Matrix sat by AndrAIa's bedside, listening to the gentle beeping of her heart monitor. His eyes were barely open. A week had passed and he split his time between being at the hospital, and dealing with their living situation. He wanted to be sure that everything was ready for when she woke up. Matrix yawned. Their finances were uncertain, but Pearson had given him an advance on his pay and didn't ask any questions. Without that he wasn't sure what he would have done. His father didn't approve of any of his decisions. He definitely didn't want to let him know that he had just given away eight million.

AndrAIa's face was bruised and swollen, and the rest of her body not much better off. Seeing her in that state was terrifying for him. She was hooked up to several tubes supplying her with energy and pain medication. A respirator was firmly placed against her nose and mouth, feeding her a steady stream of air. Thankfully, doctors had only hopeful things to say. She was low on energy, and mostly had superficial wounds. They expected her to wake up in a matter of days.

Matrix yawned again and looked over at the clock in the corner of the room. Visiting hours were over. So many emotions cycled through him; anger, sadness, guilt. If only he had come home sooner that night.

"I'm sorry, AndrAIa," He whispered to her, "I wasn't there to protect you. I'll spend the rest of my life making it up to you. I promise."

He laid a gentle kiss on her hand before standing. Matrix looked around the room. Flowers, cards, and other gifts filled the table next to him. Once word had gotten out family and acquaintances flocked there in numbers. Everyone except his father, of course. He hadn't spoken to Matrix since they had their fight. Maxine had stopped by, even Bob and Dot sent a courier with a gift basket. Matrix was furious, but mostly hurt by his father's absence in his time of need. They had never been close, but Welman was the one sprite he really needed to talk to.

Matrix sighed.

"I'll be back tomorrow," he promised. "Bright and early."

Every part of him wanted to stay, but he had to go. He was already on thin ice with a lot of the nurses for trying to stay past visiting hours. Matrix left, gently closing the door behind him. He started making his way to the exit as a vidwindow popped up. It was Dot.

"Hey sis, thanks for the basket." He said, continuing to make his way down the hall.

"Don't mention it. I wasn't sure what sort of sweets she liked, I just went with my best guess."

"She'll love it." He smiled weakly.

"How is she doing?"

"Still not awake, but nothing to worry about. Doctors say she'll be back online in no time."

"Wow, you're surprisingly calm."

"I guess I am."

He was beyond exhausted and running on empty, but he kept pushing himself. At any moment AndrAIa would wake up and he had to be there for her. She may have been safe, but he knew the work was just about to begin. She would need time to heal both physically and emotionally after what happened. He had to be strong for her.

"If there's anything you need, don't hesitate to ask."

"I will…" He looked at the bags under her eyes, even behind the lens of her glasses they were prominent. She looked tired in general, which wasn't unusual considering she was such a workaholic. Something just seemed off, though. "Is everything okay?"

Before the question had completely left his lips she burst into tears. Her body began to shake in uncontrollable sobs. Matrix watched, stunned. He stopped in his tracks.

"Enzo, I don't know what to do." Dot cried. He usually hated it when any sprite called him Enzo, but AndrAIa liked his name so he let it slide. He was beginning to soften up on a lot of things.

"Dot, what's going on?"

"It's Bob, I think he's cheating."

"What?" Matrix couldn't hold back a quick laugh, "That boy scout? There's no way; this has to be a misunderstanding."

"I know it sounds crazy, but I just have this feeling. He's never home and won't tell me where he's going. I know he's lying to me." She started crying harder. Dot took off her glasses, attempting to wipe the tears from her eyes.

"Dot, calm down."

"It's all because of my drinking, I know it."

Matrix felt a twinge of guilt. He had been so preoccupied with his own problems that he never asked if she was okay after the open house. As far as he knew Bob wasn't working and Dot was a nervous wreck. His own twin had a meltdown and he never asked her once how she was doing, even though he promised AndrAIa he would.

"It's not your fault, sis. I bet nothing is going on."

"I know there is. You have to believe me, you're the only one I can turn to. I'm so embarrassed. If word got out I don't know what I'd do. My reputation is already on the line."

She put her glasses back on, regaining a bit of her composure.

"Where is Bob now?" He asked.

"The Supercomputer, at least that's what he told me."

"Okay, I'll track him down and see what he's up to. Would that make you feel better?"

"Yeah, it would."

"Just sit tight, I'll figure out what's going on."

"Thank you Enzo- Matrix." She corrected herself.

"Don't mention it."

