settle himself softer on Roman's body to maybe put him at ease.*

"I'm sorry, am I staring too much?"

“Half my opponent are simple. Nothing to them and no great advantage.” *He shook his head* “no I don’t mind you looking.”

"Hm, fair point. I'd hope it was something more instinctual, but I'm afraid you're right. Most people don't have half a brain to even qualify being scared. Probably why there's so many lackeys for hire."

*He softened his expression to his denial.*

"I'm glad. I just... worried I made you nervous... since you twitched."

“Oh. Sometimes my body just twitch’s it’s no big deal. You don’t have to worry about it.” *Nervous. Please as if he’d ever be nervous…*

"Oh, alright. I just... You were twitching a lot when your mask... broke."

*He hated to bring that up again, but he was quite sure that image of Roman and Li fleeing would forever be burned in his brain. Nervous, himself, at Roman's possible reaction, he hugged him tighter again.*

“Yeah…yeah my brain was trying to shut itself down. Too much anger and well sadness.”

"I see... You know yourself very well."

*Even though his words were very casual, his expression got very disheartened. He didn't mean to give Roman so much discomfort. And this proved to him that he did feel such emotions.*

"I... didn't think anyone in the warehouse saw you, if that makes you feel better."

“I know that doctors are idiots and my parents were worse.” *He glares a bit at memories before he shook his head* “That’s good though.”

*He stiffened at his resentful hiss.*

"Y-Yeah. T-They were... I wish someone could help you, Roman. I don't want you to hurt like this."

*He didn't seem aware of Li's plans to kidnap that doctor for the man.*

“Yes. I don’t…I mean it’s more annoying than anything I told you before you don’t have to care about that.” *His arm jerked up and he moved to hold it down. Li worried he knew but he didn’t talk about even when he shut him down*

*He tried to hug him again, even if he was in danger of getting hit by his twitches.*

"I-I know... But, I do care. U-Unless it makes you feel worse, if I do. I just... It makes me sad. I know it shouldn't, but I just wish I could... hold you like this, and let you relax."

*He wished he could tell himself to stop making a big deal about this. It was making Roman feel worse about it, he was sure.*

*It did help pressure on his muscles it made it easier to relax* “it doesn’t make me feel worse just brings the twitching up. I don’t care about in the same way you don’t care when you breathe it’s build into how you live.”

"Y-Yeah? I-I'm g-glad - very glad - it doesn't m-make it worse."

*He sighed, resting his chin on his shoulder.*

"That's a good way to describe it. But I feel like sometimes it's like asthma for you."

“…hm” *His hands slammed to the floor* “asthma.”

*He grimaced at the velocity of the strike, darting his hand to look his over for redness.*

"Y-Yeah. Asthma. It's livable... but a little different or hard for you."

“That does make sense.” *He fixes his suit*

"Yeah? It does? That's good, I imagine, right? N-Not... that it feels that way. Just that... it's an analogy that fits."

*He watched him fidget, still hanging onto him.*

"Are you thinking about it very hard?"

*He made a guess to what his business partner was fixated on.*

“That and the new lipstick, getting a new mask.” *It was a mixed bag up there but his thoughts did move slow from one topic to another*

"Mm, yeah?"

*He spoke softly to him, letting him ruminate and file through each of the big to-dos. He knew to give the man time. He was witty and quick on his feet, but sometimes, his brain seemed to need a little more time to catch up. At least, that was Kilroy's working theory.*

"Would writing it down help?"

“Yes actually.” *He moved in his suit to get his journal his hand jumped and slipped open to the page of Kilroy a rough sketch some lines are harder than others* “…” *He moved to grab his journal then his leg jumped and he groaned*

*He blinked, confused... surprised... at what he was seeing. He lowered his head with a quiet smile and faint blush and reached for the journal.*

"Let me help you. Where's the next empty page?"

*He of course was positively erupting on the inside, but tried to stay helpful for Roman. His claws still lightly touched the drawing, feeling over its familiarity. He wondered if he looked at this page often, since the journal seemed to crease and open to this one.*

“Yes…uh yes. It should be after five pages.” *He blinked rapidly*

"Wonderful. Thank you."

*His gratitude likely extended subtly to the idea of being sketched, as well. He lightly flipped through the journal for him, landing on the empty page to slide the man's thumb back onto.*

"You have a pen?"

“Yes.” *He moved tapping his suit and gave it to him. It was a nice gel pen*

"Ah, thank you. This is a good pen. I bet it writes smooth... You... want me to write it? Or would you rather do that?"

*He smiled a bit at the fact that he gave it to him, instead of using it.*

“Hm you should write I’m a bit jumpy right now.” *He sighed and moved to sit on his hands a old trick he used we he was little*

“Sure thing, Roman. Take your time.”

*He lifted his knee up to hold the journal to and opened the pen.*

“I’ll tell you what I’m writing, in case you want to add to it… First thing is that we have to get you a new mask, from your seller. At the same time, Li and I will try to fix your old one.”

*He watched him sit on his hands. He knew he was likely shy about the gesture, but he was personally happy that Roman knew something that worked for him, even if it came from a place of desperation.*

“We do yes. I’ve asked Li to look at some for me I trust his decision but my seller can be a pain to negotiate with so that will take some time if there is something of value he has. Fixing the old one is a…deal it’s made from fossilized wood it takes a lot to shape.” *He tried not to dwell on it*

“O-Oh, wow. Fossilized wood…”

*He jotted that note down under the bulleted item of the list. He was happy to see Roman think a little quicker and in depth, when it came to his masks. He was sure that must feel good while his brain seemed to be slowing down at this time of day.*

“I’m sure Li can be a harsh negotiator. We’ll just have to wait and see… What about… a type of natural glue for the mask? Like sap? So, we don’t ruin the material with modern adhesives. I know the value of it will never be the same… but, maybe that would work.”

“…that’s an idea. Write it down.” *He nodded which turned into a jerk* “I’m sure Li could get a mask…I had my old mask seller he knew I was good for his best. I know him for a while.”

“Of course. Wilco.”

*He took the command and scribbled that in the growing notes section. He dotted a period and looked back up at Roman, more sympathetically.*

“Yeah? I’m sorry that you don’t have your seller here. That must be quite frustrating to lose.”

“Oh it is. I have to make a whole new profile with this guy it’s painstakingly hard.”

“Gosh. I’m sorry. I wish there was a way to expedite that for you. I’m sure you’re a good enough client that it should figure out.”

*He patted his shoulder.*

“He should figure it out! God half the time his information is wrong can you believe that?! He’s the only asshole that has good suggestions of masks and art and he’s a dumbass!”

“Oh- Jesus… That is awful.”

*He was glad Roman was letting his frustration out here, instead of letting it build, even if it didn’t take away the situation itself.*

“Maybe that lets you pull the wool over him easier on deals?”

“Hm. I do it doesn’t change his prices.”

“Ah, dang it. I just… don’t want this making your blood pressure go up. It’s not worth it.”

*He softly brushed his claw against Roman’s chest, above his heart.*

“Could he be persuaded through… other means?”

*Kilroy meant to suggest perhaps threatening the man.*

*He smiled then laughed loudly and rapidly* “per-Ha-persuade him?” *He continued to laugh* “look I’m open minded to most things but I don’t think that would work.”

*He leaned back to let the booming sound not hurt his ears. He blinked and darted his eyes around Roman, to figure out how awful his suggestion was.*

“N-No? I suppose if he’s that dense, it probably wouldn’t work anyway.”

*Even if Kilroy had said something so silly, maybe it’d taken Roman’s mind off being frustrated.*

*He continued laughing until it turned quiet.* “no I don’t think it would work.” *He let his face drop and relaxed*

“Glad I gave you a good laugh, at least. So… That’s item one on your list. Should I write down the next one?”

*He patted his shoulder and rubbed his arm.*

*His suit was a high quality feel it was tight and smooth* “I think I’ve got it.” *He moved to get back his journal*

“Ah- I’m glad to hear it.”

*He winked and handed him back the pen and journal. The comforting sensation of his luxury suit would always stay in his mind.*

*He moved to write his writing was a bit more messy and as he wrote his hand jerked and scribbled*

*He smiled the whole way through, hoping that maybe that would help him tremor less.*

“You uh… I liked your drawing, b-by the way.”

*He gave a quick glance to him* “…thank you.” *He cleared his throat* “I was half asleep really.”

"Yeah? Even more impressive then... drawing when you're tired."

*Internally, that made him even more giddy to think that Roman thought about him in those quiet moments, alone, and peaceful.*

“Maybe…it mainly my mind being forced to shut down so my body stops moving.”

"Ah, I see."

*He nodded along.*

"...Yet, I'd say you drew me quite perfectly. I hope you didn't have to work through pain to accomplish it."

“No not at all just some sleepiness.” *He fixed at his mask blushing a bit* “you have an easy profile.”

"I'm relieved to hear that-"

*He paused and tilted his head.*

"...Oh?"

“Uh huh. I learned to draw for Janus so I have to say it’s easier profile than most along with the mask.”

"You did? Wow... I'm... Wow. Ha! I'm impressed."

*He was at a loss for words at that fact. He felt down the face of his mask. It was quite a straight line, all things considered.*

"I'm glad I could be simple for your talented hands."

*He nodded he was writing his list of now a container for the new lipstick. His watch beeped a tiny toon* “I’m not that good Kilroy.” *He stopped his watch*

*He chuckled at the modesty.*

"I suppose we'll have to agree to disagree... What's the beeping for?"

“It’s to check my hart rate and other things but I don’t really care about that right now.” *He flipped a page to draw a concept of the container* “don’t worry about it* *It was around 6:00 pm*

*His eyes widened at that.*

"A-Are you sure? That seems important. I-It shouldn't take that long, right? We can finish your notes after..."

*Crap. Maybe that's what would explain his slowing down. Maybe his heart was going too fast.*

“No it’s fine. If I pass out my body will fix itself….” *His hand jerked and a thick line flew across his drawing. He frowned though it was not seen* “fuck.”

"Roman..."

*He hummed with almost an admonishing tone.*

"Do you take medication for it? I can go get it while you keep drawing. I-I can check your pulse..."

*To be honest, he didn't really know how to do that, but he supposed if his heart was racing, he could feel that.*

“I don’t take any meds except my sleeping pills.” *He sighed and put his journal away* “I shouldn’t have even mentioned it.” *Maybe that showed how important it was he was slipping up* “It’s fine really Kilroy.” *He moved standing up and he gripped the desk tightly*

*And that slip-up was palpable. So much so, that Kilroy jumped up to his feet after him, not worried to rock himself up to be easier on his knees. He held onto Roman at the hip, trying to be an anchor in case he fell or fainted.*

"I don't mean to embarrass you. I want you to be safe. That matters to me. Let's go to the couch. Are the things you need to check it in the bedroom?"

*He cared so much so, that he temporarily left the items he was trying to rescue from the broken desk on the ground.*

“They’re in the bedroom yes if that will get you to stop being a lap dog Jesus.” *It seemed his guilt about the desk was wearing off too with all the touching and such*

*He let go of him.*

"That is what I'm best at being."

*He would've preferred to walk him to the couch, but maybe if he ran to the bedroom quick enough, he could appease Roman's desire to not be patronized.*

"I'll be back."

*He nodded and moved to the couch and looked to the smashed table sighing*

*Kilroy ran into the bedroom, as fast as he could go, darting around to look for these supplies. He checked his nightstand, assuming it would be there.*

*There was a drawer slightly open it had an arm pressure cuff and a finger pressure sensor* “uh god.” *Roman frowned and huffed*

*He quickly opened the drawer fully to take the things out, and wanted to turn and run, but got stuck in a compulsion of opening and closing the drawer a few times.*

"Come on. Come on."

*He silently cursed himself and finished up as soon as he could, racing back to the lounging area.*

"I-I'm h-here!"

*he was laying back on the couch with his eyes closed* “yes? Okay let’s get this over with.” *He sat up*

*He flinched, worried that getting up too quickly would get him lightheaded, as it did for himself.*

"R-Right. Ok. I suppose I'll just slip this on your arm... and this on your finger, and we let the machine do it's thing, right?"

*He narrated as he fumbled with the cuff and pressure sensor to get it on him.*

“Yep.” *He moved to help him put the cuff onto his own arm* “nothing to worry over I’m sure this will read and it’ll be normal.”

*He nodded as a quiet thank you for the assistance and scooted the cuff up as high as he could get it on his arm. He then clipped the finger sensor on, and sat on the couch next to him.*

"I-I'm sure it will be... Thank you for letting me do it for you."

*He had his doubts, especially if Roman was jinxing it.*

“I knew you wouldn’t have dropped it unless I did what you asked.” *The pressure cuff extends a bit making a simple sound and the finger clip takes its time too*

*He gave a nervous grimace.*

"T-That's true. I wouldn't..."

*He watched the equipment move. He hoped Roman wasn't too mad with him. He was just trying to help. He didn't overstep, did he? Gosh, he just... it felt like it could be life or death, and he knew how fixated Roman could get on his work... His thoughts raced, trying to judge his own guilty conscience.*

“Jesus Kilroy take a breathe you’ll make my heart race more with all that. I can feel your anxiousness from here.” *He sighed as his cuff stopped reading 100/140 and his finger clip was about the same*

*His voice caught him out of his spiraling. He blushed.*

"O-Oh. S-Sorry. Sorry..."

*He leaned over to read it too.*

"W-What does that mean? I-Is that g-good? Is it t-too high?"

*He squeaked. He wished he knew more medical information. But the fact that both sensors told the same results made him sure that whatever the answer was, it was accurate.*

“It’s high but that’s just about normal for me…counting the episode I had I say I’m fine. Here get me a sugars free soda and whatever you want to drink.”

*He clearly was very panicked to hear that it was high, but he tried to stifle that feeling, since Roman said he could already tell Kilroy was anxious. He wasn't very good at his poker face, however. And his eyes still looked wild.*

"R-Right, yeah. That d-does m-make sense."

*He looked towards the broken table...*

"Roger! I-I'll go get that."

*He bounced up like a rocket and fled over to the fridge to get him the soda. He surprisingly got himself a water and came back over to give it to him.*

"I h-hope this h-helps."

*He sat down next to him and rocked back and forth, trying to slow down and relax. Roman said he was fine. We trust that. We should, at least.*

“Thank you.” *He opened his hand took a sip he closed his eyes and took a deep breath laying his head back down* “Tell me about your day. I know it was rough with the buttons and the desk what happened before that?”

*He watched him relax. He hardly ever got to see him attempt such a thing. So, it was fascinating to watch... and made him caught off guard by the question.*

"O-Oh-"

*Gosh, it had been such a whirlwind of a day, he nearly forgot about the fiasco with his suit buttons.*

"W-Well, I... It was alright. I woke up later than I'd like to. S-So, I rushed to get ready. I suppose it was just... an anxious day. There's... always a lot going on at home, s-so..."

*He nervously scratched an itch on his arm. He took a deep breath.*

"I came to work as quick as I could. Last night, I did some inventing, though."

*He thought that would interest Roman more than his boring, miserable day.*

“Inventing? Yeah? What did you make?” *His clip went down by one*

*He watched it tick... He was somewhat flattered. He took another deep breath. Relax, Kilroy. It wasn't that bad of a day. You're overreacting. You're still coming down from worrying about him.*

"I'm sorry. I'm ok... I was working on... something for the office."

*He squinted. His memory seemed poor.*

"Oh, I think it was... some sort of better communication device for the staff. Easier than Li having to mumble under his breath so nobody can hear him."

“That’s good.” *he nodded to him as he took off his cuff* “i think Li would like that so when he got angry he doesn’t have to whisper shout.”

"Thank you. Heh, yeah, I'm sure he'd prefer not to hide like that."

*He suddenly remembered the water in his hands and opened it to take a sip, hopefully to remove his remaining anxiety.*

"I thought that maybe it could help things run smoothly around here... but intel only gets you so far. At the end of the day, if nobody knows what to do with it, it's pointless anyway."

*He sighed and leaned back into the couch. He turned his head to Roman.*

"What about your day?"

“I understand. Hm. It’s been okay the morning was good I woke up and exercised a bit before I checked the schedule. Asked Li if anything changed and started on charting and changing how our makeup was going.”

*He wrung his hands around his water bottle as he listened. He smirked.*

“C-Certainly a more productive morning than m-mine! It uh… sounds peaceful. T-Thank you for being here, taking care of things before I show up late everyday.”

“Of course. I mean I’m a door away from work so I don’t really have an excuse to be late.” *He chuckled a bit his heart rate had dropped slightly to a more normal level*

*He smiled more broadly. He liked seeing the man in a good mood… Especially after he’d pestered him so much today.*

“F-Fair point! You seem to have a good schedule. It sounds like it fits you nicely… Good, straightforward routine… Even got a little time to workout. That’s really great, Roman.”

*He took a breath.*

“I must be a cannonball in your day. All over the goddamn place. I’m sorry for making things so complicated.”

“Hm actually no. You have some good ideas different ways of thinking it’s good for business.”

“Y-Yeah? I p-promise I’m not fishing for compliments or anything… I just don’t ever want to get in your way.”

*He was relieved to hear that Roman didn’t think that way about him… Now, just to remove that feeling. He reached out to tap at Roman’s soda.*

“T-Thank you for being so patient with me.”

*He nodded* “it’s not that hard. I have to deal with people who test my patience every day.”

*He gave a weak smirk, more bittersweet than anything.*

“R-Right. You’re very resilient to deal with that all the time. I… have a question. Would you mind if I asked it? Does… Li make you feel better when you’re angry?”

*He looked to him* “I’d say so…I mean he knows what to do. He’s got ways to stop my episodes and all that crap.”

“Oh yeah? T-That’s great, obviously. You two have known each other for a while.”

*He didn’t seem to say why he asked Roman that. He didn’t want to be such a downer. He tried to make himself feel more positive by looking at Roman, as much as he could see of his face through the mask.*

*the mask left much to the imagination with only his eyes and part of his lips showing* “we have yes. He’s a good man and a better assistant.”

*Yet it was just enough to keep Kilroy calm and hopefully to bite his tongue on being more of a crybaby.*

“At least… he’s something you still have here, right?”

*He tried to say something optimistic, considering how much Roman had lost.*

“He is yes. Honestly I don’t know what I would do without his support…don’t tell him that he has a big enough ego.”

*He gave a hearty cackle.*

“Don’t worry, I won’t tell him… Yeah. He is helpful. I wish him and I got along better. I think he still sees me as a problem to overcome. He… I don’t think he cares about my issues like he does yours- N-Not because of a-anything. I just mean… I don’t think he sees me as the boss, yet.”

“Really? I don’t know I think you can be a good boss.” *his arm flew up and he frowned taking it down*

“Yeah? Thank you, Roman.”

*He darted his eyes to his arm. He smiled for a moment, imagining that the arm was agreeing with the sentiment. More logically, afterwards, he let the smile become more sympathetic looking, making sure he knew that Kilroy felt bad about the minor annoyance.*

“Maybe I’m just paranoid. Maybe Li doesn’t think so. I just… I don’t like the way he looks at me when I’m a mess.”

*He shook his head.*

“It shouldn’t matter. He fixed my buttons. He didn’t have to do that.”

“Emotional things aren’t his thing really. I mean if he can solve the problem quickly he doesn’t have patience for it.” *He smiled a bit* “see? If he can fix it he’ll do what he can.”

*He looked down and fidgeted with the new button.*

“You’re right. I should be kinder to him. I wish I didn’t put my baggage on him. I’m sure he could use me appreciating his work more. I should apologize to him.”

“Maybe you should.” *He shrugs longer than necessary before he groans and punches his shoulder*

“H-Hey… Hey.”

*He quickly brought his hands to Roman’s shoulder.*

“…”

*He wanted to tell him a reason not to do that, but he knew like himself, Roman liked pain. So, it was hard to tell him not to, even if he didn’t do it for pleasure.*

“It’s just to stop it don’t worry.” *his shoulders did stop moving* “see?”

*He frowned.*

“Y-Yeah. It… did work. Hm. And that didn’t hurt?”

“Kinda but it’s not a big deal if it’ll stop my body fro a bit*

*He took a breath.*

“I suppose that is a trade-off… I just don’t want you bruising yourself. I’m glad something works for it.”

*He brought his water bottle up like an ice pack for his shoulder.*

*He rolled his eyes a bit but smiled* “it’s fine. I’m a man I’m not worried about a bruise.”

“Mask!” *his eyes squeezed closed and he put a hand over his mouth trying to calm himself down*

@mr-david-li

You’re doing great, sir. V-Very good. Just hang on, Roman.

It felt agonizingly long, but eventually, the elevator dinged, and the doors opened.

Li ran ahead to open the double doors for the man.

We’re here. Let’s go. Let it out in here.

Li focused his attention on the mask, examining the fracture in it and how it could be repaired. He knew regardless it would never be the same level of antiquity.

He looked up. Kilroy would be very sad about his desk. That thing meant so much to him. Where was Kilroy? Gosh, they left him behind, didn’t they?

He approached the scene, keeping a wide distance from Roman, until he was in his line of sight.

Be careful of the splinters, sir.

Li didn’t fear being hit, and didn’t recoil at the sight of his raised fists, even if he should have.

I know this is very hard for you, sir. None of us wanted this, or could have predicted it.

…Do you need something else to break?

I’ll find a replacement for the desk…

Why don’t you take a seat on the couch?

Is there anything besides something else to break that I can get you? Any pain anywhere? I can get a drink or an ice pack.

He walked past him to the lounging area, knowing that he could be hit if he came closer.

Thank you.

He acknowledged as he sat down. He sighed and walked towards the door to get what he asked for, when he paused.

You think so?

He obviously agreed, but he didn’t expect Roman to think of it so soon. He took off his glasses to rub his eyes. He couldn’t be in two places at once.

I can page him to see if he’ll come back upstairs… If he doesn’t… Well, that’s not something you should worry about, sir. I will handle it.

He said, very unconvincingly.

*He closed his eyes it felt like his heart was slowing down* “yes. I-I’m sorry just stupid I didn’t mean to get so upset.” *Ig just bubbles over* “hm.”

I understand, sir. It’s not your fault at all. You had every reason to be upset.

You stay there. I’ll get your coffee… a-and put this down.

He lifted the mask to emphasis it.

Of course, sir. It is my honor.

He stepped outside, and the sound of his dress shoes echoed down the hall.

Li sighed.

He’s not answering…

He mumbled to himself.

Li put his pager away, seeing that it was not working to get Kilroy back. He decided to focus on the coffee. He went to the machine in his office and started dispensing the coffee into a mug.

He looked at the mask, setting the two halves on his desk. In all these years, Roman never had broken a mask.

…Roman’s phone buzzed with a call.

*He sighed but growled and picked up the phone from his pocket* “Roman speaking. What ya want?”

"R-Roman?"

*Kilroy sniffled from the other end.*

"I-I'm s-so sorry. I d-didn't know it would d-do that. I w-would n-never want to b-break your m-mask. I-I'm so sorry. Y-You must f-feel awful."

“Kilroy…look it’s fine.” *He groans* “It was not the rarest mask I…I am upset to have it broken but I don’t blame you.” *He rubbed his head and closed his eyes*

"I-I know h-how m-much it m-means t-to you. C-Can I find you a n-new one? Piece it b-back together?"

*He knew he was bothering him. He should have just left the office, maybe go to a bar. That would be escaping responsibility, though.*

“Kilroy no it’s okay. It’s a wood fossil mask they make the them custom I have a guy.” *He gagged a bit his head throbbed to much*

"Y-You have a g-guy- W-What was that? Are you ok? Are you sick? Are you throwing up?!"

