Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Tommy was exhausted. He had been shooting for the last fifteen hours of his life. Sure, he knew that he signed up for this, but it was becoming more and more difficult every day. But he couldn’t voice that, he was Tom Simons, one of the most famous actors ever, only sixteen and a true prodigy.

He was snapped back into reality when the director yelled that break was over, and they were starting to shoot a new scene. Tommy took a deep breath and walked onto set. They were currently filming “Boy in the Backroads” which was a movie about a street rat meets a rich snob. They then become the classic movie enemies to family dynamics, ew.

Tommy personally found it kind of stupid and cliché but he went along with it nonetheless. He walked onto the set and took his place in the alleyway, they were filming in a real one on the streets which was nice. Tommy didn’t get to go outside much.

“Okay we are gonna run scene three everyone in position!” The director yelled.

This was the first time Tommy’s character and the rich guy officially met, both in the movie and in person. They had only met for a brief moment before the first filming day but hadn’t talked since then.

Tommy needed to stop snapping out of it, he had to pay attention to what he was doing, he knew what would happen if he didn’t.

“Three, two, one, action!”

Tommy immediately drained all of the emotion on his face and started to shiver voluntarily.

Then the rich guy, his name is Jake, walked past the alleyway, before turning around and following the small pained noises coming from inside.

Once he saw Tommy, or Leo as called in the show, his face morphed into one of disgust and he jerked back.

~

“What the heck, why are you here, street rat?”

“How else am I meant to get money, buddy? The rich sector is the only place I even have a chance of surviving.” Leo shot back.

The man got mad. He stepped forward again and yanked the young boy onto his feet.

“Wanna say that again?”

Right before Leo could respond, a voice from outside of the alley interrupted.

“Hey! Leave him alone.” There was a young boy, and the man turned around, dropping Leo.

The man began to walk away, but not before turning back to Leo, “Watch your back, kid.”

Leo just snickered to himself as he lifted his hand that now had a wallet, with a lot of money.

~

“Cut! Simons, Blade, get over here.” The director called.

Tommy internally cringed, the director was his father, hence the main reason he was in the industry. He refused to address Tommy as his son on set, which only stung a little, just a little. Nonetheless he walked over with the guy who was just watching the ground twiddling with his thumbs.

“That scene was perfect, Techno. Tom, work on your facial expressions.” The man's tone turned cool and hard when speaking to Tommy, who immediately nodded and straightened his posture.

“Thank you.” Techno said simply, although he thought that the boy's expressions were quite on point, “I’m going to go calm down in my room, that bit overstimulated me a little.”

“Do whatever you need to, that was really all we needed today so you can go home when you’ve cooled off.” He smiled warmly, and once Techno nodded and turned to leave, his attention shifted back to Tommy.

“Being in the studio for barely anytime doesn’t mean you can get sloppy, your personal trainer is here, so go do a workout, you need it. Also no dinner tonight, you haven’t earned it.”

“Yes sir.” Tommy mumbled with his head down. For a Disney director, his father was a terrible person.

Tommy smiled lightly, sure he was exhausted and would most likely pass out while exercising, it meant he got to see his best friend. He had convinced his dad to get a trainer his age, after agreeing to push himself harder in every aspect, his father agreed. Little did he know that the only personal trainer Tommy’s age in this area was his best friend, Tubbo.

Tubbo and Tommy were close when they were little but after Tommy’s career skyrocketed, they were barely able to keep in touch. Now they get to see each other almost every day.

Tommy walked to the parking area for today’s shooting and smiled at the sight of Tubbo’s fluffy brown hair. He ran over and tackled the shorter in for a hug, being the only person who Tommy would willingly touch, he relished every moment.

“Hey, how was it today?” Tubbo asked as he pulled back but didn’t break contact.

Tommy laughed wetly, “Horrible, I’ve been here for almost sixteen hours now and haven’t gotten permission to eat.” Tubbo practically growled as he pulled Tommy in again, holding him tight.

Tubbo knew everything about Tommy’s life, the constant stress and anxiety, the strict rules, and the abusive parenting. Every time he saw Tommy, he made sure that those hours would be the happiest of the blondes day. Tommy always appreciated the lengths Tubbo went to to make him feel better.

“We’ll just do some weight lifting then, I don’t want you to pass out doing cardio,” Tubbo leaned closer to Tommy’s ear, “And then we'll get some food, just like every other day, I promise he won’t notice you’ve eaten.”

Tommy nodded and they headed to Tubbo’s car, getting into the front seat and practically melting. Tubbo added extra padding to his seat a while back and made sure he had everything Tommy would need to be comfortable when he was with him.

“Might not talk a whole ton today, had to do a crap ton of singing and if my voice cracks tomorrow, he’ll kill me.” Tommy said, the hoarseness already presenting itself.

“That's okay, we're about forty minutes from the gym because of traffic, so sleep.” Tubbo turned on the calming music he knew he liked and smiled as the blonde was out in only two minutes, seat back, cuddled around a pillow and snuggled under a blanket.

Tubbo softly shook Tommy awake once he was parked at the gym he worked at. The blonde grumbled but obeyed, sitting up and rubbing his eyes.

“C’mon, Toms. The sooner we get done with the workout the sooner we can get some food.” Tubbo smiled as he helped Tommy out of the car.

“M’k” Tommy stretched and shook out his limbs, hyping himself up for the horrid feeling this hour would bring.

They started walking toward the gym door, “I’m thinking we focus on our arms, but we can do the leg press as well so that you can work those muscles a bit as well."

Tommy nodded, he was sometimes baffled by Tubbo’s knowledge about this field. And even if he was Tommy’s best friend, he signed a contract to make sure he worked out.

The pair started with stretching then did some simple exercises, Tommy was even able to move up in weight.

When Tommy started to get tired, they were almost done, Tubbo did the workouts with him to make him feel better.

“So close, just one more set then we’re done.” Tubbo smiled.

Tommy nodded then powered through the last set and sighed in relief as he practically collapsed. Tubbo was right there to hold him up and help him put the weights away, and then do more stretching.

They walked out and even though Tommy was even more tired, he did feel better after the workout.

“See that wasn’t so bad, was it?” Tubbo smiled as Tommy shook his head, and the shorter one pulled the other closer, “I promised I would never push you too hard and I meant it.”

Getting in the car, Tommy drank the rest of his water and got comfortable in the seat again, only using the pillow as he was sweaty.

“We’re gonna head to my house, okay? My parents aren’t home, not a shocker really.” Tubbo giggled. Tommy frowned.

Tommy’s dad may have been horrible but at least he was there. Tubbo practically lived alone but never complained. He always claimed it was better that way, he could take more care of Tommy. Even if the blonde wanted to complain, Tubbo would say things like that and the blonde would melt in affection.

Tubbo turned on his Chill Songs 2 playlist and sang softly to the lyrics and looked over at Tommy every few seconds, making sure he was okay.

They made it to the house and went inside. Tommy was banished to the couch to rest while Tubbo went and made dinner. As promised, it was just a simple chicken wrap, enough to be filling, but not enough to show that he had eaten.

Tubbo joined Tommy on the couch and they watched TV. When they hang out, they have about two hours because Tommy’s dad is convinced that Tubbo is a strict trainer who will push him to his limits.

“It’s almost time to go. But first, what injuries has he given you lately?”

Tommy sighed and lifted his shirt to show a barrage of bruises. Tubbo just frowned and went to get the bruise cream from the med kit. He worked slowly and carefully, making sure Tommy felt better by the time he was done.

“Thank you. Love you.” Tommy mumbled as he pulled Tubbo into a hug.

“Always, love you more.” Tubbo hugged back just as fiercely, but avoided his injuries.

Now they actually had to leave, Tommy needed to get home and work on all of his lines, if he messed up tomorrow his father would rip him to shreds.

They got into the car and Tommy sunk into the seat, wishing this could be the only car he ever had to use. But that's not how the world works and a few minutes later they arrived at Tommy’s mansion. Tubbo didn’t get out this time, as he didn’t have to give his weekly workout report.

Tubbo said goodbye, leaning over the console to hug the blonde one more time.

“Please be safe.”

“I’ll try my hardest.”

And with that, Tommy exited the car and up to his house, which was much too large and cold to be a home. He went straight to his room, knowing it was only his father’s staff here, and locked the door.

It was clean. So clean that it didn’t look like anyone lived there. But that was expected, if there was even a speck of dirt, Tommy would have ten new bruises to hide. He sat on his bed, after grabbing his comfort stuffed animal that gets hidden in his closet everyday.

Tommy opened his sling bag and took out the three scripts he was memorizing. First was “Boys in the Backroads”, just a regular movie. Next was “Greg's Guide to Befriending Superheros”, which was also a movie but with more stunts and cgi. Lastly, “Brothers by Music” a musical that involved tons of gushy family antics between two boys.

Tommy was probably the most excited for the musical, even if it was cringy. He had always loved to sing but his father refused to let him pursue a broadway career in the department. But now that his father was directing one, he was all for Tommy’s singing voice.

He decided to practice the songs from this morning again as they were quite difficult for Tommy’s still developing range. He was frustrated over how difficult it was. He should be able to do it but he just couldn't. He wanted another music person's advice, as Tubbo knew nothing in that department, but he never could. His vocal coach was rude and snappy, making Tommy afraid to not even give his all in warmups. Maybe if his co-star was nice enough, he would consider it. But that wasn’t extremely likely, and he had never had nice people to work with.

He practiced non-stop for almost three hours, he was amazed his voice was still okay. He only stopped because he heard his phone ringing, it was his father. He answered quickly.

“Yes sir?”

“I've sent a driver to have you at the studio in a little over an hour. I expect you to arrive and go through all of the songs and dances, to be ready for the first runthrough at six am.”

Tommy wanted to cry. He had barely gotten an hour's rest on the last day, and now he would be pushed to his physical and mental limits. That also meant he would have been awake for over twenty hours with little to no rest when he arrived. It was twelve a.m. now, as acting was a carrier that required extremely odd hours to be efficient.

“Yes sir, I understand. Can I expect you at the studio, sir?”

“No, I deserve rest for all of my hard work. That is all.” And the call abruptly ended. Tommy wanted to cry. He knew this was the last time he would get to sleep for another entire day of filming.

He called Tubbo, who knew how to make him almost instantly sleepy.

“Hello?” Tubbo’s soft voice echoed through the phone.

“I- I haven’t slept and have to go back to the studio in an hour. I need you to help me sleep for at least thirty minutes.” His voice was shaky.

“Oh- Toms,” Tubbo sounded so hurt and Tommy could tell his eyebrows were furrowed, “Get in bed and shut the lights off, is your night light on?”

Tommy blushed, he was afraid of the dark but did he really need to bring it up? He grumbled out a yes and then he was huddled under his blankets.

Tubbo started humming soft tunes, knowing it was one way to calm Tommy’s brain down. The blonde smiled as he closed his eyes, listening to his friend's smooth voice and drifting off.

Tommy woke up to Tubbo gently saying his name.

“M’ awake.” Tommy sat up and rubbed his eyes. He sighed as he got out of bed, but stayed on the phone with Tubbo, appreciating his tiny bit of happiness for the next millennial. He debated what to wear but decided on sweatpants and a T-shirt. His father wouldn't be there so he will pray that no one rats him out for wearing ‘homeless person clothing’.

The two enjoyed light conversation until the car pulled up, then Tommy said goodbye and went outside. He got in and put his headphones on, the driver was silent anyways. He watched the city pass, smiling when they passed a family that was getting ice cream. Tommy always wished he could have that. His father was in it for the money from the start. His mom left when he was born and he hasn’t seen her since.

Tommy envied a normal family life, but he would never have that. The only thing that made him feel better was the fact that Tubbo’s parents were also neglectful. Of course not as hard but it was easier to have someone who at least somewhat knew how he felt.

Tommy sighed when they pulled up to the studio. The driver did nothing but nod when he exited the car. Tommy wasn’t ready for this. He was still so, so tired and didn’t want to exist. But he had to, he was his father's shining star, at least on screen.

