Dream Eater [Klaus X Reader]

Dream Eater [Klaus x Reader]

Requested by Anonymous 💤

This marked the third day you walked into the office and saw Klaus with those bags under his eyes. The glint off his glasses should have obscured your vision, but no. You've given enough people nightmares to know the look on Klaus's face, the look behind his eyes.

Something was plaguing him and you intended to find out what.

Klaus settled into his chair behind his desk, thankful for the quiet of Zapp not being in today. It felt like his nightmares were getting worse for no reason. He could ask you for help with that. Force him to have pleasant dreams, maybe ask for a bottle of the lightest pink mist you could produce. But that wasn't exactly your job. More a side effect of your ability to invade a person's mind.

And whether Klaus liked it or not, asking anything of you would probably contain a slip-up confession from him. As much as he liked you, he hated the idea of asking your assistance moments before or after complimenting your... everything.

A soft pap! cut through Klaus's mental buzzing as he looked up to see you on the other side of the desk. You weren't... no, you couldn't actively read people's minds, right?

"[Name], is there something you need?" Klaus tilted his head, "Or is something wrong?"

The realization hit Klaus like a truck. You, like himself and Steven, were highly perceptive of your surroundings. Explaining why you acted so nonchalant and laid back, if a tad agitated at times.

You shook your head, a bit over the top but it had to be a clear message. "I SEE YOU PROBLEM. HELP YOU."

Klaus let out a very soft noise, almost like a whining joint of a wheel. This was what he was hoping to avoid. Not that he didn't appreciate your help, he just didn't want to impose or ask too much. He knew how much you hated nightmares. That the only way for you to fully get rid of them was to eat them yourself. And how you always mentioned how bitter they tasted.

He feared his own nightmares would be crossing a line. He knew the dark, twisted corridors of his mind would be torture to you. And yet...

"NO CHOICE. HELP YOU."

'[N-name]." He didn't know how to placate you, "I'll be fine. I'm certain this nightmare will pass."

Klaus covered his mouth swiftly, a look of panic across his face. He had not meant to tell you it was a nightmare that had him looking like this. If only he could rewind the clock, or perhaps erase that fragment of your memory... Something, anything.

But alas, you had circled the desk in four large strides, tugging at his arm to follow you. Klaus felt he had no options, you could be just as stubborn as himself when it came to this kind of thing.

Laying back across the couch in your 'office' away from everyone else, actually up on the top floor of the building to avoid anyone accidentally walking in while you attempted to focus, Klaus dreaded going to sleep. Even if he was in a safe environment around someone he very much enjoyed the company of. And being completely alone with said company.

It was pointless to try and stop you from doing this, the deep purple mist forming between your hands with every breath. Klaus was fearful of what you might see, what you'd think about his nightmares. How much it might alter your perception of himself. All of it worried him to no end, right up until the moment he passed out.

It was deeply concerning when the mist you used to knock Klaus out had come back nearly pitch black. While you were used to some kinds of nightmares darkening the mist you created a little bit, to see something this black in color was just horrifying.

This would absolutely be the bitterest nightmare you've ever had to consume. But, it would be to help a friend. That made it all worth the struggle in the end.

Klaus woke up, still extremely dazed from the sudden sleeping. Even with the nightmare having been removed, Klaus could still feel that it was around. Shortly after the same sequence of events started up, his mind had gone blank. A familiar experience with previous dreams you'd removed for him. But one that still made him worry about your health.

While it took a second to locate you, Klaus was beside himself with guilt. You were hunched over, thinking you were out of sight of the couch. A cloud dark as tar half devoured sitting in your hands. Tears just starting to roll down your face with how little you wanted to finish eating this particular nightmare.

Klaus wanted to stop you. He wished he could tell you not to finish this, that he would be okay with this being a thing. But you were already trying to stuff the misty cloud down your throat. A desperate attempt to quicken the process and not taste the bitter, borderline rancid dream as brief images flashed across your mind's eye.

If you had known Klaus dealt with all this...

But you managed... Scarfing it all down had been no easy feat, but you managed. Klaus however was not happy. He cared far too much about you to just let this go.

"[Name]." He knelt beside you before you could even look up and realize he was awake, "Please, I insist on making this up to you. Something, anything at all. I... I want to repay you. I know how badly that affected you, I can see it all over your face."

Klaus brushed a large thumb under your eye, wiping away the traces of how he hurt you. The pain in his eyes told you everything you needed to know about the situation. Because of course Klaus would feel terrible for having a nightmare at all, if it meant inconveniencing someone he cared about. Though that seemed to be a very long list.

