Chapter Text
Paper looked around and wasn't quite sure where he was. Everywhere around him was a suffocating black void.
“Huh where am I?” Paper asked as he jumped up from where he was. He noticed that something moved behind him so he looked behind him. “What was that?”
Paper’s growing worries would quickly increase as he turned back around. In front of him was an odd looking version of his eyes. Unstable eyes with an unsettling atmosphere surrounded the piece of paper. Paper realized that this was who was recently causing all his ‘issues’.
“Currently, we’re located in a rather unstable location.” He said in a predatory tone. Paper could sense that something was wrong. Really, really wrong.
“This is my…head?” Paper asked, unsure.
“For the moment…” the other’s eyes looked back at Paper, smug written all over his features. “You’ve been having difficulties recently. In keeping it under your control.”
“I just don’t know what’s going on with me…” Paper closed his eyes slightly.
“Well. Lucky for you, these issues will come to an end.” Evil Paper’s voice started to get aggressive which made Paper wary of his next action. “Now.”
Before Paper could even get a grasp on what was said, he felt someone appear behind him. All in an instant, he was shoved to the ground.
“You’re weak! Pathetic! You might as well just hand over the key that unlocks your mind!” Evil Paper yelled as he glared at Paper.
“I would never!” Paper shoots daggers at Evil Paper as he pushes himself up into a sitting position.
“You don’t have much of a choice. It’s clear who is more suited to take over completely.” He kicks paper and keeps his foot on Paper’s chest. “And it isn’t you.”
Paper shut his eyes in pain. He knew that to some extent Evil Paper was right. He’s not suited for this. He’s betrayed people he called his friends, he’s lied, he got people killed. Even if he did end up winning, would it really feel like a win?
He’s compromised everything. And yet somehow his mind was the one thing that he really counted as an enemy. But Evil Paper is also the reason he’s partly gotten this far.
Wait.
“Wait. I have an idea that might work for the both of us.” Paper locks eyes with the other’s. The foot’s pressure hardens
“No.” Evil Paper hisses out bluntly. Paper grabs onto the leg and tries to take it off of himself. It doesn’t work very well but it’s enough for him to get some air.
“Just hear me out. You’ll be able to have some control!” Paper yells. Suddenly the pressure is lessened.
“Okay. I’m giving you two minutes to explain. Not because I’m going to agree, but because it would be ‘wrong’ to not let you at least try to get out of your defeat.” Evil Paper looks down at him with a frown. He keeps his foot where it’s at, not helping Paper’s nerves at all. But at least he’s being given a chance to explain.
“So we both want to win the million. You’re good at fighting, and I’m good at making alliances. I’m thinking that we team up. Combine our strengths to have a better chance. It’s better than being each other's downfall.” Paper explains as quickly as he can. Evil Paper’s face contorts into confusion the longer Paper explains.
“Like we would ever be a good team. You seriously think those animals out there want to be your friend?” He lets out a unhumorous chuckle. “Oh I knew you were an idiot but c'mon! How many times does Knife has to throw you the sharks to get through your stupid ideology?”
“You’re right, Knife is a jerk! But not all the competitors are! OJ has done more for me than anyone else.”
“Because he was using you for his own benefit! You were just too blinded by his lies of ‘allianceship’ to see that!” He steps hard into Paper’s chest, causing him to cry out in pain. “Out of everyone, he’s the fakest of them all!”
“No he’s not! I don’t know why you think of OJ like that, but you’re wrong! You just haven’t gotten to know him yet!” Paper yells through gritted teeth.
“You’re acting as if I actually want to know him! I could think of a million better things to do than to ever converse with that fraud!” He smiles a bit. “It’s not like I’ll have to deal with him after you're gone.
“Okay fine! You don’t have to talk with OJ. But just, ugh..” Paper falters. How was he supposed to get through to him?? Maybe he could add more to the deal? He doesn’t want to give him too much freedom, but at the same time Paper really doesn’t want to die.
“Tick tock, buddy.” Evil Paper whistles out, pressing harder.
Paper shuts his eyes tight. “You know they’ll just put you in jail after the competition! The million won’t even be worth anything then! Is that really what you want?! Locked up in a cell for the rest of your life?”
Paper opens his eyes to look at his evil counterpart, “deep down, you know you can’t win without me. And I…can’t win without you either.”
The two just stare at each other. Evil Paper takes his foot off of Paper.
“Stupid…” Evil Paper grits under his teeth. He rolls his eyes. “Fine. But don’t think I’m going to let those nobodies win.”
Paper lets out a sigh of relief at not being in complete pain anymore. “That’s the goal.”
“So what now? We go back to playing dress up and dolls?” Evil Paper crosses his arms.
“No. We play in a more strategic way.” Paper gets up from off the ground, brushing off his lower half. “This will never work if we don’t write out exactly what we want. I wouldn’t say it’s an alliance, it’s more of a coalition.”
“Hmm I guess that could work…” The other whispers out. Paper smiles.
