Disclaimer:
Lone Concert Originally by Dawnbuneary
I own nothing. Last time this fanfic has been updated was in 2017 after chapter 6 I absolutely love this fanfic and I do like writing fanfics about fanfics. I will make a few changes in the chapters to add my own flare but after chapter 3 it will be completely my own fanfic. I will take in suggestions from the replies on the original fanfic but I will be continuing the storyline. I do post fanfics about other fanfics I just love the writing so much that I couldn't help but contribute. But since this fanfic is most likely dead like Dr. Frankenstein I'm going to try and breath life back into it. I'm not stealing this fanfic I just couldn't leave it without an ending. Hope you enjoy.
On his daily routine to collect more material, Branch could hear a loud musical number going on somewhere in the village in the distance. Unbelievable. They just didn't know how to be quiet, did they? Even when he's warned them a countless number of times, they still don't listen. They never listen. That's why he keeps as far away from them as possible. As far away from her as possible. He tries to, anyway. Branch, holding his supplies tightly, wandered over to the village where the trolls typically had their daily song. Their singing was getting too loud for his liking… Before he could say anything to scold them, he paused. He could hear her voice better than he could hear the others.
"Never gonna get it,
Never gonna get it,
Never gonna get it,
Never gonna get it,
Never gonna get it,
Never gonna get it
Never gonna get it…"
They sang in perfect harmony. Branch's eyes laid on the pink princess who was conducting them, beaming. "Oh whoa whoa woaaahhh!" Poppy sang clearly and flawlessly. The other trolls beamed and continued singing as a beat started playing. He watched her dance happily as she sang along, and saw her bounce every step she could. Her expression showed no signs of negative emotions. Just optimism and positivity. Like always. She always seemed to smile, especially when he's not around. As she sang, her voice rang clearly. It was a while before Poppy noticed the grey troll watching. He had the smallest hint of amusement on his face, but when he saw her looking at him, his face hastily turned into a frown. Poppy smiled. "Hey, Branch!" She greeted, happily. The other trolls became quiet as they stopped singing. He didn't even notice how many there were. But as soon as they saw him, a lot of them left. The only ones who stayed were Poppy and her close friends.
"What do you think you're doing?" He angrily asked her. "We were just doing our daily warm up song!" She happily answered, her freckles sparkling. "Oh? You mean your daily Bergen call?" Branch snapped back. "Braaaaanch, c'mon, I know you like it!" Poppy replied, unfazed. "Would you like to join us?" Branch gave a sarcastic laugh. "Ha, as if I would sing or dance—" Cooper coughed causing Branch to look over at him suspiciously. "—and risk my life. So, no thank you, Poppy. I'm good, thanks." Branch stubbornly said, his expression matching his tone. "But—" And with that, he was gone. Branch had retreated back into the forest to go back to his bunker. Poppy frowned. "It's okay, Poppy." Suki said after he had left, placing her hand on Poppy's shoulder. "He's probably going to open up…someday." Poppy nodded. Yeah! Sooner or later he will. She'll be sure of it.
As soon as Branch reached his bunker, he was greeted by the blue glow bug that accompanied him whenever he sang. It made small, excited noises. "A walk? You don't even walk!" Branch replied, perplexed. It replied. "I'm busy, I can't take you for a walk." The grey troll said, frowning. It replied again. "Why don't you just go to the beach yourself? You can fly on your own."
…
"Possible dangers?" Branch repeated, surprised by the bug's similar behavior to himself. Then he chuckled. "Heh, okay you got me. Let's go." Branch knew what their game was but played along anyway. It wasn't hard. All Branch had to do was walk to the beach while his small companion flew excitedly around him, often pausing to examine a tree or sniff a flower or something. He had to admit, it was quite adorable. It would occasionally leave a sparkly trail here and there, but that wasn't his problem. This bug was a free and independent one. It wasn't Branch's pet. Just his friend. He can't say that about a lot of people.
As it squeaked some words to him, Branch finally reached the beach. He stepped on the sandy land. "When?" He repeated, kicking a stone. "I don't know. It depends on if I get inspired again." More squeaks. "Shut up..!" Branch said, flushing stubbornly. The small bug gave a squeaky little laugh as it flew around, exploring the beach. Branch sighed and sat near the coastline. He could hear the excited sounds as his friend zoomed around cheerfully. It seemed like his only friend in the world. Well…unless you count Poppy. He doesn't, but he also does..? It's complicated. He doesn't act like a very good friend to her, but she does to him. She considers him her friend, but he doesn't. She's not his friend, but he's hers. See? Complicated.
The ocean was nice to look at. Things were better when he just didn't think. Things were better when he could relax. Things were simpler when he just didn't think about her. "Branch?" Ugh, her voice was stuck in his head. It was both annoying and…not. Mostly the former. "Branch, hello?" Go away, voice. He's trying to relax here. He thought as he closed his eyes, taking a deep breath. "BRANCH!" Jumping from fright he whipped his head around to see that the voice had not just been a voice in his head, but SHE was actually there. Poppy was right there. What the? "Poppy?"
"Yeah." She chuckled. "What are you doing here?" She looked at him curiously. She had seen him leave his bunker with the glow bug and decided to follow them. "I might ask you the same question," Branch said, eyeing the small bag she held. Poppy looked at it then smiled. She opened it and pulled out a small shell. "I was just collecting seashells for Satin and Chenille to use as accessories." She said not completely lying she was doing that but only after she started to follow Branch. Not like a stalker or anything.
