Love is a Battlefield
Volume 2 Chapter 9
A helping hand
Kyle didn't know how much time went by as he was laying there, listening to his sleeping boyfriend and just enjoying the peaceful moment. He didn't actually care about time at all, if it were for him, he could have stayed like that as much as he could. But something must have bothered Eric, or maybe he just slept enough, because he slowly started to breathe differently and then he made a couple of sleepy moans, which Kyle found adorable, while tightening the hold on Kyle - Huh... Did I fell asleep? - Eric softly mumbled.
- Yup... For a good amount of time too - Kyle chuckled as he caressed Eric's belly.
- That feels good... - Eric purred. Then he yawned and slowly opened his eyes - How long did I sleep? -
- Let me see... - Kyle reached for his pocket and opened it, luckily it had a zipper on it so he could put there the thing that Kyle held most dear. The red haired boy grabbed the golden watch that Eric had gave to him and took a quick glance at it - It's almost 12:30pm So you slept about three quarters of an hour -
- And you just stayed there the whole time? - Eric asked surprised.
- You're not the only one that likes to watch the other sleep you know? - Kyle replied with a smirk - Besides, I was really comfortable. It was really nice to just have this quiet moment -
Eric blushed - Okay... - Then he looked away - You... You haven't been wearing the watch... I mean, it's not like you have to but... Is it because you don't like it? - The chubby boy's voice sounded sad and disappointed.
- Why would you say something like that? - Kyle knitted his brows - I love this watch Eric. It's not only beautiful but it also symbolizes how much you love me and that's something that I will always hold dear. In fact, that's exactly why I don't wear it on my wrist all the time. It's just too important for me, so I don't want to risk it to be broken or have it stolen from me... So I just keep it in the safest pocket I have, so I can always have it with me -
Eric turned again to look at Kyle - Is it really that important to you? - The chubby boy had a slight but hopeful smile on his face.
Kyle raised himself a little so that he could look at Eric - Of course it is. It's the most beautiful thing that anyone has given to me - The green eyed boy smiled warmly at his boyfriend - And it comes from the most beautiful and sweet person I've ever met... So yeah, it is really that important to me - Kyle leaned towards Eric and kissed his cheek.
Eric smiled wide and pulled Kyle closer to him, kissing his boyfriend's lips softly - I love you Kyle -
- I love you too Eric - Kyle returned the kiss and then rested his head on Eric's chest again - Would you mind if we stay like this for a little more? -
- Not at all sweetie - Eric replied kissing Kyle's head - Just don't let me fall asleep again okay? -
- But it's alright if you need to sleep honey - Kyle said groping a little on Eric's belly.
The chubby boy laughed - That tickles... - Kyle chuckled too but stopped doing the groping and instead just rested his hand on his boyfriend's belly - I know that you don't mind, but I don't want to sleep so much in here. Besides, we should eat soon so we can have some time to go to the pond... When we passed by there it looked so good that now I would like to take a dip on our way back -
- That sounds nice - Kyle replied smiling - It's warm enough today to enjoy some time in the water indeed -
- And... I would like to do something else too before we leave. Well, actually two things - Eric said.
Kyle raised his head and looked at Eric - And what would those two things would be? -
- Well... One would be finding a nice spot in that cave to do what we said earlier... - Eric blushed but looked at Kyle with a knowing and suggestive look. Kyle blushed too and smiled - And the other would be... And I don't want you to get mad okay? But I would like to get inside that room with the stones... I think it looked really cool and I want to take a closer look - Eric raised his hand and bent three of his fingers, leaving only the index and middle up - I swear like a good scout that I won't try to grab any of the stones -
Kyle rolled his eyes and sighed - Okay... It wouldn't be so bad to grab just one... I just didn't wanted you to get all crazy and try to take all the walls back home - Then he leaned towards Eric and kissed his cheek - And the first part sounds really cool... - Eric smiled and gave Kyle a quick peck on the lips. Kyle smiled and got back to resting his head on Eric's chest.
Another half hour went by while the boys just remained laying on the ground, enjoying the peace they brought to each other. Eric kept his eyes open, looking at the leaves of the tree above him moving with the breeze and softly caressing Kyle's back, loving the weight of his boyfriend's head on his chest. He would often lower his look, glancing at Kyle's scarlet locks and smiled, thinking that he would never get bored of having Kyle like that with him.
