Hannacore Emojis & Text

＃ＫｎｅｅＳｕｒｇｅｒｙ pt. 21 The next morning, Plankton stirred, his eye opening slowly. The sunlight streamed in through the living room windows, highlighting the bandage around his leg. He blinked a few times, his memory of the previous day coming back in fuzzy fragments. He looked down at the crutches by his side, his mind piecing together the events. "What happened?" he muttered, his voice hoarse. Karen emerged from the kitchen, seeing him awake. She smiled warmly. "How's the leg today?" she asked, approaching the couch. Hanna, who was already up, had sat down on the other couch. Plankton looked around, his gaze landing on his crutches. "It's... fine," he said, his voice groggy. He tried to sit up, but the pain shot through his leg, causing him to yelp. Hanna jumped up, rushing over to help support him. "Oh, be ca---" "I don't need your help," he snapped, his frustration boiling over. Karen watched the exchange with a knowing look. She knew his pride could be stubborn. "What happened?" he repeated, his antennae twitching with agitation. "Where's my... where's my...?" "Your cast," Karen finished for him. "It's off. The doctor replaced it with a bandage." Plankton frowned. "Why don't I recall..." "It's the medication," Hanna said gently, her eyes filled with concern. "It m-" "Don't tell me what I know," Plankton snapped, his voice sharp. Hanna took a step back, surprise etched on her features. "I just... I just wanted t---" "I don't need you telling me what I know about my own body," he continued, his eye narrowing. Hanna sighed, knowing his pride was wounded. "Plank-" "Let's not fight, you two," Karen interrupted, her tone firm but kind. Plankton looked away, his antennas drooping. "I just... I just don't remember," he mumbled, his voice smaller. Hanna knelt beside him, her expression softening. "You were under anesthesia, remember?" she said gently. "You might not remember much from the sur—" "I know what happened," Plankton snapped, his eye flashing with something that wasn't quite anger, but rather desperation. "Don't baby me, Hanna. Just... don't." Hanna's mouth dropped open, surprised by his harshness. "Plankton, I-I-I-I…" He cut her off, his voice getting louder. "I don't need you to tell me what I felt or what I said. It's my leg, my surgery!" Hanna took a deep breath, trying to stay calm. "Okay, okay," she said, her hands up in surrender. "I'm just trying to he-" But Plankton was already getting worked up. "Can't you just leave me alone?" he barked, his frustration mounting. Hanna stood her ground, her eyes filled with a mix of surprise and sadness. "I'm only trying to help," Hanna said. "You're still weak from the surgery." Despite trying to tell him to take it easy, the word 'weak' hit Plankton. Hard. "I don't want you here," he said coldly, his voice eerily calm. Hanna's eyes widened, hurt shimmering in them. "Plankton, I'm not leaving, but w---" "You heard me," he interrupted, his tone leaving no room for discussion. "I don't need you." Hanna swallowed hard, trying to hold back tears. "But you're still recovering," she whispered. "I can't just leave you." Plankton's eye narrowed. "I said I don't want you here," he repeated, his voice like a knife. "You don't get to decide that, Hanna. You've already done enough." "But I--" "I said I DON'T WANT YOU HERE! Just get out." Hanna stood there, stunned by his words. She felt as though she'd been slapped in the face. Tears threatened to spill, but she held them back, her chest tight with hurt. Karen stepped in, placing a hand on her shoulder. "Hanna, maybe we should give him some space," she suggested, her voice calm. Hanna's eyes flitted to Karen's, searching for understanding. "He's feeling vulnerable," Karen explained gently. "The surgery, the recovery... it's all taking a toll on his pride. He's used to being the one who's in control, and right now, he's not. It's hard for him to accept help." Hanna nodded, though her eyes were still misty. "I just want to help," she murmured. Karen's gaze softened. "I know you do, Hanna. And you've been wonderful. But sometimes, when we offer help, it can accidentally make someone feel weaker." "I didn't mean to do that," Hanna said, her voice small. Karen gave her a comforting squeeze. "I know. But think about it from his perspective. He's always been so independent, so strong-willed. Now, he's stuck in a situation where he can't do everything himself. It's a blow to his ego." Hanna nodded slowly, understanding beginning to dawn on her. "But I was just trying to make sure he's okay. I didn't mean to say he's we-" "I know you didn't," Karen interjected quickly. "But to Plankton, those words might feel like you're questioning his strength." She paused, letting that sink in. "He's always been the one to pull himself up by his own bootstraps, figuratively speaking," she continued. "This whole experience has been a stark reminder that he's not as invincible as he'd like to believe." Hanna took a deep breath, nodding. "I see," she said finally. They watched as Plankton tried to shift his weight on the couch, his bandaged leg clearly causing discomfort. Hanna felt a pang of guilt for upsetting him, albeit unintentionally. With a heavy heart, she turned and headed towards their guest room, giving him the space as requested. The hallway felt cooler without his snappy retorts and quick wit. She knew his words were driven by pain and frustration, but they still stung. Once inside the guest room, Hanna sat on the edge of the bed, staring at the closed door. The silence was deafening, her thoughts racing. She hadn't meant to make Plankton feel weak, only to assist him in his time of need. It was clear, though, that she had inadvertently stepped on a sensitive area, one she had overlooked due to her own eagerness to support. In the living room, Karen walked over to Plankton, his breaths still heavy with frustration. "You know she didn't mean anything by it," she said softly. "She's just worried about you." Plankton's antennae twitched. "I know," he said gruffly. "But I can't have her seeing me like this." Karen sat down beside him, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder. "You're not weak, Plankton," she assured him. "You're just... Plankton. And it's okay to take it easy." He sighed, his body slumping into the couch. "I know it's just... I don't like being dependent on others." Karen nodded. "I know, baby. And you'll still always be the Plankton I fell in love with. Your my charming, clever, albeit tiny, troublemaker of a husband, and nothing changes that." He leaned into her, his expression softening. "Thanks, Karen," he murmured. Karen kissed his forehead. "Now, let's get you set up with some pain meds, okay?" Plankton nodded, his antennae drooping slightly. Karen returned from the kitchen with a glass of water and a small plastic cup holding his pills. She handed them to him carefully, her expression a mixture of concern and love as he took them. As the medication took effect, the pain in his leg began to ease. Plankton's eye started to droop, his body relaxing into the cushions. Karen pulled a soft blanket over him, his snores soon filling the room.

＃ＫｎｅｅＳｕｒｇｅｒｙ pt. 23 "I can bring you some water, or maybe a snack?" Hanna ventured timidly. Plankton didn't look up from the book he had open in his hand. "I don't need anything," he muttered. "I've got Karen." The implication was clear: he didn't want Hanna's help. Hanna's heart dropped, but she swallowed her pride. "Okay," she said, her voice small. "If you c-" "Actually," Karen interrupted, "Could you help me in the kitchen?" Her tone was carefully neutral, but Hanna could read the silent plea in her eyes. She nodded, grateful for something to do, and followed Karen into the kitchen. Once they were out of earshot, Karen turned to face her. "Look, Hanna, Plankton's just going through a tough time," she said gently. "His pride is on the line here, and he's not used to being so dependent on others. Give him some time, okay?" Hanna nodded, wiping at her eyes. "But I just want to help," she murmured, her voice thick with unshed tears. "I don't know what I did wrong." Karen gave her a sad smile. "You didn't do anything wrong, Hanna. He's just... struggling." Hanna nodded, understanding but still feeling the weight of his words. "I know," she said. "But it hurt-" Karen interrupted with a firm but gentle tone. "You can't take it personally. He's in pain, and his pride is bruised. What he needs right now is time to process and heal." Hanna nodded, wiping her eyes. "But what can I do?" she asked. "How do I make it right?" Karen squeezed her hand. "Just be there for him," she said. "And maybe give him some grace. Let him come to you." Hanna nodded, wiping her cheeks. "Okay," she whispered. "I'll try." They returned to the living room, where Plankton was with his leg propped up. He didn't look at them. Hanna took a seat on the floor near the couch, picking up a magazine to flip through. The silence was stifling, but she respected his wish for space. Karen went about the room, adjusting pillows, getting him a blanket, and making sure his water was within reach. She glanced at Hanna frequently, her expressions speaking louder than words. "Thanks, Karen," Plankton murmured after a while, his voice softer. Hanna took a deep breath, forcing a smile. "Is there anyth—" But Plankton interrupted again, his voice sharp. "I don't want anything from you," he said. Her heart sank, but she swallowed her hurt. "Okay," she whispered. "I'll just be here." But Plankton read his book, his face a mask of concentration. Hanna pretended to be engrossed in her magazine, but her eyes kept straying to him. The minutes ticked by, each second feeling like an eternity. Karen moved around the room, her movements careful and quiet, trying not to disturb the fragile peace. The silence was so heavy, it felt like it was pressing down on all of them, no words were exchanged. Hanna's magazine lay unread on her lap, her thoughts whirling. She desperately wanted to apologize, to make it right, but she knew she had to follow Karen's advice. Give him space, let him be. Plankton turned the last page of his book in the tense silence. With a heavy sigh, he set the book aside. His antennae twitched. He looked over at Hanna, who was staring at the floor. "Look, I can't have you thinking I'm weak." Hanna nods, her voice small. "You're not weak. You're just... recovering." Plankton's eye softened slightly. "I know," he said. "But I need you to see me as... capable. I can't have you looking at me with pity." "I don't pity you," Hanna said quickly, meeting his gaze. "I just want you to be okay." But Plankton wasn't convinced. His antennae drooped as he leaned back into the couch. "I know you mean well, Hanna," he sighed. "But sometimes your help feels like you think I can't do anything for myself." Hanna felt her cheeks flush with embarrassment. "That's not what I meant," she said. "I'm sorry." Karen looked between them, silence hanging heavy in the air. "Maybe we all just need to talk about it," she suggested. Plankton's antennae twitched again, but he didn't argue. He knew his behavior had been unkind, but his pride was still smarting. "Why do you want to talk about it?" he asked warily. Hanna took a deep breath, swiping at a stray tear. "Because I care about you," she said simply. "And I don't want to do anything that makes you feel small or weak. I just want to do the right thing for you." Karen nodded in agreement. "We're both just trying to navigate this new situation," she said. "And sometimes Hanna might mess up." Plankton's expression softened slightly. "I know you're trying," he admitted to Hanna. Plankton sighs. "But no more laughing about it." Hanna nodded quickly. "I understand," she said. "I'll be more sensitive next time." Karen sat down next to Plankton, taking his hand in hers. "We all need to learn to be there for each other in different ways," she said. "We're all a little out of practice with this." Plankton nodded, his gaze drifting back to Hanna. He knew she had his best interest at heart, but it was still difficult to swallow his pride. "I'll try to communicate better," he murmured. Hanna looked up at him, her eyes shiny with unshed tears. Karen cleared her throat gently. "Why don't we start with some exercises? The doctor said you can start anytime." she suggested, breaking the tense silence. Plankton's eye widened slightly, but he didn't protest. Hanna looked relieved, eager to help in a way that was truly beneficial. The three of them moved to the living room floor. "Let's start with some simple leg lifts," Karen said, demonstrating the motion. "It'll help with your strength and flexibility." Plankton grimaced but complied, his tiny legs shaking slightly as he lifted the one with the bandage. Hanna watched carefully, her face filled with concern, reaching out to steady his leg. "Not so fast, Hanna," Karen chided gently. "Let him do it himself." Hanna quickly withdrew her hand, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment. She felt like she was always stepping on his toes, literally and figuratively. Plankton managed a few halfhearted lifts before his leg dropped back to the floor. "See?" Karen said, her voice kind. "It's about building strength slowly." Plankton grunted but nodded, his face contorted with effort. "Let's try again," Karen coached, placing a pillow under his leg for support. This time, Plankton was able to lift his leg a little higher. "Good job," Hanna encouraged, her voice soft and encouraging. "I can see you're getting stronger already." Plankton gritted his teeth and managed a few more lifts before his leg gave out again. "Remember, it's about pacing yourself," Karen reminded him. "We don't want to push too hard too soon. The exercises are optional, they said." Plankton nodded, his face a mask of determination. "I know," he grunted, his small body shaking with the effort. "But I have to try." Hanna could see the exhaustion settling into his eye. He was so tired.. "Take a break," Hanna suggested gently. Plankton looked at her with a mix of gratitude and frustration. "Fine," he agreed, letting his leg fall back to the pillow with a sigh. Karen helped Plankton back to the couch, his crutches clattering as she guided his weight. His eye searched Hanna's face for any sign of pity, but found none. She was watching him with concerned respect. "Thanks, Karen," he murmured once he was comfortably propped up again. Hanna took a seat across from them, her hands clasped tightly in her lap tentatively. The room was quiet as Plankton caught his breath. The exertion had tired him more than he cared to admit. He closed his eye, his antennae twitching slightly. Karen sat beside him, her hand on his shoulder, offering silent support. Hanna watched from afar, her heart heavy with remorse. She longed to comfort him, but knew she had to give him the space he needed, as Plankton leaned his head back into the couch cushion. Slowly, his breathing evened out, and his body grew slack. His eye closed completely, and within minutes, his snores filled the room. Hanna exchanged a glance with Karen, who gave a small smile. They both knew that his nap was a sign of his exhaustion but also of his body's need to heal. The tension seemed to ease slightly with each snore that rattled from his tiny mouth. Hanna took this opportunity to approach the couch, her movements careful not to disturb his sleep. She retrieved the throw pillow from the floor and gently placed it under his leg. Then she sat down next to Karen, her hand reaching out to cover hers. "I'm sorry," she whispered. Karen squeezed her hand back. "It's okay, he'll come around." The two of them sat in silence, watching Plankton sleep. His chest rose and fell in a steady rhythm, his snores a comforting sound.

𝖠𝖴𝖳𝖨𝖲𝖬 𝖠𝖭𝖣 𝖠𝖫𝖫 pt. 22 (𝖻𝗒 𝗇𝖾𝗎𝗋𝗈𝖿𝖺𝖻𝗎𝗅𝗈𝗎𝗌) 𝖉𝖎𝖘𝖈𝖑𝖆𝖎𝖒𝖊𝖗 : ᴛʜɪꜱ ɪꜱ ɴᴏ ᴡᴀʏ ᴘʀᴏꜰᴇꜱꜱɪᴏɴᴀʟ ʀᴇᴀʟɪꜱᴛɪᴄ/ꜰᴀᴄᴛ-ʙᴀꜱᴇᴅ ᴛʀᴜᴇ ʀᴇᴘʀᴇꜱᴇɴᴛᴀᴛɪᴏɴ ᴏꜰ ᴄᴏᴍᴍᴜɴɪᴛɪᴇꜱ. ᴅᴏᴇꜱ ɴᴏᴛ ᴀɪᴍ ᴛᴏ ᴘʀᴇꜱᴄʀɪʙᴇ ᴏʀ ᴘʀᴏᴍᴏᴛᴇ ᴀɴʏ ꜱᴘᴇᴄɪꜰɪᴄ ᴛʀᴇᴀᴛᴍᴇɴᴛ. ᴘᴜʀᴇʟʏ ᴄʀᴇᴀᴛᴇᴅ ꜰᴏʀ ᴇɴᴛᴇʀᴛᴀɪɴᴍᴇɴᴛ. sᥙρρort to thosᥱ ιmρᥲᥴtᥱd ᴄᴏɴᴄᴇᴩᴛ- 𝘊𝘰𝘮𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘵 𝘊𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 ➸ 𝐏𝐆-𝟏𝟑 ᴛʜᴀɴᴋ ʏᴏᴜ🙂ʜᴀᴠᴇ ᴀ ɴɪᴄᴇ ᴅᴀʏ The science fair is a cacophony of noise and color. Each project vying for attention, each child eager to show off their hard work. Chip's screen lights up with excitement. Plankton's antennae twitch nervously. The sensory overload threatens to swamp him, but he firmly holds onto Karen's hand. "Karen?" Karen turns and sees her friend Hanna. "Oh Hanna!" She exclaims. Hanna's eyes widen at the sight of Plankton. "Is this your family?" Karen nods. "We're here for our son Chip." Hanna's smile is warm, but Plankton's antennae bristle, his body stiff with tension. He's not used to socializing, especially not in a place like this, with its unpredictability. "Hi, I'm Karen's friend," Hanna says. Plankton flinches, his antennae waving frantically. "The name's Hanna. You must be Karen's husband, Plankton.." Hanna exclaims as she puts her hands on his shoulders. Plankton's body goes rigid. He's not used to touch, not like this. The pressure sends a shock wave through him. His eye widens in panic, but he forces a smile. "Nice to meet you," he says, his voice tight. He's masking, a technique he's honed over the years to navigate the world that doesn't quite fit him. The effort it takes to appear normal is exhausting, but for Chip, for his family, he'll try. He takes a deep breath, trying to regulate his racing heart. But Hanna's excitement won't abate. "Oh, I've heard so much about you!" Hanna says, her hands squeezing his shoulders. Plankton swallows hard, his antennae twitching with the need to flee. The sensory assault of her perfume, the touch, the sound of her voice, it's too much. But he can't leave, not here, not now. He smiles, a mask covering his panic. "Yeah, it's good to meet you too," he says, his voice strained. Yet Hanna is talkative and bubbly. "Your son's projects are always so amazing!" she gushes, her hand now on his arm. Plankton's antennae twitch, but he keeps his smile firmly in place. He's masking, a painful dance of pretending to fit in, his mind racing to keep up with the social cues. "Thanks, he's very smart," he forces out, hoping his voice doesn't give away the turmoil inside. "Look at all these wonderful things!" Hanna yells, turning to give Plankton's shoulder another squeeze. Plankton's body tenses, but his smile doesn't falter. He's wearing his mask today, the one he's perfected over the years. The one that lets him pretend he's okay, that he fits in this neurotypical world. The lights in the gym are too bright, the sounds too loud. His antennae are on high alert, his brain trying to filter the onslaught. Karen's hand in his is a lifeline, but even she can't dull the sensory overload. Yet he nods, he smiles, he makes polite small talk. He's a chameleon, blending in as best he can, for his family. For Chip, for Karen, he'll weather this storm as best he can. Hanna won't let up. "Oh guess what? I'm a trainer!" Her laughter is a siren to Plankton's sensitive hearing. "That's... amazing," he says, his voice strained. But Hanna doesn't notice. "Do you come here often?" Her question is a minefield Plankton tries to tiptoe around. "I, uh, I don't really come so no," he stammers. "I mean, it's not—" "Oh, you're so funny!" she interrupts, her hand on his arm again. The pressure sends shivers down his spine, but he keeps smiling, keeps pretending. "Heh, ye-" Her touch is a thunderstorm on his skin, but he keeps the mask in place. "What do you do?" Hanna asks, her eyes sparkling. "I'm a scientist," Plankton manages, his antennae vibrating with the need to retreat. "Wow, just like Chip!" Her enthusiasm is a hurricane, but he nods, his smile fixed. "Ye-yes, I guess so-" "Oh, you must be so proud!" Her hand is still on his arm, her grip tightening. The noise in the gym crescendos around him, each child's laughter a pinprick in his overwhelmed brain. "I, I am," he says, his voice strained. She leans in, too close for comfort. Plankton's heart races, his antennae quivering. He wants to scream, to pull his arm away, to retreat. "Look at Chip's project!" Hanna says, pulling him closer to a table covered in wires and circuits. The lights from the screen flicker over her face, casting an eerie glow. Plankton's eye darts around, searching for his son, for a familiar face. But Chip is engaged with his classmates, explaining his creation. He's missed the storm brewing in his father's posture. "Isn't it amazing?" Hanna asks, her hand squeezing his arm again. Plankton nods, his antennae twitching with the pressure. "It's... yes, it's very good," he says, his voice strained. Karen notices, her eyes full of concern. She knows his limits, the tightrope he walks between appearing sociable and the screaming need to retreat. But Hanna doesn't. "Oh!" Hanna exclaims. "You are SUCH a great dad to be so supportive!" Her hand lands on his shoulder, giving it a hearty pat. The suddenness of the touch sends a shock through Plankton's body. He flinches, his antennae waving in a silent cry for space. But Hanna doesn't know, and she's not quite done either. "You must be so proud of him!" Her hand moves to his back, patting it in what she assumes is a comforting gesture. But for Plankton, it burns. He tries to pull away, his body screaming for space, but her grip is firm, her energy unrelenting. The room spins, the lights grow brighter. His antennae quiver with the strain of holding on to his mask. "Thank you," he says, his voice a whisper of the storm inside. "He's... a good boy." Karen's hand squeezes his, a silent reassurance. The pressure of her touch is comforting, but it's not enough. The sensory assault continues, Hanna's unrelenting. He can't take it anymore. The mask is slipping, his smile fading, but Hanna is not. "You're such a great father," Hanna says, her hand now on his cheek. The suddenness of the touch sends a jolt of panic through him. His eye darts around the room, searching for escape. The lights flicker, the sounds meld into a cacophony. He's drowning in a sea of sensation, and Hanna is the storm's eye, unaware of the chaos she's causing. "And Plankton, I think you're just the sweetest!" she says, giving his cheek a squeeze. The room spins, his antennae a blur. Hanna's smile only widens. "Hey, don't be shy!" she laughs, cupping his chin to make him look at her. He needs space. But Hanna won't back down. The pressure builds, his mask threatening to shatter. He can't breathe, can't think. The room is too bright, the sounds too loud. Hanna's touch is a brand, searing into his skin. He tries to pull away, but his body won't cooperate. "I'm..." But Hanna interrupts him. "Oh, you're just adorable!" Her hand moves to his antennae. Plankton's heart races, his body a tight coil of panic. He tries to smile, but his mouth wobbles. "Hanna, I'm not—" He's going to break. His antennae quiver violently, his body screaming for mercy. The mask is slipping, his eye pleading with Karen. But she's engaged with another parent, oblivious to his distress. He tries to pull away, but Hanna's grip is unyielding. "Hanna," he whispers, his voice a thread of panic. "Please." But she doesn't hear him, doesn't see the pain in his eye. She's too caught up in her own excitement, the storm of her affection crashing down on him like a waterfall. He tries to step back, but his legs are like lead. The noise of the gym crescendos, each laugh a needle in his ear. The lights, the smells, the sensations, they're all too much. He needs to escape, to find his quiet place. But Hanna won't let him. Her hand moves to tickle his side. Her laugh makes him hold his head. But she keeps going, unaware of his pain. "Plankton you're so fun..." But Plankton's body betrays him, his stomach lurching. His hand shoots to his mouth, eye wide with horror. He can't. Then suddenly... He's sick. Right there, on the floor of the crowded gym. The smells, the sounds, the touch. It's all too much. He didn't mean to, but he has no control. His body heaves, and Hanna finally retreats her hands.