Walking into the studio, he grabbed a water and made his way over to the recording room. That's where they did song run throughs, then they would move to the stage for the dances, then combine the two. Tommy always thought it would be easier to lip sync to pre-recorded songs like every other movie production did, but that was too “cheap” and “lazy” so they had to make it twenty times more difficult.

Tommy smiled slightly as he entered the recording studio, it was by far his favorite place on any set. He could dim the lights and all of the chaos of the filming area was drowned out. He wasn't often alone in these rooms so he appreciated when he was.

True to his word, he dimmed the light, immediately sighing in relief at the fact that his headache calmed slightly. He took a seat on one of the beanbags and took out his phone. He had about thirty minutes before the rehearsal, his father always wanting him to be early, so he figured he had at least fifteen minutes until anyone else showed up.

Since his father wasn’t here he was safe to call Tubbo again, what could he say, his friend was his literal only support and he soaked it up like sunlight.

Tubbo picked up quickly, as usual, “Hey Toms,” His voice sounded groggy and Tommy felt bad. Of course Tubbo would have been asleep, but he could never avoid the blonde's calls.

“Hi, Tubs, did I wake you?”

“Mmm, yeah-” Tubbo was cut off with a yawn, “But is’ okay.”

“No it’s not, Tubbo you are tired, you need to rest, you spend almost all day out and working out, you can't include a terrible sleep schedule too.”

“Your a-a hippo-crate.” Tubbo was practically asleep already.

Tommy just huffed out a laugh and told Tubbo how to pronounce the word correctly then leaving the call. He then turned on one of his favorite youtubers, quietly and sat for a little bit.

He was completely entranced in one of his favorite videos, laughing at something the person said. That was until a knock on the frame of the already opened doorway startled him. He full on flinched and let out a small yelp. Staring up at the intruder, he was a tall brunette with round glasses, smiling lightly at Tommy.

“Hello, I’m assuming you’re Tommy?” He started.

Tommy just nodded before looking back at the ground.

“Do you mind if I turn the lights back up? Turner will be here soon and he gets all snippity when everythings not set up.” Ah yes, Turner, the vocal and dance coach/choreographer for Tommy’s father. He was still kind to some extent, re: Tommy’s poor clothing, but if Tommy acted out of line his father would certainly hear about it.

Tommy nodded again and then grumbled to himself as the brightness in the room increased.

The man just laughed, “I feel you, I hate all of the bright lights, but do it for the show I guess. Anyways, I’m Wilbur. It’s nice to finally meet my ‘little brother’ in person.”

Tommy wanted to remain silent but didn’t want to risk this man telling his father he was being rude, so he managed out a, “Nice to meet you too.” Before getting up and stretching his limbs, and grabbing a mic set for himself, along with one for Wilbur.

The other said thanks before adjusting it comfortably on his head.

“Are you ready for today? It's gonna be a long one, but I think we got this.” Holy fuck, was this man a talkative person. Tommy was very much so not. Especially with strangers. Tubbo on a good day? Yes, chatterbox Tommyinnit in the house. But when he wasn’t feeling up to it, or it was literally any other human than his friend? Suddenly, he was an anti-social train wreck, nervous to speak at all.

This wouldn’t have been a big deal, but he had to talk with people to keep his and his fathers reputation crisp.

“Y-yeah the early ones sure are um-um-um tough.” It was just above a whisper but Tommy was proud that he managed that much anyways.

“This might sound a little straight forward, but I never took you for a shy person. Your persona in the media has always been so loud, same with your roles.” Surprisingly Wilbur didn’t sound condescending, just curious.

“I-um-um I don’t know.” He answered truthfully, “I’m just not very comfortable around people that aren't Tubbo.” And he screwed it up. He showed vulnerability. He wasn’t supposed to do that.

As Tommy quietly scolded himself for being so tired that he would open up to a stranger Wilbur just smiled.

“I can relate. Sometimes in extremely populated areas, I can barely speak when people come up to me and often try to hide behind my friends. No worries.”

Tommy was too stunned to speak. He wasn’t being made fun of, or laughed at? This had quite literally never happened before. But Tommy couldn’t overthink anymore, as Turner walked into the room clapping his hands.

Are we ready for today boys, it’s a big one and even though it's the first run-through of all the numbers, I expect us to try our very best.” A pointed look, that Wilbur didn’t fail to notice, was directed Tommy’s way.

“Of course, we’re both really excited to put this work in and see it come to life.” Wilbur replies for the both of them.

Turner smiled and they got to work.

After going through the common warm ups, Tommy’s voice was already struggling, and he was nervous. Turner got mad when he messed up and it would result in punishment when he returned home.

They started running through the first song, where Wilbur’s character, Raine, reassures Tommy’s character, Cedar, that their life will change soon, for the better. However, this issue came in Tommy’s chorus about a minute later, he took a breath and started the line, and his voice went out. Completely, he coughed and tried to continue, nothing, it was dead.

The track was cut, Wilbur looking slightly worried and Turner looking annoyed. Tommy’s eyes started to shine with shame and he looked down at the floor.

“Wilbur we’re gonna take five, go get water while I check on Tom’s throat, okay?” Wilbur nodded and left the room, and once the door shut Tommy knew it was over.

“Come on, Tom, seriously? You knew this day was important and fucked it all up by using your dumb ass voice, when no one asked.”

Tommy tried to defend himself but it could hardly even be considered a whisper, “But- I tried! I swear.”

“Shut it!” Turner interrupted, “If I hear another word come out of your mouth for the rest of the day, you’ll be sorry you took this job.”

Tommy was trembling now, Turner had never been this mean to him. But Tommy knew he was being one hundred percent serious. Tommy was so disappointed in himself. He thought it would be okay, it was when he was practicing!

Oh well, he just needed to try harder, train his voice better, and speak much less off of set. He was shaking as Turner walked out to enjoy the break.

Wilbur on the other hand was a tad confused. He had never seen someone react like that to losing their voice, as it was often uncontrollable. He brushed it off, figuring it was his imagination, before walking back to the room.

Tommy was standing in the middle frowning and Wilbur interrupted the silence.

“So what happened, Did Turner look at your throat?”

Tommy just nodded and held out his phone, as soon as Turner left he came up with a believable lie, they were quite easy to create these days.

Holding the phone, Wilbur read the small message written out on the notes app,

'He doesn’t really know what happened, but we don’t wanna push my voice too hard with all the important filming days so vocal rest for the remainder of today :('

Wilbur looked up, “That makes sense, it’s happened to me plenty of times, I’m sure you’ll be good as new in no time.” Wilbur smiled and so did Tommy in return.

Turner returned and they just went through Wilbur's parts of the songs, Tommy silently sitting in the corner, trying not to doze off.

It took about an hour, they discussed a few things that needed to be perfected. Wilbur took the criticism well, and they moved to the main set to rehearse the dances. This was by far Tommy’s least favorite part. He thought that doing these types of dances was cringy and just really odd. But he had to, so when he was told which song they were doing first, he performed the moves perfectly, and with just enough fake emotion to pull it off.

“Wow, how have you learned this so quickly?” Wilbur smiled, slightly out of breath, “I’ve been doing it for almost two weeks and haven’t fully gotten it down.” Tommy just shrugged and went to get a small sip of water before the next run. However, that quickly took a turn as his father walked onto the set, making eye contact with Tommy.

He froze. His father would call his outfit unacceptable, and would certainly throw some of his clothes out since he chose to be so disrespectful.

“Mr. Simons!” Wilbur smiled as he went to greet the director, “I thought you wouldn’t be here today.”

“Yeah I decided to come and see the progress, I wasn’t very busy so I figured why not.” Tommy’s dad smiled.

He bid farewell to Wilbur before going to the coffee table as the actors got back to the dances. Tommy was proud he only messed up a few moves, he would be berated by someone sooner or later, but it was better by miles than it was a few days ago.

It was rather annoying not being able to use his voice, even clearing his throat had his father and Turner scowling at him.

He was, however, nodding his head to the music of the songs he didn’t have to participate in. He would admit the soundtrack the team had created was amazing. It made him feel all giddy and happy, even if the beginning of the movie was quite sad.

“Thomas, your father requests your presence in the recording room.” One of the set staff informed him. Tommy sighed, knowing that this was going to be torture, but went to the room quickly, knowing it would be worse if he took too long.

Entering the room he saw his father sitting in one of the chairs with a frown. Tommy approached him, clasping his hands behind his back.

“You requested my presence, sir?” Oh god his voice was horrid. He hoped Turner wouldn’t count this, as if he refused to speak to his father he would quite literally be dead.

“Yes, indeed. First of all, what is that filth you are wearing? Truly a disgrace to our family.”

“I am sorry, sir. I was in a hurry, and did not realize this was what I had put on. I promise it will not happen again.”

“I’ll personally see to it, do this again and all of you ‘comfy’ clothes will be thrown out.”

Tommy just nodded. He was actually quite pleased with this outcome, although he was sad he would always have to dress semi professional now.

“Now of course, that is not the main reason for this discussion, have you heard your voice? What happened? I expect pristine performance always, what gives you the right to disobey me like this?”

“I-I’m sorry sir.” His voice was cracking, “I was practicing earlier and I suppose I overused my voice.”

“I don't like pity excuses, no more words, for three days, which also means no set. You’re useless without your ability to act like a different human being. I expect you to be in my office when I return, you know what is going to happen. Now leave, get out of my studio.” His father barked.

Tommy nodded and quickly walked out of the room and out of the studio as a whole. Three days? How was he supposed to talk to Tubbo? His friend preferred calls, as he struggled reading, but if he spoke, his father would know somehow, and punish him further.

Once outside, he realized he had no way home, so even at eight in the morning he had to annoy Tubbo. As soon as he turned on his phone, he felt guilt rising in his stomach. He didn’t want to disturb his friend anymore, but would pass out before he could finish the walk home.

He texted the other ‘pls pick me up from studio 4, bad day, need to go home.’

Tubbo responded yes, but it would have to wait about ten minutes until he was fully ready.

Tommy sighed, his father likely wouldn’t be home until four or five pm, but he had eyes and cameras, so he would just have to sit in the office in silence.

Waiting for Tubbo to pull up was torture. He was so tired and cold, and wanted to sleep the whole thirty minute drive home. It sounded like heaven, before the hell that is.

He smiled slightly when Tubbo showed up, so excited for his chair. Was it sad that a car seat that his friend had tweaked for his comfort was his literal favorite place on earth? Maybe a little, but Tommy couldn’t care less.

He pulled the car door open and sat down, melting into the warmth and smell of the car.

Tubbo just smiled and turned up the calm music he had put on, pulling out of the parking lot. Tommy reclined the seat and cuddled with his blanket yet again. It was soft and Tommy’s favorite color, baby blue. The media thought it was red because his father had said it was a bold color that represented power, but in reality, baby blue was his favorite. He was out in minutes

Tubbo signed glancing at Tommy. He felt bad but if he tried to intervene it would make it worse. He made sure to bring snacks for Tommy, a granola bar and a gatorade.

They arrived, Tubbo woke Tommy up and said goodbye. Tommy was not ready.

Chapter Text

Tommy had been sulking in the office for hours. He was tired of the anticipation and just wanted to get the punishment over with. Sitting here in silence was a punishment of its own. He knew that his father would be arriving soon, but wasn’t sure how he would react. Surely he knew that Tommy losing his voice was an accident right? He couldn’t control it, and it’s hardly the blonde's fault that it was pushed too far.

Lost in his thoughts, Tommy didn’t realize that the door had opened, until his father coughed into his hand to get the teens attention. Tommy’s head snapped up, definitely giving him some form of whiplash. He went to greet his father, and beg for mercy, but was silenced with a slap to the face.

“What on earth were you thinking? This is the week that we start full on filming all of the shows and you do this?!” His father was yelling now.

“It was on purpose, wasn’t it? Wanted to get out of doing your job so you strained your voice?” Tommy shook his head, only to receive a scoff in response.

