caycay | I've Been Lonely

Safe in Idia's arms, Cater feels untouchable. The stress of the outside world dulled out to silence. Here, there's only the sound of their heartbeats, the rise and fall of his boyfriend's chest beneath his cheek. He drifts off before long, as well, coming back to reality only when the train eventually rolls to a stop, gently lurching both of their bodies against the seats.

"Mmmm," he murmurs as he presses his face fully into Idia's chest. "What's that, are we here?"

Idia checks the time and GPS data on his phone, then nods. “Last stop, so we have time to get ourselves up and out. Don’t wanna linger too long, though.”

The drone tucks away his tablet before settling itself into Idia’s baggage. Groaning, the flame-haired boy sits up, still holding Cater close. “Cuddle time later, promise.”

Cater nods, pulling himself up with a measure of reluctance as he rubs his eyes. "Later," he agrees. "After I've had my way with you and vice versa." He knows once they get up and moving, the excitement is going to get his blood pumping once again. Still, in his half-awake haze he plants a sweet kiss on Idia's cheek.

"Need to stretch my legs so I don't totally beef it once we're vertical."

Idia smiles at the kiss, swinging his legs down to stretch and get blood flowing again. Neither of them needs to stumble and collapse. They have a bit of a hike ahead of them as it is to get to the little town at the foot of the main trail. Ugh.

Once he’s sure he won’t buckle to the floor, Idia gets up and retrieves his bags. A glance out the windows shows a lot of trees and sloping hills leading up to mountains, not something he’s used to. Seven, what has he gotten himself into? “If I collapse out there, wipe my browser history.”

"After I browse all of your dirtiest secrets, it's a promise," Cater agrees as he hoists his own bags up and over his shoulder. Once they're ready to go and heading toward the door he adds, "but if you collapse, I'll carry you like the princess you are."

He'd never simply let his beloved expire on a mountain trail! And once they've stepped on the train, officially far, far away from everyone they know, Cater reaches over to take Idia's hand, lacing their fingers together.

Idia can’t help cackling at that, his eyes crinkling in the corners. Still, the return grip on Cater’s hand is firm and loving, obviously enjoying their anonymity here where they can hold hands or kiss without raising a fuss. They hold on tight as they make their way from the station to town, a cozy place with lots of little shops and restaurants catering to tourists.

“It’s… quaint. Feels like a hub village from a more modern but not futuristic RPG.” Idia squints under the bright sun. With one hand holding Cater’s and the other occupied with baggage, he has nothing to shield his photosensitive eyes. He’s never really had to prepare for extended outdoor activity, aside from the horror that is PE. “Too bright, though.”

Humming, Cater reaches around with his free hand and pulls open a front zipper from one of the bags he has slung over his shoulder. Pretty easily he's able to pull out a pair of sunglasses and reaching over to slide them onto Idia's face. "This'll help--we can get you your own pair later if you like, though I do like you in diamond."

He winks, definitely meaning the double-entendre, before continuing the conversation. "Quaint is good, right? It's kinda like...the low level spot on the map where we start our adventure."

All things considered, they were well into their journey--and one could argue that it started when they both joined the NRC's student body. Maybe even before that, if one counted their individual prologues. Still, this was a completely new arc for them both. It stood to reason there should be an appropriate beginner world.

Definitely better, but with the hot sunlight Idia can feel on his skin he knows he’s going to need more: a hat, sunblock, maybe an umbrella. He’s really not designed for outdoors, but getting to have so much alone time with Cater in a private residence is worth it.

A starting point… that’s not far off the mark. This trip is the beginning of the next phase of their life together. They have weeks to grind levels in intimacy and connection, without the handicap of nosy classmates and strict rules. Now, any planned journey starts with stocking up on supplies, and Idia spots a small store with bins of fruit and vegetables out front. He’s not used to cooking from scratch, hopefully Cater knows how to do it so he can learn a few things.

“Doesn’t look like they sell a lot of convenience foods here. Do you know how to cook?”

Cater gives himself another moment to admire Idia in those shades before he turns his attention to the task at hand. He nods--they're in luck. "I'm nowhere near Trey's level of skill, but I've picked up enough at home that I can manage. We can pick up some staples and other ingredients based on the kind of meals you're interested in."

He squeezes Idia's hand--there's just something so...fulfilling about the idea of getting to take care of him like this. Without the cafeteria and the takeout options...it's going to be so domestic. Thinking about it makes Cater giggle to himself.

"I won't make everything super spicy, either. Do you want to pick things up to take with us while we're passing through, or should we get our bags put down, first?" He still has one free hand, but they can get more shopping out of the way without their luggage hindering them.

Idia glances from the store to the trail they’ll have to walk to get to the cabin. The website blurb said it’s an easy 15-20 minute walk, which means it’s not one Idia wants to do twice on their first day. Ugh, he’s hindering them already.

“Maybe we should pick up a few things now, get a full stock tomorrow,” he mumbles. “Gotta put more points in mobility while we’re here.” He squeezes Cater’s hand as he huddles further into his hood. “S—sorry.”