You tried shaking your head, tried telling Klaus it would be okay.

"[Name], I insist." Klaus leaned forward a little to emphasize his point, "Even if there isn't anything you want, or need from me. I am in your debt. I couldn't live with myself after forcing you through my worst nightmare to date."

Just as you were about to sign "NO", Klaus caught both your hands, effectively silencing you completely.

"I refuse to accept any other outcome [Name]. I will repay you for this, eventually." Klaus looked away a little then focused back on your eyes, "Though for now, please allow me to treat you to lunch. Something to assist in ridding you of the bitter taste."

Day 31-1 [Klaus/ Steven/ Leo]

Prompt: "You know what you have to do..."

Klaus

This wasn't a choice Klaus felt he should have to make. While he was no stranger to sacrifice, losing you was just one line too far. Nothing leading up to this point had been a choice. How could it be fair for you to be the one to give up everything for others' mistakes... for his mistakes.

You had been marked with a timer. If Klaus failed to act by the deadline, then you'd be corrupted with a demonic power that would take over your entire being. Unleashing a threat, the likes of which hadn't walked the Earth in centuries. Something that Libra simply wasn't equipped to deal with, nor could it be reversed.

He outright hated this with every fiber of his being.

"Klaus." Your voice, so quiet and frightened, it hurt the big man, "You know what you have to do. It's okay. I don't want to..."

"Liebling." THe tears in Klaus's voice broke your heart, "I'm so sorry."

"I love you Klaus."

The loud roar Klaus let out simply didn't register in his own ears. Everything seemed to crash around him as his own attack tore through your body, starting at that cursed timer.

Klaus hit his knees, sobbing at how things had to end.

"Auch liebe dich, mein Shatzi."

.

Steven

Oh no. This was bad. This was so very, very bad. How could Steven forget something like this? Had he really been that busy? That he would forget to plan anything for your anniversary?

What was he to do now?

While Klaus felt sympathy for Steven, most of the rest of the office did not. There was very little any of them could do to help, especially once Steven went into 'catastrophize' mode. Though one well-placed smack from K.K. made him stop long enough to realize he was no longer alone.

"Oh come off it Scarface." The blonde woman teased, "You know what you have to do. Don't sit there and pretend like you, of all people, can't come up with something before you ge home."

Steven groaned. Of course, K.K. would be right, Steven had at least half a dozen options off the top of his head. It would be all too easy for him to smooth everything over. But he was still stuck wondering how he managed to forget. You were the one person he would actually set work aside for after all.

It would all be fixed in a couple phone calls and a quick trip to the store to pick up a little wine on his way home.

.

Leo

Leo looked up at Sonic. The little imp had stolen his camera again, waving it over his head like some kind of prize. It wasn't enough for Sonic to just steal Leo's camera over and over again, no! The little white-furred demon had to keep taking lots of small, shiny things for his little collection. The camera was just the main reason either of you found his little stash. This was so frustrating. Why couldn't Sonic behave himself? Did he think he was playing hide and seek like this?

"Here ya go, Leo." You placed a slingshot in his hands, "This should work."

A tiny frown of disappointment formed on Leo's face as he looked at the small contraption. A simple stunning net contained in a tiny capsule, something made specifically to catch Sonic Speed Monkeys with.

"You know what you have to do." You urged, "It won't hurt your camera, trust me."

"But what if he falls?" Leo asked, "And how are we gonna catch both?"

"There's a built-in retractor thread." You pointed out how the seat of the slingshot had a fishing line tied to it, "Just don't miss."

"Loving the vote of confidence." Leo grumbled under his breath, "Alright then."

Loopy [Klaus x Reader]

Requested by Anonymous 😅

It hadn't been too late when Steven called you to inform you that Klaus was in the hospital. But it felt like days had passed before you were allowed in to see him. Mostly due to how he rarely ever visited the hospital for himself. Gilbert was a capable medical advisor, so he was legally allowed to administer blood transfusions.

Why those were needed for Klaus's job was beyond you. And seeing him bound in so many hard casts was just hard to look at. One arm slung up at an angle, and the same side leg propped up in a similar sling. It took all your willpower to not turn to Steven.

Though the dark-haired man could feel the heat of your worry from across the room. He knew that you were moments from snapping and demanding answers, and he was likely going to be the primary target. Given that he was the only person around at the time of Klaus's injury. Thank goodness it was so close to the hospital to begin with.

