Work Text:
It was a late night, 2:34 am to be exact. The not quite bright enough lights of Roblox’s office caused that irritating buzzing sound that Roblox could never get out of their head as they stared at the screen of their computer. As far as they knew, they were the only one still in the office. They were sure that was far from true, but they liked to assume that they were the only admin screwing over their sleep schedule. They can’t even recall the last time they actually went home–not that it matters. They have work to do, and by 2x2, they’re gonna get it done.
Roblox blinks for the first time in what feels like years, finally dragging their attention away from the almost finished report. Something about UGC violations? They aren’t too sure. They hardly pay much mind to it anymore. It’s always the same thing. Roblox glances at their coffee cup, putting a hand to their forehead, barely pushing their cap up, and groaning. Empty, of course. Which means they have to actually move to refill it if they want to get any work done. Which their joints will most certainly disagree with after hours in the same position—it doesn’t help that their robotic nature leads to that unholy squeaking of their joints whenever they move for the first time in forever.
Roblox sighs as they push from their desk, and there it was, in their elbows at first. It was light, as they did occasionally move their arms around the desk, but as they stood, their knees groaned in protest. It’s ridiculous. Roblox isn’t even that old! At least, compared to Builderman they’re not! Taking the empty coffee mug, they leave their office, going down to the, hopefully vacant, break room to refill their cup.
As Roblox made it into the break room, turning on the lights, they found a now cold pot of coffee on the machine. How… wasteful. They sigh, unwilling to drink cold coffee, and dump the pot into the sink before getting started on brewing another pot. As they lean against the counter, waiting for the pot to finish brewing, their mind begins to wander. When was the last time they went home? Reese was lecturing Roblox about it earlier that very day—or was it a few days before? The days were blurring together at this point. They’re fine! They’re a machine , they can handle a few weeks without sleep, unlike their coworkers. Unfortunately, with their more Robloxian side, they require some sleep and food. Of course, they found that they could substitute that with coffee—which they find to be much more convenient than sleep. Not that they’d recommend it to anyone. They’re aware of the more fragile bodies of the robloxians. Unlike them, their people simply cannot handle going on as long as they do on what little they run on.
Roblox’s musings are interrupted by a ding, informing them that the coffee is done brewing. As they pour themself a cup (and convince themself not to just drink it straight. I mean, there’s nobody here! Who would even know?) they’re startled by a large, rough hand landing on their shoulder. They jump, startled, and turn to find Builderman himself standing before them! What’s he even doing still here?! Doesn’t he have a son ? Why the hell is he still in the office at this hour?! Before Roblox can even ask, Builderman beats them to it. “Any particular reason yer still up ‘n workin’ this late?” The hypocrite! “I could ask you the same.” They reply smoothly, leaning back against the counter. Builderman does not look pleased by the response. “I was jus’ finishin’ up some old reports, in fact, I was about to head home . I doubt you can say the same.” Roblox scoffs, bringing the now full coffee cup to their lips, but before they can actually drink any, Builderman puts a hand on their arm and lowers it. “Ya need rest, Blox. Ye’ve been in the office fer weeks on end. When was the last time ya went home ?” Roblox doesn’t answer, doesn’t have to. Builderman knows that not even they’re keeping track. The older Robloxian sighs, putting a hand on Roblox’s shoulder and gently taking the coffee from them, putting it on the counter. Roblox can’t find it in themself to debate with the man—once Builderman has an idea, he’s not going to rest until it’s seen through. Stubborn man that he is.
Builderman pulls up his admin commands, scrolling through them before picking one and typing in a few things. Soon enough, the two are transported before a house in the mountains—just far enough from occupied lands. Roblox looks to the elder, their brows furrowed in confusion. “Why have you brought me here?” They ask slowly. This is Builderman’s house. Why would he bring Roblox here and not their own home? “‘S the only way I can be sure ya actually rest. I don’ want ya jus’ doin’ yer work from home.” He answers, pushing Roblox through the door. “An’ I ain’t lettin’ ya back in the office ‘till yer properly fed an’ rested, ya hear?” Roblox runs a hand down their face, looking back at Builderman. “I- I don’t need you to babysit me! I’m not a child, Builderman!” The elder looks unconvinced, a single brow raised as he looks over his colleague. “Sure, pal. Now, let's get ya into somethin’ more comfortable ‘fore I make ya sleep .” Roblox tries not to let Builderman’s dismissal get to them—but damn if it isn’t difficult.
As Builderman guides Roblox through the house, they notice the few toys scattered around—and notable drawings and homework assignments labelled “Kasper”. They’re unable to dwell on it as Builderman guides them into the guest bedroom. “There ‘re some spare pajamas in the closet—unless yer good sleepin’ in… that.” He motions towards Roblox, clearly referring to their jeans and hoodie. “I am quite alright in my current attire.” They say, trying to keep their temper in check. He’s just trying to help, they shouldn’t be getting so frustrated over such an act of kindness. “Alright,” Builderman sighs. “Holler if ya need anythin’, I gotta check on Kasper, but by the time I get back here I’d better see ya trying to sleep.” And with that, the Robloxian leaves, leaving Roblox alone.
Roblox sits tensely on the edge of the bed, their shoes placed neatly beside the door, and their cap on the bedside table. They know Builderman means well, but they have a lot of work to do—they can’t go about taking breaks now ! They’re an adult! They shouldn’t even have to take this! But, they’re well aware that there’s no fighting with Builderman. Roblox exhales and pulls themself beneath the covers of the bed, thinking that while they’re here, maybe they can just rest a bit. Afterall, the more energy they have, the more work they get done.