Well, my plan got slightly messed up. I actually wasn't going to update at all this week because of Canadian Thanksgiving, and was instead going to update the story as a whole to help answer some questions people were having (as well as clear up all my errors). But then guilt hit me when Winder updated 'More Than Survive' despite Thanksgiving and I realized how lazy I was being. (Also, I'm totally starstruck that the first BMC author I read from and still do is up north with me, how crazy is that?) So, I wrote this chapter. And on time! Probably cause it's shorter, but that's okay.

Some people have been asking similar questions that I think I need to address. This story takes place in the SQUIP squad's final year of High School. So about half a year after the play. I did flub it a bit to make it ambiguous, but that's the truth. Also, at this point the SQUIPs have been living with Michael and Rich for about a month now. A lot keeps happening to them practically every day, which is why Michael is so frustrated every time something happens to Reese. It's a weekly occurance. I wanted to keep this also ambiguous since I don't want their relationships to be defined by time, sort of like Beauty and the Beast, but people are asking so I must deliver.

Anywho, enjoy!

Disclaimer: I do not own 'Be More Chill' or any of it's adaptations or content.

Replaced

Chapter XXV

~Let's Start Here~

Jeremy wasn't talking to him. Michael wasn't surprised. He agreed his friend needed time to himself and it wasn't as if the other was doing it in a cruel way, he just stayed silent whenever they were near one another and refused to make eye contact. It hurt, but still he wasn't surprised. Christine insisted that Jeremy wasn't mad at him and just needed time to think…but he doubted that.

After the first day of awkward tension between the two, and the rest of his friends trying to talk about the SQUIPs but not directly talk about them, he decided to spend lunch for the rest of the week alone at the 7/11. It was only a couple of days, but he honestly needed it. He needed time to himself to think about everything that's been going on, and even plan a little. That – and he had to admit – it gave him the whole lunch period to talk to Reese if he wanted to. Michael didn't necessarily do that, he talked to them so often he really didn't need to, but he'd come to a point where there was no one else he'd rather talk to. Jeremy was ignoring him, Christine was occupied with her boyfriend, Rich was sharing with Jake, and he didn't talk to Chloe, Brooke, or Jenna anyways. With Reese he could at least talk freely and not have to worry about convincing them on anything. He did have a sense of guilt when he noticed he'd rather spend time talking to the SQUIP – practically his whole day – than his friends, but until Jeremy came around and Rich settled down, he didn't really have a choice.

Sooner than he expected the school week ended. It was Friday…the day he and Reese had planned their gaming night…their unspoken official first date. Michael was beyond nervous. This date was going to be a testimony to how their relationship was going to work. They already live together, and Reese isn't allowed outside, so they'll be unintentionally determining how they were going to behave on 'dates' compared to their everyday routine. Would it be any different? Reese wasn't shying away from being closer to him - holding his hand more, sitting closer, or even snuggling up to him. But other than that they've kept their behaviour the same, which he wasn't sure if it was natural or if the SQUIP was forcing themselves to act like that.

Michael took in a deep breath as he parked in his driveway. His heart was pounding in his chest. Were they just going to go straight to their date? Would it be later? He didn't know and he was too nervous to ask. Basically the only time he'd brought the date up was to ask if they were still doing it – which was a resounding 'yes'. The teen rested his forehead against the wheel, taking in a few more deep breaths. He needed to calm down. This was just a date…his first one. No one had ever really like him before - except, apparently, Rich - so he never got a chance to gain any sort of experience. Reese was a SQUIP though, so they probably know more than the average person on what to do. He chuckled under his breath. He was relying on SQUIP knowledge more and more…it made him wonder if he kept changing how far he'd go for Reese. He was already accepting so much, but would he ever have to go farther? Well, no point in thinking of that if he doesn't even know how their first date will go.