Finally, Kyle started to play with his fingers on top of Eric's belly, making his index and middle finger to "walk" over it, which made Eric to chuckle - Dude, what do you have with my belly? You haven't stopped touching it since we laid in here -
- I don't know... It's just so soft and warm and nice to touch... - Kyle replied, circling Eric's navel with his finger - Why? Does it bother you? -
- On the contrary, it feels great - Replied Eric pulling Kyle a little closer with his arm - Although sometimes it tickles a little. But I don't know... I wouldn't have thought you could like to do that so much -
- Me neither... - Kyle smiled - Then again, I hadn't thought I would like a lot of things that I love to do now. Like kissing you, hugging you, sleeping with you... - The red haired boy chuckled - If anyone had told me a year ago that I would love so much to be your boyfriend I probably had puked... -
- Thanks... - Eric rolled his eyes.
- It's not about you - Kyle replied raising his head and looking at his boyfriend - Well, maybe a little. I mean, I would have never imagined that we could end up being together. But what I'm trying to say is that I would have never imagined that I could like so much to be someone's boyfriend at all. I just thought that such thing wasn't for me... -
- And what made you change your mind? - Eric asked, really curious about that - I mean, you went from not wanting to be with anyone to being here now with me in a pretty short time... -
- I'm not quite sure actually... - Kyle looked to the sky for a moment - Before, I thought that being in a couple would bring a lot of responsibilities and stuff that I wasn't prepared or willing to take... I saw how Stan was pretty much dragged around by Wendy and how some people actually felt sad because Kenny didn't wanted to be with them for more than a few days... I think I didn't wanted to be a prisoner of that kind of stuff. The thing is that I never before had seen the good things that a couple can bring - Kyle lowered his gaze and smiled at Eric - But when you started to show me how much you cared and then I saw all the things you were willing to do for me... Well, it made me think that maybe this wasn't so bad. And when we actually started to be together even more, cuddling and sleeping together and sharing wonderful moments I finally saw that being in a couple was about those things. It is about sharing your life, the good and also the bad times with someone that is there for you when you need them and that is willing and wanting to make you happy. And yes, it does bring some responsibilities, but they don't feel bad at all when you see the person you love smiling or happily talking with you or sleeping peacefully next to you... - Eric was smiling at Kyle and the ginger smiled wider and leaned to kiss him - You showed me that having a boyfriend is a wonderful thing -
- You know, I used to hate your little speeches... - Eric chuckled and Kyle rolled his eyes - But hearing you talking like this is so nice... I mean, I'm really happy that you got to change your mind about this because it is indeed a wonderful thing. And I'm even more happy that I helped in making you discover all this -
- Well, maybe I wouldn't have changed my mind if it hadn't been you the one showing me all this - Kyle brought his hand up to cup Eric's cheek on it - I mean, I think another person would had just given up... I know I can be difficult sometimes... -
- Difficult? You're impossible sometimes - Eric chuckled and Kyle rolled his eyes again but smiling.
- But I mean it. You were so patient with me when I was so insecure and had a lot of doubts inside... And you're still being patient about the whole making love thing too... - Kyle caressed Eric's chubby cheek with his thumb.
- That's because I love you Kyle - Eric replied smiling - I would do anything to see you happy -
- I love you too Eric. So much... - Kyle leaned down again and kissed Eric. The chubby boy held him tighter and started kissing back. Soon enough, their lips were moving graciously over each other's and their tongues, now more used to their little game, were again moving from one's mouth to the other's while little moans filled the warm and otherwise silent air.
Kyle pulled out from the kiss and smiled at Eric with eyes half-lidded - So... Want to go into that cave again? -
- Would love to - Replied Eric smiling and stealing a quick peck from his boyfriend's lips - But we should eat first... So then we can go to the pond later -
Kyle nodded – Okay, sounds reasonable. Besides, I am quite hungry -
- I'm pretty much starving - Eric chuckled.
Kyle chuckled too and moved from over his boyfriend - I guess we're eating here right? -
- Yeah. There are no tables or anything like in the first and second rest stops but I'm okay with eating here anyways - Eric sat up and shrugged.
- Me too - Kyle smiled and grabbed Eric's backpack that was beside him. He made a huffing sound from the effort - Fucking heavy... -
Eric laughed and grabbed the backpack - Maybe you should start weightlifting or something... -
- I don't think any gym will allow a thirteen years old guy to weight-lift - Kyle replied rolling his eyes - Besides; I don't really know if I need it. I mean, it wouldn't be bad to be a little stronger, but it's not like I'm scrawny and weak or something... -
- Well, you surely are not scrawny - Eric chuckled and groped Kyle's belly - And you're not weak either. I mean, even if you haven't done exercise lately I'm sure that your punches still hurt like hell -
- Did it really hurt you when I hit you? - Kyle asked both surprised and regretful.
