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Chapter Text

Nolan had felt a great sense of satisfaction watching the once-leader of the Institute of Perfection receive his due comeuppance.

After all the thousands of times he'd sent thousands of fellow dolls through the rigorous punishment of that washing machine, it had only seemed fitting that Lou be given the same treatment once his true manipulative nature had been revealed. It had been a stroke of ironic genius on Nolan's part to suggest it, he would say, particularly after being singled out and having his emotions toyed with more than any other doll in the batch he'd been born into.

No one else had been given quite so long a list of flaws to work on, nor had anyone else been so graciously donned with a giant sign around their neck proclaiming them “Ugly!” Yet as well no one had had so many instances of Lou singling them out for motivational speeches, or saying he loved them...before tacking on that he loved all of them in his training course, but still, there had been that brief second where Lou had undoubtedly suggested a personal favoritism in front of everyone, and it had made Nolan feel very special. Even the girl rabidly obsessed with Lou, Tuesday, could not get the gorgeous blonde to so much as look at her, and here Nolan had earned a love confirmation simply by asking for clarification on Lou's musical number during initiation.

Needless to say, the mixed bombardment of sweet talk and insults had had a tug of war with Nolan's emotions, but The Gauntlet finally tipped the scale when Lou quite instantly declared Nolan as good as dead when he was snagged by the robot dog portion of the test, even acting as though he couldn't feel Nolan's hand grabbing his face in a desperate plea for assistance.

Yes, that had tipped Nolan's feelings rather sharply towards bitterness, betrayal, and even a sting of disappointment he wasn't sure should be as large as it was. As such, watching that flawless blonde hair get rinsed of its perfectly styled swoop, and that crisp, sleek, form-fitting black suit get rumpled by endless circles of rushing water torrents was immensely cathartic. While the other dolls pieced the portal to the Big World back together, Nolan had supervised Lou's punishment.

Even after the ex-leader had stumbled his way dizzy out of that oversized washing machine, the brown-haired boy had watched as Lou was now the one responsible for cleaning up The Gauntlet, sweeping up the mess from the vacuum that had exploded after he'd sacrificed Tuesday and resetting the entire human-house-sized obstacle course.

It had been wildly satisfying...until suddenly it wasn't.

Nolan had been about to head over to the restored portal to check it out, mechanic bots now having restructured it properly compared to the slapdash job of the dolls simply piecing it together like puzzle pieces, and maybe even consider giving the Big World a peek, when his attention was caught.

Looking down, he quirked a brow at himself and wondered aloud, “Why am I even still wearing this?”

Throughout everything since his arrival, he'd been wearing that stupid “Ugly!” sign...somehow he just kept forgetting it was there.

He was about to finally take it off when something else snagged his attention: crying.

It was faint, but definitely there. Sniffling and the most quiet of choked sobs, like they were trying very hard to keep themselves stifled. They were coming from around the corner of The Gauntlet, on the wall where the back door would be.

All at once the pit dropped out of Nolan's stomach in a wave of icy guilt. Instinctually, he had an inkling as to who the source could be, and even if he knew he probably shouldn't feel guilty, he did. He felt mean, no better than Lou, and sharp sense of natural compassion. He felt his legs move.

Rounding that corner confirmed the guess. There Lou was, sitting heavily on the fake back steps of the fake house, gingerly hovering his fingertips at the ends of his now heavily-tousled blonde locks, almost like he was afraid touching them would ruin them further but also clearly wanting to fix them. His hand mirror was held in front of him, which he glared at in an equally imbalanced blend of anger and devastation, trying to regain some semblance of composure.

Nolan felt worse. Lou might have been a jerk, but he didn't deserve...that. That looked meek, afraid and uncertain. That looked like he was at a total loss. It was so wrong to see on a doll who had been nothing but the most self-assured, confident and sharp-tongued a doll could be, laughing when his plans went awry and always having a back-up ready to go. Who knew he even had such vulnerable feelings under all that cocky projection?

“Lou..?”

The timid utterance of his name caused Lou to jump a foot in the air, tense sharply and send his wide, tear-stained eyes snapping for the one who had uttered it. He'd thought everyone had finally gotten their fill of vengefully humiliating him for today, especially the one who'd gotten the ball rolling. He thought he'd been free to let these emotions go.

“Gah-hh!” In a flash, Lou scrambled a thousand times harder to mask his face reddened from crying and how his posture had been slacking. Fumbling and nearly dropping it, he stuffed the mirror back home inside his breast pocket and sat stiffly, hands out on his knees trying to regain that naturally regal air he usually had. He would have fled, but he doubted he would get far after the grueling exercise his punishments had provided. As well he was just too emotionally drained to try.

“What do you want?” he attempted to say in a haughty tone, though the panic was quite evident, “Thought of something else you want me scrub?”

Not having been born yesterday anymore – that day now several weeks behind him – Nolan ignored the posturing and pressed, “Lou, why are you crying?”

“I'm not crying!” Lou insisted, “I'm just...pouting! Because I lost and you make me do all these stupid chores! I'm red because I'm hot! And my eyes...my eyes are sweating!”

Nolan put one hand on his hip and tilted his head, shooting the other an unimpressed expression. All of that was bologna. Even the part about being put to work. Lou had never shown aversion to putting in labor, so it was beyond belief that just that could move him to tears, even if he hadn't done it voluntarily. Lou was not actually that immature.

Lou's gaze faltered, flicking off to a few random spots in the arena surrounding the house as his spine shrank slightly. He sniffed and in less than a second his knuckle had flown to wipe his nose before that hand was back in place on his knee.

Nolan sighed sympathetically. Of course Lou would be defensive. Not only was it in his character, he probably didn't want to open up to the one responsible for kicking off the whole washer thing. Coming forward, he noted Lou stiffing back up as he joined him on that stoop, having a seat beside him.

“Lou, I...” Reaching to put a hand on the other doll's shoulder, Nolan instead bumped the sign around his neck as he moved his arm and grunted in annoyance, cutting himself off.

The blonde quirked a brow at that sign, gladly taking the opportunity to derail his interrogation and simultaneously ask a legitimate question. “Why are you even still wearing that thing?” It served no real purpose after his musical number, and he'd actually been wondering for a while now. Besides, one would think liberation would lead to discarding things like that first and foremost.

“I have no idea,” Nolan admitted, “I was actually just thinking about that. I guess I just keep forgetting about it.”

“And here I thought you were some kinda masochist or something,” Lou rolled his eyes, “But no, you're just a space case. Well now you're annoying me.” Pointedly, he grabbed the sign and yanked it over Nolan's head, then flinging off into obscurity like a toy disc. “There. Now it's gone forever. You're welcome.”

Nolan blinked. Then he tutted and couldn't help a small endeared smile. “Thank you. Does that mean you don't think I'm ugly anymore..?” he then teased. Maybe a little humor would warm the other up.

The expression Lou made was very strange. He partially wrinkled his nose, partially widened his eyes and a new wave of blush unrelated to tears appeared as he leaned back on his hands away from the other boy, knees tipping inwards. Next his brow fell into a grumpy furrow as he hunched back over, putting his elbows on his knees and looking away in another pointed gesture.

“What kind of stupid question is that? It doesn't even matter what I think anymore anyway, does it? You all got your way. Ugly is in now. I'm ugly!” His hands came up to clasp his temples in stress, eyes now crushing closed.

Ok, humor had not had the desired effect. Watching the blonde hunch and show some of that pain he'd stumbled in on, however, Nolan did see a start towards what was making Lou so upset. “Huh? Maybe you don't look perfect anymore, but that doesn't make you ugly..! I hardly think one little ride through the washer is going to--”

“Don't you get it?!” Lou burst, “Perfect looks is all I had left!” Suddenly he was facing Nolan, a sharp glare in his eyes, fresh tears brimming. He didn't want to be showing this side of himself, but it had already been on a hair trigger when Nolan had decided to butt in.

Now Nolan was taken aback, leaning back slightly with a surprised blink this time. “Wh-What do you mean..? I thought you were just using your looks to gain power...Ox said--”

“Ox doesn't know anything about my feelings!!” Lou interjected again, “And neither do you! Why do you think Ox and I fell apart in the first place?! It's easy to be happy when you're a reject! Once I helped him escape the judgement of this place, all he had to do was set up his own happy little village all the way on the other side of the factory, away from all his troubles, and pretend the Institute didn't exist!”

The other's brow furrowed now, trying to understand. It still sounded vain to him on Lou's part, but he decided to stay quiet, hoping Lou would continue clarifying on his own.

He did. “Ox found more rejects! He kept them blissfully unaware of this place, of the Big World altogether! He got to be happy! Without Ox, I had nothing to keep me happy! The dolls here all passed through in the blink of an eye, and I just had to watch! I'm a prototype, Nolan! You heard that! I can't go to the Big World! Instead, I have to live here, a flawless doll destined to never be loved, created only to train others to leave me! To fulfill dreams I never can! I was created with love in me too, you know, but I can't have it!” Lou's face pinched as he registered the hot flowing streams of tears that had begun anew. Well, by this point stopping them was impossible, and Nolan had certainly seen them, so he chose to stubbornly press forward instead. Maybe at least he could finally get someone to realize what they were doing to him.

“Do you have any idea what it's like to watch that every single day of your life?” the blonde challenged, “To have to partake? I would dare you not to get a little bitter.” His face hardened at the memories, but it only managed to accentuate the pain of them. “So I cracked down. I made the training harder. I added more and more courses. I had the looks, yes, so I used those as well. Anything to get dolls to stick around just a little longer. Maybe I would finally meet one who'd want to stay here instead, y'know? One like me.”

He shook his head. “No. You all leave. I worked so hard. I broadened my horizons, really leaning on the reputation I was building with looks and charm, trying to fill that loveless void with the admiration of crowds of dolls..! It was never enough. It never lasted. Was never real. I trained too, making sure I never got a single stain in the desperate hope that I might get my chance someday even without other dolls. I could never let myself slip up even for a second, honing my strength and reflexes perfectly. I could never even have any fun, the fear of ruining myself and my dreams always nagging in the back of my mind. Before I knew it, preserving my appearance had become a fixation. And somewhere along the line I just got jaded. I wanted love so badly, and yet my bitterness towards the ones that got to leave got so bad that I just began sabotaging you all.”

Nolan could feel his own eyes starting to mist a little, hearing the pain in Lou's voice and seeing the weight of the past on his face. It was unthinkable that this much struggle had been hidden in what had appeared to be such a shallow man. Ox had made very light of the situation indeed, glossing over his old friend's part of the story like it had been so black and white. “Lou...”

“You took that away from me!” Lou accused, causing Nolan to flinch. “I loved you, I hated you, just like the rest of them, but you..!” The anger faltered on his face, breaking away to show pure distraught. “You took the one thing I had left to love away...without my looks, what do I have to be proud of anymore? I'm not the doll I used to be...I'm not even a real doll! I've lost everything that ever had any meaning to me, and I'll never get to move on...I'm nothing now...”

Slowly, Lou turned away and settled his forehead into his hands, elbows on his knees again. His shoulders shook clearly as he could no longer hold back the unbridled emptiness and loss he was feeling. Even telling Nolan all of this felt useless. He hadn't wanted to spill it in the first place. Add shame and embarrassment for failing to keep his darkest secrets onto the pile of overwhelming emotions.

Nolan's face was displaying a certain amount of loss as well. He very thoroughly understood why cracking a quick joke or just telling Lou to buck up was not going to work, but well...what should he do? That was the problem. This was a level of devastating emotional trauma he had not been prepared for. He could not imagine going through what Lou had been through.

And he felt like the scum of the Earth for suggesting that washer.

