Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Every morning Stone opens his shop, the Mean Bean, and begins serving his town. He thinks his shop is the best in Green Hills, and all his regulars agree. different people come in to enjoy the vast selection of lattes, cappuccinos, and espressos. Stone also makes all the pastries and bagels in-house.

Business has been doing well ever since he started taking suggestions on what he could add to the menu, via a suggestion box he placed next to the straw station. He even started experimenting with making a latte with steamed Austrian goat milk. When he read the small piece of paper with scratchy but legible writing. He laughed and thought that there was no way of making something that could be sour or earthy into a decent menu item worth selling, but Stone was up for the challenge.

For weeks he practiced with different types of roasts and blends to complement the goat milk, through trial and error he found the perfect blend to combine it with. He also discovered that the creamy milk was perfect for latte art which he had a hobby of doing for himself and the occasional customer who asked. And finally, once he deemed ready he wrote it on the chalkboard behind the counter and waited for its first buyer.

A few days went by before anyone ordered the latte, and some people would make comments about it being an interesting choice. Stone almost took it off the menu but a tall man made his swift entrance and went straight for the order kiosk. He recognized the man but he never heard a word from him and would always make the option to order on the kiosk. He had black slicked hair and a curled handlebar mustache. The man would always wear black office attire and small rectangular sunglasses. He often had bulky headphones on and was in and out as soon as he got his latte. Stone only knew him as Dr. R from the name on the order, but he was always trying to get his attention somehow. Every time he greeted or tried to make conversation it would be met with a comment about trying too hard or just as simple as walking away.

When he looked to see what his next order was, it was the Austrian goat milk latte! He must have been the one who made the strange suggestion.

Stone worked quickly and nervously to make the latte, he wanted it to be perfect and up to this doctor's unknown but presumably high expectations. Once he was done he set it on the pickup counter.

“Enjoy your coffee sir!” he smiled

“It’s Doctor.” the man snapped

The Doctor quickly swiped his drink and stormed out the door before Stone could correct himself.

“Rude.” Huffed Stones summer employee who was the epitome of teenage angst and preferred to be called Shadow.

Shadow had black spiky hair with red streaks and looked like a member of my chemical romance. He would regularly have confrontations with the doctor about not making his lattes correctly, then Stone decided it was best to make them himself from now on, which gave him more time to spark up a conversation with such an interesting person.

A week went by and Stone still hadn’t seen the Doctor back for another coffee, but a few people had ordered the goat milk latte and said they enjoyed it so he is content with keeping it on the menu as he doesn’t mind stocking the milk because he also likes the flavor.

As Stone was cleaning up right after the midday rush he heard a ring from the bell on the door and someone flew to the kiosk, it was the man back again. He received the order and it was another goat milk latte! He dropped what he was doing and got to work making the man’s coffee. He set it down and waited with a smile, The doctor snatched the coffee and sat at the half booth in the corner facing the counter. Stone was shocked. he had never seen him stay and drink his coffee before, and now he was sitting there glancing at him working.

“What's this asshole up to now?” Shadow sneered heading to the back to stock.

An hour passed and he was still there long after he was done with his drink, now and then checking his smartwatch. It was almost closing time and he was the last one there. Stone was trying to ignore him but he kept catching himself looking through the display case to spy.

The man got up and stiffly walked up to Stone waiting for him to notice him standing there.

“Oh! How was your latte doctor?” Stone exclaimed when he was startled by the presence of someone standing behind him.

“It was adequate.” the doctor stated.

“Uh does that mean you liked it?” Stone questioned if that was a good response or not.

“Didn't I just say I did? But it could have used more foam, I will be back tomorrow! and I will give you my opinion again then.” he turned to leave

“Have a good night!” stone shouted.

His farewell was met with a hand waved in the air and the chime of the bell as he left.

The next morning he was back around the same time as yesterday and before he even ordered Stone was already brewing the espresso. He once again set the latte down.

