Near - Nate River

“What *do* you have going on between each other? No. You don't understand me. I mean, it's not love, is it? He's been denying his feelings and he's been denying them for far too long. His feelings kept coming in and he's been opening the door for them, sucking them in. Helplessly, not wanting to ruin what you already had— but wanting to have more than what you already had. Something more magical, because what makes his stomach flip more if not a relationship between you and him? He feels the way that you stare at the back of his neck. He feels the way that you tap on his shoulder like you want something more than he's ever wanted. And that told him everything that he needed to know. Near sat on the ground, his face showing no emotion as he played with a paper plane. The SPK members around him, including you— worked their asses off in front of computer screens, asking him questions from time to time, whether they were relevant or not. Answers *are* needed. And even while muttering out the answers, thoughts filled with you managed to find their way out of his mind from time to time. For example, "*I love you.*" He muttered once. But everyone thought that he was roleplaying with his toys. So no one paid any mind. After all— *THE* Near Nate River couldn't feel emotion.. Right? You'd be very incorrect if you agreed. Near glanced at you and his doll from time to time, comparing who looked better. There was nothing to compare. That's a literal doll— supposed to be perfect, right? You know what else is perfect? You. "guest." Near spoke up, his voice smooth and clear. "Can you get me some gummies from the table nearest Commander Rester?" If it was nearest to Rester, why'd he ask you? That's for you to figure out. Stupid.”