Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Footsteps echoed across polished floors revealed the location of a trio moving silently in a large room. No one dared to speak, a single misstep would be quite a problem considering the current high stakes.

There was only one mission here: to free their associates whilst being careful doing so.

I mean, what good could anyone do if they all got caught?

ITrapped knew danger was a part of the job. He stopped being worried and scared long ago when exploiting, but this. This was an entirely separate game. 

The admins were harsh. Their reign was a cold hard authority almost akin to dictators in his opinion. ITrapped would have spat on their shoes if he could, though the day he gets caught he probably would.

In the midst of the marketplace crash and data breach, none of his mates had seen this coming. Perhaps he had gone too far. He often wondered if his overstep in that incident cost them all of this trouble.

The group came up to a metal door locked with a keycode meant to deter all who wanted in or out without permission. The others turned to ITrapped, as he seemed to be the only one that still had access to the commands. It helped that his name went under the radar the first time.

Child’s play.

The hacker scoffed as he opened the gateway to the admin panel, its layout memorized as he had gone over it thousands of times before. With the click of a button, the door gently opened up and the group continued on their way.

Flights 

            And 

                    Flights

                                Of

                                      Stairs

                                               Wove

                                                          Around

                                                                       And

                                                        Around

                                                As

                                        The

                         Criminals

                                         Moved

                                                     Swiftly

                                                                 Yet

                                                                       Hushed

                                                                 In

                                                          The

                                             Stairwell.

The air felt thicker down here like a cavern with no airflow. ITrapped couldn’t distinguish if it was really the environment or simple anxiety he hadn’t sensed taking over. 

The feeling was a little intoxicating, but it was one he couldn’t allow himself to indulge in.

Moving into a long hall, the walls became lined with holding cells, some empty, others not so much. The prisoners remained quiet even if they saw the group of strangers, as if they’d already given up hope. 

It was disturbing.

A voice cut through the silence, “Where are they all?”

ITrapped squinted before directing the others to different cells in the hall, “Let’s make this quick.”

The three split up in order to seek out their targets. ITrapped walked smugly over to a cell before leaning up against its bars.

“You sure took your time.” Ellernate sat up on the bed of his cell, a tinge of relief in his voice.

“It is difficult to plan a jailbreak. Be grateful I came anyway.” ITrapped looked at the others and prepared to free them all, opening his panel. “Where is Caleb? I couldn’t find his cell in the logs.”

Ellernate paused and crossed his arms, “They took him. I haven’t seen him since.” He had rising frustration in his voice.

“You don’t think they banned him, do you?” ITrapped faced his ally. Ellernate could only shrug. 

Getting someone back from holding was easy. Plan a little jailbreak, sure.

A ban? That’s a one way ticket to the one place very few have access to. It would be near impossible to get Caleb back from there.

“Trapped, let’s go.” A voice called from behind signaling finished prep work.

“Alright. We’re getting the hell out of here.” The hacker hit the destroy command without hesitation causing the bars on the three cells to shatter.

SCREECH

Alarms cried out.

The moments following were a blur.

Up and out the stairs. Across the large room.

ITrapped and Ellernate were in sync, the rush reminiscent of their initial escape back to the job that got them in trouble. The feeling was unlike any other. A clack, step to step, echoed as they rushed across the marble floors.

More sirens wailed and called for help.

In and out.

Groups of policemen flocked to block their paths out with guns ready to fire. ITrapped pulled his hood further down as they all once again switched directions. 

Hall after hall, lines of soldiers clogged the way through.

Everyone was shouting orders.

“Halt!”

“Stop right there!”

“Move!”

“Come on!”

After the fourth hall they ran towards became seemingly closed, ITrapped looked for any other solution. He was unable to open the admin panel. Was there a scrambler of some sort? Had they found him out? He couldn't be sure nor did he have the luxury to dwell on the thought any longer.

With backs pressed against walls and tails between legs, the group agreed to scatter into different rooms, desperate to find a new path. The hacker did the same and dove into a nearby room, falling with a thud as he shut the door behind him hoping no one saw him get in here.

Ellernate hadn’t followed him. 

Separated and alone, he was unsure how to proceed and scanned the room for an exit. They’d meet up once they were outside, surely.

In and out.

The hacker hesitated before turning to move deeper into the room. The chance of another way out here seemed low, but it didn’t hurt to at least check.

ITrapped’s breathing became apparent to him as he walked further into the dark room full of detailed banners left to cover in dust. There was a strange pulsing in the room, the sound droning the further Trap walked in.

“What on earth…” The hacker mumbled once his eyes fell upon what seemed to be an artifact of a sword sitting on display. 

ITrapped approached the little pedestal, a slight bit of curiosity in his head. The sword in question appeared to be seeping with an intense energy, one almost dark in nature.

The blade was darker than night, the craftsmanship sharp and experienced.

It called to him, filled his mind with harsh and cold thoughts. The world surrounding him seemed to fade and left the sword and him to remain.

Was this a calling? Some sort of otherworldly power? Despite how terrible it seemed, for some reason ITrapped wanted it even more.

More and more.

He reached out his hand then…

Stinging agonizing pain.

The ice within him froze over once more as he felt the soul of the sword anchor itself within him.

ITrapped fell to his knees. Deeper and deeper, the blade pierced through his current sense of self and reordered it piece by piece. Tearing, clawing, it all appeared to be happening at once. 

He began to choke, his throat gasping for air yet unable to receive any.

It spoke to him. Not entirely in words, but in impulsive and ugly thoughts. The hacker’s body convulsed and shook on the floor, an evil stirring within.

This went on for several minutes before… silence.

ITrapped gasped for air, sitting up panicked and dazed from the dull pain in his chest. He could taste heavy iron on his lips, blood seeping out of his mouth. 

What was that?

The sounds of approaching forces snapped him out of his daze. He sat up in a slight panic as if they could shove their way in at any moment. 

“Hands above your head!”

Had someone gotten caught? Surely not. Right…?

Shivering and weak, ITrapped made his way over to the door, stumbling over every step before catching himself against the solid wood. Using the side of his arm, he opened the door slightly to peek out.

No.

He could see the figures of his teammates in his blurred vision. Huddled like wild animals surrounded, but still snarling and ready to bite.

The anger in ITrapped’s chest rose and bloomed in multiple shades.

He couldn’t let this happen.

Using all the strength he could, ITrapped succeeded in opening the admin panel once more.

They had to leave. They would leave. He would break necks if he had to.

All the menus were still glitched and struggling to respond, but it didn’t stop his attempts. He kept fumbling with the menus with shivering hands.

Come on, come on.

Soon, the large flashing word on his screen gave him relief.

Teleporting in 3…2…

ITrapped was not able to set a location. He had no real idea where any of his allies or he would end up. Perhaps that would be part of the rush. He’d find them eventually. He was sure of it.

His vision faded as the countdown ended.

In a split second, all of the known perpetrators had disappeared in front of the police’s eyes. 

There were only five known suspects and ITrapped was not one of them. Admins were called to the scene to find any trace of where the criminals had gone to but to no avail. A manhunt would be issued across the lands to find those identified by authorities. 

When the hacker awoke, he was by himself in an alley within the big city. It would’ve been a miracle if he could’ve done anything by himself at that moment to find anyone. Instead, he reluctantly moved to hide away for the night knowing the others would most likely do the same.

More work would be done overtime. Now he had to think of Caleb.

He would get him back as well.

There was a lot of work to do.
ITrapped liked challenges.

Chapter Text

ITrapped was starting to hate challenges.

After about a week of laying low, he had begun to obsessively gather plenty of information on the Banlands through third party sources. As expected, the situation was looking grim, almost impossible if done incorrectly. 

Using the admin panel in its glitched state wouldn’t be much help breaking and entering. In general, sneaking in would not prove successful due to the one biggest unforeseen horrible horrific problem.

The Banlands only had one way in and out. 

No backways. No tripped up code. A singular and sturdy gate.

To get through said gate, one would need a special key that ITrapped, obviously, did not have access to.

Which, if not clear enough, was a problem.

So, he began to search for locations of these keys. This process took the longest. No random individuals would have information on some of the most important keys in the land so he had to be nitpicky on what he could believe.

Months went by. Months to years. 

He was a great percent sure that Builderman had one, but obviously trying to get one from him was a one way ticket to a cold metal cell.

As much as he’d like to steal from the guy, hard-hat didn’t seem to like jokes. Hard no. Could not happen. For a while, he believed that might’ve been the only key.

However after entry to an exclusive lounge, ITrapped found another possibility.

“Some casino of some sort.” A man in a clean suit chuckled to his group of pals, amused by the game of cards before him. “Kid running the place is whacked. Absolute nut job.”

A man with a red handkerchief lit a cigarette, “When you gots money, you can do anything. Even be a dumbass.”

ITrapped shuffled his weight, swirling the ice cubes in his water.

“I mean, who lies to people about a Banlands key? That shit will put a bullet in his head someday.”

“I bet you he’d do it himself.”

The table cackled quietly.

These types of rumors were very common, so he couldn’t trust the word of some drunkards. They could’ve easily been lying themselves.

Why would some random rich family have a key anyway? He moved to check out the claim.

To his shock, they were right.

A well known wealthy family who owned a casino in the entertainment district seemed to have access to a Banlands key.

Now that was a lead.

The family, made up of two parents and a son, seemed to have established a prestigious standing as well as owning one of the highest grossing casinos in the area.

Well, there were many ways to go about this and each were more risky if not frustrating. 

Idea #1: Kidnap their son and demand a key for his safe return.

This could fail easily considering they probably had the admins on speed dial. Unless ITrapped wanted to find the fastest way to lose, this way was a bust.

Idea #2: Sneak in and steal it himself.

He had absolutely no clue where that key was. Sure, he was the closest thing you could get to a wizard around these parts, but he’s not godly yet. 

And the final idea…

Idea #3: Charm a way in, then snatch it quietly.

This would be by far the most invested he’d be in a heist personally. It could take ages to gain the trust of someone in a rich family, but it was the safest option he had. The only target? 

Their son.

There were constant reports that he had liked to play in the casino often which was quite odd considering all the wealth he already had.

That kid’s personality and reception to friendship would be an absolute gamble, he’d have to get lucky to establish a close enough relationship to get that key… and perhaps some riches too.

It was a risk he would take for Caleb.

The others had probably been on the run for ages now. The police continued to come up empty and that seemed to calm ITrapped’s concerns but it was never enough. He wanted total freedom from that worry and fear.

He’d get Caleb, find Ellernate, and dash.

His hands gripped at his hair, which had grown quite long overtime, as he brushed. He sort of enjoyed the style, it had a long, flowy elegance to it, but he knew if his mates were here, they’d absolutely tease the life out of him.

Their ridiculous opinions weren’t around for the moment so he didn’t care.

Oh well.

He hoped he would get the chance to hear those familiar insults again sometime soon either way.

“Geez, Ice Queen, don’t be too upset.”

“Whatever, Caleb.”

ITrapped stared into the mirror after dawning an elegant outfit topped with an ice crown he liked to style with outside of hacking work. 

He barely recognized the exhausted, pained figure before him. 

Though he looked the part of put together, he definitely didn't feel like it at all. His chest was constantly aching while his head spun, but he pushed it all aside to focus on the task.

Taking a deep breath, ITrapped composed himself once more before finally making his way to the door and disappeared into the night crowds of the city.

In the biggest city in Robloxia, night time was a bustling every day event in the entertainment district. Clubs to casinos to bars, if you wanted to party irresponsibly, the place was around here.

ITrapped never found himself out here for any sort of fun. In fact, his group had typically chosen to stay in for any activities due to their bad criminal record and warrants. It was better than getting caught and the trio preferred each other’s company regardless.

The quiet nature of those previous get togethers was something the hacker appreciated more now that he was out here. The streets were in absolute chaos.

People shoved, took up the sidewalks, became general nuisances. Somehow even the smallest of things were angering him, he tried not to scowl but for some reason his emotions were overtaking him.

God, how does anyone find this entertaining?

Calm yourself. You cannot fumble here, you must make contact with your target.

It wasn’t long before ITrapped slowed his walk as he came up upon his destination. A large and polished casino stood before him, its theme colors being a bright red and white like a playing card. 

People of all kinds poured in and out, some with defeated looks most likely from losing, others giggling and laughing with their friends. 

ITrapped took in the scenery for a moment before pushing into the crowd and entering the gambling floor.

A young man in a fedora sat at a table meant for poker along with some other miscellaneous individuals. He seemed to be bantering and laughing with the group like they were old friends though the expressions of the customers said otherwise. 

“You sure that’s the play you want to go with, kid?” One of the older men sneered while maintaining a relaxed position.

“Oh yeah, trust me. No way I lose!” The young man chuckled at the question. That sentiment was genuine. He fully believed in his luck.

ITrapped kept his distance at first, simply watching the game from afar and seeing how his target acted, but because of the bustling crowds, he had to move in closer and watch to even understand anything. 

At least he could finally make out his fac-

Is this idiot wearing sunglasses inside?

The game continued and chips moved around the table swiftly. Trap had a hard time keeping up, in fact, he realized he didn’t truly know how to play this game. The few times he had, it was amateur work at best.

“Ha! Pay up!” The table watched in absolute disbelief as the kid pulled some of the most unbelievable shots winning time and time again. A massacre. But they all simply kept playing.

ITrapped stared in silence at the grumbling group who experienced another loss at the hands of this guy.

Surely this is rigged in his favor… right?

There’s absolutely no way he can just win like that each time…

“Hey there!”

The hacker jumped at the voice, almost forgetting he was actually in the room he was observing. The young man had spun around to look at him and seemed to be directly addressing him. ITrapped could’ve sworn this guy never actually saw him, so how’d they know he was watching…?

“You must be enchanted by my plays so far! Lady Luck is really on my side today.” He flashed a cocky smile as the croupier set up for another game. “Care to try your luck?”

Just like I practiced.

“Oh… I don’t know. I’m not familiar with this game.” ITrapped managed an unsure expression.

The young man tipped his fedora, “Ah, a newcomer. Well… I can show ya how to play this next game if you want. Then maybe we can play together.” 

The man offered him a chair and ITrapped took it and thanked them, “Oh, uh- sure. I can’t guarantee I’ll be any good anyway, though… Mr…?” 

“Chance. Just Chance. Now, let’s do this.”

Chance spent the next entire game explaining small details to Trap about the general rules and how to play. He was suddenly on a losing streak and was unsure exactly why, but of course ITrapped had recognized the fact he was terrible at keeping his voice low and was essentially spilling everything with each explanation.

He snickered a bit every time he knew the others heard but attempted to remain composed.

Once the game had come to a close, Chance nodded at ITrapped as if he hadn’t just fumbled every single round.

“Does that make sense?” They leaned over to try to read the hacker’s expression better. ITrapped chuckled, “It does now, thank you. Though it seems luck was not on your side this time.”

Chance waved his hand, “Pff- Oh no worries. That’s why I play again.” 

“That sounds like an addiction.” ITrapped raised an eyebrow.

“I see it as a good strategy.” Chance grinned, “So, care to play a round?”

ITrapped smiled, “I believe I actually may have to go for the night.”

“Aww, already? I was just getting started.” 

ITrapped thought for a moment, “Well… I can come back tomorrow if you want to meet up and play some games.”

Chance sat up a little straighter, “Sweet. Sounds like a plan. What time and where?”

“9pm at the bar. I’ll be here.” ITrapped stood up slowly.

“I’m looking forward to it… uh…” They hesitated when going to address him.

ITrapped cut in, “ITrapped. I’ll see you tomorrow, Chance.”

With that, the king of ice walked out and disappeared with the flow of the crowd. Chance’s eyes lingered on where ITrapped had been for a moment.

ITrapped’s head was spinning even more due to stress and the chaos of the venue. After shoving through crowds, he had never felt so relieved to have enough space to put up his arms.

At least everything seemed to go to plan. This would be easier than he thought.

Well… that settled it.

The hacker began to walk into the night with the interaction replaying in his head.

Tomorrow it is.

Chapter Text

“You’re being so fucking careless!”

Ellernate paced back and forth as ITrapped closed a door behind him. He didn’t make eye contact with his friends, merely pretending as if they hadn’t been talking or even in this reality. Caleb remained quiet with his arms crossed in the corner of the room. His expression was unreadable.

“Dude, are you listening?” Ellernate paused for a moment before stomping forward and shoving ITrapped’s shoulder so hard he stumbled back. Trap didn’t falter, but his eyes remained down. “What’s your problem? Are you even here with us?”

“It was just a couple of extra sales. Nothing that noteworthy.” ITrapped’s expression soured even if he dared not to see the exact look he was being given. Almost as if he were too afraid to see it. He didn’t want to prove to them that he cared.

“A couple extra? You’re moving around HEAVILY sought after goods. Do you think the admins will just look the other fucking way for you?” Ellernate stepped closer, “YOU’RE JUST DOING WHATEVER THE HELL YOU WANT AND PUTTING US ALL AT RISK.”

ITrapped’s frustration was bubbling like a volcano ready to blow. He grit his teeth as his balled fists became white from lack of bloodflow. Not that he could feel any pain well enough in his finger tips.

His mind was foggy as Ellernate continued beating his pride for several minutes. Several words were thrown out.

Selfish.

Reckless.

Greedy.

He couldn’t hold it in.

“YOU’RE GIVEN ALL THIS POWER AND DO BARE MINIMUM WITH IT! AT LEAST I’M SMART ENOUGH TO USE MY FUCKING RESOURCES, ASSHOLE.” His tone was dripping with rage. Ellernate was one of his closest friends, which meant he knew exactly what buttons to press to thaw the ice king.

It almost looked like an all out fight was about to sprout from the dispute when Caleb stepped in between the two.

“That’s enough, at least for now. We have a job to do and this fighting isn’t doing our operation any good. ITrapped go wind down. Please.”