- A lot... You broke my nose more than once dude - Eric shrugged - Besides, maybe I always was bigger, but you were quick and you caught me by surprise most of the times. I think you could be a dangerous guy to fight against -
- Well, I'm sorry for having done that... - Kyle looked down - Even if you did deserved it most of the times -
- It's okay sweetie - Eric scooted closer and kissed Kyle's cheek - You are right, I brought that onto myself. Besides, we never did anything too serious. A broken nose, a cut lip and some bruises are something that every guy gets at some moment right? -
- It shouldn't be like that but yeah... I get your point - Kyle sighed and smiled - I'm glad that we never actually hurt each other much -
- Me too - Eric nodded and started to take out the food from the backpack - And now I'm even gladder that we can touch each other without having to do it with our fists -
Kyle smiled - Indeed. It's so much better to kiss you than to punch you -
Eric blushed a little and smiled while he prepared everything to have lunch. The boys started to eat and just as Kyle had guessed, the sandwiches were delicious. He thought that maybe Eric could actually cook for a living. But he decided not to bring the issue up right at the moment, since that brought up the thoughts he had been having earlier and Kyle didn't wanted to have another sad conversation that day. They would have plenty of time in the future to talk about that stuff.
After finishing their lunch, the boys decided to rest for a moment before making their way into the cave. When Eric felt ready, he asked Kyle - Hey, what do you say about going inside the cave again? -
- Sure, let's go - Kyle replied smiling and got up.
Eric imitated him and then folded the mat, stashing it in the backpack again before reaching his hand to Kyle - Let's get going -
Kyle smiled and held Eric's hand as they started to walk again into the cave. They felt more confident than into the first minutes, since they had already walked that far without anything bad happening. As they approached the stones room, Eric said - Honey... Would it bother you if we go inside? -
Kyle shook his head - No, it's okay. I want to see that too -
The boys went closer to the crack in the wall. It was big enough for them to squeeze themselves inside. Eric left his backpack on the floor next to the entrance and began to enter the room. Huffing a little as he had to suck in his belly a bit, he finally was able to get inside - Woah! Kyle, this is even better than we had thought! - Eric's excited voice came accompanied with a strange echo from inside the stones room.
Kyle left his backpack next to Eric's and looked hesitantly at the crack in the wall - Do you think it's really safe to get in there? What if we can't get out later? -
- Are you planning on eating the rocks or something? - Eric laughed, sticking his head out the crack a bit - If I could get inside it should be easier for you don't you think? -
Kyle rolled his eyes and sighed, but smiled at Eric and patted on his head lightly - Okay... Get out of there so I can come in - Eric retreated into the room and Kyle turned to his side to enter through the crack. Eric had been right of course, Kyle wasn't as fat as his boyfriend so it was easier for him to get in. Once inside, Kyle looked around and immediately understood the exclamation that Eric had made.
The room was way bigger than both of them had imagined. It stretched into the side of the cave and it was larger than Kyle's and Eric's rooms combined and the ceiling was so high that they couldn't get to see it. The walls were almost completely covered in shiny stones that had a mix of purple and blue tones and since the sun was entering the cave directly from the entrance, the stones were shining and filling the room with a dim but still powerful light.
- Dude... This is amazing! I never thought there could be something like this in South Park... - Kyle exclaimed with a breathy voice filled with excitement.
Eric got near to one of the walls and hesitantly touched one of the stones - They're soft and so cold... Ouch! - He pulled his hand quickly and frowned - And sharp too. Be careful sweetie -
- Are you okay? - Kyle got closer, worried about Eric.
- Yeah, I just didn't thought they were going to be so pointy - Eric suckled on his index finger that was obviously still hurt.
- Did you cut it? I have some bandages and stuff... - Kyle said starting to shrug off his backpack.
Eric removed the finger from his mouth and inspected it - Huh... Nope, there's no cut. It just hurt a bit -
Kyle smiled relieved - That's better then. Be careful Eric, you can't go touching stuff like that... -
- Give me a break - Eric rolled his eyes but smiled at Kyle - You know what would be awesome? Taking a picture of this place... -
- I don't know... - Kyle replied looking around - If other people know about this they will want to exploit the place and will end up ruining it. Like they have ruined pretty much everything else... -
- Yeah... You're right about that - Eric said - But we could keep the secret to ourselves right? Wouldn't that be even more awesome? -
The chubby boy's smile was so honest and cute that Kyle chuckled feeling his heart warming - I guess it's nice to have our own little secret... -
- Okay then, get over that wall. I would love to get a picture of you in here. This light makes you look so good - Eric smiled while taking out his phone and starting to prepare the camera.
- What about you? We should take a picture of the both of us... - Kyle replied.