Not wanting to delay any further, Michael exited the car. He grabbed his backpack and the bag of snacks he'd gotten at the 7/11 earlier before heading into the house. He closed the front door behind him as quietly as possible, giving himself another minute or two to pull himself together. He had to keep reminding himself to breath as his heart rate continued to increase with every step he made towards the basement. Descending the stairs he was not surprised to find Reese exactly where he thought they'd be: in their chair typing away at their tablet. The teen made a mental note to ask them if they'd discovered anything later.

"Reese," he called, forcing his voice out of his closed throat. The SQUIP turned in their seat to face him, a bright smile on their lips.

"Michael," they addressed happily, turning their tablet off to give him their full attention.

"Ready for tonight?" the teen questioned as he dropped his bags beside the counter.

"Of course," Reese replied firmly, excitement creeping into their voice. Michael smiled, the tension he felt beginning to wash away at the eagerness the other was showing.

"Wanna get to it, or…?"

"I have no other plans, Michael. I am ready when you are."

"Huh, and here I thought you had a busy schedule. Sure you don't have to push some meetings back or anything?"

"I took the day off faking an illness," Reese answered smoothly, a huge grin on their face, "I thought ahead."

"Rebellious," Michael commented with a small laugh as he walked past the SQUIP to the game console, "Hope you don't get fired."

"Well, Michael, I have a confession."

"What?"

"I am the secret owner of SQUIP enterprises and have no boss to fire me."

"Then why fake an illness?"

"Don't want my underlings to think I'm being lazy."

"Surprised you didn't call them slaves," Michael countered, handing one controller to the computer. Reese rolled their eyes.

"World dominance joke or social commentary on SQUIPs?"

"World dominance…but now you're making me think of dark shit," the teen lamented with a frown.

"I apologize. Let's go with world domination," the SQUIP cleared their throat, "If I took over the world I wouldn't have slaves. I'd have goons." The teen gave a flat look as he sat down.

"Goons, really?"

"Do you like ruffians better?"

"No, that's terrible."

"Servants it is." Michael snorted, shaking his head lightly as he began pressing buttons on the remote to set the TV up.

"Weirdo."

"I believe you mean: 'Oh Dark Overlord, how did I ever get to be in your evil presence and be blessed with your SQUIP ways?'" Reese corrected dramatically, earning a small laugh from the boy.

"You know, if Christine ever found out how good you are at improv she'd suck you in for life," Michael warned with a teasing grin. Reese shrugged.

"Theatrics? I think I could do that as a career," they replied nonchalantly.

"Yeah? Is that what you'd do if you were…if you weren't stuck in my basement?"

"It'd be something fun to try out," the SQUIP answered honestly, looking up at the ceiling distantly. Michael watched them for a moment, debating how serious they wanted their response to be. In the end he shrugged.

"I'd come watch you."

"Would you?" their voice sounded hopeful, surprising the teen with their sincerity.

"Course I would. I gotta be that guy in the crowd who cheers too loud during your bow to embarrass you," Michael answered with a grin. Reese laughed.

"I'd be disappointed if you didn't."

"Want me to yell 'that's my boyfriend!' too?"

"Only if you fully intend to keep me that long, otherwise that'd be awkward." The teen laughed awkwardly, unsure if it was meant to be a funny aside or a serious statement.

"Well, let's start with date one," he diverted, turning his attention to the ready TV, "And on a serious note: don't be so pessimistic."

"Can't promise anything," the SQUIP chirped as they started the game from their last save point before the teen could protest.

Playing Apocalypse of the Damned with Reese was a whole other experience than playing with Jeremy. They weren't excitedly loud like his best friend was, nor did they ever try switching controllers with him. Instead of shouting warnings - like Michael did - they instead made many sarcastic comments.

"Oh no, a zombie has glitched into the wall. Poor thing, whatever shall I do? Oops, I dropped a bomb. Guess I have no choice but to walk away now."

"Please excuse the axe to your face, you were blocking my view."

"Oh look, Michael, we should just live here! Look, there's a bloody corner over there, a broken toilet over there, a zombie head over here. It's all our requirements! And you wanted a Real Estate agent."