“You're quick today.” stated the doctor who was already in the same spot as the previous day.

Stone nervously wiped down his machines and started another order when another person walked in.

Once more was the uncomfortable waiting game as he drank the coffee, Stone was eager to hear if he got it correct this time. He wondered as to why he was so worried about what this guy thinks of this latte, he usually is very proud of himself and liked learning what the customers thought. Could his unease be because of the uniqueness of the drink, Or could it be from the person who ordered it?

His thoughts slipped his mind from Shadow drumming on the countertop with coffee stirs.

“Will you quit that? What are you doing standing around I thought I told you to go clean those tables.” Stone gestured with his hands.

“Fine” Shadow whined obnoxiously grabbing the rag and spray bottle and then stomping off.

The doctor headed up to stone at a fast pace and slammed both hands down onto the counter. Stone jumped and spun around to be met with the man right in his face.

“How was it, Doctor?” He said as he took a step back and straightened his posture.

“It was to one's liking.” He asserted leaning over the counter even more.

“Well, I’m happy you liked it.” Stone said with a grin with all his nervousness going away “By the way may I ask your name?”

“Last name Robotnik, first name Ivo” After he spelled out his name he turned on his heel and left.

After work, Stone could not stop thinking about his day and decided to go to the local bar. When he arrived he was greeted by Wade Whipple, a cop who frequently comes into his shop for bagels and coffee. After time the two became close friends. Wade was sitting at the end of the bar waving stone over with both hands over his head.

“Aban! Over here!” he ushered the stone over.

Stone doesn't normally enjoy hearing his first name because he shares it with his dad, but Wade insists that friends call each other by first names. He walked over and sat down next to his friend.

“I'll have an old fashioned please.” Stone said to the bartender.

“How's it going? I haven't seen you here in a while.” Wade patted Stone on the back.

“I've been busy experimenting with different menu items, and there's this new customer. I think they're new in town.” Stone sighed and took a sip of his drink.

“Oh really what's his name?’ Wade said, smirking and wagging his eyebrows.

“Dr. Ivo Robotnik, he had a strange suggestion for a latte.” Stone sighed “How did you know it was a guy?” He turned to Wade.

“I see how you get when you talk about people” Wade leaned in.

“What does that mean?” Stone asked again.

“Remember that guy you told me about from the latte art class, you know the one you hooked up with? You are acting the same dude,” he said chuckling.

Wade may seem oblivious sometimes but he surprises Stone with how much he picks up. He thought about having those feelings himself but just brushed it off.

“Fuck your right.” He put his head in his hands and rubbed his face.

“Soooo what are ya gonna do?” Wade poked at Stone.

“I don't know, I barely know him and he really isn't the easiest person to talk to.” he finished his drink, slammed it down, and ordered another.

“Just ask for his number, He should get the hint. Or maybe write your number on his cup,” suggested Wade.

“I guess that could work,” he decided.

Stone's anxieties are all coming back but in a different way this time. He was determined to get closer to Robotnik, and he deemed next time he stopped by he would give him his number.

The next morning Stone had the worst hangover. He and Wade both stayed until the bar closed, and Wade had to drag Stone home. He was almost late to work and was regretting coming in. He would normally stay home but he fired his only employee Karen for not following the recipes and for having terrible customer service. Stone had a pounding headache and couldn't remember most of what happened last night but what he does is that he has to give Robotnik his number.

“What’s wrong with you, hungover?” Nudged Shadow smiling leaning on the counter.

“Yeah, now leave me alone and get back to work.” Stone sighed

Shortly after Stone hired Shadow, he started becoming a parental figure towards the kid, often worrying and setting him back on track.

Ring

The door swung open and Robotnik walked over to the kiosk and ordered tapping his foot. Stone received the order and began making the latte, noticing the name on the order, Ivo. Stone was surprised Robotnik put his name down rather than his usual “Dr.R”. He was more nervous than ever, and he noticed Robotnik was waiting at the counter he must be in a hurry. Stone took a deep breath and wrote his number down on the cup and set it down.

