Chapter 19:

Ketchup Dinner

The quick jump from one place to another had always left me dizzy and unstable. Sans kept hold of my hand so I wouldn't tumble to the ground then guided me one step at a time inside. His hand was warm and fit nicely around mine, but the feeling was short lived. As soon as I could walk straight again, he removed his grip from mine and went up to the maitre d.

"Reservation for Sans and Frisk." He smiled at the man.

Checking his list the monster nodded and led the way to a back table, away from anyone else, and set up the place settings. He informed us food would be out soon, and then returned to his post. I had a feeling he wasn't too keen on his job here but I guess it really didn't matter. This was a chance for Sans and I to catch up, not to dwell over the life of our maƮtre d.

"So, ah, Frisk, where do you wanna start? You and the kiddo, or me and the good ol' Under?"

I shrugged, smiling gently at him. I'm glad he gave me an option, because I doubt starting off the night with a heavy heart would spark anything between us.

"You start. I'm interested to hear what you've been doing for six years, Sans."

The skeleton leaned back a bit in his seat and closed his eyes. "Well, where to begin...You had gotten my voicemail about Tori taking power of the throne, Papy getting' the guard thing. As for me, I've been keeping up with my stations and well deserved breaks." He opened one eye in a wink.

"That's all?" I giggled. "You didn't do anything new?"

"I never said that," He started up again and leaned his elbows casually on the table.

"Once a month I play my trombone at Grillz, and I do odd hobbies to the side...stuff I've been doin' a while but to my own accord, ya know?"

I thought about that for a moment. Odd hobbies? I wondered what they could be, but I wouldn't pry. Sans had his private life, just like anyone else. Why should I be the one to take that from him.

"Sounds nice. Easy going."

"Sure is. Couldn't enjoy it more." He gave me a gentle look that made me blush slightly. I don't think I've ever seen him look at me that way.

The food arrived then and put a pause in our conversation. Two plates of steaming hot stakes in the shape of Mettaton's face were laid in front of each of us with a side of glittery fries. Sans rolled his eyes at the food Mettaton had chosen for us and asked the waiter for some ketchup. To our dislike, he informed us none had been reserved so none would be brought to us.

"Who has fries without ketchup?" Sans sighed and picked at his steak.

"Someone who mustard had a bad childhood." I joked, hoping to get a reaction.

To my pleasure he laughed and nudged me with his foot.

"Good one kid."

Smiling at his cheerfulness, I began to try the meat on my plate. It was hearty and filling and I had to push it back while the first few bites sunk in.

"Alright, Frisk," Sans spoke. His face had turned serious when he grabbed my attention. "It's your turn. Tell me what went down on the surface."

My stomach knotted up some, and not from the steaks. Was either of us ready for the tale? I searched his eyes and knew he wasn't gonna judge me for anything that I did or what anyone else did to me. He just wanted to know what had happened, and if he could help in any way.

"Alright...but we're starting from the beginning."