His father continued the scolding, turning all of the set mishaps of the last few days on Tommy. The other was just barely holding his composure. His self conscious mide easily agreed with the thoughts his father was voicing, and made the blonde feel even more like a failure.

“Give me your phone,” Tommy’s dad held out his hand and the younger immediately complied, bowing his head afterwards, “You are not to utter a word when you are not in the studio actively rehearsing or filmind. If you do, I’ll know.” 

Now, Tommy highly doubted this because none of his fathers lackeys cared about anything and as far as he knew, there were no cameras in his room, or with Tubbo, meaning that he could talk freely in those situations.

“I see that look in your eye,” Tommy’s thoughts were cut off with another slap, Pulling out some sort of bracelet, he harshly grabbed Tommy’s arm and put the band on it. The blonde’s face morphed into one of horror as his father took a key out and inserted it into a lock and held the band tightly onto Tommy’s wrist, with no slack.

“I had one of my tech guys whip this up! It’s pretty neat, it’s coded with your vocal cords specifically, alerting whoever is at the master computer when you make a single sound! This way I will always have people knowing if you talk. If you try to disable or take it off, I will also know and the next outcome will be much, much worse.” Tommy nodded after his father was finished, tears in his eyes. 

He had a question so he raised his hand like a child asking to use the restroom. His father rolled his eyes but walked over to the desk and returned with paper and pen, acting as if Tommy had just made his life one hundred times more difficult by doing that task.

Tommy took the paper and wrote something on it, ‘without my phone, how will i have alarms or notifications for the days events?’

His father just smiled as he read it, then proceeded to take out a little remote. Pushing a button on it, Tommy felt a sharp jolt of electricity travel up his wrist.

“Any time you hear that, I want you out the door, in appropriate clothing, in less than five minutes. It’s only really needed when in the house, as for the studio, I, along with most of my men, will be there to watch you and give you time stamps.” 

Then the man explained how anytime he was doing a scene, the band would be shut off for a set amount of time so the person hired to make sure Tommy wasn’t talking didn’t get unnecessary pings.

That was the end of the conversation, with one last longing look at his phone, Tommy stalked back to his room. As soon as the door was shut, he collapsed onto his bed and started crying, as silently as he could, so he didn’t set off the alarm. Thankfully he had mastered this skill by now and nothing pinged as far as he was concerned.

Tommy was awoken from his dreams by consistent electric shocks from the bracelet. He snapped out of his haze quite quickly, remembering what his father said yesterday. He scrambled out of bed and searched his dresser for the more formal clothes his father expected from him.

He ended up wearing a neat collared shirt with a pair of dress pants, and pristine white air forces. Then, Tommy rushed to the bathroom to do his morning routine, and made it down the stairs with seconds to spare. As he got into the car waiting for him, the driver just nodded. His fathers drivers never played music, and without access to his own, Tommy was not enjoying this ride.

It made his ears slightly uncomfortable, he didn’t know how to explain it. Tommy tapped his foot on the ground and stared out the window. He longed to see Tubbo, even if he wouldn’t be able to talk. Tommy would give the world if it meant that he could always talk with Tubbo.

Pulling up to the studio, Tommy was shaking. After last night, and yesterday as a whole, he was scared to mess up even the slightest bit. He figured they were filming “Greg’s Guide to Befriending Superheros” as he got out at a different studio than the other two films.

Entering the doors, there was lots of noise and shuffling, making Tommy’s senses slightly go into overdrive. The sudden switch from quiet to loud was always slightly overwhelming to him. He walked around trying to find his father, seeing him with a group of the audio production crew.

He approached and stood to the side until he was recognized. His father turned around and put up his fake persona.

“Tom, today we are going to be filming the beginning scene of this film. Please go to cosmetics, then go over the fight scene with your choreographer.” Tommy simply nodded and his father waived him off.

Going into the cosmetics room, there were two other people getting ready. One was a blonde, who Tommy assumed would be playing Greg, based off of his clothes; and the other, who was definitely playing Jeramiah, the hero the Tommy’s character worked under.

Sighing, he took his chair in the corner, curling in on himself, waiting for his artist to show up. 

Riley walked into the room and Tommy smiled slightly. They always made sure his outfits were comfortable and that his makeup didn’t get too close to his eyes, he hated when that happened.

“Hi, Tommy. Have you been given a run down of the costumes for today's filming?” They asked.

Tommy just shook his head, wishing he could talk to them but knowing he couldn’t. Riley just replied with a hum and explained everything to him. Tommy just nodded along and soon they started actually doing the costume preparation. The others in the room idly chatted and Tommy sat in silence, opting to zone out rather than actually paying attention.

However, his peace was interrupted when a voice calling his name snapped him out of his thoughts.

“Finally with us, mate?” The blonde laughed slightly.

Tommy nodded, then figured it was odd that he hadn’t spoken a word so he motioned for a phone with his hands, the blonde obliged.

Tommy typed out on the phone, ‘I’m on vocal rest when not recording so thats why im not speaking :)’ , then showed it to the others. 

“Aww, hope your voice gets better, can’t wait to hear it on set. Anyways, I’m Phil, I play Greg.” Tommy smiled slightly at him.

Then the other man in the room spoke up, “I’m Sam, I play Spencer.” Tommy nodded again. He liked these people, they seemed nice and didn’t call Tommy out for spacing out of the conversation.

As the three were walking onto set, Tommy’s father pulled him aside, he took the band and pressed some buttons on the side, then looked at Tommy with a nod. Even if it was just in the film, Tommy was thankful he could speak again.

~

Kai wandered through the streets, this was a rather boring shift. He would rather be back home with his dog, cuddling and watching a movie. But here he was, making sure the city was safe.

He liked to think he had a cool power, being able to control the elements. It was like he could feel the earth underneath his feet, and made it surprisingly easy to find crime. In his thoughts, Kai wasn’t paying attention to where he was walking, and he ran straight into someone falling back with an oof .

“I’m so sorry sir!” Kai scrambled up and bowed his head to the stranger, he knew from his mentor that you were always to treat others with respect, no matter their behavior towards you.

“Whoah, kid.” The man laughed, “It’s okay, it honestly just startled me a bit. Are you okay? That looked like quite the fall.”

“Yes, sir, I am alright.” Kai just wanted to leave this situation.”

“Okay, what are you doing out here at this time of night?” Kai made a face. Was this guy actually blind. Clearly Kai was in his uniform as a hero. He was one of the top heroes in the city.

“Sir, are you new around here?”

“Yes, as a matter of fact I moved here yesterday.” That explained it. The city they lived in was extremely advanced and hidden away from much of the modern world, the way of life here was quite unordinary.

I mean, you had to have some form of magic energy in your blood in order to want to live in this hell of a place. It was pretty clear this man fit the criteria because he had large black wings jetting out of his back.

Kai just wished the man a good day before running away, using the wind to boost him slightly. He lazily finished his patrol and went back to the hero headquarters. He went to the main office, smiling as he saw Spencer doing some paperwork.

That was, until all of the miraculously flew off of the table. Spencer just laughed as he looked up.

“Hello, Kai.” He opened his arms

Kai jumped into them, “Hi, Spence!” Spencer was probably Kai’s favorite person. He practically raised him and was the reason Kai was able to balance his powers.

Kai was also a very, very cuddly person when it came to Spencer. He was a rather shy hero, but loved the people he was close to. Spencer was always okay with it. Letting Kai cling to him whenever the younger desired. 

However, Spencer was also a tad bit over protective. He would watch over Kai’s every move, he knew his location and what he was doing at all times. Sure it could get rather annoying but Kai didn’t know any better. 

After laughing and more hugging, Kai and Spencer headed over for the night.

~

“That was a lovely job, gentlemen, Tom, may I speak to you for a moment before we switch costumes?” Tommy’s dad praised them.

Tommy nodded to his question and he and his father walked to one of the back snack tables and re-enabled the band. Tommy frowned lightly but his father just walked away after the interaction, so he figured he did a decent job. 

He headed back over to costume and makeup to get changed for the next scene. Phil and Sam congratulated him for doing a great job, then went into their own conversation.

Tommy liked listening to them talk, he decided. Then he remembered something. He hadn’t spoken to Tubbo in well over twenty four hours and he was probably freaking out. Hardly any of Tommy’s punishments involved his phone getting taken away and he could text Tubbo at any chance he could get.

He suddenly got up, making Riley lightly scold him. Tommy ignored them for now, walking over to Phil, tapping him on the shoulder. He turned and Tommy motioned for his phone again.

He wrote on the notes app yet again, ‘I broke my phone the other day and haven’t been able to get a new one yet. Would you mind if I texted my friend through yours to tell him I’m okay? He’s a worry wort and I haven’t been able to see him because of filming.’  

Tommy wasn’t sure where this sudden burst of confidence came from, but he decided that he trusted Phil enough to ask for this simple thing. He wasn’t sure why but this man just radiated safe.

“Yeah of course, mate.” Phil handed Tommy his phone, and with a smile, the blonde settled back into his seat to let Riley continue.

He put in Tubbo’s number as a new message and started typing.

Tubster!

It’s tommy 

He broke my phone so im texting on a co-stars

Im okay, he didn’t hurt me too bad, just a few slaps.

I have to go now were filming another scene.

See you when you are contractually obligated to kill me with exercise :p

He handed Phil’s phone back after swiping out of the app, then sat still while Riley put the last bit of hairspray in.

Back to set they go. It was a rather boring finish to the day. Kai just went to school and forgot to text when he got home, so from the office Spencer flipped out and scolded him about safety.

Filming was relatively easy today and Tommy was glad. With the little rest he got, he was thankful he wasn’t pushed too hard. After changing back into his normal attire, his father sent him to do a workout, which he dreaded. Tubbo would probably push him a tiny bit harder because he would be pissed at Tommy for scaring him like that.

Tommy just nodded, then went to wave goodbye to Phil and Sam, who would be staying to do their first meeting scene.

“Thomas Kraken Simons.” Oh boy he was doomed. An angry Tubbo was not a Tubbo you wanted to be around. 

Tommy waived and that just made Tubbo pounce on him, gripping the blonde by the shoulders.

“What the hell is wrong with you? You scared me out of my mind. Why aren’t you speaking? Why are your eyebags so big? What did you do to get your phone taken away and-and-and-” Tubbo was overworking himself with worry, Tommy was not kidding earlier.

Not being able to use his voice to calm the other down, Tommy just hugged him, rubbing his hand up and down Tubbo’s spine. The brunette sometimes got lost in his own mind, and Tommy was a big grounding place for him.

After realizing he was spiraling, he took a deep breath and held onto Tommy.

“I was scared. You always, always answer me.” Tubbo shoved his head into Tommy’s shoulder.

Tommy just pulled back and smiled at his friend. They got into the car and Tommy snatched Tubbo’s phone. Almost rolling his eyes as this was his main form of communication.

‘I'm not allowed to speak, like, at all off set anymore. It's probably a good thing, but I won't be able to respond verbally to you for a while. This stupid thing on my wrist wont come off without the key my father has, and is coded to pick up my vocal cords.’

“Oh Toms.” Tubbo just hugged him over the console whispering reassurances into the other’s ear. Tommy smiled, and melted into the embrace. Reluctantly, Tubbo pulled away, giving Tommy his blanket and pillow, claiming that they would be taking the long way to his gym, which from this set site, took around an hour and twenty minute.

Tommy just sighed in relief and got comfortable in the chair. Tubbo had asked him if he wanted the brunettes humming, or his calming music. Tommy held up a one for Tubbo’s humming, and the older gladly obliged. Singing in a soft tune and humming in areas he didn’t remember all of the words. 

They arrived at the gym, and in the bathrooms Tommy changed into the more appropriate clothing Tubbo had brought for him.

Tubbo sighed, “How much do you think that you can go today? I love you but you made me mad and I’m going to make you work to make it up to me.” Tubbo huffed at Tommy, but the blonde just found it funny, knowing that Tubbo did the work outs with him.

Tommy just shrugged and made a so-and-so signal with his hand. 