For as mean as Lou had been, his reasons were relatable enough to make Nolan wish he'd never spoken up. He wanted to fix it. Surely there was something that could have been different. Surely there was something that could still be done. Some way to actually help Lou instead of just punishing him for the parts he'd gotten wrong. He'd never had anyone helping him after Ox could no longer take this prissy society, couldn't get anyone, so mistakes had been made.

So maybe...Nolan could try?

If Lou would take him, that was.

Cautiously, the brown-haired boy scooted closer and leaned over, wrapping his arms snugly around Lou's slouching back and resting his head in the crook of Lou's neck. “I'm sorry, Lou,” he hushed, “I had no idea. I'm so sorry.”

The sobbing doll had very little reaction to being hugged initially, feeling the burn of his own emotions too strongly to feel much of anything for any gesture of comfort. But his cries did hitch at the apology. At first he wasn't even sure he'd heard it right, but then Nolan kept saying it, repeating it over and over.

That was enough to catch Lou's attention. He blinked, carefully looking up halfway from his hands. It was uncertain, almost like he didn't know how to trust such words. He'd bared his soul almost on total accident, hoped that doing so would make someone finally see his side for once...and it had worked? Being truthful had really worked?

Gradually, Lou's sobs quieted down to sniffling as he stared at the boy nestled against him, eyes closed and brow furrowed in sincerity. He felt the tear flow stemming once more, but now not knowing what to feel at all. Was this hug...nice? He couldn't tell. But he was grateful, he thought. Yeah. Grateful was the word. Even if Nolan had provided the final life-ruining straw that had broken him.

Sensing Lou finally calming down, as the tremors stopped at least, Nolan added one last piece to his apology. “I'd just wanted you to see what it felt like, rejection, but that's actually the feeling that made you act like that in the first place. I feel awful. I...I can't imagine your struggle, but I get it. I understand. And I want to help.”

His eyes opened to find Lou's as he retreated, puffy and puzzled looking back at him. The blonde questioned, “What is there to be done for me? I told you, I'm nothing. I'm beyond ugly. I'm worthless.”

“Oh, come on, where's the Lou we all know and love?” Nolan pressed, but upon seeing the unimpressed face of the overthrown leader, changed tactics. “Fair enough. Once loved. You can still be confident without being a jerk, though. I want to see that old you you were talking about back there. The one that could still be happy. We can start with those looks. It's not all that bad, you know, and just so happens I'm a tailor...slash model.”

Every doll in their line was assigned a name and career upon arrival, and every single one was a part-time model for some reason. But in this case the main career would actually come in handy.

Lou's attention was caught again, unable to believe what he was hearing. “You can fix my suit..?” he questioned, the faintest hint of hope creeping into the edge of his voice.

“Better than that,” Nolan encouraged, “I also happen to know a hairdresser slash model or two. I've even picked up some tricks about doll hair myself during my time here.”

This seemed to inspire a bit of life behind Lou's eyes. Turning to face Nolan fully, he picked the other boy's hands up between his in a pleading manner. “And you could get them to help me..?”

Glad to see the immediate allure of getting his appearance back having an effect, the brunette decided to go further with the idea behind his proposition. “I don't see why not! I think we could even get the other dolls back on your side. I can help you talk to them. I can help you get your side out there. I can understand how you could end up bottling bitterness and envy like that, but if you come clean and be honest – in a real way, I'm sure a lot of dolls will forgive you too. Like me.”

Turning back to face forward, Lou took his hands back to himself and clasped them against his chest now. His eyes darted in more uncertainty. “I...I don't know. I don't want to...pout eye sweat...in front of everyone.” He imagined a scene like this in front of all the dolls by what Nolan was saying. It sounded terrifying to confront them all and like it would make him look incredibly weak. But then his eyes slid back towards the boy sitting next to him. “But wait. You forgive me? Like, actually?” He'd been very mean to this one. Almost the meanest.

“Sure. Do you forgive me?”

Lou stared as Nolan offered him that soft, encouraging smile, having to process what was actually being asked of him. He'd never had to forgive anyone. He'd never thought about it. He'd just grown bitter and jaded. To forgive anyone was to break his entire mindset and practically agree to changing himself. Though...if he was honest himself...he kind of did want to change. He still wanted love deep down at heart. He'd wanted someone to understand. Nolan had, and he was actually grateful that the brunette was listening. Even if he did run Lou through the washer, even if he did leave in the end, here he was listening and trying to make things better. No one had ever offered to help Lou in any meaningful way since Ox.

Naturally that made the blonde suddenly consider that Nolan might up and abandon him when things got tough, but quickly he wrestled with those feelings and decided that trying to reclaim what he'd been missing all these years was worth it. It was what he really wanted.

Nolan had been worried Lou was just going to keep staring at him until he left, but then the other doll spoke up, in a meek but steadier voice than he'd been managing. “You know..? I think I can.” Nolan had taken everything from him, but if he could be redeemed, then maybe there was hope for Lou, too. Lou had been stealing dreams for a long time now, so he could relate to an unwitting mistake doing the same.

The other boy's smile widened. “That's great to hear. Thank you. And y'know, you don't have to cry – er, sweat – in front of anyone. You've seen the UglyDolls. A lot of them are really into being nice. Especially the pink one. I'm sure if you're just upfront about it and ask for help with your problem, you can get them to help you. Institute dolls are sure to follow if we're all friends now. Who knows? We might even find a way to get you into the Big World.”

Lou's eyes swept the other up and down, face expressing surprise and doubt hearing that wild claim, but he saw no bluff in Nolan's words. The freckled one actually believed there was potential for Lou's dream.

Nolan nodded. “You're not horrible. And you're resourceful. I'm sure you can turn things around. I want to help, too. Maybe we can even make things better with Ox. Wouldn't it be nice to have your best friend again? Your brother?”

Lou's eyes shifted again. It sounded nice and all, but that was too much to think about right now. No way the UglyDolls' leader would simply forgive him as quickly as Nolan. They had a lot more history. But there was something else the blonde wanted to question anyway. “How exactly do you plan to help? You keep saying 'we'...you're planning on staying here more than just helping me get cleaned up..?” That's what it sounded like.

Now Nolan's eyes took a shy dip to the side as he half-shrugged. “Well...sure. I want to see you get better, and I don't want to just leave you to struggle alone again. That's what got you into all this. That wouldn't make sense. I'll stick with you, help you be liked again, take back leadership of the Institute, and make sure you do it right this time.”

The other doll's head tilted slightly as he scrutinized this seemingly sudden devotion. “But...why would you do all that? Why would you want to stay with me? Don't you want to go to the Big World with all your friends or whatever?” He gestured vaguely in the direction of the portal that dolls had been swarming around for days now.

Dipping his own head in a wishy-washy kind of way, Nolan replied, “Ehhh, to be honest, I don't think I'm ready for the Big World.” Seeing Lou blink he confirmed, “I might have been great enough at the courses to get to The Gauntlet my first week, but well, you're actually right about a lot of hazards out there. I'm actually worried that some other dolls might be rushing through that portal before they're ready too.” He sent the direction Lou had gestured a wary glance, not going into full detail to avoid an 'I told you so' .

Tough as Lou might have been on everyone, the Big World was still full of careless, clumsy children who did not always take the best care of their toys. That's why The Gauntlet existed in the first place. To ensure dolls were ready to move on. But hundreds of dolls were now just hopping through onto the Big World without even setting foot in the simulator. Their thrill of overthrowing Lou might have created a rushed lapse in judgement, as many already would end up ruined and some had even been recycled without proper preparation, a reality that was slowly dawning on those whose friends were not returning for visits. It had been Lou's purpose to prepare them, after all, despite his longing for more.

Surely they would realize soon enough that they needed a leader equipped to train them. For as buddy-buddy and integrated as the UglyDolls' method was, their method included no training whatsoever, and this other extreme was starting to prove just as bad. In that case Nolan felt like the best thing to do was to help Lou get back on his feet and be the kind of leader he'd started out as. Meanwhile on the side he could help look for a way to make Lou's dreams happen. His dream was really no different than what the UglyDolls had come here to achieve – finding love and going to the Big World – and they'd mostly succeeded, so all they really had to do was find a way past Lou's factory settings. It had to be possible.

Giving another encouraging smile to the fallen leader beside him, Nolan nodded once. “Yeah. I don't think I'd mind staying here. It's a nice place. And really, I've never hated you. You're harsh, you're hot-and-cold confusing, and you can definitely be extreme...” He nodded some more, smiling off into space before looking back to the man clearly not seeing his point. “But you have to know that intensity is part of what makes you so alluring.”

“Oh. Well...naturally!” Lou's back straightened some more and he let the backs of his knuckles grace his perfectly-molded cheek, projecting just a touch of his old aura. “Wait. Alluring? You say that like you're still into me. Are you one of my fanboys? Is that why you want to do this? You just want an excuse to be near me, don't you?”

He passed a judgemental look to the other now, leaning in and letting his eyes sweep over the brunette again, doubting his intentions. Nolan just shrank back, embarrassed.

“W-Well...I'm not a fanboy per se...” he said truthfully.

“Uck, good!” Lou rolled his eyes. “If there's one kind of love that gets annoying, it's that kind. Fans. I love the attention of course, and those types do make for good minions, but it does get old, particularly when they only seem to communicate through mindless shrieks and fainting.” A modest beat where his eyes slid to the side again briefly. “And it never fills the hole.” Probably why he got so fed up with it. Fans still had plans to abandon him, no matter how much they declared their love. They still left and were nothing like the real relationships Lou longed for.

Straightening back up and putting resolve back on his face, the blonde declared, “I still want them back of course! It's the only kind of love I can get! I just mean I don't want one of those airheads running my empire with me! Or, well...” He passed another sweep of his gaze over Nolan, trying to assess. “Is that what you're saying..?”

Nolan let an involuntary tut escape. Lou's not seeming to know how to handle kindness was endearing to the brunette, but Nolan was also unsure if he'd meant something that grand himself. He might as well have with his suggestion.

“I do want to help you,” he confirmed, “If you want me to help that closely, I wouldn't mind that either. Like I said, I don't think I'd be against staying here. I admit I've done my fair share of crushing on you, same as probably everyone...” His eyes averted shyly there for a moment. “And as well I felt betrayed, same as everyone. I'd actually felt very emotionally manipulated and was not liking you very much at all recently. But it's after talking to you here and now that makes me want to stay most of all. I feel like I'm actually learning something about you, and well, I think I like what I'm seeing of the real Lou more than any of that posturing song and dance.”

Now Lou's stiffness was out of puzzle as he quirked his brow and leaned back on his hands. Nolan was forgiving him and wanted to help him so in-depth because of this conversation? This moment was what turned things around? This humiliating, raw and genuine conversation that revealed how imperfect Lou really was? Nolan liked Lou's openness, and liked him despite what an absolute broken mess he was?

The blonde supposed that was a point towards Nolan's about talking to others with honesty getting them on his side...but he was also far too busy being aware of a warm glow igniting in his torso. That was more than gratitude. That was...fuzzy? That was such an old feeling...it took a moment to realize that it was fondness. It was a snag of connection. It made Lou blink to register that someone new had just triggered that inside him, someone he'd even been bitter towards, just by saying they appreciated him flaws and all.

“This,” he said perplexed, still in disbelief while raising a hand to indicate his horribly mussed hair and bloated face still stained from crying. “You like...this.”

It was once again endearing to watch Lou experience the benefits of honesty. After operating so long under a mask, being flawless on the outside but ugly in the worst way inside, of course he couldn't fully process why this was refreshing to Nolan, why baring his flaws made him seem like a real person. It was all what that pink blob UglyDoll had been preaching, but it was likely going to take time for Lou to really get it.