*Kilroy seemed to panic at that.*

“My head just hurts…” *He sighed* “I got really angry. My head is throbbing.”

"O-Oh. I s-see."

*His voice was a little louder, suggesting that he got closer to the microphone as he gripped the phone tighter.*

"I t-thought you would be. That's ok. You really should be angry. I'm sorry about your head though. C-Can I help?"

“I would be if I could. You’ll probably be mad at me l slammed your desk and broke the table…”

*He was quiet for a while.*

"...My desk?"

*There were some sounds of fabric rubbing against itself as Kilroy readjusted.*

"W-What... What about all the things inside it?"

“I don’t know.” *He waited for a reaction though he felt like he was going to pass out his leg kicked in the couch and he huffed*

"O-Ok. I'll... I'll c-come up and see."

"I d-don't want Li to talk to me, though."

“Can he at least come in to give me pain pills?” *He mumbled to Kilroy if he wasn’t in so much pain he’d wonder why and maybe defend li talking with him*

"O-Of course... Of course, Roman."

*He was relieved to hear that he would take medicine like that, and not just tough it out. As such, his response was more toned about that, rather than about letting Li in.*

"I... um... I h-hope it helps."

*He nodded not that Kilroy could see it*

"A-Alright, I'll um... get up there. Stay there. A-And I can stay on the p-phone in c-case something happens, if y-you'd like, o-or... or w-whatever you need."

*There were the sounds of him rustling out from under the table. At that time, there was the soft knock of Li back on the double doors, to signal his entrance back with the supplies.*

“Come in if you have pill.” *He groaned this was just about the worst episode he had in a while*

Li stepped in with a tray, which he planned to put on the coffee table, but then realized.

Ah...

He set it on the cushions of another couch and came over to Roman with the pain relievers in one hand and the coffee mug in his other.

Here you are, sir.

*He moved putting the pill in his mouth chewing* “thank you Li and Kilroy doesn’t want to talk to you. I can talk to him if he’s not upset about his desk.” *He slowly sat up and took the mug*

The man paused and furrowed his brow. He didn't realize why Kilroy would seemingly be upset at him.

Oh... Alright.

He shook the confusion off and readjusted his glasses.

Is the coffee to your liking? Would you care for sugar or cream?

“No no I just need something to put my head back on.” *He gulp half the mug then sighed* “great.”

He nodded and gave a small smile to see him taking care of himself, even if in an extreme manner.

You talked to Kilroy then, I realize?

“I mumbled some things to Kilroy. Really I just told him about the desk and listened to him.”

Hm... That's good, of course, since I couldn't go down to see him. I assume he's coming up then?... And he doesn't want me here.

Let me make sure you're all set before I can leave you alone. I don't want you in any sort of danger.

“I’m not in danger what you think he’s going to go off the handle and stab me?” *He thought for a moment* “He may stab me you should have a med kit on hand.”

He's not going to stab you... But, I'll bring a kit in case he hurts himself. I'll be right outside, ok? I... could keep him away, if you'd rather just rest.

He held his hands out, first to make sure Roman wasn't hurt and going to fall over. Perhaps he'd gotten too used to Kilroy's fragility.

He took the card, looking it over, before tucking it in his suit. He nodded.

Will do, sir. I shall see you later then. I'll work on the mask.

He gestured for him to head out the door.

*He nodded and moved to his room to get another mask he couldn’t help noticing how valuable he was without it*

*Li left as Roman went to get ready. It was a while later before the hinges of the double doors creaked again, supposedly as Kilroy was coming in.*

*He was still looking through his chest looking through all of them one of his masks breaking made him very…uncomfortable?*

*He looked over them picking a metal mask he had gotten it as a working project to see which metal would be best for his face he clicked it on and stood coming out*

“…” *He moved and sat by him* “I’m sorry.” *He huffed* “look I can get you a desk that looks exactly like this one. I shouldn’t have taken my anger out on your things.”

*He moved hugging him to the side* “of course. We should get you a safe for all of your…Roman stuff.”

"I-I hadn't thought of that. I want to do that."

*He croaked out, his voice sounding hoarse now. He said it as a statement, but really he was asking the man, like as if he wasn't allowed to have or to want that unless he said so.*

“Really? Yes. We can do that heavy duty stuff…something I can’t break.” *His hand twitched and rubbed Kilroys arm* “I am still so sorry.”

*Kilroy certainly liked the physical affirmation.*

"I know you are. It's n-not your fault. It's mine. With my stupid gun."

*He planned now to scrap it after this. He didn't care if it worked. He wanted it gone. He huffed, exhaling his irrationality.*

"I'm really sorry about your m-mask."

*He reached up with his looser arm in the hug to touch Roman's hand that had twitched.*

“No it’s okay I get to have another one. It was wood basically nothing to go.” *He let him touch not minding much* “the gun was cool.”

"Y-Yeah? I just... I've n-never hurt one of R-Roman's masks b-before. I-It's one of the w-worst things I c-could do. I already l-let h-him d-die on m-me. N-Now this? I s-shouldn't b-be here."

*His voice pitched, and his skin felt hot to himself, getting pink in the heat of the emotion.*

"I'll have it dismantled."

*He treated his machines like dogs. If they bit someone, they got put down.*

"T-Thank you, f-for giving me another c-chance. I k-know I k-keep messing up. That's... why I didn't want Li to come in here. He doesn't like when I cry."

*He took a deep breath.*

"I guess I invest my emotions in things t-too much. But, I get very sad, n-not angry."

*He smiled and nudged him a bit. Of course, he didn't mean the debilitating parts of it. More... his bluntness. His steadfastness in situations. His dry humor.*

“You think so?” *he thought about it and couldn’t see his anger as a positive reaction except maybe when he was hurting people*

*He giggled, making his previous tears glimmer in the light.*

"Oh, yeah! You show people their place. You make... things less scary, by being the strongest thing in the room."

“Ha you think I’m the strongest thing in the room?” *he laughed more at that*

*He felt all coy, giddy by Roman's laugh.*

"I'd bet my life on it."

*He tucked his head into his shoulders more and got a little softer in his voice.*

*He tilted his head to him, as though still admiring his strength and charisma while listening to the man deny it.*

“You act perfectly. They must be brain dead o-or severely misguided. You’re the best person on the planet.”

*He slow blinked for only a moment, seemingly taking in how nice that statement felt.*

“Even the people you kill. Their last thought should be, ‘wow.’ That was mine, at least.”

“Wow? Hm mostly I think it’s screaming for mercy or whatever there life was like before.”

*That… did make sense…*

“Well, at least they think of you as godly, having to beg to you. That’s closer to the truth.”

*He shrugged, and leaned closer against him, smelling his cologne and feeling the heat of his body.*

“I’ve never seen someone who hurts like you do.”

“Now that’s a compliment.” *His leg jumped and he sighed* “I’ve never seen someone with ideas like you.”

*That made his breath hitch. He didn’t expect Roman to compliment him for anything.*

“N-No? G-Gosh… uh… T-Thank you, Roman.”

*He compulsively tapped at the man, feeling so happy and honored, that his brain felt the need to count to not lose the feeling.*

“Of course it’s the least I can do for you right now…” *He looked at all the memories that Cain had in his arms. Things he could have destroyed from having that outburst*

*The excitement of their discussion nearly had him forget his distress. He followed his gaze to the items, which he was still holding so tightly. He slouched and let the papers be seen in his lap.*

“You two are very special to me. I-… He made me feel so… just… happy. It gave me a reason to live.”

*He felt a need to - poorly - explain, rather than realize Roman was feeling guilty.*

“I’m glad he did. I just I wasn’t thinking when I came in here slamming things over.”

“Oh…”

*He glanced more at the wood splinters they were sitting around.*

“…you’re in my head huh?” *He asked mainly hoping he wasn’t going as soft as he thought he was when it came to this whole situation*

*His eyes widened a bit.*

“N-No- I m-mean… No… Not really. I can only catches glimpses. Trust me, most of this is just me knowing you.”

*He put his hand on the man’s thigh and smiled.*

“It’s an unfair advantage, I’m aware. I know I don’t know you, I just… know your memories. And I… I wish I could be there to help you feel better.”

*He looked into his eyes, able to tell he was thinking about something, though he couldn’t tell what.*

“It’s okay. Really I don’t mind all that much.” *He smiled god he’d reader him a new desk and whatever else he’d need to make this right.”

*He sighed.*

“You push through too much. You’re a sweetheart.”

*His smile made him utterly relaxed, disregarding anything and everything of the day.*

“Can I… give you a full hug? T-To move past this whole thing, for both of us.”

“Sure. To move past this.” *He moved and gently hugged him trying his best not to squeeze too hard or twitch and snap something*

“T-Thank you.”

“…What mask is this, now?”

“It’s a aluminum mask model. It can be modified easily and it’s very cheap but I got it to test out the material.”

*That made him perk up. He giggled.*

“Ah, now we match. I like it. It suits you well.”

“You think so? I liked how chill it feels.” *He tapped it a bit* “it’s a good sound too.”

*He shyly offered. He moved in the hug to catch a glance at Roman’s mask.*

“Maybe. I would like your input I’m sure.” *the mask shined and shifted in the light it was a contrast to his deep dull eyes*

*He gave a big, toothy grin to that.*

"Thank you! I think this could be a fun project- i-if I'm not intruding on your artistic methods, o-of course."

*He darted his eyes around the metal, trying to make guesses to the alloy composition and how it was shaped.*

"It's beautiful..."

“No no you wouldn’t be.” *He nodded jerking his head a bit* “the mask? Yes. Sometimes simple is better.”

"Y-Yes, the mask. Mm, I agree. It leaves a lot more up to interpretation. More room for artistic liberty in the audience... or perhaps your opponent."

*He made note of his jerking, trying to settle himself softer on Roman's body to maybe put him at ease.*

"I'm sorry, am I staring too much?"

“Half my opponent are simple. Nothing to them and no great advantage.” *He shook his head* “no I don’t mind you looking.”

*He softened his expression to his denial.*

"I'm glad. I just... worried I made you nervous... since you twitched."

“Oh. Sometimes my body just twitch’s it’s no big deal. You don’t have to worry about it.” *Nervous. Please as if he’d ever be nervous…*

"Oh, alright. I just... You were twitching a lot when your mask... broke."

“Yeah…yeah my brain was trying to shut itself down. Too much anger and well sadness.”

"I see... You know yourself very well."

*Even though his words were very casual, his expression got very disheartened. He didn't mean to give Roman so much discomfort. And this proved to him that he did feel such emotions.*

"I... didn't think anyone in the warehouse saw you, if that makes you feel better."

“I know that doctors are idiots and my parents were worse.” *He glares a bit at memories before he shook his head* “That’s good though.”

*He stiffened at his resentful hiss.*

"Y-Yeah. T-They were... I wish someone could help you, Roman. I don't want you to hurt like this."

*He didn't seem aware of Li's plans to kidnap that doctor for the man.*

*He tried to hug him again, even if he was in danger of getting hit by his twitches.*

"I-I know... But, I do care. U-Unless it makes you feel worse, if I do. I just... It makes me sad. I know it shouldn't, but I just wish I could... hold you like this, and let you relax."

*He wished he could tell himself to stop making a big deal about this. It was making Roman feel worse about it, he was sure.*

"Y-Yeah? I-I'm g-glad - very glad - it doesn't m-make it worse."

*He sighed, resting his chin on his shoulder.*

"That's a good way to describe it. But I feel like sometimes it's like asthma for you."

“…hm” *His hands slammed to the floor* “asthma.”

*He grimaced at the velocity of the strike, darting his hand to look his over for redness.*

"Y-Yeah. Asthma. It's livable... but a little different or hard for you."

“That does make sense.” *He fixes his suit*

"Yeah? It does? That's good, I imagine, right? N-Not... that it feels that way. Just that... it's an analogy that fits."

*He watched him fidget, still hanging onto him.*

"Are you thinking about it very hard?"

*He made a guess to what his business partner was fixated on.*

“That and the new lipstick, getting a new mask.” *It was a mixed bag up there but his thoughts did move slow from one topic to another*

"Mm, yeah?"

"Would writing it down help?"

*He blinked, confused... surprised... at what he was seeing. He lowered his head with a quiet smile and faint blush and reached for the journal.*

"Let me help you. Where's the next empty page?"

“Yes…uh yes. It should be after five pages.” *He blinked rapidly*

"Wonderful. Thank you."

*His gratitude likely extended subtly to the idea of being sketched, as well. He lightly flipped through the journal for him, landing on the empty page to slide the man's thumb back onto.*

"You have a pen?"

“Yes.” *He moved tapping his suit and gave it to him. It was a nice gel pen*

"Ah, thank you. This is a good pen. I bet it writes smooth... You... want me to write it? Or would you rather do that?"

*He smiled a bit at the fact that he gave it to him, instead of using it.*

“Hm you should write I’m a bit jumpy right now.” *He sighed and moved to sit on his hands a old trick he used we he was little*

“Sure thing, Roman. Take your time.”

*He lifted his knee up to hold the journal to and opened the pen.*

*He watched him sit on his hands. He knew he was likely shy about the gesture, but he was personally happy that Roman knew something that worked for him, even if it came from a place of desperation.*

“O-Oh, wow. Fossilized wood…”

“…that’s an idea. Write it down.” *He nodded which turned into a jerk* “I’m sure Li could get a mask…I had my old mask seller he knew I was good for his best. I know him for a while.”

“Of course. Wilco.”

*He took the command and scribbled that in the growing notes section. He dotted a period and looked back up at Roman, more sympathetically.*

“Yeah? I’m sorry that you don’t have your seller here. That must be quite frustrating to lose.”

“Oh it is. I have to make a whole new profile with this guy it’s painstakingly hard.”

“Gosh. I’m sorry. I wish there was a way to expedite that for you. I’m sure you’re a good enough client that it should figure out.”

*He patted his shoulder.*

“He should figure it out! God half the time his information is wrong can you believe that?! He’s the only asshole that has good suggestions of masks and art and he’s a dumbass!”

“Oh- Jesus… That is awful.”

*He was glad Roman was letting his frustration out here, instead of letting it build, even if it didn’t take away the situation itself.*

“Maybe that lets you pull the wool over him easier on deals?”

“Hm. I do it doesn’t change his prices.”

“Ah, dang it. I just… don’t want this making your blood pressure go up. It’s not worth it.”

*He softly brushed his claw against Roman’s chest, above his heart.*

“Could he be persuaded through… other means?”

*Kilroy meant to suggest perhaps threatening the man.*

*He smiled then laughed loudly and rapidly* “per-Ha-persuade him?” *He continued to laugh* “look I’m open minded to most things but I don’t think that would work.”

*He leaned back to let the booming sound not hurt his ears. He blinked and darted his eyes around Roman, to figure out how awful his suggestion was.*

“N-No? I suppose if he’s that dense, it probably wouldn’t work anyway.”

*Even if Kilroy had said something so silly, maybe it’d taken Roman’s mind off being frustrated.*

*He continued laughing until it turned quiet.* “no I don’t think it would work.” *He let his face drop and relaxed*

“Glad I gave you a good laugh, at least. So… That’s item one on your list. Should I write down the next one?”

*He patted his shoulder and rubbed his arm.*

*His suit was a high quality feel it was tight and smooth* “I think I’ve got it.” *He moved to get back his journal*

“Ah- I’m glad to hear it.”

*He winked and handed him back the pen and journal. The comforting sensation of his luxury suit would always stay in his mind.*

*He moved to write his writing was a bit more messy and as he wrote his hand jerked and scribbled*

*He smiled the whole way through, hoping that maybe that would help him tremor less.*

“You uh… I liked your drawing, b-by the way.”

*He gave a quick glance to him* “…thank you.” *He cleared his throat* “I was half asleep really.”

"Yeah? Even more impressive then... drawing when you're tired."

*Internally, that made him even more giddy to think that Roman thought about him in those quiet moments, alone, and peaceful.*

“Maybe…it mainly my mind being forced to shut down so my body stops moving.”

"Ah, I see."

*He nodded along.*

"...Yet, I'd say you drew me quite perfectly. I hope you didn't have to work through pain to accomplish it."

“No not at all just some sleepiness.” *He fixed at his mask blushing a bit* “you have an easy profile.”

"I'm relieved to hear that-"

*He paused and tilted his head.*

"...Oh?"

“Uh huh. I learned to draw for Janus so I have to say it’s easier profile than most along with the mask.”

"You did? Wow... I'm... Wow. Ha! I'm impressed."

*He was at a loss for words at that fact. He felt down the face of his mask. It was quite a straight line, all things considered.*

"I'm glad I could be simple for your talented hands."

*He nodded he was writing his list of now a container for the new lipstick. His watch beeped a tiny toon* “I’m not that good Kilroy.” *He stopped his watch*

*He chuckled at the modesty.*

"I suppose we'll have to agree to disagree... What's the beeping for?"

*His eyes widened at that.*

"A-Are you sure? That seems important. I-It shouldn't take that long, right? We can finish your notes after..."

*Crap. Maybe that's what would explain his slowing down. Maybe his heart was going too fast.*

“No it’s fine. If I pass out my body will fix itself….” *His hand jerked and a thick line flew across his drawing. He frowned though it was not seen* “fuck.”

"Roman..."

*He hummed with almost an admonishing tone.*

"Do you take medication for it? I can go get it while you keep drawing. I-I can check your pulse..."

*To be honest, he didn't really know how to do that, but he supposed if his heart was racing, he could feel that.*

"I don't mean to embarrass you. I want you to be safe. That matters to me. Let's go to the couch. Are the things you need to check it in the bedroom?"

*He cared so much so, that he temporarily left the items he was trying to rescue from the broken desk on the ground.*

“They’re in the bedroom yes if that will get you to stop being a lap dog Jesus.” *It seemed his guilt about the desk was wearing off too with all the touching and such*

*He let go of him.*

"That is what I'm best at being."

*He would've preferred to walk him to the couch, but maybe if he ran to the bedroom quick enough, he could appease Roman's desire to not be patronized.*

"I'll be back."

*He nodded and moved to the couch and looked to the smashed table sighing*

*Kilroy ran into the bedroom, as fast as he could go, darting around to look for these supplies. He checked his nightstand, assuming it would be there.*

*There was a drawer slightly open it had an arm pressure cuff and a finger pressure sensor* “uh god.” *Roman frowned and huffed*

*He quickly opened the drawer fully to take the things out, and wanted to turn and run, but got stuck in a compulsion of opening and closing the drawer a few times.*

"Come on. Come on."

*He silently cursed himself and finished up as soon as he could, racing back to the lounging area.*

"I-I'm h-here!"

*he was laying back on the couch with his eyes closed* “yes? Okay let’s get this over with.” *He sat up*

*He flinched, worried that getting up too quickly would get him lightheaded, as it did for himself.*

"R-Right. Ok. I suppose I'll just slip this on your arm... and this on your finger, and we let the machine do it's thing, right?"

*He narrated as he fumbled with the cuff and pressure sensor to get it on him.*

“Yep.” *He moved to help him put the cuff onto his own arm* “nothing to worry over I’m sure this will read and it’ll be normal.”

*He nodded as a quiet thank you for the assistance and scooted the cuff up as high as he could get it on his arm. He then clipped the finger sensor on, and sat on the couch next to him.*

"I-I'm sure it will be... Thank you for letting me do it for you."

*He had his doubts, especially if Roman was jinxing it.*

“I knew you wouldn’t have dropped it unless I did what you asked.” *The pressure cuff extends a bit making a simple sound and the finger clip takes its time too*

*He gave a nervous grimace.*

"T-That's true. I wouldn't..."

*His voice caught him out of his spiraling. He blushed.*

"O-Oh. S-Sorry. Sorry..."

*He leaned over to read it too.*

"W-What does that mean? I-Is that g-good? Is it t-too high?"

*He squeaked. He wished he knew more medical information. But the fact that both sensors told the same results made him sure that whatever the answer was, it was accurate.*

“It’s high but that’s just about normal for me…counting the episode I had I say I’m fine. Here get me a sugars free soda and whatever you want to drink.”

"R-Right, yeah. That d-does m-make sense."

*He looked towards the broken table...*

"Roger! I-I'll go get that."

*He bounced up like a rocket and fled over to the fridge to get him the soda. He surprisingly got himself a water and came back over to give it to him.*

"I h-hope this h-helps."

*He sat down next to him and rocked back and forth, trying to slow down and relax. Roman said he was fine. We trust that. We should, at least.*

*He watched him relax. He hardly ever got to see him attempt such a thing. So, it was fascinating to watch... and made him caught off guard by the question.*

"O-Oh-"

*Gosh, it had been such a whirlwind of a day, he nearly forgot about the fiasco with his suit buttons.*

"W-Well, I... It was alright. I woke up later than I'd like to. S-So, I rushed to get ready. I suppose it was just... an anxious day. There's... always a lot going on at home, s-so..."

*He nervously scratched an itch on his arm. He took a deep breath.*

"I came to work as quick as I could. Last night, I did some inventing, though."

*He thought that would interest Roman more than his boring, miserable day.*

“Inventing? Yeah? What did you make?” *His clip went down by one*

*He watched it tick... He was somewhat flattered. He took another deep breath. Relax, Kilroy. It wasn't that bad of a day. You're overreacting. You're still coming down from worrying about him.*

"I'm sorry. I'm ok... I was working on... something for the office."

*He squinted. His memory seemed poor.*

"Oh, I think it was... some sort of better communication device for the staff. Easier than Li having to mumble under his breath so nobody can hear him."

“That’s good.” *he nodded to him as he took off his cuff* “i think Li would like that so when he got angry he doesn’t have to whisper shout.”

"Thank you. Heh, yeah, I'm sure he'd prefer not to hide like that."

*He suddenly remembered the water in his hands and opened it to take a sip, hopefully to remove his remaining anxiety.*

"I thought that maybe it could help things run smoothly around here... but intel only gets you so far. At the end of the day, if nobody knows what to do with it, it's pointless anyway."

*He sighed and leaned back into the couch. He turned his head to Roman.*

"What about your day?"

*He wrung his hands around his water bottle as he listened. He smirked.*

“C-Certainly a more productive morning than m-mine! It uh… sounds peaceful. T-Thank you for being here, taking care of things before I show up late everyday.”

“Of course. I mean I’m a door away from work so I don’t really have an excuse to be late.” *He chuckled a bit his heart rate had dropped slightly to a more normal level*

*He smiled more broadly. He liked seeing the man in a good mood… Especially after he’d pestered him so much today.*

“F-Fair point! You seem to have a good schedule. It sounds like it fits you nicely… Good, straightforward routine… Even got a little time to workout. That’s really great, Roman.”

*He took a breath.*

“I must be a cannonball in your day. All over the goddamn place. I’m sorry for making things so complicated.”

“Hm actually no. You have some good ideas different ways of thinking it’s good for business.”

“Y-Yeah? I p-promise I’m not fishing for compliments or anything… I just don’t ever want to get in your way.”

*He was relieved to hear that Roman didn’t think that way about him… Now, just to remove that feeling. He reached out to tap at Roman’s soda.*

“T-Thank you for being so patient with me.”

*He nodded* “it’s not that hard. I have to deal with people who test my patience every day.”

*He gave a weak smirk, more bittersweet than anything.*

“R-Right. You’re very resilient to deal with that all the time. I… have a question. Would you mind if I asked it? Does… Li make you feel better when you’re angry?”

