Archive of Our Own ^beta

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“OJ Apartments” is an Inanimate Insanity AU where instead of running a hotel, OJ runs an apartment where the contestants get to live after the show. Whether it be with their friends, partners, or family, it’s all up for me to decide! *Maniacal laughter*. Honestly this is all written because I like making characters I like into parents. I always think it's really adorable. A lot of original characters will be included! Sometimes it’ll be family of existing characters, sometimes it’ll be partners.

Here's the layout for OJ Apartments:

There are 4 floors with 7 units each, contestants get to choose 1 or 2 people to room with making a maximum of 3 residents per apartment with a few exceptions. There is a lobby and a pool that has since been closed down. So… who lives where? And with whom?

Floor 1:

Room 101 - OJ + Paper

Room 102 - Apple + Marshmallow

Room 103 - Salt + Pepper

Room 104 - Balloon + Suitcase

Room 105 - Knife + Exacto

Room 106 - 

Room 107 - Trophy  + Medal

Floor 2:

Room 201 - YinYang + Cotton

Room 202 - 

Room 203 - Pickle + Bomb

Room 204 - TestTube + Paintbrush + Fan + Lightbulb

Room 205 - Goo + Bot

Room 206 - Microphone + Taco

Room 207 - 

Floor 3:

Room 301 - Nickel + Baseball + Bracelet + Bead

Room 302 - 

Room 303 - Lifering + Tea Kettle

Room 304 - Box

Room 305 - Candle 

Room 306 - Cherries + Cheesy

Room 307 - 

Floor 4:

Room 401 - Silver Spoon

Room 402 - Soap + Clover

Room 403 - Tissues + Thermometer

Room 404 - 

Room 405 - Mephone4S + Mp3

Room 406 - Cabby

Room 407 - Blueberry + Locket

This list will continue to update as characters are added.

Chapter Text

YinYang was holding Cotton’s hand as they approached the OJ Apartments. Cotton was a little nervous about meeting so many new people, especially since they just got adopted by the twins that were now leading them to the large building. Yin looked over at Cotton as they walked “Don’t worry, I’m sure everyone is going to love you” he reassured them. Yang decided to chime in “No! Everyone will hate them.” “You know that’s not true Yang!” Cotton tried to hope that what Yin said was true as the door opened. OJ, of course, was right there to greet their new resident. “Hi! Welcome to the OJ Apartments! I’m OJ, what’s your name?” He asked, and Cotton immediately felt quite out of place. “Oh. My name is Cotton. N-Nice to meet you sir.” They stuttered. OJ smiled and stepped aside to let the trio enter the hotel. Cotton felt as if everyone’s eyes were on them, even though there weren’t many people in the lobby. They were too nervous to approach anyone but a few were quite open to introducing themselves. First, Cotton met Paper. A kind soul who seemed to be quite close to OJ. Then, Pickle introduced himself, followed by his friend Knife. They both seemed very nice, though Knife was a little grumpy. After that, Cotton was surprised by a big hug given to them by Lightbulb, she seemed to be kind with her intentions but admittedly the sudden hug made Cotton panic. And just before YinYang was going to show Cotton to their room, another object showed themself. A silver coin with a rude tone “Woah! YinYang you two have a kid!?” A long pause belated the conversation. “Be quiet, Nickel.” Yang said, breaking the silence. “Well, we just adopted them, this is our daughter, Cotton,” Yin mentioned as he motioned to them. Cotton sheepishly waved at Nickel who still seemed confused. “That’s really weird-” Nickel said, “We’re just sharing custody over Cotton. We’re sort of like both the dad and the uncle at the same time” Yin explained. Nickel thought for a moment “So… Dunkle?” Cotton smiled and snickered at the nickname, YinYang were not very impressed. Cotton then looked up at the two with a smile “I kind of like it!” She said and Yin was quick to accept it, but Yang remained grumpy. Nickel looked between Cotton and YinYang “Are you guys sure that this is a good idea? I mean, you’re taking care of a child. You know, like a living breathing being.” Yang groaned “Yes! We’ll be fine. We know how to take care of a damn child.” Nickel rolled his eyes “Alright, whatever you say.” He then left the trio. 

Cotton heard OJ scolding Nickel in the next room.

YinYang took Cotton up the elevator to show them to their apartment. It was a nice place, fit with two bedrooms- one with a queen sized bed and one with a twin sized bed-, a bathroom, a small kitchen area, and a small living room featuring a couch with a fold out mattress. The entire place was plainly decorated but Cotton was sure to change that very soon. Especially their bedroom. They liked making their own space to show off their personality, and they were already daydreaming of fairy lights and stuffed animals. YinYang smiled as they watched their new child excitedly run to their bed to lay down “Oh this is so nice! The covers are soooo soft and cozy!” They giggled. “Are you getting hungry? Because I am.” Yang mentioned and Cotton sprang up from their bed “Yes!” 

