When Ozzie Met Fizze

There's Something About Froggie

The next morning I find myself pacing the length of my office, my mind a tumultuous storm of conflicting thoughts and emotions. Fizz was on his way to my Ring, and while a part of me was excited at the prospect of his arrival, another part was fraught with apprehension and doubt.

After finalizing the deal last night, Mammon promptly ended the call, citing other pressing matters to attend to. He assured me that official documents would be forthcoming soon and mentioned that Fizzarolli would pack his belongings that night, and arrive sometime around 10 the next day... Fizz responded with a simple nod, his demeanor hinted at an underlying sense of unease.

I want Fizz to feel welcome, to understand that for me this wasn't merely a transaction orchestrated by Mammon and myself. But for him... How could I convey that without… overwhelming him?

Glancing around my office, I sought inspiration amidst the familiar surroundings. My gaze lingering on the expansive windows, offering a view of the bustling streets below. Perhaps a change of scenery would help.

With resolve, I make my way to the residential suites within the building. One had been prepared for Fizz already, a gesture aimed at ensuring his comfort from the moment he arrives.

Stepping into the elegantly furnished space, I survey the room, excitement was tempered by uncertainty. Would Fizz find solace here, or would he feel ensnared, a pawn in someone else's game? I dismiss my doubts, reminding myself of my intentions—to act in Fizz's best interests, not just my own.

With a steadying breath, I set about arranging the room. Every detail mattered; first impressions were crucial, particularly in such delicate circumstances.

“Don’t you have someone that would do that for ya?” A sudden presence at the entry of the room jolts me, causing me to jump in surprise. Fizz stands there, his expression nervous, but he couldn't help but smile at the sight of my startled reaction. A small bag hanging over his shoulder.

"O- You startled me!,” I chuckle, catching my breath, “Time seems to have slipped away from me today," I remark, finishing fluffing the pillow I was holding before turning my attention to him. "Did you find your way here without any trouble?"

"Yeah..." I notice him glancing around the room, his uncertainty palpable. Closing the distance between us, I see him tighten his grip on his bag, a clear sign of apprehension. Swallowing my own feelings, I press on, hoping to provide him with some reassurance during this transition.

"I'm glad to hear that.” A pause, “ Well, This is your new place”, I gesture to the space, “Anything you don't care for can be removed or replaced. And if there's anything else you need, just let me know, and we can take care of it," I assure him. Proceeding with a small tour of the apartment.

He remains relatively quiet, observing me as we navigate the space. We eventually circle back to where we began.

"And that's about it," I conclude. "I'm on the top floor, and my suite always remains unlocked. So if you need anything, you're welcome to come in."

It's a casual remark, something I say to the new resident arrivals without a second thought. Knowing they would likely never take up the offer. Yet, in this moment, my own emotions become entangled in the words, and I briefly wonder how they might be perceived. What would happen if he were to take up the offer… Sensing my momentary fluster, Fizz seizes the opportunity.

"Right... right, easy to sneak in—got it," he grins, adding, "Though I'm pretty noisy, so I'm sure people will catch on..." His less-than-subtle innuendo causes me to blush slightly, flashes of my dream from the other night invading my mind.