*He looked to him* “I’d say so…I mean he knows what to do. He’s got ways to stop my episodes and all that crap.”

“Oh yeah? T-That’s great, obviously. You two have known each other for a while.”

*the mask left much to the imagination with only his eyes and part of his lips showing* “we have yes. He’s a good man and a better assistant.”

*Yet it was just enough to keep Kilroy calm and hopefully to bite his tongue on being more of a crybaby.*

“At least… he’s something you still have here, right?”

*He tried to say something optimistic, considering how much Roman had lost.*

“He is yes. Honestly I don’t know what I would do without his support…don’t tell him that he has a big enough ego.”

*He gave a hearty cackle.*

“Really? I don’t know I think you can be a good boss.” *his arm flew up and he frowned taking it down*

“Yeah? Thank you, Roman.”

“Maybe I’m just paranoid. Maybe Li doesn’t think so. I just… I don’t like the way he looks at me when I’m a mess.”

*He shook his head.*

“It shouldn’t matter. He fixed my buttons. He didn’t have to do that.”

“Emotional things aren’t his thing really. I mean if he can solve the problem quickly he doesn’t have patience for it.” *He smiled a bit* “see? If he can fix it he’ll do what he can.”

*He looked down and fidgeted with the new button.*

“You’re right. I should be kinder to him. I wish I didn’t put my baggage on him. I’m sure he could use me appreciating his work more. I should apologize to him.”

“Maybe you should.” *He shrugs longer than necessary before he groans and punches his shoulder*

“H-Hey… Hey.”

*He quickly brought his hands to Roman’s shoulder.*

“…”

*He wanted to tell him a reason not to do that, but he knew like himself, Roman liked pain. So, it was hard to tell him not to, even if he didn’t do it for pleasure.*

“It’s just to stop it don’t worry.” *his shoulders did stop moving* “see?”

*He frowned.*

“Y-Yeah. It… did work. Hm. And that didn’t hurt?”

“Kinda but it’s not a big deal if it’ll stop my body fro a bit*

“Mask!” *his eyes squeezed closed and he put a hand over his mouth trying to calm himself down*

@mr-david-li

You’re doing great, sir. V-Very good. Just hang on, Roman.

It felt agonizingly long, but eventually, the elevator dinged, and the doors opened.

Li ran ahead to open the double doors for the man.

We’re here. Let’s go. Let it out in here.

Li focused his attention on the mask, examining the fracture in it and how it could be repaired. He knew regardless it would never be the same level of antiquity.

He looked up. Kilroy would be very sad about his desk. That thing meant so much to him. Where was Kilroy? Gosh, they left him behind, didn’t they?

He approached the scene, keeping a wide distance from Roman, until he was in his line of sight.

Be careful of the splinters, sir.

Li didn’t fear being hit, and didn’t recoil at the sight of his raised fists, even if he should have.

I know this is very hard for you, sir. None of us wanted this, or could have predicted it.

…Do you need something else to break?

I’ll find a replacement for the desk…

Why don’t you take a seat on the couch?

Is there anything besides something else to break that I can get you? Any pain anywhere? I can get a drink or an ice pack.

He walked past him to the lounging area, knowing that he could be hit if he came closer.

Thank you.

He acknowledged as he sat down. He sighed and walked towards the door to get what he asked for, when he paused.

You think so?

He obviously agreed, but he didn’t expect Roman to think of it so soon. He took off his glasses to rub his eyes. He couldn’t be in two places at once.

I can page him to see if he’ll come back upstairs… If he doesn’t… Well, that’s not something you should worry about, sir. I will handle it.

He said, very unconvincingly.

*He closed his eyes it felt like his heart was slowing down* “yes. I-I’m sorry just stupid I didn’t mean to get so upset.” *Ig just bubbles over* “hm.”

I understand, sir. It’s not your fault at all. You had every reason to be upset.

You stay there. I’ll get your coffee… a-and put this down.

He lifted the mask to emphasis it.

Of course, sir. It is my honor.

He stepped outside, and the sound of his dress shoes echoed down the hall.

Li sighed.

He’s not answering…

He mumbled to himself.

Li put his pager away, seeing that it was not working to get Kilroy back. He decided to focus on the coffee. He went to the machine in his office and started dispensing the coffee into a mug.

He looked at the mask, setting the two halves on his desk. In all these years, Roman never had broken a mask.

…Roman’s phone buzzed with a call.

*He sighed but growled and picked up the phone from his pocket* “Roman speaking. What ya want?”

"R-Roman?"

*Kilroy sniffled from the other end.*

"I-I'm s-so sorry. I d-didn't know it would d-do that. I w-would n-never want to b-break your m-mask. I-I'm so sorry. Y-You must f-feel awful."

“Kilroy…look it’s fine.” *He groans* “It was not the rarest mask I…I am upset to have it broken but I don’t blame you.” *He rubbed his head and closed his eyes*

"I-I know h-how m-much it m-means t-to you. C-Can I find you a n-new one? Piece it b-back together?"

*He knew he was bothering him. He should have just left the office, maybe go to a bar. That would be escaping responsibility, though.*

“Kilroy no it’s okay. It’s a wood fossil mask they make the them custom I have a guy.” *He gagged a bit his head throbbed to much*

"Y-You have a g-guy- W-What was that? Are you ok? Are you sick? Are you throwing up?!"

*Kilroy seemed to panic at that.*

“My head just hurts…” *He sighed* “I got really angry. My head is throbbing.”

"O-Oh. I s-see."

*His voice was a little louder, suggesting that he got closer to the microphone as he gripped the phone tighter.*

"I t-thought you would be. That's ok. You really should be angry. I'm sorry about your head though. C-Can I help?"

“I would be if I could. You’ll probably be mad at me l slammed your desk and broke the table…”

*He was quiet for a while.*

"...My desk?"

*There were some sounds of fabric rubbing against itself as Kilroy readjusted.*

"W-What... What about all the things inside it?"

“I don’t know.” *He waited for a reaction though he felt like he was going to pass out his leg kicked in the couch and he huffed*

"O-Ok. I'll... I'll c-come up and see."

"I d-don't want Li to talk to me, though."

“Can he at least come in to give me pain pills?” *He mumbled to Kilroy if he wasn’t in so much pain he’d wonder why and maybe defend li talking with him*

"O-Of course... Of course, Roman."

*He was relieved to hear that he would take medicine like that, and not just tough it out. As such, his response was more toned about that, rather than about letting Li in.*

"I... um... I h-hope it helps."

*He nodded not that Kilroy could see it*

"A-Alright, I'll um... get up there. Stay there. A-And I can stay on the p-phone in c-case something happens, if y-you'd like, o-or... or w-whatever you need."

*There were the sounds of him rustling out from under the table. At that time, there was the soft knock of Li back on the double doors, to signal his entrance back with the supplies.*

“Come in if you have pill.” *He groaned this was just about the worst episode he had in a while*

Li stepped in with a tray, which he planned to put on the coffee table, but then realized.

Ah...

He set it on the cushions of another couch and came over to Roman with the pain relievers in one hand and the coffee mug in his other.

Here you are, sir.

*He moved putting the pill in his mouth chewing* “thank you Li and Kilroy doesn’t want to talk to you. I can talk to him if he’s not upset about his desk.” *He slowly sat up and took the mug*

The man paused and furrowed his brow. He didn't realize why Kilroy would seemingly be upset at him.

Oh... Alright.

He shook the confusion off and readjusted his glasses.

Is the coffee to your liking? Would you care for sugar or cream?

“No no I just need something to put my head back on.” *He gulp half the mug then sighed* “great.”

He nodded and gave a small smile to see him taking care of himself, even if in an extreme manner.

You talked to Kilroy then, I realize?

“I mumbled some things to Kilroy. Really I just told him about the desk and listened to him.”

Hm... That's good, of course, since I couldn't go down to see him. I assume he's coming up then?... And he doesn't want me here.

Let me make sure you're all set before I can leave you alone. I don't want you in any sort of danger.

“I’m not in danger what you think he’s going to go off the handle and stab me?” *He thought for a moment* “He may stab me you should have a med kit on hand.”

He's not going to stab you... But, I'll bring a kit in case he hurts himself. I'll be right outside, ok? I... could keep him away, if you'd rather just rest.

He held his hands out, first to make sure Roman wasn't hurt and going to fall over. Perhaps he'd gotten too used to Kilroy's fragility.

He took the card, looking it over, before tucking it in his suit. He nodded.

Will do, sir. I shall see you later then. I'll work on the mask.

He gestured for him to head out the door.

*He nodded and moved to his room to get another mask he couldn’t help noticing how valuable he was without it*

*Li left as Roman went to get ready. It was a while later before the hinges of the double doors creaked again, supposedly as Kilroy was coming in.*

*He was still looking through his chest looking through all of them one of his masks breaking made him very…uncomfortable?*

*He looked over them picking a metal mask he had gotten it as a working project to see which metal would be best for his face he clicked it on and stood coming out*

“…” *He moved and sat by him* “I’m sorry.” *He huffed* “look I can get you a desk that looks exactly like this one. I shouldn’t have taken my anger out on your things.”

*He moved hugging him to the side* “of course. We should get you a safe for all of your…Roman stuff.”

"I-I hadn't thought of that. I want to do that."

*He croaked out, his voice sounding hoarse now. He said it as a statement, but really he was asking the man, like as if he wasn't allowed to have or to want that unless he said so.*

“Really? Yes. We can do that heavy duty stuff…something I can’t break.” *His hand twitched and rubbed Kilroys arm* “I am still so sorry.”

*Kilroy certainly liked the physical affirmation.*

"I know you are. It's n-not your fault. It's mine. With my stupid gun."

*He planned now to scrap it after this. He didn't care if it worked. He wanted it gone. He huffed, exhaling his irrationality.*

"I'm really sorry about your m-mask."

*He reached up with his looser arm in the hug to touch Roman's hand that had twitched.*

“No it’s okay I get to have another one. It was wood basically nothing to go.” *He let him touch not minding much* “the gun was cool.”

"Y-Yeah? I just... I've n-never hurt one of R-Roman's masks b-before. I-It's one of the w-worst things I c-could do. I already l-let h-him d-die on m-me. N-Now this? I s-shouldn't b-be here."

*His voice pitched, and his skin felt hot to himself, getting pink in the heat of the emotion.*

"I'll have it dismantled."

*He treated his machines like dogs. If they bit someone, they got put down.*

"T-Thank you, f-for giving me another c-chance. I k-know I k-keep messing up. That's... why I didn't want Li to come in here. He doesn't like when I cry."

*He took a deep breath.*

"I guess I invest my emotions in things t-too much. But, I get very sad, n-not angry."

*He smiled and nudged him a bit. Of course, he didn't mean the debilitating parts of it. More... his bluntness. His steadfastness in situations. His dry humor.*

“You think so?” *he thought about it and couldn’t see his anger as a positive reaction except maybe when he was hurting people*

*He giggled, making his previous tears glimmer in the light.*

"Oh, yeah! You show people their place. You make... things less scary, by being the strongest thing in the room."

“Ha you think I’m the strongest thing in the room?” *he laughed more at that*

*He felt all coy, giddy by Roman's laugh.*

"I'd bet my life on it."

*He tucked his head into his shoulders more and got a little softer in his voice.*

*He tilted his head to him, as though still admiring his strength and charisma while listening to the man deny it.*

“You act perfectly. They must be brain dead o-or severely misguided. You’re the best person on the planet.”

*He slow blinked for only a moment, seemingly taking in how nice that statement felt.*

“Even the people you kill. Their last thought should be, ‘wow.’ That was mine, at least.”

“Wow? Hm mostly I think it’s screaming for mercy or whatever there life was like before.”

*That… did make sense…*

“Well, at least they think of you as godly, having to beg to you. That’s closer to the truth.”

*He shrugged, and leaned closer against him, smelling his cologne and feeling the heat of his body.*

“I’ve never seen someone who hurts like you do.”

“Now that’s a compliment.” *His leg jumped and he sighed* “I’ve never seen someone with ideas like you.”

*That made his breath hitch. He didn’t expect Roman to compliment him for anything.*

“N-No? G-Gosh… uh… T-Thank you, Roman.”

*He compulsively tapped at the man, feeling so happy and honored, that his brain felt the need to count to not lose the feeling.*

“Of course it’s the least I can do for you right now…” *He looked at all the memories that Cain had in his arms. Things he could have destroyed from having that outburst*

*The excitement of their discussion nearly had him forget his distress. He followed his gaze to the items, which he was still holding so tightly. He slouched and let the papers be seen in his lap.*

“You two are very special to me. I-… He made me feel so… just… happy. It gave me a reason to live.”

*He felt a need to - poorly - explain, rather than realize Roman was feeling guilty.*

“I’m glad he did. I just I wasn’t thinking when I came in here slamming things over.”

“Oh…”

*He glanced more at the wood splinters they were sitting around.*

“…you’re in my head huh?” *He asked mainly hoping he wasn’t going as soft as he thought he was when it came to this whole situation*

*His eyes widened a bit.*

“N-No- I m-mean… No… Not really. I can only catches glimpses. Trust me, most of this is just me knowing you.”

*He put his hand on the man’s thigh and smiled.*

“It’s an unfair advantage, I’m aware. I know I don’t know you, I just… know your memories. And I… I wish I could be there to help you feel better.”

*He looked into his eyes, able to tell he was thinking about something, though he couldn’t tell what.*

“It’s okay. Really I don’t mind all that much.” *He smiled god he’d reader him a new desk and whatever else he’d need to make this right.”

*He sighed.*

“You push through too much. You’re a sweetheart.”

*His smile made him utterly relaxed, disregarding anything and everything of the day.*

“Can I… give you a full hug? T-To move past this whole thing, for both of us.”

“Sure. To move past this.” *He moved and gently hugged him trying his best not to squeeze too hard or twitch and snap something*

“T-Thank you.”

“…What mask is this, now?”

“It’s a aluminum mask model. It can be modified easily and it’s very cheap but I got it to test out the material.”

*That made him perk up. He giggled.*

“Ah, now we match. I like it. It suits you well.”

“You think so? I liked how chill it feels.” *He tapped it a bit* “it’s a good sound too.”

*He shyly offered. He moved in the hug to catch a glance at Roman’s mask.*

“Maybe. I would like your input I’m sure.” *the mask shined and shifted in the light it was a contrast to his deep dull eyes*

*He gave a big, toothy grin to that.*

"Thank you! I think this could be a fun project- i-if I'm not intruding on your artistic methods, o-of course."

*He darted his eyes around the metal, trying to make guesses to the alloy composition and how it was shaped.*

"It's beautiful..."

“No no you wouldn’t be.” *He nodded jerking his head a bit* “the mask? Yes. Sometimes simple is better.”

"Y-Yes, the mask. Mm, I agree. It leaves a lot more up to interpretation. More room for artistic liberty in the audience... or perhaps your opponent."

*He made note of his jerking, trying to settle himself softer on Roman's body to maybe put him at ease.*

"I'm sorry, am I staring too much?"

“Half my opponent are simple. Nothing to them and no great advantage.” *He shook his head* “no I don’t mind you looking.”

*He softened his expression to his denial.*

"I'm glad. I just... worried I made you nervous... since you twitched."

“Oh. Sometimes my body just twitch’s it’s no big deal. You don’t have to worry about it.” *Nervous. Please as if he’d ever be nervous…*

"Oh, alright. I just... You were twitching a lot when your mask... broke."

“Yeah…yeah my brain was trying to shut itself down. Too much anger and well sadness.”

"I see... You know yourself very well."

*Even though his words were very casual, his expression got very disheartened. He didn't mean to give Roman so much discomfort. And this proved to him that he did feel such emotions.*

"I... didn't think anyone in the warehouse saw you, if that makes you feel better."

“I know that doctors are idiots and my parents were worse.” *He glares a bit at memories before he shook his head* “That’s good though.”

*He stiffened at his resentful hiss.*

"Y-Yeah. T-They were... I wish someone could help you, Roman. I don't want you to hurt like this."

*He didn't seem aware of Li's plans to kidnap that doctor for the man.*

*He tried to hug him again, even if he was in danger of getting hit by his twitches.*

"I-I know... But, I do care. U-Unless it makes you feel worse, if I do. I just... It makes me sad. I know it shouldn't, but I just wish I could... hold you like this, and let you relax."

*He wished he could tell himself to stop making a big deal about this. It was making Roman feel worse about it, he was sure.*

"Y-Yeah? I-I'm g-glad - very glad - it doesn't m-make it worse."

*He sighed, resting his chin on his shoulder.*

"That's a good way to describe it. But I feel like sometimes it's like asthma for you."

“…hm” *His hands slammed to the floor* “asthma.”

*He grimaced at the velocity of the strike, darting his hand to look his over for redness.*

"Y-Yeah. Asthma. It's livable... but a little different or hard for you."

“That does make sense.” *He fixes his suit*

"Yeah? It does? That's good, I imagine, right? N-Not... that it feels that way. Just that... it's an analogy that fits."

*He watched him fidget, still hanging onto him.*

"Are you thinking about it very hard?"

*He made a guess to what his business partner was fixated on.*

“That and the new lipstick, getting a new mask.” *It was a mixed bag up there but his thoughts did move slow from one topic to another*

"Mm, yeah?"

"Would writing it down help?"

*He blinked, confused... surprised... at what he was seeing. He lowered his head with a quiet smile and faint blush and reached for the journal.*

"Let me help you. Where's the next empty page?"

“Yes…uh yes. It should be after five pages.” *He blinked rapidly*

"Wonderful. Thank you."

*His gratitude likely extended subtly to the idea of being sketched, as well. He lightly flipped through the journal for him, landing on the empty page to slide the man's thumb back onto.*

"You have a pen?"

“Yes.” *He moved tapping his suit and gave it to him. It was a nice gel pen*

"Ah, thank you. This is a good pen. I bet it writes smooth... You... want me to write it? Or would you rather do that?"

*He smiled a bit at the fact that he gave it to him, instead of using it.*

“Hm you should write I’m a bit jumpy right now.” *He sighed and moved to sit on his hands a old trick he used we he was little*

“Sure thing, Roman. Take your time.”

*He lifted his knee up to hold the journal to and opened the pen.*

*He watched him sit on his hands. He knew he was likely shy about the gesture, but he was personally happy that Roman knew something that worked for him, even if it came from a place of desperation.*

“O-Oh, wow. Fossilized wood…”

“…that’s an idea. Write it down.” *He nodded which turned into a jerk* “I’m sure Li could get a mask…I had my old mask seller he knew I was good for his best. I know him for a while.”

“Of course. Wilco.”

*He took the command and scribbled that in the growing notes section. He dotted a period and looked back up at Roman, more sympathetically.*

“Yeah? I’m sorry that you don’t have your seller here. That must be quite frustrating to lose.”

“Oh it is. I have to make a whole new profile with this guy it’s painstakingly hard.”

“Gosh. I’m sorry. I wish there was a way to expedite that for you. I’m sure you’re a good enough client that it should figure out.”

*He patted his shoulder.*

“He should figure it out! God half the time his information is wrong can you believe that?! He’s the only asshole that has good suggestions of masks and art and he’s a dumbass!”

“Oh- Jesus… That is awful.”

*He was glad Roman was letting his frustration out here, instead of letting it build, even if it didn’t take away the situation itself.*

“Maybe that lets you pull the wool over him easier on deals?”

“Hm. I do it doesn’t change his prices.”

“Ah, dang it. I just… don’t want this making your blood pressure go up. It’s not worth it.”

*He softly brushed his claw against Roman’s chest, above his heart.*

“Could he be persuaded through… other means?”

*Kilroy meant to suggest perhaps threatening the man.*

*He smiled then laughed loudly and rapidly* “per-Ha-persuade him?” *He continued to laugh* “look I’m open minded to most things but I don’t think that would work.”

*He leaned back to let the booming sound not hurt his ears. He blinked and darted his eyes around Roman, to figure out how awful his suggestion was.*

“N-No? I suppose if he’s that dense, it probably wouldn’t work anyway.”

*Even if Kilroy had said something so silly, maybe it’d taken Roman’s mind off being frustrated.*

*He continued laughing until it turned quiet.* “no I don’t think it would work.” *He let his face drop and relaxed*

“Glad I gave you a good laugh, at least. So… That’s item one on your list. Should I write down the next one?”

*He patted his shoulder and rubbed his arm.*

*His suit was a high quality feel it was tight and smooth* “I think I’ve got it.” *He moved to get back his journal*

“Ah- I’m glad to hear it.”

*He winked and handed him back the pen and journal. The comforting sensation of his luxury suit would always stay in his mind.*

*He moved to write his writing was a bit more messy and as he wrote his hand jerked and scribbled*

*He smiled the whole way through, hoping that maybe that would help him tremor less.*

“You uh… I liked your drawing, b-by the way.”

*He gave a quick glance to him* “…thank you.” *He cleared his throat* “I was half asleep really.”

"Yeah? Even more impressive then... drawing when you're tired."

*Internally, that made him even more giddy to think that Roman thought about him in those quiet moments, alone, and peaceful.*

“Maybe…it mainly my mind being forced to shut down so my body stops moving.”

"Ah, I see."

*He nodded along.*

"...Yet, I'd say you drew me quite perfectly. I hope you didn't have to work through pain to accomplish it."

“No not at all just some sleepiness.” *He fixed at his mask blushing a bit* “you have an easy profile.”

"I'm relieved to hear that-"

*He paused and tilted his head.*

"...Oh?"

“Uh huh. I learned to draw for Janus so I have to say it’s easier profile than most along with the mask.”

"You did? Wow... I'm... Wow. Ha! I'm impressed."

*He was at a loss for words at that fact. He felt down the face of his mask. It was quite a straight line, all things considered.*

"I'm glad I could be simple for your talented hands."

*He nodded he was writing his list of now a container for the new lipstick. His watch beeped a tiny toon* “I’m not that good Kilroy.” *He stopped his watch*

*He chuckled at the modesty.*

"I suppose we'll have to agree to disagree... What's the beeping for?"

*His eyes widened at that.*

"A-Are you sure? That seems important. I-It shouldn't take that long, right? We can finish your notes after..."

*Crap. Maybe that's what would explain his slowing down. Maybe his heart was going too fast.*

“No it’s fine. If I pass out my body will fix itself….” *His hand jerked and a thick line flew across his drawing. He frowned though it was not seen* “fuck.”

"Roman..."

*He hummed with almost an admonishing tone.*

"Do you take medication for it? I can go get it while you keep drawing. I-I can check your pulse..."

*To be honest, he didn't really know how to do that, but he supposed if his heart was racing, he could feel that.*

"I don't mean to embarrass you. I want you to be safe. That matters to me. Let's go to the couch. Are the things you need to check it in the bedroom?"

*He cared so much so, that he temporarily left the items he was trying to rescue from the broken desk on the ground.*

“They’re in the bedroom yes if that will get you to stop being a lap dog Jesus.” *It seemed his guilt about the desk was wearing off too with all the touching and such*

*He let go of him.*

"That is what I'm best at being."

*He would've preferred to walk him to the couch, but maybe if he ran to the bedroom quick enough, he could appease Roman's desire to not be patronized.*

"I'll be back."

