CHAPTER 1: NOVEMBER 24, 2013

ONE All that glitters is cold, Marilyn Manson, Posthuman In this day and age, owning a live doll was nothing out of the norm; everyone wanted a walking perfection of their own. Even young adolescents had turned to the much desired beings as the subject of their whines and pleas rather than the basic Barbie dolls and latest gaming device. Nave teenagers worked themselves to the bone in hopes of scraping up enough money to purchase the doll they coveted so much, the beautiful creatures made their top priority, beating any of the newest pieces of technology with the fastest upgrades and flashiest features. It wasnt in the first creators plan to have everyone of all ages and interests rave over the dolls. The new form of living beings were created with business men in mind. Littered around the world was the heightening number of these working men, whose cheating wives were too busy with their coworkers and did not fancy being ordered about for even the smallest of things. The places of these women in their ex-husbands hearts were to be replaced by loyal, obedient dolls, who saw nothing but their masters that were the world to them. They werent the lowest of the low in hierarchy and were not looked down upon; most of society accepted them gratefully, some with open arms and some with open legs. If anything, the dolls were right below the humans on the charts with a class of their own. While humans were priceless and not usually for sale, a single live doll could cost a fortune; bringing them to be even more precious in the ignorant eyes of ignorant people. They were so high in value, yet were generally situated as the servants of their masters. It was rare for the dolls to be given off to people without a price, but there were few instances when they were to be donated; a result of their masters no longer loving them. They were typically left off somewhere to make space for whoever took their place, whether it was another human or another doll. There were three types of living dolls and most popular were the standard dolls that were materialized as perfected humans. Long legs, ant waists, six pack abs, oversized breasts; all appearance types that the media not only encouraged in people, but pushed it on them until they were on the ground with palms and knees scraped bloody. The Ball Jointed dolls were either a hit or miss for some. Everyone had different opinions on their small, yet still too-big-for-their-toothpick-neck, heads. It wasnt often youd

see one walk the streets with their masters, the cause of this being that they were either too creepy and over the top for some, or simply out of the budget for those who deemed them the cutest things to walk the Earth on their tiny feet. Then there was the mix between the two, with the natural yet surreal aspects of the standards and nearly superficial beauty of the BJDs; the perfect batch of the flawless. These dolls didnt have a specific name but of the most commonly used label to them was cross dolls. It was even more rare to see them in person at all compared to BJDs, some people only having heard about them and seeing pictures. They were unbelievably expensive, yes, more so than the other two types combined, but they were granted with the best unreal proportions, best face, best body and cutest features. Their eyes were a perfect medium between the other two dolls; bigger than the originals, but smaller than the BJDs frighteningly golf ball orbs, forming what many described as a puppy look that no one could think to resist. Their bodies were a perfect combination of the two types, not too muscular and toned but not too emaciated, simply enough to make them look fragile for their masters. And fragile was what they weremore than the others, noted that total perfection comes with a price. It wasnt hard to mark or break their skin, press a bruise or even make them cry, but perhaps it was their extreme delicate nature that attracted the likes of people in more ways than one. The existence of living dolls rooted solely by sexual intent, their target audience being the business men, or simply the lonely, widowed, retired men as well as even the riches with tens of thousands to spare. And just as planned, it attracted the full attention of successful, lonely men, who wanted a submissive little doll to play with; a little doll to serve them or for them to take care of the new creatures themselves in whatever way they wished, sometimes fulfilling their inner paedophilic fantasies. For some, the relationship between the master and doll remained strictly platonic and they remained simply as companions. Others continued on with their sexual ways. The first man to marry his Little Lolita was ridiculed; labeled as old and senile and in many ways he was but he didnt pay them any heed as he was just another lonesome elderly man whod finally found someone who was just as happy purely by spending time with him. It was after that that others began to proclaim their perpetual love for their dolls, having enjoyed the way the never-aging beauties depended on no one but them and needed no one but them among everything else. It didnt take much time to pass before many purchased their dolls with the expectations of keeping them as their loving spouse in mind. As the numeral intentions of the humans grew, so did the crowd. Mothers would buy them for housework; young adults who didnt bother to hinge into the efforts of wooing their classmates or that cute person working at the coffee shop just down the street resorted to owning one for their selves. Companies owned a few for work purposes, whether it be at a restaurant or shop of some sorts, theyd place the dolls where they can be seen from the public and have their

appearances appreciated by customers; even becoming a few rich little girls best friends as their mommy was too busy with her boyfriend and daddy played with a doll of his own. Although not everyone owned one of the new forms of beings, you either had one or you didnt, the latter wishing from the smallest of their bones to one day obtain one of the very charming things. (Of course there were always the people who held a strong dislike towards them or were uninterested, but these were nearly one in every few thousand.). However, it went without saying that it wasnt just their striking features that attracted attention from men, women and children. Another thing they were known for were their varying personalities and how well they fit their given roles, capable of becoming the perfect wife, husband, worker, friend, lover and even pet; anything their master desired. In contrast to the humans, it was a known fact that dolls had little to no faults (depending on how you looked at them, of course). They played their parts well, acting in whatever way their owner wanted of them until they become that character. But no matter what trait theyre appointed, even if its to be act as a sex crazed puppy, nothing could rob them of the innocence that truly made them beautiful. The heavenly heart of purity that only an angel could possess of living without speaking or even thinking bitterly of someone, something no sour minded human can go without. In the mentality of a doll, they must see and expect the best of everyone and that every impulsive action of those around them have great reason behind it. Everyone is beautiful and everyone is kind, their masters included, although they were the top of everyone else. A doll may be associated with an unintelligent person but their lack of knowledge only amplifies their true beauty. It gives them sight to see the world in a different light; something no human is capable of doing. No matter what their masters looked like, how they treat them, what they did in the past and what theyd do in the future, these dolls would love them regardless. Their absolute loyalty and unconditional love towards their owners; their bright, accepting hearts and docile nature; these were just a few aspects of them that helped to show what horrid swine the shallow humans really were in juxtaposition. It wasnt solely their extraordinary beauty and promised devotion towards their given master that was their purpose of existence, far from it. All in all, they were to be the upgraded version of humans, the flaws typically seen out in beings of true blood and fleshgone. The older once-popular but lifeless dolls such as Barbie and Ken were based on the image of refined girls and boys, and refined was what the live dolls were. Everyone held their own preferences; therefore not everyone would consider every living doll to be perfect, as perfection has no limit. It went without saying, however, that the pretty little things were borderline faultless, for the creators worked hard to tackle the tiniest of things, ridding them of any human flaws. Flaws as minuscule as the invisible whiskers on the upper lips; even insignificant things such as disallowing their (softer than human) skin from wrinkling and

shriveling up like prunes from twenty minutes of water. The dolls hair was strands softer and their pupils vigilantly wide, peaked with interest and curiosity while real girls dangerously poked cheap circle lenses into their dull, desperate eyes. The dolls created for submission were thin and tiny as well as incredibly flexible; the ones created for dominance were rather tall and muscular and were capable of lifting tonnes. Other than deciding if one looked too exceptional to be human, a way to identify a doll from a human would be to check behind the neck, where printed like a permanent tattoo would be the creators name or company label. Purchased dolls would have both, this marking and the name of their master branded onto the inner area of their left wrist. If there was one thing the dollmakers had in mind when looking at their creations, it would be that he or she was the epitome of what perfection had in store for generalization; everything humans strived to be. But not everyone treated them with care. Some, it was fairly uncommon but still a fraction of, doll owners took advantage of their inclusive ownership over the beings that were not only nave, but vulnerable in nature and chose to include them into their sadistic fantasies. In some cases, the master would not bother to have their doll even learn what a safe word was. It was far from necessary when they could easily teach their toys to either enjoy or loathe it, the dolls opened their pretty eyes every day to please no matter how harsh the treatment. Their sadists of a master would not have to hold back like they would for humansdespite the dolls fragility, they could be left beaten and battered and no fingers would be raised. It was frowned upon but not illegal, as the live toy was completely the owners property. There were few real opposed laws, but they were just as austere nonetheless: all dolls must be under supervision and cannot go without a master, and all places of business must allow their workers to bring their living possession with them. If anyone detested the idea of essentially having a bring your pet to work day all year round, no one voiced their protests seeing as that the dolls were always in their best behaviour under their masters. If a doll is seen wandering the streets alone, they will be taken under the cops custody and the owner or creator must fetch them. Unsurprisingly, there was no official law concerning the treatment from master to doll. The restrictions of actions depended on the creators, although the bigger the name of the producing corporation, the less concern they held to what would happen to their live products. They still held basic rules of course but they werent so strict about it; as long as they sold well, the big boy brands had nothing to thwart their slumber. It was the independent dollmakers in particular that were known to hold the appearance of the typical crazy scientist with large caffeinated eyes supported by dark bags below, prickly stubs of a beard and unruly jumbles of hair whilst maintaining a lab coat whiter than white, whether they were completely on their own or even in a small group of twenty. Man or woman,

they were deemed as the type who youd stand outside of their lab and hear a clear bazinga! in an overly enthused voice. Despite their faade that resulted from spending far too much time on the living toys, they would easily have dolls that theyve created at their feet, as well as women who wished to get a taste of their impeccable wealth. Zhang Yixing was one of the few independent dollmakers who proved the stereotypes wrong and could have men and women as his feet either way with his physical charms just as well with his natural elegance. In spite of his well kept demeanour, the works of his mind was not unlike the usual doll creators who worked on their own. While the big companies cared more for sales and becoming the top producer on top of anything else, Yixing saw the dolls as not his occupation, but his life. It was the twenty six year old man and other autonomous dollmakers alike that treated their products humanely with care, recognizing their docile creations as a result of hard work, pure dedication and the gems they made them to be rather than the potentially high stacks of money they were worth. Oh Sehun could only grunt in obscured envy every time a chirp Yixing came by the office to obtain packages of meagre articles of underclothing for his dollsunderclothing that the former always bestowed the dollmaker without a cost. How his high school friend worked day and night in the confinements of his home-turned-business-place and still love it was beyond him. Even after years of the older man studying and then creating the bewitching dolls, Yixing had never explained the works but Sehun reckoned that it was no simpler than filling out paperwork and attending meetings for long hours of the day. Sehun had grown up not quite sure what he wanted to do in life. It was hard to decide between working hard to become a celebrity of sorts to impress people or lazily snatch a noexperience-required job in a grey office, answering phones in a monotonous nine-to-five life. Such opportunities as grand as the last never crossed his mind a second time; he knew better than to fret when his futures always been secured and decided; served to him on a golden platter and spelt out in 20-carat diamonds. It lay somewhere in between the first two options; important, respected and well known for his alluring looks and success, yet the typical coffee drinking, suit wearing, paper writing kind of man. As the son of the CEO of Dit Oui, a designer brand specializing in lingerie for women and dolls along with a smaller selection of clothing and a growing collection of adult toys, it was his duty to be next in line for his fathers position rather than the people who were actually qualified. Everyone in the company and the Oh family foresaw the title as the head chairman being passed down to the only son eventually, but not when Sehun was at the ripe age of twentytwo after the aging man was bedridden with lung cancer, having finished off one too many packs of cigarettes every couple days. Sehun had plans of spending a couple years prior to taking over when he was thirty or so to learn the ropes. This idea, however, was blotted and he was to pursue the family business in

