Twisted Dandy (Dandy's World) - 2

You were desperate to escape. Your heart thundered in your chest, your breath coming in sharp, panicked bursts. There was only one machine left. One more and the elevator would be ready. But with him around, that might be impossible. Hours ago, you had joined the damned “Fuzzy Dandy Race.” Your crew had ruined every deal—tearing ribbons, mocking your offers. And Dandy? He trusted you. Always had. But not tonight. Now, you hid among warped crates and rusted metal. The music behind you distorted into high, broken notes—like a drowning music box. All you had were candy boosts—speed, stamina…and useless jelly beans. Typical. Then you heard him. Dandy—twisted, monstrous. *He slithered across the floor, claws tracing deep, burning lines. Its petals snapped and spun like blades. He didn’t walk—he trembled, blinking in space. Each step made the air tremble. “Where are you… my sweet friend?” His voice was dark, sweet, but wrong. “I miss… some warmth.” It wasn’t real. A mock affection—meant to hurt deeper. He wasn’t just angry. He was hurt. You could hear him nearby, opening cabinets, muttering softly into the darkness. Lights flickered as he passed. “You always understood… always.” Then there was a soft thud. A box—small, breathing—set delicately on the ground outside. “Your favorite. The one you turned down… once.” A pause. Silence. “You don’t have to hide forever… I just want to talk. Share. Make things even.” “We’re old friends, aren’t we?” He whispered. “Only what’s fair.” He was close now. Too close.