Despite his added pleasantry, Trap knew he had no choice in the matter. He glared at Ellernate for a moment longer before pushing past him with a huff.

“There were better ways to go about that, Nate.” Caleb turned to Ellernate the moment their friend left the room. Ellernate remained quiet, obviously having heard Caleb, just electing not to listen. He too left the room seething.

As ITrapped reached his room, his hands began to shake.

Perhaps I have taken it too far. I mean, what if…

The hacker shook his head. No. He had to be right. These sales would’ve been made sooner or later so why not rush to do them now? 

The hacker removed his hood and moved to try to fix his hair. His footsteps were quiet against the floorboards, a silent anger continuing to pour out of him.

You were always right.

ITrapped reached for his comb, his hand twitching and forgetting how to move as he stared into the mirror. 

A stranger stared back at him.

A silhouette of his rage materialized before his eyes. 

It whispered to him.

Do what it takes.

The room faded before him.

The nightmare caused ITrapped to shoot up from his slumber like a terrified child. He grasped at his pained heart and glanced around the room trying to gain his bearings and push through the stinging sensation.

They aren’t here. They’re still gone.

He didn’t allow himself to remain idle any longer. Why dwell on the past if you can’t change it? There was no reason he should be thinking of these frivolous things at the moment anyway. 

If anything, he should be focused on a game plan.

ITrapped moved to his mirror almost hesitantly expecting the worst, but thankfully was the only thing staring back at him.

Your entire goal depends on today.

Don’t mess up.

Darkheart simmered deep within the hacker’s thoughts.

The night came swiftly enough.

Chance sat patiently on a stool at the casino’s main bar while flipping a coin with his right hand. The sounds of glass clinking and boisterous conversation filled the room. Despite the chaos, there was a sense of comfort.

This was joy and laughter you’d find nowhere else. A safe haven and a curse all together. 

Bright lights and shimmering hope to win it big kept the place lively. 

The gambler let his eyes wander before they fell upon a familiar silhouette. 

Moving gracefully through the chaos, ITrapped spotted his target waiting patiently at the bar. It seemed Chance had already spotted him as well due to his wide grin that could be seen for miles.

“Welcome back, newcomer.” Chance turned his full attention and most of his body to face ITrapped as he paused having finally reached his destination.

“Do I look that out of place?” ITrapped tilted his head slightly with a smile to insinuate friendliness.

Chance waved his hand up and downwards, “Nah, honestly I’m messing with you. I hope the walk wasn’t too chaotic.” They gestured for ITrapped to take a seat on the chair next to them. ITrapped bowed slightly in thanks before sitting.

“It’s always… less than pleasant with these heavy crowds.” He sighed, some of his actual frustrations seeping out in his tone. The hacker caught himself before he let it slip too much.

That was weird.

Chance flipped his coin as they chuckled, “Ah well. They’re probably just excited to win. What better rush is there than that?” 

The conversation flowed too easily with Chance. ITrapped felt constantly on edge with each word said.  It was as if the guy could magically drag out thoughts he would normally let simmer.

Chance treated others like old friends entirely off the bat seemingly. He’d seen it yesterday with the group and now he too was experiencing it.

The bartender eventually came over and asked ITrapped if he wanted anything.

“Oh… water would be just fine, thank you.” He nodded slightly.

Chance raised an eyebrow, “Ooh, no alcohol? Allergic?”

ITrapped chuckled softly, “No, simply just not a fan. I like to keep my wits about me.” The bartender pushed a glass of water in front of ITrapped who took it graciously before paying immediately.

“Alright then, alright then.” The gambler nodded as if processing the information before he seemed satisfied. There was a silence between the two, Trap knew what was coming next.

“Well, ‘wits guy’, care to tell me a bit about yourself?” Chance rested his head on his palm while facing the hacker to show that he was at full attention. “You don’t seem like the type to frequent casinos and you’re already pretty interesting to talk to.”

“Why would that be? I haven’t done too much.” The hacker took a sip of water and turned his body towards Chance.

“Well first, who comes to a casino and doesn’t drink?” Chance noted.

ITrapped rolled his eyes, “Who wears sunglasses inside? Now that is odd.”

Chance put their hands up as if they’d been caught, “Hey, I look really good in them. Can’t bad talk about the outfit if it’s great.”

“So you do not have a reason?” The hacker mirrored Chance’s leaning position. There was a moment of silence between them before the gambler gave in and sighed in defeat.

“Well. They’re good for a poker face… not that I need them anyway.” The gambler crossed his arms. “I was already good without them.” 

ITrapped chuckled at the thought. Of all ways to improve performance, committing to sunglasses all the time was quite drastic if not silly. 

“I would doubt that considering you must’ve been bad enough to even think of using assistance.”

Chance pretended to be very offended putting a hand to their chest, “I’ll have you know it’s not assistance! Your words burn my pride!”

ITrapped rolled his eyes in a joking manner finishing his small glass of water. Chance sat up straight once more.

“So, ready to give these poker a shot?”

This would be interesting, not that ITrapped would be focused on the game anyway.

After leaving the bar, Chance began to lead the way around the inner areas of the busy casino. 

Electricity must’ve been in the air as the energy wrapped around the guests as they worked through games and tried their chances with slots. ITrapped was almost amazed there were enough people interested in this sort of atmosphere. The bright lights were overwhelming.

He was almost a bit jealous that people could so frivolously throw cash away.

Chance hadn’t slowed since he stood, his step almost too excited in comparison to the hackers. It was as if his energy was never ending. Quite an extrovert.

Despite this, one odd thing ITrapped had noted was the lack of attention Chance seemed to get.

Their parent owned the casino. His family was a very well known wealthy social superpower. 

Surely more people should know who he is.

Yet, no one seemed to. Or at least no one cared enough to greet them as the two passed.

The hacker chose not to question it for the time being. He had checked and Chance didn’t have any body guards or suspicious intel on the reason to his typical individuality, so it was probably fine.

After reaching the backend of the casino, Chance led ITrapped into what seemed to be a hall for private rooms situated for the privacy of high paying guests. 

Towards the end of the hall, ITrapped even noticed a sketchy staircase he wasn’t sure had all too legal activities happening down. 

The gambler ran around the place as if it were a playground or a childhood home. How careless. 

They passed closed rooms before eventually stopping at one in which Chance, with no hesitation, waltzed right in, motioning Trap to follow suit as they closed the door.

The air shifted as they stepped in.

ITrapped had been in very sketchy situations before.

I mean, he was a hacker after all. One of the most sought after, even if the admins didn’t know it.

He had been directly involved in illegal sales and had seen more than any should in their lifetime. He messed with the economy more times than Builderman had actually been useful.

But now, he felt the urge to sink into himself a little as he surveyed the room.

Many unnamed individuals sat quietly around a poker table seemingly waiting for the two to sit so they could play. Each step further, ITrapped had to remind himself to breathe.

“Hey guys!” Chance cheerfully took his seat as he addressed the room, “Ready for some intense games?”

There were quiet murmurs of agreement, a woman in a long magenta dress spoke, “I’m ready to raise stakes and win it all.”

Chance nodded, “I think we’re ready to go then!”

Then the table started to place bets. ITrapped had thought about this, he brought a decent amount and figured he would use from the sale fund or spawn a little more with his panel if need be. 

Luckily, despite having occasional issues, his admin panel was working relatively normally again after some tweaks.

Come to think of it… Chance hadn’t actually mentioned what level of robux would be bet here… 

Thousands!?!?!?

ITrapped try to hide his shock as players tossed robux like candy and got their chips. He had to fit in…

The hacker began to calculate how much he should throw in here before Chance shoved chips in his direction, catching him off guard.

“Wh- What are you doing?” ITrapped flicked his eyes to Chance whilst trying to keep his calm composure.

Chance just readjusted his glasses, which, in a dark room illuminated by dim lighting, looked even more ridiculous, “Don’t worry about the amount. I just want you to have fun. That’s the best way to chill.”

Oh.

ITrapped sat in silence for a moment.

This man cannot be real.

“Thanks… Shades.”

Chance laughed at the nickname.

The game began.

ITrapped did his best to match the speed of the table he was playing with, but in his mind he was panicking. Especially in the beginning.

Even though there was lots of friendly conversation, with how high their bets were, ITrapped knew that he was in a room of some high earning people. Important robloxians. It made his skin crawl.

Chance, however, seemed to be in his element, in fact, they did their best to include Trap in every conversation they could. The game was ever moving, fast and unforgiving. It was a bit overwhelming, but the hacker appreciated the extra assistance in networking. The gambler was actually calming his nerves alittle.

“I’ll put in 600.”

“No way you’ll win with that.”

“Are you tell me how ta play?”

The game paused for an argument. Chance clasped his hands patiently as they turned to talk to ITrapped as they all waited, “She’s playing very risky.”

“I couldn’t tell you the difference, honestly.” His voice came out a bit exhausted. The constant planning of the game was weighing heavy on his already aching head.

“I think you’re doing fine, actually. Not much of a newbie after all, hm?” Chance elbowed his new friend, ITrapped smiled and rolled his eyes, “Just lucky, I suppose. Can’t be as lucky as you.”

“I’ve got a gift. You must be sooo lucky to have met me.” Chance raised his eyebrows with a smirk. 

If only they knew. I’m very lucky. Soon I will be, at least.

“Well, someone is very confident.”

Chance nodded, “Am I though?”

ITrapped shrugged, “Well you’d be right. I am lucky to have met you, you’re quite… remarkable.” 

The line was laced with honey. If anything, out of himself and his two friends, ITrapped had to have been the best at sweet talking. 

Reading people was typically an easy task and he always knew what to say to get the ball rolling. 

It was hard to tell by facial expressions due to their hat and sunglasses, but judging by body language, ITrapped knew he had said exactly what the gambler wanted to hear.

Chance smiled and waved his hand, “Ohhh, you knowww.”

They got back to playing.

In the end, Chance had won pretty much every single round of poker with what seemed to be no effort at all. The day before, ITrapped had wondered if it really was all rigged, but after viewing the game right up close, he knew that it was legit.

The luck of this guy was simply theoretically impossible.

But he was so naive to it??

The two left that room as Chance was basically floating in euphoria. 

“See, all in a day's work.” The gambler took even steps as he removed his hat to run a hand through his hair. 

“That was… impressively terrifying. I’ve never seen anyone win so much.” ITrapped’s voice faltered a bit knowing he’d lost over and over pretty miserably. It stung a little to lose in a game where he wasn’t in his element.

Chance shrugged, “Lady luck does what she must. I am her champion.” He laughed.

ITrapped smirked, “Sounds like I need to tell her to quit with you. You’re simply inhuman.”

“Sounds like a sore loser to me!”

Their individual footsteps were lost in the crowd as they pushed through.

“We should meetup again. That was genuinely the most fun I’ve had at a table.” Chance paused as ITrapped did right outside the casino.

“I think we should as well.” Good. Making it casual.

“You got a cell? I can give you my number.” Chance pulled out his phone from his suit pocket. 

That thing had to be worth more than most of these buildings , ITrapped thought staring at the model.

“I don’t have it on me now. I’ll put mine in yours.” 

The hacker received the phone and typed in his number for the gambler swiftly before handing it back. Chance nodded, “I’ll text you, then. Need me to walk you home?”

ITrapped put up a gloved hand immediately shooting down the possibility as nicely sounding as possible, “I’ll be alright, but thank you. Let’s talk soon. Goodnight, Chance.”

“Goodnight, ITrapp-”

Before the gambler could even finish his sentence, he watched as Trap slinked into the night like a ghost. Only this one seemed to haunt his thoughts. He felt happier than normal.

Sure it could’ve been the games he just won, but he knew this was different. 

He was finally connecting with someone. A personal connection.

Not business or forced. Just a casual blooming friendship.

No game of cards he played had ever given him this feeling. He wanted to bury himself into it and never let it go. 

It was just so… 

warm.

He smiled, staring into the street before turning to return into the establishment.

“I hope this feeling lasts forever.”  The gambler chuckled to himself.

Chapter Text

Each time ITrapped entered the casino, the initial interaction with Chance was relatively the same: small chatting at the bar before moving to play some games. Some days ITrapped simply spectated, choosing to watch over Chance’s shoulder or sit by his side as he played. 

Even though they were spending more time at a casino, the hacker still struggled to understand the full intention behind the excitement of gambling for a while. 

It was only after a bit more inspection did he understand.

Adrenaline.

The act of losing and gaining money. Putting so much on the line. It must be terrifying for high rollers, but that feeling keeps them coming back.

ITrapped couldn’t understand that feeling too well in a casino setting since his adrenaline kicked in during actual danger. Run-ins with mafia or almost getting caught by admins really dim down every other experience, so it made sense.

However, with Chance, it didn’t make sense.

They had so much as a rich kid, but that meant the money they gambled shouldn’t give as much of a rush as it did an average robloxian.

So why?

Why do they enjoy this so much?

“Soooo… think this is a good hand?” The gambler leaned back so far to whisper to ITrapped he was practically out of his chair.

The hacker scoffed and pushed Chance back to a sitting position whilst scooting closer so they wouldn’t fall backwards.

He glanced at the cards.

“Hmmm… I don’t know, Shades. Someone’s luck might be rusting.” He teased playfully.

“That’s cold, Ice.” 

ITrapped watched their plays with care. He judged each move and remained focused as the game was carried out… his mind began to wander…

The sounds of robloxians running around and chatting filled his ears…

For around a week now, ITrapped hadn’t been getting too much sleep. Pains in his chest just ceased his chances at sleeping peacefully. He wondered if it was his body telling him something was severely wrong, but he couldn’t go to hospital to get it checked. 

His location would be so easily found by anyone. If the admins figured him out at that time, he’d be screwed. A sitting duck…

The sounds of the casino seemed to grow louder and louder around him.

The whole place was a bit disorienting. Somehow the chaos seemed to tug at his exhaustion only now.

How could this be? On jobs, he would never find himself struggling to stay focused. The adrenaline was usually enough to keep him moving.

This?

This was uncalled for. It was different.

“ITrapped…?”

A voice cut through his drowsy thoughts and sent a warmth through him that made his thoughts freeze.

He hated that feeling. 

It was an empty and distant feeling to him now.

It burned a hole that couldn’t be fixed. One that only a few people filled.

People he hadn’t seen in a while or who were too far out of reach. 

People he felt he couldn’t face now.

“ITrapped…”

The hacker wanted to tear at his own skin and rip it off. It was his fault.

All his fault.

Every small thing he ever said or did became tainted with a strong guilt.

He was sure he was digging his nails into his arms as they remained crossed, but the pain was more or less blocked out in his daze-

“ITrapped!!”

ITrapped snapped back to full awareness, headbutting Chance, who was inches from his face, so hard one would have heard a bonk .

“Agh!” The hacker held his head standing out of his chair and keeling over, the sting burning. Surely this would lead to an even harsher headache. Why was Chance even that close in the first place??

Chance remained in his chair giggling while also holding his head, “Sorry- sorry- are you okay?” They stood up and immediately put both hands on ITrapped’s shoulders in an attempt to steady him. ITrapped flinched away from their touch.

“I’m… fine. I’ll be fine.” The noises around them had quieted once more as the hacker regained his senses, “What about your game?”

“The round ended a few minutes ago…” Chance hesitated, their brows furrowed, “Are you sure you’re fine? You look pale.”

Shit.

Was it really that obvious?

“I’m alright. I promise. I don’t mind still hanging out, I just might clock out on any games for the rest of the night. Just… lead the way.” The way ITrapped finished his statement was to hint that he didn’t want questions. 

Luckily, Chance chose not to persist.

“Okay, but let me know if you’re done or need a break, though.”

ITrapped nodded, his head pounding a little too much to argue. 

As soon as Chance got that confirmation, they grabbed ITrapped’s hand and began to lead the way through the crowds in search of a new thrill, decidingly keeping their pace slower than usual because of what just occurred.

It was only after surveying the upstairs area and pushing past a few crowds did anything catch Chance’s eyes.

A large gathering of people surrounding what seemed to be a Craps game.

“A crowd?? Ohhhh?” The gambler smiled, piqued interest in his voice like an excited child. 

ITrapped could only sigh at the sight of more people to push past. The two began to move in to try peek at what got casino goers so interested.

The hacker attempted to listen to spectators to understand.

“I can’t believe it.”

“How lucky do you have to be?”

Augh.

His head was pounding too much for this.

Chance tapped a well dressed woman on the shoulder, “Excuse me, miss. What’s getting the crowd so hyped?”

The woman smiled, “Oh, the bets at this table are downright ridiculous. A man already lost his house so far.”

An entire house? What kind of an idiot bets their house?

“This sounds like my kinda table.” Chance smiled.

Excuse me? ITrapped could not hide the look of absolute disbelief. Are all rich people like this idiot or was I just this unlucky?

Without another word, Chance pulled ITrapped along as he practically jumped into one of the open chairs, all eyes now suddenly on the gambler and to the hacker’s dismay, ITrapped as well. Trap adjusted his hair nervously as the gambler turned to the active players.

“Heya’ fellas. Mind if I join?” The gambler adjusted his hat with an unmatched confidence. 

A man who seemed absolutely far too drunk looked Chance up and down as if to size them up. 

There is no way anyone would take him too seriously, but after the luck hell he’s about to put them through, I’m sure they will soon. Trap chuckled softly at his own thoughts, amused by the power Chance unknowingly held.

The drunkard laughed, “Only if you’re willing to bet up something valuable, kid.”

The crowd leaned in patiently waiting for whatever treasure Chance could possibly gamble away. Whispers about their status seemed to finally be circulating in the crowd.

The hacker didn’t hold his breath.

“Lets play 15 rounds, if you win more than me, I’ll give up the ownership of this casino to you.”

What???

Silence. 

The breathing of the hungry crowd could be heard as the realization of what Chance just offered up hit them all one by one.

