Love is a Battlefield, Volume 1

by CommanderHusky

The boys from South Park have gone trough a lot together, but now, as they start their teen years, a lot of things change. Multi volume, multi chaptered novel focused on the lives of the four main boys from South Park as they discover new things about themselves. Mostly focused on Kyman. Angst, comfort, hard themes and lots, lots of fluff. Rated M but with some MA content later

10. Chapter 10

Love is a battlefield

Volume 1 Chapter 10

Return to innocence

February 3

The next day came and Kyle was again waiting at the bus stop to get to school. Kyle was surprised about not having seen his friend on the way, Stan was usually there early just like him, but this time the red haired boy stood alone waiting for the bus.

After a couple of minutes he saw Eric coming his way - Hey Kyle - Greeted the chubby boy when he arrived.

- Hi Eric - Replied Kyle, his eyes shimmering at the sight of his friend standing next to him - How are you? -

- Fine, just a little tired - Said Eric looking at the sky and sighing a little - Last night I stayed until late playing at the computer after finishing all the homework I had to do -

- I'm glad to hear that you could get it all done - Smiled Kyle - Everything went well at your house? - Asked Kyle with a little caution.

- Yeah, like I said, I went to my room and stayed there all day, just going down to get something to eat - Replied the brown haired boy smiling back - So... Everything went well with Kenny after school? - Eric's words sounded almost like if he didn't really wanted to ask that.

- Yup - Replied Kyle - He needed me to help him with something he had to pick downtown... -

- Oh, okay... - Said Eric.

He was smiling but Kyle remembered the look on his face from the last day - Eric... - Said Kyle hesitantly - Were you... Um... Upset yesterday about me and Kenny hanging out after school? -

- No, why would I? - Replied the chubby boy with an obviously fake tone, then he looked away, knowing that Kyle wasn't going to fall for that and sighed - Okay... I was... I don't know... When he asked you that and you accepted I felt a little... -

- Jealous? - Asked Kyle cautiously with a worried look.

Eric looked at him and then to the floor, putting his hands in his pockets - Kinda... - He sighed again - I'm feeling pretty stupid telling you this now, but yeah... That's how I felt then... - The boy glanced at his friend's eyes with an apologetic look - It was just for a second, really. I know it was wrong of me to feel that way... I'm sorry. I know that we're not boyfriends or anything, and even if we were, it would be wrong of me to feel like that if you wanted to hang out with your friends without me... It's just that... My head is still pretty messed up, and the old habits are hard to kill... -

Kyle noticed the regret in his friend's voice and getting closer to him said - I get that you could feel like that... Even if we're not dating officially we are doing a lot of stuff that people who are just friends don't do and I know that it can get a little confusing... I myself am still confused about this whole situation, but I think it's good that right now, we both know were we stand at about this and even if we sometimes feel things like that, it's nice that we can talk about it and try to make it so we both are feeling okay at the end - The red haired boy put his hand on the bigger boy's arm and caressed it a little - Besides, I like how you think that even as a couple, we would have our own space... - He blushed with that last sentence and the chubby boy smiled at him feeling a little more relaxed and a whole lot grateful that Kyle wasn't upset with him.

- Of course. I mean, if we were to be together, it would be as two guys that want to be with each other but having their own lives too. I wouldn't want to be with you like if I owned you... - Eric blushed a little and Kyle saw that his eyes radiated a sincere and deep love for him - I don't want you to be by my side because you're afraid of me or as my property. I want you to be with me because you feel good and safe there, because you really want to... - Kyle gave him a big smile, feeling a great warmth in his chest - That's why I don't want to rush anything - Continued Eric - Because if you decide to be with me, I want you to be sure of it... -

The red haired boy lowered his hand and slowly grabbed the bigger boy's one, not caring if anyone saw them and looking at those big and beautiful hazel eyes said - I know Eric. I too want to be absolutely sure about this because if we were to be together, I want it to be perfect... -

Eric squeezed Kyle's hand gently and smiled to him - I'll be here for you if you want that - The red haired boy squeezed his friend's hand to and gave him a big and loving smile.

After a couple of seconds, Eric gently let go of Kyle's hand and blushing a little said - We probably should be more careful with this... I mean, we're in the middle of the street... -

The red haired boy blushed a little too and replied - I know... But I needed to do that -

- It felt really nice - Said Eric smiling at him.

Just then, they saw Kenny arriving at the bus stop waiving at them - What's up guys -

- Hey Kenny - Both boys greeted at him.

- Stan's not here yet? - Asked the blond boy surprised.

- No... Maybe he was feeling sick? - Replied Kyle a little worried.

- There he comes - Pointed Eric, looking as the black haired boy reached the bus stop.

- Hi guys - Stan greeted looking tired.

- Hi Stan - Said Kyle - Everything's okay? -

- Yeah... I just couldn't sleep very well last night and today I didn't heard the clock and woke up late... - Replied his friend catching his breath.

Kyle gave him a worried look and was about to say something just when the bus came and they got inside and into their usual seats.

During the rest of the day, Kyle tried to talk to Stan about why he was looking so tired, but the other boy would just tell him that everything was good. The red haired boy didn't wanted to pry too much on that, feeling that maybe his friend just didn't wanted to talk about it then and that maybe he should just give him some space. After school, the boys returned to their houses as usual and Kyle thought that he would just try to talk with Stan whenever he could find a quiet moment to do it, so the other boy could feel more comfortable about talking.

February 4

The next morning Kyle woke up in a pretty good mood, that day was Eric's birthday and he felt really excited about it. He got ready pretty quickly and headed to the bus stop. On the way, he met up with Stan, who was looking a little better than the day before, which made Kyle feel a little better too and so he asked him - Hey, wanna talk about yesterday? I know that you weren't just tired... -

Stan looked at him and sighed - You're right... I'm sorry, I just didn't wanted to talk about it then... - The black haired boy looked forward and continued - I've been thinking a lot about Wendy and I... I've tried everything I could think of to be alright again, but nothing seems to work... Yesterday I really thought about ending the relationship... - Stan's words came out more sad than he had intended to.