“Okay so I’ll just keep an eye on you, we’re gonna do cardio and legs, because I know you hate them.” Tubbo smirked devilishly.

Tommy just smiled and rolled his eyes, following Tubbo to the weight room to stretch. Tommy always found it quite useless, but Tubbo insisted it was important. Something about wanting to take care of his body yada yada yada.

“Okay, since I’m so nice, we can add the padding to your neck for the bar, ten pounds on each side.” Tubbo said.

Tommy smiled at him and bumped their shoulders as a sign of thanks. He took a deep breath as Tubbo put the weights on and went under the bar positioning his hands. Tommy pushed up and took a step back.

“Go for ten. Tap out if you absolutely need to.” Tubbo was spotting Tommy, and wouldn’t push the blonde past what he was capable of.

Tommy nodded then proceeded to do three squats then took a moment to reposition his feet.

“Chest up, heels on the ground.” My god Tubbo was snippity. Tommy didn’t need to know the ‘correct form’ and he would have voiced those thoughts if he didn’t catch sight of the band on his wrist. He just silently made fun of Tubbo and continued.

He went down for more reps and then made it to the final one. 

“C’mon Toms, you can do this, one more.” Tubbo was cheering him on.

Tommy went down, and then began to push up, he was straining, and then, he made it.

Tubbo cheered and jumped up and down after he made sure the bar was secured once again.

“You did it! That was the first time in literally ages you’ve done the full ten! I’m so proud of you.” Tommy smiled at his friend's excitement. That's why he made such a good trainer, he helped his people and was probably the most supportive person ever.

Tubbo then did his set with thirties on each side, which made Tommy slightly self conscious; he knew that Tubbo did this for the majority of the day almost every day, so he was bound to be stronger than the blonde.

That didn’t stop him from feeling jealous though. Maybe if he were fucking allowed to eat he would be able to build up muscle rather than look like a twing. Tubbo seemed to have noticed his change in demnor.

“Hey, I know that was only one set, but it was probably a lot for you so let's just head to the stair master for twenty then leave, ‘kay?” Tubbo’s voice was softer than it had been when he first saw the blonde, but he knew the latter was too fragile for him to remain mad.

Tommy nodded and they made their way over to the most dreaded machine in the history of- like- ever, in Tommy’s humble opinion.

Tubbo got on one, Tommy got on the other. They both hit start and Tommy wanted to die, now please, universe. He held onto the railing as he ascended the infinite stairs, just trying to focus on breathing.

It was getting progressively harder actually, and Tubbo seemed to take notice of that and shut off his machine. He went behind Tommy, knowing that the blonde was about to pass out. True to word, about five seconds later Tommy’s eyes fluttered shut and he fell backwards into Tubbo who caught him and lowered both of them to the floor.

He felt bad, he thought Tommy could handle more today, but he was clearly wrong and they would have to go back to simple workouts until the blonde was allowed to eat more. Maybe he could ask Tommy’s father, claiming his lack of nutrition was stunting their progress. 

Yeah, Tubbo thought to himself. That has to work! He was tapping Tommy’s cheek continuously, waiving off anyone in the gym, claiming the blonde just had low blood pressure.

Tubbo just continued this motion until Tommy started to stir and whined, shoving himself into Tubbo’s stomach. The brunette winched as the watch beeped slightly, Tommy had used his vocal cords.

“Shhh, Toms you can’t make noise. Remember the band?” At that Tommy shot up, looking at Tubbo full of fear.

“I promise I’ll try to come up with a good excuse, for now how about we get off of the dirty gym floor and rinse off in the showers.” Tommy made a face, he didn’t particularly like public gym showers but this one was okay. 

Besides, he couldn’t shower at Tubbo’s as, ‘this shower is mine and only fine, fuck off’. Luckily Tommy didn’t have to suffer alone because Tubbo opted to also rinse off in these showers after his sweaty workouts, in between clients.

Handing Tommy his own pile of clothes and toiletries, Tubbo walked to the end shower with his own things. Tommy sighed, going into a middle shower. He would admit the hot water felt quite nice on his sore body. And the soft clothes afterwards definitely made him feel better.

Tubbo was waiting in the locker room area, in his own comfy clothes, and when Tommy came out, he smiled at him.

“We’re gonna go out to eat and get a nice dinner, my treat. And I talked with your father,” Tommy tensed, “It’s alright, it’s nothing bad. I just told him that the band malfunctioned, and picked up my voice, that I would ‘never allow you to disobey his wishes’ and he took it. Then I talked to him about the eating. I told him that the decrease in meals has led to a stunt in our progress and suggested I make a diet that will allow you to keep your form while also being able to advance more in the fitness realm.”

Tommy’s breath hitched. Did that mean that Tommy would get Tubbo’s meals more often, or would his father reject Tubbo’s wishes and make everything worse?

Tubbo noticed the other's mood shift and immediately went to reassure him, “ He agreed, Toms! I wouldn’t have even mentioned it if he didn’t. I’m basically going to be like your personal chef now. Your father wanted extreme consistency if I was going to break his conditioning. So he uh- deamoned- no- damadad- no -d-d-d-'' Tubbo cut himself off with a frustrated sigh. His dyslexia often affected his ability to pronounce words correctly, and in some situations caused a stutter to arise in his speech. Tommy often helped him by getting him to breathe and helping he get through the word. However, Tommy couldn’t speak so he just sent over, placing a hand on Tubbo’s shoulder, squeezing for comfort. 

Tommy took the older’s phone and went to google, typing in the word Tubbo wanted to say, then clicked the text to speech option.

“De-man-ded” came the voice from the phone.

Tubbo took a breath, “Yeah, thank you. He de-de-demanded that I cook for you, in your home, three times a day every day so that his goons could monitor what I make.” Tubbo finished with a small smile.

Tommy just looked confused. Tubbo had dropped out of school after an argument with his parents, but had made a real name for himself in this town, and was busy almost all day every day with clients.

Tommy ushered the brunette to elaborate, and he did, “I mentioned that I was often busy with my other clients, but he threatened to fire me if I didn’t comply as, ‘you brought up, you now have to deal with it’ so I have to talk to my manager here, but it's fine! I’m sure it will be fine.”

Tommy was suddenly overwhelmed with guilt. Tubbo would have to basically be his private chef? That meant that his father would make Tubbo come to the house at ungodly hours to make him food? And he could lose so much time with his clients?

Tubbo took the other’s hand, “Toms, this is in no way, shape, or form your fault. I love you and am doing it because I think you deserve this okay? I agreed this is my responsibility. I’m not mad at you, I’m just thankful that I finally get to give you three meals a day.” Tubbo then hugged the younger and they sat there, on the gym benches, just basking in each other's presence.

Tommy’s father was rather lenient with Tubbo, but was still strict with his pay and rules. All ingredients for food would come from the teens pocket. Which was a rather large task considering that Tubbo had to switch to only part time and the gym, his manager had seen the two boys and knew of Tubbos involvement in the others life. She agreed to let him go part time, and allowed him to keep his position.

But with less hours, Tubbo would have even less money than he does now, and would have to contribute a rather large amount of that cash to groceries for the Simons’.

He also was not allowed to eat the meals himself, as they were for his son, and he didn’t get paid to act like a pig when in his household. That was fine. He would probably just have to time his meals more erratically.

And finally, he was to be available twenty-four-seven with his services. If he ‘truly wanted Tommy to progress, that meant being available to cook whenever the blonde was home from studio hours’. Meaning that he could be cooking Tommy a breakfast at three am or a dinner at eleven p.m.

As much of an inconvenience as all of this was, Tubbo loves Tommy, and if he had the slightest chance to make his life more bearable, he would do it. Looking at the blonde, with a now full stomach, asleep in his passenger seat, Tubbo knew it was all worth it. He stopped at a grocery store and woke Tommy up to tell him he would be back, and went inside. Tubbo did go for slightly lighter options, he would have to ease Tommy back into three meals a day. He got quite a bit of food, figuring it would be easier than having to come back every few days to restock.

Walking out of the store and to the car, Tubbo sighed. He had just spent over four hundred dollars on ingredients that he wasn’t even allowed to consume. The only thought in his head was for tommy for tommy for tommy for tom- and he was at the car again.

He opened the back door and unloaded the cart. After putting said cart into its designated area in the parking lot, he got back into the driver seat and started to go to Tommy's house, the blonde still sleeping. It was around midnight now, after all, the work out and dinner, and shopping had taken a few hours. So he would be home hopefully around two am. He hoped that Tommy wasn’t called too soon tomorrow morning, or this morning he supposed. He wanted at least a little bit of sleep.

Once they pulled into Tommy’s driveway, Tubbo shoke the blonde awake and helped him inside. He politely introduced himself to the staff and explained his role and presence, which they nodded to and then moved about on their own. 

Tommy pulled Tubbo to his room and then dragged him onto the bed, practically laying on top of the other to keep him there. Tubbo just giggled.

“Toms I can’t stay, you know that. I promise when you wake up I'll be here.” Tubbo wiggled his way out of the blonde's grasp, tucking him in gently, saying he would be back soon. Then we went to the car and made three trips to bring all of the groceries in. Tommy’s father must have had another home that was his primary one because the pantry and fridge in this place were practically barren. 

Organizing the kitchen was fun, Tubbo put all of the ingredients where he liked and then headed home for a long night of rest.

Tommy woke up to the zapping on his wrist, and rushed to get ready. He flew out of his room, only to be stopped by one of the cleaners.

“Your father wants to inform you that when you are awoken, you now have thirty minutes to be ready and out the door, accommodating for your new meal plan.” Tommy just nodded and the person walked away. Tommy remembered Tubbo mentioning the meal thing but was too tired to remember much of the conversation.

The time on his band showed five fifteen in the morning, Tommy laughed at the fact that one of the butlers would have to be making him food at this hour, only to enter the kitchen and see Tubbo. 

With half lidded eyes, the brunette was making an omelet, currently frying it on a pan. Tommy froze and suddenly the conversation came back full force, Tubbo was the one who had to cook. 

Once again filled with extreme pain and guilt, Tommy threw himself at the older, sobbing into his shoulder. How was he going to fix this mess?

Chapter Text

After getting Tommy to calm down, Tubbo reassured him that he was doing this because he wanted to, and not because he felt obligated. 

“But- your job. You love your job!” Tommy was never going to get over the fact that his best friend was now under more of his father’s cruel policies.

“Yes, I do, and I still work there, just part time now. But I also love you, and if I can be the reason you get three meals a day, then I’m going to do it.” Tubbo pulled Tommy in for a hug again.

He then urged the blonde to eat, so that he could be full when he went to the studio. He also handed Tommy a bag he had packed, with a few snacks that fit in the meal plan, to help him through the day. Tommy had to admit it felt quite great to eat in the morning again, and he was full of energy when he arrived at the studio. 

Another day of “Boys in the backroads” was in store. Tommy went to get his hair and makeup done, but he had to admit, he hated the feeling of the fake soot that they put on his face. 

He started walking over to the alleyway they were still using and mentally prepared for the scene they were about to shoot. It hit slightly too close to home for Tommy, and he had to be fully in acting mode, or else he would slip up, and it would all become too real. He passed his father, who shut off the cuff.

Tommy sighed and hummed softly to himself to warm up his voice.

There was a loud “action!” and Tommy took a deep breath.

~

“Well well well, what do we have here?” Leo was cornered. The man figured out he stole his wallet, and had come back.

“How about we all just take a nice deep breath, huh fellas?” Leo laughed nervously.

“I don’t think that necessary, you stole from me.”

“You’re rich?! You can't spare a few dollars for the poor and homeless?” Leo spat right back.

“Oh please, it’s not like you deserve this anyways. Why don't you make your money and be a little new paper boy? Certainly stealing is not the best solution.” 

“If you let go of me, you can have your money back. I’m too tired to argue, and honestly I just want to sleep.” Leo wasn’t in the mood for banter tonight. He had already had a rough day and wasn’t sure he could handle much more.