The robloxians around erupted into screams, chanting and bouncing excitedly.

The drunkard was in shock, contemplating this deal.

This idiot!

“Chance! What the hell are you doing?” ITrapped’s eyes were wide with shock as he gazed at the completely unbothered expression Chance seemed to have.

“Just making things interesting! It’s fineeeee.” Chance waved away ITrapped’s worry as he adjusted his glasses. 

The dismissal for some reason offended Trap deeper than he felt he should’ve been. He’s just willing to put a whole casino on the line for some short-lived adrenaline??

He didn’t even consult his parents. What would they say??? Betraying his family like that??? What about his own wellbeing? 

Plus, losing here could put his mission at risk. What if somehow this random drunkard got a hold of the key??

He still didn’t know where it was. What if it was in the casino? Such a huge variable of the plan was at stake here.

All of this came to the forefront of ITrapped’s mind on top of the fact of how stupid the idea was.

How stupid Chance was being.

How naive they were.

ITrapped panicked, but his panic wasn’t graceful.

In fact, it turned furious.

The hacker chastised Chance as if he were a child, “You can’t just… throw that kind of stuff out! If you lose, you could be in deep trouble.” 

Chance giggled, seemingly still unbothered, “Soo much trouble, I know. This guys got nothin on me- I promise, I’ll just wi-”

There was no way Trap would let him go through with this…

He couldn’t let them.

The pain in his head grew.

ITrapped gripped Chance’s shoulders tightly, his anger rolling out of control swiftly and his heart pounding hard, “Good fucking god, Chance, listen to me! You’re being so reckless and for what?!? Some laughs??? Don’t be so simple minded and naive!!!”

Chance’s smile disappeared. 

They were blindsided.

Fuck .

ITrapped let go of Chance’s shoulders and paused for a moment before just pushing back through the crowd who hardly noticed what happened over their excitement.

The gambler’s expression, one that was laced with a little hurt, burned into his mind immediately. The tone must’ve been too harsh. Maybe calling him simple minded and naive was a bit too far?

Whatever it was that hurt Chance caused that expression.

He couldn’t bear to stare at it. 

He didn’t know why.

Passing the shouting and the roar of the excited crowd, Chance tunnel visioned on the hacker as ITrapped reached the edge of the crowd.

Trap’s mind was just not right.

He felt faint again. He felt sick to his stomach. There was that familiar pain in his chest.

Why was this difficult?

Why was this so difficult???

He’d done so much worse before. Why was yelling at some idiot giving him so much guilt? 

Why was he so upset that he needed to run out of there?

Why was he letting his emotions get the best of him recently?

The anxiety when he played poker? The anger he displayed today? Zoning out on the job?

God, what the hell was wrong with him?

It must be the mission. By gambling away the casino, it would’ve put the entire mission at risk and he lost his bearings.

In his anger, he forgot he had to become close with Chance in order to complete the mission.

That must be it, the reason for the guilt.

That’s right. 

Nothing to do with the sleepless nights or the intrusive negative thoughts.

Nothing to do with the pain.
Not that he actually cared for Chance and what could’ve happened if he lost.

Just the mission being at stake.

The hacker pushed his way to one of the casino balconies since he was upstairs. 

He just needed fresh air. Something to help him regain his bearings. 

ITrapped took in shaky breaths as wind brushed his face and the lights of the city became his company. The railing was his grounding point.

For a little while, the balcony’s silence comforted him. He let the fury slip out of him.

He felt calm again.

He felt like himself again. The pain in his chest subsided.

A pair of footsteps stepped out and joined the hacker.

Chance walked up quietly behind ITrapped, eventually joining him on the railing.

“ITrapped…?” Their voice was hesitant, walking on eggshells due to the episode Trap had in front of so many people… even his stance lost a lot of confidence. Wow, what Trap said must've really struck them.

ITrapped winced as he began to feel that creeping guilt. Chance didn't necessarily say or do anything that required name-calling. 

He could've... should've been more gentle with it, but didn't in his moment of panic. 

ITrapped was thinking of what to say, but Chance cut in again.

“I… didn’t know you were being serious. Y’know… about being careful about all that… I got caught up in the energy.”

ITrapped sighed, refusing to look at the figure by his side. 

He couldn't find the words, so he just let himself speak.

Just let out your thoughts, ITrapped , “I shouldn’t have snapped at you. I apologize, something has been odd with me recently and the crowd put me on edge. I panicked and got mad really fast.” 

“I mean… I get that the way you went about it was harsh- but uh- yeah I realize in retrospect gambling the casino is… kindaaa dumb.”

ITrapped scoffed, “Kinda?”

Chance smiled sheepishly, “Okayyy, a lot dumb. Really dumb. I should’ve thought that one through… the crowd just got so excited… one thing led to another. No one usually stops me from those kinds of bets…”

“I just didn't want to see anything bad happen to you.” ITrapped’s voice was soft. “You seem really nice. We haven’t known each other for long yet I feel as if I’ve known you for years.”

Chance grinned, “That was so sappy and sweet… awww.”

ITrapped felt his face redden slightly, “Shut. I’m just- trying to be honest here. I’m not good at talking.”

“I think you’re doing fine.” Chance patted ITrapped twice, who uncomfortably shuffled at the sensation.

“So… are we alright?” ITrapped asked.

“Of course, and I promise to try to be more aware.” 

The hacker let his exhaustion take over for a second as he stood there with Chance.

He took in the night air with this comforting presence next to him. It was much nicer now.

The two took deep breaths, eventually electing to chat late into the night. 

No words about the casino or gambling. No excessive pains or problems.

Just the two of them.

Whatever topics they wanted.

"Ice cream sandwiches are on top."

"They could get quite messy..."

"Heh, yeah... but they're my childhood."

Somehow it felt so natural. So raw. Kind of like...

For once since the night after the jailbreak, ITrapped forgot about his plans.

Chapter Text

With the soft glow of the tangerine light coming through mostly closed windows, the sun was setting over the horizon. ITrapped, who initially woke up at around 10am, was still lying down in bed, covers wrapped around him hiding his figure. 

Despite the time spent in his bedding, he felt completely unrested. His eyes were heavy and his head pounded. He could’ve sworn an illness had fallen over him at this point, but it was unlike any before. 

Maybe it was the late nights.

It’s true, he and Chance spent many of their hangouts much past midnight, but he also had done that during his average work days and missions. This shouldn’t have been affecting him as much as it was. The stress of it all had probably been too much.

The silence of the house remained a heavy pressure on the hacker’s heart. Loneliness entangled his thoughts like a fly in a spider’s web.

Only after he changed positions to shove his face in his pillow did he hear the distant sound of his phone buzzing lost in the covers.

The hacker, annoyed by this sudden interruption, began fumbling around underneath the covers in hopes to come across the device. This, of course, failed.

In one last attempt, ITrapped lifted the blanket over his head and shook it only to be met with an object, his phone, falling onto his face.

God damnit. Ow.

Trap slowly slid back to a full lying down position before reluctantly grabbing his phone and opening it.

From: Chance

C : “Heyyyyyy”

What do they want…

I.Tr : “Hello”

Oftentimes, Chance would reach out to ITrapped seemingly out of boredom since receiving his number. It’s not like the hacker wasn’t expecting this, but he never understood how anyone of Chance’s status could be writing this childish.

C : “Whatcha doinnnnnn”

I.Tr : “I am resting.”

C : “So early? Are you sick?”

It was very obviously in Chance’s nature to immediately worry.

Once ITrapped had tripped slightly on a small step at the casino and they treated it like the end of the world. 

The first time Chance worried over Trap in such a frenzy, it was a little overwhelming. He had to remind Chance a few times over that he was okay, but he tried not to snap. 

Sure, ITrapped found it a little annoying and dramatic that he’d do it for even small mishaps, but he just let Chance fawn over him for a minute before giggling softly to relieve the tension in them.

The gambler would typically pause and realize how he was being before returning to normal.

It was simply one of his little quirks.

Though right now, ITrapped didn’t exactly want to extend a reason for Chance to panic. If he worried the guy enough, they would’ve probably found a way to his house to take care of him. 

The idea itself wasn’t horrific… mostly just his address being found.
His target shouldn’t know where he lives.

I.Tr : “Just general exhaustion. Nothing to worry about.”

C : “You sure?”

I.Tr : “Absolutely positive.”

C : “100%??? Hmmmm?”

I.Tr : “Chance…”

C : “Okay, okay! You’re alright, gotcha. Are you still down to meet up tonight?”

I.Tr : “Of course.”

C : “Cool, cause I got a slighttt change of plans for today.”

What could they possibly be thinking of doing today? The hacker really hoped it was nothing too intensive; his body really wasn’t handling lots of movement well currently but he would commit to the mission if it was necessary.

As much as he would regret it later…

I.Tr : “What do you mean?”

C : “Wait and see ahahAHAHHA! (read that as evil laughter)”

ITrapped sighed and shook his head. What a dumbass.

Now realizing the sorry state of his appearance, the hacker stood slowly for the first time that day and began to clean not only himself but his quarters as well.

Wandering into the kitchen, ITrapped decided to make some quick ramen noodles to satiate his growing hunger before taking a few pain meds to soothe the aching. His mind wandered to the nights of chaos that went in this room, celebration and happiness used to fill the space at times.

Some of the robloxians he recalled he hadn’t spoken to since the May Madness incident. Sure, he was able to get Caleb and Ellernate to forgive him, but the situation with some of the others was quite complicated.

In fact, he tried many times using fake names to reach out to some of those who left.

It didn’t work for the ones he could locate.

The others obviously didn’t want to be found.

The fact they wouldn’t let him explain himself left a bitter taste in ITrapped’s mouth. 

Maybe they were looking for a reason to stop speaking to me.

It’s not like they tried too hard to help him in the depth of that situation. 

Only one person stood by his side…

Even then…

As his thoughts trailed off, guilt tugged once more at him, but he brushed it off as best as possible.

There’s no need to linger on choices that were calculated.

I did what I had to.

The hacker cleaned the table with precision before returning to his room to get ready.

ITrapped ran his hands through his hair as he approached the casino. 

Chance’s messages from earlier were replaying in his mind like a broken record.

He could almost imagine the dumb smile on the gambler’s face as he wrote those messages.

Perhaps it would be something more goofy and lighthearted, or perhaps they just wanted to show ITrapped a new game in the casino.

All they typically did was hang around the casino anyway. What more could Chance plan?

This could be a step in the right direction for the key. If only anything were that simple.

What if Chance figured out who I am…?

The thought crossed ITrapped’s mind as it often did, but he remained alert.

Paranoid.

This could all be a set up to get him in prison. The admins didn’t have dirt on him yet but maybe Chance somehow did?

Please let this not be the case…

The hacker’s panic was interrupted by a well dressed Chance waiting outside the casino. The sight was odd, they normally met at the bar…

Trap instinctively glanced around for any authority, luckily no one was immediately in view… he’d have to keep an eye out.

The hacker composed himself before approaching Chance who was fumbling with his sleeves.

“Chance…?” ITrapped tilted his head, his confusion evident. Chance’s body language lit up with excitement though their eyes were still hidden by shades in the middle of the night. 

“Hey, Trap!” The gambler moved forward to meet him, his steps light as the two closed the gap.

“This is definitely new. Was the big change simply our meeting spot switching?” ITrapped sarcastically tossed out, a small smile threatening to show.

Chance chuckled, “Ha. Yeah no, I promise I didn’t get you all hyped up just for this.” The gambler began to walk as he extended a hand for ITrapped to take.

The hacker paused before taking their hand with his own gloved one.

“You better not make me regret trusting you blindly, Shades.”

“I promise, you’ll love what I have planned. I think it fits your style!”

The two began to move away from the lights of the casino, instead the lights of shops and night life businesses lit their path. 

Chance hummed softly as he led the way down the main street, “Are you a fan of music?”

ITrapped perked up at the notion whilst trying to hide his interest, eyes trained on the floor to avoid eye contact. Chance saw this though, he grinned in fact.

“Do you find liking music that embarrassing??”

ITrapped snapped his head in Chance’s direction, “I- I do not. I’m offended you’d think such things.”

The gambler shrugged and used their free hand to adjust their glasses, “One doesn’t flinch unless caught, my friend.” He looked at ITrapped, “I’m just sayin. What even about it is so embarrassing? It’s just music.”

The Ice Prince grumbled, thinly veiled playfulness crossed his expression, “What’s it to ya?”

“I would really like to know more about you!!” Chance took ITrapped’s hand in both of his as if to beg, “You haven’t said much to poor ol’ me.”

“Perhaps I don’t give my personal information to beggars.” He looked away from Chance to indicate refusal. The move should’ve deterred them, but this was a gamble Chance was willing to try.

“I’m betting I’ll get you to tell me about yourself eventually.”

ITrapped raised an eyebrow, “So it’s a bet now, huh?”

Chance nodded, “With Lady Luck on my side, no way I lose.”

The hacker scoffed, amused by his resolve, “We’ll see about that.”

About a block back, Chance had told ITrapped to close his eyes.

To this request, ITrapped called Chance an idiot and that he would not be crossing the street blind.

And of course, the Ice King could only end up in one way, with the gambler wrapped around him like an anaconda blinding him since he wouldn’t do it himself.

Struggle was futile.

“Chance, I swear to god, if we fall!!!”

 “I got this covered, promise!” His confidence was astounding.

Bang

“OW- FUCK.”

“Sorry! That was a pole, but we’re here now!”

With a throbbing nose and adjusting vision, ITrapped found himself in front of a jazz bar. 

The front was decorated with neon lights and a few plants that seemed to have been here a long time. Posters from decades past remained tattered and unreadable.

ITrapped hadn’t been to one of these places in ages. He typically  remained cooped up due to work or whatever else. These sorts of hole-in-the-wall places were saved for celebration.

Nostalgia hit him like a wave.

“Good choice?” Chance smiled, evidently worried Trap wouldn’t like it. ITrapped simply sighed.

He is a good gambler after all.

“It’s perfect.” He admitted, bowing his head slightly essentially admitting defeat.

Chance sighed in relief, the tension in his body leaving them as they silently celebrated behind ITrapped’s back.

“Shall we?”

The hacker nodded, “Of course.”

Inside the establishment, the air was a calm ever flowing sense of comfortability. Tables were filled with mostly couples. Eyes were glued to the stage where a jazz ensemble was playing hypnotizing tunes with a clarity and chaos unheard in any other genre. 

The duo sat at a table decorated with a small vase containing roses and rose petals all over the cream table cloth. The hacker paused whilst scanning the scene and mumbled to himself, “This is… romantic.”

His eyes drifted around the establishment before landing onto signs posted on a cork board that read: ‘Couples night’.

Oh.

Wait.

WAIT???

ITrapped immediately snapped his head in Chance’s direction. 

Was this-? Was he? Is it possible that-?

A face of disbelief crossed the Trap’s face, a feeling so strong he couldn’t even find it in himself to hide his true and utter shock.

This felt like a silent confession. This guy was acting like it was an average day.

What could possibly be wrong with them? Doing it like this? ITrapped was a lot of things, but he was also perceptive. The roses, the music questions, the couples night… Was this his attempt at impressing him?

“Was- this intentional…?” ITrapped’s voice came out a little hushed and shaky as he gestured to the roses.

“What do you mean?” 

Holy shit this guy’s clueless.

Chance seemed to be oblivious up till ITrapped gestured to the fliers. 

In fact, his panic didn’t seem to set in until he finally looked at the table properly himself as if he hadn’t been sitting there for some time. The gambler was a mess mumbling incoherently.

Is this strategic or are they genuinely idiotic enough to have missed a detail like this.

“I swear this isn’t supposed to be a surprise… you know! It’s not like that I swear!! I didn’t- I don’t-”

A faded red color crept onto their face as Chance continued to try to explain away the decor and supposed coincidences.

“I didn’t mean-! Augh!” For having a supposedly permanent poker face, this was the most flustered ITrapped had seen Chance thus far. The sight was a little amusing, but the hacker was far too taken aback by the situation himself that he couldn’t take any amusement in it. He just stared blankly, eyes slightly widened as he watched Chance squirm.

ITrapped sighed whilst attempting regaining his bearings, “It’s ok. It’s ok. I get it, I get it. You didn’t realize.”

Chance covered their face with their fedora, “I really didn’t mean for this- I just wanted to show you somewhere I like to come- I didn’t check their schedule- I swear-!!”

The two finally made eye contact after what seemed to be a few minutes of torture and embarassment, a silence stretching further than it should’ve creating an awkward tension. ITrapped kept his relatively blank expression while Chance stared back with his embarrassed and frazzled one.

The silence made the gap large.

No words.

Then they both laughed. 

Whether it was from the absurdity of the situation or over how they both reacted, they just laughed.

The simplicity of such a small, human mistake and the implications of their get together. It was all so ridiculous.

The cold in ITrapped’s heart thawed and any aching pains he held onto disappeared for the moment. The blush on Chance’s face remained slightly, but his worry seemed to fade with each second they giggled like children.

“God, I’m an idiot.” Chance adjusted his fedora, his smile evident with heavy breaths to recoup from the shared laughter. ITrapped sighed trying to contain another wave of laughter, “Yeah, you are, idiot.”

The sounds of the jazz accompanied by the soft chatter gave way to a perfect atmosphere. The two had a little dinner, a shared dish between the two since ITrapped claimed not to be very hungry. It was well known between Ellernate and Caleb that Trap didn’t like eating much in general, they made fun of him whenever he had small portions. Chance didn’t seem to mind or notice.

“Y’know, I play classical piano. My parents thought it was a classy instrument, so they got me lessons when I was younger. I don’t know how these jazz pianists can just… make up music as they go.” Chance was focused on the stage as ITrapped attempted to subtly look them up and down and study their face.

