Title: Punctured
Fandom: Original work
Rating: PG
Length: 221
Pairing: car/bicycle
Content notes: Mild innuendo and terrible puns
Summary: Things are going downhill for a car and a bicycle.

“Car,” said the bicycle, “we need to talk.”

“Oh, Assembly-Robot. Oh, exhaust. It’s one of those talks, isn’t it?” said the car. “About our relationship.”

“Yes. The thing is…” The bicycle hesitated. “I think we both just need a bit more space.”

“Oh.” The car looked around the garage. “It does need a bit of a clear-out. They could get rid of that old TV for a start…”

“No. No,” said the bicycle. “I’m talking about emotional space.” It sighed. “We both knew this was coming. Don’t get me wrong, it’s been a lot of fun. I really enjoy it when I’m strapped to your rack—”

“Will you keep your voice down,” said the car.

“—but anyone can see how well you’ve been getting along with the new moped. And sometimes… Sometimes I just feel like a third wheel.”

The car raised its wipers. “You want to be a tricycle?”

“Great junkyard in the sky,” muttered the bicycle under its air, and had another go. “Look, I know you won’t believe it now but I think it’s the kindest thing to do—put the brakes on before we both get too attached. I mean truly, did you ever really think our relationship had legs?”

The car thought about that for a moment. “Well, no,” it said. “I suppose not…”