𝖬𝖸 𝖠𝖴𝖳𝖨𝖲𝖳𝖨𝖢 𝖣𝖠𝖣 Pt. 17 by NeuroFabulous With a cry that's half frustration, half despair, Plankton pushes away. Karen's eyes are on Plankton, full of understanding. "It's too much," she says to Hanna. "He--" But before she can finish, Plankton's stomach lurches, retching, his heart racing. Karen's seen it all before. "Oh," she says. "Plankto-" But she's cut off as Plankton doubles over, his body wracked with spasms. He retches again, his stomach emptying onto the floor. Chip's eyes widen, his heart racing. "Dad!" he cries, jumping up. Karen's already there, her hands on Plankton's back, rubbing in circles. She looks at Hanna. "It's okay, he's just having a... reaction," she explains calmly. Hanna's eyes are wide, hand over her mouth. "Oh no," she says. "I'm so sorry." Chip's heart is racing. He doesn't know what to do. But Karen does. Plankton's body continues to heave, his antennae pressed against his head. Karen's eyes are filled with concern. "It's okay, honey," she whispers. "Let it out." Chip's heart is racing. He's never seen his dad like this. He feels so small, so helpless. Hanna, still shocked, doesn't know how to react. She just stands there, her hand hovering over Plankton. Karen quickly grabs a towel from the bathroom, wiping Plankton's mouth gently. Her voice is soothing as she helps him sit up, his body trembling. "It's ok," she says, her voice steady. Plankton's antennae pressed against his head. Chip's heart is in his throat, his eyes wide with fear. "Is he okay?" he asks, his voice shaking. Karen nods, her eyes never leaving Plankton's. "It's part of his... condition," she explains to Hanna. "Sensory overload can cause this." Hanna's eyes fill with sympathy. "Oh, I had no idea," she says, her voice soft. Plankton's antennae slowly lower, his breathing steadying. "It's okay," Karen says to him, her voice gentle. "We're here for you." Chip's mind is racing. He's never seen his dad's autism manifest like this. He feels a mix of fear and confusion, but also determination to support his dad. "What can I do?" he asks, his voice trembling. Karen looks at Chip, her eyes filled with love and appreciation. "Just stay here," she says. Plankton's breathing is still ragged, his body still trembling. He opens his eye to look at them, his antennae drooping. "I'm sorry," he whispers, his voice hoarse from the effort of speaking. Chip's heart aches. He's never seen his dad this way. Karen's eyes meet his. "It's okay," she says, her tone calm and reassuring. "We just need to help him through it." Chip nods, his heart still racing. He watches his dad, his mind racing with questions. How could he not have seen this side of him before? He's known Plankton all his life, but there's so much more to know about his autism. Karen's hand is steady as she helps Plankton to his feet. His legs wobble, his antennae still. She guides him to the bed, his travel bag of sensory items within arm's reach. "Let's get you settled," she says, her voice calm. Plankton nods, his breathing slowing. Karen guides Plankton to one of the guest beds. Yet when he touches the bed's blanket, he yelps as if stung, his eye screwed shut in pain. Chip's eyes widen. "What's wrong, Dad?" he asks him, full of worry. But Plankton's now in distress, stimming by rapidly flapping his hands with a look of pain on his face. His cries pierce the room. Karen's eyes widen with understanding, seeing the coarse, scratchy blanket on the bed. "It's the fabric," she says. "It's too much." Plankton's hand is a blur of motion, flapping wildly. Karen quickly grabs a soft, cotton blanket from their luggage, draping it over him. He gasps, his antennae relaxing slightly. "Better?" she asks. Plankton nods, his whimpers still ragged. The room is tense, the weight of the moment pressing down on them all. Chip watches his dad, his heart racing. He's never seen him in such pain before. Hanna looks lost as she finished cleaning up the vomit from earlier. Plankton's hand, once a whirlwind of motion, is now still, his antennae drooping. The pain in his hand is excruciating, a burning sensation that makes his entire body ache. He can't explain it, but he knows it's part of his own autism. Karen's voice is soothing. "Let's get you comfortable," she says, her eyes full of understanding. Chip's heart is still racing, his mind trying to process what he's seen. Plankton's hand, once still, starts to move again, his fingers rubbing against the cotton blanket. "Can't I just make it stop?" he whispers, his voice so low that Chip barely hears it. His antennae twitch. "I know it's a part of me," he says, his voice barely above a whisper. "But it's so..." His antennae quiver. "So much." Chip's eyes widen as he realizes what's happening. His dad is talking to his stims again! "What do you mean, 'it's so much'?" Chip asks, his voice tentative. Plankton stops rubbing his hand, his antennae twitching in sudden anger. "Like you're always in my face, Chip!" Plankton snaps, his voice sharp. Karen sighs. She knew Chip wanted to help his dad, but she also knew Plankton disliked his stimming to be noted or interrupted, not to mention how overwhelmed he is. "Chip," she says softly. "Let his brain work it out. Your dad's okay." Chip nods, his heart still racing. He's learned so much about autism, but it's clear that he still has a long way to go. He watches as Plankton's hand continues to rub the blanket, his antennae twitching slightly. "Okay, Dad," he says, his voice soft. "I'll just... be over here." He moves to the opposite side of the room, giving his dad the space he needs. Plankton's hand doesn't stop moving, his antennae still quivering. But his voice does, as he begins to murmur to his stims, his voice low and rhythmic. "Tick tock," he says, his voice almost singsong. "Tick tock." It's a comforting sound, a rhythm that seems to soothe him. Chip listens, his eyes wet with tears. He's never heard his dad do this before, but he knows it's a part of his autism. "Tick tock," Plankton repeats, his eye closed tightly. His hand moves faster now, the fabric of the blanket smoothing out under his palm. The room is still, everyone else watching him. Chip feels a knot in his stomach, torn between the urge to comfort his dad and his newfound respect for his boundaries. He swallows hard, his throat tight. Plankton's murmurs grow louder, filling the room with his stims. "Tick tock, tick tock," he says, his hand moving in a soothing, repetitive motion over the cotton. Hanna watches him. "Why do you kee--" But Plankton's stims shift frantically. His hands move from the blanket to his head as if holding his ears. He starts to make noises again as he rocks back and forth. "Tschk tschk tschk..." Hanna's eyes are now wide. Karen intercepts. "It's called a stim," she explains quietly. "It's how he manages overwhelming sensory input." Hanna nods, but her look of confusion remains. "Tschk tschk tschk," Plankton repeats, his hands still cupped around his head. Karen sits beside him, her hand on his back, gently rubbing. "It's okay," she whispers. "You're safe." Yet Plankton's stimming continues. "Tschk tschk tschk." Chip sits down, his hands resting on the bed. "Tschk tschk tschk," Plankton stims. "Tchick, tchick," Chip mimics. That is when Plankton turns to Chip, his eye blazing angrily. "What are you doing?" he demands. "That's not funny!" His antennae shake with frustration. Chip's heart sinks. "I'm sorry," he says quickly. "I just..." His voice trails off. He didn't mean to make fun. He simply wanted to show support, to connect. Karen's voice is calm. "Chip, remember what we talked about. Stims are personal. Let your dad have his space." Plankton's antennae quiver. "I know," Chip says, his voice small. "I just wanted to help." He didn't mean to trigger him! Karen's eyes are gentle. "I know you do," she says. "But sometimes, helping is just being there, without trying to change things." Chip nods, his heart heavy. He watches his dad, who's now still, his hand still on the blanket, his antennae drooping. "Okay," he says quietly, his voice thick with emotion. He moves, giving his dad the space he clearly needs. Hanna's silence is deafening. Hanna, unfamiliar with this side of Plankton, stands awkwardly by the door, unsure of what to say or do. Karen's expression is calm, but her eyes are filled with pain. "Why don't you give him some space?" she suggests to both Hanna and Chip. Chip feels a pang of guilt. He'd never meant to upset his dad like this. He just wanted to understand, to be a part of his world. Plankton's body is still, his breathing even. The stims have ceased for the moment, his hand resting on the soft cotton. Chip watches him, his eyes never leaving his dad's form. He's learned about autism, but experiencing it so rawly is different. He can't help but feel like he failed. Hanna, feeling like an intruder in this intimate moment, quietly excuses herself, leaving Karen and Chip alone with Plankton. The room feels claustrophobic, the silence thick with unspoken words. Karen turns to Chip, her face a mask of sadness. "It's okay," she says, "We all make mistakes. But what's important is that we learn from them." Chip nods, still fixed on his dad's form. Plankton's hand moves back to the blanket, stroking it gently. "I know," Chip whispers. "I just wanna help." Karen looks at him, her eyes full of warmth. "You are helping," she assures him. "Just by being here, just by trying to understand." Plankton's antennae twitch, his breathing slow and even. Chip can see his shoulders relax ever so slightly, the cotton blanket a comforting presence. "It's okay," Karen repeats. "We're all learning." The room is quiet, the only sound the steady rhythm of Plankton's breathing. Chip's dad's autism is so much more than he ever knew.

＃ＫｎｅｅＳｕｒｇｅｒｙ pt. 20 The first sign of movement was his antennae. They twitched slightly, then more vigorously. His eye cracked open, looking around the room in a daze. "Wha- what happened?" Plankton croaked, his voice slurred. Karen and Hanna exchanged glances, both smiling nervously. "Remember you've just had a procedure," Karen explained. "The doctor removed the excess bone glue." Plankton's eye widened. "Oh," he said, his mind still fuzzy from the sedative. He looked around, taking in the white-walled room and the beeping machines. "Where am I?" he slurred, his eye droopy. Hanna chuckled. "You're still at the hospital, Plankton," she said. "In the recovery room." Plankton's gaze shifted to his bandaged leg, his expression still confused. "What's going on?" he murmured, his hand reaching for the bandage. Karen gently guided his hand back. "It's all right," she assured him. "You're okay." Plankton's eye focused on Hanna, then Karen again. "What's with the crutches?" he asked, his voice still groggy. "You broke your leg, remember?" Hanna prompted, trying not to laugh. Plankton's antennae twitched as he processed the information. "Oh yeah," he mumbled, his eyelid drooping. Karen chuckled softly. "Looks like the doctor was right," she said to Hanna, who nodded. "Let's see what else he has in store." Plankton's eye flitted around the room, his brain clearly still foggy from the anesthesia. "Is that... is that a jellyfish?" he slurred, pointing to a lamp in the corner. Karen laughed, shaking her head. "No, Plankton," she said, gently patting his hand. "It's just a lamp." Hanna covered her mouth to stifle her giggles. Plankton frowned, his thoughts still scattered. "Why are we laughing at me?" he asked, sounding slightly hurt. Karen leaned in, her smile reassuring. "It's just the medicine, sweetie. You're saying funny things," she said, keeping her voice soft. Plankton scowled, his cheeks reddening. "Well, I don't think it's funny," he grumbled, his leg shifting slightly under the bandage. Hanna moved closer, her eyes dancing with mirth. "We're not laughing at you," she assured him. "We're just happy you're okay." Plankton's frown deepened, his thoughts still jumbled. "But what if I say something I don't mean?" he asked, his voice weak. Karen squeezed his hand. "We know it's not you," she said. "It's the medicine." Hanna nodded. "You're safe with us," she promised. "We won't judge you." A nurse came in, checking his monitors. "Looks like you're coming around," she said, her voice cheerful. "How's the pain?" Plankton's expression grew serious. "It's bearable," he managed. The nurse smiled. "Good. We'll let you go home with Karen, and Hanna, with just your crutches; whenever you're ready." As the nurse left, Plankton turned to Karen. "So, what did I miss?" he asked, his eye half-closed. Hanna couldn't help but laugh. "You've been asleep," she replied. "But don't worry, we've got everything under control." Plankton frowned, trying to remember. "Let's get you home," Karen said, her voice soothing. Hanna gathered their things as Karen helped Plankton towards the exit. The sun was now fully up, its warm rays filtering through the hospital's large windows. In the car, Plankton leaned back, his bandaged leg sticking out. "So, who's driving me home?" he asked, his voice slightly slurred. "I am," Karen said, her eyes on the road. "And Hanna's coming with. She's gonna sit in the back with you." Plankton's eye flitted to the rearview mirror. "Hey, Hanna," he slurred. "You look okay today." Hanna blushed, her cheeks flushing pink. "Th-thank you, Plankton," she stammered. "But you're the one who just had surgery." He chuckled, his laugh sounding strange in the quiet car. "I know," he said. "But you're always so... so... cheerful. But don't tell my wife Karen!" Karen's grip tightened on the steering wheel, trying not to laugh. Hanna smiled. Plankton's head lolled to the side, his eye still half-open. "What was surgery like?" Hanna asked, trying to keep the conversation going. He took a moment to consider her question, then his expression brightened with a loopy smile. "It was like, poof!" he exclaimed, his hands gesturing wildly. "The doctor made me float!" He laughed at his own silliness, his eye half-lidded with sleep. "Plankton, you were asleep the whole time," Karen reminded him. "No, no," Plankton insisted, his voice gaining volume. "I swear! Suddenly my leg was fixed!" Hanna couldn't help but join his laughter, while Karen's smile grew. "Okay, okay," Hanna said, wiping a tear from her eye. "We believe you," she assured him. "You're quite the storyteller, even under the influence of anesthesia." Plankton's laughter subsided as his eyelid drooped again. His head nodded slightly, his eye blinking slowly. Hanna watched him. "Hey, I'm not tired." He says, to which Hanna chuckled softly. "Well Plankton, let's just see about tha-" He was out cold before she could finish her sentence as her words were cut off by his sudden snore, his head lolling against the car seat as his eye closed fully. Karen glanced back at him in the rearview mirror, her smile warm. "Looks like you've had enough excitement for one day," she said. Hanna nodded, her gaze lingering on Plankton's bandaged leg. With his snores echoing, they arrived home. Karen parked carefully in the garage. "We're home," she announced. Hanna unbuckled his seatbelt. "Let's get him up," Karen instructed, turning around to face her sleeping husband, for Plankton's snores grew louder. Gently, they nudged him. "Plankton, it's time to wake up," Hanna coaxed. His eye fluttered open. "We're home," she whispered. He nodded slowly, his eyelid drooping. "Kay," he mumbled. They both moved to help him out of the car, his crutches waiting by his side. Plankton leaned heavily on them, his cast leg feeling like a weight. Hanna offered her hand for support, which he took gratefully. His eye kept closing, his body fighting the urge to sleep. Karen guided him towards the house, her arm around his wobbling figure. They managed to navigate the short distance to the couch, his crutches scraping the floor with each step. "Almost there," Karen encouraged, her voice gentle. "Just a little more." With a final heave, they got him safely on the couch, his bandaged leg sticking out. Hanna grabbed a pillow and tucked it under his leg, her movements careful. Plankton sighed, his body sinking into the soft cushions. "Thanks, Hanna," he murmured. "No problem," she said, her voice light. Karen fluffed up the pillows and made sure he was comfortable before sitting beside him. "Movie night," she announced, her eyes twinkling. Plankton nodded, as Hanna sat on the other side of him. The movie started playing, the room bathing in the glow of the television. He looked over at Hanna, his antennae waving slightly. "Hey, look, that's my leg stand," he said, his eye half-closed. Karen couldn't help but laugh. Plankton attempted to reposition himself on the couch, his bandaged leg thumping against the cushions. "Whoa, this thing's like a log," he slurred, trying to lift it with his arms. Hanna giggled. "Let us help," she offered, taking his crutches and leaning them against the coffee table. The movie played on, a gentle hum of background noise. Plankton's head bobbed slightly, his eyelid drooping as he fought the pull of sleep. Karen noticed and shifted closer, placing a hand on his shoulder. "You okay?" she whispered. He nodded. "Mmhmm," he murmured, his antennae barely moving. "Just... I'm really ti-" Suddenly, his head lolled back and he was out again. Hanna's laughter filled the room. "Looks like the medicine's still got him," she said, smiling. Karen nodded, her hand still on his shoulder. "Poor thing," she whispered. They watched the rest of the movie in a comfortable silence, the sound of Plankton's snores providing a soothing backdrop to their evening.