“Good. So until the end of the game, we will listen to each other. But only when the request has a reason and isn’t morally wrong. Like killing people. No killing people.” Paper gives the other a knowing look. The receiver only glares at him.
“If that’s how we’re going to play this, then you don’t get to befriend anyone, or start an alliance, without my permission. And if I say to drop them, you don't hesitate.” He explains, his face being kept firm the entire time. Even with the two being the same height, Paper could practically feel the other tower over him.
Paper almost automatically agreed, but something stopped him. If they’re going to be equals now, he can’t be afraid of him. Partnerships mean equal power. If he plays into what the other wants, it’ll end up just like before.
For both his and others' sanity, he’s not going to let that happen.
He’s gotten this far, he’s not going to let it all be thrown away. If he really wants this, he has to prove it.
Paper takes a deep breath, “Fine. But there’s only one exception I want to make.”
The other seemingly already knows who Paper’s referring to and clenches his fists. “No.”
Paper stands his ground with a slight glare. “I owe OJ more than anyone else in this game. Without him, I know for a fact that we’ll fail.”
“Maybe you would. But with me in control, that’s not an issue.” Evil Paper says.
“Most of the challenges are team based. Trying to work through the game alone will ultimately backfire! You can’t just rely on yourself and think it’ll end well!” Paper argues.
“Doesn’t really help much if they all want to stab you in the back.” Evil paper grimaces.
“Trust me, I know. But I also know OJ won’t betray us. He’s not like-“ Paper cuts himself off, “I just know he won’t.”
“And isn’t that a reliable source.” Evil Paper replies sarcastically. Paper rolls his eyes.
“If you let me keep my alliance with OJ, you can have one thing that I won’t say no to. It can literally be anything.” Paper offers.
Evil Paper’s eyes light up in a way that Paper really doesn’t like. “Anything?”
“Anything except murder.” Paper reminds him. Making the other deflate in mood.
“Fine.” Evil Paper shrugs. “So anything else you want to wager?”
“Just one thing.” Paper can’t help but wring his hands together. “You have to pretend to be me til the end of the game.”
“….why?” Evil Paper asks, raising an eyebrow.
“It’s just, the others don’t feel comfortable around you. And I think the best way for us to get ahead is with their trust. And, no offense, but I think they’d be more willing to trust us if they thought it was only me.”
Evil Paper looks offended at first but then it shifts into something of interest. “Hmm, it’d be easier to use them and keep tabs on the backstabbing…”
Paper awkwardly waits for the other to finish his thinking. But eventually, the other seems to have his answer.
“Okay, but don’t expect me to be good at it. I still don’t like them at all. I’m only doing this to keep them in view.” Evil Paper explains.
“Yeah, but some effort is better than none…?” Paper slightly smiles, only to force it down.
“Hm. I guess.” Evil Paper sighs, “Okay anything else?”
Paper thinks for a second, “Not that I can think of. But we can always workshop things later.”
Evil Paper takes a firm stance and keeps his eyes level with Paper. It was intimidating, but somehow less than before. At least now Paper didn’t feel like he was going to get attacked at any second.
“From here til the end of the game, you will follow my every word. Listen when I say not to start an alliance. Follow through with my orders. And above all, you will let me out when necessary.” Evil Paper holds his hand out.
“And you will help us get to the end. You will let me keep my alliance with OJ. You won’t hurt, kill, or harass anyone. You will have some control when I permit it. And you will keep your presence on the down-low.” Paper holds his hand out.
Both hands connect and shake, “Deal.”
From that day onwards, the two started to work together. It took awhile for them to find a rhythm with their situation, but by the end of the game they somewhat got there.
The end wasn’t as rewarding as the two hoped it would’ve been. Paper had let OJ win due to OJ helping him get through the game. But also because Paper felt some guilt about keeping Evil Paper a secret from him.
Evil Paper was not happy at all, as expected. He spent a few days away and didn’t talk to Paper when he came back.
It wasn’t until the opening of ‘Hotel OJ’ that Evil Paper started acknowledging Paper again. The topic of the event never came up between the two. Mainly because Paper didn’t want to scare Evil Paper off and start back at stage 1.
The hotel was a nice addition to their little home. It was roomy and extremely lively when the contestants moved in. Overall everything was going great!
Except for one thing.
That thing being that Evil Paper hated everything that the hotel stood for.
The conversation that Paper and Evil paper had the night the hotel opened was not exactly one Paper enjoyed.
“C’mon it’s not that bad! I’m sure it’ll grow on you! Yeah, you just got to get accustomed to the place-“
“I DONT WANT TO BE HERE!” Evil Paper snapped. “In what universe do you think I’d find this place ENJOYABLE?!”
“It hasn’t even been a day-“
“And it’s been hell for me! Seriously I didn’t think it was possible but this place is 1000% worse than the competition.” Evil paper grimaced.
“Only because you’re not used to it yet. I’m not fond of it either…but it’ll be okay.”