"That's a bad idea. First of all, shells break easily. Second, you don't know what kinds of diseases those things could hold." Branch replied, rolling his eyes. Poppy shrugged and went to sit next to him, not feeling the need to ask if she was intruding. Branch didn't bother telling her to go away. It wouldn't do anything. "So whatcha' doing here?" Wanting to change the subject of diseases. "Just walking that little guy." He said nonchalantly, pointing to the small bug who was currently too busy examining a small crab that walked across the beach. "Hey, get away from that, it'll pinch you!" Poppy recognized it. But she couldn't let Branch know. "Aww!" She cooed. "Is it your pet?"
"Kind of. But not really." He merely replied. Branch didn't have to provide its food or anything, but he does take care of it in a way. "That's so cute!" Poppy cooed again, overwhelmed by the adorableness of it all. Branch rolled his eyes at her behavior. The glow bug, now noticing the new troll, excitedly flew zoomed over to her. It knew who she was. It's seen her talking with Branch before. Yay! New friend! "Oh..!" Poppy squealed, seeing the bug approach her quickly. She beamed. "Hi!" The bug was enjoy the attention from her. The bug squeaked a few words. Poppy squealed once again, unable to contain her giddiness.
"Oh my gosh, you are so CUTE!" She said happily, her freckles sparkling again. Immediately, Poppy wrapped her arms around the bug and it snuggled up against her. Branch watched in amusement. Growing a small smile. "Yeah, it's a cuddler." Branch commented. He never really knew, to be honest. He never tried hugging it before. "Glitz is their name, by the way." Poppy just giggled at the glow bug. "Aww, you're a little sweetheart, aren't you, Glitz? Aren't youuu~?" She baby-talked, pinching its cheeks lightly. It giggled and she gave it another warm hug.
"Don't talk to them like that." Branch said, slightly weirded out. "Pfft, whatever." She chuckled as she focused her attention on the adorable bug. Branch looked at her, a small smile replacing his frown. How was it that she was never fazed by his rudeness? Is that why she's one of his only friends? Because she can see past his attitude? Or is it her naivety?
Maybe that's why she's the only troll he ever seems to notice. Because while the others are quick to write him off as a grump, she was the only one who kept trying to get him to show his true self. He almost wants to. But he knows better. That's dangerous. All of the other trolls just seem like they're in the background to him. Save for Poppy's friends, of course. They seem a little more willing to give him a chance, although they're quicker than Poppy to give up. He doesn't blame them. Every time he's given a chance, he pushes it away.
"I wish I had my own glow bug." Poppy commented, Glitz sitting in her arms. "Yep…" Branch absent-mindedly replied. What was it that keeps her so positive? Has nothing bad ever happened to her? Squeaking. How is it that the princess of the trolls just happens to be the most optimistic? Squeaks. How is it that she always has hope? Squeaking. Why do the bad things always happen to him? "Uh, Branch..?" He heard her say. He suddenly realized he had been staring. "Yeah?" He replied, acting normally. "Glitz is trying to talk to you, I think." She said, looking down at the bug in her arms. It had an unamused face as it looked at Branch. It really didn't appreciate being ignored. Ohhh, so THAT'S what that squeaking was. He totally zoned out.
"Oh." He instinctively said. "Sorry, Glitz, what was that?" Glitz sighed and repeated what it was saying. Branch looked at the sky. It was a slightly darker shade of blue than before. "Yeah, you're right." Branch said, standing up. "We better head back now." Poppy stood up and released Glitz, smiling. "Well, this was fun!" She said happily. "But I should be heading back to. The twins will be wondering where I am."
"Uh huh," Branch replied, walking away, Glitz following him. It squeaked its goodbyes to the princess. Poppy giggled and waved, although Branch couldn't see her do it. "Bye Glitz! Bye Branch!" As Branch and Glitz headed to his bunker, the small bug spoke to him. "What do you mean?" Branch replied.
…
"Staring?! No, I wasn't!"
…
"You're crazy, I wasn't staring."
…
"Eye contact is important when speaking to someone."
...
"…Whatever." Branch responded, grumpily. "So what? It's not the first time it happened today…" Poppy could barely hear the conversation Branch was having with Glitz but she couldn't help but giggle at the sight.
"…and then he had to go. Which was a shame, but can you believe it?" Poppy asked her friends excitedly. "I think he's opening up!" Poppy and her friends were currently sitting in a field, relaxing and gossiping. Poppy had been going on and on about her encounter with Branch at the beach. She was excited. The grump wasn't so grumpy that time! "Wow, that's great!" Guy Diamond exclaimed. "Sooner or later, he'll be one of us. I know it!" Poppy said. "Not that he ISN'T one of us already." Poppy quickly said correcting herself. "How was he like?" Smidge asked.
"Well, he was still kinda sarcastic and stuff, but not really in a mean way. And he was speaking to me normally. He wasn't stressed like he usually is. Maybe that's the thing! Maybe he just needs to be in a calm state to be happy!" Poppy replied, thinking out loud. "Like whenever he sings, it's never crazy, upbeat or anything." Smidge nodded, only understanding about half of her quick rambling. "Speaking of which." Suki said, "when do you think he'll sing again?" Poppy looked at her hug time bracelet and then looked towards the sky.