The man dropped Leo more suddenly than expected, and he hit the ground with a thud. Groaning, Leo took the man's wallet out of his pocket and handed it back. But the man wasn’t leaving.

“Please just leave, you won’t ever have to deal with me again.”

“Actually I have a better idea, how about you work for me.” The man seemed serious, “If you complain so much about needing money, then take a job at my company, doing whatever I say.”

Leo laughed, this man couldn’t be serious. To think that he would accept such a crazy deal.

“I think I’ll pass, rich boy.” Leo stood up to walk away before his wrist was roughly grabbed and he was turned around.

“It wasn’t a question. This is how you can make it up to me for stealing my belongings.” The man then smiled, “I expect you here at sunrise tomorrow, to begin. And if you don’t show up, I’ll have a nice little jail cell with your name on it waiting.”

And with that looming threat, the man just walked away, leaving Leo at a loss for words. He was actually going to have to do work. This was absurd, he was a big man and didn’t need to work an hour of his life. But if he wanted to have a life outside of a prison cell, then he would just have to suck it up.

Leo sighed and walked back to his hidden grove, a small area surrounded by walls and blocked by two industrial trash cans. The other things that fit through the gap were small creatures and Leo’s frail body.

Laying on his dirty mattress, equipt with several discarded blankets and stuffed animals, Leo fell into a dreamless sleep.

~

“Cut!” Tommy let out a breath. He thought it went pretty well. Walking back over to his father, Tommy was shaking. This was the movie where Tommy had the least amount of confidence. It was different from anything he had done before. Despite this, Tommy thought he had done decently. His father, however, liked to constantly remind him that he was weaker in this role and would have to work ten times as hard.

“Thomas, you need to get a grip,” His father started as he re-enabled the cuff, “I mean honestly, you’re lucky I even gave you a chance in this role. I could have hired someone much more talented and deserving than you. So, if you would like to keep this role, I suggest you actually try.” He finished with a huff and then walked away.

Tommy had tears welling up in his eyes. He was weak. Even after all of these years, Tommy still let his father’s words get to him. No matter how many times Tubbo reassured him that they weren’t true.

Turning away from where his father had been, Tommy’s eyes widened at the sight of his co-star who was staring at him with furrowed eyebrows and a frown. Tommy just smiled sheepishly and tried to walk away.

But, before he could, Tommy’s wrist was grabbed and he flinched. He turned and the man seemed even more concerned, though did not waver in his grip; He continued, taking Tommy to his dressing room and locking the door.

Tommy was trembling now. This man- Techno..something was going to kill him. That was the biggest rule. ‘Don’t let anyone who I haven’t directly told know.’ But that was ruined now. 

As Tommy was hyperventilating, Technoblade was just in shock. He was like- ninety five percent sure he just witnessed child abuse. Like what the fuck. The kid looked so scared. Techno wasn’t the best with social ques, but he wasn’t stupid.

“Hey, I need you to take a deep breath.” Techno tried his best to be comforting without touch. He himself wasn’t fond of it and clearly the kid had an issue with it too.

Tommy didn’t seem to be listening. It actually seemed to be getting worse, so the ‘breathe with me’ was out of the question. Time for a different calming tactic.

“Tommy, if you can hear me, I need you to give me some sort of sign.” The request was met with a hesitant small nod from the blonde.

Techno took that as a good start. He hoped that he could get the kid to calm down. 

“Okay can I grab your hand?” Tommy frantically shook his head no, “Alright. That’s okay. What can I do to help you calm down?”

Tommy’s breath seemed to hitch for a moment, then he made a hand gesture for the other person's phone. Techno, albeit confused, complied. After unlocking his phone, he handed it to Tommy who went to messages and typed in a number. Techno was slightly looking over his shoulder, wanting to make sure the kid wasn’t doing something sketchy.

The typing was shaky but after a few seconds, Techno could read the message Tommy had typed out to the number.

‘H3lp. i csnt breatha nd neeed ur v0ice’

Three bubbles immediately started popping up, just a simple confirmation, and then Techno’s phone was ringing.

A voice, sounding around the same age as Tommy, started speaking, “Hi, Toms, and whoever he’s with. Just back off and give us a few moments, he’ll calm down.” 

Techno didn’t verbally respond but went to a chair on the other side of the room. The guy on the phone figured as much as he started rambling about the different types of flowers and their meanings.

Slowly but surely, Tommy had started to call down. His eyes became less foggy and he could actually hear his surroundings, they were no longer muddled. Tommy looked up and met eyes with Techno, smiling the smallest amount. He then went back to the messaging app typing again to Tubbo.

‘thanks. love you. can you tell the guy what just happened and who you are? He probably thinks that i’m insane.”

“Yeah I can.” Tubbo’s voice sounded through the phone. Tommy then beckoned Technoblade over and handed him the phone.

Tubbo started speaking again, “Hello to whoever owns this phone. I’m Tubbo, Tommy’s best friend. He just had a panic attack- uhm I don’t exactly know what triggered it but most of the time calling me is the way to calm him down. So maybe save my number in your phone in case it happens again.”

Techno nodded thoughtfully to himself before replying, “Alright. Thanks for calming him down. We have to get back to filming now but I’ll save your number in my phone. I’m Technoblade, by the way.”

“Okay, thank you Technoblade. Tommy? I have to go as well but I’ll see you later, be safe.” Then the line went dead.

Techno then looked to the blonde, who was sheepishly staring at the ground, “Can we talk about what I saw?”

Tommy simply shook his head then looked up with a pleading look. 

“C’mon kid, you have to give me something. I can’t just ignore that conversation. I understand that you might be scared but you have to cooperate with me.” Techno tried to sound more soft and caring, even if it was hard for his monotone vocal chords.

Tommy just signed then motioned for Techno’s phone again. He typed more words then showed the screen to the other.

‘I cant speak, vocal rest. My father was just joking. It gets me to perform better, please just ignore it and move on with your day.’

Before Techno could get a word of doubt in, Tommy turned and walked out of the room. The blonde was breathing shakily, trying not to cry. He could have told  someone. He could have been saved . But deep down, Tommy knew that that wasn’t an option. He had to keep this to himself. It was his own fault anyways.

He walked over to his stuff and grabbed his water bottle, then looked through it. He smiled, wider than he would have liked to admit, when he saw two granola bars, his favorite flavor. Along with the food, there was a note, clearly handwritten and scratchy.

‘Have a good day toms, i hope you enjoy the bars, their your favorete. girl boss that set like its no ones bussisiness ;p’ 

Tommy smiled and had to hide a laugh. While he did still feel bad that the brunette had to give up so much just to give him a human right, Tubbo knew how to make anything better. Although his previous fuck up was not forgotten, Tommy’s shoulders un tensed slightly and he walked away feeling slightly less like a ball about to crumble and explode.

He ate his food, cautiously watching every corner to make sure that it wasn’t a joke, and that no one was going to take it. Tommy would be lying if he said he wasn’t genuinely surprised when he finished and hadn’t been reprimanded.

The blonde was snapped out of his thoughts when scene six was called to start in a few minutes. He headed back to the dressing room to make sure he still looked okay then went to places, after going to his father for the band beforehand. 

Tommy laid on the mattress he had just been on previously and closed his eyes as “action!” was heard in the distance.

~

Leo was honestly in shock. A rich man had just no doubtedly outsmarted him. He was a simple boy. While he stole for survival, prison wasn’t a huge bucket list item that Leo wanted to check off any time.. Ever. So against his better judgment, he agreed to himself that he would actually show up tomorrow and see what this guy was really made of.

He was shaking slightly as he walked, not as brave as he had been earlier. Despite the false walls he puts up at the end of the day he’s a child. He shouldn’t be sitting on the streets homeless. Maybe this would be a good opportunity for him. Worst comes to worst, Leo can skip towns again and find another rich community to bother. 

With those thoughts in his mind, Leo hadn’t even realized he had arrived at the alleyway from the night before and took a deep breath. Then, he looked over his clothes. They were ratchet, with holes all over and way too big for his small frame. Now, Leo was the biggest man ever. He wouldn't let you way otherwise, but right now, he was feeling rather self conscious.

The boy was snapped out of his thoughts when he heard footsteps entering the alley. Leo took a deep breath and tried his best to put on his scary persona (hoping the man couldn’t see the tremor in his hands).

“Hello.” Leo grit out between a shaky sigh.

“Hello, I’m glad you could make it.” The man snickered to himself.

~

Techno eyed Tommy oddly as they finished up with the notes for today and then huffed, walking to his stuff. Tommy was timid as his father turned on the band yet again, but he atleast got to go home early. Tubbo’s conversation with his father must have truly done wonders. 

Tommy was zoning out the entire ride home but when he arrived, he was surprised to see Tubbo in the kitchen, with bags under his eyes, making a sandwich.

He looked up as Tommy walked over to him and greeted the blonde with a small smile. 

“I know you’re probably tired from today so when you eat this you can go to bed.” Tubbos voice sounded like music to Tommy’s ears. Tubbo continued, “We will start daily workouts again in about two weeks so you can build up some strength and food stamina first.”

Tommy smiled, he would actually be able to have fun working out instead of feeling like death the entire time. Having no way to verbally respond to the shorter, Tommy walked closer and threw his arms around Tubbo. He squeezed tightly and relished in the cinnamon scent the other gave off. Tubbo just giggled slightly and guided Tommy to sit in one of the barstools, placing the sandwich and a glass of water in front of him.

Tommy practically inhaled the sandwich. While he might not have done a lot at the studio today, he did have to use a lot of energy and redo the scenes quite a few times to get them the way his father preferred. Tommy loved Tubbo’s cooking. While he still felt bad for the older having to come in at any given time to make him food, he was thankful that he would get to eat his best friend's cooking. Tubbo sat next to him, leaning his head on the tallers shoulder while Tommy was eating. Tubbo was thinking he could stay with Tommy tonight. Afterall, the house staff didn’t seem to mind his presence and it’s not like Tommy’s father would be home at all.

Once Tommy was finished with the food, Tubbo sent him upstairs to change while he cleaned all of the dishes. It was nearing eleven p.m. so it was definitely time for the blonde to sleep. And Tubbo had done a pretty intense workout with a class at his gym today so he was also so ready to go to sleep.

He walked up the stairs, yawning, and saw Tommy sitting on his bed holding his little cow plushie that Tubbo had gotten for him when they first reconciled as friends.

“Move over, I’m spending the night. No purpose in me driving forty minutes home to just come back in a few hours.” Tommy smiled widely.

He hadn’t had a sleepover in years and one with Tubbo?! This was going to be amazing. As a smarter thought, Tommy figured he could ask his father if Tubbo could have a room in the mansion. I mean, he was never home and Tubbo despised his house so it seemed like the perfect idea. 

He had scooched over enough that Tubbo could comfortably sit on the bed and the other flopped on top of him. Sighing with content and closing his eyes. Tommy just laughed at this, seeing his friend get comfortable so quickly.

Tubbo blindly reached up and swatted Tommy with his hand, “Shhhh- it’s sleepy time. G’night.” Tommy rolled his eyes but complied, getting into a more comfortable position, Tubbo snuggled into his chest. The shorter always claimed that he hated physical touch but with Tommy he acted like a koala.

The lights were shut off and both teens went to sleep happy and warm in each other's arms.

Tubbo woke up to the sound of his alarm and quickly shut it off. Thankfully Tommy didn’t wake up, Tubbo would hate himself if he interrupted the little sleep his friend got. Tubbo looked at the time on his phone, three a.m. Tubbo always knew that working in this industry meant strange hours but this was absurd. Hopefully these movies will be over soon and Tommy will be able to relax. 

He slipped out of the other's arms and walked down the stairs to the kitchen. He decided to make eggs and toast. It was relatively simple and would be done quickly. Getting the ingredients out, he started to hum to himself, a song that his mom used to sing to him before they decided he was worth nothing. 

He was getting beside himself, his parents didn’t deserve him and as soon as he’s eighteen he can move out of that hell hole. He was trying to be quiet while working, both so that Tommy wouldn’t wake up and so he didn’t get berated by the staff that were likely working around the house. 