“Well, yeah,” Nolan returned, reaching for the hand Lou had up and lowering it with his palm over the back of it. They both landed on the step between them in a show of compassion. “This is who you really are. That's always going to be better than a projection. And I can see this Lou wants to improve himself. We can do that. And meanwhile, I want to get to know this Lou. If you'll let me.”

That ancient positive feeling in Lou's chest swelled as he stared at the other, spreading up to his cheeks and making them an all-new shade of red. The light in his chest became a flutter as he became very aware of the gentle hand on his, something he'd never experienced even back when his bond with Ox had been its strongest.

This...did feel like it filled the hole.

Nolan hadn't expected to see that type of expression form, but quickly realized he might have been a little too soft for Lou's liking. The way Lou stared sent a wave of embarrassed wiggly feelings through Nolan's stomach and he quickly moved to let go of the other's hand – Why had he even thought that was a good idea? - but his breath hitched when Lou pushed his own hand forward to hook Nolan's and prevent it from escaping. Nolan's brow went up.

“You'll want to leave, though...right?” Lou's brow had hardened slightly. A desperation was clear behind those eyes. As positive as the surge of strange feeling in his belly was, he was also afraid of it. “As soon as I'm fixed, you won't feel guilty anymore. You'll have helped me and want to go to the Big World. Right?”

Sympathy poured onto Nolan's face. Was Lou actually alright with him wanting to get to know him? Was he also that afraid about trying to reach out again? Nolan needed to do his best to explain without upsetting the man. “I don't know if I'll want to go to the Big World,” he said honestly, but seeing Lou's face tighten hurried to go on, “But even if I do, it doesn't effect what I think about you. I won't just run off as soon as I've fixed your suit. I want to be a friend to you. Whether it works or not, whether I go to the Big World or not, I'm also not going to just abandon you. If I did go through the portal, I'd come back so long as you needed me.”

He reminded, “I want to help you go through the portal too. If you wanted, I can even promise not to think about trying it until we've found that loophole for you.” Nolan was not ready for the Big World at all right now. He was feeling very strongly about assisting Lou to rebuild. But things changed. Maybe he would want to try the portal at some point. However, he also wanted Lou to know that that was ok, and that things would still work out.

Lou's eyes widened hearing that offered promise. Nolan would go so far to assure him of his intentions to cut himself off until Lou was comfortable being separated? That was...really sweet. The blonde felt his cheeks burning brighter and could not comprehend why they kept doing that, nor why as nice as the offer sounded, he felt an edge of guilt at the prospect of insisting on Nolan hold to an arrangement that would trap him here.

Looking down at the hand he'd ensnared while it tried to retreat, he understood forcing such a promise was essentially the same. Lou didn't want to be alone, but he probably shouldn't try to suffocate the first person who came along wanting to help. Besides, Nolan had said he wanted to stay. Anything else was pure speculation for the future. But Lou also didn't want to let go of that hand. He was very touched, and Nolan's persistent kindness was only making that fuzzy bubbly sensation grow. A new urge started giving him an inkling as to what he was experiencing.

“I kind of want to kiss you right now,” he stated bluntly, “Is that weird? I feel like it's weird for me.”

Now Nolan blushed, shoulders tensing as he hardly expected anything like that to come out of Lou's mouth – the Lou! Had he even heard that right? “I'm sorry, you want to kiss...me..? I-I mean it's kind of sudden, but I guess I can't really tell you what's weird for you or not...although I never thought I'd hear you say you wanted to kiss anyone...much less me..!” He'd crushed on the blonde – everyone crushed on him – but to hear Lou actually say he wanted to kiss someone..! That was even bigger than getting a specialized 'I love you'. What had Nolan ever done to be so special anyway? Besides maybe have the brass tacks to see through Lou's balogna and wish he'd be a real person.

“Me neither,” Lou agreed. Why, after being so nasty, then harshly punished, then having all of his secrets dragged out of him while looking so hideous, did he want to kiss the boy who had done most of it to him? He should hate this boy for putting him through so much misery...and he had just a good few minutes ago. But all this genuine emotion stuff and earnest kindness was like some kind of voodoo. Maybe it was because Nolan was showing him this sweetness despite all of that. He really did like seeing Lou for Lou. No one at the Institute had ever done that. At least not done so and liked it. Just recently having his true nature revealed had made the other dolls revile him.

“So we gonna?”

The question snapped Nolan out of his flushed daze. He became overly aware of the way Lou was still holding his hand and his free one came to form a timid fist at his collar. “Y-You're serious?” he gulped.

“Yeah. Hm. Yeah, you know what? Here's your way to prove you mean it. If you can kiss this...” Lou indicated his unflattering appearance again. “There's our contract. I'll believe you.”

“Oh gosh. But that's so embarrassing..!” Such a sudden and intimate test of honesty! Lou knew Nolan had been attracted to him, so if Nolan declined because he was flustered, would Lou just take that as proof that Nolan hadn't actually started liking him again? Or did Lou just want to make Nolan kiss him because he couldn't process liking a flawed doll or something?

A new thought crashed into Nolan's mind. “And wait. What about me..? You really don't think I'm ugly..?”

So far as he'd been told, Nolan had countless flaws, most obviously being features like his heterochromia and the splash of freckles across his face. But then also apparently his neck was long, his head was small, the green highlights in his hair clashed with his skin tone...so many things had been pointed out it was hard to believe none of it had been true thoughts.

Lou actually tutted there. “Let me tell you a secret, babe. I don't think any Model 12 who comes through that gate is ugly. Not ugly-ugly anyway. They're all models for Pete's sake. I obviously...used to be the finest, but the rest of you aren't...hideous.”

After a cautious self-conscious touch to his mussy hair he glanced down at the hand he held and then up to Nolan's face. “And you, well, you do make those freckles work for ya. You some kinda test run for those?” His finger circled in the air curiously as he pointed to Nolan's face. No other doll in this line had them. Not to mention the eyes. Either Nolan was one step away from being as much of a factory screw-up as the UglyDolls, or he was the first in some new radical degrees of diversifying the Model 12. Which, interestingly enough, would make Nolan a form of prototype himself. Maybe he really could relate. Maybe he would be the key to getting Lou through the system.

Nolan's face warmed some more, self-conscious about the question but also that he was being told he looked good. “Possibly..? Well I'm...flattered anyway.” Bashfully his free hand touched his cheek.

“You should be,” Lou returned slightly smug, seemingly unable to lose all of his edge. Harsh as he had been about judging appearance, Nolan easily stood out as striking. “Let me tell you another secret, since you're so freakishly good at pulling them out of me: I'm extra hard on the dolls I hate. And the ones I like.” At Nolan's stunned face only managing to saturate more in hue, he nodded. “That's right. Before I hated you, you were one of the interesting ones. And now I don't think I hate you again.” Stupid fickle emotions.

Sure that if he blushed any more his face would be in danger of melting, Nolan noticed how Lou had deviated from self-pity into what seemed to be outright flirting. It was like he was trying to convince Nolan to seal this half-formed deal with his lips. Nolan didn't know what to say. Had his willingness to support a man who wanted to change really done this much? Admittedly he felt his old feelings fluttering in his chest to see such a likable and human side to Lou, but he was just...too shy! Who just kissed somebody out of nowhere?!

Seeing Nolan's hesitation, a sliver of doubt entered Lou's face. “What's the matter? You don't like my offer?” he questioned, “I thought you were into me. This mess puts you off after all, huh?” Normally any doll claiming to want him would be clamoring by now to throw themselves at him.

Quick to dispel any further depressive thoughts or doubts telling Lou all he could be was looks, Nolan put up his hand and professed, “No! I'm sorry, I am actually...really turned on right now!” He cringed at himself, not believing he'd just blurted that out, but paved over it to continue, “I can't believe you're even hitting on me! It's not that I don't want to kiss you, either, but it's just...you were emotional, and I'm kind of emotional, and that's not how contracts usually work...I don't want you to regret it, and I mean I was only born a few weeks ago! I've never kissed anybody! It's not that easy..!”

Lou's head tipped slightly, registering that it was out of further wholesomeness that Nolan wasn't instantly stepping up to prove his point. It was sweetly considerate. But as well, Lou had less of an excuse for his own feelings if Nolan wasn't the one initiating. It was easier if he could get Nolan to kiss him, for Lou was still unsure what to make entirely of finding attraction in a man he'd so loudly and adamantly declared ugly. He wanted to probe that new feeling without showing too much commitment right off the bat. He also didn't see a kiss as moving too fast. Unfortunately, it looked like if he wanted a kiss, wanted to cement this establishment with Nolan, he was going to have to bite the bullet and show how much he wanted to keep the other around.

“I agree this inclination is a foreign concept,” the blonde proposed. He'd never felt the urge to put his lips on any fellow doll before. “But I'm not so shy. So what if I sealed the deal for us?” Nerves were erupting in his stomach, but years of smooth moves helped keep them at bay. One such move was performed now, Lou taking the hand he held and stretching the brunette's arm to pull him close, letting his eyelids fall slightly as his gaze held steady onto Nolan's. Their knees touched as Lou's other hand fell to light on the other doll's softly. “I'll promise in turn I won't regret it.”

Perhaps they were both doing a bit to learn about looking past appearances here. Nolan had seen soul underneath that prim, handsome shell of cold Lou had worn for so long, and Lou had seen past an outer layer of naturally flawed features, into a person who was genuine and kind and had real potential to help him. In this moment they each realized the depths of their own side in this emotional swell between them.

Two pairs of eyes locked shimmering onto one another, and fighting off the sudden urge to swoon Nolan reached on autopilot for Lou's shoulder. “Ok,” he heard himself relent far too bluntly. He was taken, plain and simple. He would mind least of all if staying at the Institute to aid and befriend Lou meant the chance to connect with him in an even more meaningful way. He would be honored for the chance to fill the loveless void inside the lonely man.

A triumphant sort of hum slipped out Lou's nose. What a cute reflex that had been. He stared at Nolan's lips for a split second, catching himself thinking that and hesitating to realize he actually had to break the ice now.

Before thoughts of any kind could set in, he did it. A fast peck to get it over with pressed the other doll's mouth. Still holding Nolan, Lou let his gaze turn up in thought after he'd done it, smacking his lips experimentally. Now that he'd done it...it didn't seem like as big a deal as Nolan had made it out to be. Or his own nerves had. He'd liked it. He liked the way that little bit of Nolan had come off to flavor his own lips.

With that tension struggle out of the way, Lou promptly slumped forward and claimed Nolan's mouth in a much deeper kiss, throwing his arms around the other man and pushing forward greedily.

Nolan had barely gotten a chance to register the contact the first time, but he'd still seen a burst of stars as his brow raised. So soft, so cute, such magical sparks..! Just like always fantasized..! His jaw hung slightly ajar as Lou pulled back, burning up inside and hardly believing that had even happened while it appeared Lou was deciding what he'd thought of the experience...and then Lou's opinion was made abundantly clear as he threw himself back on the brown-haired man with abandon.

Now Nolan was sure his eyebrows were in danger of disappearing into his hairline. Lou wasn't lying when he said he wasn't shy! If flames could have shot out the top of Nolan's head, he was sure they would have. He felt that small burst of flutters exploding into a hot mess of dizzying desire. He saw a whole galaxy of stars.

The flavor of dried tears did little to stem the bliss this kiss brought. Lou was clearly feeling better by the way he hummed heavily against Nolan's mouth, hands now holding the back of the brunette's head and around his shoulders.

Nolan felt himself melt against the other's fit front, letting his own hands come up to hold Lou's sides. He let his eyelids slide shut and hummed back, accepting the show of passion and wanting to reciprocate, let Lou know that he approved.

