A/N: And thus, this marks my 300th fic on AO3. Feels like not too long ago I posted 'Hot and Heavy' for my 200th. Here's to hoping I can reach 400 fics before the year is out, aha~
This fic'll be divided into two chapters; with the first focused on romance, and the second on smut. Mostly so there can be more smut of 45 without ruining the romantic edge of the first chapter.
Enjoy~
Home
Chapter 1
'The stars are bright out tonight...'
The Commander couldn't help but notice that as he gazed at the inky-black sky overhead, idly counting the numerous silver specks flickering amidst the darkness. It was virtually impossible to count them all, but there was no harm in trying.
Cold wind tickled his cheeks, his hands saved from the bitter night air by being in the pockets of his burgundy coat. The distant thrumming of a helicopter's rotor echoed over the pine forest before him, the darkness forcing him to squint to make out its black form amidst the night. Behind him laid the base itself, the lights on but failing to reach the helipad before him, the concrete platform slightly risen above ground level.
Audible shivering made him glance aside, cracking a smile at the sight of Kalina, clutching her clipboard to her chest, undoubtedly regretting her choice of loose clothing at this moment. G36 stood behind her, stone-faced despite the chilly night air, though the way she held her hands tightly together in front of her betrayed that she wasn't immune to it herself.
''C-Can't we wait inside, C-Commander?'' Kalina's teeth chattered as she spoke, hopping from foot to foot. ''It's too damn cold out! I s-should get hazard pay for this!''
''Calm down.'' He drawled with amusement, chuckling. ''You said you wanted some fresh air.''
''I meant through a window, not s-standing out in the open!''
The Commander's chuckle tapered off, a smile remaining on his face. ''Still, it would be rude not to welcome back our guests, wouldn't it? A little night air is a mere price for that.''
His remark succeeded in quietening Kalina's complaints, the busty woman huffing to herself petulantly. He shook his head in amusement, retaining his smile as he glanced up at the incoming helicopter, the winds picking up as it began to descend before them. Kalina grunted, both she and G36 holding down their skirts as the helicopter kicked up a mighty gust, but he merely endured the incoming winds with folded arms.
Soon the helicopter touched down, its sleek form reminiscent of a Blackhawk, albeit more modernised and suited to Griffin's purpose. The rotors had barely started to slow down before the side-door groaned open, revealing the dimly-lit interior of the chopper packed with bodies. And amidst the roughly-packed stack of dummies, was the ever-infamous 404 Squad.
''Welcome back.'' The Commander smiled warmly at the four T-Dolls.
''Guten Abend, Commander~'' UMP45 greeted in her usual lilted tone, a slight half-smile ever-present on her face as she hopped out of the helicopter.
''Did the mission go well?'' He asked lightly, glancing over at HK416 as the grumbling T-Doll dragged a sleeping, mumbling G11 out of the helicopter – unceremoniously dumping the short girl onto the ground, unheeding of her grunt. ''Don't be mean to her, 416.''
HK416 huffed, but made the effort to grab G11 by the back of her coat and yank her up. UMP45 looked amused at the byplay and responded to his original question. ''It went well, relatively. We did end up running into Ouroboros again, but she must've been tired because she didn't really put too much effort into hunting us down.''
''Or it could be because you shot her knees.'' HK416 pointed out dryly, thumbing her chest. ''And used me as a distraction I might add!''
''Details~'' UMP45 waved off the ticked-off AR.
''We got the intel you wanted too!'' UMP9 chirped up, approaching him with a skip in her step and pulling a flat square-shaped box out of her coat pocket.
The Commander smiled, accepting the box with one hand and petting UMP9 with the other hand, eliciting a pleased giggle from the cheery girl. ''Good work; all of you. Disconnect from your dummies and head back for some rest. Do you want some late dinner?''
''Sounds good.'' UMP45 agreed, disconnecting from her dummies with only a slight dilation of her pupils to show; the other three members of her team all doing the same.
He glanced back at Kalina and G36, gesturing to the helicopter. The two women obliged and stepped past the loosely-assembled 404 Squad and began to collect the limp dummies, many of which had bullet holes in them – HK416 in particular missing three altogether. Considering her earlier comment, nobody had to guess where they went. Ouroboros' explosive weapons weren't exactly gentle.
As he guided the four girls back towards the base proper the Commander couldn't help but listen in on their byplay and conversations, smiling as HK416 chewed UMP45 out for 'making her run around like a headless chicken with G11 on her back'. His relationship with the 404 Squad was certainly a unique one, in that he had the rare honour of actually having their trust, at least to some degree. He fought hard to keep that trust, not solely because they were an effective T-Doll team, but because he saw them as deserving of his protection after all they did, even more than other T-Dolls did.
Hell, if it was possible, he'd like to have them never fight again and live out a peaceful life, but life wasn't so favouring of such an outcome.
''Commander~'' G11's voice drew his eye, smiling down at the ever-sleepy girl, her heavy footfalls nearly making her trip. ''Carry me~''
HK416 was halfway through berating the short girl when he slowed his walk, chuckling slightly as he got down onto one knee. G11 didn't miss the chance presented to her and hopped onto his back, lithe arms snaking around his collarbone and chin resting atop his head, a content, sleepy hum slurring from her lips, already beginning to doze off. He smiled ruefully and stood back up, chancing a glance over at HK416.
A very pouty HK416.
''I can give you a piggyback next time.'' The Commander said with a warm smile.
HK416 blushed, immediately looking away. ''W-Who the hell said I wanted one?!''
''You don't look too opposed to it.'' UMP45 smiled back at the AR.
''Commander, can I have one too~?!'' UMP9 cheerily asked, stars nearly coming to her eyes.
''Tomorrow night.'' He didn't miss a beat. ''I'll carry you around the base and we can count the stars. Sound good?''
''Mm!''
Out of the corner of his eye he spotted UMP45's eyes glinting, an indecipherable emotion crossing her face, but it was gone before he could comment on it.