Evil Paper scoffed and gave him a look. “Oh yeah because poor little you is having such a difficult time having the ability to live with your friends! Being with people that actually like you. Being around people who smile when they see you. It’s just so FUCKING HARD TO BE YOU IN THIS SITUATION ISN'T IT?!”
Paper took a step back trying to fully understand what was being said. “Woah, where is this coming from?”
Paper slowly made his way to Evil Paper, who was currently glaring at Paper. Evil Paper backed up a bit from him. “Oh SHUT UP. Don’t tell me you think I’m just going to be fine with this. I was fine pretending in the competition, but this is a whole new low for me.”
Paper titled his head, “but you said you were fine with pretending in our deal-“
“Yeah! For the competition! NOT. FOREVER.” Evil Paper rolled his eyes. “I leave for a few weeks and suddenly everything is completely different! It’s concerning how you manage to get yourself into these situations. It’s even more annoying that I have to get us out of them.”
Paper glanced down at the floor, guilt written over his face. “I know. I know…but it’s just, I had to. OJ seemed so excited and it was hard not to show the same. Bedsides, it’s not like you were here to voice an opinion…”
Evil Paper took a step towards Paper, Paper instinctively stepped back. “Oh yeah, like you would’ve listened! Based on what happened during Tile Terror, I don’t really think you even care about my opinion.”
Paper immediately sprung his head up to look at him “I do care about your opinion! Tile Terror was an exception because I really did owe OJ. I know you were against it and I’m sorry I couldn’t listen to you. But please don’t see that as how I view your opinions.”
Evil Paper was quiet for a moment, “Then surely you wouldn’t be mad if we left, right?”
Paper froze for a second. “What…what do you mean?”
Evil Paper formed a slight smirk on his face at Paper’s response. “Yknow, leaving the hotel. Leaving the contestants. Leaving everything. Leaving every little thing about the show and starting fresh. Make a life just for us.”
Paper could only stare in shock at his counterpart. Maybe it was all the stress from the past week catching up with him. Or maybe it was that he honestly just wanted to sleep and not deal with this. But this is what got his head to go quiet.
“That’s a bit much…don’t ya think?” Paper questioned.
“You’re acting as if they’d miss us.” Evil Paper let out a huff, “look at how they treat balloon. Won’t even let the guy on hotel grounds! How do you think they’ll treat us once they find out I’m still here? I don’t think they’ll be too keen on keeping a murderer on their turf.”
Paper rubs his arm awkwardly, “Well they let knife in so there’s a chance they’ll give you a second chance!”
“They only let knife in because they felt threatened by him. And sure, I could threaten them too. But what’d be the point in that? I’m not going to fight for something I don’t even want.”
Paper nodded slightly. “Okay fair, but knife is a totally different case. He’s…him. And you’re a part of me. Which might help our odds? Even just a little?”
Evil Paper rolled his eyes. “We wouldn’t have to deal with any of this if we just left.”
“But I don’t want to leave!” Paper snapped, “I know you don’t like it, but I really want this hotel to happen. It’s all OJ could talk about when the competition ended. I can’t just leave him after all that. It wouldn’t be fair.”
Evil Paper stared at him blankly for a second. “I can’t believe you sometimes.”
“What do you-“
“Just shut up.” Evil Paper replied rather softly, way softer than he usually would. “Fine. Go live your fantasy life with your fake friends. But don’t come crying to me when it all falls over.”
Paper can’t help but frown. He almost reached out but he knew it would be a bad idea. So instead he settles for slowly walking up to Evil Paper. Still keeping his distance but it’s enough to where they can properly see each other.
“I know you’re upset. But I don’t want you to feel like you have to hide.” Paper sighs. “I know I tried to force you out when you first showed up. But I don’t feel that way about you anymore. You’re not just some part of me and I know it’ll be difficult. But I think it would benefit both of us if you at least tried to stay at the hotel. Just for a bit.”
Evil Paper looks at him, “You really think that’s a good idea?”
Paper shrugs, “not really, but you deserve to have a life too. I think the hotel would help you find who you really are. Maybe even make some friends.”
Evil Paper takes a second to think before sighing. “I miss when you were a pushover…”
Paper instantly brightens up, “so does that mean you’ll try?”
“Not like I got a choice….” Evil Paper grumbles. Paper smiles wide at the response. “But I want our rules to change.”
Paper slowly lets his smile fall, “oookay. Which ones did you want to change?”
“I want more freedom. A few hours to myself everyday.” Evil Paper replies.
Paper squints his eyes slightly, “I don’t think that’s a good idea…”
“I let you have a few hours to yourself, why can’t I have the same?!”
“Well I don’t like not knowing what you’re doing and I don’t want to risk you hurting someone or yourself.” Paper answers. “It’s not even just you. I’m worried that I’ll do something like that too. All I’m saying is that we should wait and get settled before making any major changes.”
Evil Paper grumbles something under his breath. “Fine. I’ll be patient.”
Paper smiles slightly, “Good. So we’re not in a fight anymore?”