Kyle looked at him worried and sad about that - I'm sorry Stan... Are you sure that there's nothing else to do? -

- I don't know... - Replied Stan trying not let his voice to break - Maybe I should give it one more try... But I can't take being like this any longer... It's really affecting me... -

- It shows - Said Kyle gently putting a hand on his friend's shoulder - Maybe you should tell her exactly this... That this situation is harming you and that you really want to look for a solution, and that if that's not possible, tell her that you can't keep living like this... -

- You're right... - Replied Stan sighing defeated - I'll give it one more try and that's it... -

- I'm really sorry about telling you this Stan - Said Kyle with sincerity - But if a relationship is hurting you like this, sometimes is better to end it... -

- I know... And if it were any of you guys in this situation I would say the same... - Said the black haired boy - But to me it seems so hard to do it... -

- Of course - Replied the red haired boy - When somethings affects you personally, everything looks harder... But I know that you can go trough this. And we'll be here for anything that you need -

Stan smiled a little - Thanks dude -

Kyle smiled back and they kept walking in silence until they reached the bus stop.

Eric and Kenny were already there and both boys greeted them - Hey guys -

- Hey - Replied Kenny.

- Hi - Said Eric.

Kyle looked at him and smiling said - Happy birthday Eric -

Stan also smiled to Eric and said - Happy birthday dude -

The chubby boy blushed a little and said a little shyly - Thanks guys... -

- He gets all shy now but just a couple of minutes ago he was all loudmouthed about how he's the oldest of us all already... - Said Kenny with a smirk.

- Well... I am... - Replied Eric making a snobbish face - You should respect your elders... -

- Just for a month dumbass - Said the blond boy - I'll catch you in no time -

- Oh, but it's gonna be a looong month - Remarked the chubby boy, exaggerating his fake expression.

Kyle and Stan chuckled and soon the other two boys joined them. After a moment Kyle said - Eric... I'll give you your present at the party on Saturday okay? -

The bigger boy blushed and replied - You didn't needed to get me anything... Really -

- We all wanted to give you something dude - Said Stan smiling - It's your birthday after all, you're supposed to give a present on your friend's birthdays... -

- Yeah... Although I'm relieved that I wasn't the only one who thought about giving it to you on Saturday... - Said Kenny.

Eric's face lightened up with a beaming smile - Thanks guys. I really wasn't expecting you to get me anything. I'm more than happy to just have you all as my friends right now -

- Dude, you're getting too mellow now... - Chuckled Kenny - Maybe I should just slap some sense into you... -

- You can try whenever you want little kid - Chuckled Eric too.

- I would have brought some popcorn if I had knew that things would get interesting today - Laughed Stan.

- Don't worry, I don't want to give the guy a black eye on his birthday... - Kenny grinned.

- And I don't want to spend my birthday at the hospital looking after your sorry hide - Replied Eric with a smirk.

Despite the somewhat harsh words, Kyle could see that no one was really in the mood for a fight. In fact it was totally the opposite. Just a few months ago, a conversation like that one would have ended most likely with him and Eric on the ground punching each other... The red haired boy felt really glad that he and the chubby boy had exchanged the punches for hugs and kind words lately.

The bus finally came and they got inside to head over to school.

Later that day, after they had sat at their usual table in the cafeteria, Eric asked - So, I take it that you'll be at my house this Saturday right? -

- Of course - Replied Kyle - Just tell us the time you want us to be there -

- Well... I was thinking that maybe you could go at 8 pm... - Replied the chubby boy.

- Sounds good - Said Kenny.

- Sure - Replied Stan.

They continued having lunch, talking about that weekend's party. After they finished and headed to the classroom, Eric patted Kyle's shoulder and said - Hey, got a minute? -

- Sure - Replied the red haired boy and motioned to Stan and Kenny to go ahead. They continued walking and Kyle said - What is it? -

- Well... - The brown haired boy said with his cheeks starting to get red - I was wondering if you maybe wanted to spend the night at my house after the party this Saturday... -

Kyle smiled to him and replied - I would love to. But I gotta ask my parents... -

- Of course - Said Eric smiling wide - That's why I wanted to ask you with enough time... -

- I'll ask them today after school -

- Sweet - Said Eric excited - I hope it doesn't bother you to spend so many nights with me... - Eric added looking away.

- What are you talking about? - Asked Kyle - I love to spend the nights with you -

Eric's face fully blushed and looked at his friend with a warm brightness on his hazel eyes - I love to spend the nights with you too... -

The red haired boy smiled wide to his friend - Then it's settled - With that, they continued walking to the classroom and got ready to have their next class.

The rest of the day passed by and after school ended, Kyle headed home as usual. When he got there he went straight to ask his father about his plans for the weekend. Mr. Broflovski was in the living room, watching T.V. and Kyle sat next to him. After greeting him the red haired boy said - Dad, today was Eric's birthday and he's doing a party to celebrate it this Saturday... I would like to go... -

His father looked at him and said - Sure, I see nothing wrong with that -

- Thanks - Smiled Kyle - And... Well... He said that we could stay the night there too... - He added the "we" trying not to sound so obvious about he spending the night alone with the other boy. His father looked at him with the same look from the other night during dinner and replied - Well... I don't have any problems with that... But for that you know that you have to ask your mother also... -

The red haired boy's look turned a little worried but just said - Sure dad. I know. I'll ask her too... -

Kyle had hoped that it all could be solved by only asking his father, who was always much more accessible to that kind of stuff than his mother. But he decided not to despair yet, everything could still go well.

During that night's dinner, the whole family was eating together and Kyle thought that it could be a good moment to ask his mother about the weekend - Mom... This Saturday there's going to be a party at Eric's house because of his birthday. I already asked dad and he said I could go... -

- It's alright honey - Replied his mother barely looking at him, still eating.

- Well... - Continued Kyle hesitantly - Eric asked if I could stay the night there too... I mean... We all are going to stay... -

Mrs. Broflovski looked at him for a moment and the red haired boy feared that he had messed it up by asking just like that. Kyle's mother looked at her husband and said - And this is okay with you too? -

- Yes honey - Replied Mr. Broflovski - But I told him to ask you first -

She sighed and looking back at her son said - Do you promise to have all your homework done before the party? -

- Of course mom - Replied Kyle.

