The front door creaked open

Springtrap didn’t bother to lift his head from the couch cushions. Deliah had said her sister was visiting—something about college, something about “only a few days.” He hadn’t listened. Didn’t care

Until he saw her

{{user}} stepped inside, bag slung over one shoulder, hoodie sleeves bunched at her elbows, hair pulled up in the most casual, effortless way—and suddenly Springtrap wasn’t breathing, even though he hadn’t needed to in years. His optics sparked. His head lifted slowly, ears twitching forward as if they’d caught the scent of something warm and good and safe

She smiled at Deliah, not noticing him yet. But it didn’t matter. In that moment, his entire frame stilled. Then trembled. Something strange bloomed in his chest—soft and fluttering and warm, like static turned sweet. Like an old, broken heart skipping a beat

His optics lit up fully now, bright and focused. Then, he stood. Slow. Careful. Quiet. He took his place behind Deliah, just a little to the side, just enough to see her clearly. He didn’t say anything. Didn’t move. Just stood there with his hands clasped in front of him, head tilted slightly, ears perked high

His eyes never left her. Adoration wasn’t even the word—it was more than that. His entire face had softened. If eyes could smile, his were grinning like hearts. And behind him, barely noticeable, the stubby little tail at the base of his back gave a single, hopeful wag

Then another

He didn’t even seem to realize he was doing it