"He usually does it around this time, save for the first time." She replied. Then she beamed widely, her cheeks glowing. "Do you guys want to go see?" They all enthusiastically agreed—well, most enthusiastically agreed. Poppy hopped up and led the way into the forest, basically learning the route by heart now. "Slow down, will you?" Creek requested as he and the others tried to keep up. He didn't even want to hear Branch sing tonight. He didn't like all the attention she was giving Branch. And worse he was starting to think that she was developing feelings for the grey troll. Romantic ones. Even if she didn't know it yet. Soon, they reached the clearing, now hiding in their own bush camouflage. They all looked at the large mushroom. Of course, he was there.
Glitz could be seen next to him as Branch wrote in his book. "Be patient." He told Glitz. "I literally only started writing a couple of hours ago. I'm nearly done anyway." He hummed a melody and he scribbled more words down. Poppy smiled softly. "When's he gonna start..?" Cooper whispered. Poppy shushed him quietly, listening. "This should be enough for now…" Branch mumbled, reading over the page. Glitz beamed and flew around. It seemed to be getting the ensemble of creatures ready. Those creatures always spontaneously knew the lyrics. They started singing acapella as one with a higher pitched voice singing in the background.
"I know you like it, I know you like it,
I know you like it, I know you like it,"
The unknown background voice sang. Branch looked up from his book and rolled his eyes. He seriously has no idea how these creatures get the melody before he's even started singing, really. He doesn't even question it anymore…
"Don't know why, but girl,
I'm feeling close to you,
Maybe it's this ocean view,
I'm so emotional,
And all these stars been dancing on my head,
Too long, too long, too long…"
He began singing with his clear voice. The song, again, wasn't loud or crazy. Poppy watched intently, all of her focus on the performance. Watching him perform has easily become one of her favorite things in the world.
"I wrote a song for you,
I wanna sing to you,
But every time I'm close to you,
The words wanna come out, but I forget,
It's so strong, so strong, so strong…"
Yeah, no kidding. So Branch wants to sing to a certain someone, huh? Why doesn't he just do it? Poppy doesn't understand what he's waiting for. Then again, it's Branch. He isn't as open about emotions as the rest of them are. She's just saying, he has nothing to worry about… Then again whenever Poppy thought about Branch finally admitting his feeling towards this mystery troll she started to get a deep pit in her stomach like when she ate too many of Cooper's cupcakes. But worse. Why was she feeling like this? She wants him to be happy. But maybe she wanted him to be happy with her more. No, that's crazy, maybe she was just worried about Branch getting hurt by this troll. Yes that has to be it.
"It might seem like I'm catching something,
That's because it's true,
I can't deny it
And I won't try it,
But I think that you know…"
He sang beautifully. Poppy stifled a laugh then rolled her eyes. Yeah, right. Branch was the king of denial.
"I look around and everything I see is beautiful,
Because all I see is you,
And I can't deny it,
And I stand by it,
And I won't hide it anymore…"
Aww, how sweet. Geez, who knew Branch was such a sappy romantic? It's kinda cute. No doubt, if he weren't so introverted, a lot of people will fall for him. Not that Poppy would, but you know.
"A crowded room anywhere,
A million people all around,
All I see is you there,
Everything just disappears, disappears, disappears, disappears
Yeah a million people in a crowded room
But my camera lenses only set to zoom
And it all becomes so clear, becomes so clear, becomes so clear…"
Too bad Branch refuses to perform with them. The other trolls would've LOVED to hear him sing…
"I got that tunnel vision
For you…
I got that tunnel vision
For you
I got that tunnel vision
For you
I got that tunnel vision
And all I see is you
Yeah…"
"I got that tunnel vision for you…" Poppy echoed quietly. She said it more than sang it. Only Creek heard her but it still aggravated him.
"I got that tunnel vision
For you…
I got that tunnel vision
For you
I got that tunnel vision
For you
I got that tunnel vision
And all I see is you
Yeah…
Now that I know the truth,
What am I supposed to do?
Changing up and
Breaking all my rules
Ever since we met
I'm so gone, I'm so gone, I'm so gone…
Just like a movie shoot
I'm zoomin' in on you
Everything is extra
And the background just fades into the set
As we ride off into the sun…"
Okay, but seriously. Why does Branch not just sing what he feels? No Bergen is going to hear this, unfortunately for them, and he has a great voice! Poppy is almost frustrated at this point, but his music seems to calm her down at the same time.
"It might seem like I'm catching something,
That's because it's true,
I can't deny it
And I won't try it,
But I think that you know…
I look around and everything I see is beautiful,
Because all I see is you,
And I can't deny it,
And I stand by it,
And I won't hide it anymore…
"A crowded room anywhere,
A million people all around,
All I see is you there,
Everything just disappears, disappears, disappears, disappears
Yeah a million people in a crowded room
But my camera lenses only set to zoom
And it all becomes so clear, becomes so clear, becomes so clear…"
"I got that tunnel vision
For you…
I got that tunnel vision
For you
I got that tunnel vision
For you
I got that tunnel vision
And all I see is you
Yeah…"
The music died down once again as Branch gestured for the creatures to turn it down. He ceased singing gracefully as the music came to a stop. Glitz looked at him questionably. Branch picked up his book and climbed down the mushroom, Glitz following him, squeaking. "Because I'm not done yet. Anyway, I think it sounds pretty good on its own. But yeah, I'll add more later…" Branch told the bug, heading towards his bunker, like usual. But before he left, Branch glanced around, sure he heard something earlier. He eventually shrugged it off and left.