The trio made it to the lobby kitchen, where Suitcase and Balloon were talking. It was more common for residents to go to the lobby kitchen than the one provided in each room as it was always stocked up with food, and people like to socialize there. Cotton held YinYang’s hand as they approached the duo. “Uh, hello” Cotton said, catching Suitcase and Balloon’s attention. “Oh! Hey there kid” Balloon said, smiling at them. “Hi! Are you YinYang’s new kid?” Suitcase asked and Cotton nodded, tightening their grip on YinYang’s hand. “How adorable! It’s so nice to meet you. What’s your name?” Suitcase continued “Uh, Cotton” They responded. Talking with Suitcase and Balloon was nice, and YinYang prepared Cotton a ham and cheese sandwich. For once, Yang seemed to cooperate for the most part, though he did briefly try and drown the poor sandwich in mayonnaise. YinYang offered the sandwich to their daughter once it was finished and they happily ate it. YinYang then made themselves a sandwich and the quintet of objects continued to make small talk. After that, YinYang stuck by Cotton’s side as they then went on to explore the apartment, meeting more people and seeing all that the building had to offer. By the end of Cotton’s search, it was getting a little late, and Yin decided it would be a good idea to go to bed a little bit earlier today than usual. Cotton didn’t complain, but Yang argued. 

The next morning, YinYang woke up to Cotton shaking them. “Good morning dunkles!” She said, giggling. If it were anyone else to wake them up, Yang would be quite angry, but since it was Cotton he seemed to be more calm. The twins sat up and Yin smiled at Cotton. “Good morning.” The three went to get breakfast together in the kitchen, where Paintbrush was making themself some scrambled eggs. This led to the twins fighting over whether they should make scrambled eggs or sunny side up eggs. Paintbrush yelled at them for arguing not too long before noticing Cotton. They immediately calmed down and smiled “Hello, are you new here?” Cotton smiled a little in return “Yeah, I’m Cotton. YinYang’s new kid.” Paintbrush’s eyebrows raised when they heard that. They tried to calm themself as they plate their scrambled eggs. “Why does nobody tell me anything around here!?” They yelled before taking a deep breath and turning off the stove. They look over at YinYang “There are some eggs left over if you want any.” Yang smiled, yes! Scrambled eggs! The twins got themselves and Cotton eggs as she and Paintbrush sat down at the dining room table. “So, YinYang adopted you?” They asked, “Yeah, they’ve been nice so far.” Paintbrush laughed a little. “Boy, imagine Yang being nice.” They joked. “I'm Paintbrush, by the way. I go by they/them pronouns.” Cotton was surprised “Wow, really? I do too!”

Chapter Text

Knife was taking a walk around the nearby forest. He needed to clear his mind every now and then so he took walks to take in the sights and get some fresh air. It had been a pretty stressful day, starting off the morning by immediately getting himself into a fight with Trophy, and promptly getting scolded by OJ. Not even Trophy’s little roomie Medal could intervene, which he usually did to stop their arguments. That guy normally did a pretty good job at calming down Trophy, but today was just not their day. Knife supposed. He continued looking around the forest until he spotted something shiny. Figuring it was just a wrapper, he walked over to pick it up. However, what he found wasn't a wrapper, rather what he saw was simply just the tip of a blade, and what he found was a kid. All on his own, crying as he laid in the dirt. Now, Knife wasn’t usually the type to help others. He normally kept to his own demons and stayed out of other people’s business. But this time, he felt a tug at his heartstrings. He needed to help. “Hey kid, you ok?”  He asked as he knelt down beside the boy. He gasped out of surprise as he looked over at Knife. He quickly sat up and wiped his tears “Y-Yeah” he stuttered as his voice cracked, making him wince at how pathetic he sounded. “Here, what’s your name?” Knife asked as he helped the kid off the ground “Uh, Exacto.” 