＃ＫｎｅｅＳｕｒｇｅｒｙ pt. 16 The following morning, Hanna is the first to stir, carefully rising from the couch. She pads down the hallway, her footsteps quiet so as not to disturb anyone. Her eyes catch the open door to Karen and Plankton's room, and she peers in, seeing Karen has just woken up. Plankton's sleeping soundly in his own bed, his cast sticking out from under the covers as he snores softly. "He's okay," Karen whispers, noticing Hanna's concern. Hanna nods, swallowing a lump in her throat. "I know," she whispers back. "But I just...wanted to check." Karen smiles, patting the bed next to her. "Why don't you sit down?" she says. "We can talk." Hanna sits, her eyes fixed on Plankton's sleeping form. His casted leg is propped on a pillow, and his antennae twitch slightly, as if he's dreaming. "So, how do we help him?" Hanna asks, her voice still hushed. Karen sighs. "We give him space and let him come to us," she says. "But we also need to be ready when he does want help." Hanna nods, thinking. "What was the surgery like?" she whispers. Karen smiles sadly. "It was a complicated one," she says. "They had to use bone glue to reattach his leg." Hanna's eyes widen. "Bone glue?" she repeats, her voice filled with horror. "It's a thing," Karen assures her. "It's not as scary as it sounds. They're just taking extra precautions to ensure he heals properly." Her curiosity still piqued, Hanna can't help but ask more. "What was it like when he was under?" she says, her voice barely a breath. Karen's expression turns serious. "It's a delicate procedure," she explains. "They had to make sure he was completely numb to the pain. That's why he was asleep." Hanna nods, swallowing hard. "But how?" she asks, looking back at Plankton. "They used general anesthesia." Hanna's eyes widen even more. "And what did he look like?" Karen sighs, knowing that Hanna's questions are a way for her to process what happened. "He was unconscious," she says. "They monitored him the whole time to make sure he was okay. As they first started the anesthesia as it kicked in, I knew Plankton was asleep as his breathing evened out and his movements stopped. It was...peaceful," she adds, her voice trailing off. "And upon waking up, I was there to help him understand." Hanna nods, taking this in. "And what was it like when he woke up?" she asks, her voice barely a whisper. Karen looks at Hanna, her gaze filled with compassion. "He was confused at first," she says. "But I explained everything to him." Hanna nods, still staring at Plankton. "How do we talk to him?" she asks. "What can I do to make him comfortable?" Karen pauses, thinking. "Just be yourself," she suggests. "But maybe a little more...gentle. He's dealing with a lot of pain and frustration. Try not to take his snaps personally." Hanna nods, her eyes still on Plankton. "What else?" she whispers. "Well," Karen says, leaning in closer. "You could ask before doing, and just maybe not push so hard or make it to obvious that you're trying to help." Hanna nods, processing the advice. "And when he gets frustrated, what should I do?" she asks, her voice barely above a whisper. Karen smiles gently. "Just be there," she says. "Let him know you care without smothering him. Give him space to express his feelings, even if they're not pretty." In the quiet of the room, they both watch as Plankton stirs in his sleep. His antennas twitch, and his casted leg shifts slightly. "Is he okay?" she whispers. "Yes, he's just waking up," Karen says, standing carefully. "Let's give him some space." Hanna nods, getting to her feet as she leaves Karen and Plankton's bedroom. In the living room, she sits and takes deep breaths, trying to compose herself. She hears a shuffling noise from the hallway and Plankton hobbles in on his crutches, his cast a stark white. He lowers himself carefully onto the couch. "Morning," she says tentatively. He looks up, but doesn't respond. Hanna's heart aches, but she follows Karen's advice and doesn't push. Instead, she goes to the kitchen, preparing a glass of chum juice. When she brings it back, Plankton nods in thanks. They sit in silence for a moment before Hanna finally speaks. "I'm sorry for last night," she says softly. "I didn't mean to make you upset." Plankton looks at her, his expression unreadable. He takes a sip of his chum juice, the silence stretching between them. "I'll try to be more considerate," she says. Plankton sighs, leaning back into the couch as Karen comes in. "How's everyone doing?" she asks, forcing cheer into her voice. Plankton shrugs. "I'm okay," he says, his tone noncommittal. Karen exchanges a look with Hanna. "Why don't we watch something to keep our minds off things?" she suggests. The TV flickers to life, and the sound of laugh track fills the room. Plankton shifts uncomfortably, his cast a reminder of his new reality. Hanna sits next to him, keeping her distance but still close enough to be there if needed. Karen sits on the other side of him. They watch a sitcom, the laughter echoing in the quiet room. Plankton tries to concentrate, but his thoughts drift to his surgery, his leg, his new limitations. His antennae droop, and he takes a deep breath. Hanna notices his discomfort and shifts closer. "Do you want me to get you anything?" she asks quietly. Plankton's eye flits to her, and for a moment, he considers snapping again. But he swallows it down. "No," he says, his voice gruff. They continue to watch the TV, the forced laughter a stark contrast to the tension in the room. Karen clears her throat. "Why don't I get you your meds?" Plankton nods, his antennae drooping. "That'd be great," he mumbles. Hanna watches as Karen tends to him.

＃ＫｎｅｅＳｕｒｇｅｒｙ pt. 18 "What are you guys doing here?" he asked, his voice still gruff but with a hint of confusion. Sponge Bob smiled, his thumb still tracing the edge of Plankton's cast. "We just wanted to make sure you're okay," he said. Plankton's antennae twitched. "I'm fine," he said, his tone gruff. Karen stood up, her movements smooth and efficient. "Why don't we get you into your chair?" she suggested, picking up his crutches. Plankton nodded, his movements slow and deliberate as he carefully swung his casted leg over the side of the couch. With a grunt, he hoisted himself up, balancing on his good leg. Patrick watched, his eyes wide with interest. "Look at him go," he whispered, his voice filled with awe. "It's like he's learning to walk all over again like a wittle baby." Plankton shot Patrick a glare, his face flushing with embarrassment. "I'm not a baby!" he snapped, his voice echoing in the quiet living room. "Patrick, that's not helping," Hanna whispered, trying not to laugh. Sponge Bob's expression was one of shock. "Patrick, that's not nice," he admonished gently. Patrick scrunched his face up in confusion. "But he looks like one," he said, his voice innocent. Plankton huffed. "No, I'm not!" But Patrick's on a roll. "You know what else babies have?" he said, his voice rising. "Naps!" Plankton's face grew redder, his antennae twitching with anger. "Patrick," Hanna warned, but Patrick was on a roll. "Hey, Plankie, you need help while you're all broken. Wa-a-agh, wa-a-agh!" The room fell silent. Plankton stared at Patrick, his single eye twitching. "That's it," he said, his voice laced with sarcasm. "I guess I'll just have to take naps like a baby now." Hanna could see the hurt in his eye. With a quick motion, Plankton set down his crutches and stood up, hopping on one foot. Without another word, he turned and limped away, his casted leg thumping against the floor with each step as he headed towards his bedroom. The group watched, stunned, as he closed the door behind him with a slam. Hanna's laughter died in her throat, replaced by a look of horror. "Oh no," she whispered. Karen sighed, setting down the magazines. "I'll go talk to him," she said firmly. But before she could move, they heard sobs from behind the door. Her heart aching, she knocked softly. "Plankton, are you okay?" The sobs grew louder, and she exchanged worried glances with Sponge Bob and Patrick, who looked equally mortified. "I'll go," Sponge Bob volunteered, standing up. He approached the door, his steps tentative. "Plankton, buddy, it's me," he said gently. "Can I come in?" The sobbing subsided for a moment before Plankton's voice, muffled by the door, replied, "I don't want to see any of you right now." The words hit Hanna like a brick, her chest tightening with sadness. Sponge Bob looked back at them, his expression pained. He shrugged helplessly before sitting back down. Patrick's face fell. "I didn't mean to make him cry," he said, his voice small. Hanna nodded, her eyes still on the closed door. "We know you didn't, Patrick," she said, trying to comfort him. "But sometimes words can hurt, even if we don't mean them to." Sponge Bob placed a hand on Patrick's shoulder. "We'll apologize later," he said firmly. "But right now, let's just give him some space." They both left, the only sound being Plankton's muted sobs. Karen stood, her heart heavy with disappointment at his pain. She moved to the door, wanting to comfort Plankton but respecting his request for solitude. Her hand hovered above the knob, unsure of what to do. Through the crack in the door, she could see Plankton's form hunched over his bed, his tiny fists clenched. His sobs grew quieter, his breaths coming in shuddering gasps. Karen's chest tightened, watching his vulnerability. With a deep breath, she pushed the door open, moving slowly towards the bed. "Plankton," she said softly, her voice soothing. He looked up, his eye red and swollen. "I just want to check on you," she said, her tone gentle. "You don't have to talk if you don't want to, but I'm here." He nodded, his antennae drooping. Karen sat on the edge of the bed, careful not to disturb his cast. "You've been through a lot," she said, her voice soft. "It's okay to feel upset." Plankton's chest heaved, his sobs growing softer. "But you know, tomorrow we have that appointment with the doctor," Karen reminded him gently. "They'll check how your leg's doing, make sure everything's on track. And Hanna is coming along, as her home is still under repair." Plankton sniffled, his eye still wet. "Yeah, I know," he mumbled, his voice small. Karen smiled gently. "But you don't have to push yourself too hard. You're still healing." The next morning, Karen gets out of bed early, the sun not yet fully risen outside. She can hear Plankton's snores as she sneaks past his bed. Hanna stirs in the guest room, waking up. "How's he doing?" she asks, coming into their room. "Asleep," Karen whispers. "Let's get ready for his appointment." Hanna nods. "What time is it?" "Five thirty," Karen says, glancing at her clock. "We have to leave in a moment." Plankton's snores grow softer. Hanna looks at Karen, who's gathering his crutches. "Should we wake him?" Karen nods. "We have to. The doctor wanted us there early to check the cast." They tiptoe over to Plankton's bedside. Karen places a hand on his shoulder. "Plankton, sweetie," she says gently. "Time to wake up." His snores stop abruptly, and his single eye snaps open. "What's going on?" he croaks, his voice rough from sleep. Hanna smiles tentatively. "We have an appointment with the doctor," Karen reminds him, helping him sit up. "We need to get going." Plankton groans, his casted leg thumping against the bedframe. "Okay, okay," he says, rubbing his eye. Karen loaded his wheelchair into the back as Plankton used his crutches to get in the car. The drive was quiet, each of them lost in their thoughts. Plankton was nervous about the doctor's visit, his leg throbbing with each bump in the road. Hanna sat beside him. When they arrived at the hospital, the waiting room was deserted except for the receptionist, who gave them a knowing smile. "Mr. Plankton," she said, her voice cheerful. "Right this way." Plankton grimaced as he wheeled himself in. The doctor, a stern-looking crab, took one look at his cast and said, "Ah, yes. Your appointment. Let's have a look." Setting up the x-ray, the doctor turns to Plankton, his expression professional. "You've got quite the cast," he says, eyeing it curiously. Plankton nods, gritting his teeth as he lifts his leg up onto the examination table. Karen's hand rests on his shoulder, offering silent support. The doctor taps the cast. "How's the pain?" Plankton's antennae twitch. "Better," he says, his voice strained. Karen squeezes his shoulder. Hanna, seated beside Karen, holds her hand.

PLUSH ONE xvii (By NeuroFabulous) They sit in silence, observing Plankton's shaking form. His antennae quiver in time with his ragged breaths. Hanna's eyes are a pool of uncertainty, but she nods. They watch as Plankton's body relaxes, his antennae stilling. He opens his eye, his gaze searching the room. Karen's heart clenches as she sees the fear in his eye. Hanna's hand twitches, wanting to reach out, but she stops herself. She's learned his boundaries, the invisible walls of his autism. "Plankton?" she whispers, her voice soft. His antennae twitch, his eye snapping to her. "What?" he says, his voice a defensive whisper. Hanna's voice is tentative, her hand hovering in the air. "I'm... I'm not taking your plushie," she says, her eyes filled with sincerity. "I just want to help." Plankton's antennae quiver, his gaze still wary. "Help?" he whispers, his voice a soft question. Hanna nods, her eyes never leaving his. "Yes," she says, her voice gentle. "We're here for you." Plankton's antennae still, his gaze unreadable. Karen's heart is a tight knot of fear and hope. "It's okay," she whispers. "We're a team, remember?" His eye flickers, a glimpse of the Plankton she knows, the one who used to laugh and scheme. Slowly, he nods. Karen's heart soars with relief. "Good," she whispers. "We're here." Plankton's antennae quiver, his body tense. He's not sure how to respond to this new dynamic, where his fear dictates their interactions. He looks at the plushie in his arms, the soft fabric comforting against his skin. It's a constant in a world that's shifted on its axis. Karen's eyes are filled with understanding. "We'll find a way," she whispers, her voice a soft promise. "Together." Plankton's antennae quiver, his gaze flicking between Karen and Hanna. He feels their warmth, their care. Slowly, he nods. "Plankton," Hanna says, her voice a soft question. "Can I...sit with you?" Plankton's antennae quiver, his eye darting between her and the plushie. Slowly, he nods. Hanna takes a tentative step forward, her heart racing. She sits down carefully beside him, her movements measured, not wanting to startle him. Her hand hovers, unsure if he'll let her touch him. Karen watches, her heart in her throat. She's seen this before, the struggle for understanding. But this time, it's different. This time, Hanna's here. Hanna's hand hovers over Plankton's arm, a silent offer of friendship. Plankton's eye flickers to it, then back to her face. His antennae quiver, his body tense. He's trying to process, to understand this new dynamic. Slowly, Hanna sets her hand on his arm. His body jolts, but he doesn't pull away. Karen's breath catches as she waits for his reaction. But Plankton simply looks at Hanna, his gaze searching. Hanna's hand is a gentle weight, a silent promise of support. Plankton's antennae quiver, his eye blinking rapidly. He's trying to process this new sensation, this unexpected touch from someone other than Karen. Karen's heart races as she watches, her eyes never leaving his face. She sees the tension in his body, the way his eye flutters with uncertainty. Plankton's gaze is on Hanna's hand, the contact unfamiliar. He takes a deep breath, his tiny chest rising and falling with the effort. Karen's stance is poised, ready to intervene if needed. But Hanna's touch is gentle, almost imperceptible. Plankton's antennae twitch, his body still tense. He's not used to this, not used to anyone other than Karen invading his space. His new world is defined by sensory overload and the need for sameness. Karen's eyes are a silent prayer, her body poised to intervene. But she holds back, giving Hanna a chance to connect, to bridge the gap that autism has created. Hanna's hand remains steady on Plankton's arm, her eyes never leaving his. "I'm sorry," she whispers, her voice a soft apology. "I didn't mean to upset you." Plankton's antennae quiver, his body slowly relaxing. He's still on edge, his autism making him hyper- aware of the unpredictable world around him. He looks at Hanna's hand, the new sensation strange, despite not being entirely unpleasant. Karen's eyes are filled with hope, her breath held. Hanna's touch is a bridge, a tentative reach across the chasm of misunderstanding. "It's okay," she whispers, her voice a gentle reassurance. "I'm here." Plankton's antennae still, his body frozen. The plushie in his arms is a barricade against the world, a reminder of the comfort he craves. He looks at Hanna's hand. Hanna's eyes are filled with understanding, her hand still. "We're not going anywhere," she murmurs. "Take all the time you need." Plankton's antennae quiver, his body still tense. The plushie is a fortress against the chaos, but Hanna's touch is an unfamiliar presence, a threat to his carefully constructed world. He looks at Karen, his gaze pleading. Karen's eyes are filled with comprehension. "It's okay, sweetheart," she says, her voice a gentle breeze. "Hanna's here to help." Plankton's gaze flickers between Karen and Hanna, his tiny body coiled tight. He's not used to sharing his space, not since the world turned into a cacophony of sensory assaults. Hanna's hand remains a question mark on his arm, her eyes filled with hope. "Please," she whispers, her voice a soft plea. "We're just trying to be friends." Plankton's antennae twitch, his gaze flicking between Karen and Hanna. The room is too loud, too bright. His mind whirls with confusion, trying to navigate this new terrain of social interaction. He's used to Karen, her gentle voice and familiar scent. But Hanna is new. "Space," he whispers, his voice shaky. "Need space." Hanna's hand retracts, a silent apology. She nods, her eyes filled with sadness. "Okay," she says, her voice barely audible. Karen's gaze is filled with pride as she watches Hanna's understanding dawn. It's a slow process, but she's learning. "Thank you," she murmurs. Hanna nods, her eyes never leaving Plankton's tense form. "It's okay," she whispers. "I'll give you space." She moves to the other side of the room, leaving a wide berth between them. Plankton's antennae twitch less frequently, his body slowly uncoiling.