The vidwindow disappeared and he closed his eyes. He had been looking forward to a night of sleep. Regardless, Dot was family. He would rest after he calmed her down.

# #

Bob sat across from Dixon, grinning from ear to ear. She wore a bright blue blazer and matching lipstick. Her hair was pinned back, giving him a full view of her face. Under the dim lighting he couldn't help but admire her beauty. She smiled and took a sip of wine. Empty plates sat in front of them after an evening of good food.

"Thank you for dinner, Bobby. It was delicious."

"I'm glad you enjoyed it."

"I don't know what I'd do without you. You've been a really good friend to me these past few weeks. I think that's what I needed. Thank you."

"You don't have to thank me."

"I really do. I've had some trouble adjusting to things. I haven't even gone home yet."

"Really?"

"I've been living out of hotels."

"Why?"

"I guess I'm just scared to go through everything. My life's different now, to be honest I don't even know if I want to be a guardian anymore."

Bob was shocked.

"But you're a great guardian."

"I was a great guardian." She corrected, "But, I don't think I'm the same Dixon- at least, not yet."

He took her hand.

"All you need is time."

"I know. I guess my first project is clearing out our old place and getting organized."

"That's easy." He smiled, "Dot has this system, it sounds crazy at first but it really works. Everything you want to throw out, store it in a bag out of sight for a couple weeks. If you forget it's even there, toss it at the end of the month. If you have to take anything out to use, then just keep those items. You wouldn't believe all the stuff sprites hang on to that they don't even need."

"That is a good system." She pulled her hand away, taking a more serious tone, "Bobby, what are we?"

"What do you mean?"

He didn't realize it, but somehow Bob always found a way to bring up his wife. No matter what the subject, he seemed to work Dot into every conversation. It was something Dixon noticed right away. Since waking up from her coma, she seemed to know everything about Dot. She knew that she was the command..com of Mainframe, and that she was a hard worker, and she hated the taste of diet energy shakes. Dixon even knew that she liked black nail polish. She tried not to be jealous, but couldn't help it. Bob always talked about Dot when he was with her. She was beginning to wonder if Dot even knew that she existed. Did Bob talk about her the same way he talked about his wife? Dixon already knew the answer, she didn't even have to ask.

"Five cycles ago I would have said that you were my fiancé. What are you now?" She clarified.

Bob cleared his throat and sat up straight. Suddenly he felt an immense amount of pressure. Dixon looked back with a neutral expression, waiting.

"I guess things have changed. I'm married now, and you…" He trailed off. Bob was beginning to figure out where the conversation was heading.

"I'm what? What am I to you?"

"Well… Your…"

They sat staring at each other. Wait staff walked by round tables, clad in white clothes. Sprites conversed in respectfully hushed voices, dressed for the occasion. Bob looked around. He was just then realizing that they were on a date. There was no other way to describe what was going on. He also knew that every second he spent with her and didn't tell Dot was an act of betrayal.

"When I first woke up you said you weren't happy, but I don't think that's the case." She said, "You and Dot have just hit a rough patch."

"We fight all the time."

"So did we."

She got him there. Bob had been so excited to have Dixon back, that he had only thought about the good times. They bickered and fought, just like any other couple. Most of the time Dixon was right, and she loved to rub it in. That drove Bob crazy.

"I guess you're right."

"I'm going to ask you something and I don't want you to think, just answer."

"All right."

"Me or Dot?"

"What?"

"You can't have both, Bobby. Make your choice."

"... Dot." He said. Since Dixon came back into his life he'd been struggling internally about what he should do. Deep down he always knew that Dot was the sprite for him, he just didn't want to let Dixon go.

"You're so different Bobby; more mature. But some things never change. You were always the worst at making tough decisions."

"You were always there to make them for me." He smiled.

"I know, but you don't need me anymore. Now you have Dot."

"... But what about us?"

"Our time has passed Bobby, there is no more us."

Dixon knew from the start where his heart was. She selfishly just needed a bit more time with him. Despite it hurting, she got the closure she needed, and now they both had to move on.

"I understand."

"Thank you for everything, I mean it."

"I know. I'd do it all again."

"I know."

"... I think it's best that we don't see each other anymore." Bob said sadly.

"I agree."

"But this isn't goodbye forever, of course."

"Just see you later?"

"Exactly." Bob smiled, "I should go."

"Dinner really was lovely."

Bob took out his wallet to settle the bill. Once it was paid he exchanged one final look with Dixon, got up and left.