Any nerves Lou had left were gone when Nolan kissed him back. He felt a long breath slip from his nose and he melted in turn against the thin body happily clutching to him. For the first time in a long time, he began to feel a weight lifting off of his mind. He felt truly relaxed. He felt a spark of hope.

Intently, yet tenderly, the two spent a good moment kneading into one another and lapping gingerly at each other's lips. One of Nolan's hands reached up to palm Lou's salty cheek and stroke it comfortingly with his thumb. The brunette felt Lou give a small smile against him and had to return the infectious expression.

Only seconds after that, the two had to part since the kiss was hard to maintain while grinning. They spent another beat smiling dumbly and sharing an awkward chuckle with their foreheads pressed together. Nolan's thumb continued massaging Lou's cheek. “That was...nice,” he said bashfully. “I definitely still like you and want to stay here to help.”

A fond tut. “You'd better.” Leaning into the palm on his cheek, Lou noted, “And weirdly enough...I feel better. Thank you? I feel like is the thing to say? Yes. Thank you for listening?”

Another soft chuckle from Nolan. Between gratitude and enamor, clearly there was work to be done on expressing genuine feelings as they came, but it was work Nolan looked forward to. Lou was still naturally entertaining and a grand presence, and the brunette was glad he'd managed to cheer the man. “You're welcome. I'm glad to hear it. Now, come on, what say we start on getting you cleaned up?”

Slowly he moved to stand, taking Lou's hand once more to encourage him to abandon that lonely stoop. The blonde was going to feel much better getting a nice washcloth on his face, and then Nolan would take him to his place to get his suit fixed before making some calls to his stylist friends. From there Nolan would stay by Lou's side and help him address the populous of the Institute. They would set to work redeeming Lou in everyone's eyes and reforming him as the leader he'd once been meant to be.

Lou's smile was a tad nervous and wobbly, but he found that strange spark of trust lingering in his belly, telling him that he'd finally found a fresh start, a step towards his happy ending, and he followed briskly.

The two dolls trotted off in the opposite direction of the portal to the Big World, the sensation mutual that everything they needed for that happy ending was on this side of it for now.

Chapter Text

Lou was grateful that the young man leading him by the hand took the back roads to their destination, on high alert for any other dolls they might encounter. The mussy blonde would have been devastated should anyone in the Institute see him not only unkempt, but tear-stained and puffy.

Now, there in Nolan's cozy, off-yellow kitchen, Lou sat on a stool at a dark marble counter while the brunette with green hair streaks finished wringing out a large washcloth at his sink.

As Nolan turned around and offered a kind smile, approaching the seated party, Lou's eyes swept him up and down in just a hint of hesitation. His posture was already a little stiff, as he was not accustomed to being a guest in anyone's home. He'd never made much of an effort to reach out to his fellow dolls for such things as intimate visits, and wasn't entirely sure how he should act when it was not his home he was interacting with others in. As well, he was not used to anyone showing him the level of attentive compassion Nolan had while the pair had been seated on the back stoop of The Gauntlet.

In the aftermath of their conversation, and especially their kiss, Lou had simply been letting it all sink in. He still felt lighter. Better. Like everything he had shared with the other doll had been the right thing to do. But it was so foreign...so unfamiliar that he really didn't know what to do with this lighter feeling. He was practically caramelized with amazement at this sensation of progress in overcoming his many-year struggle of frustration and abandonment, simply watching what was happening next and unsure how to move forward. Nolan had offered to help, so he was going to have to be the one showing Lou what 'helping him be the leader he once was' really meant.

Seeing Lou's almost distrustful glance as he approached with the steaming warm washcloth, Nolan's smile widened as his face relaxed in sympathetic assurance. Of course Lou wouldn't know how to trust someone else to care for him. "Don't worry," he quipped, "This'll feel nice. I'm not going to smother you. Promise."

That said, he reached the cloth for Lou's cheek, the same one he'd massaged with his thumb while they'd kissed, and matched the motion, swirling a tender knead into the side of the blonde man's face and taking away the crust of bitter salty streaks.

Taken back to that moment, and feeling the comforting gesture soothe nearly a dozen times better thanks to the hot steam, Lou automatically felt his eyelids melt shut, the sarcastic remark he had planned to make dying on his lips as he simply sighed. Unexpected to both of them, his reflex was to simply tip his head into that hand. Instantly, though he could not explain why, Lou just...loved that feeling. He felt cared for. He felt safe. He felt like he could trust Nolan. All of his stress was wiped away in that moment, from the harrowing reveal of his past to the events themselves. All of it, gone.

Still, as the washcloth took its first pull away from his face, Lou opened his eyes and noted flatly, "I could have just done that myself."

Sheepishly, Nolan's smile skewed slightly and he offered the cloth forward after giving it a quick dip in a hot water dish he'd put on the counter. "Sorry. Do you want to do it..?" It had just been his instinct to wipe Lou's face for him. He could see it better. Although perhaps Lou just wanted to use the hand mirror he carried at all times or something.

Face stiffening into a mild pout, Lou glanced away, caught. "...no." He had to admit it. He was used to doing everything for himself as much as possible, and he didn't want to seem weak, but this...Nolan wasn't judging him here. And it had felt nice, just like he'd said. Always one to take what he wanted, Lou simply decided that he wanted this. Closing his eyes again, he leaned his face up a micro degree in expectation.

Nolan gave a minute tut, endeared by the curt way Lou appeared to be processing the realization that he enjoyed someone genuinely caring for him. It was nice to see some of the old, confident Lou on display. He truly must have been feeling better.

So, more than willing to continue his task, Nolan placed the cloth back to Lou's face, rubbing gently into the crook of the ex-dictator's eye, clearing his tear ducts and watching Lou's eyebrows go up. His face slacked as a reflex, but also like he was surprised to note that he was letting someone touch him so intimately. That it still felt good and he really could trust Nolan to continue being kind.

Nolan's face was fond as he worked. He was glad that he could show this jaded man the kind of benefits simply being honest and asking for help could bring. Sure, Lou hadn't meant to spill his guts as he had, but Nolan was glad that he had. No one should have to carry around such burdens as this doll before him had. Happily, he washed that pain-soaked face of its evidence, delighting in the comfort that grew there instead.

...

Face clear, Lou could admit he felt like a new doll. Everything felt fresh now. That weight off his mind and the tears washed off his face made him feel incredibly light. Dare he say almost happy. However, he was still at a loss for how to incorporate this fresh perspective, and it did not prevent him from being nervous about how Nolan's stylist friends were going to react to seeing him. Only Nolan had talked to him properly after the fiasco where he was overthrown. He could only assume the rest of the dolls retained some reservations about his presence.

Thoughts about the disgust and offense he might meet ran through his head as he sat in a bathrobe borrowed from Nolan, while the freckled tailor-slash-model toiled away in the other room, his studio, repairing the shrunken, rumpled black suit that had been split at the seams by Lou's punishing washer ride.

Lou almost couldn't believe this level of charity that had been promised to him was actually being honored. He was definitely becoming confident in Nolan's integrity. The heterochromic mouse of a doll was upholding his wholesome word so immediately after such big promises. It was...refreshing.

Perhaps his friends would be similar, then? Perhaps they were all so confoundingly receptive and endeared by this 'openness' that Nolan seemed to like so much?

He could only hope. However, he could feel himself working up a nice defensive shell as his thoughts for the worse continued, preparing for rejection in advance. This was quite a familiar feeling, as it was something he'd gone through every time a new wave of Model 12's had come through his Institute to be trained to leave him.

Nolan tried to work as fast as possible, not wanting to leave Lou by his lonesome so fresh off of a huge emotional breakthrough, but also trying to take as much care as he possibly could in repairing the damaged suit. As the one who had suggested the washer that ruined it, he felt he only owed it to Lou to make the outfit better than before, as a way to make amends.

Looking up at the sound of the door, he was surprised to see Lou shuffle in a bit awkwardly. The bathrobe dangled freely open, showing off the briefs that were all Lou had on currently quite well. It appeared the blonde man's shyness streak continued to be incredibly minimal. Nolan forced his gaze away, however, embarrassed enough for the both of them, as he asked if Lou needed something.

Lou had simply said he was...bored. His tone suggested he'd almost considered saying something else, perhaps the word 'lonely' or 'uncomfortable', but was trying to save face. He'd asked if he could sit in here while he waited, to make sure Nolan was doing his mending right, and then asked about Nolan's friends. What were they like? Should he be prepared for verbal fisticuffs?

Nolan realized leaving the other alone with his thoughts must have been getting to Lou after all, and readily agreed to letting him stay in the work area if he was more comfortable here...he just also asked that it be on the condition Lou closed his bathrobe.

Then he informed the mussy-haired man as best he could while he worked. It had to be admitted that Nolan's friends were...not the most sympathetic to Lou after he'd been outed as such a cruel-hearted ruler, but that they would be open enough to hearing him out under the right circumstances, and that Nolan would be there to help things go smoothly. Once they heard Nolan wanted to get Lou's hair repaired as a step towards helping their ex-leader's self-improvement, he was sure that they would warm up to the idea. They were nice, really.

He spoke about the two dolls that they would be going to see, suggesting that two was going to be a nice easy start to interact with. One was blue-haired boy named Marshall, and the other was a green-haired girl named Beatrice. She had orange streaks in her hair. Marshall liked the Fall and had a hobby in collecting buttons. Beatrice liked campfire cooking and petting zoos.

Lou's lips shifted as he sat and listened, normally not one to care at all about the personal lives of other dolls, but he had asked. The pair didn't sound particularly threatening. This he was glad for. As well, they were important to Nolan, so he felt compelled to take at least a portion of interest for his sake. Although...he was really more interested in the young man himself, he would have to say. The conversation already so strangely as easy as it had been at The Gauntlet, he decided to press for details on Nolan next. What did Nolan like, then? Why was he such a goody-goody?

The freckled party tutted a bit awkwardly, saying that he supposed he was just born with the will to be kind. He felt that most dolls were good deep down. But well, as for things he liked, he supposed he enjoyed dancing, reading, eating, exploring, trying new things...his favorite color was yellow.

He was touched to see Lou taking a natural interest in him. It showed that the connection they'd felt wasn't so fleeting after all. As well, talking to Lou in a more casual setting proved to be incredibly easy. Nolan hadn't been aware he could be such a chatterbox, but as the topic turned friendlier, he was much less tense and just kept finding one more thought to hop to while in the middle of another.

Perhaps he was pouncing on the pleasant atmosphere and was eager to show Lou how enjoyable a connection could be, but he just couldn't help talking about everything from the time his friends attempted to "glam up" the giant 'Ugly!' sign he'd been absent-mindedly keeping around his neck until just recently, to the fried eggs he'd had this morning that ended up looking slightly like an alien face.

Surprisingly as well, Lou did not find this nearly as mundane as he would have expected. He...liked hearing Nolan talk. When it was relaxed, he was so bright and chipper. Very endearing. He gave off a cozy vibe, even.

The most surprising thing, Lou was so wrapped up in listening that he didn't even realize he'd forgotten to talk about himself until Nolan asked. The blonde had blinked, noting he had in fact neglected to share. How unusual. He was usually his favorite topic.

In the same moment, Nolan declared that he'd completed the fix-up on the suit, and stepped back from the dressing dummy he'd been in front of to reveal the outfit's completion.

It looked better than new. Lou was at a loss for words as he scanned over every detail, crisp and perfect. He'd thrown the thing on impatiently behind a modesty screen provided, and was even more stunned to discover it was a flawless fit. In fact, it fit better than it had before. Nolan really was a professional tailor.