After a bit of comforting and talking, Knife began to lead Exacto to the OJ Apartments. They agreed that Exacto would stay in Knife’s apartment with him for the night since he had the extra space. Once the two got there, Knife was quick to find OJ and explain the situation to him. He felt like the landlord should at least know that he was taking care of some kid he found in the forest. After that, the duo went straight to Knife’s room so that Exacto could get himself cleaned up in the shower while a fresh set of clothes waited for Exacto. They might be a bit big on the teen, but he supposed it would do for now. Knife was already gone to get some food for him and Exacto by the time the kid was done showering. Exacto got dressed and looked around the decorated apartment, examining the posters, cds, and other miscellaneous things Knife owned. Exacto heard a knock at the apartment door “Oh- come in!” He yelled and in came Knife with food for him and Exacto to share. They ate in mostly silence. Not quite knowing what to say to each other. And when they were done, Knife had to ask, “Why were you out there?” Exacto was surprised at the sudden question and responded with simply, “I ran from home..” Knife could tell the teen didn’t want to talk about it further, so he didn’t continue. Knife then thought of something “You can stay here for longer if you want. I’m sure no one would mind.” Exatco’s eyes widened as he looked over at Knife “Wait.. Really?” He smiled. “I mean, yeah, I may not be the most responsible person here but I can take care of you if you need it.” Exacto felt as if he’d cry again, “Like… like a dad?” He didn’t know why he said that, or how he expected Knife to react to his question. But he surely wasn't anticipating a hug. Knife wasn’t very affectionate most of the time, he certainly appeared that way, so it was a welcome surprise to get a hug from him. The two stayed like that for a while until Exacto calmed down enough. “It’s going to be alright..”

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Medal and Trophy have been friends for a while. And ever since Trophy asked Medal to stay with him at OJ Apartments they haven’t left each other's sides. And that’s exactly what led Trophy to be in Fan’s room, sitting at his desk with a single light shining down on them, the rest of the room shrouded in darkness. Fan leaned his elbows onto the desk, placing his hands to his face. Fan stared at Trophy for a while, until he finally spoke up. “I know you’re gay”  was all Fan said as Trophy stared at him in horror. “I- uhh, I have no idea what you’re talking about.” Trophy said, trying to keep up his tough guy act, but Fan wasn’t buying it. Suddenly, Fan’s face lit up and he nearly shouted, “It’s Medal! Isn’t it?” Causing Trophy to choke on air. “Not so loud dude!! But.. yeah, I guess he’s a little cute. So what?” Fan nearly squealed as he kicked his legs. “So what? So What!? Trophy this is super important!” “And… why is that?” “Because it adds so much to your character development!” Trophy was silent for a moment. “What?” Fan blinked “Uhh, I mean, Medal likes you too you know!” Trophy’s eyes widened and his jaw nearly dropped when Fan said that. Medal… liked him back? “I feel like I shouldn’t be hearing this from you..” Trophy muttered just loud enough for Fan to hear. “But you needed the push! Who knows how long it would have taken you two to figure it out if I hadn’t intervened.” Fan seemed to take a lot of pride in himself for that. Trophy stood up from the chair he was in “I think… I think I’m going to go now. Just don't tell anyone about this” Fan smiled “Ok! But you should go tell Medal yourself!” Yeah, great idea Fan. Maybe you should have left it to Medal to tell Trophy about his own feelings but whatever. It’s already been said and done. Trophy flipped on the lightswitch which caused Fan to jump and stumble out of his chair. Trophy left Fan’s shared apartment pretty quickly. 

Trophy the flopped onto the bed in his own room, thinking nonstop about Medal. Did he really like him? He blushed as he imagined him and Medal holding hands, like a couple. But, Trophy was scared. Him and Medal had been friends for so long, just friends. What if Fan was lying and he ruined all that he had with Medal? Medal, the shining gold coin attached to a beautiful blue ribbon, who had stolen Trophy’s heart and easily brought out the best in him. Medal calmed him down when he fought with the other residents, scolded him for being rude. He even… praised Trophy when he held back mean comments or stopped an argument all by himself to go take some photos to calm down. Trophy knew Medal was trying to get him to be a better person and, maybe it was working. Though he couldn’t stop thinking about the times he and Medal got into arguments, the times that Trophy hurt him, made him cry or feel useless. Those happened a while ago and even now, Trophy still reflects on them. Trophy originally only wanted Medal as a friend because of his reputation, everyone loved Medal and Trophy wanted a piece of that, besides, Trophy felt drawn to him for simply being an award like him. But, that proved to be Trophy’s mistake as they got into an argument later into their friendship. Medal was angry at him for treating him like some sort of prize or accessory. How ironic. Either way, it actually made Trophy reflect. He enjoyed the time he spent with Medal and he was the one who ruined it. So now that they were better friends than ever before, how could he just mess it up by confessing to Medal? The idea of Medal hating him or feeling awkward knowing his true feelings made Trophy want to scream into his pillow. He couldn’t let that happen. But what if he said yes..? What if what Fan said was true? He figured he’d have to do something sooner or later. 