Once they were sure he was gone, the trolls uncovered themselves. Guy Diamond clapped. "Bravo!" He said, looking impressed. "Dude, maybe he should play at one of our parties. Just imagine he's singing with my beats." Suki pondered, excitedly. "He doesn't seem like the type to like that kind of music, though." Creek added, shrugging. He was impressed, sure, but he couldn't imagine Branch performing at one of their fun parties. Just saying. "Who knows? He could grow to like it!" Chenille suggested, smiling. As they talked animatedly, Poppy starred in the direction Branch left in. Many thoughts were swirling through her head there. Things like if Branch would even consider ever singing at a party or what kind of party Branch would like or who Branch is always singing about? But there was one main thought she pondered over.
'It was okay to feel a little attracted, right?'
Poppy was feeling more and more uneasy about the fact that she was starting to feel stronger feelings for her grey friend.
The next day, Poppy woke up feeling more energetic than usual. And that was saying something. The princess popped out of bed, ready to start the day. Today, she was going to get answers. Today, she was going to make progress! Yeah! Poppy walked into the village, a skip in each step. She wasn't sure what was making her so giddy today, but she liked it! As she skipped past her fellow trolls, Poppy greeted each of them with a smile. "Hello!" She waved to Sky Toranto. "Hi!" She holdered Dr. Plum. "Good morning!" She said to the group of trollings passing by her. The princess already had the day planned out in her head. She thought over it again. Well...okay so she didn't have much of a "plan" per say, more like she wanted to do a certain something. 'Hang out with Branch'.
Yup, that was her plan. She was going to hang out with Branch again today. If she was going to get any answers about his songs or at least progress her friendship with him further, then that'll work for her. Poor guy has been lonely for so long. As his friend, she won't allow that to happen any longer! Even if he refuses to let her help him.
Besides, despite his attitude, he's also fun to hang out with! Sure, he doesn't like it when she sings, dances, hugs, or does anything else fun, but hanging out with him feels somewhat satisfying. Like it's a satisfying change. She loves her friends, but she also kind of likes the way Branch is different. Maybe that's why she's so happy today. Shrugging to herself, Poppy merrily skipped through the village. Then, she paused. To her left, she could see the bakery pod, sending a sweet aroma her way. A sudden but gleeful idea struck her.
'Ooh, that smells nice!' She thought, grinning as she headed towards the pod. A cupcake to start the day wouldn't hurt, right? And maybe she could bring some to Branch as well. As she entered the pod, the bell at the door rang. The troll in charge of their bakery, Garland, saw her come in. "Oh! Princess Poppy! How are you today?" Garland greeted, nicely. "I'm good, thanks! And you?" Poppy said happily. "I'm fine! So what would you like today?" Poppy hummed in thought. Ooh, there were so many choices! Garland always did make the best cupcakes, even better than the ones that Cooper poops...much better. So which ones should she have? Branch never mentioned what kind of cupcakes he liked. She doesn't even know if he likes cupcakes. She'll have to take a guess and hope that he likes the same flavors that she does while also hoping he doesn't have allergies of some sort.
"Hmm, I think I'll have a few strawberry cupcakes today!" Poppy told her. "Hmm...what other flavors would he like...?" This caught Garland's attention. "Oh? He?" Garland repeated, curiously with a teasing tone. Poppy, being oblivious, didn't catch the implication and nodded, smiling. "Yup! And I think I'll take some blueberry cupcakes, please!" Poppy replied, beaming. Garland giggled, not pushing further. "Coming right away!"
Later Poppy came out of the pod holding a basket full of the cupcakes. Ooh, they smelt so good! Branch is gonna love them! Now, off to his bunker! She skipped, happily singing as she made her way to her destination.
"Look into your eyes,
And the sky's the limit..."
She honestly didn't know why she was so excited. She pinned it on her recent progress with Branch, but she can't help but feel that's the only reason. Yes, her recent...attraction might have something to do with it, but it wasn't anything special. It wasn't even enough to call a "crush", so that can't possibly it...whatever, it's not a big deal. He's her friend either way and he deserves to be happy too! Even if he doesn't like the other trolls...even if he's different. But that's the thing. He's not like them. She doesn't know what makes him happy. Loud parties and hugs sure don't do it. She would say he likes singing, but he never seems to like their songs. Branch is a troll which she doesn't understand. No one can understand him fully, not even any of the wisest trolls. This is why he's so secluded. Because they can't understand him. Because he doesn't want them too. Or does he..?
If he just...tells them what he's thinking all of the time. If he just tells them how he feels for once! Sure, he tells them how much he hates singing and dancing and tells them how he thinks they're too dangerous, but Poppy knows he has more on his mind. The songs were proof of that. Obviously, he's the one writing them. And the lyrics must have...some inspiration, right? Like, these songs raise so many questions. The primary one being "who's he singing about?" Then a negative thought creeped into her mind that asked if she wanted to know. Of course she did. But what if she didn't like the answer. Well only one way to find out.
..!
Before she knew it, she was already at the door of the bunker, the familiar setting now clear to her. Standing on the "go away" mat, Poppy reached out to knock on the door...rock. Hesitating for whatever reason, she knocked on it with a nice rhythm. "Branch! Branch! Branch! You in there? It's Poppy!" She waited patiently, rocking back and forth on her feet. Sometimes it took a while for Branch to respond. Maybe he hoped that she would leave if she thought he wasn't there? Ha! Oh, you naive child. Eventually he would open the door. And sure enough, he did. Poppy stepped off the mat when she felt it move. And there, Branch's blue eyes were visible under the mat.