Tubbo hadn’t even realized how much time had passed until he jolted to a touch on the shoulder. Turning around he saw Tommy and smiled slightly. Tommy just laughed and pointed behind the other. Tubbo looked and saw that the eggs were done and borderline burning so he quickly took the pan off and shut off the heat. Apparently he had done almost everything with the dish on autopilot while he was zoned out. 

“Good morning golden boy.” Tubbo’s voice was raspy from sleep still. Tommy huffed in response and just shoved the other out of the way so he could grab a plate. He then set the plate down, getting a portion of the eggs and one of the two pieces of toast and going to the bar stool. He looked up and saw Tubbo looking at him, gesturing to the extra food.

Tommy, confused, grabbed Tubbo's phone off of the counter and a few seconds later a voice was playing.

‘Its for you is it not? I thought we were sharing?’

Tubbo smiled slightly then shook his head, “No it’s for you. Your father made it very clear you were the only one allowed to eat the food and there’s too many staff for me to risk taking that rule.” After speaking Tubbo put the remainder of the eggs and the other piece of toast on Tommy’s plate. 

The blonde just looked up with a frown and Tubbo rolled his eyes, “Come on, Tommy. I’m fine, I promise. I can eat before I go to work. Stop being such a worry wart and finish.”

Tubbo then took a seat next to Tommy and rested his head on the tallers shoulder. Tommy laughed as less than three minutes later the brunette was sleeping and cuddling into Tommy’s shoulder. Of course Tubbo would be tired. He wasn’t used to the crazy working hours that Tommy was. 

Tommy sighed as he set his empty plate to the side. Despite working out every day, Tubbo was surprisingly light and easy to carry. The blonde giggled as Tubbo burrowed into him even further, mumbling the entire time. Tommy set Tubbo on his bed and pulled the blankets up to the other’s chin. Tubbo just sighed in his sleep and pulled the blankets tighter around himself. 

Tommy shut the lights off and walked out of the room, shutting the door quietly on his way. He then walked out the front door and into the car that was waiting for him. The driver was different this time, they smiled at Tommy slightly and then turned on the radio . Tommy almost gasped. Anytime he didn’t have his own music the driver refused to acknowledge him, let alone turn on the music! It wasn’t the best thing ever, country in fact, and Tommy hated country. But anything was better than this awful silence.

The real shocker though was when the driver spoke to him, “You can change the channel if you don’t like it. I'm not sure what kids these days listen to.” And Tommy was practically beaming. So maybe he was attention deprived, just a little, and this interaction was making his emotions go through the roof, but still. He hesitantly reached over and changed the dial to a different channel until he recognized a song, so he kept it there and swayed his head to the beat lightly.

He was still giddy when they arrived at the studio. He smiled brightly at the driver and made a point to not slam the door. Walking inside the building his mood dimmed slightly. Hopefully his singing would be on point today. He wanted to prove that his voice was better (and hopefully get this stupid wrist band off he hated not being able to talk and it was starting to-) he shook his head to clear his thoughts. 

Walking into the dressing room, he waved at Wilbur who was enthusiastically talking about his… hatred of anteaters? Tommy didn’t know what to make of it. He sat down in his chair and Riley made quick work of fixing the blonde's hair, complaining about how they never take care of it. He just shunned them as he looked around the room. This was the most fun of the dressing rooms because it’s for a musical. That meant it was more festive and costumes were more exciting and everything was just slightly more chaotic, just the way Tommy liked.

They were practicing songs yet again. This time Tommy could actually sing and was able to get through all of his songs without even a single voice crack. While they were walking to the set to film the beginning of his favorite scene in the entire movie. Tommy liked to pretend that these shows were real, especially the ones with family. He could pretend they were real and that he wasn’t truly alone. 

“Action!”

~

“Oh come on C, you know that I have to go out for the day. I promise I will come back with dinner.” Raine tried to convince the younger that we would be okay for a few hours.

“But- but Raine, you can’t leave a kid alone, please! What if you don’t come back?” Cedar’s voice got quiet at the end and Raine’s expression softened.

“Oh Cedar,” Raine walked over to his little brother, taking his hand in reassurance, “I know you’re nervous about me leaving but- hey look at me- but I promise that I will be back before the sunsets, okay?” Cedar just nodded before hugging his brother with all of the strength the eleven year old could muster.

“Pinky promise?” It was said in such a timed voice Raine wanted to melt.

“Oh, of course, little one.” They took each other's pinkys and this allowed Cedar to relax more. His brother would never ever break a pinky promise.

Raine cuddled with the other for ten more minutes until he truly had to leave. His heart broke slightly at having to practically pry the younger's arms off of him.

Walking to the door, Raine called out, “I love you, C, I’ll be back later.”

“I love you-” Raine shut the door,  “-more.” Cedar sighed and walked over to their makeshift bed of blankets they collected off of the streets and failed to hold in his tears. He weakly cried into the pillows until he fell asleep.

~

“Cut! Everyone take ten and then well come back for when Raine comes back. Tom, get over here.” Tommy wiped his eyes, and walked over to his father.

“If you do well the rest of today, your punishment will be over, make it happen for both of our sakes. Having to look at you this close to me this often is horrible.”

Tommy nodded and turned around going to get his- and Wilbur was staring at him. ‘For fucks sake why is this happening every time like seriously’ he was grumbling to himself trying to speedily walk away, to no avail. Wilbur caught his arm and he flinched, the other frowned.

“Hey is everything alright?” 

Tommy nodded and ripped his arm out of the other's grip and walked away. Time to see what Tubbo packed him today. Water, again, not that Tommy was complaining, there were days where he wasn’t even allowed that. And then a chicken wrap, yum. The note today said ‘i hope yore day is amazing! You are goeng to do grate. <3’ Tommy smiled. These were definitely going to become his favorite part of the day.

He quickly ate his food then got back into the mindset of a sad little brother. He glared at Wilbur when he saw the other’s pitying expression. He resumed his position on the set and then it started again.

~

“C?!” Raine sounded out of breath as he entered the shack they called a home and was relieved to see his little brother sleep and okay. As he got closer though, he could see the remnants of tear tracks on the smaller’s cheeks and sighed. Raine would take Cedar being mad at him over putting him at risk by taking him into town. 

Cedar also didn’t need to know that Raine had to steal food to survive. Running from a barrage of bakers was not the funnest experience on the planet. But he had to feed them, he wasn’t going to risk not having any food at all.

Raine walked over to Cedar and gently shook him awake. The eleven year old mumbled as he slowly opened his eyes. Upon seeing his brother his eyes sparkled and he leapt into the others arms, thankfully Raine had the strength to hold him still. He spun them around and relished in the sounds of Cedars' laughs.

“Hi Buba.” Cedar whispered when they were done spinning.

“Hello, C. I missed you. But look, I’m back on time and I have fresh bread to go with some fish.” Cedar made a face hating fish. “Oh I know it’s not the best but it’s all that we have right now so can you at least try to enjoy it? For me?” 

Cedar pouted but relented, “Manipulative jerk.” Raine just laughed as he set the other down and they walked into the corner of the shack they had dubbed to be the kitchen.

~

“Lovely work today boys, I look forward to seeing this relationship blossom as we continue shooting. Tom, stay for a moment before heading out, would you?”

Tommy nodded immediately and avoided Wilburs eyes and the man slowly walked away. He was so excited to get this stupid band off, not only did he miss being able to talk to Tubbo, but he hated the zapping that woke him everymorning. His wrist was starting to become sore and it was more annoying than anything ever. 

His father began speaking again, “Now, know that getting this off is a privilege and it has the ability to come back any moment if you do something stupid. And your phone has strict screen times for apps now, to stop you from getting distracted.” 

Tommy just nodded and held his wrist out, wanting this interaction to be over. Thankfully, his dad quickly unlocked it, taking the band off, pocketing it. He then handed Tommy his phone and shooed him away. 

Tommy was giddy as he walked out of the studio, even more happy when he realized the driver was the same one as that morning. This meant that it was not a one off thing and was possibly a permanent hire.

“Howdy, same as earlier, you can play whatever music you would like. And your father informed me that you got your phone and talking privileges back to feel free to connect it to the aux.” The words ended with a kind smile from the other in the car.

Tommy shook his hands to get his excitement out and connected his phone, playing his favorite songs the entire drive back.

He arrived at home, happy to see Tubbo’s car in the driveway. He practically leapt up the steps and through the door. Tubbo-who was currently making food in the kitchen-was startled and looked at Tommy with a confused expression. Tommy just giggled in response.

He skipped to the kitchen, “Guess who's back bitches.” 

Tubbo gasped and ran to Tommy, engulfing the other in a hug, “You have no idea how much I have missed your voice.”

Tommy just hugged the brunette tighter and whispered reassurances to the other, now that he thought about it, this situation must have been hard for Tubbo as well. The other hadn’t hung out with many others and it probably hurt not being able to hear his best friend's voice for almost a week.

Chapter Text

After Tubbo’s initial freak out, he became ecstatic that the blonde could finally talk again. He rambled for over twenty minutes about how much he missed the other’s voice and wanted him to talk for an hour nonstop to make up for it.

Tommy just laughed at the shorters enthusiasm, taking Tubbo’s shoulder and telling him to “chill the fuck out.”

Tubbo took a deep breath before agreeing and just hugging the other again. Tommy complied and just hugged the other back. They stood there for what felt like forever until there was a beep from the oven. Tubbo reluctantly pulled himself out of Tommy’s arms and went to pull the food out. 

“I made you some broccoli with chicken and rice. This is a personal favorite of mine and if you don’t enjoy it and give it a ten out of ten, I will be throwing you off of the balcony.” Tubbo then set the plate full of food down in front of Tommy, who was now sitting in a barstool facing the counter.

“C’mon Tubs you think I could possibly rate anything that you make below a ten? Also are you sure you can’t have some? He would never know, and now that you’re spending more time here there's no reason for that rule to matter.” Tommy was using his puppy dog eyes and he knew it.

Tubbo sighed, “If I eat some will you stop pestering me?” Tommy nodded his head vigorously and Tubbo took the small amount of leftovers and placed them into a separate dish, sitting next to Tommy.

Tommy looked content now and started scarfing his food down while Tubbo ate his slowly and with a little bit of hesitance. 

After the boys finished dinner they both headed again to Tommy’s room. Laying down, Tommy took a second to just admire the brunette. He didn’t know what he would do without Tubbo in his life. They got comfortable under the covers, Tommy being the voluntary pillow for the shorter. Tubbo just smiled, placing his head on Tommy’s chest and promptly passing out.

Tommy just hugged the other boy tighter. Tubbo was always a light in Tommy’s day. He made the blonde feel needed, and like he belonged. Not only did Tommy cherish their inside jokes, but he cherished the way that Tubbo cared for him unlike anyone else ever had. I mean, the boy went to lengths to redesign his passenger seat to be a functioning bed just so Tommy would be comfortable in the short time they spent together. 

Being friends from a young age, it’s bound that the duo would be closer than other friendships, but Tubbo was Tommy’s brother. He would do absolutely anything for the other even if it hurt him in the process. This brought up Tommy’s thought from earlier about asking his father if Tubbo could permanently stay here. He owed himself that he would ask tomorrow, no matter what the outcome would be.

Smiling slightly, Tommy held Tubbo tighter and drifted to a comfortable sleep.

Tommy woke up to Tubbo gently shaking him and dim lights covering the room.

“Rise and shine sleepyhead.” Tommy just groaned in response and begrudgingly pulled himself off of the mattress. Tubbo laughed and told him to be down in ten minutes, then walked out of the room. 

Tommy got his clothes out and changed quickly. His hands were shaking. They always do that now.  No, now was not the time for these types of observations. He was determined to work up the courage to ask his father about Tubbo today. Speaking of the brunette, he would get mad if he was left waiting any longer. 