“Enjoy your latte!” he said turning red and then turning to hide behind the bagel shelving.

Robotnik took his coffee and left just as fast as he came in not even looking at the writing on the cup. Stone was relieved he did not have to elaborate on why he put down his number, but it was the waiting game of whether he would call, text, or even come back in to say something in person. Stone straightened his apron and texted Wade.

[Stone: I did it.]

[Wade: how’d it go ;)]

[Stone: he walked out and didn't say anything]

[Wade: awwww]

Stone shook his head and put his phone back in his pocket. He took painkillers for his worsening headache which he blamed on Wade and Shadow.

It didn't take long to get home as his one-room apartment was above his shop. He made a frozen lasagna dinner, poured himself tea and sat on his couch. Stone called out to Mocha, his cat, she came and climbed onto his shoulder. After he ate he sat back and turned on the television. All he could think about was Robotnik reaching out to him, he didn't know what Robotnik would say or how to respond. Since it was a Friday and would be off tomorrow, he stayed up until he passed out where he was sitting.

Ding… Ding…

Stone jolted up looking for the sound that woke him up. Mocha fell off his lap and ran to the bedroom. It was his phone, he read the time, it was three in the morning and he had two messages from an unknown number. Stone stood up and started pacing around his apartment. He reluctantly looked at the messages.

[Unknown: LATTE MAN YOU WROTE ON MY CUP]

[Unknown: WHAT IS YOUR NAME??]

“SHIT” Stone slammed his phone down on his kitchen counter. He walked away and ran to pick it back up and quickly texted his name back. His heart was racing and he didn't know whether he should try to call Wade or deal with it himself.

Ding…

[Stone: it is Stone]

[Unknown: What are you a rock? Why did you write on my cup!?]

Stone thought this guy couldn’t be that stupid; he must have been joking with him. What should he say? He has to go for it, he made it this far and isn't backing out now.

[stone: I wanted to go out somewhere.]

[Robotnik: where is somewhere?]

[stone: Maybe dinner at the Hills pub & grill ]

[Robotnik: Alright then, see you there Tomorrow at 6 pm sharp! We will discuss this further.]

“TOMORROW?” Stone panicked. This was going way too fast for his liking.

Stone was antsy all day until the time came to get ready and meet the man keeping him up at night. He put on a gray button-up shirt, slacks, and black shoes. He felt confident in his choice of outfit and headed for the door.

Walking down the street to the restaurant he spotted Robotnik standing by the door. Stone went red at the sight of him in a black turtle neck and trousers. He was not used to seeing him in more casual clothes.

“You're early! I have a table waiting.” Robotnik said checking his watch and then walking inside.

Stone quickly followed trying to catch up. He found Robotnik gesturing to a booth seat in the back corner away from the crowd.

“Thank you,” Stone said making eye contact with a quick smile, and sat down.

“I do not like crowds so I got us a seat that's more, personal.” Robotnik sat down. “What was the reason we are here again?” he said leaning over.

“I wanted to go to dinner with you, I wanted to get to know you better.” Stone said as he straightened in his seat.

“Then do you have any questions about me?” Robotnik propped his head on his hands.

“Okay well, Where did you come up with a steamed Austrian goat milk latte?” stone questioned.

“I had business in Austria and while I was there I tried different foods. There was this coffee shop that specialized in goat milk.”

“Oh wow I hope mine is just as good” Stone joked.

“It was disgusting they should be put out of business but you were able to bring out its true potential,” Robotnik said picking up the menu.

“What do you do for work?” Stone asked feeling pride from what Robotnik said.

“I am an IT security specialist hired by the government, I have my own special operations unit” Robotnik turned to the waiter and ordered a bottle of Merlot for the table. “Two glasses” he added.

