Originally part of this was supposed to be a setup for a commission. But over the last couple of days, Chaos and Gadget chewed on me enough to make it a 1.5 page scene. Gadget decides to take a tentative first step as she begins to warm up to Chaos.

January 15th 1999:

As she tried to read the manual for the generator she had been working in, Gadget grimaced upon realizing she couldn't concentrate. It took her nearly a minute to figure that she wanted some company. And not just anybody's; she desired Chaos's company. Though at the moment she didn't understand why.

Their relationship, if one could call it that, was becoming a confusing mess. They weren't exactly friends, but they weren't enemies either. Ever since they had spent half the night dancing together less than a month before, her willingness to antagonize him had come to a screeching halt. Now what she thought about it, he wasn't doing that either.

Gadget blinked as it sank in that they were increasingly seeking out each others company. She let out a vexed sigh, and got up to find him. After several long minutes, she found him watching TV. Without saying anything, she sat on the couch next to him, and pressed her back firmly against Chaos's right side before wrapping his arm around her waist. While the touch felt good, she had to admit it was still lacking.

Reaching down, she lifted up the bottom of her tank top, and moved his hand so it was resting on the bare skin of her waist. The warmth of his touch brought a rare smile to her face as she lowered her clothing to cover his hand. At the same time, she felt him nearly go rigid. “I really wish you wouldn't tense up so much.”

Surprised, Chaos wasn't sure how to react as he tried to process what was happening. Given their past, this was an unexpected move on her part. As he tried to relax, part of him wanted to remove his hand. And yet, he didn't want to do so. The warmth of the touch, combined with the firmness of her stomach, made his heart beat faster. And his blood ran hotter as he found himself starting to enjoy the sensation. “Sorry, I wasn't ready for this sort of physical contact. And I have to ask, why?”

“Because I wanted to spend some time with you,” Gadget replied softly as she started to read the manual. She felt her pulse quicken at the deliciousness of the touch. Maybe, just maybe, they could start to explore becoming more than friends. Assuming they called a truce first that was. “Time where we aren't fussing, and fighting. And because deep down, I think both of us need this.”

Over the last couple of months, they had been growing closer, or so it seemed. He wasn't quite sure if he hadn't wanted to start a relationship with her yet. At the same time, and as much as he didn't want to admit it, she was right. “I guess you might have a point.”

“I would have to say a bit stronger than might.” Gadget let out a chuckle. She let out a content sigh, and closed her eyes. It was so weird that the one guy she had bickered with would also be the one she growing increasingly comfortable being with. And was the one wanted to chase after. “I hope this is something we can start to do on a regular basis.”

“Are you sure?”

“Quite sure,” she answered with a grin even though he couldn't see it. “I know we aren't friends yet, but I can't deny how good it feels to have your arm around me. You have my permission to do this when we are alone. And yes, you can slide your hand, or hands, under my top to rest them on my stomach or waist. In fact, I want you to do so!”

“Wait, what? I mean, this seems awfully forward of you,” Chaos quickly protested. “Sure, it makes sense if were are a couple. But as you pointed out, we're not even friends.”

“Yet,” Gadget quickly countered as she tried to keep her temper in check. “Please don't ruin the moment. I know this a rather direct request since it might take some time before we call a truce. But as far as I'm concerned, you are the only one who gets to touch me in this sort of way. And to be honest, I trust you.”

As he tried to organize his thoughts, Chaos felt part of her tail become intertwined with his. Caught off guard by this, he twitched as if struck by a live wire. Such a simple touch by her made him feel amazing. But he it also made him feel terrified, and thrilled at the same time. After several long seconds, he realized he didn't know what to do next.

Gadget felt him twitch, and heard him let out a deep breath. She twisted slightly, and gave his thigh a reassuring touch. “I know this is new territory for both of us. I hope that we can enjoy this, and each others company. Yes, there is tension between us, but maybe it is time to resolve it. And start to explore new things.”

She left out that it was time stop fighting each other, along with themselves. Plus it was time to open up their hearts to let each other in. Assuming they could meet halfway. There had to be a way.

As he thought over her comment, Chaos closed his eyes as he commanded himself to relax. The situation felt surreal, but part of him hoped this was real. He began to wonder if they starting to develop feelings for each other. If so, if felt like something that shouldn't be happening. And yet, he couldn't deny that there was a bond starting to form between them.

Where would it take them? He didn't know, but he curious to find out.