We walked to the kitchen and saw Tubbo making- he wasn’t really sure but he knew it would be good. As he always did, Tommy walked up behind the other and went to wrap his arms around him, but Tubbo flinched away, a hitch in his breath. Tommy pulled away as if he had been burned, extremely confused. Tubbo had never shown this type of hesitation toward touch, especially with Tommy. 

“Tubs? Are you alright?” Tommy’s eyebrows were furrowed with concern.

Tubbo just nodded his head, taking a deep breath before he answered, “Y-y-yeah big man, just s-startled me is all.” His voice was shaking, and that did not make Tommy feel any better. He had never seen Tubbo this jumpy and it was worrying.

“Are you sure?”

Tubbo laughed lightly, “Yes, Toms. I promise I’m okay, really I’m just tired and you scared me.”

Tommy took that as an okay and returned to his position  holding Tubbo. 

“Alrighty,” Tubbo started spinning around with a plate in his hands, “Here is your breakfast kind sir. I hope you enjoy it.” Tommy rolled his eyes at the formalities, but dug in anyways. He never actually knew who taught Tubbo to cook, yet Tommy thanks them everyday. 

“I was thinking today when you get back we could go for a walk? I miss spending time with you when I’m not just cooking.” The shorter smiled sheepishly. 

Tommy immediately agreed, he also missed spending time with his best friend.

Walking out the door Tommy promised he would be back before the sun set (no matter what it took). He wouldn’t let Tubbo down.

Tommy was beyond thrilled that the new driver was yet again there, meaning the car rides were actually enjoyable, not completely miserable the entire time. He hoped that the driver wasn’t just putting up an act and would continue to be this nice continuously. 

He took a deep breath in as his songs played through the radio, he was going to ask his father as soon as he got to the studio. And he had been doing better lately! So there was more of a chance of getting a yes in response.

Arriving at the studio, Tommy bid the driver farewell and entered. They were filming more of “Boys in the Backroads” today, and he would be lying if he said he wasn’t excited. This was the day where his character would get to start his job (it also meant it was the last day he would have to feel dirty in costume seeing as the next episode he would…) and he ran into someone.

“Oh my goodness, I am so sorry.” Tommy rushed out, “I wasn’t paying attention and it was truly my bad I promise it won't happen ag-” “Whoow there kid, it’s really okay.”

That cut off Tommy’s rambling. He looked up and saw Technoblade, the most intimidating man he's ever known. But the pink haired man simply smiled and said it was okay before finishing his walk through the doorway.

Tommy was dumbfounded. Of course he had to act like an idiot around one of the coolest actors he’s ever worked with. It’s fine. He had to get back to the task at hand, his father. 

Walking in, Tommy immediately spotted the man talking with some of the set assistants and the blonde took a deep breath to steady himself. He continued his steps and stopped mere feet from his parental figure.

“Uhm- e-excuse m-me father,” Said father whipped his head around to face Tommy and his gaze hardened. He shooed away the people he was talking with and gestured for Tommy to continue. 

The blonde did so, “S-so I w-was w-wondering if-” “For the love of god cut it out with the stuttering. Get on with it so we can start filming.” an unamused face accompanied his fathers words. 

“Right my a-apologies sir. I was hoping to ask about my chef and trainer. There is no sense in him driving forty minutes both directions three times a day in order to work out and make me food. I suggest we let him stay at the house so that he can- uhm” Tommy was trying to think of a good excuse to let Tubbo stay and what better solution than saying it would make his own life harder, “So he can push me harder and-and more often.” He blew out a breath of air when he finished, daring to glance at his father. 

The man just looked unimpressed and rolled his eyes before answering, “Go ahead why on earth would I care, not like I’m ever there cause why would I ever want to see your face outside of work? Now go get ready before you put us behind even more.”

Tommy’s eyes lit up and he internally cheered and went to the dressing room. While changing into his clothes, he found himself becoming slightly annoyed at the fabric. For having the exact measurements for his clothing, his costumes were awfully tight. 

When Tommy finished changing he went to hair and makeup, smiling at Riley as he sat down. Technoblade walked in right at that moment and Tommy immediately turned his gaze downward. After Technoblade almost found out about his secret last time, things were still incredibly awkward, not to mention embarrassing himself this morning. 

Unfortunately his shyness couldn’t last very long as Riley gently grabbed his chin and tilted it upward to put some of the- weird skin colored liquid stuff- on his face. They gave him a reassuring smile as they grabbed one of the big fluffy brushes next. Tommy just sighed. He forgot how much of a lame person he was around other actors and was sure that Technoblade would rather have literally any other co-star in the world. 

He just hoped that this day would end quickly. One because he could get away from Technoblade faster, and two because he could tell Tubbo the good news.

Tommy was knocked out of his thoughts when he felt the feeling of that disgusting soot being put on his face.

He was obviously making faces at it because Riley just laughed, “Oh c’mon Toms, this is the last time we'll have to do this for filming, be happy.” Tommy just frowned and gave Riley a cold look. They couldn’t care anymore and just continued applying all of the necessary makeup.

Walking on to the set, Tommy shook out his arms a little bit to calm his nerves. 

~

Leo was not shaking. He was not . It was just the cold. This man was only semi-threatening, but it was no worry; Tommy would be out of this by the end of the week and never have to worry about this man again, not if he could help it. His plan was simple. First he would pretend to be all happy for this opportunity, then he would escape in the night, fleeing this city and traveling to another one. 

Taking a deep breath he stared the man down in the eyes.

“Let’s get this party started big man. What is your name? I mean if we are gonna be buddies I can't just keep calling you rich bastard.” Leo started, making hand gestures while he talked. 

“First of all, kid, we aren’t ‘buddies’. You’re doing this to repay for stealing from me. But I suppose I also don’t want to be referred to as a rich bastard. You can call me Murphy.” The man crossed his arms as Leo saluted him, like some sort of soldier. Murphy just rolled his eyes and turned, starting to walk away. Leo rushed to follow him, not wanting to get thrown into a jail cell yet. 

After they arrived at a rather large mansion, Leo’s jaw was on the floor. He had never even been in the vicinity of a building this nice. He suddenly shrunk back slightly, feeling self conscious about his dirty body. As soon as he started to slow down however, Murphy turned around and looked at him with raised eyebrows. 

“What, never seen something like this?”

“Nope. Never thought I would either.” 

“Well, just wait until we get inside, it’ll knock your socks off” He looked down and then chuckled, “or what's left of them anyways.” And with that Murphy kept walking. Leo squaked in offense and ran after the man. Grubbling the entire way. 

Oh boy, the old guy was right. The inside was amazing! The decorations on the wall reminded him of the cafes that would always let him stay for more than five minutes. A smile began to show on his face as he walked further in, and Leo was unaware of the softening gaze Murphy was holding towards him.

Alright, kid, your first task is to take a shower.” He nodded towards a person that seemed to be a butler, and continued, “Curtis here will show you to the bathroom and bring you a fresh change of clothes.

Leo was about to burst. This man wasn’t just going to make him do chores? He was certain that he was going to be banished to a basement and only get let out to clean. But nonetheless, he nodded and practically skipped behind the butler, so ready to get his first shower in literal years. 

~

“And that's a wrap for today.” Tommy almost collapsed in relief. That scene took literal ages to film and he was so, so ready to just go home and tell Tubbo the good news. He hesitantly smiled at Techno when they made eye contact, then rushed to the dressing rooms for Riley’s help getting all of this makeup off. 

He took a deep breath as he finally felt fresh air hit his face and knew he was free from the studio and his father until tomorrow. Tommy saw his driver and climbed into the passenger seat with a smile on his face.

“Someone looks happier than normal.” the driver smirked and Tommy rolled his eyes.”

“That's because I am. My friend- or uh personal trainer and chef- is finally allowed to stay at the house and I get to see him more often! I'm also just more excited because his parents are never home and he doesn’t really have anyone else.”

All the driver did in return was smile. The entire ride home Tommy played his favorite songs and actually enjoyed being in the vehicle. 

He arrived back at the house around five p.m, which was rather good considering there was traffic on the ride back. Tubbo wasn’t here quite yet which was understandable because this is the earliest Tommy has arrived in weeks. He went in and decided to go to his room to wait for Tubbo there. He pulled out his phone and texted the brunette 

‘hey im already home so come up to my room when you get here and we can go on the walk :p’

Tubbo in his typical dry fashion just responded with a thumbs up and Tommy smiled. Tommy couldn’t really do much else on his phone. When his father said ‘limited screen time’ he actually meant ‘only texting and calendar’ which was extremely bothersome for the boredom he was facing currently. He just hoped Tubbo would be back soon. It was a good thing they were going on the walk because that was an easy way to tell Tubbo the good news… At least Tommy wanted it to be good news. Realistically he knew that Tubbo would take it well and be happy, but a small part of him was convinced he would be annoyed and wanted to say no. 

Apparently all of this worrying was a great way to pass time because the next thing Tommy knew, his bedroom door opened to reveal a tired looking Tubbo wearing a small smile. Tommy immediately jumped up from the bed to greet his friend with a hug, which the shorter glady returned.

“I think we should go for a walk now, because if I sit down, I will fall asleep and not get up again.” Tubbo said. 

This made Tommy frown, “If you’re super tired we can wait. I really don’t mind laying down for a little bit so you can rest.” Tubbo seemed to stop for a moment considering the thought, but before he could finish Tommy continued, “It’s okay for you to rest, you aren't used to my crazy schedule and have to be exhausted with today being your most intensive classes.”

Ultimately Tubbo sighed and agreed to rest for an hour before they went on the walk and had dinner. Tommy was excited by this and hopped on the bed to be used as a pillow. Tubbo just rolled his eyes and joined him, seemingly sagging with relief when he made contact with the bed. He truly was tired as he fell asleep literally one minute into laying down. Tommy just kind of stared at the ceiling making up stories in his head because he didn't have anything better to do. 

As much as he wanted to let Tubbo keep sleeping, he knew that the brunette would be mad if he let this happen, so after an hour, reluctantly Tommy shook Tubbo awake and practically pushed him out of the bed to get him fully up. All he got in response was a ton of curses being said to him and a pillow thrown his way. 

Tubbo did actually get up though, and after a minute they were headed out the bedroom and to the front door. Tubbo grabbed a drink of water before they left. The sun was just starting to set which was beautiful. Sunset were always the pair’s favorite time of day because of the color reflecting on the clouds.

The boys took the path that they always take, it led to a small park that no one used anymore so they could go there and not be bothered. Most of this was spent in silence as they just enjoyed each other's company and the view that they had.

When arriving at the park they both took a seat on the swings, slightly swaying back and forth.

Tommy took a breath, “So I talked to my father earlier-” Tubbo’s eyes went wide, “What- are you okay? What happened, did he hurt you, why didn’t you call-” “Take a breath Tubs. he didn’t hurt me, he actually did something semi decent after I started talking.”

Tubo relaxed and motioned for the blonde to continue. 

“Okay so I realized that last night, when you were saying there was no point in you driving forty minutes twice a day and wasting so much gas money on me.” Tommy sort of trailed off and Tubbo just looked at him with a raised brow.

“Sorry- I promise I’m getting to the point. Anywho- I asked my father if you could just indefinitely stay here with me and he agreed! So it’s t-totally up to you but- uh I would really like it if you said yes.” Tommy finished with a hopeful smile actually looking Tubbo in the eyes for the first time since the start of the conversation.

Tubbo just looked shocked in response to this news, his jaw about to hit the floor. Tommy just giggled and let out a sigh of relief that he was actually able to get all of that off of his chest.

“I- I just don’t know what to say! Of course I would stay with you Tommy! You are quite literally my best friend and you are so right that it would be more convenient.” Tommy just smiled even wider in response.

Tubbo continued, “Did you think I was going to say no? Why was it so hard for you to tell me?”

Tommy just shrugged, “You know how I am haha, even if I’m two-hundred percent certain that you will say yes my mind will convince me that you won’t want to.” Tubbo just got up from his swing and hugged Tommy.

“Alright you grouch let's get back there because I am absolutely starved.”

The blonde agreed and they took the walk back to the house and Tubbo began to make some sort of soup? Tommy wasn’t exactly sure but it smelled good.