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“So… when did Knife get a kid too!?” Nickel yelled as he laid on the couch of his apartment beside his boyfriend, Baseball. The larger object just hummed in response, “Who knows, but he seems to be capable of taking care of a kid.” “But what about YinYang! They’re totally incapable!” Baseball frowned at that, sure his boyfriend could be quite rude at times, but “You shouldn’t judge them for their decision.” “Well, yeah but what if-” Baseball cut off Nickel “No buts- if they can’t take care of the kid other people can handle that. But for now at least have a little bit of faith in them.” Baseball smiled as Nickel grumbled “Fine.. fine.” Baseball and Nickel were silent for a while as they watched the tv. Baseball got lost in his thoughts briefly before realizing something. “Nickel, are you jealous?” He asked, making Nickel quickly straighten his posture “What!? No! It’s not like I want a kid or anything!” He yelled, but Baseball saw right through him. “Well, if you wanted to adopt, you could have just asked me.” He said calmly, making Nickel go silent. “I just, don't want anyone to judge” he admitted and Baseball brought him in for the best hug he could muster without arms. “It’s ok, I’m sure you’ll be a great dad. And hey, I’ll always be here for you, to support you and help you.” Baseball kissed him on the forehead, and Nickel smiled “Yeah alright, ok. Let's go tell OJ or something.” “And the others” “Yeah yeah will do.”

Thermometer glanced at the two in the back of her van. Why did he even agree to this? Oh. Right. Because he was the only one with a big enough car to fit Baseball, Nickel, and whoever they were going to adopt at once. And she actually had a license. Baseball and Nickel were talking the whole way there, and while Thermometer didn’t mind it, she couldn’t help but get a little annoyed about their repetitive statements. Mostly about how good of parents they’ll be. Thermometer found a spot to park while Baseball and Nickel left to enter the orphanage. Thermometer tapped the wheel to the sound of the music playing in her van as he waited. Baseball and Nickel took a while to choose who they wanted to adopt. Until they stumbled upon a young girl cradling a baby, trying to calm him down. Baseball and Nickel looked at each other, and nodded.

“So like, how far is it until we get home?” Bracelet asked, she seemed to be on her phone most of the time, but constantly checked up on baby Bead to make sure he was alright. “It won't be too long now” Baseball responded, smiling as he glanced over at Nickel, who was playing with Bead as Bracelet held onto the small baby. “I can't wait for you two to meet everyone at the apartments, they’ll love you!” Baseball said enthusiastically and Bracelet rolled her eyes. “And tomorrow, we can go shopping, get you two clothes and whatever” Nickel mentioned, keeping his eyes on Bead. Although his voice had that same gruff tone as it always did, his smile didn't falter at the sight of him and Baseball's new children. 

Chapter Text

Mephone4S was walking around the MeCloud, with no particular goal in mind. Perhaps he just needed to clear his mind, by taking a walk. However, there wasn’t much to see that he hasn’t seen every day already. However, something new popped into vision. A little Mp3 Player wandering the hallways. What was she doing here all on her own? Didn’t she have anything to do? She looked young, shouldn’t she be with Cobs? He approached the Mp3 Player, “hey there kid. What are you doing?” He had asked, his normally loud and abrasive voice, softened as not to appear scary to the child. She turned to see 4S. She appeared to be a little intimidated by him, but spoke up anyways. “I uhh, I’m looking around” 4S raised an eyebrow. “For what?” “Mr. Cobs! He wanted me to get something for him but I got lost..” 4S sighed, knowing that Cobs probably just wanted to get her out of the way. “How about you hang out with me for a little while? I’m sure Cobs won’t mind.” Mp3 smiled up at him, which warmed his heart. “Okie dokie!” 