"He should be waking up any minute now." The small form of Dr. Estevez wheeled a large cart in, full of small instruments you could only guess at half their functions, "After a check-up, I'll determine if he needs more morphine to dull the pain or if he needs to kept awake to avoid slipping into a comma."

A tense silence followed.

"Not that it would be extremely serious." She look right at you, the aura you gave off was best described as hellfire, "Little more than the standard procedure for minor concussions. Mr. Reinherz here is far more durable than most humans, so there's little reason to worry about any serious health ramifications."

You tried to relax, letting out a deep sigh as you sat on the side bench. Trying your hardest not to get in the way or let your nerves show too much. Of course you were worried, you had never seen Klaus this badly injured. And even with the "encouraging" words from the little doctor, you felt like everyone was being just a tad too nonchalant about Klaus being in casts.

"Listen [Name]," Steven sat next to you, a comforting arm around your shoulders, "Klaus has made it through worse than this before and been just fine. I know how harrowing it is to see him in this state, but just know he'd do what he did in a heartbeat, if he had to."

"But why?" Your voice was just on the edge of cracking, "Why do things have to be this way?"

Steven let out a soft, yet deep groan, "Because, Klaus would do anything to protect you. And while our job is protecting the world, Klaus always tends to think about the people closest to him. Those most important in his life. According to him, thinking that way makes it easier to do the right thing."

You turned away from Steven. It made sense, you heard Klaus talk this way yourself. But you didn't like this truth, you wanted Klaus to be safe. Not end up in the hospital or wrapped in bandages all the time.

"Even if the right thing to do is give his life." Steven continued, "He would do that without hesitation. As long as he knew you would be safe, and happy."

"And if I'm not happy?" You lowered your voice to avoid crying, "If that's the one thing that would make me suffer above all else?"

"Trust me. Klaus thinks about that too. And he tries to take all the precautions he possibly can to avoid it." Steven let his arm fall away from you, knowing the gesture wasn't helping, "But if push came to shove and he had no other choice... Then he wouldn't hesitate."

"I know. And that's the worst part about it." You took a few deep breaths to steady yourself, "Because then something like this happens and it throws that fact right in my face. I just... I'd like a bit of a breather between reminders of what city we live in."

"Yeah, me too."

Steven looked over at the slightly stirring form of Klaus. This was just something that Klaus would have to deal with on his own. Because Steven had plans to deliver the news of Klaus's health and leave you with him for the night. There would be plenty of time for everyone else to check in on him later, but tonight should be just you two.

Once the room was clear, Klaus finally looked right at you. As usual, you didn't have the faintest idea what he was thinking. You just knew that he should stay awake for a little while longer so Dr. Estevez could complete another check-up in three or four hours.

"You're beautiful."

You stopped, blinking. Klaus's voice wasn't exactly steady right now, nor did it seem like he was fully awake. Dr. Estevez did mention something about using a little more morphine than usual due to just how large Klaus was compared to the average human, even for his height. So maybe this was a side effect? Him seeming to be drunk...

"There isn't a medium, nor artist that could truly capture the radiance of your beauty." His smile was lopsided, almost like a mischievous snicker... but this was genuine, "Whom do I have the pleasure of being in the presence of? An angel?"

Oh M goodness. Was this Klaus attempting to flirt? You couldn't help the bright red color jumping across your face. Holy...

"I'm [Name]." You settled into a chair next to his bed, "Your lover..."

"Oh my." Klaus flushed a little, "Truly I am a lucky man, someone as lovely as you by my side."

Oh good grief... Was he going to be like this all night? You weren't sure you could handle this. It was bad enough when he was aware of his compliments.

A couple deep breaths to steady your nerves, "You are being awfully bold for someone so reserved. Flirting with me when you think I'm a stranger..."

Klaus tilted his head a little, "You? A stranger? Of course not Liebling. I could never forget being with someone so amazing. You never fail to bring a smile to my face, though I rarely show it. Even the mere thought of coming home to you every evening is more than enough to lift my spirits."

Hold up, did he just? You were... He... Oh dear lord, you were just going to have to sit through these weird moments of clarity and complete ignorance weren't you. How much morphine did Dr. Estevez pump into this giant Care Bear?

"Frankly, love, I don't know where I'd be..." He slurred something, you couldn't even make out the syllables, "Though you are the loveliest person I've ever met. It truly is an honor to chat with you."