his youth despite having little to no experience. The young boys knowledge of lingerie and fabrics set on a scale of one to ten would without a doubt be a negative numeral. He held no interest for women or dolls and was ignorant on the conducts of both living forms. He lacked patience and hated repeating himself; his brain refused to let him understand how a number of strings with a couple triangular fabrics, a thong, was considered underwear (that rode high up the ass with a pledged wedgie, mind you) and sold with ease, starting at a hundred bills that people would squander just for its name and label. Regardless of these minor ordeals, three years had flown by in a frown inducing, brow knitting breeze and Sehun succeeded in not making the company lose its reputable standing. If anything, the opinions and ideas spurring from the new, refreshing perspective of a young man (with fetishes) only grasped the interest of new crowds. At the current age of twenty-five, Sehun lived alone with success as the only consistent companion and a family half an hour away that looked to him with pride-filled eyes. But the glitter of such accomplishments faded long ago, along with the arrogant light that once loomed over him at such high heights. If life had a colour, grey would be the mans. Sehuns daily life lacked vivacity and had gone far too long without excitement to be considered the bright shade of white. But then again, it wasnt like hed landed himself into a steep hole with no way out, surrounded by blackness and constant wishes for an escape with a strong hatred for the world while wallowing in self-loathing of his own, although maybe it was even the deficiency of darkness that added to his frustrations. For the longest time, it felt like he was in the process of falling through a bottomless precipice; living a grey, numbingly mundane life that he wasnt sure if he wanted to continue or ditchthat is, if he even had an option. Every morning, Sehun would wake up to his beeping alarm at a painful six in the morning, eat a five minute breakfast consisting of sugar covered os drenched in milk multigrain to say he eats healthythen drive off to work to be greeted by the receptionist and cleaning people, sit on his ass and fill out paperwork, give shit to employees who didnt know how to do what was asked of them, speak with old potential business partners that Hyewon, his assistant, sent in, fill out more paperwork and head home by eight at night, where hell eat a nice, warm, frozen TV dinner or canned food (something fast but not completely unhealthy). This was the usual routine that he lived with every day; rinse, lather for hours, and repeat, and he couldnt see it any other way. Maybe it was somewhere along these lines where Yixing and Sehun were the same in one sense. Working early in the morning and stopping late in the night, their businesses were their lives. But thats probably where all similarities end as Yixing loves his job to its very core, popping out of bed every day, energetic to complete and begin new creationspossibly still in his pyjamas or even in the nude the whole day, the lucky piece of shit. Sehun slouches out of bed with dread, knowing that alongside writing, typing and answering phones, hed have to go another day, spending precious time directing confused workers only to have the idiots mix up even more orders and such.

Perhaps Sehun would be able to come to a conclusion as to why his empty life was so painfully numb but there was no time to think of such things when paper work stacked atop itself. Instead, he had to push aside the thoughts of the dust that wouldve been collecting in his condominium if not for the cleaning lady and focus on sales. He thought more about meeting deadlines than actually getting his eight hours of sleep. Sehun ponders over which fabric would suit the dolls piece best rather than if he should purchase a doll of his own to wear his products. He disregards the idea of going out to have fun, for he had meetings to attend. Thoughts of his inexistent love life would have to be pushed to the backburner until his slowly dying and possibly decaying father comes back to take his place once again. Tonight however, would quite possibly be the closest thing hes had and will have in a while, to a night out. It was nearing five past seven in the evening as Sehun turned off his laptop and computers and ensured everything was neatly in place for tomorrow. Yixing had come by once again a few days ago, welcoming himself to the leather L-shaped couch in front of the desk by the large window. Skipping over pleasantries as always, the slim man suggested that they have dinner at some Chinese restaurant he frequents. At first, Sehun had declined without a blink, stating that he had many things to take care of when Yixing reasoned that that was what all the other workers in the building were there for. After more coaxing, the younger man finally gave in, agreeing to meet up for a late dinner at seven thirty. Sehun slipped on his coat, knowing that if he stood around any longer with the pile of papers right before him, he would end up calling Yixing to cancel their plans and Sehun wasnt one to disappoint. Breathing tiredly, he rolled his shoulders to emit that satisfying crack and finally left the confinements of his office, ignoring the familiar ache in his legs and ass from sitting himself stiff all day. The blonde man neared the young woman whose desk was situated just outside his door with a less stern face. Hyewon, Sehun called out from behind her as he locked up his door and the girl spun in her chair to face him animatedly with a sweet smile. Ill be leaving the office early tonight, Ill see you tomorrow. Hyewon crossed her legs, subconsciously(?) drawing her skirt up ever so slightly and her boss tried not to stare at her thighs. Alright, Ill see you tomorrow too. By the way, I just fixed the shipment order that Eunyoung messed up, like you wanted. It took a while but now it should be heading for Toronto, Canada she stated in the slightly deep voice of hers as she combed a section of her dark red hair with her perfectly manicured fingers. When Sehun hummed in approval, she grinned with cold warmth before stabbing the heel of her right stiletto into the grey, carpeted floor to spin back around. Hyewon was not only one of the few office workers known to be a bombshell, but she was also one of the few workers that Sehun knew of that actually did their job correctly and someone he could depend on for the not-so-simpler tasks. The twenty five year old male left

finally, but not without casting a few glances back at his striking assistant, who was diligently typing away at her computer.

The lights of Xin Jing Hua were dimmed ever so slightly, bringing the white walls to a golden tint. Chandeliers hung high from the ceiling, along with red decorative lanterns and a soft yet jarring breath of a fiddle could be heard from all over the restaurant, playing what seemed to be some traditional Chinese song. Littered nicely along the walls were scroll-like posters of Feng Shui and room dividers used merely for decoration. When a tiny woman with a Cantonese accent informed Sehun to follow her, he politely complied instead of giving in to rubbing the stomach of the rather large golden Buddha statue that seemed to smile at him by the door. Walking along the red carpeted floor with his back straight and chin held high like his father always taught him, Sehun ignored the interested gazes of other customers and focused on the hostess leading him. He was sure that her thigh was the size of his wrist. After leading him to a table where Yixing and deep-cerise haired man sat, the former greeted his Korean friend as the woman soundlessly slipped away after handing them three menus. Hello, Sehun, Yixing welcomed as the younger took a seat across from him, earning a curt nod in response. Ulong tea? he offered, raising a white, porcelain teapot and showcasing that dimpled smile of his. Sehun gave a lopsided grin when Yixing didnt wait for an answer and already started to fill his small, ceramic cylinder of a cup with the steaming liquid that looked close to urinejust with bits of leaves. Sure, he responded. Taking a sip of the scalding fluid, he tried not to burn himself as the drop of hot flowery essences ran down his throat soothingly. Yixing seemed to watch his every move rather innocently and Sehun in turn, stared the brunet down from behind his cup with a raised brow. Perhaps their staring contest was dragged out too long because the man beside his best friend slung a possessive arm around Yixings shoulders, pulling him closely. The sudden movement caught Sehuns attention, leading him to draw his eyes up to meet the pair of the man, who had yet to introduce himself. He took notice of the calloused glare directed to him, looking royally pissed like he was a threat of some sorts.

Its okay, Joonie. Hes just a friend, Yixing whispered soothingly to the slightly angered man, but Sehun heard it. He also noticed the hand reaching down to rest on what he hoped was the unknown mans thigh, and a smirk took its place on Sehuns lips as the third party visibly regained composure and the interloper couldnt help but glance over at the arm that held his high school friend. Tattooed on the inner wrist of the man was the name Zhang Yixing, in cursive. Some dedicated male Yixing captured, Sehun mused. So youre the boyfriend? the young CEO tilted his head smugly. He was about to throw in a snarky comment to go with it when Yixing interjected. You could say that, was his sugar cubed answer before he sipped his tea. Actually, Joonmyun is the sixth doll I ever created and was the first real success. Hes my personal doll. Go on Joonie, introduce yourself, he encouraged, either ignoring or not noticing the way Sehuns eyes widened in surprise for a split second before recovering. For a moment, he wondered why hed never seen this doll before. H Hello, Joonmyun started in an angelic voice accompanied with a hint of natural huskiness and uncertainty could be detected within it. He gave a short bow of apology and Sehun gave one of courtesy. Now that Yixing had mentioned it, Sehun only now realized the perfection that was written all over him in bolded blackfrom his completely unblemished, milk skin to his soft looking, crimson coloured hair (similar to Hyewons) and continuing down to his long, slim fingers with perfect cuticles. My name is Joonmyun, and it is nice to meet you, he held out a hesitant palm and offered a friendly smile that was almost too genuine. The pleasure is mine, Sehun nodded and reached out to shake the hand, albeit a little dazed that the artificial man changed moods so quickly, solely from the assurance of his smaller master. Sehun had to ignore his undying fascination and release himself from the gesture before he makes a fool out of himself. It was far from his first time coming in physical contact with a live doll but the unbelievable softness and realistic texture of their skin never failed to amaze him every time. It wasnt long before a server came to take their orders, which they spared no expense on as nothing offered in the restaurants menu seemed to be inexpensive. It wasnt much longer when their plates came, steam floating above as the two humans were deep in discussion. You know, this is most probably the first time weve truly met up since you took over your fathers business. Three years is a long time, Yixing mused aloud with Joonmyuns left arm around his slim waist. In all honesty, I dont think I will ever understand how you manage to work yourself to the bone, knowing you have the option to take a sick break every single day of the week. Nor will I understand why you do it, he shook his head like the younger male was crazy.