4S took Mp3 to another room, where he generated a sketchbook and some colored pencils for her. She quickly got to picking out her favorite page from the coloring book and started coloring. 4S stood by and watched her, occasionally asking her questions or complimenting her work. “So, you’re an Mp3 player, right?” “Mhm!” “Cool, what did Cobs want you to get him?” “Uhh, some wires. I think.” She kicked her legs while she colored in a flower. 4S clicked his tongue. Of course. Cobs just wanted to get rid of her for a while, but why? Mp3 seemed so sweet, and not really annoying at all. Then again, it was Cobs. Cobs probably had ‘better things to do than watch over a child.’ 4S watched her color for a little while longer before he gently nudged her “Come on, let’s get you back to Cobs.” She frowned “But I didn’t get what he needed” “Oh, I’m sure he’ll be fine” 4S offered his hand to help Mp3 up, which she took, but didn’t let go of his hand. 4S didn’t really mind and just brought her to Cobs’s office. The walk there was quiet, leaving 4S to think. Honestly, 4S didn’t know why Cobs bothered to keep him around. Not only did he fail to destroy his previous model, Mephone4, but he destroyed himself in the process. 4S supposed he was only around because Cobs needed another bot to test his  generative abilities but other than that, he wasn’t sure. What kind of tests is he doing on Mp3? His thoughts were cut short when Mp3 tapped his arm. They were standing in front of Cobs’s office. How long had he just been standing there? He shook his head with a sigh and opened the door, straightening his posture. “Mr. Cobs sir, I believe that little Mp3 here got lost.” Cobs turned his head to 4S “Oh, splendid! Right when I needed her too. Come on now” he said with a fake smile. Mp3 nervously walked over to Cobs, who motioned for 4S to leave. Once 4S left, the door slammed shut on him and he was in his own head again. What was he going to do with her? Based on his own experience, 4S made the decision to peek at the security cameras- which he already had downloaded the feed of- and keep an eye on Cobs and Mp3. 

Nothing much happened for a while, Cobs just ran a few diagnostics on Mp3 and all seemed to be pretty alright. That is, until he saw Cobs crush Mp3’s buttons with a hammer. 4S watched in horror as Mp3 went limp and was promptly regenerated. Cobs wrote down a few notes. 4S tapped out of the cameras. Now, he knew Cobs was experimenting with regenerating life but this was.. This was different. He was testing on a kid for god’s sake! 4S wasn’t particularly known for his loyalty towards Cobs, but he still stuck by his side for the longest time. And even then, he could never process what goes on in that man’s twisted mind. And, perhaps by impulse, he made a quick decision. He needed to take Mp3 and get the hell out of this place. 

Chapter Text

Blueberry and his roommate Locket sighed in unison as they sat on the couch together, staring at the tv screen that wasn’t even turned on. Locket looked over at Blueberry once he heard the small fruit’s stomach grumble. Without a word being said, Locket left the apartment, squinting at the bright lights. It was a great contrast to the dim lights of him and Blueberry’s shared apartment and Locket didn't particularly appreciate how blinding they were to him. It didn't help that the light bounced off of Locket’s reflective silver and gold body. He took in a deep breath before making his way down the hall and into the elevator. He pressed the button for the first floor with his foot as he waited for the doors to close and slowly take him down. It took a moment for Locket to even realize the doors had opened, he must have spaced out. Oh well. He then proceeded to walk to the kitchen to grab some food for him and Blueberry with some struggle. Having no arms didn’t really help. “Need a hand?” A familiar voice said from behind him. Locket turned around to see Soap. The girl had been doing her usual cleaning rounds and was just about to clean the kitchen when she spotted the elusive Locket. Out of him and Blueberry, he certainly left his room more. But when he did others didn’t really notice very often, some even joked about how little they’ve seen him and his blue roommate. Locket slowly nodded his head as he allowed for Soap to finish helping him prepare the sandwiches he was trying to make. She gently stacked them onto a plate and placed them on Locket’s head. Good thing he was skilled at balancing, most objects without arms pick up how to balance things on their head pretty quickly, after all. Locket said a quiet “Thank you” in monotone before leaving the kitchen to return to his friend. Was that.. Was that the first time Soap had ever heard his voice? 

Locket returned to him and Blueberry’s apartment and he walked over to his roommate who still remained on the couch, staring at the blank tv. Blueberry slowly turned his head to see Locket and gave him a small smile. They ate in silence. “You know, I think you’re my favorite person at this place. You’re quiet.” Locket stared at him. Despite the lack of emotion in his face, Blueberry could tell that he appreciated what he had said. They sort of understood each other like that. On a deeper level than others. Often their conversations were one-sided, Blueberry liked to talk about his problems but Locket always liked to listen. He was good at that. Locket didn’t like to talk at all, unless he had something important to say. Blueberry knew all of this, he just kind of understood Locket without the man having to say anything to him. And whenever Blueberry was unsure, Locket would always speak up with a short reassurance. Locket always knew how Blueberry was feeling, he was good at reading others emotions. Maybe that was why he lacked the ability to express his own. It’s not like Locket was devoid of any emotion, quite the opposite in fact. He just didn’t know, or rather, he couldn’t show them. Neither him nor Blueberry minded though. Their friendship was something special. Something hard to come by. Both parties felt important when around the other, and were glad to be friends. Locket didn’t mind taking care of Blueberry, be it getting him food or listening to his ramblings, and Blueberry had a companion to feel secure around. It was nice. 

Chapter Text

Cotton and YinYang!

Exacto and Knife!

Medal and Trophy!

