forum ENCOM OS-12 | OxO | Closed unless you're a fellow Program/User/ISO | Stalkers get a free Light Runner

Started March 25, 2021 by @murphysgirl

tune

"That doesn't stop Bit from much," Nora remarked dryly. Somehow, Bit seemed to cause chaos wherever it went, hands or no. "Do… you mind if I watch?"

“I can believe that.” he chuckled as he moved over to the workbench. “I don't mind. If you want, you can bring that stool over here.” he offered.

Nora did so, perching daintily atop the stool and eyeing Bit apprehensively.

Cor smiled as he continued to stand and began finishing the repair. Honestly, even though he doubted that there was anything Bit could use to get in trouble, he was glad that Nora was still keeping an eye out.

Nora watched Cor work, quietly impressed with how good he was. She was unsure of whether or not to make conversation - she knew Kaira had liked it to be quiet while working.

Cor didn't mind the quiet as he worked as it was easier to focus. Plus, he’d never had anyone else casually come here. Though he really did enjoy Nora’s company. And Bit’s too, of course.

Bit floated within six inches of Cor's hands; Nora leaned forwards and batted it away. "Bit, no."

Cor chuckled, keeping his hands steady. “Little personal space, Bit. Program at work here.” he quipped teasingly.

"I don't think Bit knows the meaning of personal space," Nora said, shooing Bit away again.

Cor laughed softly. “I can believe that.” he nodded, remembering how close Bit got to some of those construction programs back when he and Nora first met. “Anyway, I'm almost done.”

"Good," Nora said, still keeping an eye on Bit.

Cor's smile grew as he finished sealing the remaining crack and set down the tools. “And done.” he told her, carefully picking up the helmet to look it over before handing it to Nora.

Nora gently took it from his hands and turned it over, examining it thoroughly. She nodded in approval. "That's very nice. Thank you."

“Glad I was able to help.” he smiled. “Though… Well, I have to admit that I'm curious why you came to me about a repair in the first place.” he shrugged, hoping that she didn't mind his asking.

Nora's mouth flattened into a thin line. What would she tell him? Should she just lie? But what about?
"I have a… there's something Kaira installed a while ago," she said, "that broke in the crash, and needed to be fixed."
Well, at least she wasn't lying. Kaira had installed the voice warping function. But would he take it? She knew it was a little vague.
And if he found out? She trusted him… right?

Cor raised a brow at her expression but gave a small nod. He could understand why Nora wouldn't want someone to mess up her friend’s modification… Though the rest of her explanation raised a few more questions. “So, kind of like your lightcycle. I hope I fixed that correctly then.” he hummed slightly. He had asked if there was anything special he needed to be aware of before he started… But she had said no.

Nora nodded. Her mind was racing. She wasn't usually one to jump to conclusions, but there was something in his expression that conveyed suspicion, wasn't there? The raised eyebrow, the look in his eyes? She took a breath and slipped off the stool. Maybe if she glossed it over, he wouldn't think too much of it. Or would he?
Think, Nora, think.
"The important thing is that it's fixed," she said. "Thank you."

Cor chuckled softly, recognizing what she was doing. But honestly, he couldn't judge since he had done the same thing quite a few times. “You’re welcome. And I really do hope I fixed it.” he managed to smile, gently reaching up to cup her face. He really did like her and did trust her but… If he wanted her to trust him, then it would be better not to push her.

"I hope you did too," Nora said with a smile, fluffing his hair softly.

Cor laughed at that. “That actually feels nice.” he admitted, smiling back and gently kissing her forehead. “Now… I believe I promised to show you something.” he added with a playful smirk.

"You did indeed," Nora said, her light lines pulsing a faint pink.

Cor smiled confidently and gently took her hand. “It’s this way.” he said softly, though his excitement was still audible as he started guiding her.

Nora stayed close to him as he walked her through the Recognizer, her heels clicking softly on the glossy black floor.

Cor smiled assuringly at her as they walked past several corridors and a few sealed doors, heading straight towards the main control room.

"This is a lot bigger than I thought it would be," Nora said as she followed him.