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[center][u][h1]Jan. 5th[/h1][/u]
[u][h2]Driving to Yosemite[/h2][/u][/center]

Ben had been mulling over something he wanted to ask Chase. He had noticed on the first night, during their shower, that Chase had marks on his back. He hadn’t wanted to ruin the mood at any point, and so he hadn’t asked. He had been nervous. But after the massage and Chase’s lack of reaction to the marks being touched Ben decided it wasn’t something that needed to be brought up immediately, but he still wanted to ask. To make sure Chase was okay. During one of their stops, between the hotel near Sequoia and Yosemite, Ben finally got up the nerve.

[color=cde0e1]”Hey Chase,”[/color] he started, he was bouncing on the balls of his feet. [color=cde0e1]”I want to ask you something, but it’s probably a little personal. I just, I don’t know how to ask.”[/color] 

Chase was leaned against the passenger door of the Jeep, his hands in his jacket pockets to help keep the cold away. When Ben brought up the idea of a personal question his stomach fell. He had thought the conversation about how they got their powers, or how they were orphaned, was off the table. It was never explicitly stated, but neither ever dared approach the subject, and suddenly Ben had a personal question? It made him feel on edge. [Color=585c74]”What's up?”[/color]

Ben took a deep breath, and stopped his bouncing, [color=cde0e1]”You have marks on your back. It looks like bruising, and um... I don’t know, needle marks maybe? Are you... safe?”[/color] Ben wasn’t sure if that was really what he was asking. He knew that some kids when they came to school with bruises got taken from their parents. But these were strange. 

All concepts of what the conversation was going to be about got abandoned the second Ben opened his mouth again. [Color=585c74]”Am I safe? What like do I have STI's?”[/color] Chase tried to laugh off the question, but his mind kept fixating on the first part. He had…bruises? Needle marks? What the hell was Ben on about?

[color=cde0e1]”Uh, no. I mean, I would like to know if you do so we can deal with that. But that’s not what I mean. Like, you’re not getting hit by anyone right? No one is hurting you. I wasn’t sure, because when I gave you the massage you didn’t wince or flinch away. But it covers most of your back.”[/color] Ben was a little thrown off about the mention of STI’s. He hadn’t even considered that since Chase had said he was his first serious relationship. Though, Ben supposed there are other ways to get that. Needles being one of them. He shuffled his feet. 

Chase tried to keep a smile, he really did, but his lip kept twitching as the muscles fought him before he finally looked down at the ground. He tried to speak several times, none of them successful. His legs felt weak, suddenly the Jeep felt as if it was all that was keeping him from crashing to the ground. [Color=585c74]”What uh…what do mean? Nobody hits me, Nobody–”[/color] His voice was shaky, his hand balled into a fist as he slammed it against the car door behind him before he tilted his head back against the window. 

Ben had never been hit by a friend or family member, not in a serious way. He didn’t flinch, just a little jump at the noise, but not a true flinch. He was worried about Chase. Unsure if Chase needed space or would want him touching him. Did he? 

[color=cde0e1]”Chase?”[/color] he asked, his voice a little shaky. Ben reached out, fingers questing for Chase’s hand. If Chase pulled back, he’d let him. If not he’d move closer, hug him, or something, give him reassurances. Ben didn’t know what to do. He had never dealt with anything like this before. 

[color=cde0e1]”Do you... need help?”[/color] Ben was sure Matt would help. Matt was the type to drop everything and fly across the world to be there. Matt would help, Matt would know what to do. Ben would call Matt and he’d be there. They’d figure it out. 

Chase took in a long and shaky breath. [Color=585c74]”What I [i]need[/i] is to know what the [i]fuck[/i] youre on about. Is this some cruel prank? Huh? This how you get your kicks?”[/color] The irony of it all wasn't wasted on Chase. After all, he had relentlessly bullied the first boy to confess their love to him, not because of that no, it had nothing to do with the profession of love towards him and everything to do with what had come after, the abandonment of years of friendship gone. Now it felt as if the world had decided to deal out a bit of Karmic justice. He knew all of this was too good to be true. 

As Ben tried to get closer, Chase pushed himself off the Jeep and moved away from him. His stomach in knots. He paced vigorously back and forth past Ben over and over again. A whirlwind of emotions. Finally he stopped, he had to believe Ben wasn't like that. Had to hope…Chase ripped his shirt off from over his head along with his jacket before tossing them onto the ground. [Color=585c74]”Show me.”[/color]

Ben pulled back, almost switching places with Chase, pressed against the jeep. He watched as Chase paced. What did Chase mean? He wasn’t pranking him. He wasn’t lying. Why would he? And it was upsetting Chase way more than he thought it would. He hadn’t expected that much of a reaction. He figured Chase would be upset. That was why he had been so nervous about asking. 

Ben fumbled at his pocket, pulling out his cell phone and snapping a photo. [color=cde0e1]”Here.”[/color] He held out the phone, the photo showing the marks on Chase’s back. 

Chase slowly traced his fingers along his back, his sides, looking for the points in the picture Ben was showing him. His legs gave out as he fell to the floor, kicking himself away as he scampered backwards from Ben. Fear took over as his breathing became erratic. His eyes became wet with tears as visions of the lab came flooding back in. All he could say was one word over and over again. No. 