Bracelet, Nickel, Bead, and Baseball!

Tissues and Thermometer!

Blueberry and Locket!

Chapter Text

Knife smiled as he played games with his unofficial son Exacto and YinYang’s daughter, Cotton. The two kids seemed to be getting along well, and went so far as to call themselves cousins. Though, Yang said he didn’t like the idea of being Knife’s “brother.” At least Yin trusted Knife enough to let him take care of Cotton while they were out for the day. Cotton kicked their legs that hung off the couch. They were focused, and still, Exacto beat both Knife and Cotton in the game. Though Knife wasn’t very upset about it. The two kids set down their controllers before the little ball of fuzz tackled their cousin, Exacto laughed as he was playfully attacked by the little Cotton Ball. He knew he could easily overpower them, but he let Cotton throw a few gentle punches. “Oh you little stinker!” Exacto said before he wrapped one arm around Cotton and used his free hand to rub his knuckles against their head in a noogie. Cotton squealed and laughed as Knife watched, laughing along with the two. “Knife, save me from the noogies!” Cotton yelled out as Knife smiled and pulled Exacto off of them. He then started to give Exacto a noogie on his forehead. Exacto dramatically yelled out, “Oh nooo! What ever will I do against the noogie monster!” Knife laughed even more at this and started to tickle Exacto, who burst out into laughter in response. Cotton laughed at him before Knife attacked them with tickles too, which gave Exacto time to breathe and wipe away his tears caused by all of the laughter. There was a knock at the door all of a sudden, and Knife went to go see who it was. Lo and behold, it was a very tired looking Balloon. “Jeez, would you guys keep it down in there?” He asked in his normal high pitched voice. Knife rubbed the back of his blade, “Oh, yeah sure.” He responded simply and Balloon sighed “It’s ok just, trying to take a nap.” He left and once the trio calmed down from all the roughhousing, they huddled up together on the couch. At some point they agreed on watching a movie and were now doing just that. 

YinYang walked into the apartments, quickly making their way to Knife’s place to check up on their daughter. They wanted to see them as soon as possible. Once they got to Knife’s apartment, they knocked on the door. They anxiously waited as Knife took his sweet time to answer the door. Once he did, Yang shoved Knife out of the doorway to go find Cotton. “Sorry about Yang, we’re just worried about our little Cotton.” Yin told Knife, who just chuckled “Jeez, I’m not that bad at taking care of kids.” YinYang found Cotton on the couch, fast asleep and cuddling with Exacto. Who was also sleeping. YinYang couldn’t help but smile at the sight. “Awwe” said Yin “Well, I guess we shouldn’t bother them. But we’ll stay here to keep our eyes on them! Just to be sure.” Yin laughed a little at his brother “It’s ok, and thank you Knife. You took good care of our daughter.” Knife’s eyebrows raised and he smiled a little. “It was nothing, really. Besides, Exacto really likes hanging out with that little fuzz ball. So they’re always welcome here.” The twins nodded and waited for a little while. Upon realizing that Cotton wouldn’t wake up anytime soon, YinYang gently picked her up and took them to their own apartment. Yin thanked Knife one more time as they left. 

Chapter Text

Tissues laid in bed as Thermometer stepped into his room, a bowl of soup in hand. Tissues sat up and smiled as he took the hot bowl and began to eat the soup with a spoon. “Thanks Thermometer” he said, his accent only accentuated by the fact that he was even sicker today than usual. Hence why he was bedridden for the time being. Thermometer just shrugged, for a gal with a temper as bad as hers, he was actually pretty alright with taking care of Tissues. In fact, he was most calm when tending to the teal box. For Thermometer, it gave him something to do. She and Tissues didn’t talk often, but when they did it was about small things, like how the weather was, or how work went, or how their friends were doing. Little things that didn’t induce any anger for the short-tempered Thermometer. So he enjoyed her time around Tissues, and never really minded helping him clean up. Thermometer supposed that it was easier to keep her hands busy than to bother talking to annoying people like Nickel, Salt, Pepper, Trophy, etc… really he could find anyone annoying for different reasons, even Tissues. And Trophy had a way of especially making her angry, just because he could. At least, whenever his friend Medal wasn’t around. It wasn’t very pretty when Thermometer got angry, her temperature raised, as did the mercury in his head, and he always yelled or even screamed if pushed enough. In a way, she and Paintbrush could relate like that. Though Thermometer was always easier to tick off, and he even got destructive sometimes during her outbreaks. Despite her fragile glass body, Thermometer is surprisingly strong. Though is not particularly the type to work out often, he is certainly strong enough to flip the large lobby couch with ease, like how he did during one of her tantrums. Trophy always finds her fits hilarious. 

