Chapter 24 "Noct? It's been like... a whole minute, and you haven't said anything at all. You're kind of freaking me out," Prompto said, with a nervous laugh. Noctis lowered his head, forehead crinkled with apology.
"R-right, um... Sorry about that."
"So... you got an answer for me?" Prompto asked, pushing forth a sheepish smile. Noctis' eyes darted to the side, far from Prompto's gaze.
"I want to give you an answer, Prom. Really, I do. But can you give me some time? Let me think about it?"
"O-oh. Of course," Prompto said, acknowledging that this wasn't a decision Noctis could simply take lightly. If Noct did somehow end up causing him harm, Prompto knew that guilt would stay with Noct until the end of his days.
Let me think about it. That's what Noctis had said. That had been his vague answer to Prompto's question. And even though it was just about the only thing on Prompto's mind since their conversation the night before, he continued to fight against the urge to push the matter further as they spent the day exploring Tenebrae, as he snapped photos of the intricate buildings and stunning landscapes, and as they drove out of the courtyard after their meeting with the nation's small government.
"That was... something," Noct said, voice wary as he steered the car back onto the main road. He glanced at Prompto who sat in the passenger's seat, elbow resting on the car door as he absently bit at his knuckle. Prompto blinked, clearly distracted as his head snapped to the left to look at Noctis.
"Huh? Oh, yeah. It was kind of weird, wasn't it?"
"Yeah. Total contrast to our meeting in Niflheim. Marcus was so warm and welcoming. These guys... I don't know. I got a weird vibe from them, did you?" Noctis asked, frowning.
"Kind of. In their defense, they weren't expecting our visit. Maybe next time we should set up an appointment first. At least give them a heads-up that we're coming," Prompto shrugged, turning his gaze back to the window, teeth sinking back into his poor, dented knuckle.
"Yeah, I guess. I hope that was all," Noctis said, not quite sounding at ease.
"They did warm up to us after a bit, though, didn't you find? They liked the idea of the 'Day of the Oracle'. And they said they would consider our offer for a trade system," Prompto reminded him.
"That's true. I just... I hope they realize how badly we want peace. And how badly we want to be of help to them."
When he was met with silence, Noctis glanced at Prompto again. He looked to be in deep thought, the corners of his mouth turned down slightly. Noctis was sure he knew what this was about, and understood why Prompto's thoughts might be elsewhere. He also knew why Prompto wasn't saying a word about their conversation from the night before in the hotel; he was downright sick of being rejected, and Noctis couldn't blame him for that.
"Hey, um, you wanna talk? About last night?" Noct cautiously tried.
"No, not really," Prompto admitted, pushing the corner of his mouth into a weak smile.
"You sure?"
"Yeah." Prompto turned his head towards Noctis, taking in those kind and gentle eyes, that cautious expression. As frustrated as he was, he still couldn't let himself be angry with Noctis, because his every move was made out of love. "You've been doing so much for me. This whole trip has been amazing, and I'm really grateful, Noct. Seriously, I am, and... I don't want to ruin it by talking about that anymore."
"Ruin it..." Noct repeated, with a sad frown, absolutely hating that the peace of this trip could be shattered so easily.
"N-not ruin," Prompto corrected himself, appearing sorry. "Just... put a damper on things, I guess? But hey, I'm just as guilty for putting a damper on things, especially after yesterday."
Noctis swallowed hard, wishing he could forget their conversation about Prompto's inheritance. He hated the ways in which Prompto's condition could put this strain on them, this discomfort between them. He hated how even in these moments where they were together and everything was supposed to be beautiful and joyful and good, it could leave them feeling so full of grief and despair and disappointment.
Yes, the conversation about the inheritance had been more painful than Noctis had been prepared for, but Noctis was starting to feel even more sickened by how hurtful it must have been for Prompto to be pushed away at every request for intimacy.
Prompto truly was grateful for this trip—Noctis knew that. But it was becoming more and more clear that he was withholding that which perhaps meant the most to Prompto. If Prompto wanted to be close to him—close and intimate and physical—should Noctis really be denying him that? Even if it was a risk, was it fair for Noct to be making this decision for him? Taking the choice right out of his hands?Prompto could have been living his last days for all they knew, and here was Noctis, telling him they should keep their distance.
"So, we're heading back to Lucis now, right?" Prompto spoke up, intentionally redirecting the conversation. He seriously didn't want to push the issue of consummation; if he did, Noctis would probably just push back. But if he left well enough alone, then maybe—maybe—Noctis would come around.
"We don't have to. If you wanted to explore Tenebrae some more, we could do that, too." Noct tried to push past his regret as he spoke, going along with Prompto's swift change of topic.
"No, that's okay, Noct. I know that being back here... it can't be easy on you," Prompto acknowledged. Noct gave him a glance, mouth parting softly in surprise. He quickly closed it again and forced his eyes back onto the road, shoulders shrinking a little.