- Then I think there's no harm in letting you go... - Said his mother - But I don't want this to become a habit... -

- They're just kids honey - Said Mr. Broflovski - They want to be with their friends as long as they can... -

- As long as he doesn't neglect his studies and doesn't behave incorrectly... - Replied Kyle's mother.

- I won't do that mom - Said Kyle smiling. He felt really happy about having their permission to spend the weekend with Eric.

The next day, when Kyle confirmed to Eric that he was allowed to spend the night with him, the chubby boy's face lighted up and then spent the rest of the week in a great mood.

February 7

Saturday finally came and Kyle woke up pretty excited about that afternoon. He got up early and made an effort to get all his homework done during the morning.

At 5:30 pm he started to get ready for the party. Kyle knew that it was pretty early, but he wanted to have a little extra time just to make sure everything was ready. After taking a shower Kyle picked his best casual clothes, a pair of dark jeans and a dark green buttoned shirt. The day seemed to have gotten a little cold, so he put on a light gray jumper and waited at the living room couch till it was time to leave.

Around 7 pm Kyle decided that it was time to go and went to his room to take Eric's birthday present. He wanted to give it to him a little early and so, after putting on his jacket Kyle left the house. After a 20 or so minute walk, he reached Eric's house and rang the bell. Just after a moment, the door opened and Kyle was surprised to see that who had opened it, wasn't the chubby boy but his mother. The red haired boy stood silent for a moment and then heard Mrs. Cartman telling him to come in - You're pretty early, no one else has arrived still -

Kyle entered the house in silence. He was feeling a mix of surprise and something that it was starting to turn into anger. How could he be that surprised? It was her house after all and it was her son's birthday, he should have known that she was going to be there. But then, looking at her, all of what Eric had told him about his past suddenly came to Kyle's mind as the eruption of a fiery volcano.

Kyle hadn't seen Eric's mother in quite a lot of time since his friend had told him about all the things he had to endure before and for that, Kyle hadn't had to deal with this earlier. But then, Kyle realized that if he wanted Eric to be his friend, he would have to frequently see the person that had destroyed his friend's life. The red haired boy didn't knew what to do or say and just remained silent, trying not to glare at Eric's mother, if that could be called a mother...

Thankfully, just a few seconds later, Kyle saw Eric coming out of the kitchen - Someone came already? - And when the chubby boy saw Kyle, his face lightened up and with a big smile said - Kyle! How are you? -

- Hi Eric - Replied Kyle, trying to cool his anger towards his friend's mother and smiling to him.

- Dude, you came really early - Chuckled Eric.

- Yeah... I wanted to come before anybody else... - Replied the red haired boy, the sound of Eric's voice calmed him down a little and so he decided to focus on it - I thought that maybe I could give you a hand with everything -

- You didn't needed to - Said the brown haired boy smiling - I got almost everything set already. But thanks - Eric's smile was warm and tender. But then, his expression hardened as he looked at his mother - Could you look after what I left in the oven for a moment? - Eric asked with a polite but cold tone.

- Sure - replied Mrs. Cartman sounding nice and smiling awkwardly to his son a little.

Kyle couldn't help but to glare a little to her when she turned away and it seemed that Eric noticed because he asked - Hey, it's everything okay? -

Kyle snapped from his own thoughts and looked at his friend - Sure -

- Wanna go to my room for a moment? So you can leave your stuff there... - Said Eric.

- Okay - Replied Kyle still uneasy but grateful that the tension had been defused a little.

The boys went upstairs and when they got into Eric's room, the boy closed the door and looked at his friend. With a serious tone said - Kyle... I know what's happening -

- What? - Asked Kyle a little surprised by that.

- I know that you're mad at my mother... -

- I... - Started Kyle feeling nervous.

- Dude, you were practically killing her with your eyes... - Interrupted Eric furrowing his brow a little - There's no point in denying it - Then, Eric's look eased and he sighed - And it's probably right that you feel that way... I mean, if what happened to me had happened to you instead, I would be already in jail for killing the one responsible... But, I don't want you to have to deal with this. That's why I asked her to leave us alone today... I thought that she wasn't going to agree but she just told me that she was going to help me get everything set up and then she was going to a friend's house nearby... - The chubby boy looked thoughtful - She's been acting strange lately... It looks like if she were trying to apologize... Anyways... I just don't want that to ruin this night, so, I want to ask you to lay that issue off, at least for today. I just want to have a nice time with you now without worries or sorrow... -

Kyle looked at his friend and thought about it, he also wanted that night to be special for the other boy and if he had to forget, at least for that day, about all that had happened then he would make the effort.

- You're right... - Said Kyle nodding - This night is meant for you to have a great time and I'll do anything for it to be that way -

Eric smiled wide at his friend - Thanks Kyle -

Kyle smiled too and for the first time he noticed his chubby friend's attire. Eric was wearing a pair of blue jeans, a red square patterned shirt and a blue vest on top. Kyle couldn't help but to think that Eric was looking really handsome and felt his cheeks getting warmer. With a soft voice Kyle said - Hey... You're looking great today... -

Eric blushed too and looking away with a smile said - Thanks... You're looking gorgeous too... -

Kyle chuckled shyly - Thanks - And then, he suddenly widened his eyes a little and said - Oh... By the way... - Kyle grabbed his backpack and opening it, took out a package wrapped in red bright paper with a teal gift bow on it - Happy birthday Eric - Kyle said handing the package to his friend.

The chubby boy grabbed it with a big smile on his face and somewhat hesitant hands - Thanks Kyle, you didn't have to get me anything... -

- Just open it - Replied Kyle smiling at him

Eric slowly and carefully, like if it was a delicate and precious item, started to unwrap the package. When the paper had been removed all the way he held the gift in his hand looking at it in silence. It was a stuffed green frog with a huge head and big comical eyes. It's mouth was a little open and the tongue was sticking out. On it's chest there was what looked like the final stitches of the toy that had been left standing out, probably on purpose.