You had no words. You could only sit there and let him mumble himself in circles. You didn't know what to say, he wouldn't remember any of this anyways. This would be a long night...

Right when you thought things were winding down, as you had gotten up to get Klaus a glass of water...

"Du hast eine tollen arsch."

It was all you could do to not drop or crush the water cup. You weren't entirely sure what Klaus just said, but the time you'd spent with him gave you just enough context clues to know he was being far bolder in flirting with you. Maybe it was just because he was speaking German though. For all you knew he could have just said 'I want Bundt cake'.

Though when you stepped closer, he got bolder. Reaching around with his one good arm and firmly grasping your rear.

"So sehr angenehm zu berühren."

Your whole face was burning up. This was not like Klaus at all, not one bit. How long was this supposed to last again? Was it too late to tag Steven in on this? Cause you had a strong feeling that Klaus wouldn't be flirting with his second-in-command the way he was clearly flirting with you.

Or maybe he was loopy enough to flirt with anyone. Not like you would know.

But the way Klaus was behaving right now, his hand not leaving its spot against your bum, you were starting to feel a little light-headed. It was hardly appropriate for him to be doing this, Klaus would never. Especially not in public!

And yet here he was, all drugged up, murmuring to you in German, and coping a feel. It was all a little too much. And you were embarrassed on both your behalves.

If Klaus didn't remember doing this, then you would never tell him. The shock of acting like this in public would kill the poor man, even if he was out of it.

And it was all you could do to break away from him. Squeaking about needing to sit down so you could gather your thoughts. This would be a long night indeed.

Feri [Klaus x Reader]

Requested by Anonymous 🐵

"They're gonna get away Chief!" Zapp yelled, "What the f&^k!"

"I got 'im!"

Klaus turned, watching you wiggle your hips before leaping high in the air. The distance was cleared shortly as you literally swatted the target back down to the ground. On occasions like these, your wild upbringing was greatly appreciated.

Having lived in the jungle on your own and managing to survive for years, building the skill and know-how to become a very powerful fang hunter without the use of blood weapons. It was quite admirable and quite dangerous.

On the one hand, you could easily perform feats of great agility and speed by merely using your arms and legs to stretch further than most people. On the other, it meant you were usually in a far more dangerous position than most everyone else. Not to mention the occasional strange habit.

Though for now, Klaus would simply be content in the knowledge that you knew what you were doing and offer to help bandage any wounds that you may have gotten.

.

"[Name]? Liebling?" Klaus wandered the house in search of you, "Are you here?"

He eventually found you sitting with your knees almost level with your shoulders next to the Aloe Vera you had planted. Well, Klaus had planted it for you specifically so you would stop nibbling on his other plants. There was something... unhinged about the way you were chewing on the small plant.

Of course, Klaus knew the reason behind it. He didn't agree with it, given how well you had adjusted to civilized society. But he understood the basics of why you still walked around on all fours and chewed random plants.

"Liebling, is everything okay?" He lowered himself slowly, "Is there anything you want to talk about?"

You had to ease off chewing to answer, "Nothing in particular. Just thinking about a couple things I might need to do later on."

"For example?"

"I was going to work out a little later but I should probably do a little more stretching. That and the kind of work out. I haven't quite decided on that yet either."

"Ah, I see." Klaus couldn't see how you were comfortable in this position however, he had to sit to remain level-ish with you, "Perhaps we could work out together? Or head to the office and run the obstacle course a few times?"

You smiled warmly, it melted Klaus's heart. He couldn't resist leaning a little closer.

"Yeah, I'd like that." You leaned against his shoulder a bit, "Though I should probably preen the Aloe Vera first. If it tries regenerating over the chewed spots like this then it'll be too hard to properly cut though later."

Klaus couldn't help but agree. And silently think that you could attempt to stop chewing on plants like this in general. But he would hold his tongue, it wasn't his place to tell others how they should and shouldn't act after all.

Interrogation [Everyone x Reader]

Requested by Anonymous 💬

The effort of knocking the target out left you feeling a little more bitter than normal. Though making sure everything was taken care of afterward would be a bit of a problem. You just weren't sure if it would be needed... yet.

"Let's just grab him and go." You didn't bother offering to pick up the man, "If I stand next to this gluten-free salad any longer, then I'm gonna start losing brain cells."

Klaus didn't hesitate, carefully lifting the enemy. Though Steven and K.K. were arguing about where to take them. As much as Klaus wanted to stop the fighting, it was you who had a plan.