When Idia shrinks, Cater presses in slightly, an encouraging bump of his side against his boyfriend's. "Hey now," he coos, "nothing to worry about. Let me do the heavy lifting, okay?"

Aside from being the more athletic of the two, it also feels like the least he can do when Idia's the one funding the whole trip. He doesn't want to put any real attention on Idia's insecurities, so he tries and keeps the energy light. It's tricky, he knows, but he's sure that once they get to the cabin Idia will be much more relaxed.

"I have more than enough experience handling an absurd amount of packages at once thanks to my sisters--and you know what? I could just have a split card help us out if we need...even though I'd rather save all my energy for when we're alone."

Oh, he didn’t even think about the split cards. And the thought of being a burden? More of his malware acting up, most likely. He knows it’s part of the curse but it’s still frustrating. Cater loves him so much to put up with everything Idia is.

“Thanks, Cay.” He’s still quiet as they enter the store but he doesn’t sound quite as down anymore. People glance at them when they step inside but there are no lingering stares to make Idia shrink down into himself again. Their sneakers tap the wooden floor as they make their way along the aisles.

There’s lots of produce, along with simple dry goods and canned food. Idia clearly gives the boxed macaroni and cheese a few looks. Ah, comfort food. He’ll eat almost anything as long as it’s easy to make or prepared by someone else, except for raw fish. So he turns his attention back to his boyfriend and shrugs. “No raw fish, nothing super hot. Other than that, you decide since you’re the one putting in all the effort.”

Cater's quick to fill Idia's dip in mood with an added dose of playfulness, hoping to continue taking his mind off of his perceived shortcomings. "Can't cook something fancy every night," he says with a wink as he takes a couple of those macaroni boxes and tosses them into the basket he'd picked up for shopping.

He needs to let go of his boyfriend's hand in order to shop properly, but tells himself he'll make up for that with extra touchy-feely smoopiness once they're done. Cater chatters as they browse the small grocery, firing off some meal ideas. Eggs, milk, rice, an assortment of produce, a couple herbs and spices...all of that is good for a couple days, at least. Toss in some bread and a couple protein options and they're golden.

Well, okay. Maybe a couple snacks and something for dessert for Idia. And a box of cereal doesn't hurt for lazy breakfasting, either.

"Look good? Final check!"

He has the best boyfriend ever. Idia nods and offers a thumbs-up along with a shy grin. With all this they can hole up for a couple of days, unwind in each other’s arms before attempting to explore nature. Well, after they wind each other up first. Hopefully they can get the perishables away before they start getting handsy.

Of course, Idia pays for everything. They both have things to contribute to this vacation, Idia’s mainly being a deep well of cash while Cater has the necessary skills to keep them from starving. So they’re equal, right? Will Cater start to feel like a sugar baby? Okay, letting the split card squad carry stuff makes Idia feel better about that possibility.

(Deep breaths, nerd. Don’t ruin the vacation on the first day with your broken brain!)

“If you’re tired by the time we get to the cabin, I’ll make it up to you.” He has a few relaxing and non-sexy things in his stuff for that, in case of the sore muscles he’s anticipating after hiking or… other things.

They got a bit too much for Cater to carry with one arm, so once they’re outside, a few split cards are manifested. Could’ve probably gotten away with one or two, but the thief insists on taking Idia’s luggage with a wink. Now the two lovebirds can stroll at a much more relaxed pace, hands clasped again.

The other Caters definitely whine about it before they laugh and back off, giving a respectful distance and talking amongst themselves as they make their way to their retreat.

“Ooooh?” Cater gives Idia a sly look. “Maybe I’ll be so exhausted I’ll just faint right into your arms.”

Idia giggles. It’s so nice to be able to hold hands like this. Once they arrive at the cabin, he’s going to give each of the split cards a kiss before they vanish as thanks for their efforts. “Cay, if you’re tired enough to faint, do you really think my nerdy self will make it there with anything left in my stamina bar? Even without using magic?”

He’s somewhat aware of the trees towering over them as they walk the trail, the shade cool and the breeze gentle. The sound of the river running side by side with the trail provides a pleasant white noise in the background. But even with all of it surrounding them, the only thing at the center of Idia’s focus is Cater. Nothing could be more beautiful, not a perfect string of code or the most advanced tech or a quiet forest. It’s Cater, and he’s all Idia’s for the summer.

"There you go with that pesky logic of yours," Cater sighs with a fake whine before coming right back with another grin. "Okay! That's settled then. We'll take it nice and slow so neither of us gets too wiped out. That way you can pamper me at the best of your abilities."

It is a nice walk, regardless. In the thick of nature, it's no longer too hot or too bright, and there's no one else around to distract them or make them feel at all self-conscious. The atmosphere is easy to find solace in, and Cater finds that the silence is peaceful alongside his boyfriend. Even though he has plenty of energy, he keeps drifting into Idia's side, instinctive in his want for closeness.