“We’ll always be in a fight. But for now, we’re on okay terms.” Evil Paper says casually.
Paper nodded and went back to the outside world. He spent most the night enjoying what quiet he could have before it was gone. After all, the next few months would be hectic.
It didn’t even take 24 hours before everything went from 100% to 1000% more stressful for Paper.
The morning started off normal, well as normal as you can get. But it was a normal that Paper knew he had to get used to eventually.
Distant yelling and things falling over, the mixture of soft and fast footsteps hitting the floor, slamming doors and quick greetings. It was almost as if they’d live here for years instead of a whole day.
Paper couldn’t really complain. It was nice to know that everyone was getting settled in nicely.
He got ready and headed downstairs. The smell of breakfast hit him as he went down the stairs. When he looked out, he saw a whole buffet set out on a table. Mostly everyone seemed to be in higher energy than normal. Some groups were more reserved than others, but it warmed a part in Paper a way he never felt before.
Paper looked around and spotted OJ. He quickly walked over to him with a smile. “Hey OJ! It’s nice to see that everyone’s making themselves at home!”
OJ returned the smile when he saw Paper, “Yeah tell me about it. It’s only been 16 minutes and almost all the food is gone. Plus I’ve had to break up like 3 fights…”
OJ sounded slightly exhausted but Paper could see that he was happy. Paper could recognize the fond look in his eyes from anywhere.
“Well it’s probably just the excitement getting to them is all. I’m sure they’ll be calmed down in a few days…hopefully” Paper relied, rather unsurely but he was trying to be positive for OJ. He looked like he needed it.
OJ laughed a bit, “I’m not sure there’s a time this group’s ever ‘calm’, but thanks.”
Paper let out a hum as a reply. The two stood there for a bit until OJ jumped in his place. “Oh I forgot! I got too caught up in preparing everything. One moment I’ll be right back.”
Paper watched as OJ ran to the table and came back with a glass cup and spoon in hand. He stood besides Paper and clanked the spoon on the glass cup, effectively gathering everyone’s attention.
“Everyone! I have an announcement!” OJ yelled, “I’m very glad that everyone is enjoying themselves. This hotel has taken a lot of time, effort, and sleepless nights. But it’s finally here! And I know the hotel is in my name and all, but I’d like to announce that the hotel will have a co-owner.”
Paper instantly froze as OJ looked at him. Paper could practically feel as everyone else's eyes followed. Suddenly his hands felt a little too clammy for him to be comfortable. His hand caught onto his arm to try and help the pressure building.
‘I can kill him if he’s making you that uncomfortable.’ A voice suddenly said. Which honestly made Paper more freaked out.
‘No! I’m fine. I’m just…’ Paper totally lost his train of thought once OJ started talking again.
“Starting today, Paper will be my right hand man in operating this hotel! This is not an excuse for some of you to use him as an errand boy.” OJ said obviously looking at a certain bully. “Treat him as you would treat me. If there are any problems, I’m not against eviction notices.”
OJ let the room go quiet for a bit. Paper noticed that a few people were getting worried about the threat. Which both helped and didn’t help the worry in Paper.
“Now with that announcement out of the way, everyone enjoy yourselves! But try not to break anything. Please, I already have 3 lamps I need to replace.” OJ hit the glass one last time and the room started up with noise again.
Paper could only look in front of him and try to process what the heck just happened. He turned to OJ. “When did you decide to make me a co-owner?”
‘Wait you didn’t know about this?’ The voice in his head said.
‘NO???’ Paper thought back. He tried to think back on if OJ even brought the idea up before and there was nothing.
OJ just gave him a slight shrug, “Oh I’ve been thinking of making you one since I ever thought of Hotel OJ. It’s true I need help around here and it’s not like there’s anyone I trust more. Besides, I don’t think anyone else would be interested or qualified. So who better than you?”
‘Who the fuck does this guy think he is?! He didn’t even consider your response!’ Evil Paper practically screamed in Paper’s ear.
“Well I’m flattered OJ but uh…” Paper faltered for a moment. He looked at OJ’s face a second. He seemed so…happy. Paper can’t ruin that for him.
‘YES YOU CAN! If you don’t, I will!’ Evil Paper yelled. Paper tried to ignore him, but it didn’t really work.
‘It couldn’t hurt to try?’ Paper offered. He could almost feel the other’s eyes stare into the back of his head.
‘Are you actually being serious? This is so obviously a ploy to use you! Decline and move on!’
Paper thought about it, but for some reason he couldn’t find the words to use. It’s not that he didn’t want the position. It’s more that it was so sudden. But OJ didn’t know that.
“But what?” OJ’s smile slowly falls and melts into confusion. Paper looked at his expression and couldn’t help himself.
“Oh uh,” Paper scrambled around for an excuse. “But I’m just surprised you announced it so early is all. It’s a lot to take in…”
“Yeah sorry about that. I just wanted to start the day off strong. I’m glad you’re up for the position though! Well, you are, aren't you?” OJ stared at him expectantly.