“That’s amazing, I went to college for computer science to make my parents happy. I do have an interest in it but my true passion is running a cafe.” Stone shared. He was worried Robotnik would think of him as someone who settles and has no dedication.

“I know, top of your class too.” Robotnik took a sip of the wine.

“How did yo-” stone stammered

“I do my research.” cut off Robotnik.

How much did he know? Stone wanted to question him more but this was going nowhere. By the time he wanted to tell him the real reason he asked him here, The waiter was back taking their orders.

After getting their food it was quiet and uncomfortable. The two finished off two bottles of wine and paid the bill. Stone was feeling impaired and was not well on his feet. He stumbled outside and Robotnik turned to him.

“What is your problem can't handle alcohol?” Robotnik asked.

“I've always been a lightweight” Stone slurred.

Robotnik insisted on walking Stone home even though it was two blocks. When they got to his apartment Stone was feeling confident and stupid.

“Do you like me, Ivo?” Stone asked leaning forward, he wanted nothing more than to get closer to Robotnik.

“I don’t even know you, dumbass,” Robotnik pushed Stone up against his door “And I also don’t remember letting you call me by my first name.”

“But we just went on a date!” Stone whined pushing his face into the chest right in front of him.

“That was no such thing as a date, if you wanted to call it that you would have stated in the beginning.” Robotnik flushed red and pushed himself away from Stone and the wall. “Get inside you are drooling on yourself!” he fixed his hair and swept away “This isn't over!” Robotnik added.

Chapter Text

The day was busy at work and of all weeks Shadow could have taken off it was for the busiest week of the season. Stone was running out of time to prepare the pastries and was selling out fast. He is overwhelmed and tired. Ring. the door swung open. Stone thought: Just what I needed another customer! He looked up and saw Robotnik heading towards the counter, quickly. He still has not forgotten that day and hasn't seen him since. Stone became flustered he wanted to run in the back so he wouldn't have to face the man now, but he had no other workers.

“I will have a latte with steamed Austrian goat milk” Robotnik ordered without the mobile station this time.

“Doctor, I uh am out of goat milk, I only have oat.” Stone cringed at his uncomfortable tone of voice.

“WHAT? OAT IS UNACCEPTABLE! What is wrong with you?” the shop fell silent at Robotnik’s outburst. He was to close Stone now.

“I'm sorry, I have no help or time to run out to get supplies.” Stone looked around at the settling crowd.

“Give me a list of what you need and an hour, then I will take my latte on the house.” Robotnik waited.

“Really?” Stone exclaimed.

“Yes, Now give me the list before I leave you to run out of coffee.” He threatened.

Stone quickly wrote out a list and handed it to Robotnik who promptly left and managed to push at least three people out of his way. Stone got right back to work getting caught up with orders. Why would Robotnik help him after everything he did? That thought was making him angry, he felt like such an idiot he didn't even apologize for the way he acted.

Stone had to deal with many furious customers after the last of the oat milk ran out. He was about to close the shop early but, someone came storming in. The man made his way straight to the back, Stone looked around at the waiting customers.

“I will be right back!” He forced a smile and followed.

When he found the Doctor he was unloading the groceries and setting up something from a large black suitcase. A red glow was cast up on his face, four orbs levitated up from the case. Stone couldn't help but gasp which ended up catching Robotnik's attention.

“There you are! Now where do you keep those recipes for your pastries?” Robotnik said while tapping his fingers together in certain sequences as if he were typing.

“What are those?” Stone asked as he pulled a book from the counter, ensuring he didn't take his eyes off of the machines scanning the kitchen with red beams of light.

“These are the future Stone, my brilliant mind and hands created them they are called Badniks!” Robotnik wiggled his hands and ordered one to scan the book Stone was handing him.

“They are amazing!” Stone's eyes gleamed, he wanted to ask all about them and how they worked so quietly. But not yet.