Her mercury raised as he thought about Trophy, and Tissues was quick to try and calm her down. “Thermometer! Remember your breathing exercises, In… out.” Oh yeah, that was another reason why Thermometer liked Tissues, he helped her calm down. Not many people tried to do that, Lightbulb and Suitcase, sure, but they weren’t usually around to help. And besides, Lightbulb usually made it worse. Though she always has good intentions, Thermometer didn’t particularly find her help to be very effective. As for the others, most people get scared off by Thermometer’s anger. Thermometer took deep breaths and managed to calm down, her mercury settling down. “Thanks Tissues” Thermometer said as he sat down on the bean bag beside Tissues’s bed. The bean bag had been a Christmas gift to Tissues and didn't get used much by the box himself, but Thermometer had found herself really enjoying the oddly shaped chair. After a few moments of silence had passed, Thermometer stood up. “Well, shoot me a text if you need anything. Kay?” He said and Tissues simply said “Okay” in response. 

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As usual, Mephone4 was over at OJ Apartments, really just so that he could mess with OJ and the other residents. He was really annoying, especially to OJ. He raided the lobby kitchen every time he was there and just- lazed about. A true nuisance to the landlord. However, OJ wasn’t expecting another visitor today, and Paper was in utter shock when he found himself standing at the doorway with Mephone4S just outside of the Apartment. OJ had asked him to get the door since he was busy, and there wasn’t anyone in the lobby other than Mephone4. 4S raised an eyebrow “Are you just going to stand there gawking at me or can I come in?” Paper blinked a few times, he was in disbelief. “O-Oh sure! Come in-” Paper stepped aside as 4S walked in. Something that Paper hadn’t noticed was the young girl holding his hand. An Mp3 player. “S-So!” Paper stuttered “What brings you here? Everyone thought you were.. Well-” 4S glanced over at Paper as he spoke, “Dead? Yeah, well I was rebuilt. Simple.” 4S looks around the lobby “I want to stay here” 4S said as his eyes found their way back to Paper’s face. Paper was shocked. 4S staying here? How would the others take that- how would Mephone4- “Red!?” Said the phone on the couch. He rose and walked over to his red screened counterpart. “But- I thought you were-” “Dead, I know” “Well, What happened?” “That’s a story for another day, I must see the landlord! Now!” Paper butted in “W-Well, OJ is really quite busy now, I’m sure we can just sit down, relax on the couch, and wait for him to be available?” 4S glared at Paper, before glancing down at Mp3 and sighing “Fine”

As Paper had wanted, he, 4S, Mp3 and Mephone4 were resting on the lobby couch. That’s when Mephone4 noticed the little Mp3 that never seemed to leave 4S’s side. She hasn’t talked at all yet, which made Mephone4 curious. “So, uhh. Who’s the kid?” “Oh her? That’s Mp3, she’s my kid now!” 4S said with a smile meanwhile Mephone4 looked mortified. He’s a dad now? That would make Mephone4 the uncle! He can’t take care of kids! What if 4S expected him to spend time with her? 4S looked at Mp3 and spoke in the softest tone Mephone4 has ever heard him speak in, “Go ahead, say hi. It’s ok” he said and Mp3 waved at Mephone4 “Uh, hi.” She smiled, and 4 raised an eyebrow, “So.. what’s your deal anyways kid? Why have you been so quiet?” He asked and Mp3 hesitated “Mr. Cobs said that I can’t talk while the adults are talking..” Mephone4 blinked a few times, trying to piece everything together in his mind. 4S suddenly arrives at the apartments… He brings a kid.. He had to have been rebuilt at Meeple Headquarters. He must have saved the kid then come here for shelter! That makes sense. Paper checked the time “Alright Mephone4S, lets go talk to OJ” 4S smiled “Perfect!”

OJ looked over at Paper when he entered his office, his expression quickly turning to shock as he saw 4S behind him. “Oh! Hey 4S you're not-” “Dead! I know!” 4S said as he looked down at Mp3. She wanted to be picked up so 4S was quick to do just that. “We wanted to move in. Immediately!” “Oh, well sure. But I’ll need some documents… like an ID and all. I’ll have to get you some paperwork-” OJ cut himself off to look for the paperwork and help both 4S and Mp3 get moved in. They decided on room 405, since it was the quiet area of the hotel, and 4S decided that it would be perfect to help Mp3 get adjusted to this new life, not to mention all of the new people. Once all was said and done, Paper led them to their new apartment, and gave 4S the keys to it. “Here it is! All yours.” Paper said with a smile. Mp3 was quick to walk into the apartment and run around, giggling. This place was so nice! Smaller than what she was used to, but cozy and warm! 4S thanked Paper as he left, and the phone entered the apartment, closing the door behind him. “Not bad” he thought aloud. 