‘Decline.’
“Of course I am! Why wouldn’t I be?” Paper responded with a smile.
‘You motherfuc-‘ Paper shoved all the noise to the back of his mind.
“Great! I’ll call you later so we can go over some stuff. For now just enjoy breakfast.” OJ grinned and walked off to go talk to some of the others.
Paper let out a heavy sigh and before he could tell what was happening, he was shoved back for a second. His voice dropped an octave “Asshole.”
Paper immediately fought to be back in control and tried his best to ground himself. ‘Please don’t do that again.’
‘Be glad I didn’t actually do anything.’ The other voiced in an unamused tone.
Paper shook off the implications of the statement and got some food. He talked a bit and tried his best to pretend things were normal.
Deep down he knew it was only an act. But it was something that he could hold onto. And was it really that bad if it helped? Even just a little?
Probably, but Paper’s not ready for that conversation yet.
Working as a co-owner wasn’t necessarily bad. It was strange for Paper to be in a position of power, sure. But it was a lot more casual than he would’ve thought.
OJ took on most of the responsibility in all fairness. Paper tried to help out where he could, but he was inexperienced in a lot of fields.
The two found a compromise where OJ could be the face man of the hotel while also taking care of the financials. Meanwhile, Paper would make sure the hotel didn’t burn down and all the residents were happy!
All things considered, it worked out pretty well! Paper didn’t mind his role since it was pretty simple. Most fights broke themselves up and if they didn’t, Paper just let them talk it out.
Paper also overlooked activities and classes that were requested. Which worked fine with him. Sometimes he even participated in the events.
Everything was going great. The only issue Paper could sense was that Evil Paper was being impatient. And being impatient apparently made him extremely annoying.
Every time Paper found himself enjoying something, his counterpart would ruin it. Or at least voice his opinion a little too loudly.
Talking with someone?
‘They’re going to backstab you once they find out.’
Doing his job?
‘If they hate each other that much, why don’t they just resort to murder?’
Party getting crashed by Balloon?
‘That’ll be us one day and you know it.’
Talking with OJ?
‘Die. Die. Die. I hope you fall down a flight of stairs and die.’
Needless to say, Paper was having a hard time keeping it together.
It wasn’t always threats and yelling. Well unless OJ was around but that’s different. Most of the time, Evil Paper was quiet and didn’t cause too much of a disturbance. Paper was just glad he wasn’t taking over and saying the things he was thinking.
Paper sometimes talked to Evil Paper to see if that would help him not be so mad. But it never lasted long. A lot of their conversations were a lot of back and forth between ethical reasoning and decisions.
It always ended with Paper giving up, because there was no point fighting in a losing battle.
Paper slowly came to terms that Evil Paper was just going to be around constantly. Not because he wanted to. But mainly so he could drive Paper to the brink of insanity.
And sadly, it was kinda working. Not to the point where he wouldn’t be able to function. But it was getting to where he wanted to go in his mind for a month, just so he could have some quiet.
He knew it would be a horrible idea, so he suffered through the pain. But the thought was still tempting at times.
After a while, Paper began to think that Evil Paper genuinely wanted to hurt him. Maybe not in a physical way, but definitely in an emotional and psychological way.
It wasn’t until he was relaxing in the living room, watching as Bomb was messing with one of the console controllers. Apparently the thing wasn’t working and Bomb thought hitting it repeatedly would help.
Paper was patiently waiting to see if he’d have to step in. But Bomb was starting to get violent and the remote flew out of his hands towards Paper.
Immediately fear enveloped him and he found himself in the back of his mind. He looked back to the front and saw that Evil Paper took control.
Evil Paper grabbed the remote with one hand and crushed it without a thought. He angrily glared at Bomb. “Watch it.”
Bomb froze with fear and ran off screaming. Evil Paper tossed the broken remote in the bin next to him. He looked down at his hand and it had some cuts. “Oh.”
Paper tried to take back front, but he couldn’t. ‘Why can’t I-‘
“Relax.” Evil Paper said as if that was helping.
‘Bring me back now!’ Paper yelled. ‘Please.’
Evil Paper rolled his eyes. “In a minute. I need to fix our hand.”
‘I can just fix it myself!’ Paper offered in a somewhat desperate tone. Evil Paper simply ignored him and headed for the infirmary.
It wasn’t a big room by any means, but it had supplies. Evil Paper opened up random doors trying to find gauzes. Eventually, he found them and wrapped up their hand.
It didn’t hurt much, but they really didn’t need an infection. So this was the better alternative than to just leave cuts out in the open. Besides it kinda helped EvIl Paper feel more in place. The pressure of the gauze helped slow down their nerves. The world around him seemed more…stabilized in a way.
That was until Mr. Narcissist himself walked into the room. Right as Evil Paper saw him, he was flooded with anger and distaste. OJ, of course, was oblivious to this.