- We will honey, but I want to have a picture of just you too... - Eric blushed and smiled a little shyly - You know... To look at when you're not with me... -
Kyle blushed too and felt the warmth in his heart growing. Eric could be really cute and tender when he wanted to and Kyle just loved that - Okay... But I want one of you too okay? -
Eric nodded and finished preparing the camera. He had adjusted it so it would look good even in the low light of the cave - Okay... Now smile for me - Eric aligned the frame to get all of Kyle and a good chunk of the stones wall on the picture. It looked as if the stones were tiny spotlights that illuminated Kyle from behind but not too strongly to cast a shadow on him, so it looked as if Kyle had an illuminated purple aura around him. Eric took the picture and smiled - Okay... Just one more to be sure... - But then, he saw something on the floor that caught his attention. It was a dark shadow that had twitched a bit after he took the photo. The shadow twitched again and Eric opened his eyes wide - Um... Kyle... I don't want to scare you but don't move... - Eric didn't knew what was the thing that was moving beside Kyle but if it was some kind of animal it could get jumpy with a sudden movement, so he started to very slowly move towards Kyle.
Of course, like it happens to anyone when they hear that, Kyle started to panic at Eric's words. He opened his eyes wide but he didn't moved. Even if he felt more scared by Eric's expression - What... What's happening?... - Kyle quietly asked.
- I think there's something right next to you so don't move - Eric replied quietly too and getting closer.
Now Kyle felt terrified but he tried to look to the side as slowly as he could. His eyes trailed to the floor and then he could see the same shadow that Eric had seen - I think... I think it's some kind of animal... - Kyle's voice sounded scared. But then, squinting his eyes, Kyle could see that the shadow was quite small, no bigger than his hand. As slowly as he could, Kyle turned around to stand facing the shadow and began to crouch to look at it better.
Eric felt the worry filling him when Kyle moved and he moved a bit faster - What are you doing? Stay still! - He breathed out, not wanting to raise his voice too much.
As Kyle was moving closer, the shadow moved again and he froze, the dim light didn't let him see clearly what that thing was but it was clear now that it was something small. Eric finally reached the place and started to crouch too. From the angle he was in, some of the rays that the stones reflected illuminated better the shadow and Eric let out a gasp - It's a bat! -
Kyle knitted his brow and started to move again, trying to get closer and then he saw that Eric was right. On the floor next to him, laid a really small bat, its wings were retracted and it was laying on its side. For a moment, Kyle thought that it was dead, but both of them had seen it moving. Eric reached his hand towards it very slowly and touched it. The bat moved a bit, clearly startled but it didn't moved from the spot - It looks like it's in a bad shape... It could be hurt... - Eric whispered.
- Maybe it's dying or something... You shouldn't touch it Eric - Kyle whispered too. He was really concerned about his boyfriend - You know that those animals often carry diseases -
- It's not always like that Kyle - Eric frowned a bit - We... We cannot leave it in here -
- What? Are you talking about taking it with us? - Kyle was shocked by his boyfriend's words.
- It needs help Kyle. It's hurt or something - Eric touched the bat gently again and the animal barely moved.
Kyle was scared that the animal could snap and just bite them, but it looked so small and maybe Eric was right, it did looked like it needed help - Maybe... Maybe it needs water or something... -
Eric nodded - Probably. Wait here - The chubby boy slowly got up and walked to the entrance of the room. Kyle looked at him and then again to the bat. He couldn't help but to feel concerned and scared, but at the same time he couldn't just abandon a small animal that obviously needed help.
Eric reached out the crack for his backpack and pulled it closer. Opening it, he took one of the bottles of water and returned with Kyle. He crouched again and poured some water on the cap. Then, very slowly, he placed the cap near the head of the bat. For a second, the bat didn't moved, but then, they saw that its head started to move and it was obvious that it wanted to get up. Kyle grabbed the cap and moved it a little closer to the bat, tilting it a bit so it would be easier for the animal to reach the water. The bat immediately moved closer to the water and started to lap at it with its tongue - It's drinking! - Kyle couldn't help but to smile. The bat seemed to have been really thirsty because he didn't stopped drinking for quite a while.
- Looks like it's been here on the floor since last night... - Eric said - Maybe it lost its way to its lair or something... - Then he smiled at Kyle - But now it seems that it's regaining its strength -
The bat stopped drinking then and extended its wings - Wow, it's bigger than I thought - Kyle said moving back a bit. The bat flapped its wings but one of them looked limp.