*He nodded and moved to the couch and looked to the smashed table sighing*

*Kilroy ran into the bedroom, as fast as he could go, darting around to look for these supplies. He checked his nightstand, assuming it would be there.*

*There was a drawer slightly open it had an arm pressure cuff and a finger pressure sensor* “uh god.” *Roman frowned and huffed*

*He quickly opened the drawer fully to take the things out, and wanted to turn and run, but got stuck in a compulsion of opening and closing the drawer a few times.*

"Come on. Come on."

*He silently cursed himself and finished up as soon as he could, racing back to the lounging area.*

"I-I'm h-here!"

*he was laying back on the couch with his eyes closed* “yes? Okay let’s get this over with.” *He sat up*

*He flinched, worried that getting up too quickly would get him lightheaded, as it did for himself.*

"R-Right. Ok. I suppose I'll just slip this on your arm... and this on your finger, and we let the machine do it's thing, right?"

*He narrated as he fumbled with the cuff and pressure sensor to get it on him.*

“Yep.” *He moved to help him put the cuff onto his own arm* “nothing to worry over I’m sure this will read and it’ll be normal.”

*He nodded as a quiet thank you for the assistance and scooted the cuff up as high as he could get it on his arm. He then clipped the finger sensor on, and sat on the couch next to him.*

"I-I'm sure it will be... Thank you for letting me do it for you."

*He had his doubts, especially if Roman was jinxing it.*

“I knew you wouldn’t have dropped it unless I did what you asked.” *The pressure cuff extends a bit making a simple sound and the finger clip takes its time too*

*He gave a nervous grimace.*

"T-That's true. I wouldn't..."

*His voice caught him out of his spiraling. He blushed.*

"O-Oh. S-Sorry. Sorry..."

*He leaned over to read it too.*

"W-What does that mean? I-Is that g-good? Is it t-too high?"

*He squeaked. He wished he knew more medical information. But the fact that both sensors told the same results made him sure that whatever the answer was, it was accurate.*

“It’s high but that’s just about normal for me…counting the episode I had I say I’m fine. Here get me a sugars free soda and whatever you want to drink.”

"R-Right, yeah. That d-does m-make sense."

*He looked towards the broken table...*

"Roger! I-I'll go get that."

*He bounced up like a rocket and fled over to the fridge to get him the soda. He surprisingly got himself a water and came back over to give it to him.*

"I h-hope this h-helps."

*He sat down next to him and rocked back and forth, trying to slow down and relax. Roman said he was fine. We trust that. We should, at least.*

*He watched him relax. He hardly ever got to see him attempt such a thing. So, it was fascinating to watch... and made him caught off guard by the question.*

"O-Oh-"

*Gosh, it had been such a whirlwind of a day, he nearly forgot about the fiasco with his suit buttons.*

"W-Well, I... It was alright. I woke up later than I'd like to. S-So, I rushed to get ready. I suppose it was just... an anxious day. There's... always a lot going on at home, s-so..."

*He nervously scratched an itch on his arm. He took a deep breath.*

"I came to work as quick as I could. Last night, I did some inventing, though."

*He thought that would interest Roman more than his boring, miserable day.*

“Inventing? Yeah? What did you make?” *His clip went down by one*

*He watched it tick... He was somewhat flattered. He took another deep breath. Relax, Kilroy. It wasn't that bad of a day. You're overreacting. You're still coming down from worrying about him.*

"I'm sorry. I'm ok... I was working on... something for the office."

*He squinted. His memory seemed poor.*

"Oh, I think it was... some sort of better communication device for the staff. Easier than Li having to mumble under his breath so nobody can hear him."

“That’s good.” *he nodded to him as he took off his cuff* “i think Li would like that so when he got angry he doesn’t have to whisper shout.”

"Thank you. Heh, yeah, I'm sure he'd prefer not to hide like that."

*He suddenly remembered the water in his hands and opened it to take a sip, hopefully to remove his remaining anxiety.*

"I thought that maybe it could help things run smoothly around here... but intel only gets you so far. At the end of the day, if nobody knows what to do with it, it's pointless anyway."

*He sighed and leaned back into the couch. He turned his head to Roman.*

"What about your day?"

*He wrung his hands around his water bottle as he listened. He smirked.*

“C-Certainly a more productive morning than m-mine! It uh… sounds peaceful. T-Thank you for being here, taking care of things before I show up late everyday.”

“Of course. I mean I’m a door away from work so I don’t really have an excuse to be late.” *He chuckled a bit his heart rate had dropped slightly to a more normal level*

*He smiled more broadly. He liked seeing the man in a good mood… Especially after he’d pestered him so much today.*

“F-Fair point! You seem to have a good schedule. It sounds like it fits you nicely… Good, straightforward routine… Even got a little time to workout. That’s really great, Roman.”

*He took a breath.*

“I must be a cannonball in your day. All over the goddamn place. I’m sorry for making things so complicated.”

“Hm actually no. You have some good ideas different ways of thinking it’s good for business.”

“Y-Yeah? I p-promise I’m not fishing for compliments or anything… I just don’t ever want to get in your way.”

*He was relieved to hear that Roman didn’t think that way about him… Now, just to remove that feeling. He reached out to tap at Roman’s soda.*

“T-Thank you for being so patient with me.”

*He nodded* “it’s not that hard. I have to deal with people who test my patience every day.”

*He gave a weak smirk, more bittersweet than anything.*

“R-Right. You’re very resilient to deal with that all the time. I… have a question. Would you mind if I asked it? Does… Li make you feel better when you’re angry?”

*He looked to him* “I’d say so…I mean he knows what to do. He’s got ways to stop my episodes and all that crap.”

“Oh yeah? T-That’s great, obviously. You two have known each other for a while.”

*the mask left much to the imagination with only his eyes and part of his lips showing* “we have yes. He’s a good man and a better assistant.”

*Yet it was just enough to keep Kilroy calm and hopefully to bite his tongue on being more of a crybaby.*

“At least… he’s something you still have here, right?”

*He tried to say something optimistic, considering how much Roman had lost.*

“He is yes. Honestly I don’t know what I would do without his support…don’t tell him that he has a big enough ego.”

*He gave a hearty cackle.*

“Really? I don’t know I think you can be a good boss.” *his arm flew up and he frowned taking it down*

“Yeah? Thank you, Roman.”

“Maybe I’m just paranoid. Maybe Li doesn’t think so. I just… I don’t like the way he looks at me when I’m a mess.”

*He shook his head.*

“It shouldn’t matter. He fixed my buttons. He didn’t have to do that.”

“Emotional things aren’t his thing really. I mean if he can solve the problem quickly he doesn’t have patience for it.” *He smiled a bit* “see? If he can fix it he’ll do what he can.”

*He looked down and fidgeted with the new button.*

“You’re right. I should be kinder to him. I wish I didn’t put my baggage on him. I’m sure he could use me appreciating his work more. I should apologize to him.”

“Maybe you should.” *He shrugs longer than necessary before he groans and punches his shoulder*

“H-Hey… Hey.”

*He quickly brought his hands to Roman’s shoulder.*

“…”

*He wanted to tell him a reason not to do that, but he knew like himself, Roman liked pain. So, it was hard to tell him not to, even if he didn’t do it for pleasure.*

“It’s just to stop it don’t worry.” *his shoulders did stop moving* “see?”

“Mask!” *his eyes squeezed closed and he put a hand over his mouth trying to calm himself down*

@mr-david-li

You’re doing great, sir. V-Very good. Just hang on, Roman.

It felt agonizingly long, but eventually, the elevator dinged, and the doors opened.

Li ran ahead to open the double doors for the man.

We’re here. Let’s go. Let it out in here.

Li focused his attention on the mask, examining the fracture in it and how it could be repaired. He knew regardless it would never be the same level of antiquity.

He looked up. Kilroy would be very sad about his desk. That thing meant so much to him. Where was Kilroy? Gosh, they left him behind, didn’t they?

He approached the scene, keeping a wide distance from Roman, until he was in his line of sight.

Be careful of the splinters, sir.

Li didn’t fear being hit, and didn’t recoil at the sight of his raised fists, even if he should have.

I know this is very hard for you, sir. None of us wanted this, or could have predicted it.

…Do you need something else to break?

I’ll find a replacement for the desk…

Why don’t you take a seat on the couch?

Is there anything besides something else to break that I can get you? Any pain anywhere? I can get a drink or an ice pack.

He walked past him to the lounging area, knowing that he could be hit if he came closer.

Thank you.

He acknowledged as he sat down. He sighed and walked towards the door to get what he asked for, when he paused.

You think so?

He obviously agreed, but he didn’t expect Roman to think of it so soon. He took off his glasses to rub his eyes. He couldn’t be in two places at once.

I can page him to see if he’ll come back upstairs… If he doesn’t… Well, that’s not something you should worry about, sir. I will handle it.

He said, very unconvincingly.

*He closed his eyes it felt like his heart was slowing down* “yes. I-I’m sorry just stupid I didn’t mean to get so upset.” *Ig just bubbles over* “hm.”

I understand, sir. It’s not your fault at all. You had every reason to be upset.

You stay there. I’ll get your coffee… a-and put this down.

He lifted the mask to emphasis it.

Of course, sir. It is my honor.

He stepped outside, and the sound of his dress shoes echoed down the hall.

Li sighed.

He’s not answering…

He mumbled to himself.

Li put his pager away, seeing that it was not working to get Kilroy back. He decided to focus on the coffee. He went to the machine in his office and started dispensing the coffee into a mug.

He looked at the mask, setting the two halves on his desk. In all these years, Roman never had broken a mask.

…Roman’s phone buzzed with a call.

*He sighed but growled and picked up the phone from his pocket* “Roman speaking. What ya want?”

"R-Roman?"

*Kilroy sniffled from the other end.*

"I-I'm s-so sorry. I d-didn't know it would d-do that. I w-would n-never want to b-break your m-mask. I-I'm so sorry. Y-You must f-feel awful."

“Kilroy…look it’s fine.” *He groans* “It was not the rarest mask I…I am upset to have it broken but I don’t blame you.” *He rubbed his head and closed his eyes*

"I-I know h-how m-much it m-means t-to you. C-Can I find you a n-new one? Piece it b-back together?"

*He knew he was bothering him. He should have just left the office, maybe go to a bar. That would be escaping responsibility, though.*

“Kilroy no it’s okay. It’s a wood fossil mask they make the them custom I have a guy.” *He gagged a bit his head throbbed to much*

"Y-You have a g-guy- W-What was that? Are you ok? Are you sick? Are you throwing up?!"

*Kilroy seemed to panic at that.*

“My head just hurts…” *He sighed* “I got really angry. My head is throbbing.”

"O-Oh. I s-see."

*His voice was a little louder, suggesting that he got closer to the microphone as he gripped the phone tighter.*

"I t-thought you would be. That's ok. You really should be angry. I'm sorry about your head though. C-Can I help?"

“I would be if I could. You’ll probably be mad at me l slammed your desk and broke the table…”

*He was quiet for a while.*

"...My desk?"

*There were some sounds of fabric rubbing against itself as Kilroy readjusted.*

"W-What... What about all the things inside it?"

“I don’t know.” *He waited for a reaction though he felt like he was going to pass out his leg kicked in the couch and he huffed*

"O-Ok. I'll... I'll c-come up and see."

"I d-don't want Li to talk to me, though."

“Can he at least come in to give me pain pills?” *He mumbled to Kilroy if he wasn’t in so much pain he’d wonder why and maybe defend li talking with him*

"O-Of course... Of course, Roman."

*He was relieved to hear that he would take medicine like that, and not just tough it out. As such, his response was more toned about that, rather than about letting Li in.*

"I... um... I h-hope it helps."

*He nodded not that Kilroy could see it*

"A-Alright, I'll um... get up there. Stay there. A-And I can stay on the p-phone in c-case something happens, if y-you'd like, o-or... or w-whatever you need."

*There were the sounds of him rustling out from under the table. At that time, there was the soft knock of Li back on the double doors, to signal his entrance back with the supplies.*

“Come in if you have pill.” *He groaned this was just about the worst episode he had in a while*

Li stepped in with a tray, which he planned to put on the coffee table, but then realized.

Ah...

He set it on the cushions of another couch and came over to Roman with the pain relievers in one hand and the coffee mug in his other.

Here you are, sir.

*He moved putting the pill in his mouth chewing* “thank you Li and Kilroy doesn’t want to talk to you. I can talk to him if he’s not upset about his desk.” *He slowly sat up and took the mug*

The man paused and furrowed his brow. He didn't realize why Kilroy would seemingly be upset at him.

Oh... Alright.

He shook the confusion off and readjusted his glasses.

Is the coffee to your liking? Would you care for sugar or cream?

“No no I just need something to put my head back on.” *He gulp half the mug then sighed* “great.”

He nodded and gave a small smile to see him taking care of himself, even if in an extreme manner.

You talked to Kilroy then, I realize?

“I mumbled some things to Kilroy. Really I just told him about the desk and listened to him.”

Hm... That's good, of course, since I couldn't go down to see him. I assume he's coming up then?... And he doesn't want me here.

Let me make sure you're all set before I can leave you alone. I don't want you in any sort of danger.

“I’m not in danger what you think he’s going to go off the handle and stab me?” *He thought for a moment* “He may stab me you should have a med kit on hand.”

He's not going to stab you... But, I'll bring a kit in case he hurts himself. I'll be right outside, ok? I... could keep him away, if you'd rather just rest.

He held his hands out, first to make sure Roman wasn't hurt and going to fall over. Perhaps he'd gotten too used to Kilroy's fragility.

He took the card, looking it over, before tucking it in his suit. He nodded.

Will do, sir. I shall see you later then. I'll work on the mask.

He gestured for him to head out the door.

*He nodded and moved to his room to get another mask he couldn’t help noticing how valuable he was without it*

*Li left as Roman went to get ready. It was a while later before the hinges of the double doors creaked again, supposedly as Kilroy was coming in.*

*He was still looking through his chest looking through all of them one of his masks breaking made him very…uncomfortable?*

*He looked over them picking a metal mask he had gotten it as a working project to see which metal would be best for his face he clicked it on and stood coming out*

“…” *He moved and sat by him* “I’m sorry.” *He huffed* “look I can get you a desk that looks exactly like this one. I shouldn’t have taken my anger out on your things.”

*He moved hugging him to the side* “of course. We should get you a safe for all of your…Roman stuff.”

"I-I hadn't thought of that. I want to do that."

*He croaked out, his voice sounding hoarse now. He said it as a statement, but really he was asking the man, like as if he wasn't allowed to have or to want that unless he said so.*

“Really? Yes. We can do that heavy duty stuff…something I can’t break.” *His hand twitched and rubbed Kilroys arm* “I am still so sorry.”

*Kilroy certainly liked the physical affirmation.*

"I know you are. It's n-not your fault. It's mine. With my stupid gun."

*He planned now to scrap it after this. He didn't care if it worked. He wanted it gone. He huffed, exhaling his irrationality.*

"I'm really sorry about your m-mask."

*He reached up with his looser arm in the hug to touch Roman's hand that had twitched.*

“No it’s okay I get to have another one. It was wood basically nothing to go.” *He let him touch not minding much* “the gun was cool.”

"Y-Yeah? I just... I've n-never hurt one of R-Roman's masks b-before. I-It's one of the w-worst things I c-could do. I already l-let h-him d-die on m-me. N-Now this? I s-shouldn't b-be here."

*His voice pitched, and his skin felt hot to himself, getting pink in the heat of the emotion.*

"I'll have it dismantled."

*He treated his machines like dogs. If they bit someone, they got put down.*

"T-Thank you, f-for giving me another c-chance. I k-know I k-keep messing up. That's... why I didn't want Li to come in here. He doesn't like when I cry."

*He took a deep breath.*

"I guess I invest my emotions in things t-too much. But, I get very sad, n-not angry."

*He smiled and nudged him a bit. Of course, he didn't mean the debilitating parts of it. More... his bluntness. His steadfastness in situations. His dry humor.*

“You think so?” *he thought about it and couldn’t see his anger as a positive reaction except maybe when he was hurting people*

*He giggled, making his previous tears glimmer in the light.*

"Oh, yeah! You show people their place. You make... things less scary, by being the strongest thing in the room."

“Ha you think I’m the strongest thing in the room?” *he laughed more at that*

*He felt all coy, giddy by Roman's laugh.*

"I'd bet my life on it."

*He tucked his head into his shoulders more and got a little softer in his voice.*

*He tilted his head to him, as though still admiring his strength and charisma while listening to the man deny it.*

“You act perfectly. They must be brain dead o-or severely misguided. You’re the best person on the planet.”

*He slow blinked for only a moment, seemingly taking in how nice that statement felt.*

“Even the people you kill. Their last thought should be, ‘wow.’ That was mine, at least.”

“Wow? Hm mostly I think it’s screaming for mercy or whatever there life was like before.”

*That… did make sense…*

“Well, at least they think of you as godly, having to beg to you. That’s closer to the truth.”

*He shrugged, and leaned closer against him, smelling his cologne and feeling the heat of his body.*

“I’ve never seen someone who hurts like you do.”

“Now that’s a compliment.” *His leg jumped and he sighed* “I’ve never seen someone with ideas like you.”

*That made his breath hitch. He didn’t expect Roman to compliment him for anything.*

“N-No? G-Gosh… uh… T-Thank you, Roman.”

*He compulsively tapped at the man, feeling so happy and honored, that his brain felt the need to count to not lose the feeling.*

“Of course it’s the least I can do for you right now…” *He looked at all the memories that Cain had in his arms. Things he could have destroyed from having that outburst*

*The excitement of their discussion nearly had him forget his distress. He followed his gaze to the items, which he was still holding so tightly. He slouched and let the papers be seen in his lap.*

“You two are very special to me. I-… He made me feel so… just… happy. It gave me a reason to live.”

*He felt a need to - poorly - explain, rather than realize Roman was feeling guilty.*

“I’m glad he did. I just I wasn’t thinking when I came in here slamming things over.”

“Oh…”

*He glanced more at the wood splinters they were sitting around.*

“…you’re in my head huh?” *He asked mainly hoping he wasn’t going as soft as he thought he was when it came to this whole situation*

*His eyes widened a bit.*

“N-No- I m-mean… No… Not really. I can only catches glimpses. Trust me, most of this is just me knowing you.”

*He put his hand on the man’s thigh and smiled.*

“It’s an unfair advantage, I’m aware. I know I don’t know you, I just… know your memories. And I… I wish I could be there to help you feel better.”

*He looked into his eyes, able to tell he was thinking about something, though he couldn’t tell what.*

“It’s okay. Really I don’t mind all that much.” *He smiled god he’d reader him a new desk and whatever else he’d need to make this right.”

*He sighed.*

“You push through too much. You’re a sweetheart.”

*His smile made him utterly relaxed, disregarding anything and everything of the day.*

“Can I… give you a full hug? T-To move past this whole thing, for both of us.”

“Sure. To move past this.” *He moved and gently hugged him trying his best not to squeeze too hard or twitch and snap something*

“T-Thank you.”

“…What mask is this, now?”

“It’s a aluminum mask model. It can be modified easily and it’s very cheap but I got it to test out the material.”

*That made him perk up. He giggled.*

“Ah, now we match. I like it. It suits you well.”

“You think so? I liked how chill it feels.” *He tapped it a bit* “it’s a good sound too.”

*He shyly offered. He moved in the hug to catch a glance at Roman’s mask.*

“Maybe. I would like your input I’m sure.” *the mask shined and shifted in the light it was a contrast to his deep dull eyes*

*He gave a big, toothy grin to that.*

"Thank you! I think this could be a fun project- i-if I'm not intruding on your artistic methods, o-of course."

*He darted his eyes around the metal, trying to make guesses to the alloy composition and how it was shaped.*

"It's beautiful..."

“No no you wouldn’t be.” *He nodded jerking his head a bit* “the mask? Yes. Sometimes simple is better.”

"Y-Yes, the mask. Mm, I agree. It leaves a lot more up to interpretation. More room for artistic liberty in the audience... or perhaps your opponent."

*He made note of his jerking, trying to settle himself softer on Roman's body to maybe put him at ease.*

"I'm sorry, am I staring too much?"

“Half my opponent are simple. Nothing to them and no great advantage.” *He shook his head* “no I don’t mind you looking.”

*He softened his expression to his denial.*

"I'm glad. I just... worried I made you nervous... since you twitched."

“Oh. Sometimes my body just twitch’s it’s no big deal. You don’t have to worry about it.” *Nervous. Please as if he’d ever be nervous…*

"Oh, alright. I just... You were twitching a lot when your mask... broke."

“Yeah…yeah my brain was trying to shut itself down. Too much anger and well sadness.”

"I see... You know yourself very well."

*Even though his words were very casual, his expression got very disheartened. He didn't mean to give Roman so much discomfort. And this proved to him that he did feel such emotions.*

"I... didn't think anyone in the warehouse saw you, if that makes you feel better."

“I know that doctors are idiots and my parents were worse.” *He glares a bit at memories before he shook his head* “That’s good though.”

*He stiffened at his resentful hiss.*

"Y-Yeah. T-They were... I wish someone could help you, Roman. I don't want you to hurt like this."

*He didn't seem aware of Li's plans to kidnap that doctor for the man.*

*He tried to hug him again, even if he was in danger of getting hit by his twitches.*

"I-I know... But, I do care. U-Unless it makes you feel worse, if I do. I just... It makes me sad. I know it shouldn't, but I just wish I could... hold you like this, and let you relax."

*He wished he could tell himself to stop making a big deal about this. It was making Roman feel worse about it, he was sure.*

"Y-Yeah? I-I'm g-glad - very glad - it doesn't m-make it worse."

*He sighed, resting his chin on his shoulder.*

"That's a good way to describe it. But I feel like sometimes it's like asthma for you."

“…hm” *His hands slammed to the floor* “asthma.”

*He grimaced at the velocity of the strike, darting his hand to look his over for redness.*

"Y-Yeah. Asthma. It's livable... but a little different or hard for you."

“That does make sense.” *He fixes his suit*

"Yeah? It does? That's good, I imagine, right? N-Not... that it feels that way. Just that... it's an analogy that fits."

*He watched him fidget, still hanging onto him.*

"Are you thinking about it very hard?"

*He made a guess to what his business partner was fixated on.*

“That and the new lipstick, getting a new mask.” *It was a mixed bag up there but his thoughts did move slow from one topic to another*

"Mm, yeah?"

"Would writing it down help?"

*He blinked, confused... surprised... at what he was seeing. He lowered his head with a quiet smile and faint blush and reached for the journal.*

"Let me help you. Where's the next empty page?"

“Yes…uh yes. It should be after five pages.” *He blinked rapidly*

"Wonderful. Thank you."

*His gratitude likely extended subtly to the idea of being sketched, as well. He lightly flipped through the journal for him, landing on the empty page to slide the man's thumb back onto.*

"You have a pen?"

“Yes.” *He moved tapping his suit and gave it to him. It was a nice gel pen*

"Ah, thank you. This is a good pen. I bet it writes smooth... You... want me to write it? Or would you rather do that?"

*He smiled a bit at the fact that he gave it to him, instead of using it.*

“Hm you should write I’m a bit jumpy right now.” *He sighed and moved to sit on his hands a old trick he used we he was little*

“Sure thing, Roman. Take your time.”

*He lifted his knee up to hold the journal to and opened the pen.*

*He watched him sit on his hands. He knew he was likely shy about the gesture, but he was personally happy that Roman knew something that worked for him, even if it came from a place of desperation.*

“O-Oh, wow. Fossilized wood…”

“…that’s an idea. Write it down.” *He nodded which turned into a jerk* “I’m sure Li could get a mask…I had my old mask seller he knew I was good for his best. I know him for a while.”