…
Within under half an hour he had a small dinner prepared by the cooks, and in short order took it personally to 404's dormitory room – located at the farthest end of the base at their own request, mostly for privacy.
The Commander hummed lightly to himself, footfalls slowing down until he was standing before the nondescript metal door. The walls were soundproofed so he heard nothing, but that didn't stop him from rapping his knuckles across the hard metal, waiting. Only a few moments later the door hissed open, revealing UMP45 on the other side – surprising swift to colour her expression.
''Oh?'' The T-Doll looked him over. ''I wasn't expecting you to deliver the food personally, Commander.''
''Think of it as a little thank you for your hard work.'' He responded with a light smile.
UMP45 made a sort of chuckle under her breath and beckoned him inside, taking the topmost of the cardboard boxes off him – mindful not to spill the contents. 404's dormitory was one of the plainer ones, featuring standard grey walls and a matching floor, no carpets to be found. A brown couch was deposited near the middle of the room before a standard flat-screen TV, four single beds located at the other end of the room, each one a little more customised.
As in, UMP9's had a stuffed cat plushy by the pillow and G11's had a full-length body pillow, of a pillow.
Dimly he realised that G11 might like sleeping a bit too much.
''Mn...?'' The T-Doll in question sat up from the couch, groggy. ''Uhn... is the food here yet...?''
''Mm.'' The Commander hummed in agreement, handing one box over to HK416 – the tsundere accepting it with a muttered thanks.
G11 blinked dazedly. ''Feed me...''
He blinked in surprise for a second, and before HK416 could undoubtedly snipe in a chiding comment about acting like a child, he complied with a light hum – taking a seat on the couch and opening up G11's box, idly handing the remaining box over to a chipper UMP9. Inside was a bowel of stew and potatoes, a can of soda and bottled water, along with a small bowel of rice pudding.
He caught sight of G11 nearly drooling at the latter bowl, but she wasn't too bothered when he spooned up some stew. A cute 'ahh~' escaped the T-Doll as she opened her mouth, chomping down on the metal spoon he laid in her mouth, the stew already cool enough to eat right off the bat. And thus he spent the next few minutes feeding the hungry AR; mashing in the potatoes with the stew and even having to wipe her chin with a napkin, unheeding of UMP45's teasing comments.
''Oh~!'' UMP9 reached into her own box, grinning as she pulled out a cinnamon roll. ''Springfield's cinnamon rolls!''
''Mm. She saved some just for you.'' The Commander smiled over at her. ''Make sure to eat your main meal first though.''
UMP9 blew a raspberry at him childishly and took a big bite of it instead, expression melting into one of pure bliss as she slowly munched it, cheeks bulging with each slow bite. He rolled his eyes at the sight and was about to look away and continue feeding G11; had UMP9 not swallowed, and made a quiet comment.
''I'll miss Springfield's food.'' The SMG said, voice taking on a slightly sombre edge.
He raised a brow, looking over at the others. HK416 avoided his gaze and pretended to be busy eating, but UMP45 didn't bother trying to hide it – speaking for the group. ''We'll have to move again soon to keep our cover, Commander. We never intended to be permanent residents here, remember.''
The Commander frowned, looking down at G11. The petite doll kept eating the spoonfuls he gave her, but it was more sluggish than before; her focus clearly on the conversation. ''Do you really have to go?''
''Mm.'' HK416's hum was crisp and formal. ''It's necessary. We've got plenty of idiots who'd like to see us dead. No point in dragging Griffin down with us when that happens.''
''You'd be safer with us.'' He retorted gently, looking between HK416 and UMP45. ''Griffin is strong; it can be your home.''
''...home...?'' UMP9's voice was a quiet whimper, entering the conversation.
The Commander nodded firmly. ''Yeah. I know you girls like to keep things secret, but that doesn't mean you have to erase your presence completely and hop about. We can make this room yours permanently; we can paint the walls, get you some more furniture, give it some life – and you can still go about your regular missions. Just instead of sleeping in some abandoned building, you can come back here. You can come back to a home.''
''We have a lot of enemies.'' UMP45 warned him. ''We stay low on the radar for a reason.''
He smiled resolutely back at her. ''Even if KCCO themselves show up at our doorstep, I'll be right there with you as we haul ass out of here.''
Sniffling echoed from his left. ''C... C-Commander~!''
With a wail of tearful thanks UMP9 tackled him from the side, half-leaning over the couch and with her mouth still partially stuffed with cinnamon roll. HK416 didn't say any more than a quiet thanks, glancing aside while G11 forgot about her dinner, gazing up at it him with a small smile, ever-present tiredness replaced with something akin to joy.
And UMP45, ever the calm one, merely gave him a rueful huff and a slight smile of her own. ''Danke, Commander.''
The Commander merely grinned in reply – before UMP9 finally made it over the couch and promptly smothered him in a hug.
X-x-X
Days passed, and soon the Commander found himself back in 404's dorm room, painting.
''I mean, it's just on my side of the room 416, it'll be fine!''
''Like hell it will! Since when does pink and grey mix you knucklehead?!''
Or trying to, anyway. The girls still hadn't fully decided on the colours. They had agreed to do the walls black with a streak of yellow through the middle, alongside their emblem on each individual wall, but UMP9 wanted to do the section around her bed pink, and G11 wanted hers to be blue; which, of course, wouldn't mix well with the black-yellow theme they were going with.
The Commander couldn't help but sit back and watch the byplay between the girls however; smiling slightly as HK416 chewed UMP9 out... whilst G11 looked two steps shy of falling over out of tiredness, right into a bucket of pink paint. Mindful of an imminent paint volcano he approached the wobbling girl and gently grasped her shoulders, guiding her a few steps away. She mumbled something along the lines of thanks and then promptly sat down, eyes shutting as she dozed off.
He chuckled lightly at that and did her the favour of picking her up, carrying her over to her bed – which had since been moved to the middle of the room whilst they did the walls – and laying her down, loosely draping a blanket over her. HK416 shot him a glance and a raised eyebrow, but seemed more exasperated than anything else, as if his actions meant she couldn't in good conscience now wake G11 back up.