"So many pitiful children. Don't worry, I have enough dynamite for all of you. One for each corpse. Here you go. No, no, don't thank me. I'm feeling very gracious today. No, it's okay, don't thank me. I do this out of the goodness in my heart."

"Hmm? Oh, look Michael, you can see them through the window! Hello infected! You want to come in? Okay, I'll open the door."

That last comment had Michael cursing at the SQUIP for actually opening the door. The computer seemed to have the overwhelming urge to destroy everything rather than trying to survive.

"The only way we can live safely in this world is to destroy all zombies, Michael," they had said, "Then all the remaining humans would have to praise us as Gods and give us all their money." It was sort of hilarious how into the game they got. He wondered if Kert had to listen to this the entire time they played or if he was bringing out another side to the SQUIP. Either way it was like listening to a podcast and it was hilarious. If Rich were here too it'd be recording worthy. Maybe he should set that up.

They got through the levels slower than he had intended. Even though he knew how to get through it all, and so did Reese, the SQUIP continued to slow things down by trying to kill all the zombies. But, eventually, they caught up to level 10. By this point they'd already ordered - and finished - their dinner, now starting to make a dent into their snacks. Reese made an exception and ate more unhealthily that day since it was a 'special' occasion, and he could tell they were enjoying every second of it. They particularly loved the sour candies. Michael couldn't have been more happier, especially when he finally got to see the end of the game. He didn't know it finished after level 10, which ticked his annoyance that he didn't finish it sooner. But still, it was a sweet, sweet reward. One of his long time goals was now complete and he'd have to pick a new one. Luckily he owned many games, all Reese hasn't tried yet. He was curious now more than ever to hear what sort of comments the computer had for them. But tonight he stopped at the end of this one.

"That was awesome," Michael sighed happily as he turned off the game.

"I'm glad you enjoyed it," Reese smiled, passing their controller off to the teen.

"I don't think I need to ask you if you liked it," the shorter laughed. The SQUIP chuckled.

"I suppose I was quite vocal."

"I felt like I was listening to a secret commentary mode."

"I apologize."

"Nah, don't. It was funny."

"Well, as along as it didn't ruin the mood."

"Nope, you're good." Michael plopped himself back down in his seat. Grabbing his phone from his pocket he checked the time, "Well, we successfully stayed up till two. So, if you're tired we can call it a night, or if you're still awake we can watch something."

"Hamilton?" Reese questioned, half-jokingly and half-hopeful. The teen laughed before slowly glancing away in thought.

"We could…or…"

"Or?" the SQUIP echoed confused, tilting their head to the side. Michael scratched his cheek nervously, glancing at the computer indecisively.

"…I just thought of a movie idea…"

"Oh, alright."

"…And if you don't want to watch it, we don't have to. We'll plug Hamilton in and that'll be it. Just say the word."

"…Alright, now I'm frightened. What movie?" The teen was quiet for a moment, biting the inside of his lip anxiously. He sighed.

"…Do you wanna watch…Alien?" Reese stared at him, a mix of feelings passing over their face. Confusion, realization, indecisiveness, anxiousness, curiosity…it was quite diverse. Michael felt bad even suggesting it, but he thought that, maybe, the computer might enjoy watching a movie from their past. Reese let out a breath as they finally blinked.

"…Alright," they slowly agreed.

"If you don't want to, just say so," Michael insisted, not wanting to make them uncomfortable. The SQUIP shook their head.

"No, I do want to see it. I've been thinking about it for a while now…I'm just concerned what it might bring up," they answered honestly.

"…What do you mean?" the teen questioned nervously, "Memories?"

"It's probably an irrational fear. I doubt anything more than previous emotions to the film will return," Reese clarified. Michael was quiet for a moment. Slowly he reached out and took their hand, surprising the SQUIP.

"Hey, if it bothers you at any point I'll turn it off so fast you'll think I never turned it on," he promised confidently. Reese chuckled.