“Of course. Wilco.”

*He took the command and scribbled that in the growing notes section. He dotted a period and looked back up at Roman, more sympathetically.*

“Yeah? I’m sorry that you don’t have your seller here. That must be quite frustrating to lose.”

“Oh it is. I have to make a whole new profile with this guy it’s painstakingly hard.”

“Gosh. I’m sorry. I wish there was a way to expedite that for you. I’m sure you’re a good enough client that it should figure out.”

*He patted his shoulder.*

“He should figure it out! God half the time his information is wrong can you believe that?! He’s the only asshole that has good suggestions of masks and art and he’s a dumbass!”

“Oh- Jesus… That is awful.”

*He was glad Roman was letting his frustration out here, instead of letting it build, even if it didn’t take away the situation itself.*

“Maybe that lets you pull the wool over him easier on deals?”

“Hm. I do it doesn’t change his prices.”

“Ah, dang it. I just… don’t want this making your blood pressure go up. It’s not worth it.”

*He softly brushed his claw against Roman’s chest, above his heart.*

“Could he be persuaded through… other means?”

*Kilroy meant to suggest perhaps threatening the man.*

*He smiled then laughed loudly and rapidly* “per-Ha-persuade him?” *He continued to laugh* “look I’m open minded to most things but I don’t think that would work.”

*He leaned back to let the booming sound not hurt his ears. He blinked and darted his eyes around Roman, to figure out how awful his suggestion was.*

“N-No? I suppose if he’s that dense, it probably wouldn’t work anyway.”

*Even if Kilroy had said something so silly, maybe it’d taken Roman’s mind off being frustrated.*

*He continued laughing until it turned quiet.* “no I don’t think it would work.” *He let his face drop and relaxed*

“Glad I gave you a good laugh, at least. So… That’s item one on your list. Should I write down the next one?”

*He patted his shoulder and rubbed his arm.*

*His suit was a high quality feel it was tight and smooth* “I think I’ve got it.” *He moved to get back his journal*

“Ah- I’m glad to hear it.”

*He winked and handed him back the pen and journal. The comforting sensation of his luxury suit would always stay in his mind.*

*He moved to write his writing was a bit more messy and as he wrote his hand jerked and scribbled*

*He smiled the whole way through, hoping that maybe that would help him tremor less.*

“You uh… I liked your drawing, b-by the way.”

*He gave a quick glance to him* “…thank you.” *He cleared his throat* “I was half asleep really.”

"Yeah? Even more impressive then... drawing when you're tired."

*Internally, that made him even more giddy to think that Roman thought about him in those quiet moments, alone, and peaceful.*

“Maybe…it mainly my mind being forced to shut down so my body stops moving.”

"Ah, I see."

*He nodded along.*

"...Yet, I'd say you drew me quite perfectly. I hope you didn't have to work through pain to accomplish it."

“No not at all just some sleepiness.” *He fixed at his mask blushing a bit* “you have an easy profile.”

"I'm relieved to hear that-"

*He paused and tilted his head.*

"...Oh?"

“Uh huh. I learned to draw for Janus so I have to say it’s easier profile than most along with the mask.”

"You did? Wow... I'm... Wow. Ha! I'm impressed."

*He was at a loss for words at that fact. He felt down the face of his mask. It was quite a straight line, all things considered.*

"I'm glad I could be simple for your talented hands."

*He nodded he was writing his list of now a container for the new lipstick. His watch beeped a tiny toon* “I’m not that good Kilroy.” *He stopped his watch*

*He chuckled at the modesty.*

"I suppose we'll have to agree to disagree... What's the beeping for?"

*His eyes widened at that.*

"A-Are you sure? That seems important. I-It shouldn't take that long, right? We can finish your notes after..."

*Crap. Maybe that's what would explain his slowing down. Maybe his heart was going too fast.*

“No it’s fine. If I pass out my body will fix itself….” *His hand jerked and a thick line flew across his drawing. He frowned though it was not seen* “fuck.”

"Roman..."

*He hummed with almost an admonishing tone.*

"Do you take medication for it? I can go get it while you keep drawing. I-I can check your pulse..."

*To be honest, he didn't really know how to do that, but he supposed if his heart was racing, he could feel that.*

"I don't mean to embarrass you. I want you to be safe. That matters to me. Let's go to the couch. Are the things you need to check it in the bedroom?"

*He cared so much so, that he temporarily left the items he was trying to rescue from the broken desk on the ground.*

“They’re in the bedroom yes if that will get you to stop being a lap dog Jesus.” *It seemed his guilt about the desk was wearing off too with all the touching and such*

*He let go of him.*

"That is what I'm best at being."

*He would've preferred to walk him to the couch, but maybe if he ran to the bedroom quick enough, he could appease Roman's desire to not be patronized.*

"I'll be back."

*He nodded and moved to the couch and looked to the smashed table sighing*

*Kilroy ran into the bedroom, as fast as he could go, darting around to look for these supplies. He checked his nightstand, assuming it would be there.*

*There was a drawer slightly open it had an arm pressure cuff and a finger pressure sensor* “uh god.” *Roman frowned and huffed*

*He quickly opened the drawer fully to take the things out, and wanted to turn and run, but got stuck in a compulsion of opening and closing the drawer a few times.*

"Come on. Come on."

*He silently cursed himself and finished up as soon as he could, racing back to the lounging area.*

"I-I'm h-here!"

*he was laying back on the couch with his eyes closed* “yes? Okay let’s get this over with.” *He sat up*

*He flinched, worried that getting up too quickly would get him lightheaded, as it did for himself.*

"R-Right. Ok. I suppose I'll just slip this on your arm... and this on your finger, and we let the machine do it's thing, right?"

*He narrated as he fumbled with the cuff and pressure sensor to get it on him.*

“Yep.” *He moved to help him put the cuff onto his own arm* “nothing to worry over I’m sure this will read and it’ll be normal.”

*He nodded as a quiet thank you for the assistance and scooted the cuff up as high as he could get it on his arm. He then clipped the finger sensor on, and sat on the couch next to him.*

"I-I'm sure it will be... Thank you for letting me do it for you."

*He had his doubts, especially if Roman was jinxing it.*

“I knew you wouldn’t have dropped it unless I did what you asked.” *The pressure cuff extends a bit making a simple sound and the finger clip takes its time too*

*He gave a nervous grimace.*

"T-That's true. I wouldn't..."

*His voice caught him out of his spiraling. He blushed.*

"O-Oh. S-Sorry. Sorry..."

*He leaned over to read it too.*

"W-What does that mean? I-Is that g-good? Is it t-too high?"

*He squeaked. He wished he knew more medical information. But the fact that both sensors told the same results made him sure that whatever the answer was, it was accurate.*

“It’s high but that’s just about normal for me…counting the episode I had I say I’m fine. Here get me a sugars free soda and whatever you want to drink.”

"R-Right, yeah. That d-does m-make sense."

*He looked towards the broken table...*

"Roger! I-I'll go get that."

*He bounced up like a rocket and fled over to the fridge to get him the soda. He surprisingly got himself a water and came back over to give it to him.*

"I h-hope this h-helps."

*He sat down next to him and rocked back and forth, trying to slow down and relax. Roman said he was fine. We trust that. We should, at least.*

*He watched him relax. He hardly ever got to see him attempt such a thing. So, it was fascinating to watch... and made him caught off guard by the question.*

"O-Oh-"

*Gosh, it had been such a whirlwind of a day, he nearly forgot about the fiasco with his suit buttons.*

"W-Well, I... It was alright. I woke up later than I'd like to. S-So, I rushed to get ready. I suppose it was just... an anxious day. There's... always a lot going on at home, s-so..."

*He nervously scratched an itch on his arm. He took a deep breath.*

"I came to work as quick as I could. Last night, I did some inventing, though."

*He thought that would interest Roman more than his boring, miserable day.*

“Inventing? Yeah? What did you make?” *His clip went down by one*

*He watched it tick... He was somewhat flattered. He took another deep breath. Relax, Kilroy. It wasn't that bad of a day. You're overreacting. You're still coming down from worrying about him.*

"I'm sorry. I'm ok... I was working on... something for the office."

*He squinted. His memory seemed poor.*

"Oh, I think it was... some sort of better communication device for the staff. Easier than Li having to mumble under his breath so nobody can hear him."

“That’s good.” *he nodded to him as he took off his cuff* “i think Li would like that so when he got angry he doesn’t have to whisper shout.”

"Thank you. Heh, yeah, I'm sure he'd prefer not to hide like that."

*He suddenly remembered the water in his hands and opened it to take a sip, hopefully to remove his remaining anxiety.*

"I thought that maybe it could help things run smoothly around here... but intel only gets you so far. At the end of the day, if nobody knows what to do with it, it's pointless anyway."

*He sighed and leaned back into the couch. He turned his head to Roman.*

"What about your day?"

*He wrung his hands around his water bottle as he listened. He smirked.*

“C-Certainly a more productive morning than m-mine! It uh… sounds peaceful. T-Thank you for being here, taking care of things before I show up late everyday.”

“Of course. I mean I’m a door away from work so I don’t really have an excuse to be late.” *He chuckled a bit his heart rate had dropped slightly to a more normal level*

*He smiled more broadly. He liked seeing the man in a good mood… Especially after he’d pestered him so much today.*

“F-Fair point! You seem to have a good schedule. It sounds like it fits you nicely… Good, straightforward routine… Even got a little time to workout. That’s really great, Roman.”

*He took a breath.*

“I must be a cannonball in your day. All over the goddamn place. I’m sorry for making things so complicated.”

“Hm actually no. You have some good ideas different ways of thinking it’s good for business.”

“Y-Yeah? I p-promise I’m not fishing for compliments or anything… I just don’t ever want to get in your way.”

*He was relieved to hear that Roman didn’t think that way about him… Now, just to remove that feeling. He reached out to tap at Roman’s soda.*

“T-Thank you for being so patient with me.”

*He nodded* “it’s not that hard. I have to deal with people who test my patience every day.”

*He gave a weak smirk, more bittersweet than anything.*

“R-Right. You’re very resilient to deal with that all the time. I… have a question. Would you mind if I asked it? Does… Li make you feel better when you’re angry?”

*He looked to him* “I’d say so…I mean he knows what to do. He’s got ways to stop my episodes and all that crap.”

“Oh yeah? T-That’s great, obviously. You two have known each other for a while.”

*the mask left much to the imagination with only his eyes and part of his lips showing* “we have yes. He’s a good man and a better assistant.”

*Yet it was just enough to keep Kilroy calm and hopefully to bite his tongue on being more of a crybaby.*

“At least… he’s something you still have here, right?”

*He tried to say something optimistic, considering how much Roman had lost.*

“He is yes. Honestly I don’t know what I would do without his support…don’t tell him that he has a big enough ego.”

*He gave a hearty cackle.*

“Really? I don’t know I think you can be a good boss.” *his arm flew up and he frowned taking it down*

“Yeah? Thank you, Roman.”

“Maybe I’m just paranoid. Maybe Li doesn’t think so. I just… I don’t like the way he looks at me when I’m a mess.”

*He shook his head.*

“It shouldn’t matter. He fixed my buttons. He didn’t have to do that.”

“Emotional things aren’t his thing really. I mean if he can solve the problem quickly he doesn’t have patience for it.” *He smiled a bit* “see? If he can fix it he’ll do what he can.”

*He looked down and fidgeted with the new button.*

“You’re right. I should be kinder to him. I wish I didn’t put my baggage on him. I’m sure he could use me appreciating his work more. I should apologize to him.”

“Maybe you should.” *He shrugs longer than necessary before he groans and punches his shoulder*

“Mask!” *his eyes squeezed closed and he put a hand over his mouth trying to calm himself down*

@mr-david-li

You’re doing great, sir. V-Very good. Just hang on, Roman.

It felt agonizingly long, but eventually, the elevator dinged, and the doors opened.

Li ran ahead to open the double doors for the man.

We’re here. Let’s go. Let it out in here.

Li focused his attention on the mask, examining the fracture in it and how it could be repaired. He knew regardless it would never be the same level of antiquity.

He looked up. Kilroy would be very sad about his desk. That thing meant so much to him. Where was Kilroy? Gosh, they left him behind, didn’t they?

He approached the scene, keeping a wide distance from Roman, until he was in his line of sight.

Be careful of the splinters, sir.

Li didn’t fear being hit, and didn’t recoil at the sight of his raised fists, even if he should have.

I know this is very hard for you, sir. None of us wanted this, or could have predicted it.

…Do you need something else to break?

I’ll find a replacement for the desk…

Why don’t you take a seat on the couch?

Is there anything besides something else to break that I can get you? Any pain anywhere? I can get a drink or an ice pack.

He walked past him to the lounging area, knowing that he could be hit if he came closer.

Thank you.

He acknowledged as he sat down. He sighed and walked towards the door to get what he asked for, when he paused.

You think so?

He obviously agreed, but he didn’t expect Roman to think of it so soon. He took off his glasses to rub his eyes. He couldn’t be in two places at once.

I can page him to see if he’ll come back upstairs… If he doesn’t… Well, that’s not something you should worry about, sir. I will handle it.

He said, very unconvincingly.

*He closed his eyes it felt like his heart was slowing down* “yes. I-I’m sorry just stupid I didn’t mean to get so upset.” *Ig just bubbles over* “hm.”

I understand, sir. It’s not your fault at all. You had every reason to be upset.

You stay there. I’ll get your coffee… a-and put this down.

He lifted the mask to emphasis it.

Of course, sir. It is my honor.

He stepped outside, and the sound of his dress shoes echoed down the hall.

Li sighed.

He’s not answering…

He mumbled to himself.

Li put his pager away, seeing that it was not working to get Kilroy back. He decided to focus on the coffee. He went to the machine in his office and started dispensing the coffee into a mug.

He looked at the mask, setting the two halves on his desk. In all these years, Roman never had broken a mask.

…Roman’s phone buzzed with a call.

*He sighed but growled and picked up the phone from his pocket* “Roman speaking. What ya want?”

"R-Roman?"

*Kilroy sniffled from the other end.*

"I-I'm s-so sorry. I d-didn't know it would d-do that. I w-would n-never want to b-break your m-mask. I-I'm so sorry. Y-You must f-feel awful."

“Kilroy…look it’s fine.” *He groans* “It was not the rarest mask I…I am upset to have it broken but I don’t blame you.” *He rubbed his head and closed his eyes*

"I-I know h-how m-much it m-means t-to you. C-Can I find you a n-new one? Piece it b-back together?"

*He knew he was bothering him. He should have just left the office, maybe go to a bar. That would be escaping responsibility, though.*

“Kilroy no it’s okay. It’s a wood fossil mask they make the them custom I have a guy.” *He gagged a bit his head throbbed to much*

"Y-You have a g-guy- W-What was that? Are you ok? Are you sick? Are you throwing up?!"

*Kilroy seemed to panic at that.*

“My head just hurts…” *He sighed* “I got really angry. My head is throbbing.”

"O-Oh. I s-see."

*His voice was a little louder, suggesting that he got closer to the microphone as he gripped the phone tighter.*

"I t-thought you would be. That's ok. You really should be angry. I'm sorry about your head though. C-Can I help?"

“I would be if I could. You’ll probably be mad at me l slammed your desk and broke the table…”

*He was quiet for a while.*

"...My desk?"

*There were some sounds of fabric rubbing against itself as Kilroy readjusted.*

"W-What... What about all the things inside it?"

“I don’t know.” *He waited for a reaction though he felt like he was going to pass out his leg kicked in the couch and he huffed*

"O-Ok. I'll... I'll c-come up and see."

"I d-don't want Li to talk to me, though."

“Can he at least come in to give me pain pills?” *He mumbled to Kilroy if he wasn’t in so much pain he’d wonder why and maybe defend li talking with him*

"O-Of course... Of course, Roman."

*He was relieved to hear that he would take medicine like that, and not just tough it out. As such, his response was more toned about that, rather than about letting Li in.*

"I... um... I h-hope it helps."

*He nodded not that Kilroy could see it*

"A-Alright, I'll um... get up there. Stay there. A-And I can stay on the p-phone in c-case something happens, if y-you'd like, o-or... or w-whatever you need."

*There were the sounds of him rustling out from under the table. At that time, there was the soft knock of Li back on the double doors, to signal his entrance back with the supplies.*

“Come in if you have pill.” *He groaned this was just about the worst episode he had in a while*

Li stepped in with a tray, which he planned to put on the coffee table, but then realized.

Ah...

He set it on the cushions of another couch and came over to Roman with the pain relievers in one hand and the coffee mug in his other.

Here you are, sir.

*He moved putting the pill in his mouth chewing* “thank you Li and Kilroy doesn’t want to talk to you. I can talk to him if he’s not upset about his desk.” *He slowly sat up and took the mug*

The man paused and furrowed his brow. He didn't realize why Kilroy would seemingly be upset at him.

Oh... Alright.

He shook the confusion off and readjusted his glasses.

Is the coffee to your liking? Would you care for sugar or cream?

“No no I just need something to put my head back on.” *He gulp half the mug then sighed* “great.”

He nodded and gave a small smile to see him taking care of himself, even if in an extreme manner.

You talked to Kilroy then, I realize?

“I mumbled some things to Kilroy. Really I just told him about the desk and listened to him.”

Hm... That's good, of course, since I couldn't go down to see him. I assume he's coming up then?... And he doesn't want me here.

Let me make sure you're all set before I can leave you alone. I don't want you in any sort of danger.

“I’m not in danger what you think he’s going to go off the handle and stab me?” *He thought for a moment* “He may stab me you should have a med kit on hand.”

He's not going to stab you... But, I'll bring a kit in case he hurts himself. I'll be right outside, ok? I... could keep him away, if you'd rather just rest.

He held his hands out, first to make sure Roman wasn't hurt and going to fall over. Perhaps he'd gotten too used to Kilroy's fragility.

He took the card, looking it over, before tucking it in his suit. He nodded.

Will do, sir. I shall see you later then. I'll work on the mask.

He gestured for him to head out the door.

*He nodded and moved to his room to get another mask he couldn’t help noticing how valuable he was without it*

*Li left as Roman went to get ready. It was a while later before the hinges of the double doors creaked again, supposedly as Kilroy was coming in.*

*He was still looking through his chest looking through all of them one of his masks breaking made him very…uncomfortable?*

*He looked over them picking a metal mask he had gotten it as a working project to see which metal would be best for his face he clicked it on and stood coming out*

“…” *He moved and sat by him* “I’m sorry.” *He huffed* “look I can get you a desk that looks exactly like this one. I shouldn’t have taken my anger out on your things.”

*He moved hugging him to the side* “of course. We should get you a safe for all of your…Roman stuff.”

"I-I hadn't thought of that. I want to do that."

*He croaked out, his voice sounding hoarse now. He said it as a statement, but really he was asking the man, like as if he wasn't allowed to have or to want that unless he said so.*

“Really? Yes. We can do that heavy duty stuff…something I can’t break.” *His hand twitched and rubbed Kilroys arm* “I am still so sorry.”

*Kilroy certainly liked the physical affirmation.*

"I know you are. It's n-not your fault. It's mine. With my stupid gun."

*He planned now to scrap it after this. He didn't care if it worked. He wanted it gone. He huffed, exhaling his irrationality.*

"I'm really sorry about your m-mask."

*He reached up with his looser arm in the hug to touch Roman's hand that had twitched.*

“No it’s okay I get to have another one. It was wood basically nothing to go.” *He let him touch not minding much* “the gun was cool.”

"Y-Yeah? I just... I've n-never hurt one of R-Roman's masks b-before. I-It's one of the w-worst things I c-could do. I already l-let h-him d-die on m-me. N-Now this? I s-shouldn't b-be here."

*His voice pitched, and his skin felt hot to himself, getting pink in the heat of the emotion.*

"I'll have it dismantled."

*He treated his machines like dogs. If they bit someone, they got put down.*

"T-Thank you, f-for giving me another c-chance. I k-know I k-keep messing up. That's... why I didn't want Li to come in here. He doesn't like when I cry."

*He took a deep breath.*

"I guess I invest my emotions in things t-too much. But, I get very sad, n-not angry."

*He smiled and nudged him a bit. Of course, he didn't mean the debilitating parts of it. More... his bluntness. His steadfastness in situations. His dry humor.*

“You think so?” *he thought about it and couldn’t see his anger as a positive reaction except maybe when he was hurting people*

*He giggled, making his previous tears glimmer in the light.*

"Oh, yeah! You show people their place. You make... things less scary, by being the strongest thing in the room."

“Ha you think I’m the strongest thing in the room?” *he laughed more at that*

*He felt all coy, giddy by Roman's laugh.*

"I'd bet my life on it."

*He tucked his head into his shoulders more and got a little softer in his voice.*

*He tilted his head to him, as though still admiring his strength and charisma while listening to the man deny it.*

“You act perfectly. They must be brain dead o-or severely misguided. You’re the best person on the planet.”

*He slow blinked for only a moment, seemingly taking in how nice that statement felt.*

“Even the people you kill. Their last thought should be, ‘wow.’ That was mine, at least.”

“Wow? Hm mostly I think it’s screaming for mercy or whatever there life was like before.”

*That… did make sense…*

“Well, at least they think of you as godly, having to beg to you. That’s closer to the truth.”

*He shrugged, and leaned closer against him, smelling his cologne and feeling the heat of his body.*

“I’ve never seen someone who hurts like you do.”

“Now that’s a compliment.” *His leg jumped and he sighed* “I’ve never seen someone with ideas like you.”

*That made his breath hitch. He didn’t expect Roman to compliment him for anything.*

“N-No? G-Gosh… uh… T-Thank you, Roman.”

*He compulsively tapped at the man, feeling so happy and honored, that his brain felt the need to count to not lose the feeling.*

“Of course it’s the least I can do for you right now…” *He looked at all the memories that Cain had in his arms. Things he could have destroyed from having that outburst*

*The excitement of their discussion nearly had him forget his distress. He followed his gaze to the items, which he was still holding so tightly. He slouched and let the papers be seen in his lap.*

“You two are very special to me. I-… He made me feel so… just… happy. It gave me a reason to live.”

*He felt a need to - poorly - explain, rather than realize Roman was feeling guilty.*

“I’m glad he did. I just I wasn’t thinking when I came in here slamming things over.”

“Oh…”

*He glanced more at the wood splinters they were sitting around.*

“…you’re in my head huh?” *He asked mainly hoping he wasn’t going as soft as he thought he was when it came to this whole situation*

*His eyes widened a bit.*

“N-No- I m-mean… No… Not really. I can only catches glimpses. Trust me, most of this is just me knowing you.”

*He put his hand on the man’s thigh and smiled.*

“It’s an unfair advantage, I’m aware. I know I don’t know you, I just… know your memories. And I… I wish I could be there to help you feel better.”

*He looked into his eyes, able to tell he was thinking about something, though he couldn’t tell what.*

“It’s okay. Really I don’t mind all that much.” *He smiled god he’d reader him a new desk and whatever else he’d need to make this right.”

*He sighed.*

“You push through too much. You’re a sweetheart.”

*His smile made him utterly relaxed, disregarding anything and everything of the day.*

“Can I… give you a full hug? T-To move past this whole thing, for both of us.”

“Sure. To move past this.” *He moved and gently hugged him trying his best not to squeeze too hard or twitch and snap something*

“T-Thank you.”

“…What mask is this, now?”

“It’s a aluminum mask model. It can be modified easily and it’s very cheap but I got it to test out the material.”