- That wing is broken... - Eric reached for the left wing that was laying on the floor. The bat tried to move away and turned around, moving towards the wall - Easy... I'm not gonna hurt you... - Eric said with a soft voice. He reached for the bat again and gently touched the seemingly broken wing. The bat squirmed and flapped the healthy wing rapidly - We have to take it to a vet Kyle. It's going to die if we leave it here -
Kyle bit his lower lip and looked at the small animal with concern and pity on his eyes. He had always liked to help the animals and it was obvious that Eric was right - Okay... But how? I mean, we can't carry it in our hands... It's frightened, maybe will try to bite us -
- Yeah... You're right... - Eric remained silent for a moment, cupping his chin with his hand - I know... - He suddenly got up and went back to the backpack. Eric took from inside the tupperware they had used to bring the food and showed it to Kyle - Do you think it fits in here? -
Kyle shrugged and took a look at the bat. It was small with its wings retracted and the tupperware was pretty big - I think it will work - He said nodding to Eric.
The chubby boy went back towards them and got closer to the bat - Now get in here... We will take care of you... - Eric was speaking softly, almost tenderly. Kyle couldn't help but to smile at his boyfriend's determination and gentleness. Eric tilted the tupperware and tried to corner the bat against the wall, he was afraid of being too rough with his hands so he was trying to touch the animal the least possible. Moving the tupperware slowly, he finally managed to corner the bat, who was still moving kind of frantically trying to get away - Kyle, hand me the lid - The red haired boy took the lid of the tupperware and gave it to Eric, who finally had the bat trapped. Slowly, he covered the container and lifted it from the floor with the bat inside - Done! Now it's safe in here -
- Won't it suffocate with the lid on? - Kyle looked at the container where the bat could be seen moving around inside.
- Um... Probably... But it's going to get away if I leave this open... - Eric frowned and opened a corner of the lid so a little air could get inside.
- I got an idea - Kyle went towards entrance and got out. Then he went for his backpack and looked in one of its pockets until he found a rubber band. Then, he opened Eric's backpack and pulled out a big cloth napkin and got into the room again - Okay, open the lid and hold the container for me - He said to Eric. The chubby boy opened the lid slowly, the bat moved again but it couldn't fly and neither climb the plastic walls. Kyle extended the napkin over the opening and fastened the rubber band around it, closing the opening with the napkin - This way it will have some breathing air... -
- That was awesome - Eric smiled at Kyle - Now it's secure inside and comfortable -
- I'm not sure about the comfortable part... But at least it's not going anywhere - Kyle chuckled a bit.
- We should get out of here... I don't know how long this little dude can hold inside this. It's probably hungry too - Eric's voice reflected his concern.
- I know... Maybe we should get back home - Kyle nodded, not managing to hide his disappointment.
Eric looked down - I'm sorry... -
- What are you apologizing for? We're doing the right thing here Eric - Kyle smiled to his boyfriend and put a hand on his shoulder.
- I know, but I didn't want our trip to be cut short like this - Eric bit the inside of his cheek.
- We had a great time anyways right? - Kyle's voice was reassuring. He did have wanted to stay longer. But he also wanted to help that little animal. Besides, he had never seen Eric acting like that, so caring towards an animal and he didn't wanted to interfere with such a noble and tender thing - Now let's go. We can always come back here another day. But this guy needs help now -
Eric nodded and smiled, leaning forward to kiss Kyle's cheek - Let's go - They both got up again and went towards the entrance. Kyle got out first and grabbed the container that Eric was handling to him. Then Eric made it out too and they grabbed the backpacks to start their return.
The boys walked down the road again. Kyle was carrying the container with the bat inside and Eric often looked at it as if he were afraid that the bat might die at any second. Kyle was amused and touched by his boyfriend's care for the small animal and tried to handle the container as carefully as he could. They finally made it to the fence and like before, Kyle went through and then Eric handed him the container and the backpacks before going out himself. Eric insisted in covering the hole as best as he could so no one could suspect anything.
The boys made their way back to the main road and walked down it to leave the mountain. The way down proved to be easier but the sun had heated both the air and the road itself. Eric was worried about the heat endangering the bat so he covered the container with a spare shirt he had brought.
It took them less than an hour to make it to the second rest stop. They could have made it sooner but Eric insisted in stopping every ten minutes to check on the bat. Kyle indulged him because it was nice to see Eric so worried about a little animal and because he himself was kinda worried. Although he wasn't as optimistic as Eric. Kyle thought that without professional help soon, the animal wouldn't have much of a chance. But he didn't want to tell that to Eric at the moment, afraid that it might upset the chubby boy.
They decided to take a small pause at the rest stop. Even if the way down was being easier, they still felt tired and didn't wanted to push themselves too far because they were still pretty much alone in the trail and didn't wanted to risk something happening to either of them.
After the brief stop, the boys resumed their walk, this time Eric carried the container. The boys talked just a little during the way back, Eric was completely absorbed with the state of the small animal they were trying to help and Kyle just let him be, wondering how he had never seen that Eric was so good with animals before. He had seen the chubby boy yelling at his pets before and he had even hurt Kenny's cat one day, although Kyle wasn't so sure about that because the cat had just appeared with a broken leg and everyone blamed Eric because he had been playing with the cat earlier.