“Hey so Bomb just told me that you crushed a remote.” OJ looked down at the wrapped hand and awkwardly met Evil Paper’s eyes. “What’s that about?”
‘Hey your boss is calling for you!’ Evil Paper called into the mindscape. But there wasn’t a response for some reason. ‘Wimp.’
Evil Paper coughed a bit and tried to replicate Paper’s voice as best as he could. “He was getting too rough and I didn't want him to get hurt. I tried to calm him down and he got mad. Remote got crushed, any questions?”
OJ looked at him strangely before turning his gaze to the floor. “No, just trying to get a full picture is all. He didn’t get your hand, did he?”
Evil Paper glared at OJ and wanted to tell him to leave him alone, but fought against it. “Kinda? It’s fine. I took care of it.”
OJ nodded a little, “if you say so. Next time just be more careful, okay? I know he’s a lot, but I don’t want you getting injured.”
Evil Paper saw OJ turn to him. They locked eyes and everything in his body suddenly felt a thousand times heavier. That fucking look he was giving him…it hurt. It hurt a lot.
OJ gave him a small smile, “Well I’ll see you later at dinner. It’s spaghetti and meatballs with salad. It took me a while to make, but it’ll be worth it.”
OJ cast one more look at Evil Paper’s hand. “Also remember to change the gauze, I know you forget to do that sometimes.”
And then he left. Evil Paper could only stare at the door helplessly. For some reason, he was half expecting OJ to come back and call him out. Yell at him, kick him out of the hotel, anything. And yet…nothing.
He frowned and closed his eyes. ‘You still alive?’
Suddenly a voice could be heard. ‘Yeah but what happened?’
Evil Paper acknowledged it was Paper. ‘Not much. Don’t worry, nothing’s changed.’
He could hear Paper sigh from a distance. ‘Good.’
Evil Paper slowly felt the feeling of the gauze drift away from him. He didn’t even bother trying to latch back on. He let the feeling of Paper take control and settle into place.
Paper looked down at their hand and freaked out. “What happened?!”
‘Bomb was being annoying. It’s fine.’ Evil Paper explained. ‘…also I’ll change our gauze in the morning.’
Paper raised an eyebrow but didn’t comment anything. Evil Paper didn’t speak much that week.
Nothing special really happened after that event. But Paper could sense that something was different about Evil Paper. It just couldn’t tell as to what.
He was normal when someone was making him mad. But other than that, he was oddly quiet. Especially when they were alone.
Before, it was just him ignoring Paper. But now it felt like Paper was being avoided. Which set off a lot of alarm bells.
Paper tried to get him to talk, but he’d get no response. It was aggravating in a way, but Paper just figured he’d come around eventually.
He also noticed that there were less threats against OJ. Name calling was still relevant, but it was more in a sarcastic manner than before.
Paper tried to find a why in all these new behaviors, but ultimately found no answer. So, he just enjoyed it for what it was worth. It made working less stressful and it reduced his headaches by a lot.
Things were good, albeit a little concerning.
And then season 2 happened.
The hotel getting hit by a plane was not a great experience. And neither was finding out that MePhone was back.
Evil Paper…had some words to say that day. A lot of words that Paper’s not even sure he can repeat.
Neither of them had an issue with the new contestants or the fact that some of the current residents would be going back to the competition. It made Paper’s job much calmer, he’s not going to complain.
Besides, the hotel had a lot of work to be done so it’s not like he even had the time to properly do his job .
Getting OJ to relax was a job itself. Paper lost count of how many times he’d catch OJ working on the hotel late at night.
It took a few nights, but eventually he got OJ on a regular sleep schedule again.
And then the whole ‘finding voted out contestants in a broom closet’ situation happened.
As soon as Paper and Evil Paper found out about that, both of them were rightfully upset. One of them pissed off and the other empathetic towards the contestants.
So when OJ asked them “Do you mind helping me with the court case?” Obviously they said yes.
It wasn’t much of a surprise that Paper was hit with a sense of tension when he walked into the courtroom. It bothered him for a second before being reminded that there was no way he could lose this.
He made his way up to one of the stands and waited until the judge gave the go to start.
OJ stood beside him and even though he looked mad, Paper found some comfort in just his presence being there.
“May the case of the people of hotel Orange Juice vs MePhone 4, now commence.” The judge stated and Paper saw that as a perfect way to start his argument.
“Your honor, MePhone had used OJ’s property to commit the crime of unlawful detention.” Paper explained, trying his best to keep calm. “He has a history of keeping people in holding against their wills. I would know! I was one of the victims of it.”
“Well Mr. Paper, I believe that makes you biased against the defendant soooo-“ Mepad started saying before getting cut off by Toilet.
‘Can I take over?’ Evil Paper asked from the back. Paper wanted to decline, since he knew how Evil Paper gets when the competition gets brought up. But the more he thought it out, the more it made sense to have a first hand witness to tell the truth.
‘Okay, but you have to keep yourself contained.’ Paper ordered. Evil Paper rolled his eyes.