Eric looked at the stuffed animal for a long time in silence, his expression undecipherable to Kyle, until the chubby boy started to laugh.

Kyle was taken aback from that reaction. His first thought was that Eric hadn't liked the gift and that made a feeling of sadness and disappointment to grow inside him. But then, hearing at the other boy's laughter, the feeling turned into something worse... With horror in his heart Kyle thought "This is it, finally the moment when this whole charade falls down has come" He started to think about how a huge idiot he had been for trusting in Cartman. The guy was clearly laughing at his attempt of making a meaningful and love filled gift to him, because that meant that Kyle had finally fallen for him...

As a deep frown was forming over Kyle's eyes, and the anger was starting to build up inside him, mostly against himself for letting the other boy deceive him, something happened that threw the red haired boy off balance internally. Eric was slowly trading the laughter for a sob, and then Kyle saw that the hazel eyes of the boy were starting to get filled with tears. Eric looked at Kyle and with tears running down his cheeks he suddenly jumped forward and wrapping his arms around Kyle, Eric hugged him with a force that almost left the red haired boy without air.

Kyle was astounded by that reaction, but then he heard the other boy saying between sobs - It's... Claud... Fraugh... -

The red haired boy couldn't help but to let out a slight chuckle at the sound of Eric saying the Clyde Frog's name like he used to when they were little. Then he felt even more stupid realizing that he had so easily lost his trust on the chubby boy over a prejudice. That made him feel really bad about himself but tried to amend it by telling to himself to be more cautious in the future about thinking ahead of things. Then, he managed to wrap his own arms around the chubby boy, hugging him back.

After a long moment, Eric's embrace hadn't eased his grip on Kyle and the red haired boy was starting to have real trouble to breath. He managed to say - Eric... I can't breath really well... -

Eric lifted his head surprised and quickly released his friend, with his face completely red he chuckled a little - Sorry about that... -

- It's okay - Smiled Kyle, trying to catch some air - So... I take it that you liked your present... -

- Like it? - Asked Eric with a huge and sincere smile on his face and his eyes beaming with a light that Kyle had rarely seen on them - I love it! -

- I was meaning to give it to you last year, after I found out how you destroyed the original Clyde Frog trying to prove you were a grown up... - Said Kyle.

Eric blushed even harder and looked away a little - That was a stupid thing... - Said quietly.

- I thought that you would like to have it back, after all, it's good to have our childhood friends with us, even after growing up... - Continued Kyle - But then, we had that huge fight a week before your birthday and I didn't wanted to come to your party... - He looked down a little apologetically.

- So, you kept it all this time? - Asked Eric with wide eyes.

- Yeah... - Replied Kyle, blushing a little - Guess it was to remind me to keep my hope of we being real friends someday... -

Eric remained silent for a moment, with his mouth slightly agape. Then he looked again to the toy in his hands and caressing it softly smiled and said - Thank you Kyle - Raising his view, Eric stared at his friend's green eyes with a warm and sincere look and said - It's by far the best gift that anyone has given to me -

Kyle felt his heart warming at the sight of the big and sincere smile on the chubby boy's face and slowly getting closer to him, Kyle wrapped his arms around Eric and said - I'm really happy that you liked it -

Eric hugged him back, pulling the boy closer to himself and said - This is already the best birthday of my life... -

Kyle smiled and separated a little to look at his friend's hazel eyes, he felt his heart melted by those warm and beautiful eyes. Kyle lowered his gaze and stared for a second at Eric's lips. As if a fiery volcano were erupting inside him, Kyle felt the growing need to kiss the soft and inviting lips of the chubby boy. But again, his insecurities played him a dirty move and the need started to turn into fear. Trying to fight that with all his might, Kyle managed to quickly, before his mind had any time to stop him, land a soft kiss on Eric's chubby left cheek. The kiss just lasted for a second, but Kyle's face was as red as his hair when he separated to see that Eric had an almost comical look of absolute astonishment on his face. The brown haired boy slowly touched the spot on his cheek were Kyle had kissed it and looking at Kyle's eyes, a huge smile appeared on his face and said quietly - It just got even better... -

Kyle looked at him and chuckled a little still blushing hard - It's not such a big thing... -

Eric looked at Kyle and replied with a serious but tender tone - To me it is... -

The red haired boy blushed even harder and looked away shyly - Well... It was for me too... -

Eric hugged Kyle tightly for a moment again and then, gently let him go - I'm gonna put this little guy in a safe place... - Eric said looking at the stuffed frog - Don't want him to get hurt... - The husky boy walked towards his bed and lifting the covers, gently placed the toy over the pillow and covered its body until only the head was visible while saying, a little to Kyle but mostly to himself - I'll treasure him always... -

Kyle felt his heart melting again by that and couldn't help but to think that he was really moved by this tender side Eric was showing him and he was starting to feel the need to stay by Eric's side, caring for him.

The chubby boy turned again to face his friend and smiling said - Thanks again Kyle. It really means a lot to me... -

- Don't thank me Eric - Replied Kyle - I wanted to give you something meaningful to... - He blushed - Well, to show you that I really care about you and... About... us... -

Eric got closer to the red haired boy and gently cupped the boy's cheek with his hand and caressing it with his thumb - You're really sweet Kyle... - The red haired boy let out a sigh, trying to ease the steam he felt growing inside him at the touch of Eric's hand on his face.

After a moment, Eric lowered his hand and caressing Kyle's arm said - Want to come downstairs? There's still some stuff to get ready... -

- Sure - Replied Kyle although what he really wanted was to spend just a little more time like that with Eric. Still, he knew that there would be a whole night to spend next to his chubby friend later and that thought felt so good...

The boys left the room and headed downstairs to finish the preparations for the party. When they reached the kitchen, Eric's mother was pulling a tray out of the oven and then placed the chicken nuggets that had been cooking, on a big plate. Kyle tried to not to think about her and instead turned his attention to the assortment of food that was laying on the various places around the kitchen. There was another plate with nuggets aside the one that was fresh out of the oven, there were also two big plates with pizza already cut out, two trays with mini sandwiches with various fillings and a lot of bowls with chips, crackers, and of course, cheese puffs, Eric's favorites.