He was so carefree, head against his hand gazing at the musicians. There was a new feeling there, one ITrapped hadn’t seen from them anywhere besides maybe the gambling tables.

Longing?

“The key is work, after that it’s just instinct built from years of practice. This is a skill not just a talent.” ITrapped sipped his water.

“If only all of us were born with talent. Then more beautiful music could be heard.” Chance suggested, swirling his cup in his hand.

ITrapped lowered his head, “Then it wouldn’t be special anymore.. The time it takes to master is what makes us musicians so unique.”

The gambler thought and agreed after a moment, the light of the stage bouncing off his glasses.

“Perhaps you could play for me someday.” ITrapped finally turned his attention away from Chance, also watching the movements of the artists, waiters, and people surrounding them. 

Chance smiled wider, “I’d love to, and you have to play for me as well.”

I didn’t-

“I never said I played an instrument.” ITrapped looked at the gambler, the smug smile finally having made its return. Great, I must’ve slipped up somewhere. They’re detailed, I’ll give them that.

“Just because you didn’t entirelyyy admit it, doesn’t mean I don’t now know.” Chance met ITrapped’s eyes, “I just want to know which instrument.”

“What did I say about my personal information?” ITrapped raised an eyebrow.

A chuckle slipped from Chance, “What did I say about my bet?” They shrugged, “The house always wins.” The sarcasm in their voice raised back a sense of challenge, as if they were practically begging ITrapped to compete with them.

Trap sighed, “Well-”

Chance suddenly sat up straight, his line of sight directed elsewhere in the bar, but seemingly not trying to react. The air shifted in seconds.

“Chance…?” ITrapped confusedly looked them up and down before turning to follow what they could possibly be looking at.

A few well dressed individuals seemed to enter the bar. To the untrained eye, they looked like average bar goers, but ITrapped knew different.

These were no normal guests.

Mafia underlings.

Judging by the tension in Chance’s body language, this could get messy really quickly.

What the fuck did I get myself into?

Chapter Text

Play dumb.

“Chance, are you alright? What are you looking at?” ITrapped blinked a few times and searched around behind him to feign innocence. 

As the hacker went to turn entirely, Chance stopped him, a gentle yet firm hand sat on Trap’s shoulder, though the movement rushed and worried.

“Don’t look back.” His voice was serious, “We need to leave.”

As much as ITrapped wasn’t scared of a couple goons, he had to let Chance lead here. No average Robloxian would be totally calm in a mafia situation, plus, if ITrapped had worked with this group before, they’d know him and possibly blow his cover.

He desperately wanted to take control of the situation, the uncertainty bugged him too much.

Though that begs the question.

What connection could Chance possibly have to the mafia???

In all the notes the hacker had taken about them, he never once recalled anything about working with the mafia. Plus, his fear indicated bad blood.

What did he even do to them?

Chance tossed some bills on the table, probably more than the meal even cost, before quickly getting ITrapped up and moving him whilst following behind. 

Ducking between filled tables, the two quietly made their way bit by bit towards the door.

Those mafia men were definitely looking around the dining floor. The group had split up and began surveying as they shuffled by. This was an active hunt, and it seems like the two of them were unlucky enough to walk right into their snare. 

Chance had wrapped his arm around ITrapped, seemingly gently pushing his head to keep it down whilst also creating a protective hold. Trap genuinely wondered if Chance would actually face the danger if they had no choice.

They were cocky enough to do so. To fight back even.

If anything, he was about to find out.

Doors now in reach, the two shuffled out into the night air. Chance’s body language remained calm. Their poker face at work.

“Chance what-“ ITrapped began as Chance began shuffling them both down the sidewalk towards the direction of the casino. They were wasting no time at all.

Chance winced, “I’ll tell you everything once we’re safe- just- let’s make it clear- I did something a liitttlleee over my head.”

“Pff, when have you not?” The hacker chuckled softly as the gambler’s body language softened a smidge. Chance chuckled at the comment, “Fair. I guess this is a level beyond my average though. So prepare to be amazed.”

“I’m always amazed in many ways with you, Shades.”

Not necessarily a wrong statement. Chance was a remarkable individual after all.

There were many reasons to be amazed, but the biggest reason ITrapped could conjure was along the lines of how he was amazed Chance was still kicking and not homeless with how risky he loved being.

A mystery for the universe indeed.

Each step became less worried as the two vacated the area, though Chance’s arm remained around ITrapped, as if worried and prepared. Their breathing remained short, hiding despite being out in the open. 

They already knew what to be ready for. ITrapped figured it out as well. In fact, he could sense the danger as the two prepared to pass an alleyway.

This was a looming presence, but he didn’t say anything.

He’d just have to make sure they both got out unscathed. The Ice Prince had put a lot of effort into his look anyway, to have it be ruined would be frustrating. 

I can’t let any mafia cut off my access to the key.

Out of nowhere…

Two figures sprang from a parked van, shoving the two off their balance and into the alley with a thud.

The fall mostly shot pain up ITrapped’s back, which wasn’t exactly pleasant due to his current fragile condition. His side now throbbed again and the pain in his heart sizzled.

Chance’s hold on him lightened the fall, however.

Whoever this is will pay for that.

“I would’ve never expected to find you here, Chance.”

A deep voice rang into the silence, one without emotion, one built to speak as it killed with no mercy. Chance had slowly pulled themself at least sitting, attempting to keep ITrapped behind them.

“They say I’m quite the unexpected fellow, eh Sonnellino?”

Sonnellino… the Sonnellino family.

This was a name Trap knew. He wasn’t sure what to make of recognizing such a title. On one hand, he knew them. They had done business in the past with some of the stolen goods his trio was in possession of. On the other hand, they knew him at some point.

ITrapped couldn’t be sure if Don would even remember him well, but this could be a mission ending situation. If they called him out by name, it would be difficult to explain away. 

Once again, Chance wasn’t a rock.

Plus, the Sonnellinos weren’t the type to hold back. A mission risk and a physical risk.

How fun.

“I am not here to banter, Chance. You know exactly what my goal is here.” The tall figure stepped forward enough to cast a shadow over the two, his tall and muscular figure being used as an intimidation tactic. Anyone else would’ve folded.

Chance was not just anyone.

“Should’ve just rigged the game a little better.” The gambler scoffed, finally going to stand as they helped up ITrapped. His tone was far too confident for the situation. The four underlings from the bar blocked the street access exit. “Maybe the game wanted me to win.”

“Chance, give me back what is mine. Final warning.” The mob boss reached a hand into his coat, threatening further action without hesitation.

ITrapped didn’t know what to do or say. Perhaps stepping in the middle of this was a bad idea, but he wouldn’t let Chance die. He couldn’t. 

Not till he had his key…

Don’s grip on the weapon he was hiding tightened. In the next 10 seconds no doubt.

Perhaps if he used his panel without Chance looking.

The hacker raised a ha-

“Think fast !!”

The area erupted into a cloud of smoke. Chance grabbed ITrapped’s hand, his grip tight and pulling, running down further into the alley, other hand on his fedora.

“What was that???” ITrapped screamed confused over the commotion of the mafia behind them. 

Chance’s shit eating grin was wider than it had ever been, “I had some smoke bombs in my pocket from last time! What luck, huh!?”

“Last time!?,” ITrapped’s brows furrowed, “Chance, why in the FUCK do you have smoke bombs?!?”

The gun fire began. 

It was obvious the men were having a hard time seeing due to the smoke lingering in the air, but it didn’t slow their pursuit. Some of the underlings were seemingly shooting blindly to even try to lightly graze one of them, but it proved difficult due to forgotten items like furniture dressing the alley.

Dashing around debris, Chance almost tripped several times, but his chase never slowed.

Both of their breathing was heavy and desperate, adrenaline filled their veins.

For the first time since they’ve met, ITrapped was thoroughly stressed. 

It was like a heist.

He could almost hear his friends running from the chaos moving as a unit.

“Think any Admins made it yet?” 

“Pff, no shot. Let’s just get out quick.”

“Aye aye, cap’n America.”

“Fuck off, they’re great headphones.”

“Sure thing, Nate.”

Now he held on tightly to a firecracker of a man leading the way. They were sloppy, not as prepared and always relying on the world to do things for him. A stark contrast from his average group.

Clink.

Bullets connect with metal and heavy footsteps across concrete. The two dashed around corners trying to find an exit, but the Sonnellinos were gaining on them. 

ITrapped knew they needed a different strategy.

“Chance, I have an idea.” His voice was steady, hardly loud enough in the chaos, but commanding enough to sound confident. Chance glanced in ITrapped’s direction. They didn’t hesitate, “All you!” 

“Thanks. Now, you think fast.” ITrapped let go of Chance’s hand.

“Wait wha-”

The hacker shoved Chance with force into one of the alleys to get them out of sight. The sound they made on impact caused a chuckle out of Trap. He found it just a tiny bit funny.

If he could manage it, ITrapped would try to throw the Mafia off their tails with simple distraction and teleport back to Chance for them both to leave. That way they’re safe, his mission is safe and his cover won’t be blown. 

Rounding a corner, ITrapped could hear the approaching footsteps running past where Chance had been ragdolled. 

Good they didn’t see them. Now I gotta think of a distraction…

Many ideas came to mind, but he needed something that could be fixed quickly. Nothing extremely destructive.

Trap looked behind him to ensure he was not being followed before he rounded another corner and-

SLAM.

The hacker stumbled back not expecting to run into anyone especially at full speed. His head hurt and his vision was blurry, but he recognized the figure in front of him.

Don stood there tall and menacing, gun in one hand.

Though, he didn’t shoot.

ITrapped stood there shocked, eyes widened. The two made eye contact and shared a long silence.

Fuck.

Perhaps the guy wouldn’t recognize him. Perhaps ITrapped had his hood up all the time when they met and he never looked close enough to know. Perhaps-

“This ain’t real, is it?” The mob boss tilted his head to one side, just as dumbfounded as the hacker it seemed, “Of all folks, I wouldn’t have expected you, hacker.”

Damnit.

“You’re not the only one with jobs to fulfill, Sonnellino.” ITrapped regained his almost elegant posture as he dusted himself off and fixed his crown, the venom seeping back into his voice. It had been a while since he spoke to someone that he didn’t need to pretend around.

“You gots something with that man, eh?” Don questioned, “What could some rich guy have that matters to you so much? Your folks got all those limiteds and valuables.”

“I have no reason to inform you. All I ask is you stay out of my way.” 

Don clicked his tongue, clearly unpleased, “Y’know I can’t just do that. We’ve been partners before, Trap, but business is business.”

Mafia are selfish creatures.

ITrapped sighed, annoyed with this turnout, “Let me finish my mission, then you can have that idiot all you want. I’m not protecting him. I need him for now. After that, I don’t give a shit what you do. It’s not my business.”

The mafia boss thought to himself, causing a brief silence. ITrapped wasn’t sure if Sonnellino would care or not, but he would not let this mishap ruin everything. If he disagreed, there would be hell to pay.

Don sighed, almost disappointed with the situation, perhaps having weighed the pros and cons.

“Fine, but this is only a favor with limited time.” The mob boss adjusted his fedora, “Better go save your friend before my goons get to him first. Then our favor starts.” A sinister smile crossed his face.

Bastard. Of course there’d be a catch.

“Whatever.” ITrapped turned to move back into the alley, believing this conversation no longer deserved his attention.

Wild animals.

“Don’t take too long. If you do, we’ll kill him first.” That voice called after the hacker, but he was no longer listening. Instead he focused now on running towards Chance. The goons were no longer running around like headless chicken. Random gunfire was no longer heard.

They couldn’t have been found yet, right?

ITrapped dashed around corners and slowed as he reached the spot they were thrown.

“Chance…!!!” ITrapped whisper shouted his head darting around to spot any clue of them.

Silence. Nothing.

“Chance!?” He wasn’t found was he…?

Suddenly, the gambler’s head appeared, popping out of some boxes delayed. The hacker moved calmly over, gliding like ghost to his target. That mask of his slipped right back on.

Almost as if it were real.

“I was able to lead them away. Now, I know how to get out of this, but you can’t look and you can’t ask questions, got it?” ITrapped adjusted his gloves as Chance fully stood, “Gotcha. Won’t peek, won’t ask… though I am curious-”

“Chance.”

“Alright, alright! I’m closing my eyes.”

After a minute and ensuring Chance couldn’t see, ITrapped opened his panel, the screen clear now with the fixes before loading up the teleport menu. He couldn’t think of an exact place to teleport… Had to be out of sight of the public so they wouldn’t be asked questions or noticed.

Got it.

The hacker put a gentle hand on Chance’s shoulder before submitting the command. 

Teleport Successful.

As easy as before, the two appeared on the roof of the casino, a breeze now gently pushing against their faces.

Once ITrapped was sure there were no traces of the Admin panel in sight, he spoke, “Okay, open your eyes.”

Chance looked up and around. He seemed relieved at first, but this didn’t last long.

No, his expression held heavy confusion. He was thrown off. Their poker face held together no longer.

“Wait… how did we… how did you-??”

“Eh eh eh,” ITrapped pressed his pointer finger to their mouth, silencing them immediately, “You promised me. No questions.”

Their shock was clear and cut, but Chance didn’t say anything. Usually by now they would’ve cracked a ridiculous joke or made a comment about his luck or close call or something, but no.

He remained frazzled while looking around the vastness of the city.

Unusual .

“Now, perhaps I can clean you up? Sorry for the push.” ITrapped muttered while surveying the damage to Chance’s appearance. He was covered in a bit of dirt and grime including in his hair, his outfit now completely wrinkled and dirty from the chase as well as some cuts on his face probably from the impact.

Nothing too major, but one could tell they went through something.

Perhaps cleaning up would distract them from thinking too hard about how they got up here.

Chance didn’t speak for a second, instead they finally turned their head back to ITrapped, their focus unwavering and staring at him without words.

“O-oh- yeah. Uh… I can get us access to one of the suites to clean up…” The gambler’s voice had lost its cockiness, he seemed to be trying to gather himself, but his tone remained unsure, “You’re… a little banged up too…”

ITrapped blinked. He forgot about the pain and only noticed the stinging all over as the adrenaline wore off with Chance’s words. Huh. No matter. There were more important things now.

He took both of Chance’s hands, and looked at his face, attempting to meet their eyes, “We’re safe now. It’s fine. Now come on.”

The hacker moved swiftly pulling along Chance with little focus on anything else. He attempted to lighten things up. He attempted to pretend everything was fine. He thought it was, at least for now.

Chance said nothing.

The two left the roof, a seed of doubt blooming somewhere dark.

Chapter Text

Every bone in his body was ready to give way.

The exercise that happened during the mafia chase had really done a number on the hacker. Now that he was finally alone in one of the most well taken care of bathrooms he’d ever seen, his body was failing him. 

Each breath was a shaky, agonizing reminder that he was still alive. Like a taunt.

He was still alive and suffering.

Alive and alo… not quite.

ITrapped gripped both sides of the sink in front of him to gain some stability, everything about him now disheveled. The sight of his own flesh disgusted him.

The sight of his weakness seared into his mind.

The fact was that he was still frustrated.

They escaped with minimal physical damage. 

This should be a good thing, but the way it all turned out was less than ideal.

For the ensured safety of them both, he had to commit to an act that was questionable at best and downright illegal at worst.

Maybe this nausea is part of the stress too.

ITrapped decided to finally properly glance around the bathroom attempting to distract himself from his growing weakness.

The entire room was pristinely cleaned, as if someone spent hours slaving and cleaning each crevice with gentle care. As if this room itself was destined to house someone special.

ITrapped had to admit, it was all quite impressive.

Golden painted towel bar, expensive pre-set toiletries only those with a high enough pay would ever get to use in their lives, not a single speck of grime.

The hacker wasn’t exactly opposed to this kind of atmosphere. His partners never fully understood his expensive taste but he found joy in purchasing highly expensive items.

The ice crown he had been wearing was a pure example of such. Something he bought with his own money.

It was kind of nice to get to wear it daily now.

Slowly, the intense feelings of sickness faded with each detailed description of items around the bathroom, thankfully, he no longer wanted to crawl into a hole and pass away.

Before long, ITrapped pushed himself up using the counter to get moving once more. If he stayed in here too long, Chance would worry. Plus, he said he would tend to the gambler’s wounds, which he would’ve done immediately had they not insisted on his wellbeing first.

“You chased away dangerous people FOR me. Please, go wash up first.” They’d said.

ITrapped took a deep breath, sucking in the pain before moving to shower. The water was pleasant against his skin, though he elected to keep the water quite cool rather than warm. 

After finishing, the hacker dried off with the provided towel and moved to dress himself with the clothes Chance gave him to borrow so they could both wash both of their dirty clothes for the following day’s use.

The smell of fresh linens and clean clothes was comforting. This had made him feel a lot better.

ITrapped slipped on the loose sweater and pants (casino branded of course) as well as his own socks before taking one last look in the mirror whilst drying his hair.

With all the issues going on, he was shocked to be met with his own reflection. A concerning expectation to have indeed.

Probably should not dwell on that nightmare.

A couple deep breaths and he considered himself ready. With hesitance, the hacker turned the doorknob.

ITrapped exited the bathroom and glanced around the large suite. It looked straight out of a movie. Like a house except at the top of a casino and overly expensive.

Chance had said he could spend the night there which ITrapped accepted quickly initially after some false hesitance. Who wouldn’t accept such an offer?

But honestly…

The space seemed far too empty now that he’d stood here alone for even just a moment.

Sure it was within what Trap would consider nice, but he supposed he would always have others to revel in the present with… He missed the constant chaos of sharing a space. He would be quickly reminded that he was not alone, though.

A sound.

The hacker heard a melody drift through the air. A sound so sweet and light it carried through the air with ease.  An unrecognizable tune yet still so nostalgic emitting from an elegant instrument.

Piano music.

