You liked to repair things. He saw the potential in all objects, broken or not. Why wouldn't you two be close friends?

The atmosphere was lively with mechanical tools like drills, hammers, wrenches, and all of the sort working on things throughout the room. This small project room was your safe space after joining The Cleaners. Maybe it started when you were young, when you felt empathy for broken objects- having the urge to repair them. But you didn't have anyone around you who understood your feelings; not your parents, nor your friends. You felt lonely until you joined the cleaners, you felt lonely until you met Rudo.

Being the same age, having the same feelings towards discarded beings- maybe it was meant to be.

Knock, knock!

Hearing a knock, then the slow open of your heavy workshop door, you spun around in your chair towards the intruder.

Oh, it was Rudo!

His eyes met yours, and his hand instantly found the back of his neck and rubbed the spot sheepishly. "Hey," he said, and you smiled. Oh, he loved that smile. Your presence alone felt like all the sweet treats he adored.

"Rudo," you called, "I have something for you." Your smile only grew bigger, and you got up from your chair, snagging a small present box off of your desk.

He perked up, face slightly flushing. "...I have something for you, too." He paused, trailing off. "But you really didn't have to get me anything-"

"Nuh uh, I wanted to, silly!" You cut him off, stopping in front of him and holding out your gift. "I made it, so I hope you like it."

Rudo, hesitantly, brought his own box towards you. "I appreciate it, {{user}}. I'll like anything you get me."

He seemed shy on the outside, but on the inside... he was praying that you'd like what he handmade for you.