"I know a place." You spoke up from where Leo and Zapp were arguing again, "It isn't that far either."

Chain landed on Zapp's shoulder, forcing him to fall over, "Good to know. But where specifically?"

"Couple blocks." You shrugged, "Not too far."

You had never shown anyone this apartment. It was for emergencies only. At least the cover stories were airtight. Not a single person in the nearby area could get hurt by this. And not a single one would question the number of people entering the apartment. Even if one looked like they just came from fight club.

~~~~~

Everyone looked around the simple apartment. Scented candles, soft tones, and not a single hidden compartment for weapons. No one expected this to be your apartment. Not even your lover knew about this place. And they were deeply concerned about just... why you had this and never told them at all.

Though, you didn't have the time to explain before your information target woke up. His wrists tied down to a chair, not allowing any kind of movement despite how much he tried.

"Oi!" He yelled, "Do whatever you want to me! You sprung a wild trap! My boss will find me and then this place will--!"

You couldn't take all these cliche statements. Slapping the man against the protests of Klaus and forcing him, almost forcing them all, to face what was going on.

"I rented this place on a shell corporation. My mail goes to another apartment building." You sneered down, "My neighbors think my name is Karume. My coworkers think my name is [Full Name]."

"[Name]," Klaus didn't know how to feel about this. Yes, everyone had their secrets, but a whole double life? "What of your neighbors? They could become accidental victims of this..."

No one knew what to say or think, not really. But the look on your face seemed to suggest you knew what you were doing. And it was true, here you typically acted like a meek, shy person. And in a building of tough strongmen, that meant you were perfectly safe.

Though you knew if you didn't explain something to Klaus and Steven at the very least then things could come crashing down. And so Steven and K.K. took over interrogation while Zapp dug around for some kind of booze.

Joke was on him though, you didn't even keep wine coolers here.

Once out of earshot, you turned to Klaus. He was clearly worried about you. Learning you had this place at all was quite a shock. It wasn't quite a betrayal, but it was something he didn't like to think about.

"[Name], What is this place for?" His hands were wringing themselves, "Your neighbors could be in serious trouble with all of us being here. Not to mention the tracking chip Leonardo confirmed to be in his neck."

"Easy big guy." You patted his arm, "This place is so far removed from Libra that it might as well be wrapped in a conspiracy, deep fried in a cover-up, and smothered in one of those tacky barbeque sauces that no one likes."

Klaus blinked a few times, visibly confused.

"It means that, at most, they'll find us." You sighed, "But they'll think we took pity on him and just wanted to help a poor man off his feet."

Klaus turned, that made sense on some level. He wanted to believe you, but something in the back of his mind just wouldn't rest. Though, the situation currently playing out was mostly to blame as Klaus could see the benefits of having something like this as a back up plan.

It wasn't long before Zapp caught ahold of your shoulders, "Alright Steven 2.0, I'll bite. Where do you keep the good drinks?"

"I don't keep alcohol here."

"Hanh!?" Zapp pushed off you, "What do you mean you don't keep alcohol here? What kind of hideout doesn't have booze?"

"The kind meant to keep a low profile, sparky."

Zapp rolled his eyes, "So why on Earth even have it?"

"Just in case." You sighed, "Ya know, when sh^t hits the fan."

"Bah!"

Zapp walked off as quickly as he showed up, waving you off like your place should meet his requirements. Not that anyone else was making any fuss over what was and wasn't around.

Though a loud smack from the living room caught your attention. Just barely having missed running right into Klaus on your way back into the room, you saw K.K. being physically held back by Steven and Zed, one arm raised over her head and both feet kicking wildly.

"K.K.! Relax! He's out cold." Steven gasped, "Why is this harder than the fight with the guy!"

You and Chain couldn't help but snicker at them. Though it would be far more difficult to get information when he wasn't awake. Unless Leo did a little snooping with his eyes.

Not that he could really pinpoint the information needed. Meaning the best you could do was prep a pot of coffee and hope for him to re-awaken soon. Though Steven cornered you quickly.

"[Name], I'm no stranger to keeping secrets." He leaned against the counter, "But none of us even knew you had a place like this."

"It's all legal if that's what you're asking." You folded your arms, "I wouldn't bring any of you here if it wasn't."

Steven nodded, setting his cup on the counter, "Why would you bother keeping this place like this? Other than situations like this."

"Sometimes I just need a place to exist, ya know? No expectations or anything." You sighed, "Sometimes that's here, sometimes that's my place. Just depends on me."

Steven nodded, "Yeah. I understand what you mean. Just a little worried about why."

You nodded. After having spent most of the day placating everyone, assuring them this was perfectly okay. Sadly Leo and Zed weren't convinced as easily as Klaus or Steven. But at least Chain wasn't trying to ask a million questions.

K.K. however, was not going to let that slide.

"Explain this now!" She had you trapped in a corner, "And none of that running around you normally do [Name]."

You sighed, "It's just a little backup plan for stuff like this. Nothing more."

It felt like K.K. was trying to stare into your soul. One eye against two as she kept backing you into the corner.

"I swear," You couldn't do more than raise your hands in surrender, "It's just a hideaway home. Only meant to wait in the wings for things like this."

The soft moan from K.K. as she tried getting more out of you was tense. You weren't sure why she was directing this toward you and not the target, because this kind of interrogation would probably make the guy crack in three seconds.

Experimental [Klaus x Reader]

Requested by Anonymous 🐚

Side note: five ~ means a long time skip, . means short time skip/ significant POV change.

A dark room, a cold tank, and a sinking feeling that nothing would ever be okay after this. You floated, unsure what your purpose even was anymore as the door opened wide. Blinding light filtered through the water, this was your life now wasn't it? Just a zoo animal.

You ignored the people approaching your tank, lamenting all the dreams you had before breaking down on the side of the road. A flat tire had been the death of you, in hindsight. This was just a different version of death, one where you simply existed.

Why couldn't you wake up from this nightmare?

"As you can see, she's perfectly healthy. And we can start negotiations at five hundred thousand."

"Pfft! Too high a price!"

"I won't go any lower. Not with the extensive amount of research this specimen took."

"You won't get that for something this... this..."

"You've gone a made a fool of yourself Glen, this creature won't sell at all."

The people walked back out of the room, leaving you in complete darkness. What did you really expect? No one treated you with any kind of real respect anymore. You were just a project, an experiment...

Just a creature, a product for them to fuss over.

It was maddening to spend your days like this. You just wanted to be free. Was that really too much to ask? You didn't need to have someone around, just as long as you could get out of this tank... see anything other than these four walls and the suffocating darkness.

A little color would be nice.