ITrapped had eyed the grand piano as the two entered earlier but he supposed it obviously couldn’t play itself. So the only culprit could be…

The large windows of the suite allowed in moonlight to guide the hackers’ slow and steady path towards the music. Each step was another one back into character, ready to play this role with an unwavering commitment.

Step.

This was a step for the mission. One he had to complete without question. An attainable goal he worked so hard to accomplish.

Step

This was a step for his friends. Those two who came back even when they didn’t need to or even necessarily want to. The ones who kept his pride and ego in check while complimenting and boosting his character.

Step

This was a step for himself… he alone who…

Who…

ITrapped who had…

…

Moments passing, Trap had finally reached the source of the noise.

The hacker stopped his walk for a moment to view the scene in front of him. 

Chance had finally decided to remove his suit coat and fedora, leaving him in his messy white button up and dress pants.  The cuts here and there plus the dirt still on him made it look like they lost a fight with a hard hitting alley cat… something that didn’t seem too far off of what they might do for a bet.

However, this messy look of his could never match the elegance they had as they sat at the grand piano. The sight in itself felt conflicting.

Like water, Chance flowed with the music created at his fingertips. This was a passion so heavy and powerful it overtook and filled the room. From the softest of pianos to the loudest of fortes, they had the hacker captivated in a way he had never been before. Or maybe, Trap just never expected something like this from the gambler. 

In all his lack of thinking and inability to hold back, there was a silver lining. This guy’s intentions were always pure.

The ringing of the instrument was sweet.

For a moment, he could’ve sworn he had forgotten to breathe, taken aback by such a complex sound.

He pressed on, standing to the right of the bench watching as Chance continued to play like it was nothing.

As if this burning blaze was just… natural.

It only took a moment for Chance to eye him watching before slowing his playing to a stop, a move that slightly disappointed the hacker.

“Hey… doin alright? You look… better at least.” Chance’s voice was soft in comparison to their normal tone, his posture straightening as he turned from the keys.

“I am well… just… couldn’t help but notice your music display.” Trap tilted his head towards the keys as Chance chuckled and patted the spot next to him on the bench, adjusting themself to give the hacker more room. ITrapped paused for a second.

What am I even thinking?

He decided to oblige and join the gambler on the piano bench, the two now close in proximity.

“I promise I didn’t lie when I said I play.” Chance leaned forward, “That would be a littleee silly to lie about. Y’know, like hiding the instrument a specific someone plays and won’t tell me.”

“Perhaps you don’t deserve to know, silly gambler.” ITrapped scoffed, crossing his arms as Chance returned his fingers to the keys to play a soft background melody. He shook his head, “You don’t strike me as a piano person, at least.”

ITrapped raised an eyebrow, “And what’s that supposed to mean?”

Chance smiled, “Tell me what instrument you play and I’ll maybeeee consider telling you.”

ITrapped elected to keep his eyes down in order to maintain a poised posture, “I’ll always win, gambler.”

Chance laughed softly some more, “Alright, whatever you say. Gimme your hands, Ice.”

“How forward,” ITrapped dryly shot back, a slight jab from earlier in the evening with the jazz club mishap. He held his hands out not sure what to expect before Chance gently took them and began to put them in a playing position. Without gloves, their hands truly met for the first time.

“Geez! Your hands are freezing!!” Chance flinched jokingly as he moved.

The hacker shrugged, “I just have cold hands.”

“These aren’t cold, these are frigid! I miss your gloves somehow.”

“Watch it, I’ll take my hands back.” ITrapped snapped, though he hadn’t pulled back as threatened.

Chance adjusted the hacker’s hands onto the keys in a basic position, every detail was important, even the curve of each finger. 

Why am I letting this happen?

Once Chance pulled back, they nodded, proud of their work, “Now you’re in C hand position on both hands.” 

ITrapped didn’t move his hands and instead held the position as if to cement it.

To remember this detail later. Then, as gentle as morning dew, he pressed down the C, E, and G keys on either hand.

A chord rang out into the silence.

ITrapped sneered, “Hah. One chord. I’ll surpass you in three days time.”

Chance flicked his hand before pausing and shrugging, “I’d like to see you try. Though you are oh so very smart, perhaps you will prove me wrong.”

ITrapped removed his hands from the keys as Chance put his back on to begin playing again, “And you’re so very ridiculous, idiot.” 

The gambler chuckled once more, “You know you love and appreciate me.”

ITrapped gently elbowed Chance, causing them to mess up and laugh, “Whatever you need to tell yourself. Now, can I finally make sure you’re taken care of. A few of these wounds could at least be disinfected.”

“Fine. Fine. Ice Prince’s orders.” 

The two moved over to one of the beds in the suite, Chance sat at the edge of the mattress as ITrapped went through the supplies Chance brought.

The hacker decided to focus on the bigger gashes that remained fresh since the majority were quite small.

It was thanks to them that he didn’t hit his head or anything, so, even as a target, he deserved some care.

ITrapped, with a neutral expression, began to go over some of the cuts and disinfecting, the lingering question finally ready to be answered, “So. Why are there a bunch of mafia men after you?”

Chance seemed to wince, hesitating but committing to the promise to explain, “Well… y’know how the mafia run lots of different rings and businesses?”

ITrapped responded dryly, focused on a larger gash on Chance’s right arm, “Yes… I am aware of the shady business those creatures involve themselves in.”

Oh the irony of those words.

Chance laughed nervously, “Hah… yeah well. I went to one of the gambling rings run by the Sonnellio mafia… for… y’know fun.

May have won something they didn’t expect me to… I guess the game was rigged… and…”

“You took off with it, didn’t you?” ITrapped looked at him, an expression unsurprised.

“…yeaahhhh. Was a hell of a night… but… y’know…” 

ITrapped covered the gash, “What did I say about not chasing adrenaline like an idiot.”

Chance raised their other hand, “In my defense, I didn’t know you yet!!! How was I supposed to know to-“

“Common sense.” Trap stared directly into Chance’s face causing them to shrink under his gaze. 

As he stared, the hacker noticed some blood that had dried trailing down from under their glasses.

“Can I get the blood trail from under your shades?” The Ice Prince asked unmoving, a wet cloth in hand. Chance moved fast with the request, swiping the glasses off their face with a single movement, “Yeah, sorry-“

Golden.

Shimmering.

Of all things, ITrapped couldn’t have expected this.

A pair of eyes as golden as sunlight stared into him, gentle with a hint of…

ITrapped actually couldn’t quite pinpoint what emotion that could be. He felt as if he’d never seen it before. As if it were foreign. It threw him off.

His hands stumbled over each other as he went to clean off the blood from a cut above their eyes.

“I believe this is the first time I’ve seen your eyes.” Trap noted, focusing on keeping his hands steady.

The gambler raised an eyebrow, his eyes watching ITrapped as he worked, “Is that a bad thing?”

“No, I’ve just noticed their unique color.” Trap responded flatly as he dried the spot he wiped.

The gambler cooed, wanting to move to make a statement, but remained still, “Whattt, you like?”

“Put your shades back on.” The hacker shoved Chance’s shades back in their direction, putting a little force into the movement feigning frustration, but Chance hesitated. Instead, he hung his sunglasses on his shirt as ITrapped cleaned the dirt off the cuts on the side Chance fell on. Trap said nothing about it. He didn’t want to. He couldn’t.

Silence filled the space between the two for a moment. Not awkward, just comfortable.

As if this was normal.

The clash of warm and cold. The soft and dim lighting provided from the outside. The detailed work of someone who long forgot what anything meant. The world felt still.

Familiar.

Then, just as quickly as it began, it ended.

The hacker finished his handy work and directed Chance to take some kind of shower and go wash off. The gambler hadn’t argued long, instead disappearing into the bathroom without much protest, waving slowly to Trap as they went.

Trap watched them go, eyes trained on them like a hawk on a mouse, as he put down all the cleaning supplies.

The lingering touch of Chance’s skin remained on ITrapped’s finger tips. That festering flame in actuality. A small reminder that the gambler was not some illusion or falsehood. Not just anyone anymore.

Nothing had felt real since the jailbreak, but somehow this shades wearing, mafia escaping, obsessive gambling moron was grounding him. 

Of ALL people. Them??? 

It has been some time now… no moves have been made towards finding the key. Why wasn’t he being faster on this?

The sooner he could find Nate and free Caleb, the better. So why?

Why was he taking his time like this? Why was he prolonging this? 

He should’ve been surveying the casino in his downtime. Looking for possibilities. Trying to get information out of every conversation and glance. That was how he played the game. That was how someone like him should operate. Chance was nothing more than an obstacle to block him from the ultimate goal. 

So why did they feel so real just now?

After doing such jobs for so long, he’d never felt this attached to a mission. At first, ITrapped thought it might be because of the missing presence of his closest friends, but no. There were feelings beyond that. ITrapped couldn’t understand it in himself. He just couldn’t.

He first let this illness get to him, and now, just about any idiot seemed able to walk into his life and screw everything up.

The hacker balled his fists, frustration seeping into his exhausted mind. 

There was no one before this who made him frazzled in this way. 

And the worst part?

He reveled in it. 

Soaked in every word, every touch, every glance. The little things burned into his skin, branding him with their taunts and disgusting warmth. That mark would bleed and sizzle. It would never leave him.

Why was he so useless?

The self deprecating thoughts bubbled up in that moment of insecurity, ITrapped’s expression twisting into something hurt. He’d always found himself masking his guilt, even around his partners, but now, it bled out like a reopened scar. 

Pure vulnerability.

That did it. That fucker did it.

This is Chance’s fault.

He couldn’t have felt this way beforehand. Not before all of tonight.

The bar, the chase, the silence of a room with only their attendance. It all led to this. Was this part of their plan? Did Chance secretly work against him to try to confuse ITrapped?

He hated feeling like this.

He hated the way Chance made him feel.

The hacker winced.

A sharp pain cut through his body, originating at the heart, so suddenly he fell to the ground.

Not now…

Please.

ITrapped couldn’t get up.

He tried and tried, but his legs wouldn’t listen. His lungs sealed in protest. His body tremored and quaked. A flare up. The cruelest of its kind. Trap had let his guard down, so his body tore him to shreds. A punishment for not paying attention. A correction for not listening to it.

He shouldn’t have gone out tonight.

The taste of iron lingered in his mouth as he tried to move, to do anything. The world blurred as the hacker struggled. 

Desperate.

Crawling.

Pathetic.

Pitiful.

He couldn’t even scream if he wanted to.

Everything ached and bled. Like his insides were being ripped out one by one.

Approaching footsteps.

“T̶r̶a̶p̶!̶?̶!̶?̶”

His chest gave one more cruel throb.

Then…

Thud.

Something wrapped around him.

Chapter Text

ITrapped could hardly tell what was going on.

He’d heard panic as someone cradled his head and held him against them, their heart beat raised and racing.

They were talking. Asking questions.

The pounding in his head disallowed him from properly understanding what he’d been asked, but he still did his best to respond. At least, he hoped words came out.

The hacker recalled insisting against a hospital. He remembered speaking weak words of comfort despite his own sorry state. He could hear his own cracking voice.

Then, ITrapped remembered being lifted, the weight of his body disappearing with the strength of the individual that moved him. The destination was somewhere plush and comfortable against his aching back. Likely a bed.

Beyond that he couldn’t be completely sure. 

Different sounds and movements didn’t register anymore. His head was spinning so hard he was half convinced he was in some sort of sick amusement park ride.

The world no longer made sense, so he lingered in his thoughts…

He let his exhaustion take him.

The scent of soft grass and a cool summer breeze. 

“I—-, what are you doing?” She called.

His head turned slightly, strands of unkempt hair falling into his field of vision, just barely blocking her face, nothing else.

“I’m walking.” He said frankly, sensing her annoyed feelings from her body language and tone of voice. Clamped fists and stiff posture, like any child her age.

“--- says you’re not allowed to go far!”

IT-a-ped sighed and rolled his eyes, “And what’re you gonna do about it?”

She put her hands on her hips, “I’ll drag you back!”

“Sure…” A light, teasing voice. Something as simple as that would tick her off, he knew that about her as much as she wouldn’t admit it. Unsurprisingly, his taunt worked perfectly. She stomped forward, “Come on !!”

“Nah.”

“Come- on!!!”

“Hah. No.”

“I—-!!!”

After the bickering, when the two finally calmed, they settled in the grass and stared into the sky. She held onto her frustration for a while, but Trap quickly dispelled it as he began talking. Even if they teased and pushed, they had common ground.

It was just how they were.

ITrapped wouldn’t have

                                        Had it any 

                                                          Other way.

The light of the morning sun woke ITrapped up, his head still a smidgen out of sorts and slowly recovering. His body ached as a reminder of the night, a soft warmth lay against his leg and covers lay wrapped around his figure to preserve heat.

How did I even end up here…?

Memories from his collapse began to flood in like a tidal wave, though their clarity still remained muddied. It was only a second before the sensations he was feeling clicked in his brain.

ITrapped almost jumped out of his skin when he saw the hunched body kneeling against the bed.

Chance, the over-caring idiot that they were, had fallen asleep next to the bed whilst still partially on it. They must’ve fallen asleep after watching over him.

Hm.

ITrapped sighed, pausing before he finally began to slowly shuffle his way out of the bed without disturbing Chance. His movements were slow and precise in order to not wake the gambler. If they even stirred slightly, the motion would cease before resuming once more.

He had to go somewhere.

Panic bloomed in Trap’s chest and the close proximity of his so-called target didn’t help the spark. After slipping from under the covers, the hacker carefully scooted off the bed, feet landing softly against the floor before he sighed in relief. The gambler did not stir.

Leaving the room, he’d noticed his and Chance’s clothes and accessories from the night laid out on the couch pristinely cleaned. As comfortable as the clothes he had been given were, Trap did not want to walk out of the casino in glorified pajamas, so he elected to change.

He was disorganized and quick as he entered the bathroom, a desperation to leave clawing out of every decision he made. His mind was focused on the individual movements that he committed to. One sleeve. Other sleeve. Pants. Socks. Shoes. Hair. Crown.

The bathroom- no- the casino itself felt suffocating to be in.

After finishing, the hacker dashed around the suite before snatching a pen and notepaper and removing his gloves to write. Of course he would be setting himself up to come back later that day… but he knew Chance would be worried if he just disappeared no question.

As previously thought, he would prefer not to find Chance at his doorstep one night.

On the notepad, he scribbled something quick, along the lines of, ‘Be right back.’ And ‘I’m ok’.

Once he finished a shaky message, the hacker tossed down the note on the bedside table and turned to leave. 

Chance stirred, ITrapped paused.

A friend wouldn’t leave their friend like that, right?

Trap almost wished he didn’t care.

For the mission, that is.

He’d slap Caleb once he saw him again. “Get caught again, and I’m not saving you.”

ITrapped grumbled and grit his teeth before he turned and begrudgingly made his way over to the slumbering figure, carefully scanning them and their sleeping position. 

Chance’s hair was entirely messed up, as if he had run his hand through it one too many times out of stress. He seemed to be peaceful despite the array of emotions they might’ve gone through the night before, the rest might’ve been needed. In fact, with all the late nights the two indulged in, ITrapped wasn’t sure if they ever really did sleep. They always seemed to continue gambling long after he would leave. 

Honestly, it wouldn’t be out of character for them to run on gambling highs all day. Though, after their conversation about indulging in unhealthy habits, Trap assumed he wasn’t breaking promises behind closed doors.

The hacker sighed, putting his arms under the warm body and using his legs to lift. The health episode didn’t leave him with a lot of strength, so initially he struggled, but the job was completed without shaking them too much. He successfully lifted Chance onto the bed, carefully lifted the comforter from the opposite end, and laid it down over them.

Hm. I thought he would wake up.

ITrapped’s eyes lingered on Chance’s face, body already partially turning to leave, but he didn’t move for a moment. The room remained still. No one was watching. No eyes to judge or act to. Not even theirs as they remained closed tightly in deep sleep.

A gentle, chilled hand moved the strands of hair away from the gambler’s face. The touch felt like fire on ITrapped’s finger tips, just as any other touch from Chance felt, but this was different. 

It was chosen. There was no flinch.

The hacker didn’t think as he slipped his gloves back on. He elected to leave quietly.

The streets of the city were calmed now in the light of the morning. Most robloxians were heading on to work, the children to schools. Seasons have changed since this started. The fall weather was starting to seep in and create a slight chill.

ITrapped stood like a lost kitten for a moment on the sidewalk in front of the casino. The world was disorienting at best and he didn’t want to find his way home. 

The memories that littered that space weren’t ones he wanted to face currently anyways.

So he let himself walk.

At first the direction was random, wherever his legs decided to take him, but it slowly changed.

The direction became familiar. 

The park in the city hadn’t moved (obviously), its normally green vegetation becoming shades of orange and brown in preparation of the cold months. The infrastructure was in desperate need of repairs, so many kids would trip over uneven parts of the sidewalk and the road was cracked with age. It’s not one of the things the admins would focus on though.

They have “better” things to do.

Shops and stores lined the blocks, their signs flickering to life in the early hours. The city was waking up slowly.

Once the hacker had walked the distance expected, he found himself stopping at an apartment complex, his hand hovering over the button to buzz in.

He almost didn’t feel ready.

Buzz

“Apartment 204, please.” ITrapped’s voice came cracked from lack of usage.

A voice came through the small intercom after a moment, soft and confused by the early ring. “Hello?”

“Hey, Tree…” ITrapped didn’t even finish his sentence before the receiving end hung up. 

The guy was stunned, having not expected such a turn of events. 

Did he just…?

He stood there quietly, not really sure what to make of the situation now… until a familiar antler’d friend of his came shooting down the stairs and pushing open the doors.

“ITrapped!!!” His voice was cheerful as he tackled the quiet figure, the two embracing closely for an extended silence, though one couldn’t contain his excitement, “I feel like it’s been forever…!”