“Sycophant…” He muttered, “My genius creations are here to do all the work in the back for you and the time being.”

“Thank you Doctor! I will prepare your latte right away.” He grabbed a handful of bags and headed to the front to restock and catch up.

Once the line calmed down he made Robotnik’s latte and drew a Badnik in the foam as best as he could from the short amount of time he had to take in their design. He was smelling the wonderful scent of bread and sweets from the back. He thought, were those robots really baking? As he pushed the door open with his back he saw the trays of goods prepared beautifully, and a calm Robotnik sitting and looking at his smartwatch. He was wearing his headphones and bobbing his head along to a tune. The Badniks were flying around cleaning their messes, beeping at each other as if warning the others not to crash. Little Chefs, Stone chuckled. He walked up behind the spaced-out doctor and reached his hand out to tap him on the shoulder but before he could reach he was caught by the other's hand on his wrist.

“Eh eh don't touch” Robotnik spun around on the chair and grabbed his latte, “Do not sneak up on me like that”

“My bad” Stone took his hand back rubbing where he was held, and his chest feeling warm.

“You’re quite the artist, not that accurate to my design though.” He sipped his drink.

“Thank you, this is amazing! They did this all by themselves?” Stone asked and grabbed his favorite (a Raspberry Scone), and took a bite. It was perfect, just as he made them and couldn't tell the difference.

“Yes, they are state-of-the-art machines that gather information and execute whatever plan I tell them.” He twirled his mustache.

Stone went and got a plate which he then grabbed two scones off the rack to hand to Robotnik as a thank you. “Here, it's on the house.” He grinned and put the plate down.

“Don't thank me just yet, I will be here all week monitoring the efficiency of the Badnik's new tasks.” He grabbed a scone and finished it off quickly.

Ring Ring Ring

The service bell was being rung, so Stone quickly grabbed the cart and got back to work. The thought of having Robotnik around for the whole workweek was making Stone nervous yet again, he never thought he would spend so much time with him, especially after his failed “date”.

Halfway through the week and Stone was feeling relieved, having the Badniks’ in the back doing most of the work was refreshing he was able to get a lot of work done that had been piling up while helping customers. As for Robotnik being around, he was quiet and was keeping to himself and his machines. He told Stone that he would only stay around if he had as many lattes as he wanted during the week for his hard work. Stone did not mind at all and enjoyed peeking in the back to see him. He even started to bond with the Badniks who seemed to have their own personalities, In the mornings they even fly around Stone beeping which sounds like a greeting.

“Here’s your latte Doctor,” Stone sat down across from him since he was on his lunch break.

Robotnik hummed and took his drink then continued working on his computer. Stone was picking at his lunch while searching for something to say to break the verbal silence. He wanted to thank the man more than just giving him coffee.

“Why are you helping me?” Stone put down his fork and sat up straight. His stomach was turning waiting for the answer while Robotnik was putting away his computer and took another sip.

“How else would I be able to get my lattes when your understaffed business crashes and burns after a week?” He leaned closer to Stone “For how incompetent the boy you call Shadow is, he pulls his weight around here.” Robotnik scowls when he says Shadow’s name.

“He is a good kid, but after losing his sister he has become troubled.” Stone explained. While adjusting his sleeves he gulps back his nerves and asks, “Is there any way I can pay you back for all of this? I feel coffee isn't enough for what you are doing here.”

“Well, if you are asking what I want in return,” Robotnik had a smirk come across his face. “A date, since you miserably failed your attempt last time.”

Stone was caught off guard and choked on his salad. He was not ready to have this conversation, but he could have another chance!

“You want to go on a date?” Stone got out.

“YOU want to go on a date, and I'm giving you a second try to impress me,” He reached his gloved hand over and flicked Stone right between the eyes.

“Ow!” Stone rubbed his bridge.

“Friday night after work you're taking me out!” He got up and proceeded to continue servicing his robots.