I do have the option but skipping out on work without an appropriate reason will only hurt the company. Now I understand why my father told me to take his place immediately when he became hospitalized, Sehun chuckled tiredly. If neither of us are present, surely something will go wrong and everything will only go downhill from there. If I could, I would fire anyone who doesnt know how to do their job but then it will just be me trapped in a building of over fifty floors, he sighed exasperatedly, running a hand through his blonde tresses and stabbing his chopsticks into a chunk of tofu. Yixing laughed whole heartedly, seeming to have been fed a gallon of unneeded life from his deadbeat friends misery. And that is why I work from home and on my own, for the most part at least. Sehun lit up slightly, interest piqued. Speaking of which, Xing, in all these years, youve never entirely enlightened me about your dolls and the works of your career. The other males eyebrows rose up into his hairline, mildly surprised. I make dolls, Yixing deadpanned like it was simpler than sketching an imperfect circle, whats more to say? Sehun shrugged. I dont know. Anything? The only thing I know is that theyre not human, he laughed and inwardly cursed himself right after for his inelegance. His lack of understanding on certain matters never failed to reduce him to an illiterate fool. Oh, the elder drew out the single syllable. So youre basically like one of those elderly people when they get all confused and surprised from seeing a cell phone, Yixing nodded understandingly and a small scowl bloomed over Sehuns features. I just never had the time to read about them or listen to people on the streets rave over how much they adore their doll, Sehun defended bitingly and was about to continue when the dollmaker raised a hand. No worries. I believe you, Yixing chuckled, fingering his chocolate side fringe in a sly manner. I never bothered telling you about such things as I was aware that if youre anything like you were back in the daywhich I know you still are; dont bother denying itI would bore you to sleep. However, I will accommodate. With everyone but you knowing everything, its been so rare that Ive been able to explain my work among other things from the core, he grinned and Sehun rolled his eyes. So where shall I start? Like youre a completely different person, Sehun clacked his tongue. And anywhere, I guess. Perhaps start with something recent and then continue from there? Alright, well Yixing trailed off in thought, staring at his rice for a few seconds and gnawing at his lip. Ah, whatever, he shrugged, waving a hand nonchalantly and digging his chopsticks into his food with his other.

Sehun watched with cold, judging eyes, insides sneering with what the fuckery at the bizarre man child in front of him while the doll seemed to look at his master with a small, tender smile. What? he demanded testily. Nothing, Yixing dismissed the question, raising his head to meet gazes. Was just thinking of how to explain things without leaving any matters out but, he cleared his throat, I reckon well be kicked out of here by the time I gather my words properly. For now, you will just have to settle for my horrid excuse of explaining skills. If I leave anything out, then its just your loss. Sehun made a tch noise, rolling his eyes once more but with little amusement. Go on. Well, the Chinese man trailed off again, in thought like the last time and his companion couldnt suppress a small groan as Yixing chewed silently. Luckily, unlike earlier, he actually continued. Youve probably heard, but dolls are fragile. Not like those little icicle swords we always licked or tried stabbing each other with when we were kids; those ones that would form together on the outer edges of your house or the bumper of your mothers car? However, they cant endure as much as most people can, their skin is just that bit more feeble and sensitive than humans and they tend to take at least twice as long as we do to heal. I cant say the same for other dollmakers, but there have been a few encounters with abusive masters; people who take advantage of the dolls submissive state and their power. So what do you do about them? Sehun was curious. And not just because anything at this point sounded to be more promising than signing contracts and confirming business deals but because after hearing small snippets of such information over the years, it was new hearing the whole story from a different angle. Well, it was a few years ago when it happened a couple of times, which was more than enough for me. So what I did was have chips built into them that wirelessly connect to my computers no matter how far the distance is. Because the microchips are extremely new creations and are still in the midst of full development, its not always completely accurate on their current states. After learnt mistakes that couldve been avoided, now I usually check up on the sold dolls in their new homes every once in a blue moon, just to make sure theyre doing fine. In fact, even Joonmyun is connected, therefore he cant secretly be unhappy with me, Yixing laughed, grinning when his doll looked at him with a small scrunch of his straight nose and still looking attractive; an action that Sehun couldnt twig the meaning behind but didnt dwell on it. Perhaps it was one of those things that could only be understood between the two people in the relationship, or in this case, master and doll. The chips arent cheap but they were definitely well worth it. Imported from Germany, in fact, Yixing nearly sung the last part with his index finger raised, as if he was preaching a lesson. Sehun acknowledged his words with a soft nod. So this means theyre robots?

Yixing stifled a short laugh and the younger felt a bit ridiculous. Not androids, per se. Dolls are basically another form of the living, they fit most of the criteria, though they wont age. But you created them, how does that make them a living being? Sehun inquired, curious as a child. And how did you put those mechanical chips into the dolls? Dont they have their own type of flesh or something? One at a time, Mr. CEO, Yixing tsked playfully, the permanent smile on his face widened into a grin. And to answer your questions or perhaps not, even I dont find going into bloody detail as we eat dinner to be attractive, he sipped his tea. But yes, they do have their own flesh, akin to humans. And because the microchip and a couple other miniscule devices of technology are deep in there, theyre technically close to being androids, Yixing spoke the name with disgust evading his features. As much as I despise that idea, its what they are. Although there is very minimal metal andin comparison to everything else thats supposed to appear as organic human tissuebarely significant. There are many other things that differentiate them from androids, like having their own emotions and slowly adapting to new environments. Do they eat? Sehun wondered, noticing how Joonmyun mainly picked at his own overpriced food, only eating enough to fill a child. They require little feeding but the larger the size, the more they can take. Any more than that, theyll either face stomach pains or get a little sick and throw it back up. Theyll occasionally need the bathroom and can last up to two weeks without food. It wouldve been much easier to create them without the option of feeding, but many are fond of the idea of taking care of them in nearly every way possible. Because of that, the custom-made dolls requirements, such as feeding, mainly depend on the master. In the end, the amount they take and the time frame in between usually depends on how they were put together to be. Sehun nodded, still watching Yixings handsome companion boredly attempt to stab a pointy chopstick through a single grain of rice unsuccessfully. Joonmyun mustve sensed his stare, Sehun thought, when the doll met his gaze and cracked a small, embarrassed grin with a chuckle. The human smiled back. Can they reproduce? Sehun asked, averting his attention back to Yixing, who either ignored or didnt notice the little exchange. No, Yixing answered with a firm shake of his head. Spending even more years to figure out specific permutations to create functioning fluids and female eggs would be ridiculously futile, especially as most dollmakers and companies want to be in absolute control of production. However, if they wanted the dolls to create themselves, theres no telling if the babies will come out as easy on the eyes as the parentsor even with the correct number of limbs and eyes for that matter. Even if they do come out like theyre supposed to, I highly doubt

that anyones interested in having a living doll they suspect will only stay as a baby. If they do grow up, then it defeats a small fraction of the purpose of dolls, as theyre made to never age. More so, it sounds like a lengthy adventure and life of tweaking conundrums; something Ive had enough of in my years. Most dollmakers, such as myself, prefer to focus on just creating them and not running a baby mill of sorts. Well, aside from looking a little tired, it doesnt look like youd need to have them create themselves. You seem rather well kept for someone who works the second you finish brushing your teeth, Sehun pointed out enviously and Yixing bared his row of whites again for emphasis. If Joonmyun and the others werent as well behaved and obedient as they are right now, Id most probably be dead, he laughed, casting a glance towards his favourite creation with hearts in his eyes and the synthetic man gazed back with adoration. They shared a short but intimate kiss and Sehun didnt even notice how shamelessly he watched. You said you worked alone, so the others as in? Oh, the other dolls of course! With the exception of some that were created for a specific purpose or are trained, their knowledge goes as far as their masters allow. Id say Im an exceptional master, Yixing said the last part proudly, chin raised higher than before. Before Joonmyun started to help out, it would take a little over three months of working day and night with minimal sleep to make such perfect beauties. It was almost half a year of simply observing until I realized I could teach him a load of things, which he learned voluntarily. Now it only takes about four and a half weeks to complete one, six weeks at most, Yixing smiled at his success. Wow, Sehun exhaled, not knowing what to say. While his he sluggishly led his own business into the silver, it only really occurred to him now that his best friend was doing the exact same but with gold hearts dedication. What do you do when they need to sleep? Even though my dollhouse is rather spacious, I like to keep at least two dolls rooming with each other so their bedrooms are big but cozy and they wont get lonely. They can sleep whatever time theyd like but they have a bedtime curfew at one in the morning; the time I usually sleep at as well, he chuckled. Then during the day, theyre free to wander the house and do as they please unless I say otherwise, which is usually just when we have a visitor or client, Yixing ended. I usually take Joonmyun with me wherever I go but on small trips, like when I arrive at your office for the free things, I let him stay at home to keep an eye on the others. Thinking back to his early drives to work with the car radio playing, it had been one too many mornings where Sehun would have to listen about someone finding a lifeless, mutilated, bloody doll on the side of the road. Or of some of the many doll creators who would coldly store over twenty of them in a tight-fitted, dark cell they called a room, only seeing the artificial lights

when they were called out to be a potential purchase. Hearing what Yixing had to say about their sleeping arrangements, it all sounded too... human for these things that were dolls, it was odd. But then again, Sehun didnt know what he would consider to be the normal treatment from master to doll. Sehun let out a scoff-like breath, minus the haughtiness and replaced with acknowledgement. You know, Ive already heard about dollmakers and doll masters mistreating them one way or another. Although its really no surprise, I guess its good to know that youre different, the blonde threw in a mindless chuckle. Yes, those really are some tragedies, Yixing paused thoughtfully, letting a two second silence wash over them to better stress his point. Its not totally uncommon for such things to happenbut I can only hope that the other independent makers are no different from myself. However, it wouldnt be such a huge blow to hear about the crazy ones doing such repulsive deeds, he huffed the last part with repulsion, giving a faint shake of the head in disappointment. Gone was the witty exterior and in was Yixings unreadable expression that only Sehun (and possibly Joonmyun) could decipher. And youre not crazy? Creating and taking care of artificial humans, under the roof of your own home you call your dollhouse? Sehun rose a brow from behind his tea. Yixing simply laughed. I can really only speak for myself but when you spend so much time forming together a being, its nearly impossible to imagine hurting them in such a way. You know what you made them look like inside and out. Youve seen them before they could barely move; at their complete worst and how they first responded when coming to life. I imagine that its like a mother looking at her own child, Yixing chortled like a parakeet. And like a protective hen over her babies, I always look into a patrons background and work ethic and past and all that jazz to ensure that this person will take care of my doll. Because treatment from man to doll is barely limited, what it will always come down to is whether or not the Little Lolita is happy. Simply handing the doll over to someone who refuses to answer a single question is not an option to me, Yixing paused, eyes moving from Sehuns face to concentrate on the white clothed table. Silence found its form in fiddle playing at their current setting and the Korean man wondered when Yixing was to resume his self-chatters. Everything sounds like a long process; youve always been the patient one, Sehun pointed out, bringing Yixing out of his reverie. Of course, the elder acknowledge, although with something obviously boggling the other half of his mind. Like Miss Jeon said everyday Patience is a virtue, Sehun finished for him and they both laughed shortly.