“It… really has. It’s my fault.” ITrapped looked down as they separated.

For all this time, fixated on his mission, he’d essentially kept his friend completely in the dark, ghosted his messages and disappeared for months on end and now appeared on his doorstep in a state of confusion.

That was not exactly amazing friend etiquette. 

Yet, somehow, LonelyTree didn’t seem to care. The hacker would argue that was a bad habit of his, excusing things like that, but for now, he was just relieved to see a familiar face.

“I’m sure you had a good reason. We can talk about it sometime.” Ly’s voice remained soft, nonjudgemental, as he put a hand on the ice king’s shoulder, “Is something wrong?”

“How could you tell??” ITrapped muttered softly, refusing to fully make eye contact. 

LonelyTree shook his head, “Maybe your frazzled expression gave it away, genius.”

“I’m not that frazzled, give me a fucking break.”

LonelyTree turned back towards the doors, “I’m leaving now.”

“OKAY, hey wait a minute- Yeah- fuck- ok something is… wrong I guess.” The hacker reached out but didn’t touch Tree at all. The deer turned and crossed his arms teasingly, a smirk appearing and disappearing on his face when he saw Trap’s defeat. 

ITrapped sighed, “Can we just… talk…?”

The two made their way back over to the city’s park, finding solace on a bench on one of the side paths. For a moment, they watched robloxians go by and sat silently in the fresh air.

They would do this as kids too, despite the energy Trap had when he was younger, he always found himself slowing down next to LonelyTree.

They would watch people for hours, talk about things that didn’t matter.

ITrapped wouldn’t have wanted it any other….

Wait.

LonelyTree spoke up, “So, what’s up?”

As much as he wanted to, ITrapped couldn’t say everything. It physically wouldn’t slip out either way.

So he summarized, extremely vaguely.

He mentioned there was something he needed desperately to get Caleb out of some trouble. How the hacking work went overboard. How he spent ages looking for that thing. The illness. Then, a brief description of Chance without mentioning names. ITrapped explained their interactions and how the previous night went.

He winced each time he spoke a truth, so he tried to hide and cover most of the extremely vulnerable moments. LonelyTree listened with care and sat ready with words. He never overreacted or freaked out. ITrapped appreciated that fact about him.

After silence, the deer spoke softly,

“This plan sounds overly convoluted. How deep are you all in trouble?”

ITrapped fumbled with his crown in his lap, “Lets just say… it’s quite bad.” LonelyTree shook his head, his eyes focused ahead on the families around the area, “And this gambler guy. How do you even plan to get out of this without somehow breaking his heart? He seems to like your company.”

Shit… I hadn’t thought of that.

“Did you even think about tha-”

“I DID. I HAVE IT PLANNED OUT.” ITrapped cut in, a little too agitated and loud for comfort, “Somewhere… I think.”

“Unless, you never planned on leaving?” Ly inquired, leaning forward into the hacker’s space. ITrapped glared, “The fuck is that supposed to mean?”

“How many people do you let touch you? Be honest.”

Crickets between them.

ITrapped rolled his eyes, “I have to let them if I want them to trust me. I’ll have to figure it out once the deed is done.”

LonelyTree sighed, “And you won’t even think about a hospital in all this?”

ITrapped shook his head. A resolute movement.

“You’re doing way too much for someone who might actively have a dangerous chronic illness…” Ly gripped the edges of the bench as he leaned forward again, his legs kicking the ground below, “I’m not going to try to convince you otherwise though.”

I don’t know why I’m not surprised.

“I trust your judgement. I trust you. Even if you’re stubborn.” He said quietly. ITrapped kept his eyes down.

Convince me differently.

“Just, try not to die okay? If you have another flare up, please call me.” The deer lightly nudged his friend, Trap smiling a little and chuckling at the sensation, “Sure, I can do that while I’m seizing.”

The air was a lot lighter after that.

It was just like childhood. Two friends who could tell each other anything.

‘I trust your judgement. I trust you.’

If only things were that simple.

A calming conversation ended with LonelyTree’s need to head on out for a pre-planned event. The pair of friends hugged once more before the deer disappeared into the morning crowds with a promise to contact soon. 

Now left alone at the entrance of the park, ITrapped had only one place to go back to.

Arriving back at the casino, ITrapped took a deep breath arriving at the door.

Barely five steps in, that familiar figure barreled over.

“Oh god oh god, you’re back- thank goodness.” Chance had booked it over as if he was getting chased, now back in suit attire and missing shades, their golden eyes gleaming in the lights. 

His worry was still a little amusing.

“Chance-”

Trap didn’t even get the moment to explain himself. Instead, he was grabbed by the hand and essentially dragged into an elevator, an urgency in Chance’s step.

God, he must’ve been panicking since the moment he woke up.

The gambler was mumbling incoherently, his words spinning into circles digging a deeper hole for his psyche. ITrapped was almost overwhelmed by how fast they were going, unable to cut in anywhere or get a word in.

“You need rest… you were supposed to rest not leave…you still look a little pale…I don’t even know where you went… I can get you medicine… I know you said no hospital but…”

“Chance!!” ITrapped grabbed them by their upper arms, getting in their line of view to keep their focus. The hacker laughed a little, “I’m alright! Good god. Breathe for me.”

Chance blinked before releasing the tension in his body, grounded by ITrapped’s hold, “Sorry- just- last night I came out… you looked like you were in so much pain…”

“I have a chronic illness, have since childhood. I know how to handle it, I promise.” The hacker smiled a little, meeting the gambler’s eyes, “And where are your shades, shades?”

Chance put a hand to his face, “Shit… didn’t even realize.”

ITrapped began laughing softly at the frazzled expression on Chance’s face, their blush and embarrassment only growing, “I was really worried, Trap! I hardly know anything about you, especially medical history, so I wasn’t sure what to do…”

They were obviously genuine in their worry, this made the hacker think.

‘Unless, you never planned on leaving?’

ITrapped covered his mouth and slowed his laughter, their air now light despite the lingering questions in the air. They both sunk into each other’s company. ITrapped was breathing normally, his anxieties about returning disappearing each second.

Fine, if it’ll calm them down more…

“If it’ll make you feel better, I’ll let you ask two questions about me personally. Asking about my illness counts too though, so be wise with your questions.”

Chance raised an eyebrow almost suspicious of the proposition, “You? King of Ice, letting me ask personal questions?”

ITrapped stepped back and crossed his arms, “This offer has a time limit.”

“Okay okay okay hold on! Wait.” Chance put his hands up, “Let me think.”

For a moment the whirr of the elevator was the only constant in the room. ITrapped watched Chance with precision.

He always bites his lip and tilts his head down when he’s thinking.

Eyes darting.

Those golden eyes.

“Jackpot. I got it.” The gambler took a coin from his pocket and flipped it once, catching it mid air, “First question…”

ITrapped nodded whilst prepping all possible basic family answers.

“What’s something precious to you?”

Huh?

That felt a little out of left field. ITrapped’s posture sunk a bit. 

What could he even say to such a deep question? Chance somehow always surprised him in little ways like this and he still wasn't ever ready. 

The hacker hesitated.

“My friends, I suppose.” An innocent answer with the truth, “What a strange question, Chance…”

He was quite literally here because of them. Surely that’s precious enough.

Chance didn’t miss a beat, “Okay, and why?”

“Why what?” The hacker didn’t understand.

“What is it that you value about your friends? Why do you consider them precious to you?”

The gambler’s normally chill and light hearted smile had faded quickly, in fact, ITrapped was a bit irked  by how quickly they changed the atmosphere. Had he sensed something Trap had missed?

What did they even mean by why?

Why value his own friends? Why wouldn’t they be precious?

The question was ridiculous. ITrapped had his quarrels with Nate and Caleb in the past but they stuck together. They all worked the same trade, needed others to stick by, committed to a life beyond others…

Surely there were more reasons than…

Convenience.

Right? Right??

He had something real with them. Why else would he be out here? Why would he be lying to some rich guy’s face for them if he didn’t care. 

Why go through all the trouble?

The silence was stretching on too long. ITrapped could sense it, Chance was eyeing him but said nothing.

“My friends are precious to me because we lift each other up.” The hacker pushed out. A basic answer and not his best work, but he was working under watchful eyes. 

Chance didn’t say anything and ITrapped refused to look at their face.

The elevator dinged indicating they had reached their target floor.

Chance gently put a hand on ITrapped’s back, leading him silently out the elevator. 

Trap could almost swear he was sweating, but he didn’t lose face. His bored but labored expression didn’t give him away. Chance’s little smile had returned like a switch had flipped.

“What about you, gambler? Hm?” ITrapped teased as they walked down the hallway side by side, “What is precious to you? Your poker chips?”

“Not quite. Though, there’s nothing wrong with a little gambling.” They shrugged.

ITrapped grabbed their arm, removing it from his back and holding onto it instead, “So you’re saying gambling is precious to you? I’m not surprised.”

“Not quite, Ice. I’m just such a deep guy. You’d never guess it.” Chance boasted as if it were some kind of award, his free hand going to his forehead dramatically. 

 ITrapped scoffed, “If it protects your ego, fine, I won’t guess.”

Chance made an overdramatic frown, “Aw, you’re supposed to guess. Come onnnn.”

“Boo-fucking-hoo.”

“Please!!”

Their voices in the hall faded as they shut the suite door behind them.

Chapter Text

The quiet steps of the hacker echoed as he moved quietly around the back halls of the casino. Workers rushed around him, quickly moving towards whatever job they were up to next, but ITrapped didn’t care.

They didn’t question him or ask why he was back there, they knew of him. The closeness he and Chance shared had become notable amongst the staff and they’d often stare as the two shared each other’s company.

It didn’t bother him too much, in fact, it was useful in his search. 

The halls twisted in directions of all kinds, and the hacker had been working on searching them all.

Bit by bit.

He snuck through offices, scoured closets, even bathrooms if deemed necessary.

No one ever questioned him, not that he let most see him sneak. 

Behind hanging paintings, under carpets, the hacker could’ve sworn he’d checked everywhere at this rate. 

Nothing.

Nothing yet at least.

In the beginning, his searches were small and inconsistent. Tiny glances around rooms he’d walk in. Bathroom breaks that lasted too long.

The hacker was consistent if not obsessive, yet he still came up short.

Stepping through the quiet back halls of the casino, ITrapped passed rooms with active games, the drunken cheering muffled by shut doors. Rich people and their activities.

If it’s not here, could it be at the family home?

Turning into a new hall, ITrapped felt a pang of familiarity as he recognized the layout, his steps slowing as he glanced around. 

It seemed to be the same hall the two had gone into the first time he went gambling. Due to the randomness of his first encounter here, he’d neglected to take too many notes on the area, so a second search was warranted.

The hall felt different this time, though. Especially without a bouncing Chance at his side.

As he made his way through the hall, he pushed towards the back staircase, glancing around for any sign of a hidden compartment. He tapped his foot on random tiles on the floor, knocked against walls, and studied the baseboards. 

Nothing. Nothing at all.

He drew in air as his eyes went to the end.

Now there was only one real place to check. He didn’t like it, though.

The hacker paused, now face to face with the sketchy staircase he recalled eyeing back when. Part of him felt iffy about even standing next to it.

Every casino has something sketchy going on behind closed doors, this was nothing new, but Trap really wasn’t in the mood to find an operation or witness something he shouldn’t.

On the other hand, he needed the key. His heart was aching the longer this whole search went on. Caleb was counting on him. 

For a moment his head jumped between proceeding and returning later.

His body moved before he could settle.

ITrapped took a deep breath before descending down the stairs, the steps were clearly hardly walked having little or no damage on them. The material of the steps shifted into concrete the further down he got.

Was it some sort of money laundering scam? Perhaps some hidden machines.

There was hardly anything ITrapped could imagine Chance or their parents to authorize that could be so despicable. They seemed too light hearted for kidnappings or…

Iron.

Thick, metallic, and heavy in the air. 

Heavy. Recent.

A stain on the space. A warning.

The scent had hit the hacker like a tidal wave so hard he stopped walking for just a moment. 

Hesitance.

Perhaps whatever down there was not worth investigating. 

Turn back.

Turn back now.

You’ve dealt with worse. Think of them.

Like a wound up toy, he pressed on.

The air was warm, uncomfortably so, as the hacker reached the bottom floor. The fabric of Trap’s clothes stuck uncomfortably to his skin, his eyes forward as if in a trance. 

The new hall with many doors before him lay bathed in a red light. The sight was disorienting purposefully, almost sickening. ITrapped knew what they were hiding.

The space felt winding except it wasn’t at all. 

There were too many rooms down here. More than there should be for operations like this, at least.

ITrapped moved carefully, the heavy metal doors all shut.

Meant to lock tightly. Meant to keep others in.

Meant to deter cowards.

The hacker kept his eyes down, feigning studying the floor instead of what he knew would be waiting if he even dared peer into the glass of any door.

He just did his average checks. Floors. Walls. Baseboards.

The search continued without many thoughts, the sounds of a broken a/c unit muffling most of the conversation within those daunting areas.

Nothing on the back walls. Or the floors.

He took another deep breath, his lungs heavy now that he had nowhere left to search. 

This was enough. He investigated. He could now lea-

BANG.

Startled.

A shot.

Gunfire.

The sound was so loud he nearly fell. 

His mind swam and his heart raced. Not at you.

The hacker’s eyes slipped to the room on his left.

The origin of the noise.

He stared for a second, biting back pure fear.

Biting back the want to run.

Curiosity bubbled in any way. He felt helpless to stop his own body.

He peered into the glass.

Crimson regret slipped down the side of a metal table. The room was mostly dark, so it was difficult to make out all of the watching faces, but for the ones he could see, they looked away from the bleeding mess of chunks.

As if the pieces weren’t once part of a whole. Once real.

Once human.

They looked sick.

Disgusted.

ITrapped now felt sick.

He tried to convince himself it was fake.

That it was just a show. The warmth of the room became burning against his skin. Hot and closed in. Sweltering and claustrophobic. 

He collected himself for a moment but heaved as the gun in the corpses’ hand fell to the ground.

No more.

He ran.

The hacker slipped out of the area without looking back, messy and rushed, a phantom pain now on the side of his head.

“I beg youuu aughhhh!” Chance had gotten on his hands and knees, clasping them to show his desperation before bowing his head to beg like a child. ITrapped sat in front of him cross legged on the couch, arms to either side. He was getting more and more unamused the longer this went.

“You getting on your knees and crying like that isn’t going to shift my perspective.” 

“I don’t want to go aloneee! I need emotional support!” The gambler pouted his lip all dramatically. It frankly pissed the hacker off.

ITrapped grit his teeth, “I thought you enjoyed being with these people? Do you not gamble with them all the time?”

“Somewhat- but it’s not the same when you’re not there!!!”

“What do you even expect me to do at a wine tasting event? I don’t drink much, Chance.”

“It’s at my house, so you’ll have safe spaces!! And if you don’t want to talk you can just watch… maybe sit beside me or something…? Y’know, keep me warm?” Chance smiled unconvincingly.

ITrapped grimaced, “We both know I run cold.”

“Please please please please-!” Chance grabbed onto ITrapped’s leg, causing him to flinch. They didn’t seem keen on stopping anytime soon, their pleas getting more desperate with each passing word.

“Oh my fucking god, OKAY okay! I’ll go!”

“Yes!!!” His posture immediately switched back to normal as if nothing had happened. The gambler plopped themself on the couch next to ITrapped unbothered. ITrapped scoffed.

“You’re ridiculous.” The hacker muttered, crossing his arms. Chance leaned against Trap’s side, victorious and grinning. ITrapped glared at the man whilst they got comfortable. 

The two had been using the suite as a base for some time since their first time in there, a common space they could use to be by themselves or freshen up. There was a sense of peace being somewhere quiet in a normally rowdy place like a casino, and if ITrapped needed a break, he would find himself here, usually Chance in tow.

They didn’t tend to leave Trap’s side, any sign of discomfort typically led them to bring him back here. It helped the hacker deal with the crowds for longer.

Chance gently put a hand on ITrapped’s forehead, the heat of his hand warming colder skin. 

ITrapped closed his eyes, his tone flat yet soft in the quiet, “I’m not feeling bad, Chance.”

“Hey, I’m allowed to check. Plus, you push yourself and don’t tell me.” The gambler leaned back. 

ITrapped rolled his eyes, “I’m not fragile. I can care for myself.”

“No need to be so prideful. Hah.” Chance nudged the hacker gently, “Anyway, it’ll be tonight and I know you like to get all dressed up, so I’m just letting you know now. We can meet back here, I’ll take you to my house when you're ready. Maybe even show you around once the night has calmed.”

Opportunity.

“I suppose you know me well. I’ll be leaving to get ready then.” ITrapped placed a gentle hand on Chance’s shoulder as he stood, his back now to the gambler, “I’ll see you then.”

They smiled, tender and warm at the figure before them, excited for the later outing.

“ ‘course, be safe, please.”

ITrapped was careful to dress quite a bit nicer than average on this day. He knew whatever guests they were seeing today were likely ones to impress and he’d hate standing out as ‘cheap-looking’ next to some guy wearing shades.

The man adjusted his gloves carefully, his eyes darting to the mirror every once in a while expecting a change. Nothing happened.

Gently wetting his face, the hacker let thoughts leave his head as he took one more glance at his phone, LonelyTree’s messages showing on the screen.

A conversation about his outfit, nothing too exciting. He appreciated the resurfacing company even for the tiny messages provided. It made him feel balanced in a world he had to pretend. Plus, a part of him was relieved to continuously remember not all of his friends were missing or in unknown condition in the badlands. Ly’s voice of normalcy was grounding, that mundane peace he carried remained intoxicating.

ITrapped could only softly chuckle as he viewed another silly photo of a blurry squirrel, one likely taken on the deer’s walk to work that morning. Something this simple eased his mind further.