Pretending not to notice her exasperated expression, the Commander idly looked around. ''Where'd 45 go?''
''Outside. Fresh air, she said.'' HK416 responded, huffing. ''If you go looking for her, tell her to get back in here and help us. I ain't wrangling her sister for much longer without smacking her up the head!''
''Hn... then how about we just do the bed-frame pink?''
''No!''
''What if we do all the bed-frames pink, then they'll match!''
''Y-You-! I- we- gah!''
The Commander exited the dorm room with a suppressed chuckle, mindfully shutting the door behind himself. Without HK416's yelling and UMP9 whining the hallway was peacefully quiet, the sharp tap of his boots the only sound as he wandered down the polished grey hallway, heading for the exit doors near the end of the hall. While many bases had large underground dormitories, his base had the luxury of being in one of the more peaceful and easily-defensible sectors, allowing an above-ground structure.
With the main benefit of that being, of course, the ability to have windows – and easy access to the outside world. A fact he was reminded of as he stepped out into the cool night air, a light wind brushing against his face and ruffling his hair. Warm gold light spilled out into the dirt-grass area in front of him, the night sky alight with countless silver stars that twinkled of their own accord.
And standing leaning up against the wall was UMP45, gaze set on the stars.
''Mm.'' Was UMP45's casual acknowledgement, gaze set on the sky.
''9 and 416 are starting to get into an argument.'' The Commander noted lightly. ''Should we stop them?''
A slight smile curled at UMP45's lips. ''Let them. 416 will just give up in the end and take the huff.''
He chuckled at that, approaching her side. She shuffled over a bit to give him some room, both of them simply leaning up against the wall in amicable silence. Unlike with some of his other subordinates, he didn't feel obligated to start a conversation or get to know UMP45 more; she just was. She was mysterious, vague, always smiling but only half honest; she was elusive even when she was stood right next to him. And something about that just gravitated him towards her.
Because as strange as it was to say, he saw UMP45 as more human than some humans he'd met.
''Any reason you're out here?'' He finally disturbed the silence, glancing down at the shorter girl.
UMP45 hummed. ''Just watching the moon. I like it when it's a full moon like this. Plenty of visibility, cool temperature keeps the servos running...''
''And not because it looks nice?''
''That too.'' The T-Doll hummed.
He smiled, looking back up at the moon. It hung heavily overhead, taking up a good portion of the sky when in its full-moon phase. Doubly so since there wasn't many clouds about, leaving both the moon and the stars exposed.
''I think it looks nice too.'' He remarked idly, memories of his childhood flashing in his mind. ''When I was younger, I used to visit this beach near the seaside. Bright and gold during the day, but when the moon rose it became all silver; the moon's reflection visible on the water. It was serene.''
UMP45 hummed, gaze on him. ''I've always wanted to visit the beach. What's it like?''
The rare note of curiosity colouring her lilted voice encouraged him to speak his mind, gaze returning to the moon. ''The sand gets everywhere. No matter how much you wear or where you sit, you'll find sand from anywhere from your hair to your toes; it's inevitable. You can really smell the sea-salt too; it's colder as well, especially during the winter months. But, the lapping of the waves is calming in a way, just listening to them hit the rocks. I can't really explain it any better than that.''
He looked back down at her. ''If you've never seen one, then how about we go see one?''
UMP45 blinked. ''Really?''
The Commander grinned lightly. ''Sure. I've got some days saved up, and we're far away enough from the front-lines that Sangvis won't get here without us knowing, so the base'll be fine. You, me, and the rest of 404 can just go spend some time together. How about it?''
In response she stared at him with something approaching genuine surprise, as if she honestly didn't expect he'd offer such a thing. Seeing that he smirked slightly and bumped his shoulder against her slim one – the little movement helping snap UMP45 out of her surprise, a faint pink hue colouring her cheeks.
''...heh.'' A familiar smile curled at her lips, but for once it looked less sarcastic, and more real – more genuine. ''I guess if you offer something like that, I can't really refuse, can I?''
Her arm looped around his. ''Now let's get back inside before 416 makes something explode. Probably 9 at this rate.''
''Aren't you being a little over-dramatic?''
''Who do you think has the grenade launcher on our team?''
''...point.''
X-x-X
A little over a week passed – and soon, the Commander found himself free from the normality of his daily routine, and instead many miles away by the seaside.
Thanks to Helianthus pulling some strings they were able to get access to one of the quieter beaches, currently closed to the public while the military did some exercises nearby. Since they would be by the beach and the military was up in the mountains they would be fine, so long as they could deal with the occasional sound of distant gunfire.
The Commander inhaled a deep breath, relishing the nippy but refreshing air of the ocean. The beach wasn't the one he had visited as a child but it was just as gold as it, the sandy stretch carrying on for a little over a mile in both directions before it tapered off. Deep blue waves lapped at the shoreline repetitively, the gentle roar a constant in his ears. It had been so long since he'd heard it, giving him a sense almost like nostalgia.
''Commander~!''
A smile worked its way across his face and he glanced aside, locking eyes with UMP9. The brunette grinned brightly at him, lithe frame clad in a simple black bikini; showing off much more skin than her usual outfit did. In the background he could see HK416 staring flatly down at G11, the latter clad in a frilled teal bikini whilst HK416 herself wore a blue bikini piece, an unbuttoned white shirt hung over her shoulders.
G11 was, of course, sleeping. Under a sandcastle that UMP9 had built atop her.
He had to give G11 credit though; the girl didn't shift once despite being buried under a mound of sand.
Waving at UMP9 to go ahead the bikini-clad girl gleefully did, giggling as she ran into the ocean – pink floaties around her biceps, of course. While the members of 404 Squad could swim just fine, it wouldn't do any harm for them to keep the floaties on just to be safe.
'Speaking of which...' His gaze shifted over to his right slightly, down at the girl laying upon a dark green towel.