"What? What is it this time?" He asked, exasperated and annoyed. This did not faze the pink troll. This was just normal Branch behavior. "Are you doing anything?" Branch sighed. "Yes-" But before he could find the pink princess cut him off. "Sweet, so you're not busy!" She beamed. "Can I come in?" In a tone that wasn't really asking. "...why?" Branch asked, suspiciously. "I brought you cupcakes!" She then showed him the basket of yummy treats. "You shouldn't have." He replied bluntly. "We can just go back and forth all day, Poppy, you know my answer is no."
"And you know I'm not leaving anytime soon, Branch!" Poppy replied smugly, playing his game. Branch stared at her, looking annoyed. "Fine." Poppy jumped in surprise when the entrance to the bunker opened completely. She stared down the entrance. Wow, she didn't think that would actually work! It usually takes a lot more to convince him… "Are you just going to stand there? Hurry up or a bug might fly in!" Branch's voice nagged her from inside the bunker. Poppy snapped back to reality and went inside, clutching her basket closer to her. She found herself standing next to Branch as he closed the entrance. Of course, this wasn't her first time being in his bunker, but still she was surprised he allowed her to come in so fast.
Looking around, she saw all the mouse traps around their feet. Poppy unconsciously shuffled closer to Branch to avoid standing on one. Did he have to sprinkle traps everywhere? "You have way too many traps, Branch," Poppy commented bluntly. Branch rolled his eyes and pulled the lever. "There is no such thing as too many traps." Poppy chuckled. Yep that was her Branch. Not her Branch. While she tried to forget what she just thought she looked around as the platform they were on descended down into the bunker. She saw glimpses of his many rooms. It seems like more and more appear over the years. "You also have way too much free time."
"At least I use my time productively. Unlike a certain princess I know..." Branch said with a...jokey tone? Poppy slapped his arm lightly, laughing. Poppy caught the split second of a smile on his face before he turned his head the other way. As they reached the bottom, Branch immediately walked off the platform. "So, uh...why'd you get me cupcakes? Did you need something?" Branch asked accusingly, walking in the direction of his kitchen. Poppy followed him, shaking her head. "Because I wanted to! I don't always need a reason to give things to people, you know." She said with a sarcastic tone. Sure, there was a reason for her visit, but not for her cupcakes. Branch looked at her skeptically, but didn't say anything about it. He was still being stubborn. Typical Branch. "C'mon Branch. Just try one!"
In the kitchen, she could see parts of a wooden chair disassembled on the ground. Oh. So that's what Branch is doing. Poppy set the basket on the table next to the chair. "I'm not hungry..." He says as he reaches for a cupcake anyway. Poppy smirked and rolled her eyes and he took a bite. "Soooo~?" She sang, searching his expression for any hint of a smile. "It's okay." He said with a shrug of his shoulders. "That's it?" Poppy exclaimed, surprised. No troll has ever said that Garland's cupcakes are just "okay". Then again, it is Branch. "Good enough, I guess." Branch said going for another one. "I still don't understand why you brought me these." The grey troll deadpanned, munching. He knelt down by the chair to continue assembling it while still eating. "Is there any other reason you came?"
Her train of thought suddenly took a jump as she watched Branch munch on the cupcake. What was she here for again? Cupcakes? Wait no. Questions. She has to be assertive with her questions, but she has to ask him in a way so he doesn't know that she witnessed his performances. Man, interrogating is difficult. Should she build up the conversation or should she just rip off the band aid? Uhhh, if she says it too sudden, he might not feel the need to reveal anything BUT-But-but if she gets it over with, she might get the answer quicker? Take it slow or do it now? Slow? Fast? Slow? Fast? Slow-
"DO YOU HAVE A GIRLFRIEND?"
...Fast.
Bits of cupcake were spit out violently. "Huh?" exclaimed Branch, not believing his ears.
Okay, so she could've worded that better. She just wanted to know who he could possibly be singing about. Judging by his lyrics, he sings about a certain girl, so their must be a lucky troll who he likes or something, right? "I mean...do you have a crush on someone?" she tried again. Branch just stared at her weirdly, as if she was out of her mind. "What?! No." Branch sputtered trying to regain his composure and get rid of his growing blush. "Like...at all?" Poppy nagged, a feeling of uneasiness growing inside her for some reason. Branch, looking a little unnerved, shook his head. "No. Why would you even-?"
"I'm just curious, that's all!" She said, trying to cover her intentions. "I won't tell anyone. Promise." She briefly considered crossing her fingers behind her back but decided against it. "Okay, first of all; I don't like anyone. I have never liked anyone and I never will. Second, even if I did like someone, telling you would mean my secret won't be a secret anymore!" Branch told her, flushing ever so slightly. Aww. Wait- what did he mean by that? "What do you mean?" Poppy said almost whinnely. "I mean that you can't keep a secret to save your life!" Oh.
"Hey!" Poppy cried, puffing her cheeks in frustration. "I can so keep a secret!" Branch took another bite out of a cupcake, chuckling at her expression. He turned away from her to focus back on the chair. "Right. Anyway, this is kind of an immature subject don't you think? What are we, 12?" Poppy smirked at him. "I might as well be." Poppy admitted, laughing. But inside she was disappointed that Branch wasn't telling her anything. It's his right, but still. Guess she'll have to take a dive. "I'll tell you who I like if you tell me who you like?" Branch did not need to hear her say she was in love with Creek. "I already know who you- ugh, I will literally pay you to change the subject right now." Branch said, picking up a chair leg and attaching it to the base. He was honestly getting tired of this silly banter. Poppy sighed, defeated.