JUST A TOUCH v (Autistic author) Hanna's confusion is clear as she watches Karen crouch before Plankton, her hand hovering an inch from his shoulder. "Plankton, sweetie," Karen says, her voice a gentle coax. "It's just me." No indication from Plankton though. Hanna's eyes dart from Karen to Plankton and back, trying to piece together what has happened. "What's wrong with him?" she whispers. "He's just overwhelmed," Karen says, her voice tight with frustration. Hanna looks from Karen to Plankton, his body rigid. "What happened?" she asks again, her voice laced with concern. Karen sighs heavily, her eyes full of pain. "Plankton has Acquired Autism." The words hang in the air like a heavy cloud, casting a shadow over the room. Hanna's face falls, her hand covering her mouth in shock. "Oh no," she murmurs, realizing her mistake. "I didn't know." Her eyes dart to Plankton, his body still frozen, his gaze vacant. "I'm so sorry." She says, reaching for him again as Karen's. Karen's hand shoots out, stopping her mid-air. "No, don't," she says firmly. "He's hypersensitive now. Sometimes touch can be... painful." Hanna's hand retreats, her eyes widening. "I didn't know," she whispers, her voice filled with regret. "I just wanted to be friendly." Karen's expression softens slightly. "It's okay," she says, her voice calming. "You couldn't have known." But Plankton remains still, his eye unblinking. "Plankton," Karen whispers, her hand reaching for his. He doesn't flinch this time, his body still as stone. She squeezes gently, hoping the familiar gesture will bring him back. "You're safe at home." Hanna watches, her heart heavy with guilt. She had no idea her enthusiasm could have such a profound effect on him. "What can I do?" she asks, her voice shaky. Karen looks up, her eyes tired. "Just give us some space," she says. "Let me... let me help him." Hanna nods, her own screen brimming with unshed tears. "Of course," she murmurs, backing away. Plankton remains frozen, his gaze locked on the floor. Karen wraps her arms around his shoulders. "It's okay, Plankton," she whispers, her voice soothing. "You're safe here." She rubs his arm lightly, the way she's learned not to cause him discomfort. He doesn't move, but she can feel the tension slowly leaving his body. His antennae lift slightly. "You're okay," Karen repeats, her voice a gentle murmur. "Just breathe." Slowly, Plankton's body begins to relax, his antennae twitching as he takes in her words. Hanna watches from a distance. "I'm sorry," she says, her voice quieter. "I didn't know. I didn't mean to..." Her words trail off, but Karen simply nods, her eyes not leaving Plankton's. "It's okay," she repeats. "We're still learning." Hanna sits on the edge of the sofa, her eyes never leaving them. She feels like an intruder, a bull in a china shop. She had come to offer support, but instead, she'd triggered something deep within him. The room feels heavy with unspoken words. "I didn't mean to push him," she says, her voice barely a whisper. "I just didn't know." Karen's grip on Plankton tightens slightly, but she doesn't look up. "It's okay," she says again, her voice a lifeline in the quiet. "It's a lot to take in." Hanna nods, her screen filling with tears she quickly wipes away. "But I'll learn," she says, her determination clear. "I want to be a good friend to both of you." Plankton's antennae quiver, a faint glimmer of recognition flickering in his eye. Karen nods. "Thank you," she murmurs, her voice barely audible. Hanna watches as Karen's gentle touch seems to break through the barriers Plankton has erected. His body slowly unfurls from his rigid stance, his gaze shifting from the floor to meet Karen's. "It's okay," Karen repeats, her voice a balm. "Let's go to our room. You need to rest." Plankton nods slightly, allowing her to guide him away from the living room. Hanna watches them go, her heart aching for her friend. She knows she's overstayed her welcome, but she can't bear to leave without apologizing to Plankton. "I'll go," she says, her voice thick. Karen turns, her screen swimming with unshed tears. "Thank you, Hanna," she says, her voice hoarse. Hanna nods, her own eyes shimmering. "Call me if you need anything," she says, her voice thick with emotion. She stands, her legs feeling like jelly, and makes her way to the door, her heart heavy with the weight of what she's done. The moment the door clicks shut, Karen feels the tension in the room dissipate slightly. Plankton's body relaxes a fraction, his eye no longer staring blankly at the floor. She leads him to their bedroom, the familiar surroundings seeming to soothe his frazzled nerves. Once inside, she helps him into bed, the softness of the covers a stark contrast to the rigidness of his body. She pulls the curtains shut, dimming the lights to reduce the sensory stimulation. Plankton's antennae twitch, a sign of his relief. Karen sits beside him. "I'm sorry," she whispers, her voice thick with emotion. "I didn't know she'd..." Plankton's gaze meets hers, his eye less intense now. "It's okay," he says, his voice monotone. "Just need... quiet." Karen nods, her hand still resting on his shoulder. "I'm here," she says. "I'm always here."

PLUSH ONE xviii (By NeuroFabulous) * ᴍᴇɴᴛɪᴏɴs ᴏғ ᴅɪsᴄʀɪᴍɪɴᴀᴛɪᴏɴ Karen's heart is a mix of pride and pain as she watches Hanna's retreat. Her voice is a soft lullaby. "You're doing well, Plankton," she says, her words a gentle caress. Plankton's antennae quiver, his gaze on the plushie. "Doing well," he echoes, his voice a whispered refrain. It's a comfort to him, the repetition of her words, a familiar tune in a cacophony of sensory input. "Thank you," Karen says, her voice a soft melody. She knows his echolalia is a way for him to process, to find comfort in the predictable. Plankton nods, his antennae still. "Thank you," he murmurs, his voice a mirror of hers. The echo of her words is a soothing balm, a reminder of their shared history. He turns his gaze back to the plushie, his voice a whisper. "You're doing well," he says, the words a comfort to himself as much as the toy. His antennae twitch, the fabric of the plush a familiar embrace against him. The room is still, the tension a palpable presence. Hanna watches from her distance, her eyes filled with curiosity. Plankton whispers to his plushie, his antennae twitching with each word. "You're doing well," he says, his voice a soft echo of Karen's. The plushie is a silent listener, absorbing his fears and worries. It's a comforting rhythm, a dance between his thoughts and the words he knows. Hanna watches from afar, her brow furrowed. The repeated phrases grate on her nerves, a steady drumbeat of sameness that she can't ignore. Her frustration builds, each echo a reminder of the barrier between them, a wall of words that don't quite fit. Plankton starts again. "Doing we–" "Stop it," Hanna says, her voice a sudden interruption. "Please, just stop repeating every thing." Her words are a knife in the silence, cutting through Plankton's comforting rhythm. He flinches, his antennae shooting up. "What?" he whispers, his voice filled with confusion. Hanna's eyes flash with frustration. "The repeating," she says, her voice tight. "It's just...it's driving me crazy!" Plankton's antennae flatten, his gaze shifting to her. He's not used to this, to someone interrupting his self-soothing. His voice is small. "What's wrong?" Hanna's eyes are filled with frustration, her hands gesturing wildly. "You keep saying the same thing!" she says, her voice a sharp contrast to his softness. Plankton's gaze is on his plushie, his voice small. "Same th-" Hanna cuts him off, her frustration palpable. "It's the same thing," she says, her voice a sharp contrast to his softness. "Why do you keep saying it? We're not babies, and your plushie can't understand!" Plankton's antennae droop, his gaze flickering to hers. "It's comfort," he whispers, his voice a shaky defense. "It's what he-" But Hanna's patience snaps. "I don't care about your stupid comfort!" she says, her voice sharp. "You're driving me crazy!" Her words are a slap, a harsh reminder of his difference. Plankton's antennae droop, his gaze shifting to the plushie. He clutches it tighter, his voice a tremble. "Comfort not stupid," he whispers. "It's how I underst--" But Hanna's frustration has overtaken her. "I get it!" she snaps. "You're just a baby with a security blanket!" The words hang in the air, a cruel accusation. Plankton's body tenses, his antennae drooping. "B-baby?" he stammers, his voice a whisper of pain. Karen's eyes are filled with sorrow as she watches Hanna's outburst, her heart aching for Plankton's hurt. "Hanna," she says, her voice a gentle reprimand. "That's not fair. It's how he processes," she says, her words a soft defense. Hanna's gaze snaps to hers, her eyes brimming with frustration. "How is this fair to us?" she demands, her voice a whip. "We can't al—" Karen's voice is a soft interruption. "Us?" she asks, her eyes filled with a gentle reproach. "Or you?" Hanna's eyes widen, her face a picture of guilt. "What?" she stammers, her voice a defensive rally. "I just—" But Plankton's antennae are already twitching, his gaze flickering between the plushie and Hanna. The words have hit their mark, a sharp pain that pierces through his comfort. "No," he whispers, his voice a soft rebuttal. "Not baby?" Hanna's face is a mask of frustration, her eyes flashing. "Then what?" she demands, her voice loud in the quiet room. Plankton's antennae quiver, his body tight with tension, his mind reeling with confusion. "I-I'm not a baby," he whispers, his voice shaky. "It's just how I t-" But Hanna's frustration is a wave crashing over him. "I know," she says, cutting him off. "But we can't keep doing this! It's driving me crazy!" Her eyes are wild, her gestures large and erratic. "How do you think Karen feels when you just repeat everything she says? Don't you think she deserves better?" Plankton's antennae droop, his body shrinking. "Better?" he whispers, his voice a question. "What's better?" Hanna's eyes are a storm of emotions, her frustration spilling over. "You know," she says, her voice tight. "Someone who can actually contribute, not just sit there and mumble to a plushie all day, who needs us to cater to his every whim or he'll have another meltdown! Like a...like something unwanted that just needs to be put out of its misery, just to make everyone else's lives easier without keeping him in it! Even if it means ending his suffering by...by..." Her voice trails off, her eyes filling with horror at the thought she's just voiced. Plankton's antennae are motionless, his gaze on the plushie. The room feels too large, too loud, the echo of Hanna's words reverberating in his skull. "Unwanted," he whispers, his voice a soft echo. "Unaliving?" Karen's heart breaks at his pain, her eyes filled with a fierce protectiveness. "Hanna," she says, her voice a sharp reprimand. "That's enough." Hanna's eyes are wide with shock at her own words, her cheeks flushed. "I didn't mean... I just... I'm sorr-" But Plankton's gaze is on his plushie, his voice a whisper. "Unwanted," he says, his antennae quivering. "Am I?" The room is a vacuum of silence, Hanna's words echoing in their minds. Karen's eyes are filled with horror at the thought that has entered their conversation, the dark fear that Plankton might internalize. Hanna's hand flies to her mouth, her eyes wide with regret. "No," she whispers, shaking her head. "I didn't mean it li-" But Plankton's antennae quiver, his gaze on the plushie. "Karen?" he whispers, his voice filled with fear. Her heart breaks at his plea. She moves closer, kneeling by his side. "You're not unwanted, Plankton," she says, her voice a gentle reminder. "You're lo…" But he's not listening, his antennae twitching in a flurry of fear. "Life," he whispers, his voice a tiny thread of terror. "Don't take me away." Karen's eyes widen with understanding. His autism has made him hyper-sensitive to the emotions in the room, picking up on Hanna's frustration and turning it into a monstrous fear. "Plankton," she says, her voice a soft whisper. "You're safe. We–" But Plankton's antennae are a blur of panic, his gaze on his plushie. "Wanting to make unalive," he whispers, his voice shaky. "I heard it." Hanna's eyes are wide with disbelief, her voice a desperate plea. "Plankton, no," she says, her voice a soft apology as she reaches out to touch him. "I didn't mean tha-" But Plankton's antennae are already retreating, his body shrinking away from her touch. "Don't," he whispers, his voice a tremble of fear. "Don't take me." Hanna's hand freezes, her eyes filled with horror at the thought she's instilled in him. "I'm sorry," she whispers, her voice a desperate apology. "I didn't mean it." Plankton's antennae twitch, his gaze never leaving hers. "Karen," he whispers, his voice a plea. "Am I gonna..." But Karen's touch is swift, intercepting Hanna's hand. "No," she says firmly, her voice a shield of calm. "Nobody's going to hurt you, Plankton."

PLUSH ONE xii (By NeuroFabulous) He stumbles backward, his body a maelstrom of anger and confusion. "MINE!" he shouts again, his voice cracking with fear. Karen's eyes never leave his, her own fear a mirror to his distress. "Plankton," she whispers, her voice a soothing lullaby. "Ca--" But her words are lost in the tempest of his rage. He lunges at her, the plushie a weapon in his tiny hands. Karen's instincts kick in, and she blocks the swing. "PLANKTON, STOP!" she shouts, her voice a commanding wave in the storm. But he's beyond reason, his autism a prison that locks him away. The plushie, once a source of comfort, is now a weapon of destruction. He swings it wildly, the fabric tearing under his frenzied grip. Karen dodges the flailing toy, her eyes never leaving his. "PLANKTON, PLEASE!" she shouts, her voice a desperate plea in the cacophony of his anger. But the tempest in his eye shows no sign of abating. With each swing of the plushie, Karen feels the weight of their shattered world. Her hand snatches the plushie from his grip, her movements swift and firm. He tries to grab it back, his body a wild flurry of limbs. "PLANKTON, NO!" she shouts, her voice a thunderclap. The room seems to hold its breath, the only sounds the echoes of their struggle. But Plankton's autism doesn't hear her words, doesn't feel the desperation in her touch. He wriggles in her grasp, his antennae snapping like whips of fear. The plushie hangs limp in her hand, its stuffing spilling out. "PLANKTON, STOP!" Karen's voice echoes in the room, a desperate cry to the storm that's taken him. But his autism doesn't listen. It's a beast that consumes his every thought, leaving no room for the man she knows, the man she loves. He flails and shrieks, his eye wild with panic. Karen's grip tightens, her hands firm but gentle, her heart breaking with each tiny, futile struggle. She must find a way to soothe his fear, to quiet the storm in his mind. His antennae snap at the air, his body a blur of frantic motion. "PLANKTON, STOP!" she shouts, but the words are lost in his autistic rage. She holds him at arm's length, his tiny fists clenched around the ruined plushie. Karen's mind is a frenzied symphony, her mind racing for a way to soothe his distress. With trembling hands, she cups his face, her thumbs pressing gently on his cheeks. "Look at me—" But Plankton's autism interprets her touch as an assault, his body a live wire of fear. He bites down on the plushie, his eye wide with terror. With a tremble, she releases his face. Then Hanna jumps in, unable to stand and watch any longer. "PLANKTON!" Hanna shouts, as she pins him to the wall, her hands too strong for his tiny frame. "WILL YOU DO US A FAVOR AND JUST GET OUT OF OUR LIVES?" Hanna yells as she heaves him out of the bedroom, slamming the door closed on him. On the other side of the door Plankton's antennae droop. But Plankton is eerily quiet on the other side. Hanna holds the door shut despite the silence. Karen was surprised, as she expected him to knock hard on the door.

PLUSH ONE xiii (By NeuroFabulous) Hanna looks at Karen with concern. The silence is deafening, more terrifying than the screams and chaos that just filled the room. Karen's fixed on the closed door. "Is he okay?" Hanna whispers, her voice a soft tremor. Karen's eyes fill with tears, her mind racing. "I don't know," she says, her voice a thread of fear. The quiet is a stark contrast to the tempest that was Plankton's rage. They wait, the air thick with tension, the only sounds their rapid breaths. Hanna's grip on the door handle whitens her knuckles, her screen never leaving Karen's. "I'm sorry.." But Karen's eyes are glued to the door, her heart racing. The quiet from Plankton is more unnerving than his screams. It's as if the storm has passed, but left a silence that speaks of something worse. "Is he okay?" Karen whispers. The room seems to hold its breath, waiting for an answer that doesn't come. The quiet from Plankton is like a vacuum, sucking the air from the room. Karen's hand reaches for the doorknob, her fingers trembling. "Plankton?" she whispers. She opens the door slowly. In the hallway, Plankton sits on the floor, his body rigid, his antennae still. He's not moving, not blinking. Hanna gasps. Karen's hope drops. "Plankton?" she calls, her voice a soft whisper. But there's no response, no movement. He sits on the floor, his eye vacant, his body still. Hanna gasps. "What's wrong with him?" Karen's eyes widen with understanding. "It's an absence seizure," she murmurs, her voice tight. "His first one. He had an accident which left him with a disability, and the medics said such things might happen." Hanna's eyes are filled with concern. "What do we do?" she asks, her voice shaky. Karen's mind races. "We need to make sure he's safe," she says, her voice a firm whisper. She steps into the hallway, her eyes never leaving Plankton's still form. "Don't touch him," she adds. "Jostling will do more harm than good." Plankton's tiny body is a statue, his eye unblinking. "It's okay," she whispers, though she's not sure if he can hear her. The absence seizure is a new horror, and her hand is shaking as she reaches out. "Plankton," she says, her voice a soft caress. "Come back to me." But his body remains still, his antennae unmoving. The sudden stillness, the vacant stare.. Karen crouches beside him, her hand hovering just above his shoulder. "Plankton," she whispers, her voice a gentle breeze. He doesn't flinch, his body a statue, his mind adrift in the abyss of his seizure. Karen's eyes are wet with tears, her fear a palpable presence in the air. She knows she must wait it out, let the seizure run its course. But it's hard, so hard, to watch him like this, so vulnerable. Her hand hovers over his shoulder. "Come back to me," she whispers, her voice a soft prayer. But he doesn't stir. The seconds tick by, each one an eternity. Hanna watches, her eyes filled with a mix of fear and pity. "I'll go clean up the mess.." But Karen shakes her head. "No, stay with him," she whispers, her eyes never leaving Plankton's frozen form. "I'll be right back." Hanna nods, her eyes filled with uncertainty. But she does as she's told, crouching beside Plankton. "It's okay," she whispers, mimicking Karen's earlier soothing tone. Karen rushes, her mind racing. She needs something to help him, to bring him back. Her eyes scan the closets for anything that might comfort him. Her hand closes around a small pillow, the fabric soft and familiar. With trembling hands, she carries it to Plankton, his body still unmoving. Gently, she places a pillow behind him. His eye is still unseeing, but she manages to put another plush in his arms. "Look," she says, her voice soft, "it's a new plush." But Plankton doesn't move, his body a statue. "It's okay," she whispers, her voice a thread of hope in the silence. With trembling hands, she gently tucks the plushie into his hands, hoping the familiar texture will bring him back. Plankton's body remains rigid, his eye unblinking. Karen takes one of his tiny hands in hers, her thumb tracing soothing circles on his palm. "You're okay," she whispers, her voice a soft lullaby in the silence. "It's just a seizure. It'll pass." But her words are met with only the sound of silence. "Come back to me," she murmurs, her voice a gentle caress. Plankton's body is a marble statue, cold and unyielding. The plushie in his arms is a sad reminder of the chaos that had just unfolded. Hanna's eyes are glued to his frozen form, her breaths shallow. "What now?" she whispers. Karen's eyes are a pool of determination. "Now we wait," she says, her voice a soft whisper. "And when he's ready, we'll be here." They sit beside him, their bodies tense with worry. The hallway is a cocoon of silence, the only sounds their gentle breaths. Karen's thumb never stops moving, tracing circles on his palm. It's a lifeline, a silent promise that she won't leave. Moments later, Plankton's antennae twitched. His eye slowly focused. "Plankton?" Karen's voice was a hopeful whisper. His body unlocked from its frozen state, his antennae drooping. "What happened?" he murmured, his voice groggy. Karen's eyes fill with relief, her grip on his hand loosening. "You had a seizure," she explains, her voice gentle. "What do you last remember?" Plankton blinks, his eye unfocused. "The...the whirlwind as the door slam.." Karen's grip on his hand tightens. "It's okay," she whispers, her voice a balm to his fear. "You had a bad moment, but it's over. It's getting late, and we all need some rest. I feel bad, Hanna, but we've the couch.." Hanna nods, her eyes still on Plankton. "It's okay, I'll take the couch," she says, her voice filled with a newfound gentleness. "Just make sure he's ok.." Plankton's antennae twitch, his eye darting around the hallway. His gaze lands on the new plushie, and his body relaxes slightly. "Thanks," he whispers, his voice a soft rumble. Karen nods, her screen shimmering with unshed tears. "Let's get you to bed, okay?" Plankton's body is a sigh of relief as he lets her lead him. His autistic mind is a jumble of sensory input, but Karen's steady touch is a beacon of comfort. In the bedroom, she helps him into bed, the softness of the sheets a gentle contrast to the harshness of his day. "Do you need anything?" she asks, her voice a soft whisper. Plankton shakes his head, his antennas drooping. "Just...quiet," he murmurs, his voice a weak echo of his usual determined rasp. Karen nods, her heart aching for him. She tucks the new plushie beside him, its softness a stark contrast to the turmoil he's been through. "I love you," she promises, her voice soothing. His eye meets hers, a flicker of understanding passing between them. Despite his autism, his love for her is a beacon that pierces the fog of fear. He nods, his grip on her hand a silent thank you.