Lou gave himself a hug as he hummed and basked in this fit. It felt so right to be in form-fitting style again. Nolan was entertained. Then Lou lamented that there wasn't nearly enough time for him to talk about himself if they were going to go see Nolan's friends now.

Nolan simply smiled and pointed out that he could tell him on the way. The trip did not have to be as silent as the one to his home.

The smile had been returned in realization, and Lou admitted, "Well, you know I do have a flare for dancing...I should see what you've got sometime. Compare our levels." He'd inspected his nails coyly while saying this, which got a bashful chuckle out of Nolan. He caught the implication, and got butterflies just thinking about dancing with the other.

As they left the house, this time taking the front door and the main road, Lou felt some timidity return. Several dolls were out, both Model 12's and the Ugly Doll rejects, and all had a lingering gaze for him when he was spotted. Many had a curled lip or a cold gaze for him.

Feeling a familiar cold pit firming in his belly, Lou's lips pursed. Nolan really felt he could win these fickle people back over? They'd all dumped him so harshly in an instant. Yes, he'd been using them, but none of them seemed like they'd be particularly open to the truth that Nolan seemed so confident would endear him to them.

Glancing down at the free-swinging hand Nolan was not using to escort him this time, Lou decided he would like the walk better with that comfort and took it.

Nolan's brow went up and he glanced sideways at the other, but only found Lou walking tall and proud by his side, eyes determinedly forward. Nolan's own eyes dipped groundward, off to the side as he smiled shyly and also became even more overly aware of the attention they were getting, whispers of confusion and intrigue starting.

He knew he must look odd walking so casually down the street with the most famous doll in the factory and known ruthless dictator, but he wasn't exactly ashamed. He was just self-conscious. They weren't a pair you'd expect to see together on an average day, especially holding hands. But he also realized the self-consciousness must be a thousand times worse for the man who'd committed the crimes that earned him those dirty looks, even if Lou masked it well. Sympathetically, Nolan squeezed his hand. If that gave him security, he could gladly give it.

...

With a knock on the hair salon door, Nolan then opened it and peeked his head in through the crack, calling, "Helloooo..! Anybody in? Hair emergency..!"

From an archway leading into the next room, two dolls wandered in, one with mid-toned skin and blue hair, the other dark-skinned with green hair streaked with orange. They both wore expressions of puzzle before their faces lit up in twin beams. "Nolaaan~!"

Pushing the door open fully, Nolan was glad to see his friends weren't busy and came in with arms wide in reception for hugs. "Marshall; Beety~..!" All three shared a brief squeeze in greeting before the young woman questioned, "Your hair looks fine as ever, Nolan. Where's the emergency?"

With a glance behind him, Nolan waved for Lou to come in, the blonde man having hovered unsure by the door, glancing about much as he had while in Nolan's home. His nerves were getting the better of him again, and it was almost intimidating witnessing such an act of camaraderie when he knew he was currently the local Pariah.

Indeed, both stylists paused, their faces falling blankly as they witnessed Lou, star of the Institute, though in a very poor light these days, come forward to stand by Nolan's side. Both their eyes locked onto that absolute mess of hair that had been destroyed by the washer's spin cycle, before glancing over the rest of the man and registering that aside from this he practically looked like his old self. He was so clean, and his suit was immaculate.

"Lou..?"

"Wait...you want us to fix Lou's hair?"

"Wait. Nolan, did...you fix Lou up too..?"

"Yeah. His suit was not that fine last time I saw him, and I'd know that stitch work anywhere."

"Did he threaten you?"

"You better tell us if he did, boy..!"

Both stylists had crossed their arms adamantly as they sent stern expressions Nolan's way, clearly certain he was under duress.

Chuckling awkwardly, Nolan put his hands up in a mix of defense and a signal to calm the other two down. "Easy, guys. I swear, it's nothing like that. I know you've had your thoughts about Lou, but I'd also really appreciate it if you didn't make him uncomfortable right now." Clasping his own hands now in plea, he pressed, "He really needs as many friends as he can get right now--"

Beatrice snorted. "Yeah I'll bet!"

Nolan's brow sterned her way. "--and..! I would like the two of you to show him that I'm not the only doll who would be willing to show him hospitality."

He glanced toward Lou, whose face had darkened at the snide comment this 'Beatrice' had shot about him, his posture going rigid in a familiar aggressive stance. Lou's eyes flicked from her, radiating offense, to Nolan, calling doubt to his insistence about how 'nice' these people were supposed to be.

Beatrice and Marshall both blinked, sharing a small uncertain glance. The blue-haired boy questioned, "After he showed us what a manipulative liar he is..? Why would we? Are we missing something here..?"

"Yeah! And for that matter, why would you?" challenged Beatrice, "Last I knew, you liked going to watch him work off his offense."

On instinct, Nolan took a step back beside Lou and reached to grab his hand in comfort again. He could feel the blonde man riling as he was discussed so dismissively, while he was right there.

Nolan insisted, "I was wrong."

Instantly, he felt everyone's hackles lower in surprise. All eyes on him, he persisted, albeit shyly, "I think...I'm sure...that all of us are wrong. Did either of you ever stop and think about why Lou might have acted the way he did? Did you not hear him say how he's trapped here during that whole Gauntlet thing?"

Another glance between the two stylists as they let out some hemming noises. "Maybe..?" Marshall offered, while Beatrice shrugged beside him. They'd both been more focused on how immediately after that, he'd run straight to the portal, determined to destroy it.

Feeling like he'd gotten a foothold in, Nolan smiled in a spot of relief and hurried to continue his argument. "Exactly. There's a lot more to it than that, but everything that happened at The Gauntlet is something that's been building for a long time, and it's all of our faults."

He could feel everyone's gazes shifting, softening in confusion, but most of all he felt Lou's eyes burning his cheek, obviously hesitant about how much Nolan was going to say, and unsure about how he was planning to convince others to give him a chance. Nolan shifted his own eyes to give Lou a soft, assuring smile.

"None of us ever really talked to Lou, did we?" the brunette carried on, "None of us ever thought about what loving and leaving him might actually be doing. What being a prototype might actually mean."

His two friends furrowed their brows in processing here, noting the soft contact and the deeper connection the others seemed to suggest with their eyes. Something had clearly happened that they were not aware of, but Nolan's points actually made some sense, too.

Looking back to his friends, Nolan lifted Lou's hand and placed his other one over back of it. "I've talked to him. I've learned more about Lou today than I ever thought I could, and we're not happy with how things have turned out, either. I want to help him be his old self again. Not the one we knew, but the Lou he was meant to be." With one more encouraging smile towards their old leader, he gently nudged, "There's something you want to say to everyone, right? How about a practice run?"

A flash of fear crossed Lou's face, but it was only for a microsecond before he masked it with an air of stoicism. He cleared his throat and stood even taller, mind racing. He hadn't expected for Nolan to throw the conversation over to him, but he supposed this way he could ensure nothing was spilled that he didn't want revealed. But was he really ready to do this so soon? What should he say to other dolls to make them understand his position? He did not want to sob so openly as he had to Nolan. Not to every doll in town.

Eyes darting around again, they landed on the hand that Nolan still held in both of his, squeezing gently in support, and Lou let out a small breath through his nose. He squeezed back and reminded himself that he was fearless. He wanted to regain his old self, and in order to do that, he had to start somewhere. The sooner the better, really, lest he change his mind or draw into a shell of a different kind.

Other hand balling into a steadying fist, he faced the other two in the shop. "Yes." His voice was a rehearsed evenness, but the tone betrayed the alien nature of the words. "I want to say that I'm not proud of how I treated you. I was bitter, and still am, about being a prototype. Being one is...lonely."

Another small clear of the throat as his gaze took a brief dip for the floor. Beatrice and Marshall's brows went up and they blinked in tandem. This was nothing like they'd ever heard from this man. It sounded quite hard to say, and almost like he was holding onto Nolan as a crutch.

"But I want to be...better." Lou pressed forward with a single sharp nod. "I wasn't always a ruthless dictator. I still have love within me, and I want to...be able to use it...like the rest of you...again. I'm...ssssorry..?" Was that what he was supposed to say? He sounded most unsure of all as he pinched one lower eyelid and awkwardly delivered the apology.

The pair of stylists stared blankly in the next few seconds, the silence so thick it was palatable. Lou...the Lou had just spoken in a way unheard of. He was nervous, almost vulnerable, and above all...apologetic? Or trying to be.

Finally, the two in front of their ex-leader burst into laughter, hardly believing this was happening, and how pathetic the attempt at saying the word 'sorry' had been.

Lou's face immediately hardened into disbelief of his own, eyes scanning over the giggling pair in obvious offense. "Hey!" he barked, feeling his instinct to curtail disrespect surfacing, and took a step forward. "That wasn't a punchline! If you're not going to listen, then I'll...I'll personally bulldoze this place and turn it into a personal car storage lot! Would that be funny?"

Nolan grimaced as the other two trailed off their giggles and wiped their eyes. Beatrice put a hand on her hip and returned, "Get off your high horse, Louserino. I wasn't laughing at you."

The blonde looked confused again, brow still furrowed as he gave the others another scan.

Marshall straightened out of the hunch he'd been in and added, "It's just kind of funny how clearly out of practice you are at being honest. But I can tell you were."

"Call it a shock laugh," Beatrice carried on, "Though if you're really going to go for threats right off the bat, you can forget about getting your hair done."

Lou blinked and Nolan sighed in relief. To clear some of the confusion, he patted the back of Lou's hand and explained, "We're all tense. Trust me, I almost felt like laughing to break the silence, too." To his friends, he asked hopefully, "But you mean it, right? You'll fix him up?"

Coming forward, the two stylists flanked Lou's sides, giving him a pair of smarmy smiles now, enjoying a little how tense and unfamiliar Lou was with what was going on around him.

"Sure..!" Beatrice granted, "I believe you too. And if Nolan's this sure about you, then I trust him."

"Ditto," Marshall nodded, "Come on into our parlor, Lou. We'll have you even more flawless than you ever were in a jiffy."

Together, the pair ushered Lou forward and into the room they'd come from. Lou felt a sting of panic when his hand disconnected from Nolan's, and he passed the young man a wide flick of his eyes before looking to see where he was being pushed.

It was a large parlor indeed, with stylish barber chairs at each oversized station. There was one with an massive sink, where Lou was being ushered now, as well as several vanities with lightbulb-rimmed mirrors and stations with hairdryer machines.

Finding himself thrown back into the chair, Lou heard water begin to run behind him as Beatrice threw a vinyl shield cloth around his front.

"First thing," Marshall informed as he sampled the water for temperature before stopping the drain, allowing the sink to fill, "We're going to have to boil you out, get those locks nice and malleable."

Having never needed his hair done, Lou was very uncertain of what to expect. He simply held silent, eyes darting about as he absorbed the information.

Nolan had let out an involuntary chuckle as Lou seemed quite overwhelmed by the turnabout to acceptance his friends had made. He followed to the other room and stopped at a distance safely out of the way of the work, but within Lou's sightline. He tipped his head and offered yet another assuring smile. To his pleasure, Lou seemed to take his presence as a positive, and allowed the others to swarm him, Beatrice fingering his hair and gushing about how silky and smooth it was. No other doll had such glossy wax infused with their yarn. Marshall had to come see and agreed.

The compliment actually seemed to relax Lou some, flattery familiar territory he could work with. He smirked smugly and chuckled in agreement, subtly bragging about how wonderful a condition he'd kept it in all these years.

Hair care was a topic the stylists could obviously get into, and as the sink filled and they pushed the ex-tyrant back into the scalding water, asked him about how he'd managed not to lose the sheen and kept his perfect swoop until now. They offered some extra tips as well.