"Why did you even want to know? It's not your business." He said, grumpily frowning. He wasn't exactly on board with this subject. Maybe this is why he should never let Poppy inside. Huh. Shoulda known. Poppy shrugged. "I dunno, because friends share secrets! And I just want to get to know you better because, you know, we're friends!" She said, honestly. It wasn't the complete truth, but it wasn't a complete lie. "We are friends, right?" She looked at him honestly. "Uh..." Branch said, attaching the last chair leg. Were they friends? He wasn't really friends with anyone except Glitz. Well, Poppy was sort of like a friend, but it was more like a one-sided friendship. She was usually the one bringing anything into it, but Branch did...value her. Okay, saying he values her is sort of an understatement, but he'd never say that to her face. Anyway...he guesses Poppy counts as one. "I...guess?" Branch answers uncertainty. "I mean, I wouldn't let anyone else in my bunker." Eugh, it's weird admitting that. Poppy squealed, beaming. "Yay! So will you-"
"Nope." Branch interrupted, smirking at her pout. "Don't friends respect each other's privacy?" Looking at her with a smug face. "Ehhhhh..." Poppy says, shrugging. "Sometimes?" Branch snickered, shaking his head. Before he knew it, a loud "ding!" ran through the bunker again. Branch held up his hands. "Don't-!" But Poppy wasn't going to listen. "Hug time!" Poppy laughed as she gave the grey troll a hug. Branch groaned in frustration, but surprisingly didn't push her away. Instead, he just kind stood there, making a grumpy face. Okay so...hugs from Poppy weren't as bad as being bombarded by a crowd of trolls, so that was good. And it's not like hugs from her weren't pleasant, but he could only take it for so long.
Soon enough, Branch pulled her off of him. "Ooookay, that's enough!" Her strawberry-bubblegumy scent already rubbed off on him, he noticed. Great. Faaaantastic. He's perfect Bergen bait now. Thanks a lot, Poppy. "Aww, Why don't you like hugs, Branch? And why do you like being lonely? Why are you so grey?" Poppy asked talkatively, taking a blueberry cupcake and biting on it. It's soooo goood! "Boy, don't you have a lot of questions," Branch merely stated, also eating another strawberry one. "Strawberry was a good choice." Branch said thinking to himself that part of the reason why he liked the strawberry was because it reminded him of the troll in front of him. "Answer my questions, Branch!"
"Ugghhhh, fine." He responded, groaning. If it will get her to stop nagging. "Hugs make me uncomfortable and I just don't like...people. I'm an introvert. There's not much to say about it-" She looked at him confused. "The heck's an introvert?" But Branch just continued. "-And as for my greyness...I don't want to talk about it. Let's just say something bad happened..." he finished, looking anywhere but at her. Poppy's mind wandered and imagined all of the things that could've happened to make him like this. It must have been terrible. It's not easy for a troll to go grey, she guesses. I mean, no one else is grey. Poppy felt empathy for him, even if she didn't know what happened.
"You really don't wanna talk about it..?" She asks softly. He shakes his head, giving her a subtle shrug to let her know it doesn't matter. "Then you don't have to talk about it. At least until you are ready. And I'll be willing to listen once you are." She tries to hug him again. God knows he does NOT want another one. Whoop, she went for the second hug anyway. Poppy had her arms around Branch, rubbing his back with one hand in a comforting way. Branch rolled his eyes. Of course. "Alright, alright. Hug time's been over for like five minutes, princess, please let go." He joked, pulling her off. Poppy giggled, releasing her grip. "Sorry, it just looked like you needed one."
"Look, I'm fine. See? I don't need you or anyone else to keep trying to make sure I'm okay. I'm fine how I am." Poppy looked at him. I mean she really looked at him. "Branch..." Poppy started. "Why don't you want to socialize with the others? Why don't you let us help you?" Branch frowned. He knelt down by the chair once again and pretended to examine it. After a while, he finally responded with. "I'm not like you guys." Poppy bunched her eyebrows trying to understand. "Huh?"
"I mean, we disagree on a lot of things. I don't like parties and you guys do. You guys aren't worried about Bergens but I am. We're never on the same page," he admitted to her. "And just...they don't like me anyway. Probably because I'm not into the same things they are." Poppy was still lost. "But...I like you." Branch dropped what he was doing and turned towards her. He looked at her, head tilted in slight confusion. "We're friends and we couldn't be more different," Poppy continued. "I'm sure they'd love to be your friends if you were willing to give them a chance as well!" Branch couldn't help but show a little smile again. Somehow she was the only one who could manage to get that to happen. He knows exactly why, but it's still a mystery. "Doubt it, but sure. One day." He didn't mean it, but it was a decent thought.
Poppy took his hands in hers without thinking, holding them while bouncing excitedly. Branch flushed, while Poppy started to talk cheerfully. "It's gonna be great! I'm sure they'd love it too! Oh, you could join our parties and come to the village more often! We can hang out whenever you feel like it! Whatever you're comfortable with! Oh! And you can even be friends with other trolls! Like you can talk to Cybil for wisdom and you can talk to Rose whenever you need advice about love! And do you like skitter boarding? Because a bunch of trolls could do it with you! And blah blah blah..."