I dont know where that sweet old woman went wrong with you, but time is no jewel to me. Its spent one way or another, Yixing said with an amused glint and before Sehun could retort back, anyways, I have a proposition Ive been considering for only a few seconds now, but this is something I know I most likely wont regret. Sehun raised a skeptical brow. Yes? Yixing laced his fingers with Joonmyuns. Would you like a doll? he left the question to hang in the air, adding an I have a feeling youd take great care of him or her, when the blonde had yet to respond. Sehun blinked at the question. Needless to say, it was unexpected but the answer remained simple: no. Not only would it inconvenience him and his jam-packed schedule life, but contrary to what Yixing said, there was no way hed be capable of taking care of a whole other supposed-to-be-being when he barely took care of himself. From what he understood of his capped knowledge on dolls (that had grown by some tonight), they were close to the typical house pets. Sehun would probably have to play with it, feed it, wash it, bring it out for walks and take it to the bathroom. The last two were rather debatable but it was possible. He could teach the thing to get by on its own but that was out of the question as he had no time for that either. Unless it was one of the older dolls Yixing had already created, but even so, simply talking to it and telling it what to do could take up precious time. No, thanks, Sehun declined as clean as peeling a Band-Aid. I cant waste money on those things, he lied to put it simply when in fact, he had millions of the companys money (which was technically his) to spare. Use to his friends attitude, Yixing didnt seem to pay any heed to his sharp choice of words, opting to gasp dramatically and clutch his heart with his free hand. You didnt expect me to actually charge you thousands for a doll, did you? What type of low rat do you take me for? he feigned hurt and Sehun rolled his eyes at his friends. The one I accidentally ran over days ago, he scornfully joked, playful. Yixing made a small tch sound in response, before smiling with sincere warmth. Anyways, whatever doll you choose or the one you wish to have custom made to fit your taste will be completely free of charge; not a single penny. Think of it as a thank you for all the free lingerie and clothing and toys youre granted me over the years from Dit Oui. This doesnt mean that Im trying to make us completely even and that it will be the end of whatever our businesses have together. Ill still be coming by every so often for the freebies. Yixing grinned. Ever since he started doll making six years ago, he had been getting free clothing articles from the name brand company, not only saving him bunches of cash, but giving him a reason to heighten the prices of his quality made dolls, dressed head to toe in one of the most expensive, top-of-theindustry brand label.

Yes, well, three years out of the six, it was my father giving it to you, Sehun reasoned. And now its your company that has lost a certain number of bills on me, Yixings smooth laughter rang through. Come on, he said, just let me do this. Pay for my dinner tonight and were even, Sehun suggested sharply with a chuckle. You want a fifty dollar meal in exchange for the thousands worth of clothing? Yixing gave a familiar rose of the brow and Sehun knew then and there that the man would not back down. If I were you, Id be feeling pretty damn lonely. Well, if anything, I have you. And possibly Hyewon. Ah, Hyewon has her ups and downs, Yixing pushed the topic over her away with a small wave of the hand. Dolls only have their ups. They dont age or bitch or even get tired of you. Suddenly he leaned in and with a closed whisper, When was the last time you had sex? Has your virginity come crawling back to your body? Yixings invasive words had Sehun fish-mouthing in silence. Not from the rudeness or absurdity of such questions but because it had him thinking. When was the last time? In spite of what those who knew of him thought, he did not go around in nightclubs at the end of the week, taking part in a game of one night stands because quite frankly, potentially catching an STI of sorts was not all too enticing for him. And Sehun was no prude but the thought of touching a complete stranger whom played around every night simply disgusted him. You could drone on about your boring day for hours on end and they dont even need to pretend being fascinated, Yixing said when Sehun hadnt responded. After dinner, Ill let you have a look at those who I have available. I guarantee that by the end of the night, you will not be regretful.

As soon as the bill was paid for, Yixing drove Joonmyun and himself back to their home, with Sehun trailing behind them in his silver Mercedes Benz E-Class. With a years worth of insistence on Yixings part, the younger agreed to visiting just to humour his friend. You said you work from home, where exactly? Sehun asked upon entering the huge house that was rather close to being a mansion.

My work area is in the cellar, I can show you if you want, Yixing suggested, leading Sehun to it with their shoes squeaking against the marble floors. Joonmyun obediently stayed behind without even being told once. Where the dollmaker brought him to was nearly covered in white, akin to that of an actual scientists laboratory and Sehuns eyes wouldve widened at thishad the bright light not threatened to burn his irises. Whenever Im working, Yixing started, Joonmyun and a couple other dolls that are older and more advanced would be down here with me to help. Its necessary to wear those doctor vector masks, white lab coats and plastic gloves to avoid contamination at all times. However, I reckon that well only be down here for no longer than two minutes and I trust that the child in you wont touch anything, he said and Sehun nodded absentmindedly. The young man did not know what he was expecting, maybe a crummy little room to fit only one person with little tools here and there but Yixings cellar was anything but that. The large room was split into a couple with glass separating them and instead of the typical cement flooring were pure white tiles without a single streak, footprint or a hint of dirt. Sehun almost felt dirty just standing there. In the centre and against most of the walls were metal operating tables, and occupying a portion of the space on some would be a computer with an oversized desktop. Small, labeled, metal boxes with a lock in its place sat in various corners, untouched yet most likely without a speck of dust. Everything here is all in its place. If other humans besides myself worked here, itd be a complete and utter messwould take me hours to find something I need. However, the dolls helping me out down here dont think twice about returning whatever theyve used back into its rightful place. Thats why, as I said earlier, only the older, trusted and more advanced dolls that have yet to be claimed may work with me, Yixing explained, using his sleeve to wipe imaginary dirt off the nearest table. I have more equipment on the third floor. There are a couple of dolls that are injured on various levels, whether it be a minor wound as a result of them just being clumsy or something else that lead to more severe damage, so theyre are currently resting in the rooms I have reserved for dolls in the healing. If I left them down here in such an environment, theyd feel like nothing less of mere lab rats, so I set up a couple of recovery rooms decorated just like any other, Yixing ended, turning back towards the stairs to leave already. It was odd to think that they could feel certain ways, but Sehun didnt comment on it, remembering that animals can probably feel emotions as well. This is rather impressive, Sehun said without blinking as his eyes travelled across the room. He looked to his friend, who had paused on the steps at his words, Why is it that youve waited five years to show me all this?

I needed five years to ensure that you matured, Yixing snorted with a grin and Sehun rolled his eyes. Lets go, the brunet of the two gestured. Once they made it back upstairs, Yixing confidently strode his way to a small set-up built into the wall by the front doorsomething Sehun hadnt noticed before. The former pressed a slender finger against a metallic button, before speaking into the pewter coloured speaker. Yixing spoke loud and clearly, but all Sehun heard were brief mentions of core of the house have a visitor as light giggles of a young boy distracted him. While Joonmyun appeared by the dollmakers side once again, the tiny boy (that Sehun assumed to be another doll) seemed enthralled by the CEO. He seemed to be avoiding the blondes gaze, literally. Every time Sehun tried to get a good look of the little thing, the childish doll would run right behind him, hiding from the mans eyes, only to selfishly peek from the side. All Sehun got from his attempts at catching sight of the small boy was that he had sleek black hair that covered the tips of his ears and mustve been about five feet tall or so, before giving up completely. He ignored the small, barely-felt, poke at his side. Yoo Seungwoo! a shout erupted from Yixing, who pulled the squirrel-ish boy closer to himself, whispering scolds that Sehun heard without trying. Just because Mr. Oh is a close friend of mine does not mean you can misbehave today. Understood? Seungwoo nodded, although he didnt seem to be remotely scared like Yixing had most likely aimed for. However, the boss of the house wasnt the only disappointed one. Call Sehun a bitter old man, but something within him almost wished to see the light in the little buggers tiny eyes darken a little, at least for a second. One by one, the room was filled with a number of dolls of all sorts and appearances, standing side by side and taking their own spots in line, as if this was practiced on a regular basis. Seungwoo took small, eager steps toward the alignment, taking his own spot and stroking his own plump, milky cheeks with both small hands. While some were dressed cutely in polka dots and bowsSeungwoo being an example with his dotted button up and baby blue shortssome were clad in slightly revealing clothing that hugged their figure. It wasnt just their clothing that helped differentiated their type from one another, Sehun noted. Their physical features were unique in their own ways as well. Some dolls had a narrower nose, whereas some held a more button like one. Some had large eyes and others had a smaller pair. Take your pick, Yixing spoke up from beside him. Joonmyun stood rightfully beside his master and not in the line, and Sehun concluded that the beings in front of him were the ones for sale. These dolls are all virgins and have never had an official master yet. Theres a rather large variety to choose from, he said and pointed at a girl. She seemed to be a female version of Seungwoo, more or less, if her cheeks and ribbon tied pigtails were of any indication.

This is KL, shes the more shy and cute type, physically and personality wise. Although, like any other doll, she can adapt to your preferences and act and be whatever youd like her to, Yixing said. KL is a standard female doll with the usual delicate, V shaped jaw line and slim nose. Sehun examined her, taking in her pink, ruffled dress, tiny waist and slightly large bust, and under his gaze, she seemed to fidget slightly. He didnt spare her a second glance. Youve somewhat met this one already, Seung Woo, Yixing brought his attention to the squirrelish boy once again. I generally prefer not to create the Ball Jointed Dolls for a multitude of personal reasons. However, I do create the dolls that are a cross between the two primary types, and Seung Woo is one of them. The most prominent attributes a cross doll will carry are slightly puffier cheeks, a tiny and delicate physique with a small height, and a small button nose and small mouth. They are usually a bit more playful in nature, as opposed to the other types, but that can easily be altered with proper discipline. And their eyes are typically quite large, but Seung Woo is an exception, Yixing explained, pointing at the boys slitty eyes. As he spoke, the doll was swaying on the balls of his feet. Do the different types have varying prices? Sehun asked, having heard about how much more valuable the mixed types will be. Yeah, what a delicate little flower Seung Woo was. The standard dolls average for about fifteen grand; the Ball Jointed Dolls will be around twenty. If the client requests for either of them to be custom made, the additional fee can range from five to ten or even higher, depending on what theyre asking for. The mixed type can be sold at any price high above seventy grand, with at least an additional thirtty when custom made. Now this one, Yixing gestured and approached another doll a few dolls away from Seung Woo, this time a male. This is Kai, another standard doll, but hes the more seductive type. Quite a little horndog, actually, but still untouched. Sehun glancing towards Kais face was meant to be nothing less of a onceover, but once their eyes met, they were locked. A small grin, tanned skin, strong cheekbones and chocolate, feline eyes drew him in. The young CEO had to tear his eyes away, opting to take in his physiquewhich by all means was no less desirable and nearly had his lungs constricting for air. Almost the same height as himself, Kai was slim and clearly toned beneath his skin tight leather pants and fitted white button up. A couple of those buttons were left undone, purposefully revealing more olive skin stretched over screaming collarbones that Sehun would just love to taste. Everyone else in the room seemed to only fit under one category and stylized under one theme, but Kai seemed close to being a walking paradox. His eyes were to be described as those of a little puppy at the same time of an expectant leopard. Kais plush lips were virginal, but ready to suck cock. A shapely ass that was cute,