~~~~~

"Wirbelsturm!"

That voice... It wasn't one you'd ever heard before. Having woken you from deep slumber and piqued your curiosity rather than your fears, despite being a rather rough and commanding tone. Though you hesitated in making any noise, something about this was just... off. As if staying quiet would be better for your situation.

You weren't kept waiting long. A large red-haired man practically burst through the door. His gaze felt laser-focused, it made you feel oddly naked. As if he could see under the scales as if he could see that part of you was still human under all the healed scars.

It wasn't helping that you were technically naked in the tank.

.

Klaus knew this mission was on borrowed time, but seeing a female form floating in a tank... he had to stop and fully accept what he was seeing.

A young woman with patches of scales, only her face and general body shape looked human. Her fingers ended in large, curved talons instead of nails, as did her toes. Her neck had large frills, not too dissimilar to Zed's gills, and a massive tail stretched from her back. It needed to curl along the bottom of the circular tank, though different types of frills extended from the tip of her tail. She pressed a single hand, palm against the glass.

The look on her face pained Klaus and he could have sworn he saw her mouth "Help."

It wasn't long before the building was deemed clear, though Klaus hadn't moved from beside the tank. Having spent so much time trying to figure out how to get this poor girl out of her glass prison before being sought out by Steven specifically.

"Klaus! We have to..."

Steven stopped, staring at the same horribly mesmerizing sight. Though his thoughts immediately wanted to search for whatever notes might tell them more about the person in the tank.