UMP45's lithe frame was emphasised by the dark green swimsuit she wore, her legs slim and ending in a pair of black sandals; the footwear dangling off her toes as she bounced one foot atop the other. Twin streaks of yellow ran up the sides of the swimsuit, crossing over her small breasts to form an X before they looped over her shoulders. Black sunglasses hid her eyes for but a moment; the shades soon dropping to her nose as she tilted them down, gazing back up at him.
A smirk curled at her lips. ''See something you like, Commander?''
The Commander flushed, looking aside. UMP45 chuckled at that and shifted up onto her elbows, idly reaching over and procuring her can of soda, wasting no time in chugging it. Despite her teasing words there was a genuine lightness to her voice, one that hadn't faded since they had arrived at the beach. He still recalled the awed look in her eyes when she first laid eyes on the sea, before she quickly masked it and deflected HK416's attempt at mocking her.
''You not going to join them?'' He queried lightly, daring to look back down at the SMG.
UMP45 scratched her cheek. ''Probably not. I wasn't designed with swimming in mind.''
''...so you can't swim?''
''I wasn't designed to.''
''Isn't that the same-?''
''Tut-tut~'' UMP45 cut him off, waggling a finger at him. ''Different.''
He rolled his eyes, earning a snicker from the small-chested SMG, her smug look unfading.
That was until he proposed a question. ''Can you learn how to then?''
UMP45's expression melted into a thoughtful one. ''...I suppose. It's just 'muscle memory', in essence. Others had it built into them, and while I didn't, there isn't anything stopping me from gathering that information.''
With a light smile he offered her a hand. ''Wanna give it a try?''
Once more he was treated to the sight of UMP45 blinking in surprise, the unguarded expression providing him that rare look in at her true thoughts, unconcealed by her sarcastic smile or her lilted tone. He could see a hint of unease mixed with doubt, alongside a growing swell of interest and something akin to excitement.
Then the moment passed and UMP45 schooled her expression into a half-smile and lidded eyes, managing to come across as both smug and intrigued at once. ''Sure. I'll be in your care then~''
She took his hand, her skin soft against his own. With a light squeeze he hefted the dainty girl up to her feet, flushing when she stumbled up against his chest. UMP45 also flushed a bit but she went with it, winking up at him and taking the lead – strutting towards the ocean and pulling him along, as if the idea of swimming was her idea all along. Dimly he realised it was probably so she didn't look weak in front of HK416; she'd never hear the end of it otherwise.
Soon the water's edge neared, and UMP45 slowed down until he was by her side. Mindful of the T-Doll next to him he walked into the water slowly, the lukewarm water lapping at his shins and gradually rising to his thighs. UMP45 squeezed his hand tighter, not saying a word but conveying her veiled unease. To take someone unable to swim into the open ocean wasn't exactly the best idea, but she had faith in him. He appreciated that.
''Here.'' The Commander murmured as the water reached their chests, shifting towards her.
He wrapped an arm around her lower back, holding UMP45 close to his chest – and finally started kicking his legs, swimming and ordering her to slowly do the same. Leaning back slightly he could keep both afloat in the water, both just drifting slightly. It wasn't proper swimming, but if the genuine look of awe on UMP45's cute face was any indication, the sheer novelty of the experience was more than enough for her.
''Arms around my neck.'' He instructed her gently, flushing when she did so immediately, not an ounce of hesitation to be found. ''You alright?''
''Yes.'' UMP45 blushed, looking aside. ''The sensation is just strange. It feels like I'll just sink if I let go.''
He smiled wryly, loosening his hold on her just a tiny bit. ''You won't; I'm here. Now, just start to kick your legs like this...''
Slowly, bit by bit, he coaxed UMP45 out of his arms. He maintained a close distance and always had one hand on her body, mostly to reassure her, and with some gentle practice the T-Doll managed to understand the basics of it. In the shallows there wasn't much risk of drowning but she clearly despised the thought of having her head underwater; something he couldn't really argue with. It wasn't exactly a pleasant sensation for newcomers.
Soon UMP45 was swimming on her own... albeit with her hands on his shoulders. Considering she was the T-Doll equivalent of a novice with zero swimming experience, it was a pretty big leap for a couple dozen minutes of swimming. Though she wasn't quite ready for swimming under her own power.
A fact he was reminded of as UMP45's hands slipped off his shoulders and she immediately yelped, sinking slightly into the deep blue water – only for his arms to snake back around her lower back.
''Easy there.'' The Commander soothed the T-Doll; her cheeks rapidly going red. ''I've got you, 45.''
The latter words were spoken in a softer murmur, directed only at her and no-one else. Perhaps because of that, UMP45 held him a little tighter.
''You alright?''
''O-Of course... I'm just, getting my breath is all...''
He smiled lightly. ''Right, of course you are. Take as long as you need.''
UMP45 huffed against his shoulder, something almost like a pout on her little pink lips.
…
Soon the T-Doll grew tired of swimming, and with him guiding her they returned to the beach.
UMP9 had returned by now and was feasting upon the goodies hidden away in the snack box, HK416 was barking at her to stop eating 'her' snacks, and G11 was still snoozing under her sandcastle; a seagull perched atop the sandy tower at its peak. The short T-Doll remained undisturbed.
''Here.'' The Commander said as they neared their towels, one arm still wrapped around her lower back.
UM4P5 wasn't oblivious to that detail, a slight smirk curling at her lips. ''You've been awfully hands-on today, Commander~''
He flushed. ''Sorry.''
However the moment he loosened his hold UMP45 grasped his arm, keeping it where it was. ''That's not to say I dislike it, of course.''
When his cheeks reddened a tinge more the T-Doll giggled, smugly lowering herself down onto the towel with him beside her, his arm still snaked around her lower back. Inevitably HK416 would make a comment on it, UMP9 would whine about how she wants a cuddle too, and G11 would either snooze away the day or moan about needing help getting free.