Chapter Text

Cherries and Cheesy were known for their troublemaking, sometimes even getting YinYang involved with their pranks. Though lately it’s been getting harder to convince them to help around. They were always so busy with their daughter now! “How unfair!” Cherries said aloud. “YinYang hasn’t been spending any time with us!” “You can’t blame them” Said Cheesy “They must be so split over who to spend time with!” He joked, slapping his knee. “I don't know Cheesy-” one cherry picked at their fingernails while the other kept their focus on Cheesy “-It seems like they prefer their daughter over us!” Cheesy frowned a little “Well, it is family over friends. Besides, they just adopted Cotton not too long ago! Of course they’d want to be around them more. I’m sure in time they’ll be less focused on them and more on us!” Cherries sighed “Yeah, I guess.” Cheesy thought for a moment “I know what will cheer you up! Another prank” Cheesy snickered, they’ve been on a streak lately, at least one prank a day for 5 days! They couldn’t let it up now and Cheesy knew the perfect target. “How about the ol’ water bucket on Cotton? They’ll be swimming in anger after that!” Cheesy slapped his knee again, making Cherries laugh, “Yeah.. that’s perfect! Come on, let's go!” Cherries enthusiastically grabbed Cheesy’s arm and ran to go get the bucket. 

The prank was all set up, both Cherries and Chessy were waiting for Cotton to walk through the door of her and their dads’s apartment. And just as planned, it happened! Cotton opened the door and the bucket of water fell, drenching her. She looked shocked for a moment, before looking over at Cherries and Cheesy. They were prepared for the worst but all Cotton did was snicker, before she exploded into a fit of laughter. Well, that wasn’t expected. Bomb peeked out of his and Pickle’s shared apartment and looked down the hall. He had heard a large crash. “I-Is e-everything al-al-alright?” He asked, walking over to them. “Oh it’s fine!” Cotton giggled, “Don’t worry Bomb, hehe! Cherries and Cheesy just pranked me” Bomb looked at the scene and smiled, at least Cotton didn’t get hurt. “W-W-Well, alright” he went to go walk back to his apartment when he spotted YinYang by the elevator “You better go help your kid” he snickered before entering his apartment. YinYang was confused for a moment before their attention was captured by their daughter, who was soaking wet and shivering. But still laughing. “Cotton!” Yin shouted before running to her. They looked over at Cherries and Cheesy “You two! Do you know how long it takes to dry off Cotton!? AARGH!!” Yang said angrily “Is Cotton hurt? That bucket better not have fallen on their head!” Added Yin. Cheesy and Cherries looked at each other before laughing as well. They thought Cotton would get mad, not YinYang! It was funny either way, and Cherries was satisfied with the results of the prank. At least Cherries and Cheesy cleaned up the water while YinYang got out the hair dryer and some towels to dry off Cotton. The twins were absolutely right, drying off Cotton took forever. Her body naturally loved to soak up as much water as it could so drying them off was time consuming. Oh well, at least Cotton thought the prank was funny. Maybe Cherries could ask them to join in their next prank. 

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Hey! I’m going to be taking a small break from writing, hopefully only a few days. This is because writing one chapter every day is kinda exhausting for me, even when I use the weekends for break. So hopefully I’ll be writing away again with fresh ideas very soon!

~AstronautStation_Stories

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Monday, May 5th, 4:50am

Dear reader,

I’m sure you are wondering what happened to this fic. What was originally going to be only a few days break suddenly turned into over a year-long hiatus. My co-writer and I have discussed coming back to this fic on-and-off, but have made no real plans to continue.

And honestly? I feel as though you deserve an explanation for my absence.

Life was biting me in the ass, to put it lightly. School got increasingly stressful and difficult to the point where I had to take a week-long hospital visit due to my mental state. And at the end, I failed my senior year of highschool last-minute; to which I’m still making up the credits for. My co-writer got a job and with that on top of school, it was hard for them to find the time to even work on this fic. Though they are now graduated and in college.

It was one hell of a mess for me emotionally, one with many trials and realizations I had within myself.

However,

As of late my mental state has been greatly improving. I won’t go into any further detail regarding my life than I already have, but I feel confident that I am finally on an upwards trajectory. Unfortunately I cannot promise any updates soon, but I assure you that this fic is always on my mind!

Thank you all for your continued love and support! You don’t know just how much your kind words truly mean to me.

With much love,

-Astro