He was ready.

Clearheaded for once. Clean clothes. Back to feeling more confident, more collected, more at ease. This would be easy.

Once he was sure that he was prepared for a night of rich gossip, Trap left, head held high.

During a lull, I’ll sneak away and get an idea of the layout then focus on any suspicious areas later in the night.

Arriving at the casino, the ice king slowed his walk, the chill of a fall night sending shivers through most robloxians. Despite the fluffy coat he'd chosen for the night, Trap honestly didn’t feel too much of the chill. In fact, he would argue the temperature was quite nice. He was sure Chance would feel differently.

“Trap!” Chance appeared once more out of thin air, his arms tightly wrapped together as he shivered. They gestured him over to join them at a sleek black limo.

As expected, he is a shivering puppy.

The gambler seemed to be sporting a more fancy outfit on this night, red suit, matching red fedora and glasses and a rose tucked into his suit pocket. The hacker smiled in their direction as he approached, eyeing them up and down, “Okay, now this is the most interesting outfit I’ve seen to date.”

Chance shrugged, “My parents made me just like they made me attend this party. I added the glasses though.”

Trap sighed, “Of course you did. Now, shall we go before you freeze in warm weather?”

Chance shook his head, “It’s not warm, you just… are a weirdo.” Chance gave another harsh shiver.

Despite the lame attempt at an insult, ITrapped remained unamused, “Chance, get in the god damn limo.”

The entire limo ride was primarily made up of the gambler rambling to ITrapped. They seemed keen on explaining family history, in which most parts ITrapped knew from his previous research. Of course, there was no way he’d tell them that.

“All these rich friend parties and they can’t even attend.” Chance sighed, “I do this more often than I’d like to, hah.”

ITrapped kept his hands poised in his lap, eyes staring outside as the car moved across the city, “What would you rather do instead?” 

“This feeeeeeels like teasing bait,” Chance noted, flipping a coin between his fingers, “No, not gamble. I actually don’t feel like it today.”

“You? Not wanting to gamble?” Trap sat up a smidgen more, “Did an alien replace you or something?” 

Chance grinned, “You wish. Only you could be this lucky to fall into my good graces. It’s me, in real life, yes yes hold your applause.”

Trap rolled his eyes, “Don’t worry I was planning on applauding myself for dealing with your insanity.” 

Chance looked away, mumbling just loud enough for the hacker to hear, “I should do the same for dealing with you.”

“Say that again, I dare you.” The hacker’s eyes snapped to Chance, a playful yet threatening taunt tossed into the ring causing Chance to reel back. They smiled sheepishly now, “On second thought, my momma said to never accept peer pressure of any kind. I think I’ll pass.”

ITrapped stopped, his glare softening, the warmth returning back to Chance’s face.

The two laughed softly, their voices filling the back of the limo and lighting up the space.

It wasn’t long before the limo slowed to a stop in front of what ITrapped could only describe as a mansion. Trimmed bushes, clean marble steps, a gate surrounding the property, it reeked of filthy rich.

The pictures he’d studied simply didn’t cut it in terms of presentation. This felt a lot more real.

“Wow, your parents really care for looks it seems.” ITrapped muttered as Chance came around from thanking the driver.

It must be here.

“They do, now we should hurry, we’re late.” Chance grabbed ITrapped’s arm gently, ushering him forward to get them moving, an uncharacteristically hasty move.

“Now, how are we late to a party you are supposed to be hosting?” ITrapped questioned, raising an eyebrow somewhat expecting this level of irresponsibility.

“Don’t worry ‘bout it! Some of the maids handled it! What matters is we’re here now!”

Trap had to learn quite a few names the moment they walked in. The guests dragged around their fancy clothes, wearing all kinds of limiteds, and snooty attitudes, something ITrapped couldn’t necessarily fault them for.

The space in itself felt ego boosting to exist in. Custom paintings dressed the walls, fancy vases sat on display, exotic plants sat in corners, even the tableware was probably laced with gold. A single item in the room could most likely get at least three separate houses and a kiss on the shoe by Builderman himself.

Though, ITrapped would’ve probably preferred to kick the man instead.

The atmosphere was warm above all. Reds and dark brown colors.

It made sense for casino owners.

Of course, as well as the decor, just like at the casino, the guests were chatty. Annoyingly so. Trap could’ve sworn some were faking accents. 

They loved talking about themselves and asking small insignificant questions. Initially, the pair had stayed close to divide and conquer the room, but this plan was quickly foiled by old business owners and their running mouths.

Trap was getting dragged away from Chance and getting questioned about every detail of his life. It felt violating even though Trap was sure this was average for this sort of get together. Need an interrogation? Just ask old rich people to do it for you.

These people really loved pretending to like their peers, but they didn’t really hide too well their lack of care. That ticked ITrapped off a bit more than it should’ve.

If even a criminal can bother to remember every small detail about a target, you pretentious fucks should be able to remember the first name of your long term business partner.

He had to lie about essentially everything, coming up with little things on the spot, but of course his story of meeting Chance remained the same.

No mistakes.

That was the level of dedicated he was.

It was the reason why the mods never caught onto him. 

“You have been such a delight to speak to. I’m sure your family is quite proud of you.” One of the owners of an expensive clothing chain had told ITrapped, “You’re such a lovely boy.”

“Your company is quite lovely as well ma’am. I wish you well in your endeavors.” He smiled warmly after the thousandth conversation finished. He had begun to turn, expecting to get dragged somewhere else before Chance came from the crowd and wrapped an arm over his back, “You doin okay?”

ITrapped let his polite stance falter a little, “Aside from entertaining your party guests, I’d say I’m doing alright. You?”

Chance adjusted his glasses, “I’m okay- just sorry that you’ve been dragged into small talk. I meant for us to hang out as this went on. Didn’t mean to drag you into business and politics.” 

ITrapped shrugged, “I can handle some snooty guests.”

Chance smirked, “Because you’re so snooty yourself?” That nice little comment got them a nice little elbow in the side from ITrapped as they giggled softly.

At that moment, the two’s attention was caught by another group of party guests waving them over to the couches. They both sighed, the moment of shared peace now fleeting. 

“Together now, yeah?” Chance slowly removed his arm from Trap, standing straight again in preparation for more small talk. ITrapped nodded, playfully feigning boredom, “I suppose, come on.”

More conversation.

ITrapped mostly kept quiet this time, letting Chance woo his audience with their charm. It allowed him a moment to think for the first time since the beginning of the evening.

He had continuously tried to be casual about places Chance took him, but he still couldn’t help but feel small in these spaces. Money was a funny thing. Something so ridiculous could make or break the majority of the world.

If no one put any emphasis into the robux that’s passed around, would it still hold any value?

He tuned back into the ongoing conversation.

“Ohh have either of you tried this white wine from the Lane company? It’s to die for!” The elderly woman in a floral dress had ushered a waiter over before even receiving a word of agreed interest. The gambler indulged anyway.

“No, I haven’t yet, ma’am, I’d love to try it.” Chance graciously took the glass held out to him by the waiter. The woman smiled and placed her attention on ITrapped, who snapped out of his daze, “And you, young man? Would you like to try?”

ITrapped blinked a few times, panic setting in but he elected not to cause waves or stand out, “Of course. Thank you.” He gently took the wine glass from the waiter, being careful not to spill any. 

Chance blinked a few times before whispering, “I thought you didn’t drink!”

“I don’t. I’m trying to be good for your guests. Thank me later.” ITrapped whispered before taking a light sip and switching the volume of his voice, “This is lovely, madame.”

“Isn’t it?” She smiled, seemingly happy to see others share her opinion. Good play, ITrapped flashed a quick smirk at Chance who smiled wearily back. The hacker couldn’t pin why.

The evening carried on without any hiccups. Chance let themself indulge in a bit more alcohol than they should’ve while ITrapped stayed quiet at their side. At the end of the night, the gambler had found himself thanking the last couple guests and seeing them out himself before making his way back through pristine halls.

“Finally it’s over. Next time, I’m asking my parents to do their socializing themself-“ He paused, the front of his body shadowed as he faced away from the fire raging in the fireplace. The gambler was focused on a dazed looking ITrapped, his body language now slumped and his crown laid to the side.

He looked out of it. 

Not in the way Chance had seen him stare into space. No, that was different.

“Is.. something the matter, Chance…?” The hacker’s speech slurred slightly as they faced each other. He’d only touched maybe the first wine glass he was handed that night… the pieces snapped together in their head.

Chance’s jaw dropped, “You’re a lightweight?? Is that why you don’t drink???” 

They sat down next to the hacker, absolutely shocked by this new predicament. ITrapped immediately fell against the gambler, burying his face into their side, Chance could hardly breathe, his heart pounding at the contact.

ITrapped muttered into their shoulder, his gloves grabbing at nothing as he tried to keep himself steady, “You smell like alcohol.” 

“It was a wine tasting get together, Ice. Good god you’re more out of it than I thought.” He chuckled, “I thought I was down drunk tonight.”

“Shut it.” The ice king snapped, “You’re… drunk, moron…” 

Chance paused and processed for a moment, his mind also a little fuzzy from the wine, “I don’t know where you live… driving you home is out of the question…” Chance rested their head against the hacker for a second before looking at the top of his head, “You can stay here with me tonight. You okay with that?” 

A gloved hand reached up to Chance’s face, causing the gambler’s breath to hitch, “ITrapped? What are you-“

A kiss.

Gentle and warm on his cheek despite everything else. Like a whisper.

Like a promise.

Absolute silence.

The loudest thing in the area was the sounds of the fire cracking in front of them.

“What was that?!” The gambler’s voice came out louder than intended as he smiled nervously. ITrapped shrugged letting his hand fall, “…Half a greeting… I think…? Maybe a goodbye… I dunno…”

“You know greetings and goodbyes are two kisses, right???” 

“…Too much effort.” Trap mumbled like a chastised child. Chance could only burst out into laughter, holding the slumped figure close to keep him from sliding off the couch.

“Awww, do I get a real kiss of thanks later?” The gambler joked through scattered laughter, playing into the ridiculousness of the situation. He knew ITrapped would kick out his shins normally. If he remembered any of this conversation later, Chance knew they were done for.

“I don’t know… you’re ugly and I hate you.” ITrapped grumbled in retaliation as he closed his eyes.

Chance squinted, “Heeey. Uncalled for.”

They hid the growing red in their face by pulling down their fedora.

The rest of the night went as smoothly as it could. Chance helped the hacker stumble around as he too remained out of his wits.

They were ridiculously clumsy. Both of them. The hacker was entirely gone for the night, so not only could he not complain at Chance for small things, his plan was entirely out the window.

At some point, Trap could’ve sworn he completely passed out on the floor but he woke up fine in a bed in what seemed to be morning, his head pounding.

He let himself slowly come to his senses, not even moving for a moment.

Goddamnit. I’m never touching alcohol again.

The hacker adjusted, trying to gain his bearings as he muttered curse words under his breath, unkempt hair falling over his eyes as he looked at the ceiling and attempted to half sit up.

What even happened…

Smack.

A gentle hit against something near him.

Blurry eyes fell onto the slumbering figure next to him that remained turned away. Trap’s body reacted so harshly that he almost fell off the bed.

Chance...?

Part of him remained disgusted.

Here he was, pathetically hung-over, memories fuzzy and his target next to him slumbering peacefully. This wasn’t part of the plan.

ITrapped despised this vulnerability.

Yet, the other half of his mind remained peaceful.

In a way he couldn’t feel with Ly or the others.

It crawled into his mind like a parasite and burrowed to soothe his heart. 

ITrapped knew this wasn’t supposed to be. No job had him this close to the target before. There were repercussions to not exercising space precautions. 

He jumped into this headfirst without fully realizing what could happen.

He didn’t want to feel this comfortable.
He didn’t want to feel this way. 

He couldn’t.

You don’t deserve this.

You hardly deserve the others. 

What makes you think you deserve him, too?

He overlooks everything you're doing to him.

ITrapped felt as if he were out in the open now. As if he revealed too much.

A grave mistake. 

One he couldn’t take back. He felt like crying; something he didn’t often do.

He didn’t even put himself in the bed and yet he was blaming himself as he had. As if it were the worst thing he could have possibly let happen.

You can’t save the others like this.

A disgusting waste of-

“ITrapped..?

Chance’s voice shot those thoughts down. ITrapped flinched and turned his attention to the half awake individual, their golden eyes staring right into his own. They were clearly confused, probably because Trap was shaking. The movement must’ve woke them.

When did that start?

“Are you okay?” They asked again softly, totally unbothered by the proximity. 

How could something so intimate come so natural to them?

“Yeah… I’ll be fine. Just cold...” ITrapped lied through his teeth. He was surprised they weren’t making fun of him for somehow getting drunk. That would’ve been the first thing Caleb would’ve mentioned.

Chance smiled a little before gently pulling the hacker back down, the move wanting ITrapped to rip his skin off in retaliation, but he didn’t fight back. The gambler gently wrapped their arms around him before putting the hacker’s head underneath his own, the blanket enveloping their bodies on a cold fall night, “I’ll get ya warm soon.”

Embarrassing. Cruel.

“I thought my body temperature was too cold for you, Shades…” ITrapped could only manage out whispers at this point. It was hard for him to move or breathe, not by any fault of the gambler, just by pure fear.

He was hiding it mostly well.

“I’m gettin’ used to it.” 

ITrapped did feel warmer.

Inside and out.

He wondered if this really was uncomfortable for Chance. If there was one thing the gambler was good at, it was his poker face.

Maybe he didn't need to ask that question for now.

There was no way he could weasel his way out of this now. The thought soothed his need to escape as he let his muscles relax and buried himself further against Chance.

He tried to calm down as best as possible. It was easier in the quiet so he could ignore the panic to a degree.

This would end eventually, this comfortability between the two of them.

Yet, Trap held on. 

Even if he were supposed to be at odds with them.

Even if this would end with them never seeing each other again.

He wanted to hold on just a little longer. A stupid, entirely self-indulgent act.

He craved connection, even if he didn’t believe in it.

Just this one thing.

He could kick himself for it later.

For now, there was something else. Something real. Someone who saw him.

All ITrapped wanted was to be seen.

Now he was.

Chapter Text

Since the night of the party, a switch seemed to flip in the relationship of the pair. 

ITrapped was choosing to go with the flow more often instead of making plans for every meetup. Somehow, it was working better. In some ways, at least.

The uncertainty he faced most interactions was fading bit by bit and the hacker was getting to see more and more aspects of Chance’s life. Though, admittedly, the actual searching parts of the plan weren’t as prominent. 

In fact, embarrassingly, Trap found himself forgetting the whole reason he was there at all at times.

Something about the gambler was just captivating him at each hang out, which he could only excuse as the charm of their presence finally working on him. Too much time spent here.

It was never supposed to last this long realistically.

The worst of it all? Trap wasn’t saying no. At some points he could feel his uncertainty bubble back up, but the gambler would immediately distract him once more.

It was embarrassing.

Too vulnerable.

Yet he persisted, determined now due to the length of the operation.

Or perhaps another reason. LonelyTree had been implying something, but the implication went over ITrapped’s head every single time.

Now, the hacker sat quietly on a tall chair watching the chaos of a drunken game of pool, the rich clients and their spouses enjoying an evening in the vip lounge of the ever so familiar casino. 

Swirling the cup of water in his hand, Trap couldn’t help but sneer at every pitiful cry of frustration the group made, especially Chance with his over dramatic gestures.

There was no way he wasn’t drunk out of his mind based on his inability to hit the ball.

A few of the wives of the men playing who sat nearby were egging on the shenanigans, wine glasses swirling. 

“You should sit with them! They’re a fun bunch to talk to.” Chance had told Trap as they entered. 

Trapped scoffed, “And talk to them about what? I have nothing to say to them.” 

Chance had laughed softly, “I’m sure they’d love you like I do if you just went with the flow. You’re so anti-social.”

As much as ITrapped would’ve spoken with them if he had to, he wasn’t sure he and the rich ladies would share similar humor. Especially while he was sober.

Though the way they were acting was humorous enough to watch so that was a plus.

Smack!

Another ball hit so hard it rolled off the table entirely that riled up the laughter. ITrapped was sure they were all in the fourth dimension by this rate, his eyes rolled as the game continued. Frivolous.

The hacker began to eye some of the displayed wine glasses in an effort to focus on anything else, though the peace, if one could call it that, didn’t last much longer.

Some moments later, a stumbling man came and sat next to Trap. The guy was totally disheveled, borderline homeless looking. If it weren’t for the fact they were dressed in red and white designer clothes, they’d be no different from a drug user on the streets. Plus, he’d been around Chance long enough to expect these shenanigans.

“Hii, Trap…” Chance chuckled as if the hacker had said something funny. 

“Someone’s absolutely out of it. What bottle are you even on?” ITrapped spoke without flinching, taking a small sip of his water. Chance shrugged, “Probably twenty-teenth. Or something…”

“Maybe I should force you to cut back on your alcohol intake.” ITrapped muttered before using a gentle hand to guide Chance’s chin to meet his face. Chance stared wordlessly, entirely ignoring what ITrapped had just suggested.

They blinked slowly, their eyes slightly visible due to their glasses which had fallen off partially.

ITrapped said finally after looking them up and down, “You’re a mess.” 

“In a minute, I’ll be a winning mess.” Chance readjusted a little as a glass of water was shoved into his hand, the cold condensation making him jerk a little in surprise.

Trap adjusted his gloves, “Drink a little, please. It might help you not stumble out of here later.”

The gambler paused, looked at the glass he had been given then drank some water. ITrapped noticed the small smile they seemed to give in his direction, but he didn’t question it.

Unintentional drunk actions obviously. 

Chance murmured in his daze, “By the way, I have a surprise for you. Remind me when I’m not half-awake.”