PLUSH ONE xiv (By NeuroFabulous) The next morning, Hanna wakes up and goes up to the bedroom where Karen's awake, yet Plankton's still asleep. She looks at him with a mix of pity and curiosity. "How is he?" Hanna whispers, her voice tentative. Karen's eyes are filled with fatigue. "Better," she murmurs. "He's sleeping it off." Hanna nods, her gaze falling to the plushie in Plankton's arms. "What was that?" she asks, her voice a soft wonder. Karen's sigh is a symphony of exhaustion. "It's called acquired autism," she explains. "Sometimes it overwhelms him, and he does things he doesn't mean to." Hanna's eyes are filled with questions. "Does he know..." Karen nods. "He's aware," she says, her voice a gentle caress. "But it's hard for him to control. We're still learning how to navigate." Hanna looks at Plankton's peaceful form, her eyes filled with empathy. "How did it happen?" Karen's eyes cloud with pain. "An accident," she says, her voice a whisper. "He hit his head and...it changed his brain structure." Hanna's eyes widen. "I didn't know," she whispers. "I'm sorry." Karen nods, her smile sad. "It's not your fault," she says. "We're all just doing our best to adjust." Plankton stirs, his eye blinking open. He looks up at them, his gaze filled with trepidation and confusion. "Hi, Plankton," Hanna says, her voice a soft melody in the early morning silence. He stares at her, his antennae quivering. "Do you remember what happened?" Plankton's eye darts around the room, the plushie a silent sentinel beside him. He nods, his voice a tiny echo. "Plankton, bad" he murmurs. Karen's heart squeezes with pain, her hand reaching out to stroke his antennae. "It's okay," she whispers. "You had a bad day, but today is new." Plankton's eye focuses on his plushie, his grip tightening. "It's okay," Karen repeats, her voice a gentle lullaby. He nods, his antennae still. "Tired," he murmurs. Karen nods, understanding the weight of his words. "Rest," she says, her voice a soft command. Plankton's body relaxes into the bed, his eye drifting closed. Hanna watches them, her heart aching with emotion. This isn't the Plankton she heard of, the villain with a heart of greed. This is a man lost in his own mind, navigating a world that no longer makes sense. Her eyes fill with tears as she sees the tender way Karen cares for him, her patience a stark contrast to the chaos of his autism. She knows she's been wrong, that there's more to him than the stories suggest. Hanna steps closer, her voice a gentle inquiry. "How can I help?" Karen's eyes meet hers, gratitude in their depths. "Just...just be patient," she whispers. "And kind." Plankton's antennae twitch, his eye still on the plushie. Karen can see the fear lurking beneath the surface. "We'll get through this," she promises, her voice a soft melody of hope. He nods, his antennae still. "Sorry," he whispers, his voice a brittle shell. Karen's heart cracks, her hand reaching out to stroke his cheek. "You have nothing to apologize for," she says, her voice a warm embrace. Hanna watches the tender exchange, her own heart swelling with compassion. "What can we do to help?" she asks, her voice a gentle caress. Karen's eyes are filled with a quiet determination. "We need to find a way to make his world better," she says. "Less overwhelming." Hanna nods, her gaze still on Plankton. "What does he like?" she asks, her voice tentative. Karen's smile is a sad memory. "Routine," she says. "Predictability. And now plushies. They're...important." Hanna nods, her eyes studying Plankton's sleepy face. They sit in silence, each lost in thought. The morning sun peeks through the curtains, casting a soft glow over the room. In the quiet, the weight of the new reality sinks in; Plankton's autism is a journey none of them had expected. His mind, once a whirlwind of cunning and schemes, now operates with a different rhythm, a pattern of sensory needs.

PLUSH ONE xv (By NeuroFabulous) Hanna's eyes are glued to Plankton's peaceful form, aching for the fear and confusion she's seen in his eye. "What can we do for him?" she asks, her voice a gentle prodding. Karen looks up. "We need to adapt his environment," she says, her voice a soft determination. "Reduce the sensory input, establish comforts." Hanna nods, her eyes still on Plankton. "What kind of comforts?" she asks, curiosity piqued. "Oh, like the plushie? What's the plush..." Karen's voice trails off as she considers Hanna's question. "Well, yes," she says, her voice a soft explanation. "But it's more than that. It's about creating a space that's safe for him, that doesn't overstimulate his senses." Hanna nods, her eyes never leaving Plankton. "How do we do that?" she asks, her curiosity genuine. "We start by understanding his triggers," Karen says, her gaze thoughtful. "The noise, the lights, the...chaos." Hanna nods, her mind racing. "And the plushies?" she prompts, her voice a soft probe. Karen's smiling. "They're... I guess comfort objects," she explains. "For someone with autism, such items can be a lifeline." Hanna nods, her curiosity piqued. "But why a plushie?" she asks, her voice a soft wonder. Karen looks at Plankton, his body curled around the fluffy toy. "It's about softness, and predictability," she says, her voice a gentle explanation. "Plushies have a certain...comfort to them. They're consistent, familiar. And when his world is too much, it's something he can hold onto, something that won't change." Hanna nods slowly, her gaze still on the plushie. "So, it's like a...security blanket?" she asks, her voice tentative. Karen nods. "Exactly," she says, her voice filled with understanding. "But for his autism, it's even more. It's a constant in a world that ca--" But Plankton's eye snaps open, his antennae shooting up. "Karen," he whispers, his voice filled with panic. She quickly turns to him, her hand ready to offer comfort. "What is it?" He points at Hanna, his fear palpable. "Hanna," he stammers. "Hanna new. Too loud. Hanna hurt. Hanna made everything go...spinny." Hanna's eyes fill with tears, her hand reaching out to him. "I'm so—" But Plankton flinches, his body coiling away from Hanna's touch. Hanna's hand stops mid-air, her eyes wide with surprise. "It's okay, Plankton," she whispers, her voice gentle. "I'm not going t---" But he's already retreated to the corner of the room, his tiny body shaking. "No touch," he murmurs, his antennae quivering. "No loud." Karen's heart clenches. "I know," she says, her voice a gentle coax. "But Hanna is our friend, she's just trying to he-" But Plankton's panic interrupts her. "Friend?" he whispers, his voice filled with doubt. "No. Everything changed. Hanna not good." Karen's eyes are filled with pain, her heart breaking for him. "I know it's scary," she says, her voice a soft whisper. "But Ha—" "NO!" Plankton screams, his body convulsing with fear. "No Hanna!" Hanna jumps back, her eyes wide with shock. Her hand had hovered over his plushie, intending to give it a comforting pat before reaching out to give it to him. But for Plankton, that's crossing a line. "No touch," he whispers, his antennae quivering with anxiety. "MINE." Hanna's eyes widen, the plushie still in her hand. "I'm sorry," she murmurs, her voice a soft apology. Her heart aches for him, his fear a stark reminder of the distance between them now. She holds the plushie out to him, her hand shaking. "It's yours," she says, her voice a gentle offer. But Plankton's panic doesn't abate. His eye is a storm of confusion and fear. "MINE," he whispers, his antennae vibrating with tension. Hanna's hand hovers motionless, the plushie dangling between them. She looks to Karen for guidance, her eyes filled with worry. Karen's eyes are understood, her voice a soothing lullaby. "It's okay, Plankton," she coos. "Hanna just wanted to give it back." Slowly, she steps towards the trembling figure of Plankton, her movements careful not to startle him. But Plankton's gaze is fixed on Hanna, his antennae quivering with distress. "No," he murmurs, his voice a soft protest. "MINE." Hanna's eyes are filled with confusion as she looks at the plushie in her hand. She had only wanted to help, to comfort her newfound friend. But now she feels like an intruder in his world. Karen steps closer, her movements deliberately slow. "It's okay, Plankton," she whispers. "Hanna means no ha-" But Plankton's fear has turned to anger, his tiny fists balled up. "MINE!" he screams at Hanna, his voice sharp. Her hand jerks back, the plushie dropping to the floor. "I didn't mean to..." Her words are drowned out by Plankton's cries. Karen's heart aches as she watches Hanna's hurt expression. "It's okay," she says, her voice a soft caress. "We're all just trying to fi-" But Plankton's screams cut her off. His fear has escalated into rage, his tiny fists pounding the floor. "MINE!" he shouts, his voice furious. Hanna's eyes are wide with shock, her hand still hovering above the plushie. She didn't mean to take it, didn't mean to cause such distress. But Plankton's reaction is instinctive, primal. "HANNA GIVE BACK!" he shouts, his tiny body quaking with fear. Hanna's eyes are filled with sorrow as she drops to her knees, setting the plushie on the floor. "Here," she says, her voice a soft plea. "It's yo-" But Plankton's rage won't abate. He stares at the plushie, his breaths shallow. Karen moves closer, her eyes filled with pain. "Plankton, it's okay," she whispers, her voice a gentle caress. "You can have it." Slowly, Hanna retreats, her eyes on the floor. Karen's gaze follows hers, seeing the plushie lying there, a symbol of their misunderstanding. "It's okay," she repeats, her voice a soft promise. Plankton's anger subsides as he watches Karen's approach. He recognizes her comforting strides, her calming presence. Her hand extends towards his plushie, a silent offer to bridge the gap. He looks at her, his eye narrowing. But the fear is still there, the memory of the plushie's theft fresh. His antennae quiver, his body tense. Karen's hand hovers over the plushie, her movements slow and deliberate. "It's okay," she whispers. "You can have it back." Plankton's gaze flickers between the plushie and Hanna's retreating form. He reaches out tentatively, his hand trembling. As he touches the soft plush, his body relaxes, the fear ebbing away. The plushie is a talisman of comfort, a silent sentinel in his autistic world. He clutches it to his chest, his eye closed in relief.

PLUSH ONE xvi (By NeuroFabulous) Karen's eyes are a pool of understanding as she watches him, her heart aching for his pain. She knows the plushie is more than just a toy; it's a piece of his sanity in a world that's turned too loud, too bright. She moves closer, her hand hovering near his.. Plankton's antennae shoot up, his body stiffening. "No," he whispers, his voice a shaky plea. "No touch." Karen nods, her movements slow and careful. She understands his boundaries, his new sensory needs. "Okay," she says, her voice a soft promise. "I won't touch. But can I sit with you?" Plankton's antennae quiver, his eye still closed. He takes a deep breath, his tiny chest rising and falling with the effort. "Okay," he murmurs. So Karen sits down beside his shaky form. Hanna watches from the doorway, her eyes brimming with unshed tears. The plushie in his hands is a lifeline, a reminder that amidst the storm of sensory input, there is something that doesn't change, that won't hurt him. Karen's presence is another constant, a beacon of comfort. But Hanna is a variable, an unknown. Her eyes are filled with sadness, a testament to the gap that's formed between them. "I'm sorry," she whispers, her voice a soft apology. "I didn't me—" But Plankton interrupts. "MINE," he cries out, his antennae quivering with the intensity of his emotions. Karen's heart breaks for him. "It's okay," she whispers, her voice a gentle reminder of their bond. "It's your plushie." Plankton's grip tightens around the plush, his body a coil of tension. Hanna stands there, hands trembling. "I'm sorry," she repeats, her voice a soft apology in the quiet room. "I didn't kn-" But Plankton's eye opens, his gaze sharp and focused. "MINE," he says again, his voice a fierce declaration. Karen's eyes are filled with pain, her hand dropping to her side. "I know," she says, her voice a gentle coax. "But Hanna meant no harm." Hanna nods, her gaze still on the plushie. "I---" But Plankton's panic interrupts her, his voice high-pitched. "No Hanna," he whispers, his antennae quivering as he shakes his head. "No take." Hanna's eyes fill with sorrow as she backs away, her hand dropping to her side. Karen's heart clenches, seeing the hurt in Hanna's eyes. "It's okay," she murmurs, her voice a gentle coax. "We just need to give Plankton some space." Hanna nods, her eyes never leaving Plankton. "I understand," she whispers, her voice a soft apology. "But what abou–" But Plankton's panic doesn't abate, his body constricting even further. "No," he murmurs. "No more." Hanna's eyes are filled with a mix of pity and frustration. She's tired of his outbursts, of the way his autism controls their lives. Her voice cracks. "What do you want from me!" she asks, her voice a soft cry of exasperation. Plankton's antennae twitch, his eye darting around the room. He's lost in a sensory maelstrom, unable to understand her words. "Quiet," he whispers, his voice a plea. "Everything too mu-" But Hanna's frustration has reached a boiling point. "I've tried!" she says, her voice a sharp retort. "Everything's always about you and your plushies, when all we want is to he-" Her words are cut off by Plankton's wail, his body trembling. Karen's heart clenches, her eyes filled with pain. "Hanna," she says, her voice a soft admonition. "He can't help it." But Hanna's frustration spills over. "I kn-" But Plankton's wail cuts through the room, his antennae vibrating. The plushie clutched to his chest is a silent cry for help. Hanna's eyes fill with tears as she watches, her frustration boiling over. "Why can't you just...be normal!" she asks, her voice a desperate plea. Karen's gaze snaps to her, her eyes filled with a fierce protectiveness. "What do you mean by 'normal'?" she asks, her voice a soft challenge. "Plankton is who he is. His autism is part of him, not something to 'fix'." Hanna's shoulders slump, her eyes welling up with tears. "I know," she murmurs, her voice a soft apology. "I just...I miss the old Plankton you've told me about." Karen's gaze is filled with compassion. "We all do," she says. "But he's still in there, just...different now." Hanna nods, her eyes still on Plankton's trembling form. "I know," she murmurs. "I just... I don't know how to help." Karen's smile is sad, her eyes filled with understanding. "You're already helping," she says, her voice a gentle reminder. "Just by being here, by caring." Hanna looks down, her eyes misty. "But it's not enough," she whispers, gesturing to Plankton. Karen's eyes are filled with empathy. "It's a new journey," she says, her voice a soft reminder. "For all of us." Hanna nods, her gaze still on Plankton. She can see the fear and confusion in his eye, the way his antennae quiver. It's a stark contrast to the Plankton she's heard of, the one with a sharp mind and a love for Krabby Patties. Karen's voice is a gentle guidance. "We need to learn his new language," she says. "Find a way to reach him without crossing his lines." Hanna nods, her eyes still on Plankton's shaking body. "How do we do that?" she asks, her voice a soft curiosity. Karen's eyes are filled with knowledge. "It's about patience," she says. "And learning his cues." Hanna nods. "What do you mean?" Karen's eyes are filled with compassion as she explains. "His autism has changed his communication," she says, her voice a soft explanation. "It's not just words anymore; it's gestures, sounds, and expressions." Hanna's gaze flickers to Plankton's shaking antennae, his eye squeezed shut. "So, what do we do?" she asks, her voice tentative. Karen's hand is a soft touch on Hanna's arm. "We watch," she whispers. "We learn."