*That made him perk up. He giggled.*

“Ah, now we match. I like it. It suits you well.”

“You think so? I liked how chill it feels.” *He tapped it a bit* “it’s a good sound too.”

*He shyly offered. He moved in the hug to catch a glance at Roman’s mask.*

“Maybe. I would like your input I’m sure.” *the mask shined and shifted in the light it was a contrast to his deep dull eyes*

*He gave a big, toothy grin to that.*

"Thank you! I think this could be a fun project- i-if I'm not intruding on your artistic methods, o-of course."

*He darted his eyes around the metal, trying to make guesses to the alloy composition and how it was shaped.*

"It's beautiful..."

“No no you wouldn’t be.” *He nodded jerking his head a bit* “the mask? Yes. Sometimes simple is better.”

"Y-Yes, the mask. Mm, I agree. It leaves a lot more up to interpretation. More room for artistic liberty in the audience... or perhaps your opponent."

*He made note of his jerking, trying to settle himself softer on Roman's body to maybe put him at ease.*

"I'm sorry, am I staring too much?"

“Half my opponent are simple. Nothing to them and no great advantage.” *He shook his head* “no I don’t mind you looking.”

*He softened his expression to his denial.*

"I'm glad. I just... worried I made you nervous... since you twitched."

“Oh. Sometimes my body just twitch’s it’s no big deal. You don’t have to worry about it.” *Nervous. Please as if he’d ever be nervous…*

"Oh, alright. I just... You were twitching a lot when your mask... broke."

“Yeah…yeah my brain was trying to shut itself down. Too much anger and well sadness.”

"I see... You know yourself very well."

*Even though his words were very casual, his expression got very disheartened. He didn't mean to give Roman so much discomfort. And this proved to him that he did feel such emotions.*

"I... didn't think anyone in the warehouse saw you, if that makes you feel better."

“I know that doctors are idiots and my parents were worse.” *He glares a bit at memories before he shook his head* “That’s good though.”

*He stiffened at his resentful hiss.*

"Y-Yeah. T-They were... I wish someone could help you, Roman. I don't want you to hurt like this."

*He didn't seem aware of Li's plans to kidnap that doctor for the man.*

*He tried to hug him again, even if he was in danger of getting hit by his twitches.*

"I-I know... But, I do care. U-Unless it makes you feel worse, if I do. I just... It makes me sad. I know it shouldn't, but I just wish I could... hold you like this, and let you relax."

*He wished he could tell himself to stop making a big deal about this. It was making Roman feel worse about it, he was sure.*

"Y-Yeah? I-I'm g-glad - very glad - it doesn't m-make it worse."

*He sighed, resting his chin on his shoulder.*

"That's a good way to describe it. But I feel like sometimes it's like asthma for you."

“…hm” *His hands slammed to the floor* “asthma.”

*He grimaced at the velocity of the strike, darting his hand to look his over for redness.*

"Y-Yeah. Asthma. It's livable... but a little different or hard for you."

“That does make sense.” *He fixes his suit*

"Yeah? It does? That's good, I imagine, right? N-Not... that it feels that way. Just that... it's an analogy that fits."

*He watched him fidget, still hanging onto him.*

"Are you thinking about it very hard?"

*He made a guess to what his business partner was fixated on.*

“That and the new lipstick, getting a new mask.” *It was a mixed bag up there but his thoughts did move slow from one topic to another*

"Mm, yeah?"

"Would writing it down help?"

*He blinked, confused... surprised... at what he was seeing. He lowered his head with a quiet smile and faint blush and reached for the journal.*

"Let me help you. Where's the next empty page?"

“Yes…uh yes. It should be after five pages.” *He blinked rapidly*

"Wonderful. Thank you."

*His gratitude likely extended subtly to the idea of being sketched, as well. He lightly flipped through the journal for him, landing on the empty page to slide the man's thumb back onto.*

"You have a pen?"

“Yes.” *He moved tapping his suit and gave it to him. It was a nice gel pen*

"Ah, thank you. This is a good pen. I bet it writes smooth... You... want me to write it? Or would you rather do that?"

*He smiled a bit at the fact that he gave it to him, instead of using it.*

“Hm you should write I’m a bit jumpy right now.” *He sighed and moved to sit on his hands a old trick he used we he was little*

“Sure thing, Roman. Take your time.”

*He lifted his knee up to hold the journal to and opened the pen.*

*He watched him sit on his hands. He knew he was likely shy about the gesture, but he was personally happy that Roman knew something that worked for him, even if it came from a place of desperation.*

“O-Oh, wow. Fossilized wood…”

“…that’s an idea. Write it down.” *He nodded which turned into a jerk* “I’m sure Li could get a mask…I had my old mask seller he knew I was good for his best. I know him for a while.”

“Of course. Wilco.”

*He took the command and scribbled that in the growing notes section. He dotted a period and looked back up at Roman, more sympathetically.*

“Yeah? I’m sorry that you don’t have your seller here. That must be quite frustrating to lose.”

“Oh it is. I have to make a whole new profile with this guy it’s painstakingly hard.”

“Gosh. I’m sorry. I wish there was a way to expedite that for you. I’m sure you’re a good enough client that it should figure out.”

*He patted his shoulder.*

“He should figure it out! God half the time his information is wrong can you believe that?! He’s the only asshole that has good suggestions of masks and art and he’s a dumbass!”

“Oh- Jesus… That is awful.”

*He was glad Roman was letting his frustration out here, instead of letting it build, even if it didn’t take away the situation itself.*

“Maybe that lets you pull the wool over him easier on deals?”

“Hm. I do it doesn’t change his prices.”

“Ah, dang it. I just… don’t want this making your blood pressure go up. It’s not worth it.”

*He softly brushed his claw against Roman’s chest, above his heart.*

“Could he be persuaded through… other means?”

*Kilroy meant to suggest perhaps threatening the man.*

*He smiled then laughed loudly and rapidly* “per-Ha-persuade him?” *He continued to laugh* “look I’m open minded to most things but I don’t think that would work.”

*He leaned back to let the booming sound not hurt his ears. He blinked and darted his eyes around Roman, to figure out how awful his suggestion was.*

“N-No? I suppose if he’s that dense, it probably wouldn’t work anyway.”

*Even if Kilroy had said something so silly, maybe it’d taken Roman’s mind off being frustrated.*

*He continued laughing until it turned quiet.* “no I don’t think it would work.” *He let his face drop and relaxed*

“Glad I gave you a good laugh, at least. So… That’s item one on your list. Should I write down the next one?”

*He patted his shoulder and rubbed his arm.*

*His suit was a high quality feel it was tight and smooth* “I think I’ve got it.” *He moved to get back his journal*

“Ah- I’m glad to hear it.”

*He winked and handed him back the pen and journal. The comforting sensation of his luxury suit would always stay in his mind.*

*He moved to write his writing was a bit more messy and as he wrote his hand jerked and scribbled*

*He smiled the whole way through, hoping that maybe that would help him tremor less.*

“You uh… I liked your drawing, b-by the way.”

*He gave a quick glance to him* “…thank you.” *He cleared his throat* “I was half asleep really.”

"Yeah? Even more impressive then... drawing when you're tired."

*Internally, that made him even more giddy to think that Roman thought about him in those quiet moments, alone, and peaceful.*

“Maybe…it mainly my mind being forced to shut down so my body stops moving.”

"Ah, I see."

*He nodded along.*

"...Yet, I'd say you drew me quite perfectly. I hope you didn't have to work through pain to accomplish it."

“No not at all just some sleepiness.” *He fixed at his mask blushing a bit* “you have an easy profile.”

"I'm relieved to hear that-"

*He paused and tilted his head.*

"...Oh?"

“Uh huh. I learned to draw for Janus so I have to say it’s easier profile than most along with the mask.”

"You did? Wow... I'm... Wow. Ha! I'm impressed."

*He was at a loss for words at that fact. He felt down the face of his mask. It was quite a straight line, all things considered.*

"I'm glad I could be simple for your talented hands."

*He nodded he was writing his list of now a container for the new lipstick. His watch beeped a tiny toon* “I’m not that good Kilroy.” *He stopped his watch*

*He chuckled at the modesty.*

"I suppose we'll have to agree to disagree... What's the beeping for?"

*His eyes widened at that.*

"A-Are you sure? That seems important. I-It shouldn't take that long, right? We can finish your notes after..."

*Crap. Maybe that's what would explain his slowing down. Maybe his heart was going too fast.*

“No it’s fine. If I pass out my body will fix itself….” *His hand jerked and a thick line flew across his drawing. He frowned though it was not seen* “fuck.”

"Roman..."

*He hummed with almost an admonishing tone.*

"Do you take medication for it? I can go get it while you keep drawing. I-I can check your pulse..."

*To be honest, he didn't really know how to do that, but he supposed if his heart was racing, he could feel that.*

"I don't mean to embarrass you. I want you to be safe. That matters to me. Let's go to the couch. Are the things you need to check it in the bedroom?"

*He cared so much so, that he temporarily left the items he was trying to rescue from the broken desk on the ground.*

“They’re in the bedroom yes if that will get you to stop being a lap dog Jesus.” *It seemed his guilt about the desk was wearing off too with all the touching and such*

*He let go of him.*

"That is what I'm best at being."

*He would've preferred to walk him to the couch, but maybe if he ran to the bedroom quick enough, he could appease Roman's desire to not be patronized.*

"I'll be back."

*He nodded and moved to the couch and looked to the smashed table sighing*

*Kilroy ran into the bedroom, as fast as he could go, darting around to look for these supplies. He checked his nightstand, assuming it would be there.*

*There was a drawer slightly open it had an arm pressure cuff and a finger pressure sensor* “uh god.” *Roman frowned and huffed*

*He quickly opened the drawer fully to take the things out, and wanted to turn and run, but got stuck in a compulsion of opening and closing the drawer a few times.*

"Come on. Come on."

*He silently cursed himself and finished up as soon as he could, racing back to the lounging area.*

"I-I'm h-here!"

*he was laying back on the couch with his eyes closed* “yes? Okay let’s get this over with.” *He sat up*

*He flinched, worried that getting up too quickly would get him lightheaded, as it did for himself.*

"R-Right. Ok. I suppose I'll just slip this on your arm... and this on your finger, and we let the machine do it's thing, right?"

*He narrated as he fumbled with the cuff and pressure sensor to get it on him.*

“Yep.” *He moved to help him put the cuff onto his own arm* “nothing to worry over I’m sure this will read and it’ll be normal.”

*He nodded as a quiet thank you for the assistance and scooted the cuff up as high as he could get it on his arm. He then clipped the finger sensor on, and sat on the couch next to him.*

"I-I'm sure it will be... Thank you for letting me do it for you."

*He had his doubts, especially if Roman was jinxing it.*

“I knew you wouldn’t have dropped it unless I did what you asked.” *The pressure cuff extends a bit making a simple sound and the finger clip takes its time too*

*He gave a nervous grimace.*

"T-That's true. I wouldn't..."

*His voice caught him out of his spiraling. He blushed.*

"O-Oh. S-Sorry. Sorry..."

*He leaned over to read it too.*

"W-What does that mean? I-Is that g-good? Is it t-too high?"

*He squeaked. He wished he knew more medical information. But the fact that both sensors told the same results made him sure that whatever the answer was, it was accurate.*

“It’s high but that’s just about normal for me…counting the episode I had I say I’m fine. Here get me a sugars free soda and whatever you want to drink.”

"R-Right, yeah. That d-does m-make sense."

*He looked towards the broken table...*

"Roger! I-I'll go get that."

*He bounced up like a rocket and fled over to the fridge to get him the soda. He surprisingly got himself a water and came back over to give it to him.*

"I h-hope this h-helps."

*He sat down next to him and rocked back and forth, trying to slow down and relax. Roman said he was fine. We trust that. We should, at least.*

*He watched him relax. He hardly ever got to see him attempt such a thing. So, it was fascinating to watch... and made him caught off guard by the question.*

"O-Oh-"

*Gosh, it had been such a whirlwind of a day, he nearly forgot about the fiasco with his suit buttons.*

"W-Well, I... It was alright. I woke up later than I'd like to. S-So, I rushed to get ready. I suppose it was just... an anxious day. There's... always a lot going on at home, s-so..."

*He nervously scratched an itch on his arm. He took a deep breath.*

"I came to work as quick as I could. Last night, I did some inventing, though."

*He thought that would interest Roman more than his boring, miserable day.*

“Inventing? Yeah? What did you make?” *His clip went down by one*

*He watched it tick... He was somewhat flattered. He took another deep breath. Relax, Kilroy. It wasn't that bad of a day. You're overreacting. You're still coming down from worrying about him.*

"I'm sorry. I'm ok... I was working on... something for the office."

*He squinted. His memory seemed poor.*

"Oh, I think it was... some sort of better communication device for the staff. Easier than Li having to mumble under his breath so nobody can hear him."

“That’s good.” *he nodded to him as he took off his cuff* “i think Li would like that so when he got angry he doesn’t have to whisper shout.”

"Thank you. Heh, yeah, I'm sure he'd prefer not to hide like that."

*He suddenly remembered the water in his hands and opened it to take a sip, hopefully to remove his remaining anxiety.*

"I thought that maybe it could help things run smoothly around here... but intel only gets you so far. At the end of the day, if nobody knows what to do with it, it's pointless anyway."

*He sighed and leaned back into the couch. He turned his head to Roman.*

"What about your day?"

*He wrung his hands around his water bottle as he listened. He smirked.*

“C-Certainly a more productive morning than m-mine! It uh… sounds peaceful. T-Thank you for being here, taking care of things before I show up late everyday.”

“Of course. I mean I’m a door away from work so I don’t really have an excuse to be late.” *He chuckled a bit his heart rate had dropped slightly to a more normal level*

*He smiled more broadly. He liked seeing the man in a good mood… Especially after he’d pestered him so much today.*

“F-Fair point! You seem to have a good schedule. It sounds like it fits you nicely… Good, straightforward routine… Even got a little time to workout. That’s really great, Roman.”

*He took a breath.*

“I must be a cannonball in your day. All over the goddamn place. I’m sorry for making things so complicated.”

“Hm actually no. You have some good ideas different ways of thinking it’s good for business.”

“Y-Yeah? I p-promise I’m not fishing for compliments or anything… I just don’t ever want to get in your way.”

*He was relieved to hear that Roman didn’t think that way about him… Now, just to remove that feeling. He reached out to tap at Roman’s soda.*

“T-Thank you for being so patient with me.”

*He nodded* “it’s not that hard. I have to deal with people who test my patience every day.”

*He gave a weak smirk, more bittersweet than anything.*

“R-Right. You’re very resilient to deal with that all the time. I… have a question. Would you mind if I asked it? Does… Li make you feel better when you’re angry?”

*He looked to him* “I’d say so…I mean he knows what to do. He’s got ways to stop my episodes and all that crap.”

“Oh yeah? T-That’s great, obviously. You two have known each other for a while.”

*the mask left much to the imagination with only his eyes and part of his lips showing* “we have yes. He’s a good man and a better assistant.”

*Yet it was just enough to keep Kilroy calm and hopefully to bite his tongue on being more of a crybaby.*

“At least… he’s something you still have here, right?”

*He tried to say something optimistic, considering how much Roman had lost.*

“He is yes. Honestly I don’t know what I would do without his support…don’t tell him that he has a big enough ego.”

*He gave a hearty cackle.*

“Really? I don’t know I think you can be a good boss.” *his arm flew up and he frowned taking it down*

“Yeah? Thank you, Roman.”

“Maybe I’m just paranoid. Maybe Li doesn’t think so. I just… I don’t like the way he looks at me when I’m a mess.”

*He shook his head.*

“It shouldn’t matter. He fixed my buttons. He didn’t have to do that.”

“Emotional things aren’t his thing really. I mean if he can solve the problem quickly he doesn’t have patience for it.” *He smiled a bit* “see? If he can fix it he’ll do what he can.”

#//sorry phone lag

“Mask!” *his eyes squeezed closed and he put a hand over his mouth trying to calm himself down*

@mr-david-li

You’re doing great, sir. V-Very good. Just hang on, Roman.

It felt agonizingly long, but eventually, the elevator dinged, and the doors opened.

Li ran ahead to open the double doors for the man.

We’re here. Let’s go. Let it out in here.

Li focused his attention on the mask, examining the fracture in it and how it could be repaired. He knew regardless it would never be the same level of antiquity.

He looked up. Kilroy would be very sad about his desk. That thing meant so much to him. Where was Kilroy? Gosh, they left him behind, didn’t they?

He approached the scene, keeping a wide distance from Roman, until he was in his line of sight.

Be careful of the splinters, sir.

Li didn’t fear being hit, and didn’t recoil at the sight of his raised fists, even if he should have.

I know this is very hard for you, sir. None of us wanted this, or could have predicted it.

…Do you need something else to break?

I’ll find a replacement for the desk…

Why don’t you take a seat on the couch?

Is there anything besides something else to break that I can get you? Any pain anywhere? I can get a drink or an ice pack.

He walked past him to the lounging area, knowing that he could be hit if he came closer.

Thank you.

He acknowledged as he sat down. He sighed and walked towards the door to get what he asked for, when he paused.

You think so?

He obviously agreed, but he didn’t expect Roman to think of it so soon. He took off his glasses to rub his eyes. He couldn’t be in two places at once.

I can page him to see if he’ll come back upstairs… If he doesn’t… Well, that’s not something you should worry about, sir. I will handle it.

He said, very unconvincingly.

*He closed his eyes it felt like his heart was slowing down* “yes. I-I’m sorry just stupid I didn’t mean to get so upset.” *Ig just bubbles over* “hm.”

I understand, sir. It’s not your fault at all. You had every reason to be upset.

You stay there. I’ll get your coffee… a-and put this down.

He lifted the mask to emphasis it.

Of course, sir. It is my honor.

He stepped outside, and the sound of his dress shoes echoed down the hall.

Li sighed.

He’s not answering…

He mumbled to himself.

Li put his pager away, seeing that it was not working to get Kilroy back. He decided to focus on the coffee. He went to the machine in his office and started dispensing the coffee into a mug.

He looked at the mask, setting the two halves on his desk. In all these years, Roman never had broken a mask.

…Roman’s phone buzzed with a call.

*He sighed but growled and picked up the phone from his pocket* “Roman speaking. What ya want?”

"R-Roman?"

*Kilroy sniffled from the other end.*

"I-I'm s-so sorry. I d-didn't know it would d-do that. I w-would n-never want to b-break your m-mask. I-I'm so sorry. Y-You must f-feel awful."

“Kilroy…look it’s fine.” *He groans* “It was not the rarest mask I…I am upset to have it broken but I don’t blame you.” *He rubbed his head and closed his eyes*

"I-I know h-how m-much it m-means t-to you. C-Can I find you a n-new one? Piece it b-back together?"

*He knew he was bothering him. He should have just left the office, maybe go to a bar. That would be escaping responsibility, though.*

“Kilroy no it’s okay. It’s a wood fossil mask they make the them custom I have a guy.” *He gagged a bit his head throbbed to much*

"Y-You have a g-guy- W-What was that? Are you ok? Are you sick? Are you throwing up?!"

*Kilroy seemed to panic at that.*

“My head just hurts…” *He sighed* “I got really angry. My head is throbbing.”

"O-Oh. I s-see."

*His voice was a little louder, suggesting that he got closer to the microphone as he gripped the phone tighter.*

"I t-thought you would be. That's ok. You really should be angry. I'm sorry about your head though. C-Can I help?"

“I would be if I could. You’ll probably be mad at me l slammed your desk and broke the table…”

*He was quiet for a while.*

"...My desk?"

*There were some sounds of fabric rubbing against itself as Kilroy readjusted.*

"W-What... What about all the things inside it?"

“I don’t know.” *He waited for a reaction though he felt like he was going to pass out his leg kicked in the couch and he huffed*

"O-Ok. I'll... I'll c-come up and see."

"I d-don't want Li to talk to me, though."

“Can he at least come in to give me pain pills?” *He mumbled to Kilroy if he wasn’t in so much pain he’d wonder why and maybe defend li talking with him*

"O-Of course... Of course, Roman."

*He was relieved to hear that he would take medicine like that, and not just tough it out. As such, his response was more toned about that, rather than about letting Li in.*

"I... um... I h-hope it helps."

*He nodded not that Kilroy could see it*

"A-Alright, I'll um... get up there. Stay there. A-And I can stay on the p-phone in c-case something happens, if y-you'd like, o-or... or w-whatever you need."

*There were the sounds of him rustling out from under the table. At that time, there was the soft knock of Li back on the double doors, to signal his entrance back with the supplies.*

“Come in if you have pill.” *He groaned this was just about the worst episode he had in a while*

Li stepped in with a tray, which he planned to put on the coffee table, but then realized.

Ah...

He set it on the cushions of another couch and came over to Roman with the pain relievers in one hand and the coffee mug in his other.

Here you are, sir.

*He moved putting the pill in his mouth chewing* “thank you Li and Kilroy doesn’t want to talk to you. I can talk to him if he’s not upset about his desk.” *He slowly sat up and took the mug*

The man paused and furrowed his brow. He didn't realize why Kilroy would seemingly be upset at him.

Oh... Alright.

He shook the confusion off and readjusted his glasses.

Is the coffee to your liking? Would you care for sugar or cream?

“No no I just need something to put my head back on.” *He gulp half the mug then sighed* “great.”

He nodded and gave a small smile to see him taking care of himself, even if in an extreme manner.

You talked to Kilroy then, I realize?

“I mumbled some things to Kilroy. Really I just told him about the desk and listened to him.”

Hm... That's good, of course, since I couldn't go down to see him. I assume he's coming up then?... And he doesn't want me here.

Let me make sure you're all set before I can leave you alone. I don't want you in any sort of danger.

“I’m not in danger what you think he’s going to go off the handle and stab me?” *He thought for a moment* “He may stab me you should have a med kit on hand.”

He's not going to stab you... But, I'll bring a kit in case he hurts himself. I'll be right outside, ok? I... could keep him away, if you'd rather just rest.

He held his hands out, first to make sure Roman wasn't hurt and going to fall over. Perhaps he'd gotten too used to Kilroy's fragility.

He took the card, looking it over, before tucking it in his suit. He nodded.

Will do, sir. I shall see you later then. I'll work on the mask.

He gestured for him to head out the door.

*He nodded and moved to his room to get another mask he couldn’t help noticing how valuable he was without it*

*Li left as Roman went to get ready. It was a while later before the hinges of the double doors creaked again, supposedly as Kilroy was coming in.*

*He was still looking through his chest looking through all of them one of his masks breaking made him very…uncomfortable?*

*He looked over them picking a metal mask he had gotten it as a working project to see which metal would be best for his face he clicked it on and stood coming out*

“…” *He moved and sat by him* “I’m sorry.” *He huffed* “look I can get you a desk that looks exactly like this one. I shouldn’t have taken my anger out on your things.”

*He moved hugging him to the side* “of course. We should get you a safe for all of your…Roman stuff.”

"I-I hadn't thought of that. I want to do that."

*He croaked out, his voice sounding hoarse now. He said it as a statement, but really he was asking the man, like as if he wasn't allowed to have or to want that unless he said so.*

“Really? Yes. We can do that heavy duty stuff…something I can’t break.” *His hand twitched and rubbed Kilroys arm* “I am still so sorry.”

*Kilroy certainly liked the physical affirmation.*

"I know you are. It's n-not your fault. It's mine. With my stupid gun."