Nolan observed happily as an amiable attitude managed to form, Lou even closing his eyes in relax as Marshall massaged his plastic in the hot water, running his fingers through the corded locks to loosen them. He heard Lou mentioning how Nolan had praised the pair's work, almost hinting some skepticism, but the pair shrugged that off and assured that they indeed had been born spectacularly skilled hair artists.

Lou had the steps explained to him as his hair was delicately painted with waxy touch-ups, molded and set into its proper shape and boiled and dried until absolutely no frizz remained. It ended up being a rather painless experience, Lou was happy to discover, and the results made him find it easier and easier to relax as it went on, though he still preferred keeping Nolan in the room and part of the conversation. He was an excellent mediator when it came to any potential bicker over Lou's old policies, or when a line was close to being crossed. As well, he was just comfortable to be around. He'd really done something magical to Lou to make the blonde man want to show progress for his sake. And, amazingly, just talking to these other dolls, they were kind of...nice. Alright to have a regular intimate chat with.

Huh.

The only real hiccup came towards the end while Lou was admiring himself in one of those vanity mirrors while Marshall fluffed his bangs to make sure they stayed that way while he used a handheld hairdryer on them. Lou was marveling at the work, touching his cheek and almost hypnotized by how much he looked like his old self - his old brand new self - feeling a small smile creep in, when Beatrice leaned in with a paintbrush and swirled it in a suggestive circle.

"Hey, so, while we're at it, you wanna get some color in there?"

Lou gasped in reaction to the bristles so near his face and jolted backwards, knocking Marshall's hairdryer and causing him to juggle it in fumble, but luckily not dropping it.

"Woah, wait! Excuse me?!"

Beatrice blinked at the man who'd tucked his knees up in fright, not sure what the big deal was. "Uh...color, you know? Like most of us have?" She plucked at one of her orange strands buried among the green. "Are you afraid of highlights..?"

Drumming his fingers against his shins, Lou gave a feeble chuckle. He wouldn't say that exactly, but he'd always been touted as a perfect specimen. His hair had always been just one solitary color of golden yellow. He'd spent years preserving that image, training himself to expertly avoid even one splash of color that didn't belong on him. It would certainly say something about his willingness to be a more open person if he allowed something like paint to touch his hair, but at the same time, he just...couldn't imagine himself making such a change, however minute. He'd considered it ugly for too long. He was sick of feeling ugly and miserable. He just...wanted to be himself right now.

Nolan gave him a concerned look, worried something might be very wrong about the suggestion, that Lou might have taken genuine offense that his precious appearance be threatened. "Lou, it's okay," he rushed to assure, "You don't have to."

Realizing how stupid it must look to recoil from a simple brush that didn't even have any paint on it, Lou collected himself. He didn't actually want to be rude either, for he recognized that he'd been successful thus far in appealing himself to these dolls, even if the process hadn't been flawless. So, clearing his throat, he offered a non-commital, "I'll...think about it." One more drum of his fingers before he let his legs relax and drop back to the floor.

Everyone recognized that he'd said this simply to drop the subject and forget about it, but Beatrice took the cue and stepped away in acceptance. "Alright, well, if you do decide you want some, you know where to come, right?" A playful wink was tossed into the mirror, and Lou smiled minutely to note his intense reaction was being treated with tact. He glanced up to meet Marshall's reflection, and the wink was repeated from the blue-haired man.

Nolan offered, "You look great, anyway, Lou. Factory new." He meant it as well. As Marshall finished his detail work and let Lou stand to admire himself completely, it was like a whole new doll was before them. He radiated an air of confidence as he tugged his sleeve cuff and smiled at himself, but something was different compared to the arrogant aura he'd held only a few weeks ago. It was like he was recognizing that someone else had helped him look this way. That cruel bite was gone from his face, and Nolan could still swear that gentle, pleading light was in his eyes when Lou looked at him, asking him not to let the man get lost the same way again.

"I feel it," was all Lou vocalized, however. To Marshall and Beatrice he nodded and granted, "Thank you." He was sure this time that that was the appropriate thing to say.

His stylists for the day smiled in turn. Lou really was trying to turn things around for himself, wasn't he? They'd half-expected him to laugh at them for falling for his sob story act and helping him regain an authoritative look so he could take over Perfection once more, but no. Just a humble thank you. He really did feel like a completely different doll.

With renewed confidence in Nolan's judgement, no longer suspect that he was being suckered into playing a dictator's pawn, the brunette's friends waved the others off happily, noticing Lou once more grabbing hold of Nolan's hand as they entered the public. It seemed like Lou was quite insecure deep down. But if they knew Nolan, no one else was a better bleeding heart to help out here. They would leave him to it and support him by reworking their stance on their old ruler.

Nolan noticed the grip to his hand as well, but also that Lou didn't seem nearly as tense as before. His posture was grand, and in a way, he was actually glowing.

"You good?" the freckled one checked, "That wasn't too much, was it?"

Lou tutted. "Please. You're looking at a natural-born speaker. I think I can handle a crowd of two."

A returned tut. "Well, that's good. You're feeling better, then? You look like you are."

"Auh, leagues, you have no idea," Lou rolled his eyes in emphasis, "There may be something to your whole crazy 'open and honest' idea, too." Emboldened, he even passed a wink to one of the dolls stopping and turning to look at him. Many on the street were now gawking at his distinctly un-disheveled appearance, as well as how he was holding hands with someone. A someone rather different from the rest of the Pretties, who should by all accounts be considered ugly.

Nolan gave a shy giggle in response. "I'm glad you think so. So then, are you still feeling nervous about something?" He glanced at the hand he'd thought Lou was holding for security.

Letting out a small breath, Lou confessed, "Maybe some. Maybe I can admit that even a predictable success with two of your friends doesn't mean the entire public will follow so easily." A small, purse-lipped beat. "But I think I'm really just holding your hand because I want to."

Nolan's eyes blinked wider and he felt a flutter in his chest, cheeks heating as he became even more shy. "Eh..?" He felt more confident about it when he was just being caring, consoling the other, but holding hands 'because' felt much more intimate, and he was still incredibly shy about thinking of Lou romantically, if not only because of how forward Lou seemed to be about such things. Though the idea seemed confirmed as something he still wanted to consider even after his emotions had calmed.

Having to think about it in a moment of internal assessment, Lou confirmed, "Yes. I'm...grateful. Grateful that you've made good on your promises. That you've let me feel this much better. I trust you to keep it up. And I just kind of...want to stay close? I guess? I'm feeling a bit drained, emotionally, but I don't want to let go."

Nolan blushed harder. Eye contact became more difficult. He cleared his throat to shake his own nerves loose so he could respond, "I'm...flattered. That you still want to get close. I suppose I could...walk you home, then? If you're tired." Impressively, he couldn't see any of it show. The other must have been expertly practiced at hiding things like fatigue. Almost sad in a way, recalling the kind of fatigue he'd been masking through the years.

"That's where I'm headed, babe," Lou smirked, enjoying the flushed surprise on the other's face.

In a way, Nolan was glad Lou was regaining some of his influential swagger, hearing a destination was already in mind, but it was just so flustering to hear himself addressed so casually by a pet name. The thought of helping Lou regain his love through his own was still simultaneously terrifying and exciting.

In response to these feelings, all he could do was smile and look down, eyes glued to the plastic pavement as he walked with the other. He heard Lou chuckle softly, but it was left at that.

The blonde man actually found the silence comfortable as they walked, liking to know that Nolan was still with him by his side, in multiple senses. He hadn't lied about anything. He'd let Lou feel new. Lou had watched how much work he'd put into fixing his suit. How he'd worked at making sure things with his friends had gone well. It was confounding that someone would actually go to the effort for a broken tyrant like him, but so touching. Lou was feeling that he genuinely could trust this doll. That the things he'd spoken about the future might just be possible. That he was truly someone Lou could like, and he wanted to keep him around. He wanted to kiss him again.

They reached Lou's large manor of tinted glass in amicable silence. At the front door, they paused for a moment, observing their connected reflection in the door. They looked awkward, but happy. Nolan was not really sure what to say, coming up with a lamely-delivered, "So...I suppose this would be good night, then?" They'd been up all night and the better part of the day working on Lou's image. They could both do with an extra long sleep despite the artificial sun still being up.

A gentle snort as Lou shook his head lightly. Nolan was just as adorably innocent about intimacy as he had been on The Gauntlet's stoop.

"I really do want to thank you, you know," the man in the crisp suit noted, "I feel...the most calm I have in years thanks to your butting in."

With a bashful smile, Nolan simply had to respond to that. "I'm glad. And you're welcome. I hope we can keep working on that. Destination: Big World, right..?" His free fist pumped feebly like pulling a train whistle.

A wistful touch came to Lou's eyes, but he gave a relenting nod. "We'll see. But...just to be sure, you're not suddenly going to be over me once you go home, right?" He couldn't help it. Letting dolls go was something that haunted him.

Involuntarily snorting at the weightiness of the suggestion, Nolan blushed further and hurried to collect himself lest Lou take offense. "Ah, sorry, I just...no way. Okay? I promised. And like I told you, I want to see the Lou you told me about. Get to know him. I want to help him come out."

His eyes were too honest. Lou couldn't stay offended at them. Nolan really found the idea of just up and abandoning him to be ridiculous. In relief, Lou let a smooth smile slide onto his lips.

"You'd better mean it. He's been waiting a long time to see the sunshine." With that, he took the hand he was holding and spun Nolan around gracefully, catching him in a low dip. "So from both of us...hello." A firm kiss pressed Nolan's lips. "And good night." Another kiss.

Once sure Nolan's face was painted completely pink, Lou swirled him around back up on his feet and jaunted backwards toward the door, winking and shooting double trigger fingers as he suavely clicked his tongue.

Then just like that, he was gone, leaving Nolan in a swirl of butterflies. There was no denying Lou had a very forward charm about him. Fireworks were still going off in his brain as Nolan stared at that closed door.

All of a sudden, he let out a very dorky snort-laugh and his arms curled awkwardly. Oh god, he just couldn't contain his giddiness. He was happy Lou was so bold again, and without the taste of tears, a kiss from him was just...so much better. Still hiding the insecurity of being left alone, still asking to be understood in everything from regret to gratitude, but still...amazing. And really, Lou was a bit of a cornball, wasn't he? How cute.

Now grinning like a ninny, Nolan turned to head to his own home, unsure how Lou could ever imagine he wouldn't want to keep his word.

Inside, Lou watched from behind the tinted glass until Nolan turned to go. He was glad the heterochromic one seemed charmed by his actions above all else. The way he flustered and squirmed to himself was cute. But as well, Lou felt relief that Nolan seemed taken with him. He was almost certain he'd indeed confirmed Nolan would stay with him. Who wouldn't want to stay if it was implied more sugar was coming their way?

Turning to trot up the stairs and get into bed, Lou just couldn't be one hundred percent sure. So many dolls had sworn up and down that they loved him. Tried to pry affection from him. And every single one of them had left him. Gone through that portal without a second thought. Or simply turned on him when his true jaded nature had burst out. Nolan was the first doll Lou truly felt like giving affection, and it was true, Nolan had been completely different. The way they'd spoken was entirely different from any conversation Lou had had previously. But he'd never even said he loved Lou. He said he had once, but not now. Nolan was no longer an infatuated fanboy. He was something different, but without some kind of confirmation like a declaration of devotion, Lou couldn't help feeling a sliver of fear. Like he needed to give Nolan a reason to return to him.