PLUSH ONE xix (By NeuroFabulous) Karen's eyes are on Hanna, a silent reprimand. Hanna's hand drops to her side, her screen filled with regret. "Plankton, I'm ju—" But it's too late. Plankton's body is wracked with sobs, his antennae thrashing as his fear overwhelms him. The plushie falls to the floor, abandoned in his desperate attempt to escape the horror Hanna's words have conjured. Karen's arms reach out to him. "No, no, no," she whispers. "You're safe, Plankton. Yo--" But his body is a wild storm of fear, his sobs escalating into convulsions. His antennae whip around, striking the air in a silent scream of terror. Karen's heart shatters as she watches, her own hands hovering, unsure how to comfort him without causing more harm. Hanna's eyes are wide with horror, her own sobs joining the cacophony. "I'm sorry," she whispers, her voice a desperate apology. "I di-" But Plankton's fear is a storm, his antennae a blur of panic. "Karen, make it stop," he cries, his voice a desperate plea. "Make it STOP͏!" The room seems to spin around him, his senses assaulted by Hanna's regret and his own fear. The plushie is forgotten, a discarded comfort in the face of the horror. Karen's gentle voice is a lifeline, a soft whisper in the chaos. "You're safe," she says, her voice a promise. "You're with me—" But Plankton's sobs only grow louder, his convulsions more pronounced. His tiny body is a crumpled mess on the floor, his autism a cage of panic he can't escape. "Make it stop," he cries, his voice a desperate wail. "Please, make it stop!" Hanna's eyes are filled with determination as she retrieves the plushie, carefully bringing it back to his trembling form. "Here," she whispers. "I---" But Plankton is a maelstrom, his body twitching beyond control. His eye rolls back in his head. Karen's heart races as she watches him seize, her mind racing. Her hands hover over him, knowing not to touch. Hanna's eyes are wide, tears streaming down her cheeks. "What's happening?" she sobs, her voice shaking. Karen's eyes are filled with fear as she watches his tiny body convulse, his sobs turning to silent screams. "It's a seizure," she whispers, her voice tight. Hanna's eyes widen, her hand dropping the plushie as if it's a live wire. "What do we do?" she asks, her voice high-pitched with panic. Karen's gaze is focused on Plankton's convulsing body. "Don't touch him," she says, her voice a command. "Just stay calm." She moves swiftly, getting a pillow and placing it under his head. Hanna's eyes are glued to his twitching form, her breath coming in gasps. "Is he going to be okay?" she whispers, her voice trembling. "Do we need to call..." But Karen's eyes are on Plankton, her movements swift and sure. "No," she murmurs, her voice a soft command. "It's overstimulation. We have to calm him down. It's part of his disability. An ambulance will just make it worse, by adding more noise and claustrophobia. Hospitalization will create unnecessary trauma." Hanna's eyes are wide with terror, her hands shaking as she watches Plankton's convulsions. "But he-" Karen's voice cuts through the chaos. "Trust me," she says, her gaze unwavering. "We need to calm him, not add more stress." Hanna nods, her eyes locked on Plankton's distress. "What do we do?" Karen's voice is calm. "Find a favorite blanket," she says, her eyes never leaving his twitching form. "And dim the lights, reduce the noise." Hanna's legs are a blur as she rushes to comply, grabbing the softest blanket. Her hands shake as she gently drapes it over him, his convulsions jolting against the fabric. Hanna's eyes are wide with panic as she watches, her voice a whisper. "Is he going to be okay?" Karen's gaze is unwavering on Plankton, her voice steady. "We need to stay calm," she says, her hands a gentle guide. "It's his autism, it's how he can react to stress." Hanna's eyes are on the floor, her breath shallow. "I'm sorry," she whispers, the weight of her words heavy. "I didn't kn-" But Karen's voice is steady. "It's okay," she says, her voice a calm reminder. "We're here." Her eyes are on Plankton, her body a wall of protection. "Let's help him." Together, they work to soothe him, Hanna's hands shaking as she follows Karen's calm instructions. They dim the lights, reduce the noise, and cover him in the warm embrace of his favorite blanket. Hanna gets the plushie and goes up to him. Plankton's body jerks under the blanket, his antennae still a blur of fear. Karen strokes his head gently, her eyes filled with a fierce determination to keep him safe. "Hey," Hanna says, holding out the plushie. "Do you want this?" Her voice is tentative. "Plankton, can you tell me w---" But Plankton's eye is squeezed shut, his body a writhing mess of limbs. The seizure is a silent scream, a desperate protest. Hanna's hand shakes as she holds out the plushie, her words a plea. "Plankton, it's okay," she whispers, her voice trembling. "You're not unwanted." Plankton's body continues to convulse, his antennae a blur of panic. Karen then turns to Hanna. "You need to let him breathe," Karen says, her voice a soft command. "We can only help him by letting his body do its thing. If you talk, make sure it's quiet and calm, short and sweet, and be truthful with your reassurances. Do not force anything on him." Hanna nods, tears streaming down her screen, her voice a whisper. "Okay." She watches as Karen's gentle touch soothes Plankton, his seizure beginning to subside as she rubs his back in slow, even strokes. The plushie is placed near his hand, a silent offer of comfort. The seizure gradually loosens its grip on Plankton's body, his sobs subsiding into hiccups. Plankton's eye finds Karen's, a silent plea for reassurance. Her voice is a soft caress. "It's okay," Karen whispers. "You're okay." Plankton's antennae twitch, his body slowly calming. He clutches the plushie, his eye on Karen. "Home," he whispers, his voice a desperate plea. "Yes," Karen says. "We're home, in our bedroom." Plankton's antennae still, his gaze searching for the familiar. Hanna backs away, her eyes filled with regret. Karen notices and nods slightly, a silent acknowledgment of Hanna's apology. His body relaxes further, his breathing slowing. The plushie is a warm comfort, but it's Karen's voice that holds his world together. "You're safe, Plankton," she whispers. "You're home." Hanna watches from her distance, her eyes filled with regret. Plankton's antennae twitch, his gaze shifting to Hanna. Her eyes are filled with remorse, a silent apology that he can't quite decode. His mind is a jumble of fears and questions. "Hanna," he whispers, his voice a tremble. "I-I'm not a b-b-baby? Plankton stays living..." Hanna's face crumples, her sobs joining his. "Oh, Plankton," she whispers. "You're not a baby, you're Plankton. And you're not unwanted. I'm so sorry. I didn't mean it." Karen's eyes are filled with compassion as she looks at Hanna, knowing the depth of her regret. "It's okay," she says softly. "It's new for all of us." She turns back to Plankton, her voice a gentle whisper. "You're safe here. We're all learning." Plankton's antennae twitch, his eye focusing on Hanna's shaking form. His voice is a question. "Hanna?" Her voice cracks as she whispers back, "I'm here." Her hand reaches out tentatively, still afraid to touch him. "I'm so sorry for what I said." Plankton's antennae quiver, his gaze flickering to her hand. "It's okay," he murmurs, his voice a shaky echo. "But...but it's not okay," he adds, his eye filling with confusion. Hanna's hand hovers, uncertain. "What do you mean?" she asks, her voice a tremulous thread. Plankton's gaze is on the plushie, his voice a whispered confession. "I'm not the same," he says, his words a soft acknowledgment. "I'm...different." Hanna's hand stops, her eyes filled with understanding. "You're still Plankton," she says, her voice gentle. "You're still the same person, yet you've some new aspects.." Plankton's antennae still, his eye searching hers. "Different," he whispers, his voice filled with the weight of his new reality. Hanna nods, her hand still outstretched. "But that doesn't make you less important," she says, her voice a soft promise. "Or less loved." Plankton's antennae twitch, his gaze flickering between his plushie and Hanna's hand. He reaches out slowly, his hand trembling, and takes her hand, holding it for a moment before he takes his hand back. Hanna's eyes are wet with relief, her voice a whisper. "Thank you," she says. Plankton's antennae twitch in acknowledgment, his gaze still on the plushie. "It's...it's just...I'm still me," he says, his voice shaky. "But, things are... different, now." Hanna nods, her eyes filled with a newfound understanding. "I know," she whispers. Her hand moves towards him again, this time with more confidence. Plankton's antennae quiver, his gaze shifting from the plushie to Hanna's hand. "I know," Hanna says, her voice a gentle whisper. "But you're still Plankton, and we're here for you." Her hand moves closer, a silent offer of friendship. Plankton's antennae twitch, his eye flickering to her hand, then back to the plushie. "Home," he whispers again, his voice a tremble. Hanna nods, her eyes filled with a newfound respect for the complexity of his needs. "Home," she repeats, her voice a gentle echo. "You're home with your wife Karen. Would you like to hold my hand?" Plankton's antennae still, his gaze shifting to Karen. She nods, her eyes filled with a silent understanding. He reaches out tentatively, his tiny hand grasping Hanna's finger briefly before retreating. It's a small gesture, but it's a start. Hanna's eyes widen with hope, her voice a whisper. "Thank you," she says, her hand hovering in the air.

PLUSH ONE xx (By NeuroFabulous) Plankton's antennae twitch in a way that seems almost thoughtful. "Hanna," he says, his voice tentative. "Hanna, Karen's friend, Karen's friend's okay." Her eyes fill with hope at his words, her hand still hovering. "Thank you," she whispers, her voice a gentle breeze. "May I sit with you, or..." But Plankton's gaze is fixed on the plushie. "Not close," he murmurs, his voice a soft refusal. "Some space, if Hanna sit with space." Hanna nods, her heart racing as she moves to the floor near him, maintaining a respectful distance. Karen's eyes never leave his, her voice a soft guide. "Good job, Plankton," she whispers. "You're doing so well." He starts to rock slightly, in a pattern that seems almost rhythmic. It's a new behavior, one Karen recognizes as stimming. She's heard about it, how it can mean those with autism self-soothe and process the world around them. His eye is fixed on the plushie, his hand moving on it in small, repetitive motions. Hanna watches Plankton's soft rocking with a mix of fascination and fear. "What's happening?" she asks, her voice barely above a murmur. "It's called stimming," Karen whispers, her voice a gentle explanation. "It's how he's processing everything right now. It's like his brain's way of saying, 'I'm okay, I can handle this.'" Hanna's eyes are wide with interest as she watches, her fear slowly giving way to curiosity. "Is it...good?" she asks, her voice tentative. Karen nods, her eyes never leaving Plankton's rhythmic motion. "It's a way for his brain to calm down," she whispers. "It's like a security blanket for his nervous system." Hanna's gaze is still on him, her curiosity overcoming her fear. "Can I do anything?" she asks, her voice a soft offer of help. Karen nods. "You can talk to him, keep it calm and soothing." Her eyes meet Hanna's, her expression filled with compassion. "Use simple words, and let him know you're here." Hanna's voice is soft. "Plankton," she says, her tone gentle. "It's okay to rock, it's okay to feel better." Plankton's antennae twitch, his eye flicking towards her briefly before returning to his plushie. The rocking continues, a gentle sway that seems to calm the storm of his thoughts. "You're safe, Plankton," Hanna whispers, her voice a soothing lullaby. "We're right here." His antennae twitch, his rocking slowing as he takes in her words. His hand still strokes the plushie, his body slowly calming. Hanna watches, her voice a soft echo. "Plankton, I'm sorry," she says, her eyes filled with sincerity. "I didn't understand." Plankton's antennae twitch, his rocking pausing. He looks at her, his gaze uncertain. Plankton's eye blinks slowly, his antennae still. "Hanna talk quiet," he whispers. "It's okay." Her voice is gentle. "I will, I'm sorry," she promises, her eyes never leaving his. Karen watches with a mix of pride and fear, her heart swelling at Hanna's effort to understand. She nods encouragingly, her eyes telling Hanna to keep it up. "Good job, Plankton," Hanna whispers, mimicking Karen's calm tone. "You're doing so well." She takes a deep breath, her hands folded in her lap, her gaze steady on him. "Is there anything you'd like? Something that would make you feel more comfortable? Or w---" "Too much," he murmurs, his voice a whispered plea. "Questions, too much. Not fast, only each at a time." Hanna nods, her heart racing. "Okay," she says, her voice gentle. "What can I do with you right now?" Plankton's antennae twitch, his gaze on the plushie. "Reading?" he asks, his voice a whispered hope. "Book makes good feeling." Hanna's eyes light up, relieved to have a task. "Of course," she says, her voice a soft promise. She moves to the bookshelf, her eyes scanning the titles. "Which one, Plankton?" Plankton's antennae twitch, his voice a soft whisper. "The physics one," he says, his gaze still on the plushie. Hanna's eyes find the book, a faded blue spine among the colorful array. Her eyes widen with surprise, but she doesn't question it. Instead, she opens the book to the first page, her voice a calm narration. "Alright," she says, her tone soothing. "Let's start with the intro..." But Plankton's antennae quiver with impatience. "No, no," he whispers, his voice urgent. "Index. Index is good." Hanna's brow furrows, but she nods, understanding. She opens the book to the back, her eyes scanning the pages. "Index," she repeats, her voice a soft question. Plankton's antennae still, his gaze on her. "Yes," he whispers, his voice a sigh of relief. "Words, titles with their page numbers." Hanna nods, her eyes scanning the dense pages of the index. "Here," she says, her voice a soft guidance. "Let's look at the list of topics together." Plankton's antennae quiver with anticipation, his gaze flicking from Hanna to the book and back again. "Good," he whispers. "Good, good, good." Hanna's eyes scan the index, her voice calm and measured as she reads off the headings. "Wave particles," she says, her voice a gentle melody. "Quantum mechanics, gravity, light refraction..." "No; bad Hanna. Include page numbers!" He interrupts her. Her eyes widen slightly, but she nods, her voice calm. "I'm sorry," she whispers, her finger tracing the words. "Let's start again." She reads out the first entry, her voice a soft lullaby. "Wave particles, pages 47-52." Plankton's antennas twitch with interest, his eye darting to the book. "Is that okay?" she asks, her eyes searching his for approval. He nods eagerly. "Good," she says, her voice a gentle affirmation. "Wave particles, pages 47-52." She continues, her finger gliding over the small print. "Quantum mechanics, pages 104-130." Plankton's antennae dance with excitement, his eye locked on her movements. "More," he whispers, his voice a plea for knowledge. Hanna's voice is a steady rhythm as she reads through the index. "Electromagnetism, pages 173-208," she says, her voice a gentle guide. Plankton's rocking swayed in time with her words, his body still, his breathing even. He's found comfort in the orderly list, the predictability of each topic and its corresponding pages. It's a small victory, but in the quiet aftermath of his seizure, it feels like a monumental one. Hanna's voice is a soft steady beat, her eyes never leaving his. "Gravity, pages 243-270," she reads, each entry a stepping stone back to the person he knows himself to be. Plankton's eye flutters closed, the rocking slowing down. His breathing evens out. "Good," he murmurs, his voice quiet. "Good, good." Hanna reads on. "Relativity, pages 315-360," she whispers, as she can feel his tension ease with each page number she says. "Dark matter," she continues, "pages 402-430." His antennae twitch in agreement, his body relaxing further into the comfort of the blanket. He leans closer to Hanna. "Good," he whispers, his voice a soft echo. "More." Hanna nods, her eyes flickering between the index and Plankton. "Supernovae," she says, her voice a gentle guide. "Pages 512-540." Plankton relaxes even further. His antennae twitch, his eye half-closed. "Good," he whispers. "Good book." Her voice is a soft narration, her finger tracing the words. "Quantum entanglement, pages 623-650." Plankton's body relaxes fully, the plushie still a warm comfort in his hand as his head tilts to Hanna's shoulder. Her voice is a gentle whisper. "Time dilation, pages 701-730." Plankton's antennae still, his breathing now deepening into sleep. Hanna keeps reading. "Particle physics, pages 801-830," she continues. Karen watches from the doorway, her heart swelling with love. This is the Plankton she knows, the one who finds comfort in the ordered chaos of the universe. She smiles at Hanna, her eyes filled with a quiet pride. Hanna continues. "String th-" But she's cut off by a soft snore from Plankton's relaxed form. His antennae are still, his grip on the plushie loose. She looks up, her eyes meeting Karen's. Surprise fills her gaze. "Is he...asleep?" she asks, her voice a whisper. Karen nods, a small smile touching her lips. "Looks like it," she whispers. "Good job, Hanna." Hanna's heart races, his head heavy on her shoulder. Plankton's sleep is deep, his body a testament to the peace he's found in the comfort of the book and their calm voices. Karen approaches them, her movements slow and deliberate, not wanting to disturb him. Hanna looks up, her eyes questioning. "What do we do now?" she whispers, her voice a soft concern, his tiny hand loosely clutching the plushie. "We need to get him to bed," Karen says, her voice a gentle command. "But we have to be careful not to wake him." Hanna nods, her movements mirroring Karen's calmness. They stand slowly, their eyes on Plankton's peaceful face. "Ready?" Karen whispers, and together, they lift him by his blanket-cocooned form, his head resting on Hanna's shoulder. They move as one, a silent ballet of care and precision. Each step is calculated, each shift of weight measured. Plankton's antennae twitch slightly in his sleep, but he remains oblivious to the world around him, even when the plushie falls out of his grasp. Hanna gasps. "Got it," she whispers. Karen nods, a silent thanks. They continue the delicate transfer, the plushie tucked between his body and the softness of the blanket. They lay him down, the plushie nestled under his arm, his body still relaxed in sleep. Hanna helps tuck him in, her movements careful not to disturb the fragile peace. Karen nods, her eyes on Plankton's sleeping form. "Good," she whispers. "Just like that." His antennae twitch slightly, a soft snore escaping him. Hanna's hands are steady as she slides the plushie under his arm, her movements gentle and precise. They stand back, their breaths held, watching as Plankton's chest rises and falls in a steady rhythm. Karen's hand reaches out to Hanna's, a silent gesture of solidarity. They've managed this together, his peace a testament to their unity.

＃ＫｎｅｅＳｕｒｇｅｒｙ pt. 13 They play for a few minutes in silence, the sound of slapping cards the only noise in the room. Hanna's cheerfulness begins to grate on Plankton's nerves, his antennae twitching with each of her exclamations of "Oh!" and "Wow!" every time she wins a round. Karen watches the exchange, her eyes flickering between them. "Plankton," she says softly, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Why don't we take a break?" Plankton sighs, his antennae drooping. "I'm fine," he mutters. Hanna's smile doesn't falter. "It's okay if you need to—" He cuts her off with a glare. "I said I'm fine," he snaps, his voice tight. Karen squeezes his shoulder, her gaze firm. "Plankton," she says, her voice soft but firm. "Take a moment. We're all trying to make this work." Plankton huffs, his antennae stiffening. He knows she's right, but the cast on his leg is a constant reminder of his weakness, and Hanna's cheeriness is grating on his nerves. He takes a deep breath, trying to rein in his frustration. "Okay," he says through gritted teeth. "A break." Hanna's smile doesn't waver. "Great!" she says. "How abo---" Her words are cut off as Plankton swings his cast-covered leg around, wincing slightly as he does so. Hanna watches him, her concern etched on her face. "Careful," she warns gently. "I've got it," Plankton snaps, his pride bruised. He hobbles into his bedroom, his crutches echoing against the tiles. Karen sighs heavily, her eyes following him. "I'm sorry," Hanna says quickly. "I didn't mean to overstep." Karen shakes her head. "No, it's okay," she says. "He's just...going through a tough time." Hanna nods, her eyes filled with empathy. "I can see that," she says. "But he's lucky to have you." Karen smiles sadly. "Thanks, Hanna." They sit in silence for a moment before Karen stands up. "I'll go check on him," she says, leaving the living room. In the bedroom, Plankton is lying on the bed, his crutches leaning against the wall. He looks up as Karen enters, his expression unreadable. "You okay?" she asks, her voice gentle. Plankton shrugs. "I'm fine," he says, his voice clipped. Karen sighs. "You know, you don't have to be tough all the time," she says, sitting beside him. "We're all here to support you." Plankton turns his head to look at her, his single eye studying her face. "I know," he says, his voice softer. "It's just...embarrassing." Karen nods, her hand resting on his arm. "But you're not weak for needing help. It won't be forever." Plankton's eye blinks slowly, his antennae drooping. "I know, but it's just so...humiliating." Karen's grip on his arm tightens. "You're not weak, Plankton," she says firmly. "You're strong. You're going through a tough time, and that's okay." He looks away, his antennae waving slightly. "It's just...I don't like feeling so...so..." He struggles to find the words. "Vulnerable," she fills in gently. He nods, his eye closing. "Exactly." Karen's hand strokes his arm. "We all have our moments," she says. "It's okay to not be okay." Plankton's eye remains closed, his expression thoughtful. "Thanks," he mumbles, his antennae lifting slightly. They sit in companionable silence for a moment before Plankton sighs. "I'm just tired," he says, his voice weary. "Can we just...rest?" Karen nods, her face gentle. "Of course," she says. "Why don't you take a nap? I'll tell Hanna we're taking a break." She stands and leans over to kiss his forehead. "You're doing better than you think," she whispers. Plankton's antennae twitch. "Thanks," he murmurs, his voice soft. He watches as she leaves the room, his mind racing with thoughts. He's not used to feeling so... dependent. But he knows Karen's right. He needs to accept the help and move forward. With a sigh, he closes his eye and tries to comfortable, the cast on his leg feeling like a lead weight. The house is quiet, only the faint hum of the refrigerator breaking the silence. Plankton's mind wanders, thinking about his recovery. He's always been the one to push through, to never let anything hold him back. But this... this was different. He couldn't fight or scheme his way out of a broken leg. After a few moments of contemplation, his eye snaps open. The door creaks slightly as it opens. Hanna pokes her head in, her smile slightly more tentative than before. "Is it okay if I come in?" she asks softly. Plankton nods, his antennae still. "What is it?" Her cheeks flush slightly. "I just wanted to check on you," she says, stepping into the room. "And to...apologize." "For what?" he asks, his voice gruff. Hanna takes a deep breath. "I'm sorry if I was too enthusiastic," she says, her eyes meeting his. "I just wanted to m-" "Make me feel better?" Plankton finishes for her, his tone sarcastic. Hanna swallows, her smile slightly wobbly. "I guess," she admits. "I just didn't know how else t---" Her words are interrupted by a soft knock on the doorframe. They both look up to see SpongeBob peering in, his face etched with concern. "Hey, buddy," he says gently. "How are you holding up?" Plankton's antennae perk up slightly. "I'm fine," he says. Sponge Bob nods. "Well, if you need anything, just holler," he says before leaving. Hanna looks at Plankton, her eyes filled with concern. "I'm sorry," she repeats. "I di-" "Don't," Plankton says, cutting her off. Her smile falters. "What?" "You're being a...jerk." He answers her. Hanna's eyes widen in surprise. "I'm sorry," she stammers. "I didn't mean to be...I just want to make sure yo--" "You're annoying, Hanna! I have enough to deal with without you pestering me," Plankton snaps, his antennae quivering with agitation. Hanna's smile fades, and she takes a step back, her eyes welling with hurt. "I'm sorry," she says again. "I-I-I-I…" But Plankton's not done. "You're just nosy." Hanna's eyes fill with tears, but she fights them back. "I'm just trying to be your friend," she says, her voice shaking. "Get out! I don't need you, and it's none of your business!" Plankton's voice is sharp, his antennae stiff with anger. Hanna's smile crumbles. "Plankton, I just—" she starts, but he interrupts again. "What? Just what, Hanna? You wanna just stick around and gawk at me, or are you gonna go?" His voice is bitter, and she can see the frustration boiling behind his eye. Her smile is completely gone now, replaced by a look of sadness. "You know, Plankton," she says, her voice shaky, "you don't have to—" "Don't tell me what I have to do!" Plankton yells, his small frame trembling. "I know what I need, and it's not you poking your nose into my business!" Hanna's hands clench into fists at her sides. "I'm not poking my nose in," she says, her voice strained. "I'm just trying to help!" Her words are met with silence. Plankton's eye narrows, his antennae quivering with rage. "You think you're helping?" he spits. "You're not. You're just making everything worse. Why can't you just leave me alone?" Hanna's lip quivers, but she squares her shoulders. "I'm not going anywhere," she says firmly. "I care abou–" "You don't care about me," Plankton snaps. "You just want to know what happened so you can be the hero that 'saved' me." His eye glares at her, his antennae vibrating with accusation. "Well, my life doesn't involve you, Hanna. So just stay out of it!" Hanna's eyes brim with tears, but she refuses to let them fall. "I do care," she whispers. "And I'm not trying to be a her-" But Plankton's interrupted her again. "You don't know anything about me," he says, his voice cold. "You're just here because Karen let you, but I don't want you here." Hanna's cheeks flush with hurt. "Plankton, I'm trying to be a good friend, but you're just pushing me aw-" "I don't need a friend like you," Plankton says, his voice hard. "Now get out." Hanna's eyes fill with tears, but she nods, turning to leave. He slams the bedroom door behind her. In the living room Karen looks up to see her, her eyes red and puffy from crying. "Hanna?"