But for this moment, he let himself enjoy their shared closeness – and when UMP45 daintily rested her head on his shoulder, he said nothing about it.
X-x-X
Several weeks passed, and soon the yearly anniversary of G&K neared, the date looming closer by the day.
The main hall was already dressed up for the occasion, the final decorations being put in place as T-Dolls scrambled about to finish things up. Large ribbons and banners were hung from the ceiling, big tables were set out to be filled with food, the whole shebang. It was a rare treat for the T-Dolls under his command and one authorised by Kryuger himself; after all the man wasn't so cold he treated T-Dolls solely as machines.
The Commander wandered down the halls of the dorm wing, the faintest hints of anxiety gnawing at his mind. The whole affair was going to be a happy one, he was sure, and he had seen many T-Dolls dressing up in full evening gowns or party dresses. He had also had several T-Dolls offering to be his date for the night, and while he was flattered by the offer, he always felt like they just weren't the right 'fit' for him. And soon after some introspection, he realised there was only one T-Doll he was eager to have hanging off his arm.
Although considering her disposition, it'd likely be the other way around.
He cracked a slight smile at that, the humour easing his quick heartbeat. The halls around him grew quiet as he wandered down them, heading to one room in particular. Contrary to the past he did see evidence of a few others having come and gone; a sign that 404 had become that tiny bit more open to the rest of the base. It was a slow process, and even then it was mostly UMP9 doing the talking, but the fact the rogue group of dolls were making friends warmed his heart.
Soon the Commander arrived at one door in particular; the metal engraved yet showing signs of being lived in. The bits of chocolate sticking to the underside of the handle gave that away.
'I'll have to remind 9 to clean up after herself again, won't I?' He dryly thought, rapping his knuckles across the metal door.
Silence reigned for a few moments, reigniting his lingering anxieties – until the door soon hissed open, revealing UMP45 on the other side.
''Hm? Commander?'' The shorter girl blinked up at him, slightly surprised. Nobody else was in the room behind her. ''Is there something you need?''
''Nothing much. I, uh, just wanted to ask...'' He smiled sheepishly. ''The anniversary party is tomorrow night...''
''Uh-huh?''
''And I was wondering if you'd... be my partner, for the night.'' His cheeks warmed up as he asked.
UMP45 flushed pink, her cute expression overflowing with surprise, her mouth opening slightly in a decidedly adorable manner – before she quickly looked aside, lips quirking up into a familiar half-smile. One that failed to hide her genuine delight.
''Sure. I suppose it's only natural, being the leader of 404.'' UMP45 said airily. ''Pick me up at quarter to seven; I'll be ready then~''
With a slight smile of his own he agreed, pointedly not commenting on her glowing visage as he left.
X-x-X
Finally the night of the anniversary arrived, the whole base bustling and mingling in the main hall.
The Commander strolled casually down the halls through the dorms, heading straight for the 404 dorms. It was more of a mingling party than one of those fancy prim-and-proper ones, so he just went with a regular black suit, not bothering to dress up with his medals or official cap and uniform – a private relief, considering how tight-fitting the official formal uniform could be. G&K was far from a tailor, after all.
As he turned a corner he caught sight of UMP9, the brunette cheery and clad in a black dress with frills. Behind her was G11 in a much more simple pale blue dress, groggy-looking as always and mumbling to HK416 about food – said T-Doll grumbling back at her to be patient, her own curvy frame concealed beneath a white-blue frilly dress, her black heels clicking against the hard floor.
''Hm? Ah, good evening Commander!'' UMP9 cheerily greeted him.
''Hey.'' He returned the greeting with a smile and wave. ''Where's 45?''
''She's still in our room.'' HK416 remarked, gazing at him flatly. ''Waiting for you, apparently.''
The Commander chuckled ruefully at that, and with a quick few comments about having fun he continued on his way towards 404's dorm room – soon arriving before the door. He rapped his knuckles upon it like he had done so many times before, curiosity bubbling inside him as he waited it to open.
Soon it slid open – and revealed UMP45 in all her glory. A confident half-smile was curled at her lipstick-clad lips, her eyes narrowed with amusement and her hair done up into a high-ponytail, reaching midway down her shoulders. Her slim shoulders were fully revealed by the strapless black evening gown she wore, the silky material falling down to her ankles and with a matching sash around her stomach, keeping the dress snug-fitting on her petite frame.
''Hm~?'' UMP45 somehow managed to look even more smug. ''Enjoying the sights, Commander~?''
''Sorry.'' He flushed, averting his gaze.
In response the petite T-Doll giggled, snaking her arms around his own and stepping out of her room. ''How many times do I have to say it, Commander...''
She poked him on the cheek, the action surprisingly affectionate. ''That's not to say I dislike it~''
UMP45 giggled at the blush that dusted his cheeks, tugging on his arm. He took the hint and the two began strolling down the halls, his blush gradually fading as they fell into amicable silence, the tapping of their shoes the only sound to be heard. Soon they reached a crossroad in the hall – but rather than going straight ahead to the main hall, he took a left.
Something that his partner was quick as ever to pick up on. ''Oh? Did you have something else in mind for tonight?''
He smiled lightly. ''I know you aren't keen on attention, so I had Enfield leave the back door unlocked. We can go in through there without drawing as much attention.''
''How considerate of you~'' UMP45 cooed almost-flirtatiously, squeezing his arm. ''I appreciate that~''
A chuckle rumbled from the Commander's throat and a lighter one came from UMP45, their quiet footfalls carrying them out to the exit doors. He held the door open for her and UMP45 played along, slipping out into the darkening night, the stars already starting to come out. A dirt path led from the dorms around to the main hall, the path illuminated by streams of gold from the many windows lining the buildings adjacent to it, and one the duo found themselves strolling down.