‘Yeah, yeah.’ Evil Paper simply said before pushing to front. He took in the scene around him and then made eye contact with Mepad.
“I may be biased but doesn’t that make me a more liable source? I’ve witnessed his cruelty first hand and I dealt with it longer than anyone else.” Evil Paper made direct eye contact with the judge. “Your honor, MePhone 4 has done a lot of bad things these past few years. Ranging from mild assault to unreported murder. I personally was a victim of his psychological abuse. He kept me in a cage for years and had to go weeks without contact from anyone. There was nothing there but the sun beating down on me and the metal bars keeping me caged. It got to the point where I didn’t care anymore. I didn’t care about consequences or morality. I just wanted freedom. I wanted to be anything other than just a forgotten extra he could toss to the side and forget about. I wanted my life back! I wanted to feel like myself again! He single handedly broke my mind and he doesn’t even seem to have any remorse about it! No, you want to know what he did? He put a mentally unstable person BACK into the competition he was forced out of! No checkup, no therapy, no anything! And somehow I’M the bad guy for simply trying to survive-“
“Okay Mr. Paper, I think we’ve heard all we need to hear.” The judge spoke softly.
Evil Paper wanted to go up there and finish his statement. But looked around at everyone’s faces and realized that maybe he did get the point across.
He let out a heavy sigh, “thank you for your time.”
The judge nodded and moved his eyes to MePhone, “Do you confess that you did all that?”
MePhone looked around the room awkwardly, “Well there was a lot more to the story, but if we’re dumbing it down then; yes.”
The judge nodded. “Very well. MePhone 4 you will be held to 7 days in jail.”
MePhone cried out in panic but was dragged out nonetheless. Evil Paper however, was pissed. He practically shoved Paper back into front so he could get his frustration out in their head.
Paper was also mad about the situation, but was able to hold it in until everyone made it back to the hotel. He slammed his door shut as soon as he made it to his room.
“Well that was dumb.” Paper stated blankly, sliding down to the floor with his back to the door. Evil Paper immediately showed up and started yelling
‘I KNOW! Can you even believe that the judge only gave him seven days?! He deserves a lifetime with the amount of shit he put us through! I should’ve killed him when I had the chance, we wouldn’t be in this situation if I did!’
Paper stretched out his arms a bit, “why does it always have to go back to murder?”
‘Because out of everyone, he deserves it the most! OJ’s a close second but at least he didn’t lock us up and treat us like some rapid animal! Oh wait, HE DID!’ Evil Paper started mumbling some random stuff after that.
Paper simply closed his eyes. “Hey, at least we won? Don’t have to deal with going bankrupt now”
‘I don’t care about going bankrupt or winning! I want him to suffer! MePhone’s going to have to worry about not dying because the next time I see him, it’s on sight.’ Evil Paper rambled. Paper could only sigh.
“Well, we have a week so enjoy it for what you can.” Paper offered dryly. He was about to go to sleep right there on the floor, but a knock on his door woke him right up.
Paper slowly got up and opened the door a bit. He locked eyes with OJ. “Oh hi, what are you doing here?”
“Hey Paper, I just wanted to talk about what you said at the courthouse.” OJ said, obviously awkward as hell but Paper didn’t mind.
Paper opened the door a bit more, “okay, come on in.”
OJ waked in and made himself at home by sitting down on the bed. Paper sat down next to him.
“So, how are you? After all that?” OJ asked, worry dripping from his words. Paper gave a weak smile in return.
“I’ve been better, but I’ll be okay.” Paper responded.
“I know, but it couldn’t have been easy to talk about something like that. I had no idea how bad it really was…” OJ explained.
‘It wasn't easy, idiot.’ Evil Paper spoke up in the back.
“Yeah it wasn’t, but it served as a good time to call MePhone out. Plus to heal some part of me that held resentment towards him.” Paper said, messing with his fingers in his lap.
“Well that’s good then. Still I feel a little guilty about not noticing sooner. Or how it could’ve affected you…” OJ frowned.
‘Oh great, here he goes making it all about himself again!’ Evil Paper complained.
‘He’s just being nice…’ Paper defended.
“It’s okay. You couldn’t have known. Besides, I’m better now. It doesn’t bother me as much.” Paper responded truthfully. Evil Paper’s comments kind of serve as a good distraction sometimes.
“I don’t know. I think if I had to deal with a murderous psycho as a brain roommate, I’d be bothered for life.” OJ let out a little laugh, but let it die when Paper didn’t laugh.
In fact, Paper just stared at him because what else do you do in that situation? It’s fine if Paper and Evil Paper make those comments or jokes because they live it. Everyday. They know the struggle and they argue about it. But it’s also where they start when they look at their growth as people. Having someone else say it, it becomes a reminder not just a memory.
“Get out.” Evil Paper glared at OJ and pointed towards the door. OJ immediately looked taken aback by this.
“Oh sorry, it was a joke. I thought it would’ve been fine.” OJ tried to explain. Sadly both of his listeners didn’t care.
