Gold Dust Woman (Stanford Pines x OC)

11.) Close to You

break my heart and start a fire you've got me overnight, just let me be close to you

  "So, Sixer, how's our little project coming along?" Bill's voice slithers through the air, a mix of eagerness and impatience. Ford doesn't look up, his focus on the intricate calculations sprawled across the page.

  "We're making progress, but these things take time. The portal is far more complex than we anticipated." Ford hums.

  "Time, time, time—that's all you ever say! We could've cracked this thing wide open by now if you'd just let go of your precious rules and limitations." Bill scoffs, floating closer.

  "Bill, I'm pushing the limits as far as they can go. This isn't just some experiment; it's a doorway to an entirely different dimension. We can't afford mistakes." Ford sighs, setting down his pen.

  "Mistakes are how you learn, Fordsy! And you know what I've learned? You're holding back. You're still tethered to this pathetic reality, worried about what might happen if you let go. But imagine what we could do if you unleashed your full potential!" Bill's eye narrows, his form crackling with impatience.

  "It's not that simple. There are consequences—" Ford's jaw tightens.

  "Consequences? Pfft, what are you afraid of, Sixer? Losing a little sleep? Maybe losing touch with reality? Or is it something else..." Bill's voice lowers, dripping with insinuation. "...someone else, perhaps?"

  "I told you before, Bill. Celia is off-limits. We're here to work on the portal, not talk about her." Ford's eyes snap to Bill, giving a warning.

  "Ah, yes, the lovely Celia. Tell me, Sixer, what's it like splitting your time between unraveling the mysteries of the universe and playing house with little miss perfect? Seems like a waste of your talents if you ask me." Bill grins, leaning in closer, his voice oozing with mockery.

  "This isn't up for discussion. You've given me knowledge, Bill, but my life outside this project is my own." Ford tries.

  "Your life? Your life? Sixer, you wouldn't have this life without me! I've given you everything—power, understanding, the chance to transcend your limitations—and yet you run off to play house instead of embracing your destiny!" Bill's eye flickers dangerously.

  "I'm not just your puppet, Bill. I have a life beyond this, I'm married for fucks sake and you knew that when you chose me." Ford shrugs.

  "Oh, I see how it is. You're going to leave all this behind for her. Again." His voice turns venomous. "But tell me, Sixer, what would you do if she knew everything? If she knew how deep you're in? You think she'd stick around?"

  "You don't know her like I do, Bill. You don't know her at all. She's a strong girl, she'll be fine." Ford shakes his head.

  "Oh, I'm sure she is," Bill sneers. "But you've tied yourself to me, and there's no backing out now. You need me, and deep down, you know it. Without me, you're just a lost little boy playing with science kits."

  "I won't let you drag her into this," He says, his voice low.

  "Anyway, back to the portal! It's so close, imagine the power, the knowledge we'll gain—if you'd just stop holding back!" Bill goes back to his usual self.

  "We're making legitimate progress. I just need more time." Ford exhales slowly, trying to regain his composure. He shuts the notebook and reaches over to grab his house keys.

  "Time's a luxury you don't have, Sixer! You're either all in or you're out—and I think we both know you're not ready to walk away from this." Bill's patience wears thin, and he finally snaps.