Within a couple minutes they arrived at their destination; a pair of open glass doors located at the back. A few T-Dolls had gathered around to chat and drink with the cool night air to accompany them, but they only spared him and his date a brief look and smile before returning to their own conversations. UMP45 relaxed somewhat at that, her slim shoulders losing their stiffness as he led her inside, the throngs of people too busy eating and chatting to really care about his arrival. It wasn't as if he didn't see them every day after all; there was no real urgency to take the chance to speak with him.
''My, Springfield sure did a good job.'' UM4P5 commented as she gazed up at the string of golden lights overhead – recently refitted ones too.
''Mm.'' He agreed. ''G36 and G36C both had a hand in that. And everyone else too; it was a team effort to get this place looking so good in such a short time.''
''Be sure to give them my thanks then.''
''You could tell them yourself. I'm sure they're wandering about.'' He bumped her shoulder with his own. ''And I'm sure it'd be a nice conversation starter.''
UMP45 merely hummed, though didn't look entirely opposed to the idea. Springfield was already something like a friend, and the G36-sisters weren't far off, so the chances of her talking to them was higher than it would be with other dolls.
Smiling at the thought the Commander tugged on her arm, leading her towards the food tables. ''Here. Food's on the house; eat as much as you like.''
''Oh? Why the sudden suggestion~?''
He hummed, grabbing a plastic plate of his own. ''You usually don't eat all that much, and it's a rare occasion to try some new foods. Best to make the most of it.''
UMP45 however rose a brow at him. ''I'm surprised you noticed that I don't eat much. And here I thought I was being subtle.''
The Commander merely smiled slightly. ''It's a natural response after living on limited food rations for a long time. Only way to get over it is to get used to eating more than you used to.''
''Is that so...?'' UMP45 hummed, procuring two glasses and a nearby bottle of red wine – daintily pouring them two glasses. ''I suppose I can give it a try then.''
His quiet chuckle brought a slight smile to her face, and soon the night bled away in a mix of music, food, and wine.
…
Many drinks later, the Commander found himself back outside, counting the sparkling stars once more.
UMP45 leaned on his right arm, indulging in a slice of chocolate cake as the walked, both remaining in amicable silence. Occasionally they started a little conversation before mellowing out back into peaceful silence, neither too fussed about disturbing it. The alcohol he had consumed buzzed at his mind and UMP45 looked a little tipsy too, but not enough to truly bother either of them. Small mercies that T-Dolls couldn't get 'drunk' in the same manner as a human, though they weren't freed from the effects either.
A-91 was a perfect example of that. Or better put, a bad example of that.
A chuckle rumbled from his throat, the sound drawing a curious look and raised brow from his date, but he merely waved it off. She rolled her eyes and swallowed the last of her cake, accepting the tissue he offered her and wiping her fingers clean – though not before dragging her index finger along her lips, gathering the crumbs upon it and allowing her to pop it into her mouth, not wasting a single bit if she could help it. The twinkle in her eye betrayed the teasing intent behind it.
Flushing lightly the Commander glanced back up at the sky. They were far enough away from the base that the ever-present gold and silver lights were dimmed, the forest around them sparse but enough to give a sort of serenity to the place. A slight hill inclined upwards and he guided UM4P5 up it, the trees parting near the crest of the hill to reveal the sky more clearly. Noticing that he slowed down, easing himself down onto the grassy mound and prompting UMP45 to join him.
His cheeks reddened as the T-Doll snuggled up close; one arm snaking over his shoulders and the other draped partly over his chest, allowing her to nest her head against his shoulder. She gazed at the stars for a few moments before looking at him, eyes warm as they gazed into his own, her usual sarcastic half-smile and lidded eyes nowhere to be seen.
''You alright?'' The Commander asked lightly, snaking one arm around her lower back; holding her close.
''Mm.'' UMP45 agreed, pushing her head into his collarbone and nuzzling him. ''Just enjoying the moment.''
She shifted a little further up, ending at eye-level with him. ''Thanks to you, I can do that now.''
Her lips curved upwards. ''So let me make it up to you, for everything that you've done... Commander~''
UMP45's words ended in a low, almost-sensual whisper – and then her lips pressed against his own. It was a soft kiss, her lips springy as they graced his own; and when he slowly kissed her back she exhaled a slow breath, her rosy lips meshing with his own. Both her arms snaked around the back of his neck and she shifted herself onto his lap, enticing him to hold her side with one hand and cup her cheek with the other, stroking her cheek with his thumb.
Slowly their lips separated, a mutual exhale punctuating the end of the kiss. UMP45 gazed into his eyes, curious – and blushed when he tugged her into another kiss. Her eyes fluttered shut with a low groan and she kissed him back, holding onto him tighter as their lips smacked together with a touch more passion than before, no words needing to be said. Burning lungs forced him back but UM4P5 reconnected their lips not a second later, pushing against him more and more until he laid back on the grass, both his hands moving to her waist.
Finally their lips popped apart with a quiet gasp, their heavier breathing ringing in his ears. ''45...''
The T-Doll smirked softly at him, shifting so she was straddling his waist before she leaned down for another kiss. He gave her it, groaning into her mouth as their lips meshed together, daring to slid his hands up her sides. UMP45 shuddered at his wandering hands but didn't make him stop, encouraging him to tickle his hands up her bare underarms and over her bare shoulders, soon curving back down her smooth back to her butt – resting his hands upon her rear and giving it a slow squeeze.
UMP45 shuddered into the kiss, aroused. The sight tempted him to squeeze her butt more, relishing the small but shapely nature of it, her dress thin enough that it failed to hide her slight curves. While she wasn't as physically developed as UMP9 that didn't deter his arousal even slightly, his hands toying with her small ass with slow-building passion. That was until UMP45 groaned into his mouth and broke off the kiss, giving him a hot smirk.
''Ssh.'' She laid a finger over his lips when he tried to speak, untangling her arms from his neck.
She said nothing further, but the glint in her eyes told him she had something planned. A fact proven true when UMP45 slowly shifted backwards, the quiet ruffling of her dress the only sound in his ears as she moved down his body, her face soon ending at his crotch. Two quick tugs loosened his belt and a third yanked it off entirely, allowing UMP45 to unbutton his boxers – his cock springing out and nearly bobbing her on the nose.