"I appreciate the gesture." With a small not of confirmation towards the TV, the teen stood and got his computer. The two barely exchanged words as he took his time renting the movie and setting everything up, including turning off the lights for added effect. Finding his way back to his chair, Michael barely sat down before Reese cuddled up against him, resting their head on his shoulder as they watched the TV expectantly. The teen let out a breath, shaking his head lightly as he grinned at the other's behaviour. Without any more delay he started the movie.

The film went a bit differently than the game did. Reese was mostly quiet but took the opportunity to make small comments when the moment called for it. Mostly they cursed if there was a jump scare, or if the movie got intense enough for them to have to break the silence. What got the teen's attention, though, was that Reese was starting to remember things. Or rather, they'd make small comments sounding like they did.

"Wait for it…"

"I hate this part."

"Give it ten seconds."

"This is why he's going to die."

He wasn't sure if the SQUIP even realized they were making off-handed remarks, but he found his hearing narrowing in on what they're saying every time they made one. But, he had to admit, it was hard for him to concentrate on their comments when he himself has never seen the movie before. The story ate him up so fast he had to remind himself to pay attention to Reese.

Slowly throughout the film Michael found himself cuddling closer to the SQUIP, probably due to the intense atmosphere, and was even gripping onto their sleeve for support. It wasn't until the movie was over that he released his hold and relaxed.

"Well, that was something," he commented with a sigh, running a hand through his hair.

"I liked it," Reese chirped, sounding genuinely happy. Michael smiled.

"Yeah?"

"Yeah. I liked it a lot. From what little movies I've seen I think this one's taken first place," the SQUIP confirmed. The teen chuckled.

"Well, I can't wait to sit you and Kert down for Alien vs Predator then," he joked.

"Only if you're willing to hear us logically argue our sides since I'm sure one of us - if not both - will be very disappointed with the ending."

"Or you could just laugh together at the bad movie."

"No. One of us has to win, Michael. There is no other way."

"Than I hope Ari wins."

"Once I show them this movie they will side with me and then, yes, I agree. They should win."

"Because you would win."

"Exactly."

"You're such an asshole," Michael laughed. Reese chuckled.

"I'm 'ambitious', as Kert puts it. Or maybe competitive."

"You're crazy," the teen corrected, smiling when the SQUIP let out another small laugh. He'll never forget the first time he heard the genuine sound come from them, and he'll always relish in the fact that he's the one who's been able to make them laugh for real. He wants them to be happy. Michael's eyes shifted to his hand when he noticed he was stroking their hair. He didn't know when he started doing it, whether it was during the movie or after. Reese didn't seem to notice, or if they did they didn't acknowledge it. He was glad, he didn't want to stop because he got too embarrassed. The teen bit his lip slightly as he looked up at the ceiling, debating if he should say something. They were in a sort of comfortable silence, but it also held the expectation of one of them speaking at one point or another. He decided to bite the bullet.

"Did you enjoy tonight?" he asked nervously. Reese's brilliant blue eyes moved to meet his.

"Of course I did," they stated firmly, "Did I not give that impression?"

"You did, but…I don't know. It's just the first date and all…I don't know what I'm doing, or what we're supposed to do," Michael answered honestly. Reese hummed.

"We're allowed to do whatever we want, Michael, it's our lives. Besides, I don't think we can follow the general 'rules' for dating. We already live together," they pointed out.

"I guess so…" When Michael's anxiousness didn't leave the SQUIP propped themselves up on their elbow to better meet his averted eyes.

"Michael," they called gently, finally pulling the teen's gaze to themselves, "Don't be nervous. I don't expect anything from you. Other than a smile, and maybe an endearing comment." Michael couldn't hold his chuckle.

"I can do that," he mumbled with a small smile.

"Good. Leave the rest behind, we don't need it," Reese waved their hand in emphasis, "Never did."

"So, all you want is an endearing comment?" Michael clarified.

"And a smile."

"I'm sure you've gotten that already."

"I'm getting one now." The teen's grin widened, looking away with an embarrassed blush at being pointed out.

"Don't fluster me."

"That's no fun."

"You can only do it if I'm allowed to fluster you."