Branch let her talk, not matter how loud or annoying she was being. He was honestly a little lost for words. Plus, he was a little distracted by their...ahem, connected hands… "You can let go now..." After Poppy finished her chatting-spree, she looked down at their hands and realized what she'd unintentionally done. She blushed and retracted her own. "Ehe, Sorry!" Branch shook his head. Strange. Poppy was being her normal self but...he wasn't nearly as annoyed as he used to be. And nothing's changed about his...feelings for her. They've been the same and still are. Still, he used to be annoyed but isn't anymore? Could this be because of their established friendship or...? Nah, nah, too cheesy...
"Yeah um." Branch said, blushing and averting his eyes. He coughed. "Uh, how long were you planning on staying?" Poppy looked down at her hug time bracelet. She's been there for at least an hour. That's the longest she'd ever been alone with him. Maybe Branch was getting uncomfortable. "Oh, I should probably be leaving now. Sorry." She apologized. She gave him a goodbye wave and swiftly left the kitchen. Branch followed her out and saw her approach the elevator. "It was nice talking to ya! Keep the cupcakes. See ya!" She said as she pulled the lever and ascended before he could say anything. She's going, she's going- aaaaand she's gone.
...
Branch exhaled in relief. Wow, she had a lot of questions. Out of nowhere too. Like, she wanted to know who he had a crush on and how he got grey and all. As if he could tell her those things. If she found out he liked...his life would be ruined..! Ugh, she can be so nosy sometimes. But it wasn't like her visit was a bad one...sure it distracted him from his task, but he can't help but feel like they got closer. And that question about his love life, it's almost as if she actually...
Branch scoffed and went to his room with the shelves and desk. As if she would. Come on, Branch, get it together. He pulled back one of the curtains covering a shelf and took out his trusty song book. Sitting down at the desk, he took a pencil out. God, why couldn't she just leave him alone? If she did, then he wouldn't be feeling these emotions. It's absolute torture. Poppy was unintentionally torturing Branch. How dare she. With her stupid smile and cheeriness. With her stupid bubblegum aesthetic look. With her stupid talented voice. "Idiot..." He started writing.
The next night...
"Poppy! Slow down, please!" Creek whisper-cried as they all quickly followed her down the familiar path. Poppy showed no chance of slowing down, however. "He wasn't even here last night! Maybe he won't be here again?" Poppy shook her head. "Nope! I have a good feeling about tonight!" Creek frowned, trying to keep up. She was getting more and more excited with each performance. He's not sure why, but he isn't as thrilled as her about them. Hm.
Poppy was indeed getting excited. Branch's voice was really...she doesn't know the word for it. Good? No...Great? Nah...Oh! Captivating!That's the word! She'd never say that out loud though. They got to the clearing, camouflaging themselves quickly. Poppy looked at the mushroom and sure enough, Branch was sitting down, writing. Glitz was flying right next to the book, providing him light in the dark night. As Branch focused on his book, Glitz looked around the clearing. And for a minute, she could've sworn she and Glitz locked eyes. It was staring right through her. But how? She was camouflaged. Then…
"Aha!" Branch exclaimed. Glitz broke its gaze with her and looked at Branch. "Finally done." Glitz cheered and then flew around, whistling. Immediately, all the singing plants and creatures came to life and started singing. Branch naturally sang along with them, standing up.
"This goes out to you
This goes out to you, this is dedicated to you...
Dedicated to you, dedicated to you, dedicated to you..."
Branch and the creatures harmonised beautifully. Creatures, bugs and plants glowed and illuminated around him, adding to the scene while adding a contrasting glow to the dark night.
"It was such a mellow, mellow, mellow, mellow, mellow, mellow day
(When you walk by)
It was such a mellow, mellow, mellow, mellow, mellow, mellow day"
Poppy sighed in content, resting her head in her palm as she sat down. So calming...
"I, I can't deny the way you caught my eye
And then something strawberry filled up the sky
And everything on you intoxicates
It's a mystery,
I don't know why I let you kick in my "Do not disturb" sign
But I guess all your affection got me so high
And I could tell it's pure just by the taste
So just kiss me"
Man, who is he talking about? Poppy would love to meet her...lucky duckling. She must be great if Branch likes her. She felt a little disappointed that there could be someone who knows Branch better than her.
"So tell me you wanna get close somewhere far away, far away
Don't worry about your loving it won't go to waste, go to waste
Don't ever change your flavor 'cause I love the taste, love the taste
And if you ask me where I wanna go, I say all the way"
Poppy couldn't but be a liiiittle jealous of this mystery girl. These charming songs are all for her! Has she even heard them?
"'Cause she's just like nothing
That I ever seen before,
Baby please don't change nothing
Because your flavor's so original"
Must be. Wow...maybe this girl is exactly like Branch. No one else is like that so… Oh, that kinda sucks. Poppy's basically the opposite of Branch. Oh well, as long as he found someone who he's happy with. Sure he denied it when she asked him about it earlier, but she knows for sure that he has a girlfriend. I mean, just listen to these lyrics!
"And it all started when she said
Hey hey hey,
smacking that strawberry bubblegum
You really got me when you said
Hey hey hey,
popping that strawberry bubblegum
(Go ahead girl
This goes out to you,
Yeah, this goes out to you,
You know what time
I'll give it to you)
So tell me why
We fall in love like professionals on the first time
Acting all professional but it works out
'Cause you don't wanna work here anyway
And baby I, I, girl I'm all addicted and I won't fight
You and me that's the recipe for a good time
And it ain't really nothing standing in our way"
Branch, you sly freakin' dog.