Stone sat there dumbfounded, was the Doctors face red? Stone felt he too was blushing from the contact with his face earlier. He quickly started making reservations and searched for a gift to give Robotnik since flowers did not seem to be his type.

Friday after closing Stone snuck his way to the staff bathroom to put on nicer clothing. He chose a black button-up this time and a red tie since their evening was to be spent at a steakhouse. He picked up the gift and headed outside to see Robotnik Leaning against a Sleek, Black, Tinted Bentley S1. Stone was taken aback to see the well-conditioned car, he thought that the car was perfect just like its owner.

“Stop staring, and close your mouth, you’ll catch flies.” Robotnik got into the driver's seat. “GET IN,” He yelled from inside.

Stone followed the orders and sat down to see the entire interior of the car was different than the outside. A car that was made in the fifties had heated and cooling seats that were lined with black, and red leather. The radio was a touch screen that connected to the biggest speakers installed in the door panels. He felt like he was sitting in the newest technology, and what he felt was right because this was Robotnik’s car. He marveled at the passion and skills it takes to upgrade something so bare and basic into the future.

“Incredible.” He uttered.

“Who are you Captain Obvious?” Robotnik took off with a spin of the tires, it sent Stone back into the seat and searching for the seatbelt.

They arrived at the restaurant, Stone quickly got out to open Robotniks door. When he made it to the door it swung open and hit him right in the gut, almost knocking him off his feet. He held his stomach while letting out a wheeze.

“Chiverly is dead.” The man got out to check the door for dents, and there was none because the door was solid. He left a mark on Stone though.

Other than Stone's aching side dinner went off well, and he was able to ask Robotnik more about his work and machines. The two were becoming closer, Robotnik mentioned how others never gave him the credit he deserved. Stone was just fascinated enough to have the courage to talk to someone who actively tries to push people away. After, they stood outside of the car. Stone went and got his gift out of the car. As he held it up to his date he pulled his face away in a flinch, he was scared of it being rejected. To no surprise, it was snatched out of his hands. Robotnik studied the box. Opening it, he pulled out a stainless steel travel mug. Stone decided the best gift and safest option for the man was a way to keep his precious coffee warm.

“What is this for?” Robotnik turned it over in his hands.

“Well, when you come in for your coffee I will make it in that so it stays warm longer. Also, it can hold more than the to-go cups.” He pointed out.

“Sensible, in return I will let you keep a Badnik. Just one!” He held his Index finger in front of Stone's face which had a smile that showed all of his perfect teeth. He looked like he was about to jump right into Robotniks arms.

“Really?” Stone's hands were clasped together in front of him.

“Stop questioning me.” Robotnik got back into his car to save himself from the light radiating off of Stone.

Stone followed and was burning with more questions. He wanted to know more about the Badnik he was gifted, how his job on winning over the Docter went, if he liked his gift, and lastly, if he would be seeing more of him. After a short time on the ride home, he figured that he would test his luck with one more question. And he had to make it count.

“Would we be able to have dinner at your house next time?” Fuck, so much for a well-thought-out question. As soon as he said it he wanted to slap himself, he wasn't thinking anymore.

“I don’t cook, It is a waste of my time,” Robotnik stated.

“I'll cook!” He blurted losing all hope of saving himself from this.

“Alright, I will pick you up same time next week.” He said pulling up in front of Stone's place.

After saying their goodbyes Stone ran upstairs and leaned up against his slammed door. He was out of breath from the flight of stairs he ran up nearly skipping most of the steps. He looked around for his beloved Mocha, it was past her dinner time and she wasn't screaming for her feast. After searching the living room for her he went and checked his bedroom. Inside he saw a single Badnik flying around with a laser pointer, Mocha chased and chased the red dot until she saw her father lower himself to pick her up. After he cradled his cat he gave the Badnik a pat on the top of its skull, it beeped with joy.