"Well, not exactly," he admitted. As much as he had tried to push thoughts of Luna from his mind, doing so had felt wrong in its own way.
"Then let's head back."
"Y-yeah, okay. If you're sure that's alright with you."
"Yep. I've got nothing else I need to do here. And besides, we've been away from home for almost two weeks now. A king can't abandon his duty forever. Lookin' forward to telling everyone about this, too," Prompto said, smile returning now as he gazed down at the glistening engagement ring on his finger.
He couldn't help but smile. The idea of being married to Noctis for the rest of his life filled his heart with so many feelings of comfort and elation. Waking up next to Noctis every morning, falling asleep in each other's arms every night, making decisions on their kingdom together... Prompto still felt like it was more than an average guy like him deserved, but he was beyond thankful to be so damn lucky.
"We're not going straight home, though," Noctis said, sounding sure of himself.
"We're not?" Prompto quirked a surprised brow.
"Nope. Still got a few more places I think we should hit first."
"Really? Thought we already covered most of what was on my list. Plus, you already surprised me with a few things. Like the Gralean festival, for example."
"Yeah, well, I still thought your list could use a few more items," Noct playfully winked.
Prompto stared at him a moment, completely stumped by whatever ideas Noct might have in mind. It was certainly thoughtful of him, though, to keep this trip going for as long as possible, and Prompto allowed himself to accept this gift without putting up a fight. If Noct felt they could spare a few more days away from the Citadel, then Prompto would trust that it was alright.
"Okay, then. Consider me intrigued," Prompto smirked, settling back against the headrest and letting himself relax.
Once they were back on Lucian soil, they spent a couple of nights at the Leville in Lestallum at Noctis' request. They took advantage of their time there to enjoy the nightlife—listening to musicians near the fountain, checking out the reconstructed market, and treating themselves to a few snacks from the foodstalls. Once they set out again, Noct insisted they take a rather long detour on their way back home. Prompto was suspicious of where Noctis was taking him, and when they pulled into the dirt driveway along the side of the road, he gave Noctis a questioning look.
"What?" Noct innocently shrugged. "I just thought it was a little weird that you didn't have a trip to the chocobo post on your list." To be honest, it had crossed Prompto's mind, but he hadn't wanted to bombard Noctis with too many tasks, and there had been other items on the list that had seemed like more of a priority—like visiting his parents.
"Did I tell you lately that you are the best boyfriend ever? Uh, best fiancé ever?" Prompto smirked, and Noctis leaned in, eyes half-lidded and seductive.
"Now, that one I actually haven't heard before, but I like it," he smiled, and Prompto leaned in to meet his lips. They exchanged soft gazes as they parted, and Prompto excitedly reached for the door handle.
"Shall we?"
"Yeah, let's go," Noct smiled, following Prompto's lead and getting out of the car. The farm-like smells of grain, manure, and chocobos filled the air. Prompto outstretched his arms and tilted his head back, taking it all in with a deep breath.
"I know it's weird, but I love this smell," he chuckled.
"I know you do, bird-brain," Noct teased, nudging his elbow affectionately. They proceeded side-by-side to where Wiz was dumping a bucketful of feed into one of the chocobo's corrals. He looked over as the boys approached, recognizing them despite how much they'd grown, and giving them a warm smile.
"Well, aren't you two a sight for sore eyes. Welcome back," the man greeted. He looked older, face more wrinkled and worn, but his smile was as genuine as ever.
"Thanks. It's been too long, Wiz," Noctis smiled. Prompto was already rubbing the neck of one of the nearby chocobos. The bird seemed content enough as he nuzzled Prompto's shoulder with his bright orange beak.
"Wiz, how's business going? I was worried for a bit there, back in the dark days. I wasn't seeing a whole lot of chocobos around," Prompto frowned in concern.
"There weren't for a while, but some glaives and hunters caught some birds while out on missions, and we managed to breed quite a few. Glad we managed to save the species," Wiz smiled.
Prompto scanned the line of chocobos in their corrals. There were far more colours than there used to be at the chocobo post, the usual yellow chocobos now scattered amongst greens, blues, and reds. Prompto would never forget his faithful old white chocobo that had seen him through the journey with Noct, and stood by him a few years into the world of ruin. After that, he had never come when Prompto had called, and Prompto had eventually come to assume the worst. So, he had made it a mission of his to help the other hunters capture any chocobos that crossed his path, and bring them back to the stable in Cape Caem for proper care.
Prompto's gaze continued along the line of stalls, eyes landing on a puffy-feathered, black bird. He swore he recognized those beady little eyes.
"Hey, that wouldn't be the little guy we—?" Prompto started, and Noctis followed his gaze to the last stall.
"No way. Is that the one we saved all those years ago?" Noct eagerly asked, head ducking forward to get a better peek.