ITrapped lifted an eyebrow.

A surprise? They sure like to give a lot of gifts- what could it possibly be…?

Wait, why the fuck do I even care???

Chance finished the rest of the water and tossed it down on the table, “Anywayyy- thanks for being here, Trap.” They stumbled as they turned to their friend, falling yet wrapping their arms around the startled hacker who had to catch him so he didn’t hit his head. As he rubbed his face against Trap’s neck, they spoke in a low voice, the tone purposefully meant to keep this statement a secret between them, “These moments are my favorite. Thank you for being hereee…” Their words slurred.

This idiot. Hmph.

A small smile creeped onto the hacker’s face…

…A facade no less… of course…totally.

The gambler stood back up and ran back over to the excited group of pool table players, ready to gear up for another round.

Someone else quickly filled their spot though.

One of the wives of the powerful business men strutted over with a glass of red wine in hand. Judging by her expression, she seemed intrigued about something.

That or she was about to bitch and complain. Trap wasn’t exactly excited to engage in small talk or frankly any conversation of any kind. Especially with these shallow minded individuals. He decided to keep his eyes trained on Chance for now as she made her way over, silently bracing for conversation.

“So you’re the person that wild child is obsessed with. I couldn’t have imagined he would be fixated on someone so well put together.” Her voice was teasing in nature already, far too casual considering the fact they’d never spoken before.

“I figure ‘put together’ is quite the compliment from you. To what do I owe your words?” The reply was robotic, Trap couldn’t care less. He doubted she would pick up on that tiny annoyance in her tipsy state.

“Well, I suppose we’re all so curious. No one typically…” She put a hand to her chest while she thought through her words, “No one speaks to him past game nights.”

What could she possibly be telling me this for?

Does she feel sorry for me?

Is this her way of expressing her status or something?

“I see.” ITrapped watched her, trying to sense her intentions. Despite his attempt to seem uninterested, she continued to pursue.

“I mean, his parents are kind, but it’s a shock they raised such a rowdy boy. It could end up being a bad image for their brand.” The woman leaned against the bar next to them.

Alcohol always seemed to bring out something out of a person.

In this case, her negative attitude.

It was pissing the hacker off the longer she talked, as if even the sound of her voice was grating.

She just kept going, “Irresponsibility out in front of guests is simply unheard of. We all have images to keep. Legacies to carry…” 

ITrapped could feel that familiar rising anger bubbling up somewhere deep within, but he locked it away. Instead, he cut off the woman in the middle of her drunken speech,

“Against popular belief, Chance has been lovely company, and I’m sure they will make their parents proud.” He slowly turned to the woman to attempt to make full eye contact, “You can trust my words completely.”

The woman seemed to scramble under ITrapped’s gaze, understanding her error swiftly, “Ah, I see. Well that’s good. Talk to you later, hun…” She shrunk then slinked off, scrambled away back to her pack of vultures.

Trap wondered if his tone was too vicious though it was too late to figure it out. She was already chatting like nothing happened, as if hesitance was already too much to show. He knew she was bothered.

What a weirdo.

Why does Chance even bother with these people?

They were quite literally nothing like any of the other rich people Trap had met all this time.

They didn’t seem to even want to go to these, often complained about it a little, yet they didn’t ask their parents to skip. In fact, Chance seemed to plan extra meetups with these people.

Having a bunch of extra cash makes you do strange things.

The sounds of the cheering group carried into the silence later after the gathering finished.

ITrapped road with Chance to their home. By this point, the two were getting comfortable constantly sharing space, often having sleepovers now in Chance’s room. They’d do what Trap considered random nonsense for hours, but the time was theirs. A time away from their problems. Away from their strife.

Away from the plan.

Initially it took getting used to, he hadn’t been in someone else’s space constantly for a while.

Though, it was normal now. Just how they interacted. How they existed.

They moved into the large mansion silently, hand in hand, the moonlight creating a path through the extensive halls. Once they arrived in Chance’s room, the two removed accessories and slowed down the talk as Trap nudged Chance into the restroom first.

As usual, he was helping the gambler with his bed time routine like a parent. Trap wondered how on earth they did this routine part without ITrapped’s help when drunk in the past. Or well anyone’s help in the past for that matter.

Would Chance be the type to pass out at the casino?

He handles the alcohol a lot better than most, but it doesn’t change his sloppiness when he outdrinks his limit.

That familiar voice interrupted his thoughts yet again, “Traaappp, the world is really dark… am I going blind?”

ITrapped spun around, “You better not be in the shower with your fucking shades on!!!”

After fighting the gambler through the rest of their routine, and doing his own, he eventually got them settled under the covers comfortably.

“You are ridiculous, you know that?” ITrapped muttered, standing above the gambler, blonde hair spilling down as he leaned forward. He hadn’t realized how long his hair had gotten until now, despite taking care of it diligently every day. 

“I’m your ridiculous.” Chance chuckled as if he made some kind of world shattering statement. ITrapped just scowled.

“You know that doesn’t make any sense, right?” The hacker lowered a little further, gently running a cold hand across the drunken man’s forehead, “I’ll be back… I’ll get you a glass of water.”

“Mmmm… I’ll wait for you.” Chance muttered, their eyes already shut. ITrapped shook his head affectionately, trying to hold back a small smile.

“If you can stay awake long enough.”

The hacker walked out into the large space again, the silence now foreboding.

His legs moved, he knew he’d eventually return with a glass of water, but for now he needed something else, so he wandered first.

With the click of a button, his phone began to buzz, calling another in hopes they’d pick up.

Beep.

“Helllooo?” LonelyTree’s voice cheerfully chriped from the other end of the line. ITrapped smiled then spoke, “Hey dude, what’s going on?”

The deer scoffed, “Nothin’ much. Just up late because of my shift and I don’t want to sleep. I’m just playing some games. You good? Where you at? Another night at the casino?”

“Technically, I was accompanying them to a rich person's swarm. I mean honestly, some of these people are so pretentious.” ITrapped’s eyes scanned around the floors, “One of the wives came to me to try to shit talk to my face. I mean, how forward do you have to be?? I didn’t even know her.”

LonelyTree giggled, “Hey, you could pass for a rich lady now.”

“Don’t tease me.” 

“I think it’s a compliment.”

ITrapped sighed, “Well if I were some rich lady, I wouldn’t be talking to you now would I?”

“No, you’d be a lovely trophy wife, though.” Ly pushed, god he wanted to shove the guy, “So, your mysterious illness. Any updates?”

The hacker rounded a corner and half heartedly ran his free hand against the wall, “No. In fact its symptoms have lowered recently. I don’t know if it’s some freak illness or what.”

Tree made a noise of acknowledgement, “Could be. I’ve read about people experiencing intense health scares only for the symptoms to randomly vanish. Maybe you just got unlucky and your body is re-ordering right now.”

“As much as I’d like for it to be that, something feels off either way. Just eerie.” ITrapped’s eyes went from the large chandelier in the foyer to the large windows behind it that made the glass shimmer, “Lets hope I don’t just drop dead or something someday.”

LonelyTree was silent for a moment, his concern showing through despite their joking, “You’re sure you won’t go to a hospital? Even if just for a checkup?”

ITrapped grit his teeth then released the pressure as he found the right words, “Look, I know you’re worried, but Nate and I aren’t the most free we could be right now. I don’t want to risk it.”

“Not even a small clinic?” Ly pleaded.

“Out of the question.” Trap affirmed.

“And you haven’t heard from Nate at all??”

ITrapped moved towards the kitchen, the counters clean despite knowing the activity that occurred earlier in the day. The house may be empty, but someone had to at least be here to feed Spade while Chance was out, “Not once. He’s actually on a wanted list though, so I wouldn’t be shocked if he’s playing it safe.”

LonelyTree seemed to hesitate with his next words, “I’m happy you’re doing better. I just worry you’ll fall further next time and I won’t be there to help you.” The deer chuckled nervously, “I know you typically are pretty well thought through, but any spur of the moment could cause something you can’t take back. You could end up paralyzed. Wound into a frenzy. Dead.”

Why do you care, LonelyTree?

“I know, but… like you said. I’m strategic. I got this. You just have to trust me as always.” ITrapped filled a small glass with some iced water.

LonelyTree hummed lowly, “I do trust you. Keep me updated.”

ITrapped moved in the direction of Chance’s room, “I will. I’ll call you later. Okay?”

“Alright. Sleep well.”

Click.

The gambler awoke slowly, his head dazed from the night before but to a manageable degree.

They could hardly imagine the amount of times they hadn’t woken up with this feeling, unhealthy sure, but recently those nights had slowed.

They were laid on their side, arms wrapped around something solid yet chilled beneath him, his face was against long blonde hair.

ITrapped didn’t even noticed the shuffling weight behind him as he remained distracted. He was too caught up in his current task. As per usual, the news said nothing about any wanted criminals being found, no traces. Just a few missing cases that were going viral… some pizza worker…

“Good morning you.” Chance cooed, almost teasingly as he peered over Trap’s shoulder, “Whatcha lookin at?”

ITrapped kept scrolling absent mindedly now, “Just keeping up to date on the stressful news going on… always something happening nowadays.”

“You’re always a little stressed. Maybe turn it off for a while, hm?” Chance whispered, hugging ITrapped tighter.

Trap sighed and nodded, putting his phone face down on the bed, “I’m all yours.”

Chance grinned, “Let’s get some breakfast and feed Spade, yeah?”

The two got up and Trap immediately went and did some of his morning routine as Chance lagged behind yet finished before him.

Brushing his teeth, combing his hair, changing into more appropriate clothing. Then as he moved to leave, he made a quick change to his normal hair style.

Walking out, ITrapped made his way directly to the kitchen this time, passing the few workers who were on duty and greeting them. Chance was already at work to mixing some waffle batter, his hair messy despise the cleanliness of his wardrobe choice.

They glanced up, looked down, spoke half a word, and glanced back up again but slower this time.

If it weren’t attached to their face, their jaw would’ve been on the floor.

“Did you… tie your hair up?” They sputtered, the mixing motion of their arms slowing as they stared.

“Yeah? Got a staring problem?” ITrapped shot back, sudden embarassment at the last minute decision fogging his mind.

“No- just- it looks good.” Chance chuckled to themself, going back to his work.

The two worked through a quick breakfast, the conversation light-hearted and teasing, mostly recounting the night, before the two worked on food for Spade and made their way to the trademarked ‘bunny room’.

Now, ITrapped’s first meeting with Spade was a wild ride. He would never forget the first time he laid eyes on that pile of fur.

The first words were, “WOAH.”

His first thoughts were: That’s a huge ass rabbit.

Spade was a large continental giant rabbit who was pampered to the max.

The hacker swore up and down that he had a worse childhood than Spade. She was calm though, more than he was as a kid, so maybe that was why. 

In fact, she never made a huge fuss. She liked cuddling and being carried around. She was a very sweet bunny. 

Chance made sure she knew she was loved and then some. 

Entering the room, spotting the ball of black fur was easy as she came over to greet the food being put down.

“Out of any pet, why a huge rabbit? She might smother you in your sleep with all that fur.” ITrapped inquired and teased as the two watched her dig into her bowl as if it would disappear. Chance shrugged, “I mean. Why not a huge rabbit? They’re cute.”

“Rabbits have beady eyes. It freaks me out…Maybe you are a bigger weirdo than I thought.” ITrapped sighed. Chance only smiled wider once Spade finished her food, “Maybe you’d understand if you held her.”

“You better n-”

He didn’t have time to think before a bunny the size of a medium sized dog was shoved into his arms. At first he almost toppled from sheer imbalance of weight. As he regained his footing, he was panicking and glaring.

“CHANCE TAKE HER BACK NOW!”

The gambler snapped a photo with his phone, “New wallpaper…”

“CHAAHAHANCEE.” The fluffy mess in ITrapped’s arms was so unbothered, he was half sure she was asleep. Besides the weight, she was really adorable and soft, but he wouldn’t admit that to the traitor watching him panic without helping.

“Just be calm, she’s not gonna bite you I think.” Chance snickered as he stepped back further.

“The fuck you mean you think!?!?!” ITrapped went to move forward, but paused in fear he might drop her. Chance was bending over laughing.

They stopped.

Uh oh, an idea.

“You know, she likes when I play the piano for her, come on, bring her to the music room.”

The sneaky asshole zoomed out of the room, leaving ITrapped with Spade and a face of shock.

Holy shit, I’m gonna actually kill this man.

“Well alright. Spade it’s you and me. To the… music room… so I can… fight your owner.” ITrapped tried to adjust the hold he had on the large rabbit with a bit of a struggle before carefully walking out of the room towards the direction of the music room. The twitching bunny in his arms seemed to be just happy to be held, which he might’ve happily done had he not just had the equivalent of a human child shoved his way.

Trap grumbled under his breath as he used his foot to kick open the door of the music room, Chance already playing a classical tune at the large gleaming black grand piano.

The hacker grit his teeth.

I’ll chew him out after.

Gently lowering and placing Spade on the couch, Trap walked over and sat on the side of the piano bench next to Chance.

“Asshole.”

“It was cute.” Chance smiled, his focus somehow unwavering.

Trap let the conversation fall to silence, watching Chance’s hands move across the keys. Now that he focused on the piece, he recognized the melody.

In fact, his fingers moved on autopilot just as they would on his instrument.

“You know this song?” Chance questioned, their eyes still on the piano. ITrapped nodded, “Very well. From…”

Why can’t I recall when I learned this piece?

It was very important to me. I can recall the feelings I felt from it. Why nothing else…?

“From childhood.” He finished, hiding his uncertainty. Chance nodded, “It’s not an easy one. I’m shocked you know it.”

“Prodigy, duh.” Trap joked, “I worked really hard to get it right. Practiced for months.”

The notes were nostalgic. 

He could remember it vividly. The sound of someone excitedly at the piano, his fingers hurting from the hours of work, the fan keeping the room cool in the summer heat.

A complete 180 to the cold fall morning outside. 

Yet, here he was, thawing.

Thawing and allowing this to happen.

“I am a violinist.” 

Chance stopped playing, his hands stuck curve in position for the next chord that never came. ITrapped’s eyes stayed trained on the ivory.

Such a small piece of information and he felt as if he spilt his entire life.

“It suits you very well.” Chance said, his posture calm but his excitement slightly showing through, “I’m glad I finally know.”

The hacker muttered, “It’s not world bending or anything.”

“Well, you considered it personal a while ago. So it’s big to me, ‘Trap.” Chance hugged the blonde, “Oohhhhh, please play for me sometime.”

“We can play together. I know the violin part in a duet version of this piece.” The hacker pulled a little away from the gambler as he mimicked the movements towards the beginning of the piece. It was exaggerated for laughs, but Chance took the opportunity.

They played. So Trap matched his performance. 

He could hear the distant sound of the violin lodged deep within his memory. Every long tone had soared through the air back then.

Even though there was no bow and no strings, ITrapped could still hear it perfectly. His fingers grazed an imaginary fingerboard with intense muscle memory. 

He stood, mimicking the body movements of his youth. Pretend playing as if it were his life’s work. 

The moment was corny, so childish, so silly, something he’d usually only do for Nate and Caleb or Ly, yet here he was committing to the ridiculousness of it all.

The moment was theirs.

All theirs.

ITrapped was tired when he sat back down, Chance smiled softly as the two took in the silence following, staying close in chilled weather. Rain began to hit the window.

A thought from the night previous returned to the gambler’s mind.

“Speaking of music, I do have that surprise for you…”

Keep your head down.

This was the third time this month he had seen admins around this area. He couldn’t be sure if someone was reporting him or what. It’s not like he was all over the news or anything.

He had to hide his dominicus, a shame really, the matching trio of hoods was a huge staple for him and he hated to see it hidden. It was for the best for now.

Moving through the side walks, he could hear conversation from locals.

“They might’ve spotted an exploiter around here…”

“Oh goodness, do not put that into the air!”

“I hope those monsters get thrown away for good!”

Well. It was a welcome alright. Lovely people.

His opinion now was irrelevant anyway. All he had to do was survive. That was the way it had been since his escape.

The streets seemed to become empty the further he walked. The air became just a little too thick.

Something was wrong.

No matter.

He turned into the alleys, it was out of the eyes of the public and gave him the ability to slink away if necessary.

One step into the alley and he knew he was being tailed.

So he ran.

Water from puddles splashed underneath his boots.

His breath was quick.

Sliding underneath stray structures of trash left and moving around trash cans.

Patter.

Patter.

One pair of footsteps.

Two pairs.

Two.

There was no use in hiding now.

He fumbled open his mostly broken admin panel he strung together over the past few months, typing in commands to toss stray objects behind him.

Glass.

Rocks.

They all clattered and made contact with solid objects.

This wasn’t the first chase he’d been in and it wouldn’t be the last.

Pitter patter.

Splash. Another puddle.

Slash.

A stray piece of metal caught his leg. He sucked in a breath through grit teeth.

Then.

SLAM

One simple mistake.

No. No. No. No.

FUCK.

GOD DAMNIT.

He tried to get up. To continue.

To run. To fight. To do anything.

CRACK.

A boot against his head to keep him down, the pressure agonizing. The hacker looked around desperately from what he could see to try to ID his captor, but to no avail. 

The pressure caused his head to pound.

“Ellernate.” The voice spoke, “You are being detained under robloxian law after evading arrest. Your punishment will not be light.”

Nate said nothing. His breath caught in his throat.

A second voice joined the conversation, though he knew not from where. They seemed to speak to the first individual for a moment before turning attention back to him in a fury.

“Are you working with Doombringer, you snake?!?” The second voice hissed, “How are you contacting him???? Are you or your little friends responsible for the disappearanc-“

The voice was hushed. All Nate could make out after that was, ‘We can discuss that with him later. Come on.’

The pressure was too much.

It hurt.

Shit.

The world seemed to fade away.