“I’m going to have to give you a name.” Stone smiled and turned to give Mocha her well-deserved dinner.

Chapter Text

Today was the day he had to deal with his mistake of offering to make dinner for Robotnik. He decided on a delicious meal that he thought the man would appreciate, a chicken pasta dish. Since he was unsure of the state of the kitchen of a man who doesn’t cook, he wanted to make something simple. He left for the store to get all the ingredients he needed. When he got back it was time to get ready.

The Badnik flew down to the bags and started scanning and nudging the bags, along with the help of Mocha who was searching for treats.

“Chai, you do not need to scan everything that comes into the house.” Stone grabbed the bag away from the curious bot. He laughed at the on-brand name he gave the bot. if Robotnik found out he named the gift surely it would be laughed at. He had already denied that the machines have built-in personality programming. Stone thought of what he was told: “Impossible, they are tools to be used. Having a mind of their own would be useless. The constant baking most likely fried their processors.” Robotnik justified.

BEEEEP BEEP BEEP

Stone looked out the window to see the commotion; it was just the doctor's arrival. He said goodbye to his pets and grabbed his supplies, he passed through the shop and grabbed the plate of sweets he prepared as a “Thank you for letting me invite myself to your home” gift. He saw Robotnik tapping his fingers on the wheel in a half-sarcastic waiting manner. Stone put the stuff in the back and got in.

“What is on the menu tonight chef?” Robotnik took off before the door was fully closed.

“Chicken pasta with a white wine sauce.” Stone said buckling up.

When the car pulled up to the front gates of the house Stone realized that Robotnik was far more wealthy than he had imagined. The mansion was plain black with a blocky shape, he noted how modern the house looked, and for that, he wasn't too surprised. Walking up to the door a screen on the side scanned Robotniks face and then his. A Badnik emerged from the wall to access the visitor and his belongings. Deeming Stone not a threat it flew back to its hiding space. Entering the house he noted the industrial theme the interior had.

“This way is the kitchen,” The man said. He sat on a stool at the island in the center of the kitchen. “Please help yourself to what you need.”

Stone nodded and started searching for a pan to begin cooking. Robotnik was sitting and watching as he was taking in everything Stone was doing. After a while, he grew bored and walked off to who knows where. The relief Stone felt was great, he was growing nervous about being watched. He plated their meals and placed them on the counter, His new task was to find Robotnik. He wandered down the halls until he heard a high-frequency noise from a high-tech-looking door. When he walked up to it the door slid open, the noise getting louder. Stone walked in and started looking around the dark room. He took in the various tools and machines around, he thought this must be the doctor's lab. Everything he saw was amazing. He followed the noise to the corner where Robotnik was sitting, a bright light flickering on and off. Robotnik Jumped out of his chair with a yelp.

“OW Ow ow,” he was holding his hand. He turned around and bumped right into Stone who he couldn't see due to the dark goggles he was still wearing. “AHH!” he pulled them off his head.

“Are you okay?” Stone went to grab at Robotniks hand but was immediately pulled up to his chest.

“Of course I am, I just burned it welding up a shell for a new prototype.” he was holding his hand in pain still. “What are you doing here!” he shouted.

“Well dinner is ready and I was looking for you to tell you,” Stone answered. He was looking over the doctor’s shoulder to catch a glimpse of his new creation.

“Quit peeking, if dinner is good I will gladly show you after.” Robotnik moved to shield Stone's view. Stone was now excited to have the man try his cooking, he couldn't wait to see the genius’s work.

They made their way to the kitchen and Robotnik grabbed a first aid kit from under the sink, he took off his gloves and attempted to put on ointment and a bandage on his burn. He was not successful, the bandage got all stuck to the wrong hand.

“Here, let me help.” Stone started caring for the wound. Robotnik stood there rigidly and complained about how he was the smartest man in the world who was able to take care of himself.