"Sure is. He stuck real close to me and I was able to keep him safe through that rough decade we had there. He's even been a father to a whole bunch of black baby chocochicks who have all been happily rehomed," Wiz grinned, putting down the bucket and strolling over to the bird. He reached out for his neck and stroked it gently.
"Here, come say hi. Named him 'Prince', after a very special someone," Wiz said, with a wink. Noctis tried to hide his embarrassment, but he couldn't deny he was a little flattered.
"Well, saving him was a group effort," Noct laughed, casually, and Prompto gave him a grateful smile. The two made their way down to the stall and Wiz moved out of the way so they could give the large bird some attention.
"Hey, buddy," Noctis cooed, reaching out to stroke the chocobo's black beak. "Still hangin' in there, huh?"
"Hey, Wiz? Would you mind snapping a picture of us? Being reunited with our feathered friend seems like a moment to remember," Prompto grinned, hurrying over to give Wiz his camera.
"It'd be my pleasure," the man agreed.
Prompto showed him which button to press, and how to adjust the focus before he rushed back to stand beside the chocobo. Noct positioned himself on the chocobo's other side, and both reached up to touch the bird's feathered neck, smiling fondly.
"Say cheese!" Wiz called out.
"Cheese!"
The shutter clicked just as the bird raised its head in a cheerful kweh, making for the perfect picture. Prompto hurried back over to Wiz to relieve him of his duty.
"Thanks," Prompto grinned, taking back his camera.
"You boys feel free to wander around. Holler if you need anything," Wiz smiled, before grabbing a bucket and heading inside the barn.
Prompto clicked the back of the camera to look at the picture, and Noctis joined him after a minute, staring down to admire it. They looked so happy, so carefree; he wished things could stay like that forever, that they would never have to return to reality.
"Looks perfect," Noctis smiled.
Prompto slung his camera around his neck, and reached for Noctis' hand. Noct glanced down at their entwining fingers, and lifted a brow as he drew his eyes back to Prompto. Prompto merely gave him a tender smile, letting him know he wasn't afraid of prying eyes. Contentedly, they continued to hold hands as they walked along the row of stalls, stopping at each one to admire each chocobo's distinct colours and personalities.
After only a few minutes of being in this place, Prompto appeared so at ease. The tension that had come and gone throughout their car drive here was now gone, his face now untroubled and relaxed. He looked oddly at home with these birds—not because of his unruly 'choco-butt' hair, but because of his gentle affection for these animals as he stroked their downy feathers. Noctis suddenly found himself wanting to ask a question. He wasn't sure he wanted an answer, as he knew he couldn't change the circumstances anyway, but still, he pushed himself to speak.
"Prom? You ever wish things were different? That we could have just run away from my royal duties and lived somewhere like this? Where we could have had a chocobo farm of our own?"
Prompto stared at him, eyes widening, clearly stunned by the question. It took him several moments of staring around this ranch-like atmosphere before he could even formulate an answer. After everything they'd been through, after seeing the ins and outs of the Citadel and the duties of running a kingdom, it was actually a little difficult to picture Noctis as anything but a royal.
Prompto tried, though—tried to picture Noctis in a plaid shirt and overalls, carrying a bucket of feed to one of their giant pet birds, while Prompto scattered bedding around their feet with a pitchfork. It was an intriguing idea, but Prompto couldn't help but feel more invigorated by the image of his strong and confident king on the throne, dressed in regal attire, with his consort at his side.
"I'm sure that would have been an amazing life, too," Prompto said, with a soft laugh. "But I wouldn't trade it for what we're going to have. Our marriage, our leadership… it could change lives, could change our world for the better, like you said. I'm more excited to see that future," he promised.
Noctis looked relieved, his weak smile growing. He gave Prompto an adoring look before he leaned in to kiss him again. Prompto blinked, curiously, as Noctis slowly pulled back, for there was something glimmering in his eyes now, some tender emotion that Prompto couldn't pinpoint. Noctis cleared his throat, seeming suddenly timid.
"Pretty sure that somewhere out there, you just made my dad really proud," he said, making Prompto clue in to why that glimmer was in his eyes.
Not only did Noct think Prompto would have been in King Regis' good graces, but Noct himself was proud, too. Maybe Noct found it surprising that he would choose a life as king's consort over anything else, but for Prompto, it felt right. More right than it ever had.
"Huh, I hope so," Prompto smiled, sheepishly. He shrugged and shyly lowered his gaze, stuffing his free hand into his pocket in embarrassment, but Noctis reached for his chin, and tilted it up so they could lock gazes again.
"I know you did," Noct emphasized, hoping it might make Prompto believe him.
"O-oh, hey. Chocobo races!" Prompto interjected, before he could become red in the face from Noctis' praise. Noctis chuckled softly and followed as Prompto crossed the street with a coaxing wave. Noct caught up quickly, and they travelled over the dirt path to the registration booth.
"You're not actually thinking of racing, are you?"
"Why? You scared?" Prompto taunted, raising his brows.