however, made for the unspeakable. He was masculine yet pretty; sexy but cute; mysterious although charming. Kai was in a word, drool-worthy and Sehun was going to have him. Yixing must have noticed the way his friend gawked at one of his creations because he suddenly decided to dismiss all the other dolls, save for the one, instructing them to hang around in the next room for the time being. This action went unnoticed, along with all the yes, master Yixings, as Sehun was too distracted, drinking in the sight of Kais delicious, mile-long legs. Like any other of my dolls, his hair is as soft as rabbit fur, Yixing stated instinctively, motioning towards the crown of Kais head for Sehun to feel and Kai lowered his head in a slight bow. Taking advantage of what he can of the situation, Sehun gently fingered the beings chocolate coloured fringe, relishing in the softness so unreal. Like youve probably felt before when touching a doll anywhere, the texture of their skin is exactly like ours but softer, Yixing continued, going into what Sehun suspected to be his practiced and routinely business speech that was used on every potential client. The Chinese man used Kai as the physical example as he explained what finest materials created the tanned male in front of them. Although Sehun could care less about what Kai was made up of unless it was cadaver, of course, his only reason being that Kai was just the epitome of sexy and there was no way anyone else of such simple but rare qualities existed. Forgetting to have the words process through his head, Sehun patiently waited for the blabbermouth that was Yixing to finish his explaining of details before revealing his thoughts. You know, I primarily came here just to shut you up, but I didnt expect to actually want one so desperately, Sehun said, finally tearing his eyes off the quiet masterpiece. I know, and Im not surprised, Yixing answered with blatant smugness in his tone, which the younger chose to ignore. Anyways, I dont know how people usually go about creating deals over dolls, but itd certainly be pleasing if there was any possible way for me to leave with Kai tonight, Sehun proposed, masking the hope in his voice. Out of the corner of his eye, he could see one corner of dolls sinful lips get tugged up into a small half-smile-half-smirk. Oh, Sehun could imagine it now. Leaving work and coming to place that he could call home with actual meaning, all because of one person. Kai would be the first doll to wear any of the newest editions of Dit Oui lingerie, sampling it behind closed doors in front of Sehun for no reason necessary, as well as testing out the toys on the beauty. There would no longer be a reason to eat out all the time, as he would finally be able to have a home cooked meal in his condominium after having Kai learn to cook like a perfect little housewife. Most importantly of course, no more relying on the internet

paired with his right hand when he has the most beautiful being to ever exist wherever and however he wanted. Sorry, but I cant allow that, Yixing chuckled suddenly, interceding Sehuns thoughts. Theres actually a certain type of preparation the doll must go through first, physically and mentally. Its crucial to ensure that Kai has no faults in any way possible. Plus, well probably need a bit of time to pack up his things. Alright, Sehun sighed in shallow disappointment. When will he be available? Dont get too cranky, young un, Yixing advised with amusement like an uncle in his golden years to a nephew. It will take up to a week, usually a little earlier. But Ill definitely call you when hes ready. And while you wait, Sehun, you should probably think this over. This preparation period has its benefits on both ends of the stick. No matter how long a potential customer has been wanting a doll, I still find it necessary to give them time to think it through and to be certain that owning one is something theyre committed to and didnt just drop by the dollhouse simply because they were feeling horny, Yixing paused, before squinting his eyes at his friend. Are you? Sehun scoffed. I had to eat dinner while looking at you; its going to be a few days until I feel remotely so. Lies. And didnt you say earlier that you trust Ill take care of it? Was just asking, was Yixings defensive response. And just so were clear on this, its a him, not it. Anyways, follow me into my office. Ill need you to give me your current address so Ill know where to bring you your precious Kai. I think you gave it to me a while back but I lost it, he threw in the last part casually. Sehun was still disappointed, and so was Kai if the slight jutting of his bottom lip stood for anything, but he recited his address nonetheless. He was then brought into what he assumed to be Yixings office with Kai following extremely close behind. Yixing made a beeline for one of the desk drawers and pulled out a package of papers. On it, he quickly jotted down Sehuns address somewhere before looking back up at his friend. Anyways, Yixing said, approaching Sehun with the papers and pen to hand them over. If youre sure you want Kai, youll have to sign this contract. Five pages? Sehun clarified incredulously, flipping through the sheets before scoffing. This is way too long, Yixing. Just give me the gist. The man went back to the front of the package where the blanks were meant to be filled out. By signing this, youre basically agreeing to take care of the doll I give to you and that if for whatever reason necessary, I have the full right to take the doll back, with or without returning your money.

Obviously the last part, Sehun muttered, not caring if the other male and two dolls heard him. Still standing, he used Yixings mahogany desk as a flat surface and immediately wrote Kais name beside Doll of purchase. Whats Kais price? he asked, ready to write the amount himself on the blank line. Nothing. Like I said earlier tonight, Im letting you have one of them free of charge, Yixing crossed his arms and leaned back against the bookshelf behind him. Well, since the wait is mandatory on your terms, its only right that I dont owe you anything. When all the papers were signed, they were finally saying their goodbyes for the night. Sehun departed with Yixing and Joonmyun saying their farewells and Kai waving his hand with a slight wiggle of his fingers. It was nearing eleven thirty when Sehun came back to his condominium, opening his door to the expected dark and silence. A moment after he flicks on the light switch, he lowers the temperature immensely, already feeling the cold creep up behind him. Sehun lies in bed that night, head still spinning at thoughts of Kais full lips.

CHAPTER 2: JANUARY 24, 2014; EDITED JAN. 30, 2014

TWO Were so full of hope and so full of shit.Marilyn Manson, Rock is Dead

This day marked the fifth since Sehuns dinner with Yixing and, like always, he was heading home late into the evening. Although the older male said it would take up to a week, Sehuns patience was already stomping on thin ice. Only God knew how many people under Dit Oui would have now been unemployed as a result of that, had Yixing not called earlier to inform him that hed be waiting right outside his door with his precious Live Doll. Sehun greets the doorman and in turn is presented with yet another pleasantry of respect that just sends his spine straighter and pulls his chin higher. Oh, how unimaginably wonderful a

life he would live with his beautiful Kai, he thinks as he takes the elevator up. It would be just the two of them in their small but large enough home. Unlike what many in the high end of the business industry thought, a rambling four story mansion with ten separate bedrooms for one was not a home, or at least not to Sehun. Even his condo felt somewhat barren, as he had mainly been going back just for sleeping and the usual hygienic rituals, but Kais presence would most likely change that for the better. Home would be less empty in every context possible; it would feel lived in. Over the little leisure time Sehun had to wait, he had taken the liberty of purchasing a couple small things to welcome Kai to his new home. One of the items was a black granite nightstand to take the unoccupied space to the right of his queen sized bed for Kai, much alike his own on the left side, both furniture pieces sucking up to the white, black and dark brown dcor concept. Other things, Sehun hadnt exactly bought but had the right to take at work. Taken publicly but without question were articles of clothing that the young CEO assumed to be Kais size, meagre pieces and threads of lingerie as well as certain toys. However, one thing Sehun most anticipated gifting to him was the Harry Winston bracelet cuff. With multiple diamond stones and Sehuns name specially engraved onto the luxuriant silver, the piece of jewelry cost more than anything he remembers paying for in his lifetime. It was definitely an eye-catcher and Sehun could barely wait to put it over his dolls slender wrist; to have the classic silver shine brilliantly against the richly tanned skin. Long legs taking extra-long strides, the mans eagerness brought him closer and closer to his door within seconds but began to slow once the sight became clearer. Something undoubtedly was not right and had chosen to stick a stone in his throat. By his door, a few healthy metres ahead of him stood Yixing and Joonmyun with a few boxes by their feet, as promised. But where was Kai? Approaching towards the dollmaker and his lover, Sehun glanced around but could not find his tanned leopard anywhere. Could it be they decided to delay the arrival? Hello, Sehun greeted the pair without watching his step, bringing him to accidentally step on something hard and a small whimper was heard from the marble flooring almost simultaneously. Looking down with worry that he had stepped on someone, Sehun sighed in relief when it was only a small, now broken, Rubiks Cube. But once his eyes met the floor, only now did he notice the small boy, who huddled himself into a small ball between Yixing and Joonmyuns legs with his back towards Sehun. Tiny fingers grasped onto the material of Yixings black skinny trousers, tugging weakly and the dollmaker threaded his fingers through the tiny boys golden tufts of hair, shushing the shivering lump comfortingly like he was a baby

and Sehun watched with interest as the scene unraveled itself. It seemed to work because the little thing had stopped shaking. Hello, Sehun, Yixing smiled softly at his friend with faint eye bags, still bent over slightly to keep his hand on the blonde childs head, like a worn out mother. Would you guys like to come in? Sehun offered, trying not to eye the elephant in the room that took its form of a skinny, little, tantrum-throwing boy. Without waiting for an answer, he unlocked his door and pushed it open, looking at the two other adults (if Joonmyun counted) to enter. No thank you, the taller doll declined politely. This will take but a few minutes. Yixing nodded in agreement. There are matters that must be discussedLu Han, here, can maybe wait inside. A couple more whimpers and Yixing leant down even further to listen to the boys whispers. Its fine, Lu. Hes not scary or mean. Hes just naturally a grumpy old man that needs a good boy like you to make him happy, Yixing whispered back in response rather loudly and not even Joonmyun could tell if it was intentional or not. This fact aside, Yixings last few words had things turning in Sehuns mind. Whats this? Sehun asked, rather snappily, head nodding towards the kid. It had barely been a couple of minutes but Sehun deemed it to be more than enough time for him to know what the turn of events were even and whether Kai was coming or not. The little guywhat was it? Lu Hak? Lu Jin? Lu Nam?was somehow aware the grumpy old man was not-so-kindly speaking of him, in spite of still not facing Sehun, because only now did this Lu Nam turn to cast his big, watery eyes at What the fuck, Sehun blurted, recoiling like he had just touched sulfuric acid and his bones were already disintegrating when really he had no contact with that Lu Nam boy at all. Instantly, big, fat crystal tears began to roll down the scary things cheeks that were marred with bruising and excessive stitching and in came the wailing. Luckily he was pretty quiet about it. Sehun! Yixing hissed angrily, pulling it to its feet to make it stand on wobbly, starved legslike a newborn baby birdand held it closely to his chest, effectively lulling the blonde. Shame on you, control yourself, he scolded Sehun and from the corner of his eye, said man could see Joonmyun eye him judgingly, despite his silence through the whole ordeal. Something about having a doll silently criticize him was enough to immerse Sehun in fifteen seconds of shame. Whoever dressed this Lu Jin (for a reason unknown, something about the child gave him the impression that he needed another person to dress him) had him in the typical male Lolita getup, like that little that whats-his-face black mushroom haired doll at Yixings house. Lu Jin was bundled up in a white dotted long-sleeve button up with a printed bowtie at the collar.