Dixon watched as he exited the restaurant. Through the window she saw him turn the corner. Once he was gone she allowed her tears to fall. She loved Bob with all of her heart, but that didn't change their situation. He wasn't hers anymore, and she fully accepted that, but that didn't make it hurt any less.

# #

Bob turned the corner around the building, bumping into someone.

"Sorry-" he started, until he realized who it was. Matrix looked down at him with a scowl. Bob instantly started sweating.

"M- Matrix." He stuttered, "What are you doing here?"

"Following you."

"This isn't what it looks like."

"It looks like you just got dumped," He paused, "wanna grab a beer?"

"... Yeah, I do."

Bob was in a state of shock as they walked to find a bar. As they turned down alleyways and side roads he wondered if Matrix was luring him to his demise. His imagination ran rampant during that walk, thinking up only worst case scenarios. Instead of getting a beating, Bob and Matrix ventured into a small pub a few blocks away. They entered and sat at the bar, ordering a beer each.

It wasn't difficult for Matrix to locate Bob at all. Despite being opposites personality wise, they got along quite well. Bob was always good at conversation and knew when Matrix needed peace and quiet. Silence between them was never awkward. In Matrix's opinion, Bob was even kind of funny. He was one of few sprites that could actually make him laugh. As a result, Matrix knew his brother-in law pretty well. He just thought of places Bob was likely to take someone on a date. After scoping out a few movie theatres he checked out some restaurants. He found him on his third try and waited outside, not wanting to cause a scene.

Matrix chugged his beer, preparing himself for the conversation they needed to have. On the way there Bob had explained what had been going on; Dot and her drinking, Dixon, and his conflicting emotions. He confessed everything, even though there wasn't much to confess. Given the circumstances Matrix didn't think he did anything wrong, a kiss and hand holding was pretty innocent. But, it wasn't up to him to decide. He knew Dot would think differently about the situation.

"So that's what's going on?" Matrix asked.

"It is…"

"I know Dot can be… Difficult sometimes, but it's not her fault."

"I know."

"No, I don't think you do."

Bob gave him a puzzled look.

"We all missed out on having a real childhood because of the war." Matrix explained, "but our mom left long before then. My dad was… grieving, and neglected a lot of things. Dot stepped up. She practically raised me and got our dad out of his slump. All she knows is schedules, and programs and solutions. She's burnt out from cycles of adding more and more onto her plate, without taking anything off. You have to relax somehow."

"... like drinking…" Bob sighed, feeling like an idiot for not realizing sooner, "I can't believe I didn't know that."

"Doesn't surprise me. If I wasn't there myself I wouldn't know either. Dot doesn't talk about feelings, especially when it has to do with her."

Bob felt a little silly for not talking to Matrix sooner. He offered a completely different perspective.

"You know," Bob sighed, "I'm a little surprised I'm still processing right now. Don't you want to delete me?"

If Matrix did want to beat him up, he wouldn't blame him. Bob wouldn't even fight back because he knew he deserved it.

"Bob, you're my friend." Matrix said. In all honesty he had thought about roughing Bob up a bit, but decided to hear his side of the story first. He was glad that he did.

Bob smiled, thankful for his generosity.

"So I guess now you're gonna tell me to come clean to Dot."

"Absolutely not."

"Really?" Bob took a big gulp of beer as Matrix called for another. He was drinking him under the table and barely looked tipsy.

"I know my sister. She's just a nano away from a full blown meltdown."

"The open house wasn't a meltdown?"

Matrix laughed.

"You haven't seen anything yet. Dot can never find out about any of this."

"What?"

"Dot is a nervous wreck right now, but she's also a genius. That is a dangerous combination; anything she comes up with would be way worse than what I could do to you."

"I don't understand."

"Imagine the scandal if you two got divorced," Matrix explained, "She doesn't want all that. She's Dot Matrix, the sprite who sets the high standards for all of Mainframe. Her image would be completely destroyed, especially after what happened at the open house. Everyone would automatically assume that she was the bad guy in the relationship."

"I get all of that, but why can't I just tell her?"

"Bob," He sighed. Clearly he wasn't getting it so Matrix just spelled it out for him. "A divorcee is problematic in the public eye, a widow is a more sympathetic character. If there's a way to make you disappear without drawing any suspicion, Dot will find it. She will do it, and she'll get away with it. Because the only alternative is complete ruin. Understand?"

"... You don't think she'd actually do that?"

Matrix shrugged.

"So what do I do?" Bob asked.