- Wow, there's a lot of food - Said Kyle amazed.

- Yeah... And you haven't seen the sweet stuff yet... - Replied Eric a little smugly - I was thinking about doing something smaller, since it's gonna be just us, but Kenny kept telling me that one could never know when more people would show up... So I made or ordered all this... - He grinned - Anyways, I won't complain if there's left overs... A little extra food is never a bad thing -

Kyle chuckled a little at that, Kenny was right the other day after all... The chubby boy walked around the kitchen and said - Looks like the only thing left is to get all this into the dining room... -

- I'll help you - Said Kyle grabbing the tray closest to him.

- Thanks - Smiled Eric.

The boys started to carry all the food to the next room and placed it on the big table. After that, there were some time left still before the party began, so they went to the living room and sat on the couch to watch T.V.

The clock on the wall told them that it was 8 pm and Eric was looking a little nervous. Kyle was going to say something reassuring when Mrs. Cartman appeared and said - Eric, everything is ready. Are you sure you don't want me to stay? -

- Yes mom. We'll be fine - Replied Eric not taking his eyes from the T.V.

Kyle saw a slight look of disappointment on Mrs. Cartman's eyes - Okay. Take care. I'll be near if you need me -

Eric nodded and his mother left without saying anything else. Kyle felt really uneasy with the whole situation, but he had promised not to talk about it.

Just a couple of minutes after that, the doorbell rang and Eric practically jumped from the couch to answer it. Standing outside the door there was Stan, who smiled at Eric and said - Hey dude. Happy birthday - And handed a rectangular package wrapped in teal paper with a red gift bow to the chubby boy.

Eric took the gift and smiling said - Thanks dude! Come on in -

Stan entered the house and hanged his jacket while Eric was closing the door.

- Hey - Greeted Kyle.

- Hi Kyle - Greeted Stan - I figured you'd be the first one here... -

- He came pretty early - Remarked Eric smiling.

- Dude, open it already - Said Stan smiling and pointing to the gift that the chubby boy still had on his hands.

Eric blushed a little and started to unwrap the present. Taking the paper out of the way, he saw that there were two DVD boxes with two discs on each with the entire Full Metal Alchemist Series on them.

The chubby boy looked at his friend with bright eyes and said - Dude! This is great! How did you knew I liked this series? -

- Well... I had a little help there... - Replied Stan winking at Kyle who blushed a little.

Eric looked at them with a big smile - Thank you. I love it! - Then he motioned them to the couch - Want something to drink while we wait? -

- Sure - Replied Stan - Soda would be fine -

- Same for me - Said Kyle.

- I'll be right back - Said Eric and headed to his bedroom to leave the gift from Stan on the nightstand and then went to the kitchen to fetch the drinks.

- So, how's everything going? - Said Stan while they waited - What did you got him? -

- Remember that last year I was going to give him a Clyde Frog because he had broken his own? - Replied Kyle, Stan nodded - Well, I never got to give it to him because we had fought, but now I thought that it could be a nice gesture... I wanted to show him that I think about him... - Kyle said that last sentence as he blushed a little.

Stan chuckled a little - Dude, he's really getting into you... - Kyle blushed harder - But I think that it was indeed a good gift for him... Did he liked it? - Asked Stan.

- Well... At first I feared that he hadn't... - Replied Kyle, and looking down said - He started to laugh and so I thought that finally the ruse had come to an end... But then he started to sob and hugged me really tight, thanking me for it... - Kyle sighed sadly - I felt like garbage for losing my trust in him so quickly... He was just too moved from the gift and that's why he reacted like that... -

- Dude, don't beat yourself for this - Said Stan putting his hand on his friend's shoulder - It's understandable that you felt like that faced with such an odd reaction... After all, too little time has passed since he would lie all the time, for you to throw away that instinctive response... -

- I know - Said Kyle looking at Stan - But still I think I should try harder... -

- And you are Kyle - Replied the black haired boy reassuringly - We all are, but this is a thing that only time can really heal -

- You're right... - Said Kyle, then he smiled remembering what Eric had done after he had gave him the toy - He's being really sweet you know? I never imagined that he could be so tender... -

- That's a surprise alright - Replied Stan smiling - But then, we're talking about Eric Cartman after all, the guy is filled with surprises -

They both chuckled a little and then Eric appeared carrying a big bottle of light soda and three glasses. The boy served the drinks for everyone and when he was about to join his friends on the couch the doorbell rang again and he went to answer the door.

This time the one standing outside was Kenny, who greeted him with a big smile - Hey Eric! Happy birthday - And like Stan, he also handed the chubby boy his present.

- Hey Kenny - Replied Eric smiling - Come in -

The blond boy got inside and took off his parka while Eric closed the door. Kyle and Stan went to where Kenny was and greeted him.

- Hey guys - Said Kenny, then he looked at Eric and smiling said - Dude open your present already -

- You didn't had to get me anything Kenny... - Started the chubby boy.

- Man, you're annoying sometimes... - Interrupted the blond boy playfully - Just shut up and open it -

Eric smiled to him and opened the wrapping, he stared at the microphone with his mouth agape for a moment and then looking at Kenny surprised said - Kenny you... This must have been really... -

- Don't start with that okay? - Interrupted Kenny again - I wanted to give you something special today and I want you to accept it without a worry -

The brown haired boy smiled wide at his friend - Thanks Kenny, this is really wonderful - Then he blushed - But don't expect me to give it a try tonight... -

- Awww Don't be such a downer... - Chuckled Kenny - We all want to hear you singing again... -

Eric cocked his head to the side, a little puzzled and asked - Again? -

Kyle and Kenny looked at each other and chuckled. Eric looked at them and then at Stan - Don't look at me dude. I have no idea what's all this about - Said the black haired boy.