The T-Doll blushed at the sight of his swelling cock. However that surprise failed to stop her from lifting a hand and curling her lithe fingers around his dick, her hand warm and soft as she pressed her palm again it – the mere contact making him groan. UMP45 glanced up at him and she regained her hot smirk, giving his cock an achingly slow stroke, cooing when his dick throbbed into her hand.
''Hmhm... how cute, Commander.'' UMP45 cooed.
The Commander shuddered in response, stifling a groan as his date stroked his cock again. She leaned in a bit and took a lick of the tip, eyes flickering between his face and his cock as she teased him, her little pink tongue wet as it lapped at the tip. Her hand gradually sped up its strokes as she got used to the motion, her palm pressing against his dick with each roll of her wrist. UMP45 licked his dick more too, her tongue swirling around the tip teasingly before licking up-and-down, alternating between the two.
Then without warning she kissed the tip, and took him inside. The Commander couldn't contain his low groan of pleasure, shudders racing through him as UMP45's lipstick-clad lips slid down his shaft. Her mouth was hot and wet with saliva, her tongue soon teasing the tip with quick wiggling licks. Experimentally she sucked on it a few times, tilting her head this way and that as she got used to it, daringly sinking her head down little by little while she sucked him off.
''Nn... 45...'' He murmured in a tight voice.
UM4P5 looked up at him, smirking slightly – her head tilted to the side and only emphasising her amused expression. Slowly she uncurled her fingers from his cock, allowing the T-Doll to push her head deeper down his girth, eliciting a low moan from the Commander as his twitching dick was engulfed by her pleasurable mouth. UMP45 wasn't content with just a little sucking either; her sucks growing stronger and more lewd, the sounds audible as she began to bob her head up and down, both her hands coming to rest on his hips.
With a groan he tipped his head back, gazing up at the stars. He couldn't last more than a few moments before he had to look back down at UMP45, unable to not watch her give him head. Some hair fell in front of her face as she tilted her head, prompting her to lift her hand off his hip and brush it aside; the act looking even more sensual when her cheek was bulging with his cock. An intentional tease, he realised after a moment – spotting the glint of amusement in her warm eyes.
And as if to tease him further UMP45 pulled her head back, allowing his now-wet cock to spring free from her lips – her hand soon grasping his shaft and jerking him off. ''Hmhm... are you nearly there, Commander~?''
''Maybe...'' He murmured breathlessly.
UMP45 giggled softly at that, looking him in the eye as she swirled her tongue around the tip of his dick. The ticklish pleasure made him groan, his cock throbbing as she stroked the underside with her tongue – and soon guided him back into her mouth. Warm wetness engulfed his shaft and UMP45 went right back to sucking him off, wet slurps escaping her rosy lips as she bobbed her head up and down his dick, the tip soon hitting the back of her throat.
However UM4P5 took him deeper; a stifled groan rumbling from his throat as he felt his cock ease down her throat. The T-Doll smirked victoriously at him, deep-throating him with each bob of her head, intimately aware of how much he pulsed and throbbed against her stroking tongue. The pressure in his cock built and built, his shaft burning-hot as he held back his swelling climax – and as UMP45 groaned hotly around his cock, he couldn't contain it any longer.
''Mn-!'' His hips bucked up as he came; thick ropes of cum shooting down her throat.
UMP45 made a muffled, surprised sound – eyes briefly going wide before she fluttered them shut, swallowing his load with audible gulps. She kept her lips pursed around his cock, not letting even a single drop of his cum escaped as she swallowed all of it.
Only once his orgasm subsided did UMP45 pull her lips off his cock with a gasp, panting lightly as she recovered from the ordeal. That was until he called her name and beckoned her close, and the moment she crawled close enough he snaked his arms around her – flipping them over so she was on her back, with him atop her.
''Mm... Commander...'' UMP45 shuddered as he loomed over her, tilting her head aside. ''I- Mm?!''
A surprised moan fled UMP45's lips as he attacked her neck with a string of kisses, tickling her sensitive neck and making her lithe body writhe beneath him. He slid his hands down her sides and grasped the front of her dress, pulling it down to expose her small, perky breasts – her pinkish nipples hard with both arousal and from the cold. The T-Doll didn't get a chance to pass a comment before his lips slid down her jugular and over her collarbone, kissing her small tits and taking one of her nipples into his mouth.
UMP45 arched her back, moaning under her breath and laying one hand on his head, her fingers tangling into his hair whilst the other gripped at the grass. He sucked on her perky nipple for a few passionate seconds before swapping to the other one, loving how her tit heaved against his lips with each gasping breath she took. Soon however UMP45 tugged on his hair and pulled him up into a heated kiss, prompting him to slide his hands further down to her waist.
''Mmph...'' UMP45 shuddered as their lips separated. ''Commander...''
The Commander swallowed, leaning back. Her hair was slightly messy from their activity, her rosy lips were parted as she panted, her cheeks were flushed red and her eyes half-lidded with arousal. In that moment, the normally-sarcastic T-Doll had never looked more inviting.
That thought tempted him to slide his hands under her dress, hiking it up. UMP45 bit her bottom lip and grasped it for him, helping bundle it up around her stomach and exposing her creamy legs, a pair of lacy black panties hugging her hips. He ran his fingers over the front and she shivered, the material damp with unmistakable arousal. In response he stroked her underwear more insistently, a slight smile on his lips as he watched her expression twist gentle pleasure.
''Mm...'' UMP45 didn't say anything, but the lust in her eyes begged for more.
In response he curled his fingers around the front of her underwear, tugging it aside. Her pussy lips were soft against the back of his fingers, arousal making them wet and slippery as he ran his fingertips over them. UMP45 groaned his name and he eased two insides her, gently fingering her and eliciting a cute gasp from her rosy lips, her shoulders curling inwards with pleasure. She squeezed his fingers tight as he pushed them in deeper, soon adding a third and thrusting them inside.