"You keep this to yourself and take it to deletion. No one finds out about this. Does anyone else know?"

"No."

"Good. It stays between us. And you can not see Dixon again."

"I understand, but it doesn't feel right lying to Dot." Bob admitted.

"It shouldn't have felt right cheating on her in the first place."

Bob felt the full impact of Matrix's words. He was right.

"Okay…"

"Dot needs her husband right now. Are you up for the task?"

"Of course I am, I love her."

"And don't you ever forget that. Next time I won't be so generous." Matrix warned.

"Trust me, there won't be a next time."

They raised their glasses and drank.

# #

Hack and Slash bumped into each other, struggling to open the door for their boss. Megabyte sighed, taking the time to examine his surroundings as he waited. Daemon's place was impressive, but not to his taste.

"Get out of the way, imbeciles." He scoffed, pushing past them.

They moved from one hallway to another. He was already in a foul mood since Daemon insisted on meeting in person. A lot was going on at Silicon Tor and he found the whole trip to be a waste of valuable time.

After opening a set of doors they were met by a sprite, crossing her arms in disapproval.

"Mouse," Megabyte forced a smile, "How wonderful to see you again."

"Save the pleasantries, you're late."

"My sister's directions weren't very clear. My apologies." There was a lack of sincerity in his voice.

Mouse narrowed her eyes. She knew Daemon had reservations about working with him. Everyone but Megabyte seemed to be aware of the fact that he was the weak link.

"Well, you're here now, which is all that matters." She brushed it off, "Follow me."

Megabyte followed the purple sprite closely, and Hack and Slash fell behind. In moments they were led into a large room. A chandelier hung over a long rectangular table. Daemon sat at the far end and Hexadecimal at the other.

"Oh brother, how nice of you to join us." Hex said with a smile, but Megabyte knew she wasn't pleased. He wasn't making the best impression with his tardiness.

"Hello, Megabyte." Daemon said in a voice that was impossible to read.

Megabyte was taken aback by her lackluster greeting. He simply straightened his tie and took a seat close to his sister. Hack and Slash stood behind him.

Megabyte watched as Mouse walked over to Daemon, casually taking a seat beside her.

"So nice to finally meet you, Daemon." He said respectfully. "I've heard nothing but good things."

"I wish I could say the same," Daemon retorted, "your lack of punctuality concerns me."

He squirmed. Megabyte wasn't the sort of virus who was met with hostility often. In Mainframe everyone looked up to him. Daemon didn't seem to fear or respect him, which made him uneasy.

"Enough chit chat, let's talk business." Hex hastily changed the conversation in hopes that her brother would move on.

He didn't.

"I see you allow the help to run loose," He looked over at Mouse who sat back in her chair with her feet on the table, "How charitable."

Mouse opened her mouth, fully prepared to defend herself, but Daemon raised a hand silencing her.

"Mouse is not the help. Amongst us viruses she is an equal. If you chose to disrespect her, then you are also choosing to forfeit your part in this. Understand?"

Hex bore a mask of surprise. No one talked to Megabyte that way. She looked over at him. He simply straightened up in his seat and cleared his throat.

"You misunderstand; my sense of humour isn't for everyone. Forgive me if I have offended you." he backpedaled.

"Mouse, do you accept his apology?" Daemon asked, eyes locked on him the whole time.

"No harm done." Mouse sighed. She could already tell that this partnership was going to be nothing but a headache. Megabyte was just waiting for an opportunity to double-cross them, and Hex was only in it for fun. Mouse also knew that Hex had everything to do with the drama from last week. It took about five minutes of light torture before Ray came clean about everything. She had already passed the information along to Daemon, who still wanted to proceed with their plans. Mouse didn't understand it, but she wasn't the one in charge.

"I am a tad curious why this meeting was called." Megabyte moved on quickly.

"I wanted to hear how things are progressing on your end." Daemon said.

"The prototype is complete. Do you have the test subject?"

"Yes, and it is operational?"

"A power source is required, but things are progressing nicely."

"And this power source?"

"A temporary solution, just to ensure it works correctly. No use in putting my dear sister at risk if there are bugs to work out. Once testing is complete Hexadecimal will power the machine."

"Is that so?" She looked over at Hex.

"No need to fret," Hexadecimal smiled, "I am more than capable of the task."

Mouse looked over at Daemon, who gave no sign as to what she was thinking. Mouse knew what she was concerned about though, she was starting to have the same worry. She chose to stay silent.