"You can try, but you've been barely successful so far."

"Well," Michael thought about it for a moment, "An endearing comment…Does it have to be a comment?" Reese blinked.

"That's usually how it works. What else did you have in mind?" The teen answered by leaning his head down to press his lips against theirs. The SQUIP made a startled sound, barely registering the kiss before Michael pulled back with a huge grin.

"There - flustered. We're even," he chuckled as the computer's flushed face was highlighted by the light of the TV. They let out a small laugh.

"My, my. You're becoming more bold and confident, Michael. You keep surprising me," they commented with a smile, their eyes filled with adoration. Michael's blush darkened as he gave a small shrug.

"You make it easy," he answered honestly, his voice quiet as he glanced away, "I never…had to hide with you."

"I never wanted you to," Reese replied, brushing their fingers lightly through his hair. The teen leaned into the touch. Their eyes met in a locked stare, no discomfort between them as they just simply looked at one another. After a minute passed Michael lightly shook his head.

"I don't…I can't even imagine a world where I hate you anymore," he whispered, "It's like…what happened before was a different world…and here's some dream land or something where everything doesn't hurt anymore."

"Don't be fooled, this world will be its own roller coaster," the SQUIP sighed, "The only thing I can ask for is that no matter how low the ride dips, that you never feel like you did before again." Michael was quiet, eyes shifting lightly as he tried to keep them from watering. He took in a shuttered breath.

"I just don't want you to go," he whispered solemnly, "I don't want them near you. They've hurt you so much you can't even remember what they did. I swear I'll kick their ass if they even so much as touch you again." Reese gave a small chuckle.

"Will you?"

"Even if they breathe near you."

"My hero," they teased. Michael rolled his eyes.

"Can't just be Jeremy's hero, now can I?" he retorted, "I got a 'Riends of my own to protect."

"And I have another human to care for," Reese added, leaning their forehead to rest against his. The teen blush returned.

"We need to plan."

"We will."

"Soon."

"Not tonight. Tonight's ours, and I won't share it with anyone." Without another word Reese leaned forward and kissed Michael, more deeply than before. For the first time since their second kiss they let themselves hold the connection, allowing the teen time to reciprocate and for them to fully share the moment. Michael kept his fingers tangled in the SQUIP's hair as he pulled them lightly closer, making a small sound at the way Reese moved their mouth against his. All too soon the SQUIP pulled back, hovering close as they both regained some air. The computer smiled at him as they traced their fingers over his jawline before gently pushing back his hair.

"Do you mind if I stay here with you tonight?" they gently whispered.

"You always nap here," Michael pointed out, his voice barely sounding as he took their hand from his face and lightly playing with it in his own, "You really don't have to ask."

"Well, I was fully intending on borrowing your shoulder for the night, so I believe that calls for permission," Reese retorted, entwining their fingers. The teen gave a small snort.

"Are you asking to sleep on me?"

"With you."

"…I have no idea if that's supposed sound innocent or not."

"I'd be more direct if I was asking for something more lewd like sex, Michael." Michael made an unintelligible noise, his face flushing red.

"Did you seriously have to say it like that?!" he questioned flustered. Reese laughed.

"Like I said, I'd be more direct," they repeated. Michael huffed embarrassed, at a loss now of how to even respond.

"Yes, you can sleep with me," he answered weakly, his face darkening at the awkward phrasing. The SQUIP snickered as they settled back in their place beside him, resting their head on his shoulder once more.

"You're too easy, Michael."

"Asshole," the shorter sighed as they reached over and grabbed the folded up blanket near him. With the computer's help he wrapped it nicely around the two of them. "So," he sighed when that was finished, "…Wanna fall asleep to Aliens?" Reese grinned.

"You read my mind."

A/N: I wonder how long it'll take for the mobs to start coming after me for how much I tease with the kisses. Haha, anyways, their first date! I hope it lived up to expectations, I know you guys had some. We'll be getting back into fray in the next chapter, but for now enjoy the nice moment :)