Cage Of Bones

Chapter 21: Salty Brownies

Author's Note- Wanted to get this out by Valentine's Day, but alas I was not quick enough. Hope you enjoy regardless! :D

Trigger warning(s)- Uncensored language, implied performance anxiety, and implied trauma.

(Updated Edits On 12/28/22)

---

"...so PLEASE just keep an eye on him and show him the ropes okay?" Latte finished, her eyebrows furrowed with worry as the surprised expression refused to leave Mocha's face.

"I-I guess. But I still don't understand why. Aside from that moment with his ex he's been drawing in customers better than even Vanilla! He's only been here a week or so and he's one of our best employees. Why do you think he should be on kitchen duty with me tonight when he's better suited for customer service?" he asked.

Latte gave a concerned expression as she glanced toward the dining area of the cafe. She could see Vanilla and Papyrus bustling about, tending to customers and cleaning tables. However, while Vanilla had her usual cheerful smile and joy while she worked, Papyrus didn't seem to have as much energy. He seemed to have completely shut off, going through the simple motions as if he were a robot. His face was blank and his eyes were empty. The skeleton she had hired had clocked out, and she couldn't tell when he was going to clock back in.

Latte gave a long sigh before responding.

"Mocha...I know he hasn't been here long, but it's CLEAR that he's been off his game lately. It's like every time he walks in he's worse than he was before. And Vanilla told me he had a bit of an outburst a few nights back. I'm really worried about him and being around people doesn't seem to be an improvement to his mood. Maybe if he spent a night away from people...it could help. I know you don't know each other well, but I trust you to help him out. Just...try. For me. Okay?"

Mocha thought for a moment as he glanced back at Papyrus. He felt his soul shudder slightly when he saw the blank slate that stared back. It was as if his energy was being sapped the more people he talked to. He recognized that look...it was a look he himself usually wore. Seeing it on the skeleton though...it was frightening.

"Consider him my temporary assistant." Mocha finally said, turning to his older sister with a nod.

Latte smiled in relief.

"Thanks Mocha. I promise to make it worth your while. Hey Papyrus! Report to the kitchen after you finish serving the next customer! You're working with Mocha tonight!" she called.

Papyrus' eyes widened in confusion before he sighed and gave a curt nod.

"Alright..." he said, his voice soft and emotionless as he poured some coffee.

Latte patted her brother's shoulder as she returned to the cash register.

"Good luck bro."

Mocha gulped as he began to walk to the kitchen, Papyrus trailing close behind.

'Thanks sis...looks like I'll need it...' he thought to himself as he opened the door.

---

Papyrus didn't know what to expect when he walked into the kitchen. He hadn't needed to go back there at all since he began working at the cafe, so when Mocha lead him into a tiny kitchen with appliances whirring softly and trays of food either cooling off or being prepared to be baked, all he could feel was wonderment.

"Whelp, this is where the magic happens." Mocha joked with a nervous laugh.

"What do you think?"

Papyrus couldn't shake the shocked look off of his face.