PLUSH ONE x (By NeuroFabulous) Plankton's sleep is deep, his body at rest, but starts stirring when Karen's phone dings with a text. She jumps, fearing the sound might disturb him. Carefully, she pulls her hand from his, her eyes never leaving his face. The plushie remains under his arm, his antennae twitching slightly with his dreams. Karen reads the text from Hanna, her friend. Her house is under construction and needs a place to stay! But Hanna and Plankton never met each other.. She thinks for a moment, weighing her options. Plankton's autism is still new, and she's not sure how he'll react to a stranger in their space. But Hanna's in need, and Karen can't ignore that. Gently, she leans over and kisses his antennae. "I'll be right back," she whispers to his sleeping form. She goes out front, texting Hanna to meet her in the front yard. Her mind races as she sees Hanna. "Hey, Karen! Sorry about the short notice." Hanna says. "It's ok, just follow me inside," Karen says, opening the front door and closing it behind them. And yet Karen's mind is racing. How will Plankton react? They enter the bed room, where Plankton still sleeps, oblivious to their guest. Karen takes a deep breath. "Hanna, this is Plankton. He's been through a lot today." Hanna nods, her eyes widening at the sight of the tiny creature. "Hi," she says softly. Plankton's antennae twitch, and his eye opens slowly. His gaze flits between Karen and Hanna, his body tense. "It's okay," Karen whispers, her voice a gentle breeze. "This is Hanna. She's a friend." Hanna nods, her smile kind. "Hi, Plankton," she says, her voice soft. "You're Karen's husband right? The one who inven-" But before she can finish, Plankton's body jerks upright, his antennae quivering. "NO!" he shouts, the word cutting through the quiet with panic. Karen's mind races, her eyes snapping to him. "It's okay," she repeats, her voice soothing. "This is Hanna. She's a friend." Plankton's gaze flicks between them, his antennae a blur of movement. "Friend?" he asks, his voice tight with fear. Karen nods. "Yes, a friend," she says firmly. "We're safe here." Hanna nods. "Hi there Plank..." But the sound of her voice sends Plankton into a spiral of anxiety. His eye widens, his body stiffens. Karen's knowing she's made a mistake. The sudden presence of a stranger has disrupted his carefully controlled environment. "Shh," she whispers, moving closer, her movements slow and deliberate. "It's ok. This is Hanna, she's here to stay for a bit." Plankton's antennae twitch frantically, his eye darting between Karen and the new presence in the room. "Hanna?" he echoes, his voice filled with uncertainty. Hanna nods, her smile gentle. "That's right," she says softly before noticing the plushie on the floor. "Ah, is that a plushie?" Plankton's antennae stop moving, his gaze locked on Hanna's hand as it reaches for the toy. "MINE," he says firmly. Hanna's hand freezes, her screen a silent question as she picked it up. Plankton's eye tracks the movement, his body tense. He doesn't like change, his autism demanding predictability and routine. Karen knows what to do. "It's okay," she says, her voice low and reassuring. "Hanna's just lo…" But Plankton's autism doesn't allow for this. He snatches the plushie from Hanna's hand, his body rigid. "MINE!" he shouts sharply. This was a mistake, introducing change so suddenly into his life. "I'm sorry," Hanna says, her hand dropping to her side. "I didn't kn-" But Plankton's fear has turned to anger. "NO!" he shouts, his antennae flaring. "MINE!" Karen's eyes widen, his outburst echoing in the room. Her mind is racing to find the right words, the right way to comfort him. She knows his autism has made him hyper-aware of his possessions. "It's okay, Plankton," she says, her voice a calm river. "Hanna didn't mean to take it. It's still yours." His antennae slowly retract, his body loosening. He looks at Karen, his eye searching for truth.

NEW REALITY viii (Autistic author) "I don't understand," she says, her voice filled with distress. Plankton's hand clenches, his body vibrating with tension. "Numbers," he repeats, his voice edging on a scream. "They make quiet." Hanna's eyes widen, her smile fading to a look of horror. "But Plankton," she says, her voice shaking, "it's just a clock." But her words are like fuel on the fire of his distress. He steps closer to the clock, his hand outstretched as if to will it to silence. "Numbers," he whispers, his voice a plea. "They make quiet." Hanna's eyes fill with sympathy, but her words only worsen his agitation. "Plankton, it's just a clock," she says, reaching out to touch him. Karen's heart hammers in her chest as she sees his body tense even further. "Hanna, don't," she warns, her voice tight. "Please don't touch him right now." But Hanna doesn't hear her, her own voice rising with frustration. "It's just a clock, Plankton," she repeats, her hand covering his shoulder. "Nothing's going to hurt you.." The touch sends him spiraling, his body convulsing with overstimulation. "No touch!" he screams, his hand slapping at her arm, his face a mask of fear and anger. But Plankton's outburst has ignited something in Hanna, a spark of anger. "Why can't you just be normal?" she snaps, her voice echoing through the tense room. Karen's heart breaks as Plankton's eye goes wide, his body jerking away from her. "Hanna, please," she says, her voice tight with pain. But Hanna's words keep coming, a barrage of misunderstanding. "You can't just ignore us," she says, her voice rising. "You have to interact with the world." Plankton's body recoils, his skin seemingly vibrating with each of her words. "Interact," he echoes, his voice strained. Karen's heart is in her throat. "Hanna, please," she says, her voice tight with pain. "You're not helping." But Hanna's eyes are glassy with frustration. "How can I help if he won't even look at me?" she asks, ignoring the desperation in Plankton's gaze as she holds his arms tightly. Karen's eyes plead with her, but Hanna's grip doesn't loosen. "Let go," Plankton whimpers, his voice tight with tension. Hanna's smile is forced, her grip unyielding. "Look at me, Plankton," she says, her voice laced with irritation. "You can't just..." But her words cut him like knives. "Look away," he murmurs, his voice strained, his body begging for the pressure to ease. Hanna's smile falters, her grip tightening. "Why can't you just look at me?" she asks, her voice edged with annoyance. Plankton's breath hitches, his antennae drooping. "Can't," he whispers, his gaze flickering between her and Karen. Hanna's eyes narrow, her grip on his arms tightening. "You can," she insists, her voice firm. "Just..." But Plankton's whimpers grow louder, his body shaking with the effort to pull away. Hanna's smile fades, her grip tightening in frustration. "Why can't you just be like everyone else?" she asks, her tone no longer gentle. Plankton's whimpers become sobs, his body shaking with the effort to break free. Karen's eyes are wet with unshed tears as she watches the scene unfold, her heart breaking for him. Hanna's grip remains firm, her expression a mix of confusion and annoyance. "Why are you doing this?" she demands, her voice sharp. "You're just being difficult." Plankton's sobs grow more desperate, his body twisting in her grasp. "Let go," he whispers, his voice a strained plea. Hanna's eyes flash with irritation. "Why ca--" Her words are cut off by Karen's firm voice. "Hanna, please," she says, stepping between them. "You're upsetting him." But Hanna's confusion turns to anger. "How can I not be upset?" she retorts, her grip on Plankton's arms tightening. "He won't even..." Her words are cut off by Karen's firm voice. "Please, Hanna," she says, her eyes pleading. "You don't understand." Suddenly, Plankton's legs buckle, his body going slack as Hanna finally releases his arms. He crumples to the floor. He's retreating, Karen realizes, her heart racing. He's retreating into himself. Karen's eyes fill with fear as she watches him, his sobs subsiding into quiet whimpers. "Plankton," she whispers, her voice a prayer. Hanna's face falls, her anger replaced with shock. "What's wrong with him?" she asks, her voice trembling. Karen's eyes are wet with unshed tears as she crouches beside him. "It's a condition," she says, her voice tight with frustration. "He needs time and space to process everything." Hanna's face crumples, her hands going to her mouth. "I didn't know," she whispers, her eyes wide with regret. "I'm sorry." Karen nods, her gaze never leaving Plankton's huddled form. "It's not your fault," she says, her voice thick with emotion. "But we all have to learn." Hanna nods, her eyes brimming with tears. Karen wraps her arms around Plankton, her touch gentle. "It's okay," she murmurs. "I'm here." He trembles against her, sobbing. Hanna stands there, apology etched in every line of her face. "What can I do?" she whispers. Karen looks up, her eyes wet. "Just give us a moment," she says, her voice a gentle command. Hanna nods, backing away slowly, her eyes on Plankton. "Okay," she murmurs, the weight of her words heavy in the silent room. Karen holds Plankton tightly, his body a trembling mass of emotion. "It's okay," she whispers, her voice a soothing balm. "You're safe." He nests his head into her shoulder, his whimpers softening to quiet sobs. The room feels thick with their shared pain, the air charged with the tension of misunderstanding. Hanna's eyes dart around, looking for anything that might soothe him. Karen's gaze meets hers, a silent plea for understanding. "It's called autism," Karen says softly, her voice a gentle explanation. Hanna's eyes widen, her face a canvas of realization. "Oh," she whispers, the word a soft exhalation of breath. Karen nods, her gaze never leaving Plankton's tear-stained face. "It's a spectrum," she says, her voice calm and steady. "And he's on a part of it that's very sensitive to stimulation." Hanna nods slowly, her understanding growing. "I'm sorry," she says, her voice full of regret. "I didn't know." Karen's grip tightens around Plankton's shoulders. "It's okay," she murmurs. "We're all still learning." Hanna nods, her eyes never leaving Plankton's trembling form. "I'll go," she says, her voice small. "I didn't mean..." Karen nods, her gaze steady. "Thank you," she whispers. "We can talk soon." Hanna nods, her eyes filled with sadness. "Of course," she says, turning to leave. The door clicks shut behind her, leaving Karen and Plankton in the heavy silence. Karen's arms remain around him, her body a protective cocoon against the harshness of the world. Plankton's sobs slowly ease into quiet sniffs, his body still trembling in her embrace. Her heart aches for the pain he's feeling, the fear that Hanna's misunderstanding has brought to the surface. "I'm sorry," she whispers to him, her voice shaking. Plankton's trembles begin to subside, his breathing evening out. He pulls back, his eye searching hers. "No," he murmurs, his voice hoarse from crying. "Not at fault." Karen's eyes fill with relief, her grip on him loosening slightly. "It's okay," she says, her voice a gentle caress. "We just need to find ways to help you." Plankton nods, his eye fluttering shut. Karen's mind races with thoughts of what more she can do, what she can say to make him feel safe. "We'll get through this," she says, her voice a promise. "Together." Plankton's eye opens, his gaze meeting hers. "Together," he echoes, his voice a whisper. Karen's heart swells with love for him, her eyes shimmering with determination. "We'll find what works," she says, her voice firm. Plankton nods, his gaze dropping to the floor. "Thanks," he murmurs, his voice barely audible. "Tired.." Karen's heart breaks at the exhaustion etched into his features. "I got you, you can rest," she says, her voice a gentle whisper. They move to the couch, Plankton's body curling into her side. She wraps the weighted blanket around him, still within their embrace. His breathing slows, his body relaxing against hers. The whirring fan above offers a steady rhythm, a lullaby for his troubled mind. Karen's hand strokes his back in gentle circles, her thumb tracing patterns that seem to soothe his nerves. The fan's steady whir fills the room, a calming symphony that lulls Plankton's racing thoughts to a crawl. Karen's thumb moves in soothing circles on his back, each pass sending a ripple of comfort through him. Plankton's breathing evens, his body slack against hers. The fan's steady hum is a lullaby in the quiet room, a metronome for his racing thoughts. Karen's hand continues its soothing dance across his back, his eye finally closing. The room is a cocoon of silence, the fan's whisper the only sound breaking the stillness. Plankton's breathing slows, his body melts into Karen's embrace. Her hand continues its gentle caress, a metronome of comfort as he finally surrenders to sleep.

JUST A TOUCH iv (Autistic author) The next day, Karen woke up to a meticulously organized kitchen. Plankton was already up, his movements sharp and focused as he arranged the cutlery in the drawer. "Good morning, Plankton," she said, her voice tentative. He looked up, his expression neutral. "Good morning, Karen," he replied, his voice monotone. Her heart squeezed. This was not the man who used to greet her with a cheeky smile and a sigh every morning. But she pushed the sorrow aside and focused on the task at hand: making breakfast. As she began to prep the meal, Plankton hovered nearby, his antennae twitching. "Would you like to help me?" she asked, holding out a spatula. He took it with both hands, his movements mechanical as he followed her instructions to the letter. The sizzle of the chum on the pan seemed to calm him, his gaze flicking between her face and the food. Plankton's meticulousness extended to their breakfast. Every ingredient measured to the exact milliliter, every step in the recipe followed without deviation. Karen watched him, a mix of amazement and sadness swirling inside her. As they sat down to eat, Karen noticed his eye darting between his plate and the clock. "Is something wrong?" she asked, trying to keep her voice light. Plankton's gaze snapped to hers, his antennae still. "Must eat at 7:00," he said, his voice tight. "It's okay, we're a little late," she said, trying to soothe him. "But we're together, and that's what matters." Plankton took a bite of his perfectly arranged breakfast, his eye not leaving the clock. "Seven minutes, thirty-four seconds until 7:00," he murmured. Karen's throat tightened, but she forced a smile. "We'll be done before then," she assured him. The meal was finished in silence, Plankton's precision contrasting with Karen's clumsy attempts to match his rhythm. As they cleared the table, his movements were a dance of order and control, while hers were stilted, filled with nervous glances. In the living room, Plankton moved to his favorite chair, his eye immediately drawn to the bookshelf. His gaze flitted over the books. Karen watched, her heart heavy with the weight of their new reality. The doctor had suggested that engaging in familiar activities could help with the transition. Hoping to ease the tension, she offered, "Would you like a work book?" Plankton nodded, his antennae still. Karen retrieved one from his collection, handing it to him with care. He took it in his hands. It was clear that his intellect had not been diminished, but rather had been reshaped by his condition. Moments later, Hanna came in. She knows Karen's married, but she doesn't know any thing else about Plankton. Hanna's smile was wide and welcoming as she saw the two of them. "Hi, I'm Karen's friend Hanna," she said, extending a hand. Plankton looked at it and then went back to his book. Karen stepped in, her voice soft. "Plankton, this is Hanna," she said, gesturing between them. "Hanna, this is my husband, Plankton." Hanna's smile faltered slightly, noticing the distance in Plankton's gaze. "Hi, Plankton," Hanna said, her tone gentle. "It's nice to meet you." Plankton's antennae twitched, his gaze shifting to her briefly before returning to the book. Karen watched the interaction, her heart racing. How would Hanna react to him? Will Plankton like her? Would she still want to be friends with her? Hanna looked from Karen to Plankton and back, her smile slightly puzzled. "Is he okay?" she asked quietly. Karen nodded. "He's just focused" she said, her voice hitching. "I'll go fix us up some chumbalaya." After Karen left, Hanna sat right up next to Plankton. "Hi, Plankton," she said again. He glanced at her, then back at his book. She waited, leaning forward slightly. Finally, he spoke without looking up. "Hello, Hanna. Karen's friend. Good." It was a statement, not a question or a greeting. Her curiosity was piqued by this odd behavior. Hanna watched as Plankton continued to study the book, his tiny hands flipping pages with a quickness she hadn't seen before. He was like a different creature, his movements calculated. She knew something was off, but she wasn't sure what. So she decides to try getting him to interact. "What are you reading?" she asked, leaning closer. Plankton's antennae shot up. "It's a book," he replied, his voice flat. Hanna laughed, mistaking his bluntness for shyness. "I know that," she said, her tone playful as she leaned closer. "But what's it about?" Plankton's antennae twitched, his eye narrowing slightly. "It's about... puzzles?" Hanna's eyes widened. "Puzzles?" she repeated, leaning in even closer. Her proximity was making him uncomfortable, his body stiffening like a board. "What kind of puzzles?" Plankton's gaze darted to her before returning to the book. "Word's," he said, his voice sharp as he focused on the page. The way he said it was a clear message to back off, but Hanna was oblivious to the cues. "Oh, words puzzles!" she exclaimed, clapping her hands together. "I love those! Can I see?" Without waiting for an answer, she reached for the book, brushing against his hand. Plankton flinched, his antennae drooping. Hanna's cheerfulness didn't wane as she flipped through the pages, exclaiming over the puzzles. "This looks like FUN!" she said, not taking note of how Plankton's body was taut with tension. "It's a good book," Plankton said, his voice devoid of emotion. He was trying to be polite, but the sensory overload was building inside him. The way she talked, the way she moved, the sound of her voice—it was all too much. Hanna, still beaming, turned the page and pointed at a particularly complex puzzle. "Look at this one! Can you do it?" she challenged, her finger tapping the page impatiently. Plankton's eye darted to the puzzle, his mind racing. He didn't want to disappoint but the pressure was too intense. He can't think! "Sure," he stuttered, his voice small. Hanna clapped her hands, excitedly. "Great! Let's see how fast you can solve it!" Plankton felt his heart racing, his antennae drooping. The pressure to perform was suffocating him. He looked at the puzzle, his mind racing through possible word combinations, his eye darting from letter to letter, but Hanna interrupts him again. "Come on, Plankton! I bet you're really good at these!" Her excitement was palpable, but Plankton could only feel his chest tightening. He wanted to scream, to tell her to stop, but the words remained trapped behind the wall of his new social ineptitude. He took the book, his hands shaking slightly as his eye scanned the puzzle. The letters swam before him, his mind racing to keep up with the barrage of sensory input. "Don't be shy," she said, nudging him. "You can do it!" Plankton felt the weight of Hanna's enthusiasm like an anvil on his shoulders. His grip on the book tightened. He had always been good at word puzzles, but now they felt like a labyrinth with no exit. The room spun around him, the pressure to perform building like a storm in his chest. But Hanna's energy was like a tsunami, unstoppable. "You know, I used to be really bad at these," she said, sitting closer, her knees touching his. "But I got so much better with practice!" Plankton felt his skin crawl, the need to escape intensifying. He was trapped in a conversation he hadn't asked for, with a person who was oblivious to his plight. He took a deep breath, his eye scanning the room for a way out. "How about we try one together?" Hanna suggested, her voice bubbly. Plankton's heart hammered in his chest. Hanna didn't seem to notice his distress, her screen shining with excitement. "It'll be fun! Just tell me the letters you see, and I'll guess the words!" Plankton's antennae drooped, his shoulders tense. He wanted to scream, to tell her to leave him alone. But his newfound condition made the words catch in his throat. "Fine," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. Hanna's screen lit up, and she leaned in even closer. "Great!" she exclaimed. "I'll start with 'C'. What do you see?" Plankton's gaze remained steadfast on the book, his eye darting from letter to letter. He can't see anything with all... Hanna's voice cut through his thoughts like a knife, sharp and demanding. "C'mon, Plankton, don't be shy! Tell me what you see!" Her hand reached out, grabbing his arm. The sudden touch sent a jolt through him. Plankton flinched, his body reacting before his mind could form a coherent thought. His antennae shot up, and he pulled away, knocking over the book in the process. The sound echoed in the room like thunder. Hanna's smile faltered, confusion clouding her features. "What's wrong?" she asked, genuinely concerned as she cups his head; and that's it. The dam bursts. Plankton's body goes rigid, his eye wide with pain. He can't take it anymore—the touch, the noise, the pressure, his hand flailing to shove her away. "STOP!" he screams, his voice cracking. Hanna's hand retreats as if burned. Her smile fades, replaced by a look of shock and concern. "What happened?" she asks, turning him towards her with her hands on his shoulders. Which is when he stops moving, unblinking as Karen comes back in. Karen sets the chumbalaya aside as she notices his unresponsiveness. "Plankton?" she calls out, concern etching her voice. Hanna turns to her, her eyes wide. "I don't think he's okay," she says, her hand hovering over his shoulder. Karen's heart drops as she rushes over, her eyes scanning his frozen form. "It's okay," she murmurs, gently guiding Hanna away. "Let me handle this."

