T3Nsion at the Space Resort part 2

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I led them down to the vault and show them the makeshift lab area. Signing "As you can see, it's all state of the art technology and well-kept Lounge areas for your pleasure."
It was Charles that seemed to be translating for me now to the general.
"Then I suspect there will be no problems with the scientists doing their work."
"Of course Sir!" I froze, stopping in my tracks. That time I spoke. Clearing my throat, I got back to signing "I promise you, no one will get close to your Sapphire." I saw Charles staring at me like in my dreams he seemed to sparkle in the cool lights. Feeling my cheeks burn red hot, I turn my head; hoping he can't tell I'm blushing like an idiot. Damnit. I need to control myself! "Next, is where you're men and women will be staying. Follow me." I sign, leading them down a corridor.
"Gotta admire the architecture." Spoke Charles.
I sign "yes. The Toppats had a flare of class when they built the space station. We keep it well maintained."
"Can't wait to see more on my breaks." The pilot beamed.
I chuckle with a smile that wasn't faked. "Glad to hear it." I sign once more.

We arrived at the rooms chosen for the military. "Let me know if there's anything I can help you with."
"Thank you, Stickmin." Voiced the General.
"My pleasure. I supplied maps of the whole station for your workers in your rooms. And... Mr.Price?" I sign as Charles translates.
I catch Rupert off guard with knowing his name. He thought I couldn't hear his grumbling the whole time. "I think the bar 1 floor down would be of interest to you? I'll even give you a coupon for a free drink." I take out a slip of paper and write on the back, then hand it to the black-haired, angry Pomeranian; flashing a grin.
"What? You think you can make up for all the shit you pulled with a smile and some cheap booze?" Rupert paused. "Well, it's a start." He walks into the men's quarters.
"Well, nice to meet you properly this time! Heh." Charles says. "I should unpack my things so I'll see ya later."
I nod and sign. "I'll most likely be on the top floor if you need anything." I wanted to say more. But I already wasted enough time. Besides, it's crazy, right? He wouldn't be interested in... Me? We're friends in other timelines... But not this one.

Narrator:
Later on, Rupert made his way down to the bar, reluctantly yet thirsty. He read the coupon Henry gave him and noticed a note on the back,
Take an extra break. Captain's orders! ;P ~Mr.Stickmin
"Must be for the bartender. Hmph." Rupert looked up to take in the room. Rustic stained oak and dark red velvet seating and draping made it look very high-end. Rupert wasn't for such class but would be lying if he said he wasn't impressed.
Sitting down at the bar he flags down a bartender. "Crown Royal whiskey on the rocks please."
"Yes, sir." Rupert squinted at the familiar voice. "Wait... Rupert?" He looked up to see a long white-haired man with golden eyes and the brightest smile he knew too well.
"D-Dave?! Oh my god! How... How are you here?" The soldier smiled for the first time in forever.
"Well uh... I was a prisoner of the Toppats but, once Henry took control of the space station, he offered me a job! I was probably gonna get fired from the museum anyways, heh." Dave explained in a self-deprecating manner. "Anywho, that's $7.80."
"Oh! Right." Rupert gave Dave the coupon and he looked it over.
"Looks good. And I guess I'm going on break! Mind if I spent it with you?" The bartender smiled and blushed noticeably.
"Y-Yeah. Sure." Rupert swiped any dirt off the clean bar stool next to him and Dave joined him.
They ended up talking for half an hour, before retreating to Dave's private room.

Meanwhile, in one of the break rooms, Sven and Burt were snuggled up to each other.
"I can't believe we're playing host to those nülling gov't agents now." Sven hissed.
"Supposedly they brought a powerful gem to be studied, away from prying eyes." Burt pecked Sven's cheek, which made Sven relax a little.
"Really? Hmm." The blonde smirked with a new idea in mind. "Maybe we should take a gander."
But he was thinking of doing more than just looking at the Sapphire. He thought this could be leverage to get the clan back from servitude.

Henry pov:
The day was going well so far. No Karen's to deal with, no machines malfunctioning and the scientists were beginning to study that stone. Hopefully, they don't touch it. I took a stroll past the lab and saw Charlie is on the first guard shift. Hiding behind a corner, I watch him.
"Stop being crazy, Stickmin!" I thought to myself. "Why would he even want to be my friend?" I didn't realize I spoke that part. But Charles did.
The pilot stood up aiming his rifle. "This is a restricted area. Leave."
I cover my mouth and peek at him. He rests his rifle.
"Oh. Mr.Stickmin. Sorry about that. What are you doing here?" Charles looks at me, confused.
"Uh..." I gulp and blush, then begin to sign, avoiding eye contact. "Just checking to see how everything's going. Anything I can do to help or whatnot?"
Charles gives a little smile "Nah. It's all pretty quiet. Sorta started to drift off there. Thanks for waking me up at least! Heh."
I snicker. "When is the shift change might I ask?"
"Eh..." he looks at his watch. "Should be in less than an hour. Why? Oh, right! You wanted to give me a tour, yeah?"
I nod.
"I'll know where to find you. Don't worry. Anything else I could help you with?"
Not sure if I should say anything. Maybe I should do something? Like what!? Flirt? Give him a coupon? Maybe I should just leave.
"Well, you could always just give me your heart to make my day much more special!" Fuck. Fuck. Fuck! Why did I say that!? Why am I making goofy finger guns at him!? Wait, I spoke again! So smoothly too, it's surprising me. It surprised him as well, but I think he's more in shock that I flirted with him. Oh no. Is he not gay?! Fuck!
He stood there blushing for a moment "wow! Um... I'm sorry. Currently using it right now. But... maybe I could let you borrow it... later?"
Was that a flirt back? I think my face is completely pink. "O-Ok! Can't wait! BYE!" I bolt away, leaving him in the dust, confused at what just happened. My heart is pounding! My cheeks... hurt? I stop running and look at my reflection in the window. I'm... smiling. For real! I must be insane.

Charles POV:
Henry just asked for my heart. It's... a weird request. I played along but did I do it right? Maybe Space has made him a bit crazy. He did seem to be lonely when we got here. My cheeks feel hot for some reason and my heartbeat... It's deafening. I crack a smile. "Maybe this trip won't be so bad."

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