"No," Noct said, sounding cocky, nose raised playfully in the air. "I'm still sore from skating."
"Dude, that was, like, two weeks ago!" Prompto scoffed, before his voice became light and teasing. "But okay. If you're scared, you don't have to race today."
"I'm not scared," Noct muttered. "Just not in the mood for getting all saddle-sore when we still have hours of driving ahead of us."
"Fair point. Alright, let's just watch from over here," Prompto grinned, taking Noct's hand and pulling him along.
The sun was beginning to set over the farmland now, the brilliant oranges and pinks looking like brush strokes on the sky's vibrant canvas. Noctis admired the way the sun made the ends of Prompto's hair sparkle, like tiny orange lights. He had the idea to snatch the camera hanging from Prompto's neck and capture this moment so that he could remember his fiancé's beauty forever. He supposed, though, that a photo would never do him justice.
It could never capture all that he was—his breath that hung in the air, always with the potential of becoming a laugh; his gentle eyes and crooked smile that made Noctis' knees go weak; his spontaneous, playful self that made every day with him into an adventure. Noctis would miss it all so much.
"You okay?" Prompto asked, as they reached a jumbled stack of wooden crates to the side of the finish line.
"Yeah," Noct nodded, quickly shaking off what was probably an extremely sad expression. Prompto kept his hand in his as they sat down side-by-side on one of the crates. Before them were four haughty chocobos, fighting against their riders' grips on their reins, ready to race.
"Pink, blue, green, and purple. I think... purple is gonna win. What about you, Noct?" he asked, turning to look at his companion. Noctis stared at each one and pursed his lips as he thought.
"Green. And don't cry when you lose," he jested, earning him an elbow to the side.
They watched intently as the referee shouted out the countdown, and rang the bell to signal the beginning of the race. Dust rose and pebbles flew as the birds took off down the path, disappearing from sight soon after the first turn. Left in silence, Noctis soon felt Prompto squeezing his hand, and he looked over to see a serious look on his face, his gaze distant as he stared toward the ground.
"What is it?" Noct asked, scooting in a little closer to him, preparing to comfort him in any way he knew how.
"Noct, do you remember the night I told you about my condition? And you said you had thought all along that I was dealing with post traumatic stress? How did you know that?" the man queried, voice quiet. His eyes moved to stare sidelong at Noctis, who clasped a hand over their already linked ones, giving a gentle squeeze.
"Because—" Noctis paused almost immediately, like he wasn't sure he was ready to say the words he was thinking. It was no wonder. It was the first time he'd actually ever admitted it aloud. "I went through the same thing after that daemon attack when I was young."
"Y-you did?" Prompto softly inquired.
"Yeah. I did the same sorts of things. Lost interest in hobbies, isolated myself, avoided interpersonal relations because I felt they were too hard to deal with."
Prompto thought back to the eight-year-old Noctis who had come to school in a wheelchair, talked even less than usual, and had stopped smiling altogether. Knowing what he knew now, he wished he could have gone back in time to help that young Noctis.
"When I finally recognized that that might be what you were going through, I think... I think that's when we started communicating better. Or at least, that's when I started trying to support you instead of feeling snubbed all the time," Noct explained. Prompto gave a half-smile, and stared down at their interwoven hands, appreciating Noctis' support, and the fact that he'd opened up about something so deeply personal.
"Any reason you're asking me this now?" Noct cautiously ventured.
"Not really, just... You bringing me here reminded me of how well you know me, Noct. That night proved that to me as well. You always seem to know what I need. You always know how I'm feeling or what I'm going through," Prompto explained, gaze focused on the sky.
"Well, I could say the same about you. No one knows me better than you do," Noct smiled, modestly. Prompto glanced at him before smiling in return.
"I also wanted you to know that I've been feeling a lot better lately. Having you by my side, going to all these places together... It's really helped."
"I'm glad. I've noticed you've had your camera out more lately," Noct stated, giving a nod toward the device slung around his neck.
"Yeah, I'm definitely feeling more like my old self again. Like I can deal with stuff better, you know? And it wouldn't have happened if you hadn't been here with me every step of the way. So thanks, Noct, for sticking with me even after... well, everything. "
"Hey, you really don't need to thank me. I wouldn't have it any other way," Noct hummed, smile soft and genuine.
"So, what about you? What made you start feeling better?" Prompto ventured, turning his head, and Noctis bravely met his gaze.
"Me? After the Marilith incident, you mean?" Noct asked, quietly. Prompto nodded.
"Honestly? I didn't start to come around until I met you."
"Pfft. Okay... No need to flatter me," Prompto groaned.
"I'm serious. You were the first real friend I ever had outside of the Citadel. I think that getting to know you, and hanging out with you got me distracted. It got me socializing again. Plus, you were... You were a kind of support system that I'd never had before."