“There,” Stone finished and started cleaning up. Robotnik inspected the work and looked pleased.

They sat down to eat, Robotnik grabbed a bottle of red wine and two glasses. “Can I trust you this time?” he asked making fun of Stone for being a lightweight. “Yes, sir” Stone took a sip. He watched as his idol took his first bite of the food. He made this meal many times before so he was sure of the turnout.

“How is it?” He asked straightening himself.

“It tastes like you will be hearing about my prototype.” He continued eating.

Stone was filled with relief, not only did the doctor like his food he would be able to see more of the work in the lab. Dinner was done and Stone noticed the Badniks at work in the kitchen cleaning the leftover mess. Robotnik got up and headed for the lab. Stone quickly got up to follow like a dog following its owner. The man gave a detailed tour and brief story on each machine including the one he was working on earlier. He went through a door that led to a larger room that had a larger version of a Badnik. From further inspection, it seemed to be some form of jet.

“Behold! A smaller, yet faster aircraft that the government requested” his arms were held out from his sides. He was proud of his creation and Stone could tell.

“Magnificant,” marveled as Stone walked over to get a closer look.

Stone was spun around and pinned to the ship and an angry Robotnik was an inch away from his face. His hand was gripped onto the collar of his shirt and the other was on the surface behind him, he was tapping the metal.

“Tell me why you suck up to me!” Robotnik raised his voice.

“What? I don't!” held his hands up and grabbed the wrist holding him.

“None of those government incels ever agree with my greatness, who sent you!” He shook.

“No one! I- I just like you a lot, and think you are impressive.” Stone tried to smile through the discomfort of telling the man his feelings.

The hand on his collar dropped with the doctor's head, and he turned away leaving the lab. Stone stood there frozen, what just happened? He shook himself out of the daze, He had to go find the man. He looked in the kitchen and he wasn't there, he walked to find a room off of the living room. It was a library, the walls were lined with books, and in the corner sat Robotnik in an armchair he was leaning back covering his face to the side. Stone walked up slowly not to startle him.

“Are you okay?” Stone stood there waiting for a reply, Robotnik was ignoring him still. He was frustrated that he was left alone, not knowing why the doctor had such a strange outburst. Stone walked up to the chair putting his hands on both armrests, leaning in he decided to fight fire with fire. “Hey,” letting his face become closer. There was no anger in his voice but he was stern. “What's wrong?” After another minute of being ignored, fine. He decided to sit right on his lap, Robotnik grabbed his sides, pulled Stone closer, and laid his head on his chest. Stone reluctantly brushed his hands through his hair and on his neck. Robotnik was shaking, Stone soothed him with kind words, “You're ok.” He spoke

“Stop feeling pity for me,” he held Stone tighter.

“It's not pity,” Stone breathed heavily.

“Then what is it” Robotnik gritted.

Stone lifted the man's chin to look at his face, his eyes were looking down still. He looked embarrassed, an emotion that surprised Stone. He decided that he needed to be truthful to him.

“I love you, you are inspiring, and I think you are brilliant,” he waited for a response before continuing. Robotniks breathing slowed but there was no reply. “No matter what you think about why I’m complimenting you I will always answer the same, Because I adore you.”

“Sycophant.” he huffed, the remark made Stone give him a warning look of “I will pour my heart out to you again”. He looked up at Stone on his lap “Finnne,” he groaned.

Yet again his collar was grabbed and dragged down by Robotnik who pulled him into a passionate kiss, Stone nearly jumped out of his skin. He pushed Robotnik back onto the chair, holding his head and feeling the muscles in his neck twitch with each movement. After catching their breath Stone felt victorious, he was flushed red but not as much as the one beneath him.

“I, don’t do this, often,” Robotnik confessed. He looked at the time “It is ten I’ll drive you home.”

“Are you sure?” Stone worried.

“Yes, I need my barista on his game tomorrow.” He let out a smile. “I will bring my mug.”