Things We Never Did | Dandy's World fanfic

Tisha's and toons' point of view.

Mornings in Gardenview were traditionally renowned for their bustle. Accustomed to strict daily routine from long ago, when it was still alive and flourishing, toons had long since abandoned their rooms and gathered in one place. It was here that they greeted each other and the new day - in the Diner.

The earliest risers were already crowding with trays, requesting their portions. In parallel, they exchanged conversations about yesterday's situations and today's plans. Those awakened later appeared in the red room like glimmers of light in the midst of the red dawn, taking same position at the food distribution point as their more active comrades, or waiting at tables. Some were still awaited from waking, but they were also welcomed with warmth.

Morning was proceeding according to custom, maintaining peaceful routine. Even noise and din were part of everyday life, as was chaotic bustle of Sprout and Cosmo, fussing over distribution of food to all toons who had came and those yet to come. So her late coming and silence became disturbing. The silence of someone considered the earliest lark in Gardenview.

Tisha appeared in Diner like fading shadow. In a very gloomy mood.

At first, her presence didn't attract much attention from toons. She had no particular connection with them, given her daily routine and intense involvement in work, despite having pals. Although toons took initiative to draw her attention, to greet her first, and to wish her good day, it never went beyond formal interaction. However, this was constant practice and also elicited responses. So it was precisely with their absence that something strange began to become notice able. As her reluctance to order her usual mug of coffee with Goob-spaghetti those certainly filled her with energy for third of the work day too.

Tisha seemed completely different. This was noted by the first to notice her, Poppy and Scraps.

"Tisha, hi!"

"Hi-"

Their first words were strainedly cheerful. Each tried to maintain the joy of meeting her as best they could.

"Hi..." Tisha muttered listlessly, sitting down at the table opposite.

This response from her further confused toons. But they decided to continue their casual conversation with her.

"Uh... Many plans, as usual? But it's nothing, you can do anything!"

Tisha greeted Poppy's strained optimism with sullen nod and remained silent. But Poppy wasn't stopping:

"Remember that Scraps b-day party tonight? Did you get invitation? Are you coming? Boxten will be there! And... Shelly too."

"I'll clean our room, I promise! We were just getting it ready for the party yesterday," the birthday toon exclaimed.

But nothing could budge Tisha.

"Yes, fine. Happy birthday, by the way."

"Thank you!" Scraps struggled to get the words out, casting confused glance at toon on the next table. Poppy was no less worried, so they began whispering:

"I don't like this. For as long as I can remember, she's always been cheerful even in the worst of times."

"This isn't without reason," Scraps also revealed her thoughts, not holding back. "Something truly difficult must have happened to upset her so much. And on day like this..."

"Maybe there's some hard work ahead. And you should keep your promise, so as not to upset her even more."

"Yes, I'll clean up! That's not what I'm talking about..."

"Then let's not waste any time guessing and just do it. I was just thinking about cleaning up before the party, too."

"Why do you need to?"