After the two boys had finished eating they both went up to Tommy’s room to get some well deserved rest. Tommy hadn’t been able to fall asleep quite as quickly as Tubbo and instead was left questioning his interactions with Technoblade. The man had seen him at one of his lo0w points, and never brought the conversation up again.

That just confused Tommy. Surely this famous actor could use this to blackmail the teen into doing something. Never in Tommy’s life had he met someone without an ulterior motive, so there's no way the Technoblade didn’t want anything from it. He figured he would get over it and ask him the next time he filmed “Boys in the Backroads.” With that settled he began thinking about his career in general. Sure he loved meeting fans and having this sort of life but it was exhausting . He just wanted someone -other than Tubbo of course- to understand what he was going through and help him. 

Wishing more than ever that he could finally have someone else to lean on, Tommy drifted off into a dreamless sleep.

Waking up in the morning was unwelcoming. Tommy groaned and just grumbled about how much he would love a day off. After putting so much energy into the other films, he was nervous his time in “Greg’s Guide to Befriending Superheroes” would be mediocre as best today.

He got out of bed and was delighted to walk into the kitchen with the smell of pancakes filling his nose.

“Good morning! Thankfully we got to sleep a little bit more today.” Tubbo said as Tommy took a seat.

Tommy just grumbled again and laid his head on the cool counter. The brunette rolled his eyes as he flipped two pancakes and pulled the bacon out of the oven. 

“Oh c’mon Tommy, if you don’t have any form of hope, nothing will get better and you will always be sad and moping. At least pretend like you’re enjoying my company until you have to leave.”

“Aye aye captain.” Tommy lifted his head with a slight shine to his eyes that wasn’t there moments ago.

Absolutely scarfing down his pancakes Tommy was once again wildly thankful that his best friend bargained with his father because he could not even imagine how he survived a few weeks ago when he didn’t have hardly any food.

Getting into his new car he said hi to who he now knew as Evin and quickly pulled the aux cord to connect his phone. He played his favorite songs to further brighten his mood and create ‘good vibes’ while they drove to the studio.

Exiting the car Tommy waved goodbye and rushed into the studio as there was a bit of traffic and he wouldn’t want to be scolded by Riley because he ‘made them rush makeup which took time and effort thank you’.

Opening the door to the costume and makeup room Tommy smiled at the other occupants, those being Phil and Sam, then sat down for the beginning of the day.

Riley came into the room and immediately did what Tommy assumed they would, “Tommy I swear to god why are you the most chronically late person I have ever met like literally get yourself together now I’m gonna be rushed to get you to look perfect.”

Normally Tommy would be terrified to be spoken to like this, but Riley had been his artist since he first started in the industry and he trusted them almost as much as he trusted Tubbo.

“Sory Ry, there was traffic and believe it or not that quite literally is not my fault.”

Phil and Sam smiled and suddenly congratulated him on no longer being on vocal rest. Tommy in return just blushed and quietly thanked them.

Getting onto the set, Tommy took a deep breath before the “Action!” was called.

~

Kai was just reading a book on the bed with him and Spencer's dog, Lily cuddling into his side. Lily was a 90 pound golden retriever, and was practically the light of Kai’s life. It was almost as if she could sense when he was sad and always knew what to do to cheer him up

A knock on their door interrupted his reading, and Kai thought this was quite odd. No one had ever knocked on their door, because their apartment was quite secluded, so this was strange. Quickly getting into a slightly protective stance. Moving slowly he took a deep breath and then opened the door. 

Kai was extremely shocked to see the man from the other day, nervous that somehow he had followed him and taken advantage of Spencer being on a mission. 

Just as Kai was about to demand an answer, the man spoke “I know this looks very bad, but the truth is I moved next door and was wondering if you knew how to work the odd technology located in the room with the counters.”

Kai just looked dumbfounded. Why was this man talking like he hardly spoke english? This was such an odd experience. He reluctantly agreed and followed the blonde guy into his apartment to see what the issue was.

The man, whom Tommy still did not know the name, pointed to… the fridge, “What does this do? I have never seen something like this before and thought it would be fitting to ask a local.”

It took everything Kai had not to burst out laughing. This guy had to be on something, right?

“Uhm, sir, that would be a refrigerator. You use it to keep things cold for longer.”

The man just seemed to look puzzled, “My my this is quite a strange city. You have technology I’ve never even heard of!”

Kai just stood awkwardly, not knowing how to finish this conversation without sounding rude. Thankfully, Spencer stormed into the room looking worried, “Kai! I thought you had gone missing, oh my goodness.” 

“I’m sorry for taking up your time, Kai. I will let you get back to your place.”

“You too mister uhm-” “Greg” “Yeah you too mister Greg!”

With that Kai and Spencer went back to their own place and Spencer fussed over the younger for a few more moments before deciding he was okay.

“Spence, it was the strangest thing. He didn’t know what a fridge was? Like what in the world.”

“Hmm,” Spencer looked skeptical, “That is really strange Kai, don’t go near him for now, okay? I want to make sure he’s still safe.”

Kai agreed with him. And they both spent the night slightly spooked, with lily laying protectively by the door.

~

Tommy was honestly quite happy with that take. It took a few tries but he liked the way it turned out in the end. After using an excessive amount of makeup wipes that Riley was complaining would ruin his skin, Tommy was ready to go home.

However, Phil and Sam had another idea.

“How would you like to go with us to lunch, my treat. You did such a good job today and we feel you deserve something to celebrate.” The smile on Tommy’s face must have been blinding. He had never had this sort of validation from anyone other than Tubbo. He had to admit it felt absolutely amazing. He agreed and before he really knew what he was doing he had texted Tubbo and Evin saying that he would be leaving later than usual as he was invited to lunch.

Tubbo seemed ecstatic that he was actually going out with someone other than the brunette Tommy was offended by that but overall the happiness outweighed the snarkiness he wanted to bite back with.

The three actors ended up going to a local sandwich shop where Tommy got something small, only at the nagging of the other two males that he had to at least try something.

Now they were sitting at a booth in the corner, somewhere with less of a chance that someone would see them. Tommy was hesitant to speak at first but after a little bit he started opening up a little more and telling the guys about the only interesting part of his life, Tubbo. It felt nice to be able to share stuff and the other two actually listening. They didn’t interrupt his stories and even asked questions! By the time they had all finished their food he was elated. 

Hne also listened intently to the others’ stories, Phil’s about his wife, and Sam’s about his actual dog, Fran. 

“I have to say Tommy, you’re really cool to hang out with, I hope we can do this again sometime!” Sam said as he made his way out, the first one to leave. 

As soon as Sam left, Tommy could sense the vibe was sort of shifted as Phil sighed.

“I’m actually really happy you agreed to this. I’ve been meaning to ask you some things. That first day that I let you use my phone, you never deleted the messages and I swear I didn’t mean to pry but you also left the app open so when I turned on my phone, accidentally I swear, and I happened to see the messages.”

Tommy was speechless. He was such a fucking idiot. 

“I know this might seem scary but I just wanted to know if you were okay. Did someone intentionally break your old phone? I understand that this might be overstepping but you are making me go all dad mode over this situation. Please, is there anything I can do to help you?”

“I- I have to go.” And before Phil could say something else Tommy got up and bolted out of the restaurant. He tried to hold back tears as he pulled out his phone and texted Evin his location and that he needed to be quick.” He then sunk onto the curb and waited.

After Tommy arrived home, Tubbo immediately pulled him into a hug, tight, comforting, and no questions. Tommy broke apart in his friend's arms, absolutely terrified of his next interaction with Phil.

Chapter Text

Tommy was completely and utterly fucked. He hadn’t been able to stop thinking about the interaction with Phil, and it was ripping him to shreds. And now that he had walked out after being freaked out by the conversation? It just made everything so so so much worse.

It had taken a while for Tubbo to calm him down after his initial freakout. Being caring as he was, the brunette didn’t push Tommy for answers, simply just led them to the taller’s bedroom and whispered sweet nothings into his ears until Tommy could breathe without stuttering.

Waking up in the morning, Tommy was extremely thankful that he wasn’t filming with Phil today. In fact, for the first time in almost forever, he had a day off. Not of his own accord, but because the bigger costars on his shows were all at a premiere to a new movie, but Tommy was too young to attend as it was rated R.

He decided that once Tubbo got home from his jobs that the two would just have a relaxing afternoon. But for now, he was alone–alone as he could be with all of the staff–and he had no idea what to do.

Most of his AM hours consisted of…nothing. Absolutely nothing, and Tommy was elated! He hadn’t been able to just sit in his bed and do as he pleased since–well he didn’t actually know the last time he got to do this. But who cares! He was so happy and nothing and no one could stop him.

A while later Tubbo waltzed into his room after he had returned from the gym, a little surprised to see Tommy sitting in the middle of the room doing nothing.

“What are you doing here so early?” Tubbo tilted his head in question.

“You know that one big movie that I did a while ago? Well the premiere is today and since its rated R my father isn’t letting me attend- I don’t really know how that makes any sense when I was the lead role but oh well,” Tommy took a breath before continuing, “everyone and their mother is at the premiere and as a result I have the day off! Isn’t this absolutely amazing?!” Tommy sighed as he flopped onto his back to stare at the ceiling, smiling a real, genuine smile.

Tubbo just laughed at his friend before deciding to join him on the floor. They both basked at the ceiling enjoying the view of the empty, boring, dull- “I have an idea for what we can do.”

Tubbo shot up abruptly with a glimmer in his eyes, “How about we go out and get stuff to fix this monstrosity that you call a bedroom.”

“Monstrosity is a little intense. I mean everything is practically sparking–isn’t that a good thing?”

“Absolutely not! We're going to fix this and you are going to be a million times happier.” Tubbo just started walking out of the room and Tommy had no choice but to follow his best friend.
As he drove in the car Tommy checked his bank account. His father may hate him but he’d rather let the boy have some of his own money rather than have to interact with him to give him some before any event. He had saved almost all of it, never really having the time or need to spend it. This meant that the two boys had quite a lot that they could work with.

“All right here's our first stop of the day!” Tubbo happily exited the car, waiting for Tommy, and then they both entered the holy grail, Target.

Walking in Tubbo immediately went to the bedding aisle and pointed out some of the most atrocious options that Tommy wondered why anyone would want to put that in their house. More seriously Tubbo pointed out a red and white comforter that Tommy adored. It was the perfect pop of color to his white room and suited him quite well.

The comforter went into the cart. Along with some decorative pillows and more stuffed animals because according to Tubbo he had nowhere near enough. Tommy was having a lot of fun with this. It had been so long since him and Tubbo had actually gone out and done something together that wasn’t just mandatory workouts.

Walking into a different aisle, Tommy heard his name from behind him. He turned to see a mother and a little boy who kind of looked like Tommy as a kid. The mom leaned down and whispered something to the boy and then gently nudged him forward.

The kind shyly took a few steps forward then said practically a whisper, “Ohmygosh! You’re Tom Simons!”

Tommy just laughed, “Yes I am, what might your name be?”

The little boy just absolutely lit up. He stared at the older boy with wonder in his eyes, ,”My name is Walker, and one day I want to be just like you!”

Tommy's smile dimmed a little bit, but he knew that his situation was unique and not at all like many of the people he had worked with.

“I wish you the best of luck, Walker, it was so wonderful to meet someone as awesome as you.”

If the boy could have exploded, he would have. The mother then asked for a photo and of course Tommy said yes. He waved goodbye after giving the kid a hug, him and Tubbo continuing their exploration.

Tubbo broke the silence that had been over them after they left the duo, “You doing okay over there golden boy?”

Tommy just smiled at his friend, “Yeah, I just never thought anyone could look up to me, I always thought of myself as more of a background kind of guy.”

Rolling his eyes Tubbo responded, “Oh come on, you are one of the most famous actors in the world, anyone would have been lucky enough to interact with you like that. That kids day was made and I promise you he will gloat about that at every chance he gets.”

Tommy just nodded.