There was no way he could really just have been drawn to Lou and Lou alone when he'd been sobbing his eyes out, right? Part of it had to have been because of the kiss. And Lou had felt himself opening up in such a new way, he was sure if he didn't make sure he kept Nolan's interest, he would risk the young man drifting away just like all the others. Lou's attachment to him felt new, scary and vulnerable, just as much as it felt comfortable and full of hope. If he lost it, he was sure it would be the most painful loss he'd ever experienced, and he wasn't even sure what he'd do if he did. He was afraid of how much more damage he'd be capable of. Nolan's proposal sounded so much better. Lou longed for real connections. He longed for a life full of love. If he could keep Nolan's attention, perhaps he could keep that hope.

Rolling over and tugging the blanket tight around him, Lou did his best to chase away the demons of loneliness looming over him, praying that he'd prove strong enough to break out of his old habits at all. Praying that he could make Nolan pleased with him.

Chapter Text

Blinking awake in his large, plush bed, Lou could tell the sun was out through the heavily-tinted wall of windows opposite him, but not the precise time of day. A glance to an ornately-rimmed wall clock facing the foot of his bed told him is was late morning.

Sitting up, a hand went to Lou's forehead as he wondered what had caused him to sleep in, but then felt his mind weigh on him as the events of the day prior washed over his memory. Was any of that...even real?

Jumping out of bed, in a rush of panic, the blonde darted for the full length mirror next to his wardrobe and scanned himself up and down, checking for evidence, and then letting out a sigh of relief to find he was absolutely pristine.

"Oh, thank goodness," he breathed to himself, one hand going to his collar, "It wasn't a dream." Nolan had really been there. Lou had gotten fixed up. He was going to reclaim the self he'd forgotten.

But wait. What if getting messed up had been the dream? What if it was so far back that he was actually still in charge? What if he'd never experienced his downfall in the first place, and therefore had no reason to reach out to someone to salvage some shred of dignity?

A fresh sting of panic shot through Lou at the notion, but quickly he told himself that no, that was silly. There was no way he could have been dreaming that much of what had happened to him. He'd been stewing about having his appearance messed up for days. He'd been absolutely miserable. And, thinking about it now, he didn't actually feel miserable at all. In fact, he felt massively refreshed, and even a little optimistic. It was strange, but he felt softer inside, and he kind of liked it. He hoped that wasn't a dream. He felt like conquering the day, but in a less dictator-y way.

A light pinch came to his brow as he couldn't help thinking, though...what if? What if he only felt that way because he'd been dreaming such nice things? What if Nolan hadn't really helped him so much? Or what if he had, but after sleeping on it had changed his mind? He'd promised he wouldn't, but every doll promised they wouldn't forget about Lou. Every doll promised they loved him...

Sharply deciding he needed to check, Lou now hurried to get dressed. Seeing Nolan would sort this all out. He could confirm for himself that everything was real and actually going right this time. Surely forming a connection with Nolan hadn't been a figment of his imagination.

…

Amid several bursts of impatient knocking, Nolan walked curiously to his door to open it.

"Oh, Lou. I was going to stop by later to check in. You look rested. Good morning."

On his doorstep, Lou paused, fist still raised and worry plainly painted on his face, just about to start another flurry of insistent pounding. Eyes widening as he saw Nolan recognized him, however, he changed his demeanor in an instant. Clearing his throat, Lou stood straight and leaned a casual forearm on the door frame, crossing his ankles. So far, it seemed like everything had been real.

"Morning, babe," he suavely masked his insecurities, "Did you miss me~?" With his free hand, he reached to touch one knuckle under Nolan's chin and tip his face up as he leaned in.

Immediately, Nolan blushed and his shoulders hunched. In startle, he leaned back away and put flustering hands up in defense. "Woah, woah, hey, what are you doing..!"

Perplexed, Lou's brow furrowed as his affection was denied. "Uh, kissing you good morning..?"

Face pink, Nolan tented his fingers to his temple and reasoned, "Well, yes. But I mean, can you maybe not come at me with that first thing? It's...it's super flattering and all, and I'm glad you want to try having a relationship, much less with me, but so much of that stuff all at once makes me uncomfortable. If you could slow down just a little, I'd really appreciate it." Clasping his hands now, he sent Lou a pleading smile. The blonde might have been shameless and ready to act on impulse, but Nolan was much less experienced than him, and much meeker to boot. Though he was sure he'd work up to expressing affections more freely, the freckled young man was more keen on getting to know Lou's true self right now.

Only more confused, Lou's brow lowered. "Huh..? Are you saying you're not really interested in me?" A gasp. "Were you lying? You just want to brag about getting me to kiss you, don't you!" All he'd ever known were dolls wanting to move super fast and pry affection out of him. The latest peon to be loudest about this called herself Tuesday. A motivation matching hers was all that made sense to Lou.

At this bristling, Nolan pushed his palms out in a hurried usher to calm Lou down. "W-What? No..! When did I say anything even remotely like that?" Desperate to prevent an awkward scene, he touched Lou's shoulder and in a hushed but urgent tone, pleaded, "I said I'm glad you want a relationship, and I meant it, but relationships are more than just kissing, yeah? Especially in front of guests..? Please?"

Distracted, Lou blinked. "Guests..?" Tilting his head, he tried to look around the brunette. "You're seeing someone without me?"

Putting both hands on Lou's shoulders now, and shifting to block his view, Nolan continued to look stressed, though he was glad Lou appeared to drop the kissing issue so easily. "Y-Yes, well, one guest. I wasn't sure when you were going to be up, and I'd thought of a few starter plans last night, so I thought I'd set up a meeting with the most organized doll I know of, just to run things by her..."

A hand lighted on Lou's chest. "You thought of a plan to help me already? Aw, look at you..! My little brainstormer over here." Now he understood. Nolan was focused on the bigger picture, and embarrassed to be openly affectionate in front of others. How cute. "But hey, I'm up and I'm here! I should hear what you've got too. I'm plenty organized, what with my years of experience manipulating the masses. Fill me in." Determination on his face, Lou pushed confidently past Nolan into his home, certain he would be a useful addition.

Nolan hurried to finish his sentence, lifting a hand uselessly after Lou's back. "...but I don't think you'll be thrilled if I don't warn you."

Too late.

Lou froze, eyes flaring as he saw who was seated at Nolan's breakfast nook. "YOU!"

Likewise, the young lady he faced frowned in dismay, straightening her glasses, barely held together at the bridge with tape. Her skin was dark and her vividly purple hair was done up into a tight, strict bun.

"Me," she scoffed, "Well, when Nolan told me you wanted to change, I had to see it to believe it, but if that's how you say hello, I think we're already done here." Pointedly, she folded closed the planner in front of her on the counter and got up from her stool.

Darting to the space between the two, Nolan held a staying hand up toward each of them. "Wait! Stop! This is why I wanted to talk to you two separately!"

Thankfully, the others did both still at the brunette's plea, and the tension dropped, but not fully, as he was given their attention.

"I know it's a shock, and I'm sorry," Nolan pressed, just wanting to keep the peace, "I'd wanted to prepare you guys to meet. Lou, I was going to come to your place to check up on you after meeting Mandy. I didn't expect you to come here. Mandy, I'm sorry I didn't think about that as a possibility. Maybe I should have checked on Lou first. I don't know. I'm just free-wheeling all this. Please don't leave."

Taking the ensuing silence to mean the others saw his earnest and were giving him a chance, Nolan insisted, "Mandy was your right hand doll, right, Lou? So she must be super capable, and can help us reach a lot of other dolls. I was thinking she could help us set up a rally. Some way for you to address the public. And Mandy, I don't know if I explained what Lou's been going through well enough, but if you were on his side again, if you were willing to back him up, it would speak volumes to everyone else. I know you can help him. Please, can you guys forgive each other? At least enough to give my idea a try?"

Sympathetic looks went to the man in the middle, before Lou and Mandy passed a quick glance to each other around him. Right. Nolan didn't actually have all the answers. He was just a kind soul hoping for the best. In this moment, Lou had to realize that he wasn't the only one without omniscience, and Mandy had to realize that Nolan really believed in Lou's potential.

Nolan met Mandy's eyes, imploring, and while her face said she felt for him, her slanted lips informed she remained on the fence. It really all depended on Lou. Nolan's eyes naturally flicked to meet Lou's too, silently begging him to make amends. He wanted to be kind, right? He wanted to use the love inside of him.

Closing his eyes briefly, Lou let a sigh slip from his nose. He had to remind himself of his goals, too. For too long it had been his rash instinct to lash out, punish and belittle. Mandy had betrayed him, helped the UglyDolls in taking him down from the inside, and contributed heavily to his fate in the washer, but Lou had to revisit the thought that if Nolan, the one who had actually pulled the trigger on that fate, could be forgiven, then surely the same could be said for others. And, he had to remember, he'd put Mandy in a box. Because she had skills he could use, and she'd initially worshiped him, Lou had forced her to conform to the restrictive ways of his crafted elite. Tried to break her of her kindhearted beliefs and even broken her glasses to drive home how ugly she'd been born.

When his eyes opened again, the blonde man's face was softer, somber. Mandy blinked in surprise to see his pensive gaze drifting to the side before raising to meet hers. He brushed Nolan lightly to the side, and then he spoke, addressing Mandy in a low, sincere tone she'd never heard before.

"Yes, well. Mandyyyy. So. I know we've had our differences."

With a small scoff, the young woman tipped her head. "Putting it mildly."

Lou gave a quiet, flat grunt at the derailment, but had to accept it. "Yes. But, if you're actually willing to be a part of this and be my event planner, I know you do excellent work. I'd be happy to collaborate." Taking another breath, knowing the other was skeptical, he looked right into her eyes and professed. "Mandy, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to react like that. I was startled. I wouldn't even think you'd agree to meet for something like this if you were asked, but since you have, I want you to know that I'm serious, and I am sorry. For everything. Truce? At least for Nolan's sake? He's already done so much for me."

Mandy's brow went up and her face fell slack, hardly believing it as she watched Lou raise an arm and offer out a hand to shake, a small smile on his lips.

"Wow." Before she'd even realized, she'd taken a few steps forward and reached to meet the offered hand, returning the small, reserved smile as she shook it once. "You are different. I'm in."

A smug note from Lou's throat. "Of course I am..! You know when I want something, I give it my all. I'm sure you've heard already, but I want to be better." First Nolan's friends, and now Mandy. He was fast gaining confidence in his ability to convert everyone back to his side.

While Mandy snorted and pinched one cheek as she gave a slightly skeptical smile, feeling like that remark was still a bit egotistical for her liking, Nolan gave a lopsided smile of his own and a breathy chuckle in relief. Wrapped his own hands around the two joined in front of him, he professed, "Great! So we're a team. Lou, have you eaten yet?" He assumed he had, but figured he'd ask.

Having been enjoying the soothing effect any touch of Nolan's just magically seemed to have on him, Lou was distracted as his brow went up, and like answering the question his stomach emitted a lengthy gurgle. In his urgency to ensure he hadn't been dreaming up the other doll's compassion, he had neglected any thoughts of breakfast.

Giving a tut out of endearment this time, Nolan let one knuckle grace his lips before suggesting, "Well, why don't you two have a seat, and I'll fix up some French toast bites?"

Diligently, the heterochromic man beelined behind the breakfast nook's counter and began gathering implements with which to cook Lou some vittles. Watching him go, Lou found one side of his mouth lift in appreciation. Nolan truly still cared for him after their time apart. Once more, Lou found himself flummoxed that someone would so easily go out of their way to care for him, and without even being asked. Nolan's very nature was just the sweetest thing.

Wanting nothing more than to reward this heart-melting kindness with kisses, Lou had a momentary struggle as he remembered Nolan insisting that he didn't want that. That was still weird, Lou thought, but awkwardly he made the decision to restrain himself, chalking it up to Nolan being embarrassed about Mandy's presence, and stiffly forced himself to walk for a stool instead of smoothly following Nolan to twirl him into a dip.