Layered on top was a dark blue vest and on his lower area were baby blue church boy shorts, cuffed hem above his knees. Underneath some clunky looking black platform shoes were white socks, pulled up to his knees and only exposing minimal area of his hairless legs that looked to be in no better condition than his faceexcept there were a couple little blue Hello Kitty BandAids plastered onto his knees. Sehun, this is Lu Han. Oh. Yixing had spoken softly in a laughable parental voice and Sehun wasnt sure if it the words were entirely for his benefit. Yixing slowly turned the pitiful Lu Han back around so that he would face Sehun, finally, though the younger kept his eyes down casted. Hes going to be your doll What? Sehun blurted again, buckets full of confusion with a hint of disgust overtaking his features. Theres no way hes mine. Yixing, you must be joking. I am aware of your sick humour, but this is not even remotely funny. Im not joking. Lu Han is one of my most prized creations so feel thankful I am giving him to you. Now listen closely, Yixing continues on, paying no heed to the still perplexed expression on Sehuns face. Exactly what was happening? You may contact me for the details or anything youve forgotten anytime you wish, as long as you do not mess any of this up. There are certain things that Lu Han is used to living by and certain things that must be given to him. If you neglect him in some way of these things, there will be hell to pay. Lu Han is more fragile than most other dolls, in and out; from black and back. As his master, it will be your job to ensure that his happiness is solid and that he gets exactly what he needs. With such animated features, almost resembling Bambi when he cried after his mother was shot, Lu Han was a doll that looked like he was meant for children but was covered in steep stitching and bruises. Physically, he wasnt far off from Chucky and that thought in itself was unsettling. Well, I dont want Lu Han so youll have to find someone else that is actually willing to take in a doll like him, Sehun said ever so bluntly once again and Yixing shot him another meaningful look, before turning to the doll. He crouched down a bit so they were almost eye level. Lu Han, why dont you go on in and have a seat over there on that white couch by the TV, Yixing instructed with a gentle voice, gesturing into Sehuns condo. Lu Han stood there for a few more seconds, shifting from left to right and sniffling a little as Joonmyun wiped away a stray tear. Its okay, go on, Yixing tenderly nudged the shrimp little thing past the door frame and he obliged, shuffling towards the said couch. Ill go to make sure hes fine, Joonmyun said, welcoming himself in as well.

The Chinese man closed the door over, leaving a two-inch gap. Just as Sehun, with crossed arms, opened his mouth to speak, Yixing raised a hand to silence him. Sehun, I know that youre probably thinking that you dont want him right now, and I understand completely. But just keep an open mind or at least let me speak for now. Maybe after you learn a bit about him or spend some time with him, I can guarantee that down the road, youll learn to adore Lu Han. And how can you be so sure? Sehun questioned, leaning against the wall. He gripped the loop of the tie around his neck and loosened it a bit. Because everything I say is true, like the other night when you thought you didnt want a doll, but then you saw Kai. Who, by the by, is where this evening? Sehun inquired, expression darkening. Ill get to him later. For now, just listen and try to remember the things that Lu Han will be needing from you, Yixing spoke firmly and his friend nodded. Lu Han can eat anything at any time; just make sure to feed him at least one meal a day. He likes sweets but dont indulge him too much or hell get a stomach ache. Remind him every night and morning to brush his teeth; he doesnt get morning breath but his teeth will have to be replaced at some point if you neglect them. He may not seem like it now because hes nervous, but if you want him to warm up to you, he loves human contact and being babied in whatever way possible. In one of these boxes, youll find his toothbrush and other things, including one of those Korean, onesie-animalpyjamas, Yixing cracked a smile. Like the ones we used to wear but his is a grey penguin. He especially wears it when its cold so you should leave it out for him in case the temperature drops during the night. Sehun was listening diligently and nodded when appropriate. But I dont remember seeing him when I came over, Sehun thought aloud. A doll like Lu Han is not something someone would just easily forget. Ah, thats because I had only called for the dolls that were ready for sale. Luhan was in one of the treatment rooms because he was even more injured then than he is now. It was him and several others that were not in the lineup, but its my fault for not realizing until later on that night that I kind of had to get Lu Han off my hands for certain reasons. Joonmyun and I will come by every so often just to check out how things are maintaining themselves. Well, I cant take Lu Han even if I wanted to. The contract you had me sign was tied to Kais name, Sehun reasoned, still adamantly trying. The initial purpose for the creation of Living Dolls was for the human or master to have someone help around. Sehun didnt have his heart set on having Kai bustle around, doing work for him but he did want someone who was capable of lasting a few hours at the very least by themselves. The more Yixing spoke, the more Lu Han appeared as a baby leech with devoted dependence.

I had a feeling you were going to say that, so Yixing drifted off, reaching into the messenger bag hanging from his shoulder, pulling out a slightly crumpled packet of papers that looked to be the ones Sehun had signed. Yixing slapped it flat against the younger mans chest, whose hands flew up to catch it, instantly catching sight of the signatures and scoffed in disbelief. Where Kais name was originally written, patched on was a dried miniature puddle of white-out lathered over it. On top of the layers, read in Yixings bold hand writing, LU HAN. What Sehun muttered under his breath, eyes skimming through the contract. Are you serious, Xing? Skip right over to the last page, third point. If you had read it properly, right there, it says that I have the right to alter the contract if necessary. Jaw dropped, brows furrowed and all, Sehun slowly looked up from the papers and to Yixings currently stoic face. Was this even legal? What was really happening? Perhaps he had accidentally fallen asleep behind the desk and Hyewon was right out his door, about to come in and offer him his black coffee. Subtly, he dug his nails into his thigh for reassurance. He was reassured. Does this make sense to you? Sehun questioned with dire incredulity. You cant do this. Oh, its done, Yixing smirked in a way that the younger suspected was only to taunt him, how typical. This is how you plan to repay me for the clothing? With manipulation so Im given the better of two evils? Sehun, all jokes aside, you cant say that just yet, Yixing stated, now with elusive pleading in his eyes. You dont know how much of a precious angel Lu Han is. Truthfully, I really was considering bringing Kai to you but I had gotten Lu Han back a few weeks ago barely even so. As I may have told you before, dolls are fragile beings. The chip I install in them is connected to our computers so we know of their well-being. My most proud work is definitely Joonmyun, but second, missing by just the strand of his hair is Lu Han, Yixing admitted unabashedly. In true comparison to any other doll Ive seen or could put together, Lu Han was and is his own level of beautiful. Yixing smiled to himself at this, possibly reminiscing about the dolls past appearance because there was no way he was talking about how it was now. However, Yixing continued, his previous master did have great taste and Lu Han was proof of that. The man had to wait nearly a year for Lus full completion. Every single detail of him, from his height to even the exact measurement and placement of his teeth, was chosen and instructed specifically by the master. He wanted perfection to be perfectI had thought he was a bit of a stickler at first, but he paid amazing money so I accepted the deal. But when Lu Han

opened those big, brown eyes for the first time, I understood why he chose everything he did. Lu Han was always so soft on the eyes and so sweet on the inside like cotton candy; I almost didnt want to give him upI even prolonged his departure. But in the end, a deals a deal so I couldnt keep the angel for myself, he smiled bitterly. For a moment, Sehun wondered why Yixing felt the need to tell him all this. The dollmaker could go on and on about how ideal and golden Lu Han once was but it wouldnt do anything to change the present doll. That man ended up keeping Lu Han for over three years. The more time that past, the more it showed up on our system that Lu Hans moods werent exactly terrific nor was he treated with great care. The computers were working perfectly fine but I had presumed there to have been a glitch in the system. Whenever Joonmyun and I would visit Lu Han and his previous owner, he seemed completely fine, albeit much quieter. But its not exactly out of the ordinary for a doll to start acting differently with a new master to fit the new rules and standards like theyre supposed to. Because I didnt think much of it, we gradually let go of Lu Hans situation and began dropping by only once every several months until I stopped altogether, like I usually do with other clients when Im more than sure about them. Just three weeks ago, however, it had been the one year mark since the last time I checked up on Lu Han so I decided to go by with Joonmyun just one last time. And what we saw was, Yixing paused, swallowing saliva that may as well have been a stone, it was inhumane. I wont go into detail, but there was strong evidence of abuse. Such degradation and neglecting is abusive on its own, but the sadistic bastard made a whole new level of cruelty with his severe beatings and things that cant even be mentioned, Yixing exhaled through his nose and Sehun remained as silent as a clam, knowing that whatever he would have to say may result in a pissy Chinese man due to his ignorance of understanding in this situation. Obviously you noticed the injuries, Yixing began again, resting his left hand behind his own head with his usual hazed eyes. Lu Han is still healing. He wasstill isa pretty little thing, just a little broken, he explained sadly and again, Sehun once again said nothing, just nodded. I really cannot stress enough how fragile they can be. Healing time for them takes longer than humans, in some cases they dont even heal to the full extent. In the few weeks that Ive been tending to Lu, his injuries have healed a little and reduced in size. His previous master was not only abusing Lu Han but also the power he knew he had over him. Its people like that who I try to avoid making deals with. That man never even really let him speak, just mewl and such, now he barely utters a word unless you beg him to or if hes under complete distress. Sehun nodded with fabricated understanding. When he speaks, is it at least the same as he did in the past?