"What do you mean?" Prompto asked, lifting a brow. Noct shrugged, suddenly appearing a little self-conscious. He averted his gaze, eyes travelling to the hills ahead, as if waiting for the chocobo racers to appear at any moment.
"Back home, I could never say anything in confidence and not have it be repeated to my advisors or my dad. But I knew I could trust you," Noctis said, one side of his mouth lifting up into a tiny smile as he finished.
Prompto smiled in response and leaned in close, nose nestling into Noct's hair and pressing a kiss to Noct's temple. He allowed his forehead to rest there against his temple once the kiss had ended. There was silence as they sat there, just breathing together, just drinking each other in.
"You okay, Prom?" Noctis whispered, hating to break the serenity of the moment, but feeling he had to. He needed to know why all of these questions were surfacing now.
"I am. There's just so much I want to say to you. So much I want you to know, and so much I want to know," Prompto vaguely explained, but Noct didn't need any further explanation to understand.
"You're afraid you won't have enough time," he stated. Prompto finally met his gaze, violet-blue eyes strikingly sad.
"You know me so well," Prompto reiterated with a shrug, giving a weak smile.
"Prompto..." Noctis murmured. He wrapped an arm around Prompto's shoulders, tugging him in close against his warm body. Prompto allowed his head to be coaxed onto Noctis' shoulder, and treasured the way the king's slender fingers carded through his hair.
"I'm okay, Noct. I promise," Prompto whispered, though he didn't resist settling in against his partner.
"Maybe you are, but I won't relax until I'm a hundred percent sure. If there's anything you need to get off your chest, any stories you want to tell, or any questions you have for me... Let's just talk it all out, okay?"
"Okay. Thanks, Noct."
"You want to head for the caravan?"
"Nah, let's see the end of the race first," Prompto said, squeezing Noctis' knee affectionately. Noct's lips brushed over Prompto's hair in silent agreement, and they continued to watch the quiet racetrack until the blue chocobo first crossed the finish line.
"This is nice," Noct observed, stepping into the caravan that rested back beyond the chocobo stalls. Prompto followed him inside the modern space, flicking on the light switch as they entered. The old caravan that used to reside here at the chocobo post used to be a little musty, the beds a little less than satisfactory with their meager cushioning and uncomfortable metal bedsprings. This refurbished caravan smelled fresh and clean, the bedframes made of beautiful, light birchwood rather than the old and rustic cedar. The brown duvets were puffy and inviting.
The stove was an updated model, the cupboards the same light wood as the bunk beds. A small card table sat against the window between two booth seats. The setup reminded Prompto of that night in the Hammerhead caravan when Noctis had brought back the sunlight, and they had shared those passionate kisses in celebration of his survival against the odds.
"Which bed do you want? They're kind of small," Noct said, with a knowing smirk.
"We're still sharing, dummy," Prompto replied monotonously, making Noctis chuckle softly. Prompto took Noct's bag for him and set it down on the floor next to his own, beside one of the two bunk beds.
Prompto wandered over to the table and slid into one of the booth seats, pushing a finger in between the slates of the blinds and peeking out at the starry night. Noctis scooted into the seat across from him a moment later, surprising him with a white, cardboard takeout container with a Tenebraen symbol printed on top. When Prompto gave him a quizzical look, Noctis flipped open the container with a coy look in his eye, handing him a plastic fork before spinning the small box to face Prompto.
Prompto's face lit up as he gazed upon the dessert that Ignis had tried and failed to replicate on many occasions. The circular pastry was golden brown, the edges of the crust perfectly scalloped. The sweet aroma of pastry and stewed berries filled the air.
"This is it! The Tenebraen dessert," Prompto marvelled, not needing to be told. "When did you pick this up?"
"Right before we left Tenebrae. You remember when I popped into that café to grab us some hot drinks for the road?"
"Oh yeah," Prompto nodded, snapping his fingers as he recalled the moment. He must have had his nose in his most recent camera pics when Noct had returned—otherwise, he surely would have noticed Noct sneaking the pastry box into the backseat.
"You want to do the honours and try the first bite?" Noct offered.
"No way, dude. You've been waiting too long for this moment. I'm not taking th is away from you," Prompto grinned, making Noctis breathe out a laugh.
"Okay," Noct agreed, spinning the box sideways so they could both easily get at the dessert. "I'll give it a try."
Prompto watched, eyes wide with anticipation as Noctis stuck his fork into the tart and cut off a small portion. He popped the morsel into his mouth, chewing slowly before his lips lifted into a smile.
"Oh yeah," he said, speaking around the food in his mouth and pointing at the remaining pastry with his fork. "This is the real deal."
Grinning, Prompto followed Noctis' lead and cut off a sliver of the dessert before lifting it to his mouth. He quickly understood why Noct had always raved about the dessert, and why nothing Ignis had conjured up had compared to this. Yes, Ignis' concoctions had been delicious, too, but different. Very different.