Another hour went by and the boys made it to the first rest stop. Kyle went to check at the store the schedule for the bus, since they were going back earlier than what they had planned. The bus made a stop there every hour, so they had a lot of time still to catch the next one. They decided to wait for a while in the tables at the rest stop. There was still some way to the bus stop but they preferred to wait there because there was some shadow from the trees. Once at the tables, Eric carefully opened the makeshift lid on the container and served another cap of water to the bat, who drank it even faster than before. The chubby boy smiled and remarked that the bat was already feeling better. Kyle couldn't deny it, the animal looked more active than before, but he still worried about how longer it would hold.
Finally, the time to leave came and the boys walked the rest of the trail down to the bus stop. They waited for just five minutes and then the bus appeared on the road. They waited for it to start the trip back and hopped in.
Luckily for them, the bus's trip went near the main street, where they knew was a veterinary's shop. The boys made their way there, hoping that the place was still open. Once there, they looked around and didn't see anyone, but the door wasn't locked, so they made their way inside and waited for a moment. Eric was getting impatient and was about to go to the back of the shop but just then the vet came from the back and greeted them - Hello boys. What may I help you with? -
- We found this bat while we were taking a hike in the mountains today. I think its wing is hurt - Eric hurriedly placed the container on the shop's counter and uncovered it.
The doctor held it in the air, inspecting the animal inside. Then he placed the tupperware down again and removed the cloth. The bat looked agitated but it still couldn't escape - It seems you're right boy... I'll have to check it better. Come with me to the back please - He grabbed the container again and walked to the back of the shop. The boys followed him and watched as the vet gently tilted the container until the bat rested on a small examining table.
Eric was anxious and wanted to move closer. Kyle noticed his boyfriend's nervousness and softly brushed his hand, smiling at him reassuringly - Don't worry. It will be fine -
The husky teen looked at Kyle and nodded while smiling a bit - I hope so... -
- How long it's been since you found it? - The doctor asked while still examining the bat.
- About three hours or so... - Kyle replied - We found it at the end of the trail of the northern mountain - Eric looked at Kyle with wide eyes and a panicked look on his face. Kyle mouthed "Leave it to me" and continued - It was on the floor, near a tree. We found it by pure chance -
The chubby boy pursed his lips to hold a smile and rolled his eyes to Kyle. The red head shrugged and smiled back to him.
- The poor thing must have spent the whole morning there... - The doctor said quietly.
- We gave it some water - Eric added - It seemed really thirsty. But we didn't know what to give it to eat... -
- You did great boys. Bats need plenty of water and food, but it's better not to try to give them anything if you're not sure what it can eat. The water was just fine - The vet turned around to smile at them and then went to a counter and grabbed some medical instruments the he placed on a little stand next to the examining table - I will have to operate our little friend here. Its wing is strained and I have to splint it, but I will need to ask you to wait on the front for a while okay? -
Both boys nodded silently and returned to the front of the store. Eric shrugged off his backpack and left it on the ground as he sat heavily on one of the waiting couches. Kyle sat beside him and softly caressed his hand - It's going to be alright Eric. You heard what the doctor said; the bat's wing is just strained. In a couple of days it will be flying again -
- I really hope so sweetie... - Eric sighed and then smiled at his boyfriend - Thanks for this. I might be looking pretty stupid to you but I'm actually worried about that little dude -
- I don't think this is stupid. In fact, I think is quite sweet from you to feel so worried about a little animal. I mean, it really shows how sweet you are honey - Kyle squeezed Eric's hand gently. Then he chuckled a bit - But how do you know it's a dude? Maybe it's a girl... -
- Whatever it is... I just call it "dude" because I'm used to that word - Eric chuckled too, feeling much better now that they were finally at the vet and also because he had Kyle beside him, reassuring him all the time - Thanks again for being here Kyle. It feels really nice to have someone with me when I get worried about something... -
- You don't need to thank me Eric. I love you, of course that I would be at your side through something like this - Kyle smiled warmly at Eric and looked around, they were alone in the shop and there weren't too many people out there, so he quickly leaned towards Eric and kissed him on the cheek.
Eric blushed and smiled surprised - What was that for? -
- That was for being an awesome guy that did his best to save a small animal that needed it - Kyle replied smiling.