After only a few quick moments however, he pulled his fingers back out. UMP45 shuddered and gazed down at him, but any dissatisfaction melted when he grasped his cock, stroking it back to full hardness. UMP45 flushed red and opened her legs a little wider, inviting him to lean in and press his hard cock against her wet folds, stroking the tip up against her wet core, the mere touch earning a soft moan from UMP45.
''Mm...'' UMP45 demurely slipped one hand down, tangling her fingers with his in a rare sign of weakness. ''Be gentle...''
''I will.'' The Commander leaned in and kissed her on the forehead.
UMP45 cracked a smile at that, bracing – and then whimpered as his cock pushed inside her. Her wetness let him slide inside her easily at first, but UMP45 had never had sex prior to then; a fact he was reminded of as her tight insides clenched around his intruding cock. He groaned, one hand on hers while his other planted itself onto the grass next to her, allowing him to slowly thrust into the tight SMG and spread her inner walls apart.
He kept moving until he had half his cock buried inside her pussy, stopping with a shudder. UMP45 mewled beneath him, face flushed red and expression strained. Using his free hand he soothingly groped her breast and kissed her on the lips, devouring her soft moans and whimpers as she got used to having something so big inside her petite body. Little by little the T-Doll relaxed, a shuddering breath escaping her lipstick-clad lips as she nodded at him.
''Go on...'' She breathed.
The Commander murmured an agreement, kissing her on the lips just as he reared his hips back. Her inner walls squeezed him like a wet vice, only growing tighter when he buried his cock back inside her dripping sex. UMP45 gasped slightly and held onto his shoulders, nails digging into his suit jacket before she wrapped her arms around him instead, clutching at his back and pulling him down into a messy kiss; one he returned wholeheartedly.
His cock entered her over and over again, her honey coating his shaft in a glistening sheen. He was still sensitive after her amazing blow-job and it showed with how he quickly picked up speed, his cock thrusting deeper and deeper until he hit her deepest parts, their pelvises slapping together. UMP45 groaned hotly at the deep penetration, the sound soon muffled when he reclaimed her lips in another brief kiss; breaking it off a second later for air.
''Mm, ah... ah~'' UMP45 moaned repeatedly, body flush with sweat as he pounded her tight entrance. ''C-Commander...''
She cupped his cheeks and he leaned down, crashing his lips against hers just as she did the same – both of them groaning into the heated kiss. He pushed his tongue into her open mouth and UMP45 nearly melted, her tongue futilely fighting back against his own before she submitted, letting him dominate her mouth as he sheathed himself inside her tightening pussy, any pain and discomfort quickly melting away into pure, nerve-tingling bliss.
His pounding grew rougher but UMP45 merely wrapped her legs around his waist, smiling slightly into the kiss when he was forced to thrust shorter but faster, his cock hammering her deepest parts. Burning lungs forced them apart and she tucked her head into his shoulder, groaning into his ear when he pushed himself flush against her, his pelvis slapping hers so pleasurably her legs buckled and twitched on either side of his waist, her heeled shoes nearly falling off her curled toes.
''Commander, C-Commander...!'' UMP45 gasped and moaned, pussy tightening more and more around his dick – her expression twisting with bliss as she tried to hold on.
''45...'' The Commander gritted out, his cock hammering her wet sex even as pleasure raced up it, his balls tightening-
-until he hit a sensitive spot inside UMP45, and pushed her over the edge.
''AH~!'' UM4P5 let out a cute, shrill cry – spasming against the grass as she orgasmed for the first time.
She coiled like a wet vice around his cock, nigh-strangling his shaft with how tight she became. The sudden tightness proved too much for him to endure, and with a gasp and a groan the Commander slammed into UMP45 and blew his load – thick, gushing ropes of cum pumping inside her quivering womanhood. They painted her insides white and only accentuated her orgasm, her stomach bucking upwards and her eyes wide, open-mouthed pleasure clear on her face.
Then the moment passed and she flopped back onto the grass, gasping loudly and clutching onto him for dear life, mind nearly white from the sensation. She was stirred out of her orgasmic high as he groaned, his cock throbbing inside her and eliciting a much softer moan from UMP45, her orgasmic expression melting into one of demure bliss.
''Mm...'' She shuddered against the cool grass. ''Commander...''
The T-Doll snaked her hands back to his cheeks, pulling him into a brief but love-filled kiss, the brief lip-lock muffling their mutual moans as he pulled out. Cum dribbled freely from her formerly-virgin pussy, the sensation making UMP45 shudder a squirm, the foreign sensation fuelling the simmering arousal inside her. She prodded her folds out of curiosity, blushing when she felt his cum trickle past her finger – prompting her to tug her underwear back into place to stop it running down her thighs.
UMP45 looked up at him, a soft smile gracing her features before she snaked her arms around him, kissing him lovingly – and the moment their lips broke apart, she spoke.
''I love you.''
The Commander smiled gently, kissing her nose. ''I love you too, 45.''
UMP45 giggled faintly, the girlish sound so novel he couldn't help but chuckle alongside her, shifting to her side. The temptation to sit and cuddle was strong, especially under the night sky – but it was getting a bit cold out and others would worry if they were gone for too long.
With that in mind he sat up, snaking one arm under her back and the other under her knees – before picking his newfound lover up bridal-style. UMP45 blushed and looped her arms around his neck, her expression softening as she got comfortable; barely having the mind to tug the front of her dress back up to hide her breasts. No need for others to see her in such a state, after all.
''Commander...'' UMP45 murmured into his neck, inhaling a slow breath as if savouring his presence. ''...stay with me forever, please. I don't want to lose you.''
He smiled, kissing her cheek. ''I will. I promise I'll take care of you forever.''
UMP45 tucked her head in close, her nails digging into him as she let out a soft sniffle – and soon happy tears began to escape her eyes, a radiant smile on her lips.
Finally, UMP45 had found a place she could truly call home – by his side.
[END]