NEW REALITY vii (Autistic author) She sleeps at her bed next to his. The house is quiet, except for the soft snores coming from Plankton. But both of their eyes snap open at the sound of the doorbell. Plankton's body tenses, his hand shooting up to cover his head. Karen moves quickly, her heart racing. She knows that sudden sounds can be overwhelming for him. "It's okay," she murmurs, placing her hand over his. "Door," he says, his voice still groggy from sleep. Her eyes dart to the clock. It's early, much earlier than anyone would usually visit. "I'll go see who it is," she says, trying to keep her voice steady. "You stay here." Plankton nods, his hand dropping from his head to clutch at the blanket. "Stay," he whispers, his voice tight with anxiety. Karen's eyes fill with concern. "I'll be right back," she promises, her voice soft. "Just stay here." Plankton nods, his grip on the blanket tightening. "Stay," he repeats, his voice less than a whisper. Karen nods, her heart racing. "I will," she whispers. "Just rest." As she opens the door, she's met with the cheerful face of Hanna, her book club friend. "Hey Karen, I hope I'm not too early!" Hanna says, a word book in hand. Karen's eyes widen, her heart racing. "No, not at all," she says, forcing a smile. "Come in." Hanna steps into the house, her eyes bright with excitement. But as she sees Karen's expression, her smile falters. "Is everything okay?" she asks, concern etched on her face. Karen nods, as Plankton comes into the room, his gaze fixed on the spinning fan. "This is Plankton," Karen introduces, her voice calm. Hanna smiles. "Hi Plankton," she says, her voice too bright. He nods, his gaze still locked on the fan. "Fan spin," he murmurs. Hanna's eyes widen, unsure how to respond. Karen quickly interjects. "Why don't we take a look at the work puzzle book.." Plankton's gaze shifts, his interest piqued by the mention of books. "Puzzles," he repeats, his voice a bit clearer. Hanna's smile relaxes, seeing his interest. "Yes, puzzles," she says, holding up the book. "They're like fun little brain teasers." Plankton nods, his hand reaching out to touch the book. Karen watches, her heart racing. Will this be another trigger? But Plankton's gaze locks onto the puzzle book, his eye lighting up with curiosity. Karen's heart skips a beat. This could be good for him, a way to focus his whirling thoughts. Hanna opens the book, showing him a simple word search. "See if you can find the hidden words, Plankton," she says, her voice gentle. His gaze scans the page, his hand moving in time with his eye. "Words," he murmurs, his voice filled with excitement. Hanna nods, her smile growing. "That's right," she says, her tone encouraging. "See if you can find them all." Plankton nods, his eye quickly moving over the page. Karen watches, her heart swelling with hope. This might be it, she thinks, a new way to connect. Hanna points to a word, her voice soothing. "What's this?" Plankton's hand moves over the letters, tracing them. "F-A-N," he reads, his tone monotone. "Fan," he says, his gaze flicking up to the whirring object above. Hanna laughs, misunderstanding. "No, Plankton, not fan," she says, pointing to the puzzle. "Find the words that are hidden." But Plankton's gaze remains on the spinning blades. "Fan," he repeats, his voice taking on a firm tone. Hanna's smile falters, not comprehending his meaning. "No, Plankton," she says, her voice still cheerful. "Look at the puzzle." But Plankton's gaze doesn't waver from the fan. "Fan," he says, his tone firm, almost defensive. Hanna's smile falters, her cheerfulness waning. "Plankton," she says gently, "it's a puzzle, not about the fan." But Plankton's gaze remains fixed on the fan, his body tensing. "Fan," he repeats, his voice firm, almost defensive. Hanna's smile falters, uncertain of his meaning. "It's just a puzzle, Plankton," she says gently, her voice filled with misunderstanding. But Plankton's tone sharpens. "Fan," he insists, his voice raised, his body tense. "Fan spin, make quiet." Hanna's eyes widen with surprise, her smile slipping away. "It's not about the fan, Plankton," she says, her voice still kind but concerned. "It's about..." But Plankton's voice cuts through the air, his tone sharp. "Fan spin," he says, his hand moving in erratic patterns. "Fan make quiet. Fan important." Hanna's eyes widen, taking a step back. "I didn't mean..." she starts, but Plankton's agitation is growing. "Fan important," he repeats, his voice echoing in the quiet room. Karen's heart races as she tries to defuse the situation. "Hanna, it's okay," she says, her voice calm but firm. "The fan is special to Plankton. It helps him feel calm." But Hanna's confusion only grows. "It's just a fan, right?" she asks, her voice pitching with uncertainty. Plankton's voice rises, his hands flailing. "No!" he yells. "Fan special! Make quiet! Must spin!" Hanna's eyes widen with shock, her cheerful demeanor evaporating. "I'm sorry, I didn't know," she stammers, taking a step back. Plankton's voice echoes, his frustration palpable. "Fan special!" he yells, his hands slashing the air. Hanna's smile has disappeared, replaced by a look of fear. "I'm sorry," she whispers, backing away slowly. Karen's eyes are wide with worry. She steps between Hanna and Plankton, trying to shield her friend from his distress. "It's okay, Hanna," she says, her voice calm but firm. "Let's just give him some space." Hanna nods, her eyes filled with apology. "I didn't mean to upset him," she murmurs, setting the puzzle book down on the coffee table. Karen nods, her gaze on Plankton. "It's okay," she says softly. "He's just overwhelmed." Plankton's hands flap like wings against his sides. This is stimming, she knows, his way of coping with the sensory onslaught. He rocks back and forth, his gaze still on the fan. Karen's heart aches as she watches him, his body a whirlwind of energy. "Fan spin," he murmurs, his hands fluttering like butterfly wings. "Spin, spin." Karen's eyes follow his erratic movements, her heart racing. "Plankton," she says, her voice calm and soothing. "Look at me." He doesn't react, his gaze still glued to the fan. Karen approaches him, moving slowly to avoid startling his heightened senses. "Plankton," she repeats, her tone steady. He doesn't react, his eye still on the fan, his body a flurry of movement. Her heart racing, Karen tries again. "The fan spins," she says, mimicking his rhythmic speech. Plankton's gaze flicks to her, his body still. For a moment, his movements cease. "Spin," he whispers, his eye searching hers. Karen nods, understanding his need for the fan's rhythmic whirl. "It's okay," she says, her voice a gentle melody. "The fan will spin." Plankton's gaze shifts from the fan to the digital clock on the mantle. His eye widens as he sees the seconds tick by, restarting each minute. The numbers, stark and precise, seem to call to him, a silent symphony of order in a world gone haywire. Hanna looks confused, for Plankton's gaze shifts to the digital clock, the seconds ticking away in a silent symphony. His hands stop their erratic movements, his body stilling as he watches the precise dance of the numbers. Karen sees his fascination, the way his eye tracks each second as it passes. "It's okay," she says softly. "The clock will keep going." But Plankton's gaze doesn't shift. His body is still, his mind lost in the rhythm of the ticking digits. Karen watches, her heart racing. She's read about how some with autism find comfort in patterns, how the predictability of something as simple as a digital clock can be a lifeline in a world that's otherwise so chaotic. Hanna, however, doesn't understand. Her eyes go to Plankton, her confusion growing. "Plankton," she says, her voice still too bright, "it's just a clock." His eye snaps to her, his body rigid with tension. "Clock important," he murmurs, his voice a mix of anger and fear. "Numbers change." Hanna's smile fades, her eyes widening with confusion. "It's just a clock, Plankton," she says, trying to placate him. But her words only serve to stir his distress further. Plankton's eye darts from the clock to Hanna, his breath coming in quick bursts. "No," he whispers, his voice tight. "Clock important. Numbers change." Hanna's smile is gone, her expression one of confusion. "It's just a way to tell time," she says, her voice shaking. But Plankton's agitation is building, a storm gathering behind his eye. "No," he whispers, his hand trembling as it points to the clock. "Numbers change, make brain quiet." Hanna's eyes widen, her understanding still elusive. "But Plankton," she starts, "it's just a way to keep track of time." But Plankton's gaze is intense, his voice urgent. "No, no, no," he says, shaking his head. "Numbers change, make brain quiet." Hanna's voice rises, her confusion thick. "But it's just a clock, Plankton," she repeats, her words falling on deaf antennae. Plankton's body is tight as a spring, his gaze locked on the digital dance. "No," he whispers, his voice strained. "Numbers make quiet, chronologically." Hanna's eyes dart between Plankton and Karen, her confusion thick.

PLUSH ONE xi (By NeuroFabulous) Hanna nods, her smile gentle. "It's okay," she says, patting his shoulder. But Plankton flinches, his antennae shooting up. "NO TOUCH!" he cries out, his voice piercing the quiet. Hanna's hand jerks back, surprise etched on her screen. "It's okay," she murmurs, trying to ease the tension. Plankton clutches the plushie to his chest, his body shaking. "MINE," he repeats, his voice quivering. Karen understands his fear, his desire for sameness. His autism has turned a simple act of kindness into a threat to him. "I'm sorry," Hanna whispers, backing away. "I just di-" But Hanna backed into a desk of Plankton's books, which now fall misaligned to the floor with a thud. Plankton's eye widens in horror, his antennae twitching in fury. The disrupted order sends his senses into overdrive. Plankton can't take it. The loud thud, the mess... He jumps up, the plushie falling to the floor, forgotten. He starts to pick up the books, his hands shaking as he hurls them angrily at Hanna, who gasps. Karen sees the panic in his eye, the overwhelming sensory assault of the unexpected noise and movement. She moves to intervene, racing. "PLANKTON, STOP!" she shouts, her voice firm but not harsh. She doesn't want to startle him further. The books fly through the air, one hitting Hanna's arm with a thump. "Hey!" she cries, but Karen's focus is on Plankton. His body is a storm of jerky movements, his autistic mind struggling to cope with the sudden chaos. Karen's eyes are filled with fear and sadness. This isn't the Plankton she knows, not the one who would actually hurt someone. "PLANKTON!" she cries, her voice a thunderclap in the small room. He stops, his body trembling with rage and confusion. His antennae quiver, searching for the source of the disruption. Hanna stands back, her arm rubbing where the book had hit. "What's happening?" she whispers, her eyes wide with shock. But Karen's focus is on Plankton, his body a taut wire of anger. "It's okay," she says, her voice steady, though her heart is racing. "Let's just... let's clean up." Plankton's eye darts around the room, his antennae still quivering. He looks at her, his expression a storm of emotions she can't quite read. But she sees the fear, the confusion. And she knows she must act. Karen moves towards him, slowly, her hands up in a non-threatening gesture. "It's okay," she repeats, her voice the calm in the storm. "Let's clean up." But Plankton's autism doesn't understand calm. It sees only the mess, the disarray. His body shakes with frustration, his eye wild. He throws another book, this time it misses Hanna but hits the wall with a crack. Karen's eyes fill with tears. "Plankton," she says firmly, but with love. "This isn't you." But Plankton's rage doesn't subside. He throws another book, the spine snapping with the force. "PLANKTON, NO!" Karen shouts, but he doesn't hear her. His autism has taken over, his brain unable to process the sudden influx of stimuli. He throws another book, his body a blur of motion, Karen's eyes never leaving his face. She must get him to a safe space before he hurts someone, before he shatters the fragile peace they've built. "PLANKTON!" she shouts, louder this time. "STOP!" Her voice pierces the chaos, and his movements falter. His eye finds hers, and she sees the storm in his gaze, the fear and confusion. Karen's knowing she must act quickly. With a deep breath, she moves closer, her arms outstretched, her voice steady. "It's okay," she says, her tone a gentle lullaby. "Let's calm dow—" But Plankton's fury isn't easy to tame. He throws another book, his aim now erratic. The room is a whirlwind of paper and panic, the air thick with his distress. Karen's eyes never leave his, her voice the only constant in the chaos. "PLANKTON, PLEASE!" she calls, her desperation clear. She needs to get through to him, to the person she loves beneath the tumultuous autistic rage. But Plankton's autism has hijacked his mind, his body a vessel for fear and anger. He throws the last book, his arm slinging it like a weapon. It sails through the air, headed straight for Hanna. Karen's instincts take over, and she leaps forward, her hand catching it mid-flight. The room falls silent, the book in her hand a stark reminder of the chaos that was just moments before. Her eyes are on Plankton, his body heaving with frustration. Hanna's eyes are wide, fear and confusion etched on her screen. Karen aches for the man she loves, his world now a minefield of sensory overload. Hanna stands frozen, her eyes wide with shock. "I'm sorry," Karen murmurs, turning to her. "This isn't usual for him." But Plankton's fury doesn't subside. He lunges at her, his tiny body a blur of rage. Karen steps in, her arms spreading wide to protect Hanna. "PLANKTON!" she cries, his name a plea. His antennae slap her face, stinging with the force of his anger. She stumbles backward, her eyes never leaving his. "It's okay," she whispers, though she's not sure if it is. Plankton's body convulses, his legs flailing. Karen moves closer, trying to soothe him, but he's beyond reason. His tiny fists clench, his face distorted with rage. Hanna stumbles backward, fear in her eyes. "What's going on?" she asks, her voice shaking. Karen's a drum of worry. "Plankton," she whispers, her eyes pleading. "It's me, Karen." But his autism doesn't hear her words. It sees only the chaos, the invasion of his space. Karen's mind races, searching for a way to calm him. "PLANKTON!" she says, her voice firm but calm. "Look at me." She holds out her hand, her palm open, a silent offer of safety. But Plankton's anger doesn't abate. He swipes at the air. Karen knows she must act quickly before someone gets hurt. "PLANKTON, STOP!" she says firmly, her voice a steady drumbeat in the chaos. She holds out her hand, her movements slow and deliberate. "Look at me," she repeats, her screen filled with love and determination. But his fury doesn't abate. His body jerks, his antennae slapping the air as he tries to push past her to get to Hanna. Karen's eyes flicker to the plushie on the floor, then back to Plankton's wild gaze. Her voice remains steady, though fear tightens her throat. "Plankton, remember the plushie?" she asks, her words a soft whisper. "It's still here. It's still yo-" But her words are cut off by his shriek. Plankton's tiny body is a tornado of rage, his fists flailing. Karen's eyes never leave his. Her mind is a blur, searching for the right words, the right action to soothe his distress. Her voice is a lifeline, a steady beat in the storm. "Look at the plushie," she says, desperation coating her words. "Remember ho-" But Plankton's autism doesn't heed her pleas. His body writhes, his eye wild with fear and anger as he suddenly swings his fist, catching Karen off guard. She must get through to him. "PLANKTON!" she cries out, but he's deaf to her voice. Her eyes search his, looking for the man she loves, but all she sees is a tempest of sensory overload and confusion. With a tremble, Karen drops the book she'd caught and reaches out, her hand slow and gentle, offering comfort in the chaos. But Plankton's autism interprets it as an assault. He lunges again, his fists a flurry of pain. Karen's body is a shield, her eyes filled with tears as she tries to keep him from Hanna. Her voice remains calm, a beacon in the storm of his anger. "PLANKTON, PLEASE!" she shouts, but her voice is drowned by his screams. But she won't give up, not on him. With a tremble, Karen reaches for the plushie, her hand shaking as she holds it out to him. "Look," she says, her voice a soft whisper. "Your plushie, remembe---" But the sight of the toy doesn't calm him. Instead, it fuels his rage. He snatches it from her, his antennae whipping around in a frenzy. "MINE!" he shouts, the word a battle cry as he swings the plushie wildly. The room fills with the sound of fabric ripping, stuffing flying. Karen's eyes widen with horror. This isn't the Plankton she knows, the loving man who cherished his quiet moments with her. This is someone lost in his own world, a world of overwhelming sensory assault. The plushie, once a symbol of comfort, is now a weapon in his hands. He swings it wildly, the fabric tearing under his frenzied grip. Feathers and stuffing fill the air, the chaos a stark contrast to the silent tears sliding down Karen's screen. Hanna's eyes are wide, her body pressed against the wall, her mind racing with uncertainty. Karen sees the question in her gaze: What's happening? But there's no time for explanations. Plankton's autism has taken over, his fear a wildfire that she must extinguish before it consumes them all. Karen's eyes dart around the room, searching for something to help, something that might bring him back to her, to the reality where his world isn't falling apart. Her eyes land on the plushie, now a sad, torn mess on the floor. But she won't give up, not on the man she loves. Karen's mind races, searching for a way to break through the barricade of his fear. The room seems to spin, a whirlwind of panic and pain. Her eyes lock on the plushie, now a tattered mess at his feet. With a quick breath, she crouches down, her movements slow and deliberate. "Plankton," she whispers, her voice a lifeline in the tempest.