"Very well." Daemon said, "Continue as you see fit. I wish to be notified once the machine is functional."

"Of course." Megabyte said before standing.

He couldn't wait to leave. Hack and Slash followed him out. Hex watched him, hoping for at least a goodbye, but he didn't even acknowledge she was there. Once the door shut behind him Hex sighed.

"Megabyte is an odd one." She explained.

"Our terms still stand, Hexadecimal. Are you sure you can-"

"Yes, of course."

Daemon stood.

Mouse watched as Daemon floated over to Hex.

"I feel I can trust you." Daemon said, "do you trust me?"

"Of course. That's why I'm here."

"Do you trust Megabyte?"

"No- but we need him for now."

"Why take on the risk?"

Hex stood.

"He's my brother." Was the answer she managed, though in actuality she just wanted his respect. She knew it was a good idea, he had admitted that much. He was yet to say any encouraging words to her, though. She just wanted to hear him say once that she had a brilliant idea and he was proud of her. But Hex knew she couldn't tell Daemon that. She didn't want to look weak.

"Very well. Keep an eye on him."

"Of course." Hex laughed, "Once I'm certain the machine does what it's supposed to I'm taking a copy of the blueprints for myself."

Hexadecimal vanished, leaving Daemon and Mouse to discuss what they just heard.

"This plan's gonna fall apart. You must know that." Mouse stood and walked over to her.

"As long as the machine works we have hope. And you will be the first to reap the rewards."

Mouse froze.

"Really?"

"Yes, that was always my intention; a reward for cycles of service."

"I don't need a reward. I'm here because I want to be."

Daemon smiled, her feet just then settling on the ground.

"Mouse, you have helped me with many things. I wish I could learn from the lessons you have to teach. I still do not understand family or love. Why make things more difficult for the sake of family? Why destroy your life over love? It does not make sense to me."

"It doesn't make sense to any sprite, but they do it anyway. You're lucky you don't have to worry about things like that. Less painful that way."

"Maybe one day."

"Yeah, maybe." Mouse spoke with a sad smile.

# #

Bob was beyond inebriated. He had felt so much pressure to keep up with Matrix, but hadn't even come close. He struggled to get the front door open, tripping over the mat inside. To his surprise all the lights were on. It was late and he assumed Dot would be in bed already, but she sat at the kitchen table with a glass of wine in front of her.

He stood up straight, as if that could hide how drunk he was. Dot was unphased by his entrance as she took another sip.

"Dot, you're still up?" He said.

"I am… I thought you were working?"

Bob stumbled over, taking a seat in the chair next to her.

"Guess who I ran into in the Supercomputer?" He leaned in close. She could smell the beer on his breath.

"Who?"

"Matrix!"

Dot couldn't help but laugh. It had been a long time since she had seen Bob that drunk. It was kind of cute.

"You don't say?"

"Yeah, I do say. You're drinking?"

"It's my first glass, I swear… I guess I got a little bored. Phong sent me home early today."

"Why?"

"He thinks I'm still working too hard."

"What a jerk, you can work as hard as you want!" He declared. "You're Dot Matrix, what are you supposed to do; not work hard? It's in your code."

"Exactly." She suppressed another laugh.

"Dot, honey, I'm sorry."

"Why are you sorry?"

"I'm a bad husband."

"That's not true."

"Yes it is. I haven't been at work all this time."

Dot paused, placing her glass down.

"What have you been doing, then?"

"A friend needed my help, and instead of taking care of you I went to be with them because it was easier… I don't like fighting with you or seeing you upset. Guardians don't run from problems, but that's what I did." Bob slurred through his apology.

He folded his arms on the table, burying his head between them. Dot watched him for a moment before sighing. Matrix was right, she didn't have anything to worry about.

"You're a fine guardian." She reassured him, "and a great husband."

He looked up.

"Really?"

"Really." She smiled.

"I won't do it again, promise."

"All right, come on. Let's go to bed. You've clearly had a long night."

He stood, placing one of his arms over her shoulder. Slowly she guided him over to the bedroom.

"I did, Matrix and I had a drinking contest."

"Did you?"

Once in the bedroom Bob laid down and she pulled the covers around him.

"Matrix won."

"Didn't see that one coming." She said sarcastically. Matrix didn't drink often, but when he did he could not be matched.

"Me neither…" Within seconds of his head hitting the pillow, Bob was fast asleep.

Dot looked at him and smiled. For the first time in a while she felt like everything was going to be alright.

End Log