Eric smiled shyly - I didn't do that much... And you helped a lot too. We did this together -
- And that's what makes it all even better - Kyle caressed his boyfriend's hand once more before leaning back on the couch - Now try to rest a bit. I'm sure that everything will be fine - Eric nodded and leaned back too, trying to relax
Around half an hour later, the doctor came back from the examining room and smiled to them - Your little friend is going to be okay. Do you want to see him? -
Eric jumped form the couch and walked quickly to the doctor. Kyle followed him and they both went back into the room. On the examining table there was a big and transparent cube with something that looked like a white blanket inside. The little bat was inside. It wasn't moving but as they walked closer, they could see that its chest was making a minimal but visible movement - He's sedated now but will be up in an hour or so. I splinted his wing and will be able to fly again in just a couple of weeks. Luckily he didn't broke any of the wing's bones, they're really fragile -
- See? I told you it was going to be okay - Kyle smiled at Eric.
- Yeah... - Eric was smiling too - So it's a he then? - He asked to the doctor.
- Yes, a very young male. They're usually larger but this one must be an equivalent to you in bat years -
- I told you it was a dude - Eric grinned to Kyle. The red head rolled his eyes but smiled - Thanks doctor. We were really worried -
- I could see that - The vet replied chuckling - But you were the ones that brought him so quickly. Otherwise he wouldn't have had a chance -
- So... What it's going to happen to him? - Eric asked starting to worry again.
- Well, I'll have him here for a couple of days for observation of course. But then I won't be able to keep him here anymore. I have to make room for the other animals that come here every day - The vet noticed the sad look on Eric - I'm sorry... -
- But... Could I take him home with me? - Eric asked suddenly full of hope.
- I guess... Will your parents let you? - The doctor asked biting the inside of his cheek.
Eric's expression turned a little somber but then he just nodded – There won't be a problem with that -
- Well, then you can take him home - The vet replied - But remember, these aren't pets. You can't keep him forever okay? Once his wing is healed and can fly again you have to release him -
- I understand - Eric nodded and turned again to look at the bat - Heard that? You're coming with me... -
Kyle smiled again at the tenderness that his boyfriend was showing and then turned again to the doctor - Thanks again. Do we... Do we owe you anything for this? - Kyle started to worry because he hadn't thought before about such a thing.
- Don't worry, I'm supposed to help the local wild fauna for free and since this little guy came from the mountain I couldn't charge you anything even if I wanted - The doctor smiled again - Now, I was about to close the shop when you came in and this little guy needs to rest, so I'm gonna have to ask you to leave now... -
Eric nodded - Okay, but I will come on Monday for him -
- Of course - The doctor smiled again and grabbed the container - I'm gonna take him back home to take care of him during the weekend -
- See you on Monday then - Kyle smiled at the veterinary and then signaled Eric to follow him. The bigger boy took a last glance at the animal and followed his boyfriend out. They grabbed their backpacks and left the clinic.
The boys made it to the bus stop and then to Eric's house again. Once inside, they both shrugged off their backpacks and without even a word, they went to the couch and crashed there. For a while, neither of them spoke, they were feeling really tired but also content.
After a while, Kyle snuggled closer to Eric and kissed him on the cheek - I loved what you did for that bat... -
Eric blushed a bit and smiled - Well, I loved that you helped me even if it kind of cut short our day out... -
- Come on Eric, we spent a wonderful day at the mountain and we got to save a little guy that needed us - Kyle smiled warmly and reassuringly to his boyfriend - I think it was a really great day. And we will be able to go back any other time - He kissed Eric's cheek again - In fact, we will have to get back there to release the bat once he's healed right? -
- Yeah, you're right... - Nodded Eric smiling - And I promise that we will take a dip in the pond then -
- Sounds like a good deal - Kyle chuckled a bit.
- Although... I was wanting to do what he had said we were going to do in the cave too... - Eric blushed even more and looked to the side.
- We can do that here too you know? - Kyle moved even closer and whispered huskily into Eric's ear - Tonight... -
Eric's eyes went wide for a second and then turned to look at Kyle - Really? That would be awesome but... Are you going to spend the night here today too? - He sounded excited but at the same time a little restrained. Eric knew that he shouldn't get his hopes too high up. Even with the recent friendlier behavior from Kyle's mother, she was still strict.
- Well, I was wanting to - Kyle replied nodding - I mean, I didn't tell my mom but I was wanting to do it. I could call her and ask. If you want me of course -
- Why would you even ask that? - Chuckled Eric - Of course I want! I would have you sleeping with me every night if I could! -
Kyle blushed a bit and smiled - Really? I mean... i would like that too -
- Well, of course that I know that we can't do that now... - Eric replied biting the inside of his cheek - But it doesn't mean I wouldn't love it. And i have been thinking a lot about, you know... The future... About living together at some point... - His words were a little hesitant but there was so much hope and love in them that Kyle felt his heart melting.