Mandy had watched Lou's honest smile, finding it even more curious than his apology. She'd never seen such soft, open fondness on the blonde man, or such conflicting hesitation. It was...astonishing. It was like he had real emotions. Fascinated by how Nolan's account of Lou having layers seemed to have merit, the purple-haired doll followed to a second stool and reopened her planner. She began throwing out ideas about how to gather attention for a public gathering, and when it might be held. They wanted to make sure as many dolls as possible heard about it, after all. It was going to be an important address.

The rest of that morning was spent coming up with designs for fliers and getting them printed. Lou was very urgent about getting his message out, seemingly very worried that he might lose the light inside him if he didn't act immediately, but Mandy had pointed out that they still needed to spread awareness as much as possible, and so at the very least they needed to spend today making sure other dolls knew he had something to say. This way they could bring home some others that were out and about exploring the Big World, too. Lou had relented to this point, but still was antsy, and Nolan had found the compromise that tomorrow would be a fair time to hold the rally. Very immediate, but still enough time to spread word.

Advertising, Lou was not shy about. The trio of rally organizers walked about town, stapling their fliers to every telephone pole available, and whenever any doll passed them or looked with interest at what was being posted, Lou would loudly give them an in-person invitation, declaring they weren't going to want to miss what he said, told them to tell all their friends, and showed off his freshly-polished look, saying it was definitely a hint at the new dawn ahead. Mandy thought that last line of action might be a little too like Lou's old attention-hogging self, but she was again amazed when Lou actually would point to Nolan as the doll, the man, the star who had made it all possible. Nolan, every time, would shy behind a stack of papers he was holding or turn away. He didn't think he deserved to be put on a pedestal just for fixing a suit. He was a tailor. It was his job.

Mandy thought it might also be a little overbearing of Lou to not notice Nolan's discomfort, but even the fact that he was sharing the spotlight at all was unthinkable. She almost didn't want to disrupt the scenes, fearing Lou might throw one of the tantrums she was used to if any misstep was pointed out, but if Lou was trying to be nicer...finally, after one incident of embarrassing public praise, Mandy had made up her mind to try and point out to Lou that kind words weren't always best shouted, when all three of the flier hangers found themselves distracted.

The entire street was distracted, actually. Some dolls were already drifting past Mandy as she looked up to find a red-haired young woman calling to everyone around her and pointing back behind her, towards the portal.

Passing glances between one another, the trio could see they shared the same brow furrowed with curious concern, and they too turned to drift closer to the doll who had stopped, panting, to hear her cries better.

"...monster or something!" they heard her say, "Help! I don't know if they need it, or what's going on, but everybody's freaking out! Somebody do something!"

Lou couldn't help feeling like rolling his eyes a little bit, having the fleeting thought that the idiots inhabiting the Institute were useless without his guidance as ever, but found curiosity winning over any snarky comments he might have wanted to make. With the rest of the surrounding dolls, he trotted toward the portal, where dozens were crowding around the ramp leading to the giant, glowing, pink-purple swirling circle that led out of their world. No one was actually going onto the ramp, however. Everyone was hovering back in a wide berth, watching the unidentified creature that was occupying the ramp's surface.

Something was there, Lou could see, unafraid to push his way through the crowd and enter that empty space between it and the ramp. It was a doll-sized something there, too, though moving unnaturally, lurching and crawling awkwardly. It was mostly pink, but large tufts of white pillowed out of it at several points. Only one limb was obvious, but it might have just been the only one that was fully functional, the more its attempts at movement were followed. As Lou watched, his eyes narrowed in study, feeling like this pink, amorphous blob looked almost familiar. And then, part of that blob raised, revealing a face. Abstract lumps merely suggesting hair, a gasping, gap-toothed mouth underneath two eyes desperately seeking another pair to connect with.

They connected with Lou's, and the blonde felt a sharp sting of shock and recognition. "You!" For the second time today, he was reconnecting with an old foe. This was Moxy. The first UglyDoll since Ox to come to this place, and the one that had been so adamant about tearing Lou's cultural structure down. And she was...shredded. Stuffing spilled out from the mess of ragged gashes she was covered in.

"Help..." she called to him, weakly. She didn't care who it was right now. It might have been nice if someone else had been unafraid enough to come close, but surely, even Lou wouldn't just finish her off in front of everyone.

Face pinching, Lou actually ran forward, up the ramp and coming to kneel beside the pink doll. His hand hovered, not sure how to even react in this situation, but desperately wanting to know what happened. Behind him, Mandy and Nolan shared a quick look, following fast behind Lou.

"Moxy?!" Mandy professed to her friend, "Oh my gosh, what happened to you?! What can we do?" Taking the rotund doll's hand in hers, her face was full of worry. At a loss, she didn't know how to help. She'd never had to deal with anything like this!

Smiling some to see a friendly face, Moxy seemed to ease just a little. "So...the dog got me," she admitted, "My kid left me on the window seat in the living room, just for a minute to get some juice, and well..." Her eyes drifted Lou's way and she gave a weak chuckle, "I guess maybe I could have used some more training after all, huh?"

Lou had been staring, struggling to process what he was seeing himself. He'd heard dolls weren't coming back every now and again, yes, but this was proof of everything he'd ever tried to push in his lessons. Here was his most recent rival, all but destroyed, and admitting he was right.

A short laugh slipped out. Then it grew. Then he placed one hand to his gut and let out a full-on cackle. This was just too rich! He couldn't help it!

"You're not kidding!" he grinned back, ignoring the way Moxy's brow creased in confusion, "I told you! I told you how dangerous it was out there! But did any of you want to listen? No! You just wanted to waltz on through that portal all willy-nilly, not even thinking about it! Well this is why we trained, people! And this is especially why you don't dance for dogs! That's an invitation for this!" Smugly, he turned toward the crowd and thrust a finger Moxy's way. He was specifically recalling an instance in the Gauntlet, where one of Moxy's friends had decided dancing around to distract the robot dog obstacle had been a good idea. If only he could see that friend in the crowd now. He'd love to see the lesson learned on his face.

"Lou!"

Turning sharply, Lou found Nolan glowering at him. Immediately, Lou shrank, but firmed his own brow in confusion. His gaze flicked between him and Mandy, finding her glaring even harder. Moxy passed her gaze between all of them, feeling like she'd missed something while she'd been away, but mostly just feeling sad that her small joke had gotten such a harsh retort. Lou was still mean enough to berate her at her lowest rather than help her. It was disheartening.

Nolan wanted Lou to understand his error, and fed into that guilty look by biting, "Stop it! She needs help, not a lecture!"

Definitely feeling guilty, Lou curled one arm to his chest. For that moment, he'd lost to impulse, and suddenly it felt like it had undone all of the good will he'd been earning. He hadn't meant to burst out like that. Why had he? Was it just old habits? He had only just declared his desire to change. Or was it because he was already showing signs that change was impossible? But he was feeling guilty, and he never used to feel such a thing. And why did it feel like such a kick in the gut to have Nolan look at him with such disapproval? Was he going to push that doll away too, that first real connection, just as soon as he'd gained him?

"I..."

Before he could figure out how to express the sudden churning storm in his mind resulting from his slip, Lou was cut of by another voice calling out Moxy's name. Turning, his eyes widened to find a green lagomorphic doll with one eye X-ed out charging forward. Lou's throat tightened. Ox.

The long-eared doll joined the small cluster around Moxy, sliding to a stop on his knees. He passed Lou one quick glance after grabbing hold of Moxy's other hand, but only pursed his lips before turning for the girl on the ground. His demeanor made it clear that he was choosing to focus on his kin rather than any unaired grievances.

"Moxy," he gushed breathlessly after his run, "I came as soon as I heard. Hang in there, girl. We're gonna get you some help." Looking up, he twisted his head, calling, "Somebody help her!"

Nolan raised a palm toward Ox to try and calm him down. "Don't worry. It looks like she just needs some stitches. Well, a lot of stitches. But I can sew. I can at least get started." With his other hand, he pulled a small, portable sewing kit out of his pocket. "Mandy, if you can round up some other sewing professionals, preferably any doll hospital specialists..."

"O-Of course!" Snapping out of her fretful freeze, Mandy pushed her glasses up and kicked her organized mind in gear. "I can get thicker thread and a cot here ASAP!" Rising, she shared a short nod with Ox, trusting the leader of Moxy's hometown to watch over her, and quickly darted off, calling for anyone who might have a career that could aid in the emergency.

Lou fell into the background, just watching as the others acted, tending to Moxy as best they could, gathering emergency responder dolls and carrying her away. This was how you were supposed to act in this sort of scenario, huh? Personal stuff really didn't seem to matter. Ox never passed him another look. No one did. They let Lou just stand where he'd stepped back to, ignoring him. It was a strange feeling, being unseen. Being on the outside looking in. And he wondered why, if he did have love inside him, he hadn't been able to act like these others.

Nolan, Lou already knew, was amazingly caring, and watching him take charge and offer what he could even to a doll that was all but a stranger to him, it was actually rather admirable. As Moxy was taken away, Nolan had finally linked gazes one last time with Lou. In that slow motion moment, Nolan's eyes had communicated uncertainty, worry, sadness, and sympathy. Lou had sent back guilt, confusion, fear and pleading. But then Nolan had turned back to follow the action. Ran after the departing cluster of rescuers to continue doing what he could to help.

In the end, Lou was left standing there on that ramp alone. The crowd had dispersed, talking among themselves about the disruptive event.

Alone.

Lou looked around, his lips widening tensely as he came to experience a fresh wave of that familiar experience. As the seconds passed, he only noticed more the contrast to the last day after opening up to Nolan. It made him realize just how much he hated the idea of returning to it. That fulfilling companionship was replaced with cold, empty silence. It was just like this morning, full of doubt that such pleasantness as love was ever granted to him. Doubt that he could truly earn it.

He hadn't ruined things already, had he..? Mandy was probably having second thoughts about his ability to be kind. He hadn't even gotten to apologize for his outburst. And now Nolan wasn't here to guide him. What was Lou supposed to do? How could he undo his faux pas? How could he prove he still wanted to be good? His moral compass was so skewed, he truly felt like he couldn't act without someone versed in goodness telling him what to do.

Eyes dropping to the floor, Lou placed one hand on his gut, trying to ask himself: what would Nolan tell him to do? Having no proper conscience of his own, the ex-tyrant could only think to use the other doll as a stand-in.

Well...apologizing was seemingly an effective developing trend. And if he hadn't gotten to apologize for his outburst when making it...perhaps it would still be welcome if he gave it now? Maybe he should go to the doll hospital. If Moxy would see him, he could visit her when she was done being worked on. He could...try to start making amends with her. She was going to be a very large step on his path to betterment, and he'd hardly expected to face her so soon, but if anyone could do it, he could.

Standing a bit taller, fists forming in determination, Lou once again reminded himself who he was. If anyone had the drive to achieve their goals, it was him. He was going to regain his true, lost nature. He was going to undo the vindictive actions of his past. He was going to make peace. Yeah. Possibly. Hopefully. But mostly probably not.

Puffing his cheeks as he let out a breath to find his resolve slipping, Lou once more felt like he'd better get moving before he ended up crawling back into a stand-offish shell. If nothing else, being near Nolan was a good start. Nolan was the one who had inspired this whole redemption plan. Nolan was safe. Nolan was inspiring.

And Nolan was the one Lou really wanted to look at him proudly. That sharp gaze had stung.

Decisively, Lou got his legs moving. To the doll hospital it was.