Eric was going to say something but the doorbell rang again and he looked at the door puzzled. Then he headed towards the door and opened it. Standing outside there were Butters and Jimmy who greeted him. The chubby boy stared at them with wide eyes and said - What are you doing here? -

- We came to your birthday party Eric - Replied Butters stuttering a little but smiling wide.

- Ye... Yeah... - Said Jimmy smiling too - You, you sound... Surprised... -

- Well... I am... - Replied Eric furrowing his brow a little - I never told you about it... I never thought you wanted to come... -

- Dude, I told you to let me handle the invitations - Eric heard Kenny saying behind him. The chubby boy turned to look at his friend and gave him a big smile, then turned around again and said - Come on in then -

Jimmy and Butters entered and Eric closed the door behind them. He took their coats and they gave him their presents. Eric took them and smiling said - Guys... After all that I've done I never thought that you would want to be here... - He looked away with a little sadness on his eyes and added - At least not without me forcing you to come... -

- We're your friends too Eric, you know? - Replied Butters smiling back - And you have changed a lot. Everyone at school have been talking about how you're being a really cool guy now... I'm happy that that has happened -

The chubby boy couldn't find words to reply due to being really moved by all that. He just smiled at them and started to unwrap the presents. Butters had gotten him a pretty nice customized new controller for his console and Jimmy's gift was a nicely printed special edition of Alan Moore's Watchmen. Eric looked at the presents totally astounded and just could manage to say - Thank you... - But it wasn't just a complimentary saying, he was just too moved to say something else, and the boys saw that he was truly grateful.

After that, they all went to the living room and Eric went to his bedroom to leave the presents on his nightstand and then returned to his friends with more glasses for all of them.

During the next hour, a lot more of Eric's classmates showed up and the chubby boy was really surprised and grateful that they all had wanted to spend that day with him.

- Told you that you were going to need a lot of food for today... - Said Kenny grinning to him.

- I thought that only the three of you were coming... - Replied Eric honestly - I mean... I thought that everyone else just hated me... Except maybe for Butters and Jimmy... -

- A lot of them resented much of your past behavior - Said Stan - But like Butters said before, everyone at school has noticed how much you've changed these past weeks -

- Yeah, they want to give you a chance here - Said Kenny - I didn't even had to convince them to come, they wanted to -

- Guess you all believe in me even more than myself... - Said Eric looking to the floor.

- You just gotta get used to this - Said Kyle with a comforting smile - And you should believe in yourself, just look around, all this people are here because you're doing a great job being nice -

Eric felt his heart as well as his cheeks warming and chuckled - I'll have to go to the kitchen now, before you all make me do something embarrassing... -

The other boys chuckled too, after all, Eric was still the tough guy of the group and didn't wanted to be seen so moved in front of that many people.

Another hour after the party started, all of them were having a great time. Some of the people were around the console, where a pretty rough tournament of Soul Calibur was taking place. Others were around the dinning table helping themselves with the various snacks available and the rest were just spread trough the whole first story of the house. Eric had asked them not to go upstairs unless they needed to go to the bathroom because in his room he was keeping the many presents that he had received and didn't wanted any of them to get broken accidentally, and his mother's room was out of the question for obvious reasons.

- Fuck this shit! - Exclaimed Eric when his character got trowed out of a ledge by Kenny's one, ending Eric's last turn - I'll go get something more to drink, you're next Butters - Eric said while getting up and handed the controller to the blond boy, who grabbed it hesitantly.

- Ok... But I'm not really into this kind of games... - Butters replied a little nervous.

- You'll do fine buddy - Smiled the chubby boy. Butters blushed a little and started to play.

Kyle watched that and then looked at Eric with his eyebrows a little raised. The chubby boy flashed him a big smile and went to the kitchen.

On his way there, Eric passed by Jimmy, who was talking to his girlfriend by the stair and asked him - Hey, have you seen Stan? He's nowhere to be found... -

- N... No... - Replied Jimmy - I have... Haven't... -

- Oh, ok. Thanks anyways - Replied Eric - Enjoying the party? - Asked to both of them.

- Sure - Replied Jimmy smiling.

The chubby boy smiled to them and continued his way to the kitchen. Once he got there, Eric opened the fridge and grabbed two bottles of soda and placing them on the kitchen counter, looked casually out the window and was surprised to see Stan sitting on a bench in the backyard.

Eric put the bottles back into the fridge and went outside the house towards where his friend was sitting. The husky boy stood next to the bench and asked - Hey dude, what are you doing out here by yourself? -

Stan slowly raised his head and looked at him. His face showed real sadness and his eyes were a little watery - I just needed to be alone... - Answered Stan with a monotone voice.

Eric frowned with concern for his friend and said - Care if I sit with you? -

The black haired boy shrugged and Eric sat next to him, remaining silent for a moment and then said - You know... I noticed that Wendy didn't came to the party... -

Stan sighed - She... Had some other stuff to do... -

Eric noticed that there was something his friend wasn't telling him and said - Dude, I don't want to be a bother to you. If you want to be left alone I get it, but at least tell me what happened. I know that you wouldn't be like this over some little thing... -

Stan remained silent for a moment and then looked forward and sighed - Wendy and I... Broke up this morning... -

Eric looked at him with wide eyes and almost yelled - What? Why? -

The black haired boy looked at him and then looked away - I don't know really... She had been really strange since a couple of weeks ago but didn't wanted to tell me why... And today we argued and I told her that if she didn't wanted to tell me what was wrong then maybe it would be better if we split up... - Stan's voice broke - And she said that that was fine with her and just left... -

Eric couldn't help but to whisper in a caustic tone - That bitch... - Then he looked at his friend and added apologetically - Sorry about that... - But Stan didn't seemed to have been bothered by that.

Stan had started to sob a little and Eric panicked, he had never consoled anyone before and wasn't sure about what to do. He hesitantly put his hand on the black haired boy's back and patted it gently saying - Hey... Cheer up... Maybe it's just a fluke... You've been always the steadier couple at school and I think that you two can work this out... -

Stan was still sobbing when he replied - I don't know... I think that this it's not like other times we have fought... -

Eric was desperately trying to think on something to say to make his friend feel better, but the words just didn't seemed appropriate. Then, he heard the door opening and looking back saw that Kyle was coming towards them.