Of course that Kyle had thought the same ever since they had started dating, even before that a bit too. But he knew that there was going to be a long time before that could happen. Still, knowing that Eric was wanting that as much as him made Kyle's heart leap in joy - I have been thinking about the same Eric and I would love to do that. And I'm sure that someday we will... -
The bigger boy smiled wide and leaned towards Kyle to kiss him. Their lips were locked into a tender and loving kiss that seemed to seal that promise about sharing a future where they would live together.
- So, if you want I could ask my mother if I can stay the night with you - Kyle said smiling.
- Of course that I want - Eric smiled too and kissed his boyfriend's cheek.
Kyle took out his cellphone and dialed his mother's number. After just a few rings, Kyle heard his mother's voice - Hello? Kyle? -
- Hey mom - Kyle greeted to her.
- Hello bubbe, is everything okay? - She sounded happy to hear him and at the same time a bit worried.
- Yes mom, everything's fine. We just came back from our trip - Kyle answered and smiled because Eric had started to play with a lock of his hair.
- So soon? I was expecting that you came down later - Mrs. Broflovski replied surprised.
- We were planning to, but we found a little bat that was hurt at the end of the trial, so we took it and brought it to a veterinarian here in town - Kyle said while resting his head on Eric's shoulder.
- A bat? Where did that came from? - Asked Kyle's mother, now she sounded definitely worried - You didn't touch it didn't you? -
- No mom, I didn't touch it - Eric rolled his eyes and Kyle snickered quietly - We were extra careful and brought it as soon as we could. It's staying with the vet now -
- Oh well... That was sweet of you bubbe - Kyle could hear his mother's tone easing up.
- In fact, it was Eric's idea and he was the one who found him - Kyle looked at Eric and the chubby boy was blushing.
- Really? That boy is surely showing a kind side - Mrs. Broflovski replied a little surprised again.
- I told you he had it in him... - Kyle smiled and snuggled into Eric's side. The bigger boy kissed his head softly - But I called you because I wanted to ask you if I could stay at Eric's house again tonight... Since our trip was a little bit interrupted, I thought that we could at least stay here and play or something. He's alone today and I would like to keep him company - Kyle almost regretted having said that. The implications of them two being alone in Eric's house were too many and he thought that his mother would object immediately.
- Well... I don't like the idea of you two boys alone in a house all night - Mrs. Broflovski started and Kyle's heart started to sink a bit - But since things have been going so well between you two and you have shown how much you have grown up, well, I think it wouldn't hurt you to stay. But only for today okay? -
Kyle could have jumped from the joy and turned to flash a huge smile to Eric - Of course mom. And we will take a lot of care. Thanks mom! -
- Just call me if you need anything and we will be there in a second okay? - Kyle's mother said and he could have sworn that she was smiling.
- Sure mom. Thanks again. Bye - Kyle replied ecstatic.
- Goodbye bubbe - Kyle's mother finally hung up and the ginger did the same before planting a deep kiss on Eric's lips.
- I guess she said yes? - Eric chuckled, amused at his boyfriend's behavior and excited about spending another night with Kyle.
- Yes! She didn't even tried to argue! - Kyle was feeling really excited and happy.
- Your mother is acting really strange lately - Eric chuckled again - But I'm glad that is a good kind of strange - He wrapped his arms around Kyle and kissed him again.
- Well, since we have some more time for ourselves, what would you like to do now? - Kyle asked snuggling again on Eric's shoulder.
- I don't know... I'm feeling a bit tired... Maybe walking so much and the commotion at the end were too much - Eric held Kyle a bit tighter.
- Do you want to take a nap? - Kyle asked running his hand over Eric's chest.
- I already slept up there... I wouldn't want you to think I'm some kind of sloth or something - Eric laughed, loving the attention that Kyle was giving to him.
- I wouldn't mind to sleep for a bit too... - Kyle replied looking up and smiling - Just an hour or so and later we can watch a movie or something -
- Well, that does sounds nice - Eric kissed the point of Kyle's nose - Okay, wanna go to the bed? -
Kyle nodded and gave Eric a quick peck on the lips before getting up. They walked upstairs and into Eric's room. The day was still really warm, so they decided to sleep again just in their boxers. Kyle climbed into the bed and waited for Eric to close the blinds so that the light wouldn't bother them. Then Eric climbed onto the bed too and hugged Kyle. They kissed and held each other for a while, loving the feeling of their hands running through their bare skin and their chests and bellies touching each other without anything in the middle. Kyle finally turned around and scooted closer to Eric who in turn held him tightly and kissed the back of his neck. The day was pretty quiet and they were really tired indeed, so both the boys fell asleep quite fast, having each other's breathing as a soothing melody.
***Disclaimer: I don't own the South Park characters or any of the brand names mentioned in this story. I don't own any of the songs mentioned on the story or used as chapter titles.