"Everyone listen up!" Steven yelled out the door, "Search the premises again! Look for anything even remotely mentioning either a genetic experiment or a mermaid creature."

~~~~~

It had been a learning curve, figuring out how to walk again. Regaining your balance and figuring out how long you could go without being in water. Though being told what you could and couldn't do was a little weird.

Most of these abilities helped with walking around on land sure... but you still had to get used to the idea of covering gills. And the way you blinked was so bizarre too. It was like there was a thin, almost sticky film over your eyeballs.

Learning who these people were had been somewhat easy. For the most part, they were rather friendly. Yet that still felt like a caveat, as if it were simple pity. You still felt as if you weren't... you anymore. As if what you've been through had stripped you of being a person in some way.

Except for one person. Klaus.

It didn't make much sense, since there was someone almost exactly like you in the office. A similarly aquatic humanoid named Zed. But it was Klaus, the tall redhead that saw you. That still treated you as human, despite the obvious water dragon parts.

You were laying in a bathtub, legs and tail sticking waaaay out so you could relax. Keeping your gills sealed was a difficult muscle to keep stretched like that for long periods of time.

A sudden knock at the door and you tucked your tail in.

"Its open!"

Klaus peered in, ever polite about 'invading' your space before entering the room.

"[Name], I was wondering if you would be interested in trying this equipment out?" He held up a well-fitted piece similar to Zed's equipment, "It would likely help with your gills. If you'd like to that is."

Your voice sounded a little distorted from under the water, "I don't mind trying it. How am I supposed to put it on though?"

Klaus helped you wiggle the stretch-fit part over your gills, asking that it wasn't too tight. It would be another adjustment sure, but you wouldn't have to stay in the bathtub too long either. Or another tank.

"Is that too tight?" Klaus stepped back, drying his hands on a small towel, "There were three or four different sizes as part of the kit. Zed uses the largest fit. Though I highly doubt you two would need the same size."

You took a few deep breaths, extending your gills as much as you could. It wouldn't be cozy per se, not for a while at least. But...

"This one will work." You smiled up at the wavy form, "I just have to wait for a sound?"

"Yes. I believe Zed said it was two short beeps." Klaus shifted a little, "Though it could also sound like a long whoosh. According to the manual in the box that is."

You sat up carefully, keeping the device submerged so it could continue filling, "Klaus, could I ask you something?"

"Of course [Name], anything."

"Why do you keep helping me so much?" You looked down at your hands, "I mean, it doesn't just feel like you're doing any of this because it's the right thing to do. Or else I'm delusional and have no concept of how someone really acts when they truly just want to help."

Klaus frowned a little, "I truly have no other motive besides your well-being [Name]. I would never attempt to force myself upon you. Nor would I try to leverage how I'm helping you to coerce you into Libra." Klaus set the towel down, "I certainly wouldn't allow anyone else to try to make you feel obligated to do anything you aren't comfortable with either."

You hated this feeling. Having to second guess and ask weird questions like this. It left a guilty feeling, sinking your heart because you just couldn't trust anyone blindly. Even someone as sweet and genuine as Klaus.

"Incidentally [Name]," Klaus very gingerly touched your tail, "I don't believe you should worry about your mental state. After the tragic events you were forced to live through, the reality of your current situation... It is only natural to wonder if the people around you have ulterior motives."

It was all you could do to fight back bitter tears, "I... I appreciate it Klaus. Really. Everything you've done to help me get back on my feet. Literally."

Klaus almost smiled as you chuckled weakly. His hand was very warm against your scales, having come to rest above the frills on your tail. You couldn't explain why you felt so at ease like this, especially when anyone else would have made you jump or flick them from the same kind of innocent contact. Maybe it was just that Klaus had moved slowly?

"I just don't know what to do." You finally managed to look him in the eye again, "It's not like I really have anywhere I can go after this. And I'll have to stay in Hellsalem's Lot regardless. I just... I wonder if any of this is really-"

"Please don't finish that thought." Klaus gently squeezed your tail, "Of course, it was worth freeing you from that tank. All this struggle to assist you and protect you, it is all completely worth it. No matter how much strife, your life is absolutely worth it. Once we know for sure that the organization which funded your... your..."

Klaus had to stop to think. He didn't know what to call this situation. It wasn't a condition, that would imply there was something wrong with you, but Klaus was certainly not going to say that. He didn't believe it himself.

"Once we find all the people responsible for your fate," Klaus corrected, "We'll be able to help you re-enter society. At least, as much as we possibly can."

He jumped up, letting go of your tail as soon as the breathing pods made a strange noise, offering to help you out of the tub as quickly as he could. If it had been anyone else, you probably would have been stubborn about it. But Klaus... being close like this was so nice. Even as your heart thumped harder.

~~~~~

Was this inappropriate? It felt inappropriate. Should he feel this way toward you? Was it okay to say something? Would saying something make things worse? Would you think he was trying to pull the thing he said he wouldn't do? Would you feel the same way?

Should he explain that he fell for you this hard?

Steven leaned against his desk, sipping coffee and watching Klaus have a mini-crisis. The dark-haired man knew exactly what was on his friend's mind. Steven couldn't even blame him, the reasons you were appealing to the gentle giant was clear as day.

