Silly dexdark oneshot

Firstly: I do not own any of these characters.
Also: This fic is very likely to be badly written as english is not my first language. So, I hope it's readable or whatever :)

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The vast laboratory rested in harmonious silence, save the ocasional "click" and "buzz" from the functioning machinery.

In the center of the room, at opposite sides of the center counter, sat the two local genii.

It had gradually become an habit for the two teens to meet after school and do their homework together since they decided to call a truce on their arch-enmity. It was a very productive arrangement, really. The usual discordance between the pair often ended up being beneficial to their learning, as their debate would lead them to further research as well as to understand the study topic with a lot more depth.

Maybe it was the sheer urge to outdo (and perhaps to impress) each other that stimulated them to be better.

Usually, Douglas would tag along and do his homework with them but, that specific day, he couldn't make it as he was on babysitter duty, looking after some small cousins of his.

So, homework long finished, Dexter - proud owner of the mentioned lab - was currently engrossed in a new experiment, taking turns between looking into the microscope and taking notes on his observations. Meanwhile, at the opposite end, Mandark quietly read a book about astrophysics. It was a complex subject, but one he really enjoyed learning about.

The silent atmosphere is suddenly broken by a satisfied hum from the redhead, who was now mouthing words to himself as he scribbled some more notes. It wasn't uncommon for him to talk to himself whenever he got absorbed in his studies, observed Mandark, momentarily distracted from his reading.

It was fascinating, he thought, how that boy he once considered his nemesis could now be so comfortable in his presence.

The raven haired boy basked in the sight of careful gloved hands, switching slides and readjusting the microscope lenses, noticing that curious glint in his eyes, that one glint that stated his undeniable passion for science. Mandark knew very well that look, for he sported it himself everytime he made a discovery, and everytime he build something new.

He found it strangely blissful to observe the young genius work. Almost as if he was watching a reflection of himself. 

"What if we had started it in a better way? What if I had never enjoined him to shut down his lab? What if he'd never sent Deedee to destroy my lab? What if we didn't spend so much time, all these years, sabotaging each other?... Perhaps we could have gotten along from the very beginning?" He mused.

"If only you two hadn't had such fragile egos…" Answered an annoying voice from the back of his mind. 

"Curse that conscience thing, trying to make me act like a decent human being…" Grumbled Mandark to himself, catching Dexter's attention.

The tallest boy flushed slightly, under Dexter's inquiring gaze.

He searched for words. He couldn't find any. His mind still in turmoil, caused by being caught by his former enemy during a moment of softness. 

Mandark cleared his throat. "Dexter...?" He started.

"Yes?" Answered the shorter boy with puzzlement. Mandark hardly ever called him by his name, rather calling him Dork, Dorkster, Doodoo head and other very silly, slightly comical insults (which varied depending on the taller boy's inspiration).

Mandark slowly put his book down as he mumbled an inaudible answer.

"Uh- could you... please... repeat what you said?" Asked Dexter, further puzzled by the other's attitude. 

"I apologise" The taller genius repeated with struggle "for- you know- for trying to destroy your laboratory. And for trying to hurt you in the past. On multiple occasions."

"As well as for stealing those inventions and- ngk-" He continued with growing embarassment "you- YoU kNoW wHAt I'm TaLkiNG AbOUt!"

"Oh" Dexter stared in surprise. Even though the two of them were in good terms now, it was very uncommon for Mandark to express his care for his friend through words. "In that case, you're forgiven." He answered softly.

"Good." Answered the brunette, still uneasy. It was a difficult task, to get over his pride.

"I suppose I should apologise as well" started Dexter "for the destruction of your lab… It sure wasn't a very diplomatic move of my own."

The redhead also struggled to find words. "My pride hurts" he thought. "Hurting your pride is better than hurting your friend, though." He sighed.

"I mean, I know I've been no saint all these years" He continued "so, I apologise- for all harm I have caused you. Forgive me?" He finished with a tentative smile.

Mandark stared blankly at his friend. He wasn't really expecting him to react like this but damn if it didn't feel great. The truth is, the destruction of his old laboratory had been a huge trauma and, to hear Dexter's honest apologies… It just felt right. 

"Hmm… I shall consider your offer." the brunette pretended to ponder, already back to his usual pettyness. Dexter resisted the urge to roll his eyes at that.

"Since you asked so nicely… I forgive you." Mandark then added softly. "This time."

"Good." Dexter mimicked his friend, his lips curling up as he spoke.

"Good." Assented Mandark one last time before picking up his book to hide his own smile.

And just like that, the lab was filled once again with comfortable silence.