Well, when you stop practicing something for so long, its only natural that you lose some of the ability, Yixing answered with a puff of a breath and a sad smile. Sehun glanced in through the small gap that the door currently allowed, peeping at Lu Han and from that distance, the stitching and cracks were mere dull lines and the bruising were just faint, pretty pastel colours, much alike a little girl playing with mommys makeup and mistaking the eye shadow for blush. But for a moment, the doll no longer looked like something that would be shown at a top class circus of the most obscenely talented and most grotesque. What he saw was a slightly prettier than average young boy sitting with his black and blue little twig legs glued together and back completely straight like an inelegant, pristine mannequin with his head lowered like a shameful mutt without a home. It was really sad a sight but Sehun dared to say, That doll is yours for the keeping. Sehun, Yixing groaned lightly. This is a part of the contract. It is what it is; youre taking him. If not permanently, at least temporarily. His microchip is still connected to the system and its gotten pretty accurate for the most part so Ill know when to drop by if it seems you continue to make him feel worse after a short while. Most dolls that are getting a new master tend to handle the situation fairly well, but in this state, I reckon Lu Han wont. Everyone at home is already expecting his data to show that hes not exactly ecstatic about the change. Fine, fine, Sehun exhaled. But how would I go about treating him? I dont want to trigger something in him and suddenly hes whipping everything to the walls and at me. Yixing grinned at the clear progress made. Well, violence is far from Lu Hans nature. But because of everything hes been through with just one real master in his life, he does need special attention. So the way he acts may be a bit peculiar. If he ends up asking you for something odd, just use your own judgement on whether or not to go through with it. Given that hes now supposed to be your doll, its best if he adjusts to your preferences. Because hes already had a real master, his interests and dislikes are a bit more precise and complex than other dolls like Kai. Huh, Sehun sounded, indifferent. These were things a part of him had already suspected so it was no surprise there. Speaking of which, why exactly are you giving me Lu Han and not Kai? he questioned. I liked Kai and Kai obviously felt the same way. To tell you the truth, until he has a master, Kai has the hots for everyone, Yixing responded and Sehun quietly pursed his lips, feeling slight betrayal, not that hed admit it. Lu Han is as healed as the machines can make him. For now, he needs to be tended to constantly and I dont exactly have the time for that. Like I said, he needs special attention that I cant give

him. But I trust that even if you dont exactly yearn deeply for him right now, youll take care of him without letting your occasional temper get in the way. Sehun rolled his eyes at the last part. Perhaps his stressful years in the company had formed an easily prompted annoyance within him, to put it lightly. However, his moods were not something he fancied dilly dallying over. But Xing, am I really the best option for him, then? I have work too; I wont exactly have the time either. Oh, yes you do! Yixing grinned, tired eyes turning into crescents. Have you not noticed all the Dolls in your building? You can always take him with you to work; Lu is very well behaved and wont touch anything you dont want him to. Hes even very quiet and barely makes a peepwhether or not you get him to be the hyper little chatterbox he once was, its really your decision, the man spoke energetically, obviously keen on persuading Sehun further. Because Lu Han needs special attention to make him happy, you can do your paperwork with him sitting on your lap instead of leaving him to sit all lonely in the corner of your office like I know you would. He wont get in the way or even make your legs numb because hes very tiny and light in size. Lu was created to have the body of a much smaller than average male and the mindset of an innocent youth, so in human respects, hes not exactly fully matured, or at least not mentally. The man Lu Han was created for, he wanted him to be short and skinny looking, like a boy just on the brink of becoming a real man, Yixing went on, slightly off-topic again and Sehun grimaced, a touch bit disgusted that a full grown man would want someone who looked so young. But then again, one of the many purposes of Dolls was to fulfill any fantasy, including slightly pedophilic ones. Yixing must have noticed because he was quick to say, But remember that dolls are not human, so it all depends on how you look at Lu Han. One person may consider him as a young teenage boy, and another can regard him as some fun-sized chap attending university. Apart from the injuries, he looks different from other dolls, the younger man chided, picturing few characteristics he remembered that were not a result of violence. The petite size, little pointed chin and large jewel eyes that sent all those Japanese characters a run for their money were the only other things Sehun had cared to notice. Most Living Dolls looked like attractive people but Lu Han looked like he was made to be something completely different. Ah, Im glad you at least have an eye for that, Yixing smiled, for some reason a grateful smile. Lu Han is a part Ball Jointed and part Standard Doll. Hes far more rare and worth way more than the two combined. Not to mention, Lu Han was custom-made from head to toe, so hes even more expensive than the usual Cross Dolls. Dolls are generally quite expensive but this boy is worth houses and youre getting him for free, Yixing rubbed in with a wink. Not like I couldnt have afforded such a price, Sehun muttered but was ignored.

You know, the talkative dollmaker started once again. He was a childish Little Lolita type, like Yoo Seungwoo, but a little more excited. The corners of Yixings lips tugged up softly and Sehun held back a groan. He was always the hyperactive one in the house, always questioning everything with his never ending whys. Then comes the time you ask him something and he would just answers with because, Yixing chuckled. During the time I had him, he would scamper around in his oversized pyjamas and on his little feet, bouncing off the walls. Lu Han would run away when he needed to take a bath, then refuse to come out when hes finally in that soapy water. Now, his expression darkened ever so slightly. It was a subtle change, but it was there. Now hes always so timid and quiet and careful with everything he does, it just breaks my heart that hes been mistreated so badly to where his entire outlook on life has changed. Words cannot explain how I felt when I gave that man a treasure of a boy, only to get Lu Han back looking completely decimated. Sehun nodded again, this time in genuine understanding. Sure, the doll sounded like he was a brat three years ago, but the contrast from what hes heard to what he sees is saddening, even to him. Glancing back into the apartment, the bit of stitching he could see on the back of Lu Hans left hand caught his eye. Cant you just replace whatever part is damaged? he asked, curious. We could, but it will take time and may be very painful to whoevers getting fixed. Because their bodies heal on their own, its better to let them heal in a non-high maintenance way. Yixing dug into his messenger bag, pulling out what looked like a quarter-used tube of toothpaste. This is an ointment lotion for dolls. It speeds up the healing process a little and creates a lesser chance of scarring. Tell me when this runs out, he gave it over to the younger. So I just give this to Lu Han to put on? Sehun asked, turning the tube over in his hands a couple of times, trying to decipher the Chinese characters printed over it. No, youll have to do it, Yixing gave a puff of an almost laugh at his friends confused face. Every night, before he goes to sleep, just gently rub in tiny amounts for each wound, including the bruises. Are there any specific areas? Sehun shifted where he was standing, accidentally stepping on the broken Rubiks Cube again. One little plastic piece caved into itself under Sehuns weight. Theres too many to point out, Yixing shook his head. The other dolls and I, whoever would be applying it to him that night, would just have him undressed completely or just to his underwear and apply it like that. This way, its quicker and easier to get to certain areas, like his rear opening, which only needs this ointment for another week or so, as that spot is made to heal a little quicker. And by the end of his instructions, Sehun nearly had his eyes fall out.

I have to strip down this boy and rub liniment on his asshole? the young CEO clarified, not wanting to accept this reality. Well, its not like Im making you put some insideits only on the outer area, Yixing argued, almost defensively, but it did nothing to lessen Sehuns discomfort. I can tolerate putting it everywhere else, but I am not touching anywhere too intimate on him. Hell have to do it himself. Sehun leaned back against the wall with crossed arms, lightly kicking at Lu Hans broken toy. But Lu Han cant do it by himself; hell probably end up doing something wrong, Yixing reasoned. Anyways, Im putting my trust in you, Oh Sehun, he put a hand on the younger, taller mans shoulder. Please take care of Lu Han. Okay? Okay. Its pretty late so you guys will probably go right to sleep. His toiletries and night things are in one of these boxes, Yixing explained, nudging one lightly with his foot. Pushing the door to Sehuns condo completely, he called into it a, Lu Han, Ill be leaving now. Instantly, the little guy came rushing out after being called, stitched cheeks already wet with fresh tears, with Joonmyun following behind him. The button up shirt of Yixings personal doll had a few small patches that were, no doubt, from the much smaller doll. Lu Han plastered himself to Yixings side, pressing his face into his creators chest. Master Yixing, the doll breathed with a tiny, barely audible, voice through sobs that rocked through his ant sized body. The rest of his delicately voiced words just sounded like a garbled mess to Sehun; he couldnt tell if his best friend genuinely understood or not when he said, Everything will be fine. Yixing made soothing shushing noises, holding Lu Han in his own lanky arms, stroking his hair. This grumpy Korean man is your new master now. Hes going to take care of you from now on. Ill come to visit often, I promise, Yixing said in his childish voice as Lu Han shakily reached out for Joonmyun to join in tightly so the smallest was sandwiched right between them, wholesomely disregarding what Yixing was saying. Although Sehun remained silent, resisting the urge to object to the words spoken, the dollmaker looked up at him, as if he knew what Sehun was thinking. Just wait a week. A week is all it takes, Sehun, and you wont even want to let this boy out of your sight. And as Lu Han stands on tippy toes in a weak attempt to hide his face into Yixings neck, Joonmyun reaches into his masters, or boyfriends, bag. He pulls out a raggedy old looking stuffed rabbit and gently presses it against Lu Hans bony shoulder. Mr. Thumper will be here with you, Lu, Joonmyun says in his naturally soothing voice and the smaller Doll immediately holds it to his own chest. As this happens, Sehun finds nothing

better to do than to start bringing the boxes in. They werent huge and there werent many so hed still have plenty of his own space, thank the heavens. After sorrowful goodbyes that Sehun was glad to have been ignored for, all the boxes are in, Yixing and Joonmyun went home and Lu Han is still crying in the middle of the corridor, tightly clutching the old rabbit toy whose body sagged and hung from the boys frail arms pathetically. Stiffly, Sehun patted his back, forcing out a strained, Its okay, that only seemed to turn Lu Hans sniffles into tiny sobs. Sehun glanced around the lobby as if the walls could help him or even close in on him so he can disappear. Placing a hand that covered the Little Lolitas entire shoulder, Sehun leads him back into his condo and towards the same white couch, more awkward than he ever was in high school. Perfectly positioned on the soft seating cushions, the man picks up the tissue box from the side and extends it to the front of Lu Han, who doesnt react in the slightest. Minutes fly by and nothing changes, apart from Sehun opting to place the small box by the baby shrimps lap on the couch because his arm was getting sore and it was connected to his writing hand that he needed for work. Lu Hans stifled sobs and hiccups save them from being draped with silence, but when was crying better than quiet? The young CEO was deep in his own thoughts, trying to come up with what to say; what to do when he glanced at the dolls lap again (he still couldnt bring himself to look at his face) and widened his eyes with concern wrapping around him and swallowing him whole. Lu Hans shorts must have somehow risen up when he sat down because now, the blue church boy shorts rested above mid-thigh. It revealed hairless legs that almost blended in with the cream white couch, if not for the excessive green and blue bruising, little blue Hello Kitty band aids and obvious stitching that just looked wincingly painful. Because the shorts were bundled so high up, there was nothing on Lu Hans legs to soak up the salty liquid that dripped down his chin like a rainstorm and onto his legs, leaving the puddle of tears to keep rolling down, down, down his little beaten thighs until they hit the pure suede material. Sehun bit his bottom lip, a tug-of-war conflict within himself on how to approach the dilemma of the crying doll that just may or may not be ruining his four thousand dollar Aidan Gray suede loveseat. Oh, he can already see the permanent marks these tears would leave. You can wipe your face if you want, with the tissues, Sehuns voice croaked slightly and he wasnt surprised when he received no response. He was, however, slightly bothered when the little doll still made no move to take a white square fibre sheet. Turning back to face the black flat screen of the TV, Sehun thought deeply and traced back to Yixing. From the things the dollmaker had told him, it seemed like Lu Han was the more