"Tell me you wanna get close somewhere far away, far away
Don't worry about your loving it won't go to waste, go to waste
Don't ever change your flavor 'cause I love the taste, love the taste
And if you ask me where I wanna go, I say all the way
'Cause she's just like nothing
That I ever seen before,
And baby please don't change nothing
Because your flavor's so original
And it all started when she said
Hey hey hey, smacking that strawberry bubblegum
You really got me when you said
Hey hey hey, popping that strawberry bubblegum
My little strawberry strawberry strawberry bubblegum
My little strawberry strawberry strawberry bubblegum
She's my little strawberry strawberry strawberry bubblegum
My little strawberry strawberry strawberry bubblegum,
Hey, hey, hey, my little, hey, hey, hey"
'Hmm, maybe the reason he doesn't want to sing at parties is because...his songs are different and not quite for our parties?" Poppy thought. Hmm, they could always throw a party fitting for these songs? Would he go then?
"Come in, sit down, let me elevate your appetite.
Any flavor you want. Now my selection is the tasty kind
But you, you're delicious on your own.
After I break you down my fingers, it's so sweet
That's what you told me when I touched on your lips.
Towel under the door, girl, before they pick up your scent ah"
Gosh, these lyrics are so...enticing, you could say. A lot of trolls write songs, but Branch's ones have this certain vibe that Poppy finds pleasant. Strange, since Branch's songs seem to be more mature than most other trolls' ones. Maybe that's why she likes them?
She's too confused.
"If you'll be my strawberry bubblegum,
Then I'll be your blueberry lollipop
If you'll be my strawberry bubblegum,
Then I'll be your blueberry lollipop
Then I'll love you 'til I make it pop.
If you'll be my strawberry bubblegum,"
Poppy giggled. She has to admit, it's REALLY weird to hear Branch talking about romance. It's a good kind of weird, though.
"Then I'll be your blueberry lollipop
(little girl would you be my)
If you'll be my strawberry bubblegum,
Then I'll be your blueberry lollipop
And then I'll love you 'til I make it pop
Hey, hey, hey..."
...
It happened to soon in Poppy's opinion, but the song had ended and all of the creatures including Branch stopped singing. She really wanted to applaud and cheer, but kept quiet. She just prayed the others wouldn't say anything too. Luckily, they all stayed quiet. Poppy saw Glitz stay by Branch's side when all the other creatures left. It squeaked something to him. Branch did a double take. "No! No way!" Branch replied, closing his book and climbing down the mushroom. Glitz followed after him. "The day I sing this to her is...nonexistent. Okay? It's not gonna happen." Glitz rolled their eyes. Squeak. Branch gasped dramatically. "Coward? Me? How dare you!" The bug tackled his side, only lightly nudging him. Branch laughed, giving Glitz's head a pat. "Glitz if she ever found out that I love her….. she would be nice but I know she would reject me. I couldn't handle that." Branch said while Glitz nuzzled him, feeling bad for his friend. They walked off, leaving the area, with Glitz making one last glance at Poppy's hiding place.
Once they were sure he was gone, the Snack Pack unveiled their disguises. Poppy, once again, stared in the direction he went in, oblivious to her friends talking in the background. "What kind of party would he even go to?" Biggie asked. "Oh! Maaaybe, he can sing at weddings!" Cooper suggested. "Or funerals." Smidge said. "Ooh! How about parties on special occasions! Like Hug Day and Christmas?" Suki added. "It's also really sad that he thinks that the girl he clearly is in love with doesn't feel the same." Satin said. "I'm sure if we knew who this girl is we could definitely help." Chenille finished. Creek just sighed at this conversation. Honestly he thinks he already knows who the songs are about.
"What do you think, Poppy?" Cooper asked the princess. They all turned to her, only to see her staring off into the distance. Creek frowned. "Poppy?" Poppy snapped out of her trance and turned towards them in surprise. "Oh! Sorry, what were you guys saying?" Satin and Chenille exchanged knowing looks and giggled. The others looked at the twins, confused. "Sorry, it's just...your face is a little red." Chenille told her, smiling. Poppy slapped her hands onto her cheeks in surprise. She just blushed even more. "I-it is?!" Poppy exclaimed, feeling her cheeks heat up faster. She laughed sheepishly. "Wonder why."
So we are caught up on the original fanfic from this point on I will be creating my own spin. Here's some heads up I will be remaking the troll verse. In this story there are no types of trolls just type of music a troll is a troll. Also even though I haven't seen Trolls 3 yet Branch's brothers will be in here along with this since there are no rock or pop trolls I am making Barb Branch's sister and they share the same father but he's not king. And in this his name will be Ozzie because he is voice by the Prince of Darkness himself in the movie. I think y'all will like my set up but I will be writing into the first movie with characters from the following two. Also one last thing don't hate me. When I first saw Viva I thought she was gonna me Poppy's mom not sister so in this story Viva is the missing queen and Poppy's mother. So here we go and don't worry I'm going to try to stay as true to this fanfic as possible along with fitting it into the first movie. I just wanted to give y'all the heads up if the changes I will be making because this was what went through my head when we saw the first teaser trailer from the Trolls 3 movie.