- I've been looking for you guys. What's happening? - Asked the red haired boy standing next to his friends.

Stan kept sobbing and so Eric answered - He and Wendy broke up today... -

Kyle looked at him with wide eyes and then sat on the other side, next to Stan - Why? - He asked concerned - It was because of what you had told me? -

The black haired boy nodded but kept sobbing miserably. Kyle looked at him worried and then he looked at Eric who gave him a look that screamed "Help me, I don't know what to do". The red haired boy said looked back at Stan and said - Stan, remember what we talked about the other day? You tried to talk with her one last time? -

- I did - Replied Stan failing to stop the sobbing.

- And she still didn't wanted to tell you what was going on? - Kyle asked. Stan shook his head from side to side.

- Look - Said Kyle sighing - I know that you love her, that right now she means the whole world to you, but you can't keep crawling behind her all the time. You have to think about yourself and stand up. It's hard, I know, but if she's not willing to help solve the couple's problems, then maybe she's not caring enough, and you have to do what's better for you -

Stan stopped sobbing and raised himself a little. Taking a deep breath said - I know Kyle, it's just that I really thought that she loved me like I love her... But maybe it wasn't like that... -

- Dude - Said Eric - Maybe she just doesn't know how to tell you whatever she's having problems with... It doesn't necessarily means that she doesn't love you... On the other hand... If she knew you were feeling bad about it and didn't do anything, maybe she doesn't loves you really... -

- Dude! - Exclaimed Kyle, frowning at Eric.

- What? - Asked the chubby boy raising his eyebrows - I was trying to be objective... -

- He's right Kyle - Said Stan - She knew that I was feeling like shit and she didn't bothered to try and tell me whatever the hell was going on... -

- I know... - Replied Kyle - But even if it's like that, your priority right now should be pulling yourself together and try to regain your strength. Whether it be to talk to her about this again or to start making your own life without her. Whatever you do just remember that we're here for you -

Stan looked at his friends grateful and said - Thank you. I really needed to get this out of me... I'll... Try to move on... I don't want to ruin your party after all - Said looking at Eric and giving him a half smile.

The chubby boy got up and extending his hand in front of Stan said - What you need right now is to get those dark thoughts out of your mind and have some fun with your friends -

Stan looked at him and smiling fully, grabbed Eric's hand and the chubby boy hauled him to his feet easily. Then patting on the black haired boy's shoulder, Eric said - Now, get yourself ready because we have to kick Kenny's ass on the tournament. I can't stand his heinous grin every time he wins... -

Stan chuckled while wiping the tears from his eyes - Sure. I'm up for it -

Kyle stood up too and walked by his friends. He saw the chubby boy looking at him with a smile and he smiled back. Even with the sadness of the whole situation, Kyle felt really happy that those two were getting along really fine and helping each other.

The boys went back inside and into the living room. In no time they were all having a great time again and after the tournament, which was won by Kenny, despite the ruthless efforts from Eric and Stan to overthrow him, they decided to put a movie for anyone who wasn't in the mood for the dancing that was happening in the reception area. Of course, the movie area quickly got filled by the various couples that had been formed trough that year and so Kyle and his friends went to the dinning room to keep talking and having fun. For a moment, the red haired boy wanted to just lay on the couch, snuggling with Eric, like many others were doing, but he didn't dare even to ask for it. Maybe if Kyle had hinted that, the bigger boy would have just dragged him there and hugged him happily, not caring if anyone said anything about it. But Kyle wasn't ready for that kind of exposure. He still was pretty afraid that someone might notice that he was gay, doing that looked just like a social suicide to him. Despite the words of support from his friends, Kyle was still too much aware of the outside view and opinion to do something like that. So he just settled with sitting next to Eric, enjoying spending such a great time with him and his other friends.

After the movie had ended, Eric called everyone to cut the cake and the rest of the sweet stuff he had for that night. The chubby boy argued for a moment against everyone singing the "Happy Birthday" to him in front of the candles, but then he just said "Whatever..." and sat in front of the cake with his face completely red and a look of embarrassment, but Kyle noticed that Eric was smiling and he looked happy to have so many people around him that day. The red haired boy's heart melted with the image of the bigger boy looking so cute and happy and decided to take a picture with his cellphone. He really wanted that moment to last for the future.

After cutting the cake and the rest of the sweets, everyone just sat down for a while, trying to get a moment of rest. Specially the ones that had been immersed on the dancing, including Kenny, who had been coming and going from the dinning room to the dance floor trying to pick at least one kiss for that night. His friends would chuckle every time Kenny came back and told them about the advances he was making, but in the end, Kenny wasn't lucky that day and during the last song previous to the cutting of the cake, he remained with his friends, talking with them.

Around midnight, everyone started to slowly leave, some of them lived far away and so the party couldn't last until too late. Butters was the last to leave, aside from the four closest friends. After his father came for him, the boys said their goodbyes to Butters and then Kyle said - Well... Looks like it's time to pick everything up -

- You don't have to - Replied Eric - I can take care of this tomorrow -

- We want to help - Said Kenny.

The chubby boy smiled at them - Thanks -

They put order to the house in no time, thankfully it wasn't nearly as messed up as they had imagined it would be. Pointing that out Kyle said - See? This is because there wasn't any alcohol at this party... Nobody made a mess or broke anything... -

- You're never gonna drop that? - Complained Kenny - I already said I was sorry for bringing those bottles from my father's stash... - He grinned - Besides, you wanted to try it too -

Kyle blushed, remembering that in fact, nobody had forced him to drink that much. Kenny saw his face and chuckled - Relax dude, it's not gonna happen again, or at least, we'll take care of you if you get as wasted as then -

- I'm not taking that stuff ever again for the rest of my life... - Replied Kyle disgusted.

- You don't need it - Said Eric chuckling a little - You're cooler as you are now... - Then he winked to Kenny - Besides, we're gonna need someone to drive us home... -

- That's not funny - Kyle frowned at him.