Paper stole front back, “Yeah maybe don’t make those jokes.”
“Okay I won’t anymore, promise.” OJ shifted around awkwardly, “so, did you still want me to leave?”
‘Yes.’
“No. You’re fine.” Paper gave him a slight smile. He could feel the anger gnaw at his chest.
“Okay, good.” OJ shared the smile back. The two then started talking about random stuff. The tension still was there, making some sentences more forced than others. But the longer they talked, the more normal words formed into sentences.
Soon it was reaching around 4 hours since they started talking. Neither of them wanted to stop, but hotel duties had to be taken care of.
OJ said bye to Paper and left the room. Paper sat down on the mattress and stared at the ceiling with a smile on his face.
‘He’s still a jerk, you know that right?’ Evil Paper asked. Paper shrugged.
“No he’s not. He’s just a very one track guy. If his mind’s on one thing, it’s hard to steer it away from him. But he’s not a bad person.” Paper explained with a smile still prominently displayed.
‘Whatever.’ Evil Paper then went away. Paper hummed and figured that he should get some hotel duties done too. After all, he’ll have a few hours to himself. Might as well make them count.
The hotel over the next few months grew more and more lively. Eliminated contestants would be encouraged to live at the hotel. Paper would be lying if he said he wasn’t finding it to be fun to meet the new people. And to see how much his past competitors have changed too.
Some things stayed the same, but a lot changed. Mainly with the competitors and also the feel of everything, really. Everything seemed a lot more stressful than before.
Even Evil Paper could tell something was up. But they both tried their best to not bring too much attention to it. OJ didn’t seem concerned so they shouldn’t be either. Well that was Paper’s logic at least. Evil Paper just called him stupid and left.
Paper just tried to live life as normal as he could. But it was getting difficult to when contestants kept showing up in tears or exhausted. The game was meant to be fun, not draining. Paper held some hope that MePhone would change after being sent to court. But apparently he was still making people suffer.
Paper brought up the idea of an investigation into the games to see if they could shut down the entire thing. But OJ and the few other people he brought it up to said it wouldn’t be worth it. A lot of them explained that it wasn’t MePhone causing the distress, it was team complications getting in the way.
Either way, it didn’t make Paper stop worrying that something bad was going to happen sooner or later. Or that something bad had already happened without him knowing.
Bow was already a horrible situation that he doesn’t want to happen again. And it might be selfish to think, but he also didn’t want someone going through what he went through.
Sure, there’s YingYang but those two were completely separate people. Paper and Evil Paper didn’t get that luxury. Somehow one way or another, whenever they look in the mirror they see the other in it. Even for a fraction of a second, it’s a constant reminder that you’re not the only you. And it’s difficult to stick to the opinion that there is a ‘you’ at all.
It took a while for things to feel normal again. Lots of activities to get the new residents to feel at home, and lots of food and game nights. But they got there. Things finally felt peaceful in a way.
OJ and Paper were on a good schedule with managing the hotel. OJ still had his deal with MePhone and it was working well. And all the current residents seemed pleased.
It didn’t start to get weird until contestants stopped showing up for a few weeks. It was by the 5th week that everyone started getting concerned. Some people had started planning out search parties, but weren't too sure if it would be okay or not. So they held off on it.
Everything stayed unanswered until OJ came in with a bunch of letters one day. Everyone crowded around and there were only letters to a few people. One of which being OJ.
‘YOU have won the prestigious prize of V.I.P. Tickets to Spoiled Lemon! Interested in seeing the band LIVE by a sandy seashore with music, food, and fun? Well why wait! There’s a boat landing by the beach on Sunday. No tagalongs. See you there :)
- totally not mysterious letter’
“Hmmmm seems odd…” commented balloon who was staring intently at his letter.
“Eh, who cares? It’s a free concert, I’m not going to pass that up.” Nickel said with a confident smirk.
“It being free is exactly why it’s suspicious.” Test tube explained.
“Who are you again?” Nickel asked seemingly serious. Test tube just shook her head disappointingly down at him.
“Well I say we go! It’ll only be a day trip so what’s the harm?” OJ offered. Some people still stood unsure. “If you don’t want to go, you can stay here. There’s four days til the boat gets here. So there’s plenty of time to decide.”
“But who will take care of the hotel?” Yin asked, Yang answered the question before anyone else could. “Obviously Paper! Stupid Yin.”
OJ rolled his eyes at the two’s interaction and turned to Paper, “You sure you can handle it?”
Paper let out an empty laugh, “I’m sure I can handle the hotel for a day, OJ.”
OJ giggled a bit “okay okay, just making sure.”
OJ counted that 10 of the residents would be gone, himself included. Paper made sure to take a mental note of who would be gone.
Paper couldn’t help but notice that everyone was trying to get as much time together as they could. Game nights were packed, the hallways were louder with chatter, and everything overall seemed more lively.
Paper tried his best to enjoy it for as much as he could. After all, things would be different in a few days from now.