*He planned now to scrap it after this. He didn't care if it worked. He wanted it gone. He huffed, exhaling his irrationality.*

"I'm really sorry about your m-mask."

*He reached up with his looser arm in the hug to touch Roman's hand that had twitched.*

“No it’s okay I get to have another one. It was wood basically nothing to go.” *He let him touch not minding much* “the gun was cool.”

"Y-Yeah? I just... I've n-never hurt one of R-Roman's masks b-before. I-It's one of the w-worst things I c-could do. I already l-let h-him d-die on m-me. N-Now this? I s-shouldn't b-be here."

*His voice pitched, and his skin felt hot to himself, getting pink in the heat of the emotion.*

"I'll have it dismantled."

*He treated his machines like dogs. If they bit someone, they got put down.*

"T-Thank you, f-for giving me another c-chance. I k-know I k-keep messing up. That's... why I didn't want Li to come in here. He doesn't like when I cry."

*He took a deep breath.*

"I guess I invest my emotions in things t-too much. But, I get very sad, n-not angry."

*He smiled and nudged him a bit. Of course, he didn't mean the debilitating parts of it. More... his bluntness. His steadfastness in situations. His dry humor.*

“You think so?” *he thought about it and couldn’t see his anger as a positive reaction except maybe when he was hurting people*

*He giggled, making his previous tears glimmer in the light.*

"Oh, yeah! You show people their place. You make... things less scary, by being the strongest thing in the room."

“Ha you think I’m the strongest thing in the room?” *he laughed more at that*

*He felt all coy, giddy by Roman's laugh.*

"I'd bet my life on it."

*He tucked his head into his shoulders more and got a little softer in his voice.*

*He tilted his head to him, as though still admiring his strength and charisma while listening to the man deny it.*

“You act perfectly. They must be brain dead o-or severely misguided. You’re the best person on the planet.”

*He slow blinked for only a moment, seemingly taking in how nice that statement felt.*

“Even the people you kill. Their last thought should be, ‘wow.’ That was mine, at least.”

“Wow? Hm mostly I think it’s screaming for mercy or whatever there life was like before.”

*That… did make sense…*

“Well, at least they think of you as godly, having to beg to you. That’s closer to the truth.”

*He shrugged, and leaned closer against him, smelling his cologne and feeling the heat of his body.*

“I’ve never seen someone who hurts like you do.”

“Now that’s a compliment.” *His leg jumped and he sighed* “I’ve never seen someone with ideas like you.”

*That made his breath hitch. He didn’t expect Roman to compliment him for anything.*

“N-No? G-Gosh… uh… T-Thank you, Roman.”

*He compulsively tapped at the man, feeling so happy and honored, that his brain felt the need to count to not lose the feeling.*

“Of course it’s the least I can do for you right now…” *He looked at all the memories that Cain had in his arms. Things he could have destroyed from having that outburst*

*The excitement of their discussion nearly had him forget his distress. He followed his gaze to the items, which he was still holding so tightly. He slouched and let the papers be seen in his lap.*

“You two are very special to me. I-… He made me feel so… just… happy. It gave me a reason to live.”

*He felt a need to - poorly - explain, rather than realize Roman was feeling guilty.*

“I’m glad he did. I just I wasn’t thinking when I came in here slamming things over.”

“Oh…”

*He glanced more at the wood splinters they were sitting around.*

“…you’re in my head huh?” *He asked mainly hoping he wasn’t going as soft as he thought he was when it came to this whole situation*

*His eyes widened a bit.*

“N-No- I m-mean… No… Not really. I can only catches glimpses. Trust me, most of this is just me knowing you.”

*He put his hand on the man’s thigh and smiled.*

“It’s an unfair advantage, I’m aware. I know I don’t know you, I just… know your memories. And I… I wish I could be there to help you feel better.”

*He looked into his eyes, able to tell he was thinking about something, though he couldn’t tell what.*

“It’s okay. Really I don’t mind all that much.” *He smiled god he’d reader him a new desk and whatever else he’d need to make this right.”

*He sighed.*

“You push through too much. You’re a sweetheart.”

*His smile made him utterly relaxed, disregarding anything and everything of the day.*

“Can I… give you a full hug? T-To move past this whole thing, for both of us.”

“Sure. To move past this.” *He moved and gently hugged him trying his best not to squeeze too hard or twitch and snap something*

“T-Thank you.”

“…What mask is this, now?”

“It’s a aluminum mask model. It can be modified easily and it’s very cheap but I got it to test out the material.”

*That made him perk up. He giggled.*

“Ah, now we match. I like it. It suits you well.”

“You think so? I liked how chill it feels.” *He tapped it a bit* “it’s a good sound too.”

*He shyly offered. He moved in the hug to catch a glance at Roman’s mask.*

“Maybe. I would like your input I’m sure.” *the mask shined and shifted in the light it was a contrast to his deep dull eyes*

*He gave a big, toothy grin to that.*

"Thank you! I think this could be a fun project- i-if I'm not intruding on your artistic methods, o-of course."

*He darted his eyes around the metal, trying to make guesses to the alloy composition and how it was shaped.*

"It's beautiful..."

“No no you wouldn’t be.” *He nodded jerking his head a bit* “the mask? Yes. Sometimes simple is better.”

"Y-Yes, the mask. Mm, I agree. It leaves a lot more up to interpretation. More room for artistic liberty in the audience... or perhaps your opponent."

*He made note of his jerking, trying to settle himself softer on Roman's body to maybe put him at ease.*

"I'm sorry, am I staring too much?"

“Half my opponent are simple. Nothing to them and no great advantage.” *He shook his head* “no I don’t mind you looking.”

*He softened his expression to his denial.*

"I'm glad. I just... worried I made you nervous... since you twitched."

“Oh. Sometimes my body just twitch’s it’s no big deal. You don’t have to worry about it.” *Nervous. Please as if he’d ever be nervous…*

"Oh, alright. I just... You were twitching a lot when your mask... broke."

“Yeah…yeah my brain was trying to shut itself down. Too much anger and well sadness.”

"I see... You know yourself very well."

*Even though his words were very casual, his expression got very disheartened. He didn't mean to give Roman so much discomfort. And this proved to him that he did feel such emotions.*

"I... didn't think anyone in the warehouse saw you, if that makes you feel better."

“I know that doctors are idiots and my parents were worse.” *He glares a bit at memories before he shook his head* “That’s good though.”

*He stiffened at his resentful hiss.*

"Y-Yeah. T-They were... I wish someone could help you, Roman. I don't want you to hurt like this."

*He didn't seem aware of Li's plans to kidnap that doctor for the man.*

*He tried to hug him again, even if he was in danger of getting hit by his twitches.*

"I-I know... But, I do care. U-Unless it makes you feel worse, if I do. I just... It makes me sad. I know it shouldn't, but I just wish I could... hold you like this, and let you relax."

*He wished he could tell himself to stop making a big deal about this. It was making Roman feel worse about it, he was sure.*

"Y-Yeah? I-I'm g-glad - very glad - it doesn't m-make it worse."

*He sighed, resting his chin on his shoulder.*

"That's a good way to describe it. But I feel like sometimes it's like asthma for you."

“…hm” *His hands slammed to the floor* “asthma.”

*He grimaced at the velocity of the strike, darting his hand to look his over for redness.*

"Y-Yeah. Asthma. It's livable... but a little different or hard for you."

“That does make sense.” *He fixes his suit*

"Yeah? It does? That's good, I imagine, right? N-Not... that it feels that way. Just that... it's an analogy that fits."

*He watched him fidget, still hanging onto him.*

"Are you thinking about it very hard?"

*He made a guess to what his business partner was fixated on.*

“That and the new lipstick, getting a new mask.” *It was a mixed bag up there but his thoughts did move slow from one topic to another*

"Mm, yeah?"

"Would writing it down help?"

*He blinked, confused... surprised... at what he was seeing. He lowered his head with a quiet smile and faint blush and reached for the journal.*

"Let me help you. Where's the next empty page?"

“Yes…uh yes. It should be after five pages.” *He blinked rapidly*

"Wonderful. Thank you."

*His gratitude likely extended subtly to the idea of being sketched, as well. He lightly flipped through the journal for him, landing on the empty page to slide the man's thumb back onto.*

"You have a pen?"

“Yes.” *He moved tapping his suit and gave it to him. It was a nice gel pen*

"Ah, thank you. This is a good pen. I bet it writes smooth... You... want me to write it? Or would you rather do that?"

*He smiled a bit at the fact that he gave it to him, instead of using it.*

“Hm you should write I’m a bit jumpy right now.” *He sighed and moved to sit on his hands a old trick he used we he was little*

“Sure thing, Roman. Take your time.”

*He lifted his knee up to hold the journal to and opened the pen.*

*He watched him sit on his hands. He knew he was likely shy about the gesture, but he was personally happy that Roman knew something that worked for him, even if it came from a place of desperation.*

“O-Oh, wow. Fossilized wood…”

“…that’s an idea. Write it down.” *He nodded which turned into a jerk* “I’m sure Li could get a mask…I had my old mask seller he knew I was good for his best. I know him for a while.”

“Of course. Wilco.”

*He took the command and scribbled that in the growing notes section. He dotted a period and looked back up at Roman, more sympathetically.*

“Yeah? I’m sorry that you don’t have your seller here. That must be quite frustrating to lose.”

“Oh it is. I have to make a whole new profile with this guy it’s painstakingly hard.”

“Gosh. I’m sorry. I wish there was a way to expedite that for you. I’m sure you’re a good enough client that it should figure out.”

*He patted his shoulder.*

“He should figure it out! God half the time his information is wrong can you believe that?! He’s the only asshole that has good suggestions of masks and art and he’s a dumbass!”

“Oh- Jesus… That is awful.”

*He was glad Roman was letting his frustration out here, instead of letting it build, even if it didn’t take away the situation itself.*

“Maybe that lets you pull the wool over him easier on deals?”

“Hm. I do it doesn’t change his prices.”

“Ah, dang it. I just… don’t want this making your blood pressure go up. It’s not worth it.”

*He softly brushed his claw against Roman’s chest, above his heart.*

“Could he be persuaded through… other means?”

*Kilroy meant to suggest perhaps threatening the man.*

*He smiled then laughed loudly and rapidly* “per-Ha-persuade him?” *He continued to laugh* “look I’m open minded to most things but I don’t think that would work.”

*He leaned back to let the booming sound not hurt his ears. He blinked and darted his eyes around Roman, to figure out how awful his suggestion was.*

“N-No? I suppose if he’s that dense, it probably wouldn’t work anyway.”

*Even if Kilroy had said something so silly, maybe it’d taken Roman’s mind off being frustrated.*

*He continued laughing until it turned quiet.* “no I don’t think it would work.” *He let his face drop and relaxed*

“Glad I gave you a good laugh, at least. So… That’s item one on your list. Should I write down the next one?”

*He patted his shoulder and rubbed his arm.*

*His suit was a high quality feel it was tight and smooth* “I think I’ve got it.” *He moved to get back his journal*

“Ah- I’m glad to hear it.”

*He winked and handed him back the pen and journal. The comforting sensation of his luxury suit would always stay in his mind.*

*He moved to write his writing was a bit more messy and as he wrote his hand jerked and scribbled*

*He smiled the whole way through, hoping that maybe that would help him tremor less.*

“You uh… I liked your drawing, b-by the way.”

*He gave a quick glance to him* “…thank you.” *He cleared his throat* “I was half asleep really.”

"Yeah? Even more impressive then... drawing when you're tired."

*Internally, that made him even more giddy to think that Roman thought about him in those quiet moments, alone, and peaceful.*

“Maybe…it mainly my mind being forced to shut down so my body stops moving.”

"Ah, I see."

*He nodded along.*

"...Yet, I'd say you drew me quite perfectly. I hope you didn't have to work through pain to accomplish it."

“No not at all just some sleepiness.” *He fixed at his mask blushing a bit* “you have an easy profile.”

"I'm relieved to hear that-"

*He paused and tilted his head.*

"...Oh?"

“Uh huh. I learned to draw for Janus so I have to say it’s easier profile than most along with the mask.”

"You did? Wow... I'm... Wow. Ha! I'm impressed."

*He was at a loss for words at that fact. He felt down the face of his mask. It was quite a straight line, all things considered.*

"I'm glad I could be simple for your talented hands."

*He nodded he was writing his list of now a container for the new lipstick. His watch beeped a tiny toon* “I’m not that good Kilroy.” *He stopped his watch*

*He chuckled at the modesty.*

"I suppose we'll have to agree to disagree... What's the beeping for?"

*His eyes widened at that.*

"A-Are you sure? That seems important. I-It shouldn't take that long, right? We can finish your notes after..."

*Crap. Maybe that's what would explain his slowing down. Maybe his heart was going too fast.*

“No it’s fine. If I pass out my body will fix itself….” *His hand jerked and a thick line flew across his drawing. He frowned though it was not seen* “fuck.”

"Roman..."

*He hummed with almost an admonishing tone.*

"Do you take medication for it? I can go get it while you keep drawing. I-I can check your pulse..."

*To be honest, he didn't really know how to do that, but he supposed if his heart was racing, he could feel that.*

"I don't mean to embarrass you. I want you to be safe. That matters to me. Let's go to the couch. Are the things you need to check it in the bedroom?"

*He cared so much so, that he temporarily left the items he was trying to rescue from the broken desk on the ground.*

“They’re in the bedroom yes if that will get you to stop being a lap dog Jesus.” *It seemed his guilt about the desk was wearing off too with all the touching and such*

*He let go of him.*

"That is what I'm best at being."

*He would've preferred to walk him to the couch, but maybe if he ran to the bedroom quick enough, he could appease Roman's desire to not be patronized.*

"I'll be back."

*He nodded and moved to the couch and looked to the smashed table sighing*

*Kilroy ran into the bedroom, as fast as he could go, darting around to look for these supplies. He checked his nightstand, assuming it would be there.*

*There was a drawer slightly open it had an arm pressure cuff and a finger pressure sensor* “uh god.” *Roman frowned and huffed*

*He quickly opened the drawer fully to take the things out, and wanted to turn and run, but got stuck in a compulsion of opening and closing the drawer a few times.*

"Come on. Come on."

*He silently cursed himself and finished up as soon as he could, racing back to the lounging area.*

"I-I'm h-here!"

*he was laying back on the couch with his eyes closed* “yes? Okay let’s get this over with.” *He sat up*

*He flinched, worried that getting up too quickly would get him lightheaded, as it did for himself.*

"R-Right. Ok. I suppose I'll just slip this on your arm... and this on your finger, and we let the machine do it's thing, right?"

*He narrated as he fumbled with the cuff and pressure sensor to get it on him.*

“Yep.” *He moved to help him put the cuff onto his own arm* “nothing to worry over I’m sure this will read and it’ll be normal.”

*He nodded as a quiet thank you for the assistance and scooted the cuff up as high as he could get it on his arm. He then clipped the finger sensor on, and sat on the couch next to him.*

"I-I'm sure it will be... Thank you for letting me do it for you."

*He had his doubts, especially if Roman was jinxing it.*

“I knew you wouldn’t have dropped it unless I did what you asked.” *The pressure cuff extends a bit making a simple sound and the finger clip takes its time too*

*He gave a nervous grimace.*

"T-That's true. I wouldn't..."

*His voice caught him out of his spiraling. He blushed.*

"O-Oh. S-Sorry. Sorry..."

*He leaned over to read it too.*

"W-What does that mean? I-Is that g-good? Is it t-too high?"

*He squeaked. He wished he knew more medical information. But the fact that both sensors told the same results made him sure that whatever the answer was, it was accurate.*

“It’s high but that’s just about normal for me…counting the episode I had I say I’m fine. Here get me a sugars free soda and whatever you want to drink.”

"R-Right, yeah. That d-does m-make sense."

*He looked towards the broken table...*

"Roger! I-I'll go get that."

*He bounced up like a rocket and fled over to the fridge to get him the soda. He surprisingly got himself a water and came back over to give it to him.*

"I h-hope this h-helps."

*He sat down next to him and rocked back and forth, trying to slow down and relax. Roman said he was fine. We trust that. We should, at least.*

*He watched him relax. He hardly ever got to see him attempt such a thing. So, it was fascinating to watch... and made him caught off guard by the question.*

"O-Oh-"

*Gosh, it had been such a whirlwind of a day, he nearly forgot about the fiasco with his suit buttons.*

"W-Well, I... It was alright. I woke up later than I'd like to. S-So, I rushed to get ready. I suppose it was just... an anxious day. There's... always a lot going on at home, s-so..."

*He nervously scratched an itch on his arm. He took a deep breath.*

"I came to work as quick as I could. Last night, I did some inventing, though."

*He thought that would interest Roman more than his boring, miserable day.*

“Inventing? Yeah? What did you make?” *His clip went down by one*

*He watched it tick... He was somewhat flattered. He took another deep breath. Relax, Kilroy. It wasn't that bad of a day. You're overreacting. You're still coming down from worrying about him.*

"I'm sorry. I'm ok... I was working on... something for the office."

*He squinted. His memory seemed poor.*

"Oh, I think it was... some sort of better communication device for the staff. Easier than Li having to mumble under his breath so nobody can hear him."

“That’s good.” *he nodded to him as he took off his cuff* “i think Li would like that so when he got angry he doesn’t have to whisper shout.”

"Thank you. Heh, yeah, I'm sure he'd prefer not to hide like that."

*He suddenly remembered the water in his hands and opened it to take a sip, hopefully to remove his remaining anxiety.*

"I thought that maybe it could help things run smoothly around here... but intel only gets you so far. At the end of the day, if nobody knows what to do with it, it's pointless anyway."

*He sighed and leaned back into the couch. He turned his head to Roman.*

"What about your day?"

*He wrung his hands around his water bottle as he listened. He smirked.*

“C-Certainly a more productive morning than m-mine! It uh… sounds peaceful. T-Thank you for being here, taking care of things before I show up late everyday.”

“Of course. I mean I’m a door away from work so I don’t really have an excuse to be late.” *He chuckled a bit his heart rate had dropped slightly to a more normal level*

*He smiled more broadly. He liked seeing the man in a good mood… Especially after he’d pestered him so much today.*

“F-Fair point! You seem to have a good schedule. It sounds like it fits you nicely… Good, straightforward routine… Even got a little time to workout. That’s really great, Roman.”

*He took a breath.*

“I must be a cannonball in your day. All over the goddamn place. I’m sorry for making things so complicated.”

“Hm actually no. You have some good ideas different ways of thinking it’s good for business.”

“Y-Yeah? I p-promise I’m not fishing for compliments or anything… I just don’t ever want to get in your way.”

*He was relieved to hear that Roman didn’t think that way about him… Now, just to remove that feeling. He reached out to tap at Roman’s soda.*

“T-Thank you for being so patient with me.”

*He nodded* “it’s not that hard. I have to deal with people who test my patience every day.”

*He gave a weak smirk, more bittersweet than anything.*

“R-Right. You’re very resilient to deal with that all the time. I… have a question. Would you mind if I asked it? Does… Li make you feel better when you’re angry?”

*He looked to him* “I’d say so…I mean he knows what to do. He’s got ways to stop my episodes and all that crap.”

“Oh yeah? T-That’s great, obviously. You two have known each other for a while.”

*the mask left much to the imagination with only his eyes and part of his lips showing* “we have yes. He’s a good man and a better assistant.”

*Yet it was just enough to keep Kilroy calm and hopefully to bite his tongue on being more of a crybaby.*

“At least… he’s something you still have here, right?”

*He tried to say something optimistic, considering how much Roman had lost.*

“He is yes. Honestly I don’t know what I would do without his support…don’t tell him that he has a big enough ego.”

*He gave a hearty cackle.*

“Really? I don’t know I think you can be a good boss.” *his arm flew up and he frowned taking it down*

“Mask!” *his eyes squeezed closed and he put a hand over his mouth trying to calm himself down*

@mr-david-li

You’re doing great, sir. V-Very good. Just hang on, Roman.

It felt agonizingly long, but eventually, the elevator dinged, and the doors opened.

Li ran ahead to open the double doors for the man.

We’re here. Let’s go. Let it out in here.

Li focused his attention on the mask, examining the fracture in it and how it could be repaired. He knew regardless it would never be the same level of antiquity.

He looked up. Kilroy would be very sad about his desk. That thing meant so much to him. Where was Kilroy? Gosh, they left him behind, didn’t they?

He approached the scene, keeping a wide distance from Roman, until he was in his line of sight.

Be careful of the splinters, sir.

Li didn’t fear being hit, and didn’t recoil at the sight of his raised fists, even if he should have.

I know this is very hard for you, sir. None of us wanted this, or could have predicted it.

…Do you need something else to break?

I’ll find a replacement for the desk…

Why don’t you take a seat on the couch?

Is there anything besides something else to break that I can get you? Any pain anywhere? I can get a drink or an ice pack.

He walked past him to the lounging area, knowing that he could be hit if he came closer.

Thank you.

He acknowledged as he sat down. He sighed and walked towards the door to get what he asked for, when he paused.

You think so?

He obviously agreed, but he didn’t expect Roman to think of it so soon. He took off his glasses to rub his eyes. He couldn’t be in two places at once.

I can page him to see if he’ll come back upstairs… If he doesn’t… Well, that’s not something you should worry about, sir. I will handle it.

He said, very unconvincingly.

*He closed his eyes it felt like his heart was slowing down* “yes. I-I’m sorry just stupid I didn’t mean to get so upset.” *Ig just bubbles over* “hm.”

I understand, sir. It’s not your fault at all. You had every reason to be upset.

You stay there. I’ll get your coffee… a-and put this down.

He lifted the mask to emphasis it.

Of course, sir. It is my honor.

He stepped outside, and the sound of his dress shoes echoed down the hall.

Li sighed.

He’s not answering…

He mumbled to himself.

Li put his pager away, seeing that it was not working to get Kilroy back. He decided to focus on the coffee. He went to the machine in his office and started dispensing the coffee into a mug.

He looked at the mask, setting the two halves on his desk. In all these years, Roman never had broken a mask.

…Roman’s phone buzzed with a call.

*He sighed but growled and picked up the phone from his pocket* “Roman speaking. What ya want?”

"R-Roman?"

*Kilroy sniffled from the other end.*

"I-I'm s-so sorry. I d-didn't know it would d-do that. I w-would n-never want to b-break your m-mask. I-I'm so sorry. Y-You must f-feel awful."

“Kilroy…look it’s fine.” *He groans* “It was not the rarest mask I…I am upset to have it broken but I don’t blame you.” *He rubbed his head and closed his eyes*

"I-I know h-how m-much it m-means t-to you. C-Can I find you a n-new one? Piece it b-back together?"

*He knew he was bothering him. He should have just left the office, maybe go to a bar. That would be escaping responsibility, though.*

“Kilroy no it’s okay. It’s a wood fossil mask they make the them custom I have a guy.” *He gagged a bit his head throbbed to much*

"Y-You have a g-guy- W-What was that? Are you ok? Are you sick? Are you throwing up?!"

*Kilroy seemed to panic at that.*

“My head just hurts…” *He sighed* “I got really angry. My head is throbbing.”

"O-Oh. I s-see."

*His voice was a little louder, suggesting that he got closer to the microphone as he gripped the phone tighter.*

"I t-thought you would be. That's ok. You really should be angry. I'm sorry about your head though. C-Can I help?"

“I would be if I could. You’ll probably be mad at me l slammed your desk and broke the table…”

*He was quiet for a while.*

"...My desk?"