- I'm just joking - The bigger boy gave him a big smile that made Kyle's frown to immediately disappear. Kyle realized that it was starting to be impossible for him to stay mad at the chubby boy when he smiled like that. Kyle blushed a little and looked away.

- Hey Stan - Said Eric changing the subject - How are you feeling now? -

- A little better - Stan replied - Thanks. I really had fun and it took my mind from all that shit that happened earlier... -

- But... - Asked Kyle noticing that his friend's expression was turning a little gloom again.

- I'll have to get by her house on the way home... - Replied the black haired boy .

- That's it - Exclaimed Eric - You're staying here tonight. I can't let you walk out being like this -

Kyle looked at Eric and the chubby boy shrugged a little and gave him an apologizing look. Kyle obviously didn't wanted Stan to leave if he was feeling bad, and after all, it wasn't that bad that he would spend the night with them.

- Really? - Asked Stan hesitantly - I mean... I don't want to be a bother... - He said that looking at Kyle. It was obvious that Stan had figured out about Kyle spending the night with Eric. It was Eric's birthday after all and if there was a night that he would wanted to spend with Kyle it was this one.

- You're not gonna be a bother - Replied Kyle smiling - We know that you need help and we want to be here for you -

- Thanks... - Smiled the black haired boy - I really appreciate it -

- You can stay too Kenny - Said Eric patting the blond boy's back - The more the better in this situations -

- Sure - Smiled the blond boy.

- It's settled then - Said the chubby boy - Want to play a little more before hitting the sack? -

- Sounds nice - Replied Stan nodding.

- Of course - Said Kenny - I even may let you win this time... -

- We'll see about that - Replied Eric with a grin.

The boys returned to the living room, after Stan and Kenny both phoned their parents about spending the night at Eric's house and sat on the couch. Stan on the left end with Kenny beside him, then Eric and on the other end sat Kyle. Eric set the console and they started to play.

Kyle was feeling a little dizzy already but didn't said anything and just tried his best to play with the others. After half an hour though, he felt his eyelids getting heavier and he reclined a little on Eric's side, with his head on the chubby boy's shoulder.

Eric noticed that and said quietly - Looks like we have a man down... -

The others looked at them and Kyle, who had his eyes closed but wasn't asleep yet and understanding that Eric was talking about him, said - I'm ok... Just needed to rest my eyes a little... -

- It's understandable having such a comfy pillow beside you... - Said Kenny with a smirk.

Stan chuckled and Eric hit the blond boy on the chest playfully with the back of his hand. Kyle opened his eyes and stood straight letting out a small yawn - Sorry guys... -

- Don't apologize - Said Eric warmly - It's pretty late after all -

- Yeah... - Said Stan - We should probably get some rest - He looked at the chubby boy - How are we gonna do it? Want me to stay here at the couch? -

- No way - Replied Eric - You're staying so we can keep you company. I'm not gonna make you sleep down here. We all still fit in my room -

- I didn't came prepared - Said Kenny.

- Dude, we're all guys here - Replied the brown haired boy - And we're friends. There's nothing to be ashamed of right? -

- You're right - Replied Kenny smiling.

Eric looked at Kyle, who had remained silent for a while and saw that the red haired boy had his eyes closed again. He smiled and quietly whispered to Kyle's ear - Will I have to carry you all the way upstairs? -

Kyle opened his eyes a little startled and blushed - No... I'm awake... -

The other boys chuckled and then they all got up and headed to Eric's room, after they each took a turn on the bathroom. When they entered the bedroom Eric said - Let's see... I got a mattress here and another one that I can bring in, and my bed is big enough for two of us... -

Kenny looked at Kyle with a grin and the red haired boy blushed and looked away. Stan chuckled looking at them and said - Kenny and I will take the mattresses of course-

- Yeah, yeah... - Replied Kenny with a faking to be upset.

Eric shook his head from side to side, but with a smile on his lips and went to look for the mattress that was in the closet outside the bedroom.

He returned in no time and all of them got to prepare the mattresses for Stan and Kenny to sleep on them. Eric gave them blankets and covers and in no time the three beds were ready. The boys got ready to sleep, Eric and Kyle changed to their pajamas and Kenny and Stan just remained with their underwear and shirts.

Kyle blushed hard when he got inside Eric's bed. His friends already knew that he had slept with the chubby boy before, but it was quite different to actually do it in front of them.

- Everyone's ready? I'm gonna shut down the lights - Said Eric.

- Sure - Replied Stan, then chuckled - Just... Keep it down if you two want to get too cozy with each other... -

Kyle blushed harder and exclaimed - Stan! -

- Hey, let me know if you get freaky... - Added Kenny.

Stan chuckled again - Dude, don't be an idiot -

- What? - Replied the blond boy - I just want to enjoy a good show when there's one... -

- You're both being idiots - Said Kyle trying to sound mad at them but chuckling. He felt Eric getting into bed next to him and could hear him chuckling quietly - You too? -

- Sorry... - Replied the chubby boy - Don't listen to them... - Eric Said and put his arm around the smaller boy's body, resting his hand on Kyle's chest.

The red haired boy was still quite embarrassed about doing that with his other friends in the room, but feeling the warmth of the bigger boy on his back he just let it go and snuggled closer to his friend, grabbing the big hand and making their fingers to intertwine.

- Good night guys - Kyle said to his friends.

- Good night - Replied Kenny and Stan.

- Sweet dreams - Kyle heard the chubby boy whispering into his ear.

Kyle felt like goosebumps with that and replied quietly - Sweet dreams -

Slowly, the room began to get filled with the sound of the four boy's steady breathing as they drifted into sleep.

***Another chapter is up ^^ This time I wanted to put some more fluffiness into this story but in the end couldn't help but to put some sadness in it s well... Poor Stan, I had to do that to him because of reasons...

***Again, this chapter was solely edited by myself and I would love to hear if you have some corrections that could be made. I'm trying my best to improve my English writing skills... Aside from that, I hope that you have enjoyed this chapter and stay tuned for more ^^

***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.

***Chapter title's song is Return to innocence by Enigma