"Oh! I see what you mean!" Prompto energetically blurted out, eyes still alight. "It's like... the centre is..."
"More jelly-like," Noctis finished for him, gazes meeting in agreement.
"Yeah! It was more liquidy when Ignis made it. And this crust... it really is flaky, huh?"
" Uh-huh. So flaky. And so good," Noct sighed peacefully, gathering another piece onto his fork and taking a bite. Prompto did the same, eyeing the topping carefully before slipping it into his mouth.
"I'm thinking this is some sort of pudding on top? Actually, it tastes a lot like this vanilla custard that Iris made for my birthday one year. We could totally ask her for the recipe, and try to replicate this again back home!"
"Really? You think she still has the recipe?"
"Probably. She wrote down a ton of recipes back when we were working out of Lestallum. I mean, she was mostly in charge of sewing and selling clothing, but she did prepare her share of meals for the hunters and townsfolk as well."
"Huh. I never knew that," Noctis mused, but it wasn't long before he let his smile return. He reached across the table to give Prompto's wrist a lighthearted nudge. "Aren't you just a little fountain of knowledge."
"Weeeell, you know," Prompto sang, raising his head in feigned arrogance. "I ain't just a pretty face."
Noctis' grin remained as they continued to chow down on the tart, eating until the box held nothing but crumbs. They tossed their forks into the box and Noct set it down on the counter by the sink. Prompto sat back in his seat, happily rubbing his satisfied stomach.
"Thanks for sharing, Noct. That was deeeelicious."
"My pleasure. Glad you finally got to taste the real thing."
"Bet that wasn't a cheap pastry either."
"No, it wasn't," Noct chuckled. "But as always, you are worth the gil."
"Aw, aren't you a peach," Prompto teased, getting up to elbow Noct gently in the side. Prompto followed up the action with an involuntary yawn, hand pressing firmly against the back of his mouth to cover it.
"Bedtime?" Noct smirked.
"Yes, please," Prompto replied with a sleepy smile.
Noctis fished a camp lantern out of one of the cupboards and set it down on the counter, switching it on, and turning off the main light. The lantern gave a white glow, which offered enough light for him to get his face washed and teeth brushed. Even though they never minded being in cramped quarters with one another, the small bathroom of the caravan was a little too tight a squeeze to do so comfortably, so Noctis let Prompto have the washroom to himself.
Once he had finished his nighttime routine, Noct stripped down to his underwear, the air of the caravan a bit warm and stuffy, probably from being closed up during the mild afternoon. He slipped under the bed covers, body relaxing as it sunk into the padded matress. He rested his hands behind his head, eyes closed as he listened for Prompto to finish up in the washroom.
It wasn't long before Prompto sauntered out and switched the lantern off, stuffing his clothes into his bag and lifting the covers to slide in next to Noctis.
"Oh. Looks like I'm overdressed," Prompto said, with a hint of a laugh.
"It's pretty warm in here," Noct replied, smile small and gentle.
"Yeah, it kind of is, huh?" Prompto hesitated before tugging his white t-shirt off and letting it fall onto his bag, leaving him in only his boxers as he crawled in next to Noctis. He should have known better than to allow himself this indulgence, to ease himself in against Noct's barely clad body, arms finding naked waists, and bare legs moving to entangle themselves.
"You wanna talk? You know, pick up where we left off earlier?" Noctis asked, gently. Prompto's head rested upon his shoulder, and Noctis took the opportunity to brush his fingers over the back of soft blond hair.
"Hmm," Prompto chuckled weakly, trying to recall their conversation from the chocobo race. "Now that we're here, I'm not even sure what to say."
"You said you had a lot of things you wanted to talk about."
"Yeah," Prompto breathed. "And how... I'm afraid I won't have enough time to say them all."
"You'll have time," Noctis promised again, playing with the hair at the nape of Prompto's neck, tousling the ends between his fingertips. "We've got time. Right now. You can tell me anything."
Prompto hummed a sound of thanks, before tilting his head downward, eyes on Noctis' chest rather than daring to meet his eyes.
"Mostly it comes down to how much I missed you when you were gone. And how much I appreciate you sticking by me, back when I was pushing you away, and ever since you learned the truth. I just... want you to know that I love you, you know? I never stopped," Prompto shrugged.
"Of course, I know," Noct promised. "And I would never have done things any differently. I would never abandon you, Prompto."
"Yeah," Prompto said, with a breath of relief. "You've proven that over and over, Noct. Thank you for being so loyal to me."
"You really think you have to thank me for that? After you stayed loyal to me the whole time I was in the crystal?"
"I know I don't have to. But I want to."
Noctis leaned in, lips finding the remains of the faint scar on Prompto's temple—a gift from Ardyn. Noctis could remember how bad it had looked when they had first rescued Prompto from Zegnautus. He could remember how strongly the blood had smelled as he'd dabbed at the crimson trails with a washcloth. He could remember the sounds of Prompto's sobs that night, when he'd thought everyone else was asleep. That night, Noctis had sworn he would never leave Prompto's side again, and yet, before the sun had set the next day, he had broken that promise—against his will, but still...