*There were some sounds of fabric rubbing against itself as Kilroy readjusted.*

"W-What... What about all the things inside it?"

“I don’t know.” *He waited for a reaction though he felt like he was going to pass out his leg kicked in the couch and he huffed*

"O-Ok. I'll... I'll c-come up and see."

"I d-don't want Li to talk to me, though."

“Can he at least come in to give me pain pills?” *He mumbled to Kilroy if he wasn’t in so much pain he’d wonder why and maybe defend li talking with him*

"O-Of course... Of course, Roman."

*He was relieved to hear that he would take medicine like that, and not just tough it out. As such, his response was more toned about that, rather than about letting Li in.*

"I... um... I h-hope it helps."

*He nodded not that Kilroy could see it*

"A-Alright, I'll um... get up there. Stay there. A-And I can stay on the p-phone in c-case something happens, if y-you'd like, o-or... or w-whatever you need."

*There were the sounds of him rustling out from under the table. At that time, there was the soft knock of Li back on the double doors, to signal his entrance back with the supplies.*

“Come in if you have pill.” *He groaned this was just about the worst episode he had in a while*

Li stepped in with a tray, which he planned to put on the coffee table, but then realized.

Ah...

He set it on the cushions of another couch and came over to Roman with the pain relievers in one hand and the coffee mug in his other.

Here you are, sir.

*He moved putting the pill in his mouth chewing* “thank you Li and Kilroy doesn’t want to talk to you. I can talk to him if he’s not upset about his desk.” *He slowly sat up and took the mug*

The man paused and furrowed his brow. He didn't realize why Kilroy would seemingly be upset at him.

Oh... Alright.

He shook the confusion off and readjusted his glasses.

Is the coffee to your liking? Would you care for sugar or cream?

“No no I just need something to put my head back on.” *He gulp half the mug then sighed* “great.”

He nodded and gave a small smile to see him taking care of himself, even if in an extreme manner.

You talked to Kilroy then, I realize?

“I mumbled some things to Kilroy. Really I just told him about the desk and listened to him.”

Hm... That's good, of course, since I couldn't go down to see him. I assume he's coming up then?... And he doesn't want me here.

Let me make sure you're all set before I can leave you alone. I don't want you in any sort of danger.

“I’m not in danger what you think he’s going to go off the handle and stab me?” *He thought for a moment* “He may stab me you should have a med kit on hand.”

He's not going to stab you... But, I'll bring a kit in case he hurts himself. I'll be right outside, ok? I... could keep him away, if you'd rather just rest.

He held his hands out, first to make sure Roman wasn't hurt and going to fall over. Perhaps he'd gotten too used to Kilroy's fragility.

He took the card, looking it over, before tucking it in his suit. He nodded.

Will do, sir. I shall see you later then. I'll work on the mask.

He gestured for him to head out the door.

*He nodded and moved to his room to get another mask he couldn’t help noticing how valuable he was without it*

*Li left as Roman went to get ready. It was a while later before the hinges of the double doors creaked again, supposedly as Kilroy was coming in.*

*He was still looking through his chest looking through all of them one of his masks breaking made him very…uncomfortable?*

*He looked over them picking a metal mask he had gotten it as a working project to see which metal would be best for his face he clicked it on and stood coming out*

“…” *He moved and sat by him* “I’m sorry.” *He huffed* “look I can get you a desk that looks exactly like this one. I shouldn’t have taken my anger out on your things.”

*He moved hugging him to the side* “of course. We should get you a safe for all of your…Roman stuff.”

"I-I hadn't thought of that. I want to do that."

*He croaked out, his voice sounding hoarse now. He said it as a statement, but really he was asking the man, like as if he wasn't allowed to have or to want that unless he said so.*

“Really? Yes. We can do that heavy duty stuff…something I can’t break.” *His hand twitched and rubbed Kilroys arm* “I am still so sorry.”

*Kilroy certainly liked the physical affirmation.*

"I know you are. It's n-not your fault. It's mine. With my stupid gun."

*He planned now to scrap it after this. He didn't care if it worked. He wanted it gone. He huffed, exhaling his irrationality.*

"I'm really sorry about your m-mask."

*He reached up with his looser arm in the hug to touch Roman's hand that had twitched.*

“No it’s okay I get to have another one. It was wood basically nothing to go.” *He let him touch not minding much* “the gun was cool.”

"Y-Yeah? I just... I've n-never hurt one of R-Roman's masks b-before. I-It's one of the w-worst things I c-could do. I already l-let h-him d-die on m-me. N-Now this? I s-shouldn't b-be here."

*His voice pitched, and his skin felt hot to himself, getting pink in the heat of the emotion.*

"I'll have it dismantled."

*He treated his machines like dogs. If they bit someone, they got put down.*

"T-Thank you, f-for giving me another c-chance. I k-know I k-keep messing up. That's... why I didn't want Li to come in here. He doesn't like when I cry."

*He took a deep breath.*

"I guess I invest my emotions in things t-too much. But, I get very sad, n-not angry."

*He smiled and nudged him a bit. Of course, he didn't mean the debilitating parts of it. More... his bluntness. His steadfastness in situations. His dry humor.*

“You think so?” *he thought about it and couldn’t see his anger as a positive reaction except maybe when he was hurting people*

*He giggled, making his previous tears glimmer in the light.*

"Oh, yeah! You show people their place. You make... things less scary, by being the strongest thing in the room."

“Ha you think I’m the strongest thing in the room?” *he laughed more at that*

*He felt all coy, giddy by Roman's laugh.*

"I'd bet my life on it."

*He tucked his head into his shoulders more and got a little softer in his voice.*

*He tilted his head to him, as though still admiring his strength and charisma while listening to the man deny it.*

“You act perfectly. They must be brain dead o-or severely misguided. You’re the best person on the planet.”

*He slow blinked for only a moment, seemingly taking in how nice that statement felt.*

“Even the people you kill. Their last thought should be, ‘wow.’ That was mine, at least.”

“Wow? Hm mostly I think it’s screaming for mercy or whatever there life was like before.”

*That… did make sense…*

“Well, at least they think of you as godly, having to beg to you. That’s closer to the truth.”

*He shrugged, and leaned closer against him, smelling his cologne and feeling the heat of his body.*

“I’ve never seen someone who hurts like you do.”

“Now that’s a compliment.” *His leg jumped and he sighed* “I’ve never seen someone with ideas like you.”

*That made his breath hitch. He didn’t expect Roman to compliment him for anything.*

“N-No? G-Gosh… uh… T-Thank you, Roman.”

*He compulsively tapped at the man, feeling so happy and honored, that his brain felt the need to count to not lose the feeling.*

“Of course it’s the least I can do for you right now…” *He looked at all the memories that Cain had in his arms. Things he could have destroyed from having that outburst*

*The excitement of their discussion nearly had him forget his distress. He followed his gaze to the items, which he was still holding so tightly. He slouched and let the papers be seen in his lap.*

“You two are very special to me. I-… He made me feel so… just… happy. It gave me a reason to live.”

*He felt a need to - poorly - explain, rather than realize Roman was feeling guilty.*

“I’m glad he did. I just I wasn’t thinking when I came in here slamming things over.”

“Oh…”

*He glanced more at the wood splinters they were sitting around.*

“…you’re in my head huh?” *He asked mainly hoping he wasn’t going as soft as he thought he was when it came to this whole situation*

*His eyes widened a bit.*

“N-No- I m-mean… No… Not really. I can only catches glimpses. Trust me, most of this is just me knowing you.”

*He put his hand on the man’s thigh and smiled.*

“It’s an unfair advantage, I’m aware. I know I don’t know you, I just… know your memories. And I… I wish I could be there to help you feel better.”

*He looked into his eyes, able to tell he was thinking about something, though he couldn’t tell what.*

“It’s okay. Really I don’t mind all that much.” *He smiled god he’d reader him a new desk and whatever else he’d need to make this right.”

*He sighed.*

“You push through too much. You’re a sweetheart.”

*His smile made him utterly relaxed, disregarding anything and everything of the day.*

“Can I… give you a full hug? T-To move past this whole thing, for both of us.”

“Sure. To move past this.” *He moved and gently hugged him trying his best not to squeeze too hard or twitch and snap something*

“T-Thank you.”

“…What mask is this, now?”

“It’s a aluminum mask model. It can be modified easily and it’s very cheap but I got it to test out the material.”

*That made him perk up. He giggled.*

“Ah, now we match. I like it. It suits you well.”

“You think so? I liked how chill it feels.” *He tapped it a bit* “it’s a good sound too.”

*He shyly offered. He moved in the hug to catch a glance at Roman’s mask.*

“Maybe. I would like your input I’m sure.” *the mask shined and shifted in the light it was a contrast to his deep dull eyes*

*He gave a big, toothy grin to that.*

"Thank you! I think this could be a fun project- i-if I'm not intruding on your artistic methods, o-of course."

*He darted his eyes around the metal, trying to make guesses to the alloy composition and how it was shaped.*

"It's beautiful..."

“No no you wouldn’t be.” *He nodded jerking his head a bit* “the mask? Yes. Sometimes simple is better.”

"Y-Yes, the mask. Mm, I agree. It leaves a lot more up to interpretation. More room for artistic liberty in the audience... or perhaps your opponent."

*He made note of his jerking, trying to settle himself softer on Roman's body to maybe put him at ease.*

"I'm sorry, am I staring too much?"

“Half my opponent are simple. Nothing to them and no great advantage.” *He shook his head* “no I don’t mind you looking.”

*He softened his expression to his denial.*

"I'm glad. I just... worried I made you nervous... since you twitched."

“Oh. Sometimes my body just twitch’s it’s no big deal. You don’t have to worry about it.” *Nervous. Please as if he’d ever be nervous…*

"Oh, alright. I just... You were twitching a lot when your mask... broke."

“Yeah…yeah my brain was trying to shut itself down. Too much anger and well sadness.”

"I see... You know yourself very well."

*Even though his words were very casual, his expression got very disheartened. He didn't mean to give Roman so much discomfort. And this proved to him that he did feel such emotions.*

"I... didn't think anyone in the warehouse saw you, if that makes you feel better."

“I know that doctors are idiots and my parents were worse.” *He glares a bit at memories before he shook his head* “That’s good though.”

*He stiffened at his resentful hiss.*

"Y-Yeah. T-They were... I wish someone could help you, Roman. I don't want you to hurt like this."

*He didn't seem aware of Li's plans to kidnap that doctor for the man.*

*He tried to hug him again, even if he was in danger of getting hit by his twitches.*

"I-I know... But, I do care. U-Unless it makes you feel worse, if I do. I just... It makes me sad. I know it shouldn't, but I just wish I could... hold you like this, and let you relax."

*He wished he could tell himself to stop making a big deal about this. It was making Roman feel worse about it, he was sure.*

"Y-Yeah? I-I'm g-glad - very glad - it doesn't m-make it worse."

*He sighed, resting his chin on his shoulder.*

"That's a good way to describe it. But I feel like sometimes it's like asthma for you."

“…hm” *His hands slammed to the floor* “asthma.”

*He grimaced at the velocity of the strike, darting his hand to look his over for redness.*

"Y-Yeah. Asthma. It's livable... but a little different or hard for you."

“That does make sense.” *He fixes his suit*

"Yeah? It does? That's good, I imagine, right? N-Not... that it feels that way. Just that... it's an analogy that fits."

*He watched him fidget, still hanging onto him.*

"Are you thinking about it very hard?"

*He made a guess to what his business partner was fixated on.*

“That and the new lipstick, getting a new mask.” *It was a mixed bag up there but his thoughts did move slow from one topic to another*

"Mm, yeah?"

"Would writing it down help?"

*He blinked, confused... surprised... at what he was seeing. He lowered his head with a quiet smile and faint blush and reached for the journal.*

"Let me help you. Where's the next empty page?"

“Yes…uh yes. It should be after five pages.” *He blinked rapidly*

"Wonderful. Thank you."

*His gratitude likely extended subtly to the idea of being sketched, as well. He lightly flipped through the journal for him, landing on the empty page to slide the man's thumb back onto.*

"You have a pen?"

“Yes.” *He moved tapping his suit and gave it to him. It was a nice gel pen*

"Ah, thank you. This is a good pen. I bet it writes smooth... You... want me to write it? Or would you rather do that?"

*He smiled a bit at the fact that he gave it to him, instead of using it.*

“Hm you should write I’m a bit jumpy right now.” *He sighed and moved to sit on his hands a old trick he used we he was little*

“Sure thing, Roman. Take your time.”

*He lifted his knee up to hold the journal to and opened the pen.*

*He watched him sit on his hands. He knew he was likely shy about the gesture, but he was personally happy that Roman knew something that worked for him, even if it came from a place of desperation.*

“O-Oh, wow. Fossilized wood…”

“…that’s an idea. Write it down.” *He nodded which turned into a jerk* “I’m sure Li could get a mask…I had my old mask seller he knew I was good for his best. I know him for a while.”

“Of course. Wilco.”

*He took the command and scribbled that in the growing notes section. He dotted a period and looked back up at Roman, more sympathetically.*

“Yeah? I’m sorry that you don’t have your seller here. That must be quite frustrating to lose.”

“Oh it is. I have to make a whole new profile with this guy it’s painstakingly hard.”

“Gosh. I’m sorry. I wish there was a way to expedite that for you. I’m sure you’re a good enough client that it should figure out.”

*He patted his shoulder.*

“He should figure it out! God half the time his information is wrong can you believe that?! He’s the only asshole that has good suggestions of masks and art and he’s a dumbass!”

“Oh- Jesus… That is awful.”

*He was glad Roman was letting his frustration out here, instead of letting it build, even if it didn’t take away the situation itself.*

“Maybe that lets you pull the wool over him easier on deals?”

“Hm. I do it doesn’t change his prices.”

“Ah, dang it. I just… don’t want this making your blood pressure go up. It’s not worth it.”

*He softly brushed his claw against Roman’s chest, above his heart.*

“Could he be persuaded through… other means?”

*Kilroy meant to suggest perhaps threatening the man.*

*He smiled then laughed loudly and rapidly* “per-Ha-persuade him?” *He continued to laugh* “look I’m open minded to most things but I don’t think that would work.”

*He leaned back to let the booming sound not hurt his ears. He blinked and darted his eyes around Roman, to figure out how awful his suggestion was.*

“N-No? I suppose if he’s that dense, it probably wouldn’t work anyway.”

*Even if Kilroy had said something so silly, maybe it’d taken Roman’s mind off being frustrated.*

*He continued laughing until it turned quiet.* “no I don’t think it would work.” *He let his face drop and relaxed*

“Glad I gave you a good laugh, at least. So… That’s item one on your list. Should I write down the next one?”

*He patted his shoulder and rubbed his arm.*

*His suit was a high quality feel it was tight and smooth* “I think I’ve got it.” *He moved to get back his journal*

“Ah- I’m glad to hear it.”

*He winked and handed him back the pen and journal. The comforting sensation of his luxury suit would always stay in his mind.*

*He moved to write his writing was a bit more messy and as he wrote his hand jerked and scribbled*

*He smiled the whole way through, hoping that maybe that would help him tremor less.*

“You uh… I liked your drawing, b-by the way.”

*He gave a quick glance to him* “…thank you.” *He cleared his throat* “I was half asleep really.”

"Yeah? Even more impressive then... drawing when you're tired."

*Internally, that made him even more giddy to think that Roman thought about him in those quiet moments, alone, and peaceful.*

“Maybe…it mainly my mind being forced to shut down so my body stops moving.”

"Ah, I see."

*He nodded along.*

"...Yet, I'd say you drew me quite perfectly. I hope you didn't have to work through pain to accomplish it."

“No not at all just some sleepiness.” *He fixed at his mask blushing a bit* “you have an easy profile.”

"I'm relieved to hear that-"

*He paused and tilted his head.*

"...Oh?"

“Uh huh. I learned to draw for Janus so I have to say it’s easier profile than most along with the mask.”

"You did? Wow... I'm... Wow. Ha! I'm impressed."

*He was at a loss for words at that fact. He felt down the face of his mask. It was quite a straight line, all things considered.*

"I'm glad I could be simple for your talented hands."

*He nodded he was writing his list of now a container for the new lipstick. His watch beeped a tiny toon* “I’m not that good Kilroy.” *He stopped his watch*

*He chuckled at the modesty.*

"I suppose we'll have to agree to disagree... What's the beeping for?"

*His eyes widened at that.*

"A-Are you sure? That seems important. I-It shouldn't take that long, right? We can finish your notes after..."

*Crap. Maybe that's what would explain his slowing down. Maybe his heart was going too fast.*

“No it’s fine. If I pass out my body will fix itself….” *His hand jerked and a thick line flew across his drawing. He frowned though it was not seen* “fuck.”

"Roman..."

*He hummed with almost an admonishing tone.*

"Do you take medication for it? I can go get it while you keep drawing. I-I can check your pulse..."

*To be honest, he didn't really know how to do that, but he supposed if his heart was racing, he could feel that.*

"I don't mean to embarrass you. I want you to be safe. That matters to me. Let's go to the couch. Are the things you need to check it in the bedroom?"

*He cared so much so, that he temporarily left the items he was trying to rescue from the broken desk on the ground.*

“They’re in the bedroom yes if that will get you to stop being a lap dog Jesus.” *It seemed his guilt about the desk was wearing off too with all the touching and such*

*He let go of him.*

"That is what I'm best at being."

*He would've preferred to walk him to the couch, but maybe if he ran to the bedroom quick enough, he could appease Roman's desire to not be patronized.*

"I'll be back."

*He nodded and moved to the couch and looked to the smashed table sighing*

*Kilroy ran into the bedroom, as fast as he could go, darting around to look for these supplies. He checked his nightstand, assuming it would be there.*

*There was a drawer slightly open it had an arm pressure cuff and a finger pressure sensor* “uh god.” *Roman frowned and huffed*

*He quickly opened the drawer fully to take the things out, and wanted to turn and run, but got stuck in a compulsion of opening and closing the drawer a few times.*

"Come on. Come on."

*He silently cursed himself and finished up as soon as he could, racing back to the lounging area.*

"I-I'm h-here!"

*he was laying back on the couch with his eyes closed* “yes? Okay let’s get this over with.” *He sat up*

*He flinched, worried that getting up too quickly would get him lightheaded, as it did for himself.*

"R-Right. Ok. I suppose I'll just slip this on your arm... and this on your finger, and we let the machine do it's thing, right?"

*He narrated as he fumbled with the cuff and pressure sensor to get it on him.*

“Yep.” *He moved to help him put the cuff onto his own arm* “nothing to worry over I’m sure this will read and it’ll be normal.”

*He nodded as a quiet thank you for the assistance and scooted the cuff up as high as he could get it on his arm. He then clipped the finger sensor on, and sat on the couch next to him.*

"I-I'm sure it will be... Thank you for letting me do it for you."

*He had his doubts, especially if Roman was jinxing it.*

“I knew you wouldn’t have dropped it unless I did what you asked.” *The pressure cuff extends a bit making a simple sound and the finger clip takes its time too*

*He gave a nervous grimace.*

"T-That's true. I wouldn't..."

*His voice caught him out of his spiraling. He blushed.*

"O-Oh. S-Sorry. Sorry..."

*He leaned over to read it too.*

"W-What does that mean? I-Is that g-good? Is it t-too high?"

*He squeaked. He wished he knew more medical information. But the fact that both sensors told the same results made him sure that whatever the answer was, it was accurate.*

“It’s high but that’s just about normal for me…counting the episode I had I say I’m fine. Here get me a sugars free soda and whatever you want to drink.”

"R-Right, yeah. That d-does m-make sense."

*He looked towards the broken table...*

"Roger! I-I'll go get that."

*He bounced up like a rocket and fled over to the fridge to get him the soda. He surprisingly got himself a water and came back over to give it to him.*

"I h-hope this h-helps."

*He sat down next to him and rocked back and forth, trying to slow down and relax. Roman said he was fine. We trust that. We should, at least.*

*He watched him relax. He hardly ever got to see him attempt such a thing. So, it was fascinating to watch... and made him caught off guard by the question.*

"O-Oh-"

*Gosh, it had been such a whirlwind of a day, he nearly forgot about the fiasco with his suit buttons.*

"W-Well, I... It was alright. I woke up later than I'd like to. S-So, I rushed to get ready. I suppose it was just... an anxious day. There's... always a lot going on at home, s-so..."

*He nervously scratched an itch on his arm. He took a deep breath.*

"I came to work as quick as I could. Last night, I did some inventing, though."

*He thought that would interest Roman more than his boring, miserable day.*

“Inventing? Yeah? What did you make?” *His clip went down by one*

*He watched it tick... He was somewhat flattered. He took another deep breath. Relax, Kilroy. It wasn't that bad of a day. You're overreacting. You're still coming down from worrying about him.*

"I'm sorry. I'm ok... I was working on... something for the office."

*He squinted. His memory seemed poor.*

"Oh, I think it was... some sort of better communication device for the staff. Easier than Li having to mumble under his breath so nobody can hear him."

“That’s good.” *he nodded to him as he took off his cuff* “i think Li would like that so when he got angry he doesn’t have to whisper shout.”

"Thank you. Heh, yeah, I'm sure he'd prefer not to hide like that."

*He suddenly remembered the water in his hands and opened it to take a sip, hopefully to remove his remaining anxiety.*

"I thought that maybe it could help things run smoothly around here... but intel only gets you so far. At the end of the day, if nobody knows what to do with it, it's pointless anyway."

*He sighed and leaned back into the couch. He turned his head to Roman.*

"What about your day?"

*He wrung his hands around his water bottle as he listened. He smirked.*

“C-Certainly a more productive morning than m-mine! It uh… sounds peaceful. T-Thank you for being here, taking care of things before I show up late everyday.”

“Of course. I mean I’m a door away from work so I don’t really have an excuse to be late.” *He chuckled a bit his heart rate had dropped slightly to a more normal level*

*He smiled more broadly. He liked seeing the man in a good mood… Especially after he’d pestered him so much today.*

“F-Fair point! You seem to have a good schedule. It sounds like it fits you nicely… Good, straightforward routine… Even got a little time to workout. That’s really great, Roman.”

*He took a breath.*

“I must be a cannonball in your day. All over the goddamn place. I’m sorry for making things so complicated.”

“Hm actually no. You have some good ideas different ways of thinking it’s good for business.”

“Y-Yeah? I p-promise I’m not fishing for compliments or anything… I just don’t ever want to get in your way.”

*He was relieved to hear that Roman didn’t think that way about him… Now, just to remove that feeling. He reached out to tap at Roman’s soda.*

“T-Thank you for being so patient with me.”

*He nodded* “it’s not that hard. I have to deal with people who test my patience every day.”

*He gave a weak smirk, more bittersweet than anything.*

“R-Right. You’re very resilient to deal with that all the time. I… have a question. Would you mind if I asked it? Does… Li make you feel better when you’re angry?”

*He looked to him* “I’d say so…I mean he knows what to do. He’s got ways to stop my episodes and all that crap.”

“Oh yeah? T-That’s great, obviously. You two have known each other for a while.”

*the mask left much to the imagination with only his eyes and part of his lips showing* “we have yes. He’s a good man and a better assistant.”

*Yet it was just enough to keep Kilroy calm and hopefully to bite his tongue on being more of a crybaby.*

“At least… he’s something you still have here, right?”

*He tried to say something optimistic, considering how much Roman had lost.*