Still, as decent of a hike as it is, the cabin comes into sight in what feels for Cater like no time at all. "Ah! Here we go! They key should be in the lockbox--you have the code?"

Thankfully Idia's not too winded when they arrive, though his legs do feel a little tired. The slope of the trail to the cabin is far easier than what he knows he'll be encouraged to try over the next several weeks. His noodle body will get a workout in more ways than one, though he's looking forward to some of it. Trying not to think too hard about what's in store (so his hair doesn't give him away), he approaches the lockbox and punches in the code he was given in the rental email. With a soft beep, the cover unlatches and he retrieves the key.

"Dun duun duuun duuuun!" The lilting success! jingle dances from his lips on a chuckle as he unlocks the front door, which opens into a modest but beautiful open space with hardwood floors and soft earth tone colors. The high ceiling of the foyer leads into a living room at the far end with a sprawling stone fireplace, floor to ceiling windows, a comfortable couch, and even a few loveseat-sized beanbag chairs. A open doorway to the right reveals the dining room and kitchen, while a hallway to the left likely leads to the bedroom and bathroom. It's a perfect space for two people, cozy and private. While it's not huge, the cost of the place is obvious in the quality of everything and how perfectly maintained it is.

Idia lets go of Cater's hand to peek around the corner into the kitchen and dining area. "Oh... wow, this is even nicer than the photos. Not what I'm used to, but it's... calming?" And there's plenty of space on the kitchen island vaguely separating the cooking and eating areas for them to set their supplies down.

Idia doesn't get much farther. As soon as he's shrugged the luggage he's still carrying off of his shoulders he's coming up to wrap his arms around Idia's lanky middle. "Sweet loot, achieved!"

The keys? The house? Idia himself? All of the above?

The three split cards make their way past the couple to set the groceries down in the kitchen. The one with Idia's things sets them beside Cater's. "Want us to put these away?"

"Mmm, I think we got it from here," Cater replies. "Thanks for the assist, mes!"

Of course, they all want their own chance at Idia before being dispelled. Who would Cater be to deny himselves that much?

And Idia is more than happy to oblige, was planning on it before the split cards even turn his way. With the original's arms wrapped around him from behind, he reaches out to hug each clone and give them a sweet, chaste kiss on the lips. They're a part of his boyfriend, and so he loves them as well.

"GG," he giggles to each one in turn. "Thanks n' love for you."

Affection and acceptance for all parts of Cater, Idia wouldn't have it any other way.

"GG!" Each one responds in turn, vanishing after their respective hug and kiss until finally, it's just the two of them. No more train staff, no more townsfolk...just one Idia Shroud and just one Cater Diamond. The latter of the two squeezes him a little more tightly.

"And now...am I stuck in here with you, or are you stuck in here with me? Wahaha!" He cackles into Idia's back before reluctantly letting go and peeking around the side of his body with a cheeky grin on his face. "But I'll try not to get ahead of myself. Those groceries won't store themselves."

Snickering, Idia gives Cater a brief peck on the lips before moving to start unpacking grocery bags. He takes charge of the cold goods, sorting things out the way he remembers seeing items arranged in the fridge and freezer in STYX when he was a kid: meat on the lowest shelf in case of drips, eggs on the top shelf so nothing falls on them, produce in the drawer. His eidetic memory guides him and won't let him deviate from something that's normally not part of his usual activities.

Though he does sneak a few grapes before putting them away. Ah, sweet and refreshing!

"So... what's for lunch, then?" The way he asks is casual, but there's the slightest hint of playfulness that speaks volumes that only Cater would know how to read.

Since Idia's got the perishables taken care of, Cater works on putting away the boxes goods and snacks. A couple things get to stay out on the counter for easy access while the rest find a place to stay in one of the empty cabinets. Fortunately, it looks like there's plenty of equipment and utensils for them to utilize during their stay.

Without missing a beat, Cater strikes a pose at the question. "I can serve up some sweet ass."

Torn between an entertained cackle and a surge of desire at the raunchy invitation, Idia darts in and yanks Cater against him in a hug that has one spindly hand gripping an asscheek. "Mmm, and I'm hungry. Sounds like what we both crave, huh?"

Wow, was that actually kinda smooth? Is Cater rubbing off on him? And was that another double entendre? He'd think about it more, but he's too busy pushing Cater back up against the kitchen island and kissing him breathless.

There's something that's still so incredibly thrilling about when Idia has that confidence to reach out and take what he wants--the desire to grab and pull him close. A new wave of arousal spikes down his body, and following his boyfriend's lead he uses a hand on the edge of the counter to hoist up onto it, wrapping his legs around Idia's hips and his arms around his neck. He's careful, of course, not to break their kiss as he moves. At least not until they're both thoroughly red in face--that's when he whispers hotly into Idia's ear, "I've got a hot sausage cooking with your name on it."

Cater drags his lips and tongue down to his neck, nibbling at the sensitive skin there and eager to see the change in Idia's hair color that gives away his passion.

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