"And what you said outside, about me helping you through such a hard time, and about how you trusted me... That meant a lot, Noct. I'm so glad I could be that for you. And I'm thrilled that you could be that for me as well. You were always someone I could trust, too" Prompto explained.
"You're making me worry," Noct stated with a chuckle, though Prompto could already hear the fear in his voice. "Have you been feeling okay, Prom? Just tell me if you're not. We can go back home in a heartbeat."
"Huh? No, I feel fine."
"Alright..." Noctis bit his lip, and it looked like an attempt to bite back his words. "Then... I think I know what this is about. Are you afraid... that I'll forget?" Noctis croaked.
"What?" Prompto gaped, lifting his head. When he met Noctis' eyes, they were frightened; he could see the fear even in the darkness.
"Are you afraid that I'm gonna forget what we meant to each other?"
Prompto swallowed hard and closed his eyes. How was it that Noct could always pin him so easily? He really did know him better than anyone.
"Maybe?" Prompto shrugged, meekly. "I mean, it's never gonna be as clear as it is right now. In this moment. While I'm alive."
"Don't—" Noct hushed, voice breaking. He lifted his head up off the pillow, gaze fixed on Prompto, finger pressing against his soft pink lips. "Don't talk like that."
"But shouldn't we be realistic?" Prompto asked, feebly. "Even though we're getting married, I don't expect you to stay loyal to me for the rest of your life."
"Prompto, where the hell is all of this coming from? I told you before, you are the only one I want to spend my life with. Why is that not alright with you?" Noct asked, voice still failing him. His face was twisted with so much despair, and Prompto hated that he had been the one to put it there.
"Because. You say that now, Noct, but you still have a lot of years to live. Just because you feel this way now doesn't mean you always will. I don't mind if you fall in love again, Noct. I know what it's like to be alone, and it's a miserable feeling. I would never wish that on you."
"Prompto," Noct whimpered, eyes glassy.
He knew that the ten years that Prompto had spent without him was nothing compared to the fifty or more that Noct might have to spend alone, but still... Would he ever be able to fully give his heart to someone else? Would he ever love anyone the way he loved Prompto—the way he'd loved Prompto since they were mere schoolboys? He doubted it. How could anyone step into that role when they had so much history, so many shared memories?
"I don't mind, Noct," Prompto repeated. "All I ask is that you don't forget."
Noctis stared Prompto down for the longest moment, his bearded face twitching as it fought against emotions. The corners of his mouth twinged downwards, his brows knitted. Prompto reached for his face, his thumb brushing gently back and forth against the king's cheek.
"Noct?" he asked, carefully, when it looked like the man might just fall to pieces. The whisper of his name seemed to jolt him back to life, and Noctis tightened his hold on the back of Prompto's neck, guiding their lips together.
The kiss was hard and rough, as if Noctis thought the pressure of his lips might keep Prompto from ever slipping away. Prompto didn't mind that the gesture was uncouth and hasty, that it was clumsy and unrefined and even a tad aggressive. All that mattered was that Noctis was kissing him, that they were pressed body to body, and that they were alone.
"I will never forget," Noctis vowed, voice gruff and tearful. "You really think I could ever forget you, you idiot?" There was hurt and frustration bubbling in Noctis' throat, and yet, all Prompto could manage was a weepy chuckle.
"Y-yeah. Deep down, I know you wouldn't, but I just... I want you to remember I'm your idiot."
Tears fell from Noct's eyes as he closed them, and he kissed Prompto again, hands desperate to pull him close. Prompto trailed a hand along Noct's bare side, the backs of his fingers grazing along sensitive skin and making Noct breathe hard against his mouth. He hadn't meant it to be so much an enticing act as a gesture of comfort, but perhaps he wasn't the only one craving a little attention these days. Maybe that small touch was doing to Noct what Noct's barely controlled panting was doing to Prompto—creating heat. So much heat.
Noctis' hands seemed suddenly less content to stay where they were, and Prompto felt them tumbling away from his neck and hair, sliding instead down the line of his spine. One finished its journey, resting in the curve of his lower back, while the other continued down over his backside and under his thigh. Prompto couldn't fight the urge to thrust his hips against Noctis' as his leg was guided up over the man's waist. Poor Prompto, Noct found himself thinking, as he felt Prompto's heat firm against him. How unfair to wind him up like that and leave him burning.
"Prom? Are you sure you're okay?" Noct asked, gently, pulling back from their kisses to meet his partner's eyes. Prompto blinked, wide eyes curious.
"Huh? You mean—?"
"I mean, if you're sure you're feeling okay, then maybe... Maybe not all the way, but..."