incompetent type that needed to be taken care ofliterally. If the doll didnt know how to apply ointment to himself, was it possible that he didnt know how to wipe his own tears and blow his own nose? Lu Han apparently enjoyed being babied. Yixing had also told Sehun to feed him, did that mean he had to spoon feed the doll like first grade girls would with their plastic babies? Yixing may have mentioned that Lu Han adores human contactperhaps if Sehun acted gently enough and did not frighten the boy, this could all work in his favour and Lu Han would stop crying and they can both get some eye-shut. Pulling a couple of tissues from the box, Sehun finally looked up to meet the face of the distorted mess of a boy that just keeps crying. Sehun puts strong effort to look into the large, teary fawn eyes and not the stitching; not the cuts on his skin that had been sewn closed by a longer needle and thread, piercing the skin, pulling the string through and repeat. The corner of Sehuns mouth twitched a little at the squeamish sight and he tries to stay on task. Balling up the tissues in his hand, he very gently pats it against the dolls face to soak up the tears, starting at his little chin with a small cut and going up from there. Despite his best efforts, Lu Han erupts into even more tears and Sehun has to yank at multiple tissues at a time to keep up with the tears and save the delicate surface of his couch. Heylittle guy, Im sorry, I didnt mean to scare you like that. Sobs, hiccups, and more sobs. Have you eaten yet? Do you need to drink something? What do you want? Sehun asked urgently, even standing up in case the boy chose to answer, wanting nothing more than to turn off the cries for peace and quiet and salvage what he can of his expensive loveseat. Sehuns sudden movements and slightly louder work voice that mightve sounded too stern seemed to scare Lu Han further, causing him to flinch and squeeze his eyes shut together. Hey, Sehun said in a softer voice now, sitting back down and leaning closer to the Doll, thinking that if he made a show of ignoring his appearance, it just might cooperate. If theres anything you need, just tell me. Youre here so I can take care of you, if you want something, just name it and Ill get it to you. Again, Lu Han chose not to answer, although he seemed to be calming down just that bit more with every word spoken softly. Perhaps his lack of response was for the best because Sehun wouldnt have heard a word the doll was saying when he was this close to the tarnished face. All he could focus on was how closely Lu Han resembled a mix of that Sally ragdoll girl from The Nightmare Before Christmas and Chucky. An appearance meant to be cute and pretty but really, it was just fucking scary. Sehun thinks back to his conversation with Yixing about how high Lu Hans supposed value was and how lucky he is for obtaining a custom made Cross Doll without paying a single

penny. It reminded him oddly of how the best quality of things would be sold at such high prices, but then would be tagged with a discount sticker, the price reduction big or small. When a single imperfection arises, the seller would do anything just to get rid of it. Yixing granted Sehun with Lu Han because he clearly wanted what was best for the little doll. Had the dollmaker been anyone else, they would have just given Lu Han right over to Sehun free of charge or thrown him out in the dumps with the stray cats and broken glass because he was much like a broke toy; a nutcracker beaten and battered, by irresponsibly careless children who just wanted to play. Now the jaw to fell apart and they leave it on the ground forgotten and without purpose.

*****

Time just flies by past when youre distracted by a weeping doll with endless streams of tears and now its one in the morning and Sehun has work tomorrow and, not to mention, a very important meeting with a very important potential business partner. Straightaway, Sehun is tired and no longer sympathetic for this thing, nor does he have any patience left inside him but its still sobbing away. Its too late for Sehun to be awake when hes supposed to leave from bed in just a few more hours. The doll coughs through its tears and Sehun groans loudly with annoyance. Oh my god, will you shut the fuck up, Sehun sighs, rubbing his temples and he can feel the doll look at him with big red teary eyes, frightened. It makes the mistake of allowing a whimper to slip and his new master groans again. Quit your crying, Sehun stands up from the couch and gets as far as he could from the small boy. His head was pounding with a migraine and it took everything inside him to resist the urge to slap the living out of the handmade body. Shut your mouth, unless you wish to sleep outside with the other shit animals, Sehun muttered the empty threat, nearly sweating with anger as he leaves the room for the bathroom after getting extra clothes, where he slams the door shut and splashes cold water on his face in attempt to calm down and soothe his temper. He was really holding back on his yelling. Sehun brushes his teeth and hygienically prepares for bed. At this moment with the running water, he cant even hear Lu Han sobbing his glass eyes out and he can feel himself relax already. As he cleanses his face with his facial scrubs, he knows that he shouldnt be letting his temper from lack of sleep get the best of him. Yixing had told him repeatedly that dolls, Lu Han especially, were fragile and therefore needed to be handled with patience and tenderness. As much of a little shit that brat was being, Sehun knew he himself was at fault. It was like kicking an already beaten puppy; Lu Han clearly didnt need another aggressive person to come into his life. Maybe when he finished up in the bathroom, he could apologize and try to make it up to the little guy. Trying to calm down the boy by playing with him and his old rabbit toy could work.

Sehun had basically prolonged the dolls crying, therefore he should be the one to fix it. Even if it ends up taking another hour until Lu Han calms down, then so be it. Sehun stepped out of the bathroom, out of his suit and in a pair of shorts and a normal Tshirt, feeling refreshed and ready to console the doll. His eyes landed right on the Aidan Gray couchwhich was now empty, save for the box of tissues and blotches of ruined suede where Lu Han had been sitting. Lu Han? Sehun called out, gazing around the living room as well as the dining room it was connected to. Lu Han, he called out again, heading towards his room to find it empty. He got down to the floor and scanned under the bed and in his closet but had no luck. Apprehensive, Sehun searched the kitchen and guest bathroom, even checking under every table and in every cupboard, but his attempts were futile. The dolls black, clunky platform shoes were still by the front door where Sehun left them (while the shrimp was crying, he peeled the uncomfortable looking shoes off the boy and placed them by the door), so he doubted that Lu Han left. Now Sehun was really panicking. Lu Han? Are you here? he called out in the middle of the condo. He was a tiny doll; a nimble looking thing; he must have been hiding somewhere. Hey, little guy. Im sorry I yelled at you; let me make it up to you. Want me to make you something to eat? I can get you something sweet, and when we watch some TV? We can go around the town and see it as it is in the night, if thats something youd enjoy. No answer. Sehun was beginning to feel a bit ridiculous now, as if he was talking to himself. Lu Han? A loud honking car sounded into his home and the (usually closed but now) opened window caught his attention. Dont tell me Sehun muttered, heart racing as he approached the glass opening. He was praying hard that Lu Han hadnt noticed the balcony or the fire escape but the top of a head of a blonde haired person speed walking along the sidewalk had Sehun cursing. Fuck. It hadnt even been three hours and he already lost Lu Han in Seoul. Was Lu Han going to come back and kill him in his sleep? No, Yixing said that violence was far from his nature. Lu Han would let him live and allow Yixing to kill him. But then what would happen to Lu Han out there? The doll forgot he even owned shoes and that there was a fully functioning door on the other side of the room; shrimp boy had no chance of survival out there. Without another thought, Sehun slipped his coat and shoes back on, not bothering to change out of his shorts. Quickly, he strode over to the kitchen table to reach for his keys when he felt something under his shoe on the final step. A loud shriek resounded through the condo and something promptly scratched Sehuns bare leg, drawing a pained moan from the man and he stumbled back.

In front of him sat a very tearful Luhan with his rabbit toy, cradling his small foot, under the kitchen table Sehun had checked earlier. Sehun felt something cool on his leg and looked down to see blood running. What the fuck, Sehun took Lu Han by his small waist and not so gently but not so roughly pulled him out from under the table to plop him back on the couch. He felt his foot tickle a little and let out an animalistic growl when he saw that some of the blood from his leg had already trickled down onto the seventeen thousand dollar polar bear carpet, tainting the pure white fur. It was rare rug to come across, especially at an auction, and he tries not to let it get to him. Violence is not his nature, my ass, Sehun muttered and Lu Han continued to clutch his foot as he cried, delicate voice revealing itself with jagged breaths. Sighing, Sehun took the frightened dolls small foot into his bigger hands and slipped the long cotton sock off, ignoring the protesting wails. It was just a little red but no skin or bone (if dolls had bones) had broken. Very softly, he massaged the tiny, soft foot. It lasted a while until Lu Han calmed down just a little more to pull his hairless leg away with small wiggles and kicks. Standing up to lean down and face the seated doll closer, Sehun looked directly into Lu Hans eyes sternly with his index finger raised. If you dont want your foot to be stepped on again, dont go hiding like that again, he scolded and for a brief moment through his tears, Lu Han gave Sehun the stink eye. It was so faint, the man barely caught it but he did and now he was mildly agitated again. What? he demands. Like the only other time Sehun remembers Lu Han actually speaking, the only thing he understood was the small Master Yixing and the rest was a garbled mess. Yixing Sehun thought with a frown, but then realization dawned on him and he scoffed in annoyance. You think I took you away from your precious Master Yixing? Well I never wished to be with you either but Yixing has left me no choice other than to look after you so well both just have to deal with this. At this, Lu Han cries again, big fat crystal tears dripping down and Sehun doesnt doubt that this kid is much alike those girls that cry at every given chance. With a sigh, the young CEO leaves the room for a moment, only to come back with a blanket and pillow to place beside the doll on the couch. You need to learn to put this on yourself, Sehun says as he tosses the small tube of ointment at Lu Han for him to catchonly for it to bounce off his shoulder and topple to the floor, making the mutilated little face contort and twist to release more tears and Sehun doesnt even know if he cares at this point. Yixing tells me that you wear this penguin pyjama thing when you get cold. I cant sleep without it being cold, so youll either want to look for it or just use these blankets. It coughs a messy noise. You can go through your boxes to also find your

toothbrush and all that. You can brush your teeth in there, Sehun gestures towards the guest bathroom, not that Lu Han looks, just dont make a mess. Goodnight, little boy, Sehun says coldly with sarcasm as he lowers the temperature. He cleans up his calf of blood and goes to sleep that night, trying his best to ignore the little whimpers and sobs and the loveseat he knows is getting ruined beyond ignorance at this point.

Sehun dreams of Chucky hiding under tables, slashing his legs every chance possible with his little dagger of a knife.