The problem was talking sense into Klaus and convincing him that saying something about his feelings was the right thing to do.

.

"Leo, honestly," You sighed at the poor kid, "The best thing to do is be direct."

"Okay, but I suck at telling people how I feel."

Klaus immediately looked up at the door. Steven rolled his eyes, though whatever the conversation was... he was sure it was something Klaus needed to hear in the first place. And right from the person he should listen to anyways.

"Then write it down in a letter." You pushed open the door, "Type it up on your phone's note pad. Make sure you have down exactly what you want to say before you go to say something so if you can't say it you at least have something to show them."

Leo grunted, "And if they think I'm weird for texting them how I feel while I stand right there?"

"If they've known you long enough they'll understand that you're flustered mess at the best of times."

"HEY!"

"I don't brew the tea, I just serve it."

Klaus ducked behind his computer in his attempt to hide the sudden snicker and blush as you looked up. Steven was dangerously close to laughing, this was better than he could have hoped. You giving relationship advice like that in front of Klaus was just perfect. And made it all the easier for Steven and K.K. when they cornered the poor man in the break room.

"You heard [Name], Klaus." Steven blocked off the door, "Just tell her directly, or write her a note."

"[Name] said that?" K.K. tilted her head, "When?"

"Earlier this morning as she was walking in." Steven answered, "She was helping Leo with someone else."

"OH!" K.K. sparkled from the eyes out, "That's so perfect! See Klausie, its a [Name] approved method."

"Precisely." Steven turned back to Klaus, "So just tell her what you feel around her and hope for the best."

Klaus frowned in defeat, hanging his head, "Very well. I suppose I shouldn't delay much longer. But--!"

"Aht!" K.K. smacked his arm, "No buts mister! Go tell her or I will."

"No wait!" Klaus held up both hands in surrender, "I'll do it. I promise. By the end of the day."

.

You were sitting off to the side, mostly to avoid having your tail stepped on. Zapp would have to go pretty far out of his way to antagonize you from over here.

But that did mean Klaus had a slightly difficult time seeking you out. While he knew you preferred to sit off to the side, he could never remember where.

The sound of Klaus clearing his throat broke your blank daze. And his heart was doing backflips as you blinked up at him, head tilted just the tiniest bit.

"Ah, [Name], could I..." Klaus couldn't help but fidget a little nervously, "Could I speak with you for a moment?"

"Of course Klaus." You gestured to the nearby chair, "Is something wrong?"

"No! No of course not." He hid his hands under the table, "I just wanted to... um... I want to tell you..."

You didn't hesitate to press your palm against Klaus's forehead, "Are you okay? You feel a little warm."

"I-!" Klaus sat up and back a little, "I'm quite alright, I assure you. Ah... I'm just."

Klaus trailed off, his words were failing him. As badly as he wanted to tell you, the concerned look on your face had him second-guessing what he was even doing. But he promised to tell you how he felt, so he had to at least try.

"[Name], despite the fact we've only known each other a few months," Klaus finally managed to gather his thoughts, "I can't help how I feel about you. I... I'd like to know you better that is."

You were confused. Klaus was acting so very weird, it wasn't like him to lose his composure like this. And as much as you liked him, enjoyed his company, and felt as if he was the only person who would ever get you... this felt too... too...

It just didn't feel like Klaus, not the one you fell for.

"What I'm trying to say is that I'm deeply in love with you [Name]." Klaus blurted, "I don't want you to feel as if you have to reciprocate my affections, but I can't keep lying to myself by not telling you. I care about you and would be perfectly fine with remaining friends, but I am completely ah... head-over-heels for you."

Klaus thought he did something wrong. The sudden flush across your face and burbling from your equipment as you covered your mouth and turned away had him thinking you were that upset about his confession. Just before he could rescind his words...

"I feel the same..." Your voice was unnaturally high pitched, until you coughed and forced it back down, "I feel the same way. Honestly. I just... I didn't want to say anything because..."

Klaus nudged your fingers with his own. Silently asking permission before grabbing your hand, holding it tenderly, and rubbing his thumb across the back.

"Please don't try to finish that thought [Name]." Klaus barely smiled, not wanting to frighten you with his smile, "I assure you that had you said something first, I wouldn't think any less of you as a person. Even if my own feelings hadn't been as strong, I would have considered this a possibility."

You turned away, cheeks blushing a forest fire. It didn't feel real, and yet you knew deep down that this was what you wanted.

As long as you didn't wake up in that tank again, you'd be fine.