Noctis propped himself up on his elbow, eyes scanning the length of Prompto's form beneath him before meeting his gaze in a long stare. He needed to know that Prompto was okay. He needed to know that his hands wouldn't break him, that his actions wouldn't result in his last breath.
"I'm okay, Noct," Prompto softly promised, curious eyes staring up at him, body fighting to keep still with the anticipation of Noctis' touch.
After a few more dreadfully long seconds of locked eyes, Noctis leaned over to kiss Prompto's lips again, the caress tender and patient before scooting down to the end of the bed. Prompto tilted his head to watch as Noct slid a finger under his waistband, running it affectionately along his skin before reaching to tug his shorts down. Prompto made a weak noise as he waited... waited patiently for whatever Noct was about to do. When Noct seemed to be hesitating, he spoke up again to lighten the mood.
"I'm gonna feel really bad if we make a mess of this nicely renovated caravan," Prompto quietly chuckled.
"We won't make a mess," Noct assured him, as he slowly lowered his head to take Prompto into his mouth.
Prompto tensed like a cat in water, the feeling of Noctis' hot, wet tongue against him a sensation he hadn't felt in quite some time—not since their days on the road when they'd needed a quick release. Ignis and Gladio had pretty much always been watching—or listening, for that matter—so they'd taken their chances in empty washroom stalls and hotel bedrooms, while the other two were off shopping or filling up the gas tank. Now, more than ever, Prompto made sure he let himself drown in the sensations, for who knew when they would have another moment like this. It was always possible that Noct's fears would return and get the better of him.
Prompto tried to memorize the feel of Noctis' long, slender fingers as they gripped his waist, and the skilled flicks of his tongue. The caravan was quickly filled with Prompto's noises, soft whines and moans of Noct's name that grew louder and more desperate with time. The moment was over too soon and left Prompto arching up against Noctis, fingers woven tightly through his hair, mouth open and panting. Noctis pulled back slowly, swallowing, pressing the back of his hand to his mouth and watching as Prompto's chest rose and fell heavily beneath him.
"You okay?" Noct asked, immediate concern taking over his features.
"Better than okay," Prompto breathlessly replied, with a crooked smile.
Noct gave a flicker of a smile, looking almost relieved before the expression faded away. He watched carefully as Prompto came down from the high, admiring his flushed cheeks and forehead slightly damp from pleasure. But his mind couldn't help but focus on the way Prompto continued to breathe so heavily. What if Noct had put strain on his poor lungs, or that dear racing heart? Those fears had always been there, and even if he'd been able to cast them aside for a few minutes, they were back as quickly as they'd gone, now glued to the forefront of his mind.
"Are you okay?" Prompto tried, recognizing Noct's silent distress.
"As long as you are." Noct pushed forth a weak smile, settling Prompto's nerves for the moment.
He gently adjusted Prompto's boxer shorts properly around his waist again and lay down beside him, propping himself up on his elbow again to watch him. Prompto smiled contentedly as Noct draped an arm over his waist, thumb grazing absently against his side. Prompto turned his head to place a kiss against Noctis' shoulder.
"Usually you're a lot more smug after a job like that. Uh, pardon the pun," Prompto said, with an awkward chuckle. Noct joined in the soft chorus of laughter.
"Guess I've grown up. Not so boastful anymore," Noct said, briefly lifting his hand from Prompto's waist to brush blond bangs aside. "More interested in admiring you, you know? Just watching how beautiful you are in the afterglow."
"And not too proud to resort to flattery, I see," Prompto grinned.
"Well... Like you, I don't want to leave anything unsaid. You are beautiful, Prompto. And you deserve to know that," Noct murmured, making Prompto smile. Even after all these years, knowing that someone thought that much of him was heartwarming, and he nestled his nose in against Noctis' shoulder, ready for a good night's rest.
"I should really be returning the favour," Prompto whispered, voice already laden with sleep.
"Don't you worry about that. Besides, now we're even for the favour you did me in Gralea," Noct winked.
"Not that you're keeping score or anything," Prompto softly laughed.
"Goodnight, Prompto."
"Goodnight, buddy. I love ya."
"I love you, too. Sleep well," Noct replied, pressing a kiss to Prompto's hair, listening until he was sure his breathing had returned to normal.
A/N: Hey everyone, I know this update has been a long time coming. I'm actually recovering from a broken pelvis after a horse accident a few weeks ago. Thankfully, I will be okay, but it has taken me some extra time to get this chapter finished up. So thank you all so much for your patience! I hope this one was worth the wait!
I hope you all enjoyed the boys' trip to the chocobo post. Considering Prompto's love of the place, I knew a trip here was in order (the chocobo races scene was actually something I wrote long ago, back when I first started writing this story). It's funny because when I started picking away at this chapter last week, I didn't originally intend for the boys to get frisky at the end, but I felt like it was necessary (I'm sure no one is complaining anyway, haha). Noctis needs to start cracking if they're ever going to make that exception!