[color=cde0e1]”Hey, Chase, breathe.”[/color] Ben dashed forward, going to his knees and reaching for Chase’s hands. He hadn’t had time to catch Chase. But he wanted to help. Chase had just walked him through his own panic attack the day before. Now it was his turn. [color=cde0e1]”Look at me. Come on, focus, breathe.”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”No. Ben stay back! Please, please…”[/color] Chase begged his boyfriend as tears continued to stream down his cheeks. Shadows growing closer and closer to the pair. [Color=585c74]”I don't want to hurt you. I [i]can't[/i] hurt you. Not you.”[/color] His hands kept purchase against the marks on his back as his voice sounded torn, afraid. 

Ben froze. That was so unlike Chase. Could he hurt him? Ben thought of the swords. Thought of places shadows could lead to. A dozen ideas filled him, followed by fear. Chase wouldn’t hurt him intentionally. But in panic he might. He pulled back, just a little bit. 

[color=cde0e1]”Chase, look at me.”[/color] Ben’s voice was gentle, quiet. [color=cde0e1]”Please.”[/color] 

Chase tried to look at Ben, but he was afraid of what might be looking back. The shadows along the floor began to peel off the ground like tendrils, whipping wildly around Chase. He looked back down, head between his knees as he muttered to himself. [Color=585c74]”What more could they take from me. “[/color]

Ben pulled back farther as the tendrils of shadow started to whip around. Chase had looked at him, but quickly looked away. Ben didn’t know how to ground him. How to help him out of the panic. Whatever about this had triggered for Chase was not the same as Ben’s issue. Ben licked his lips, nervous.

[color=cde0e1]”Who?”[/color] This was probably a bad idea to ask. The two of them had been so careful around certain subjects. Avoiding things like they were pits. Neither had asked, neither had offered. It had been an uneasy, unspoken agreement, but it had been working. Ben was starting to realize he had found one of those pits. That he had opened the proverbial can of worms. He still didn’t know if Chase needed help, or if this was a thing from the past. Some wound that hadn’t healed yet. 

The question was simple, but Chase hardly had an answer. He didn't have an answer to any of this. The only face he recalled clearly was the picture of the girl, hung with pride and taunting him every waking day. The muffled voices difficult to decipher from within the tank. The faces long since abandoned after he'd ensured they'd never hurt another again, never hurt him again. The question was like a single drop of water, and it sent ripples down Chase's mind. For a brief moment the tendrils stopped writhing, hanging still in the air around him. His eyes were now pitch black, staring at Ben as if to search for the answer upon his face.

[Color=585c74]”I don't even know their names…”[/color] Chase chuckled, his tone broken and delusional. 

Ben had indeed, fucked up. His stomach dropped. Chase, oh sweet, funny, caring Chase. There was a bit of relief. It wasn’t his adoptive family. Not Morgan or PJ, they weren’t at fault. That meant it wasn’t a [i]current[/i] issue. Hopefully. Chase was... safe. 

Should he ask more? Should he push it and make Chase tell him what happened? He knew it was important to talk about the terrible things. It helped you process them. Chase was like a live wire. Ben was worried, not afraid, but worried. If he pushed, would Chase snap? Or if he didn’t, would it be worse? Chase would potentially bottle it all up and someday it could be worse. Ben remembered his mum telling him to talk about his feelings. Remembered discussing things that had happened and she had walked him through so many things. Fuck. He missed her. He needed her. How was someone supposed to grieve for someone when that person was always their support? 

Ben pushed that aside. He’d worry about himself later. He met Chase’s eyes, pitch black, and gave him a soft, reassuring smile. 

[color=cde0e1]”You’re here, with me. They aren’t here. Tell me about it. Don’t hurt yourself by bottling it up.”[/color] 

The shadows pulsed. As if waiting for a command, waiting to strike. Chase stared at Ben through inky darkness, and his words just melted down his walls. The tendrils lashed out and gripped Ben, pulling him into Chase's arms before they vanished back to where they came. He gripped Ben tight, sobbing into his shoulder as he tried to muster up the courage to talk about what had happened. Every breath felt heavy, felt as if he was back in that place,  as if he couldn't breathe. Chase gripped tighter and tighter as his fingers dug into Ben's shirt. 

Ben let out a small sigh of relief when the shadows went away. Chase was now pressed against him. Ben moved so they could sit, hugging each other, he rocked Chase a little bit, and rubbed a hand up and down his back. He’d give him time. Time to catch his breath. He tried to make soothing noises like his mum used to. He tried to say comforting words. Those were mostly, [color=cde0e1]”I’m here.”[/color] 

Some time had passed, Chase silent all the while Ben sat and comforted him, hidden by the Jeep's body and covered by its shadow. Finally Chase's grip lessened, he sniffled as he pulled away but barely. He wasn't ready to let go yet. [Color=585c74]”I don't want you to hate me…to – to see me differently.”[/color] There was a hitch in his voice.

Ben considered that, he still rubbed his hand over Chase’s back. There was very little that Chase could have ever done that would make Ben [i]hate[/i] him. 

[color=cde0e1]”Hmm, I can’t say I won’t look at you differently. I look at you differently than I did at the Contest, or at the skate park. I look at you differently than I did the first day. Every time we do or say something we change the perceptions of others. I can’t even promise that what you say won’t make me hate you. But,”[/color] Ben added quickly and emphatically. [color=cde0e1]”I can promise that I will listen to [i]everything[/i] you have to say and I’ll hold judgement as best as I can.”[/color] That was something his mum used to say. If he thought he’d get in trouble and he needed to tell her. She’d tell him she’d listen to everything before passing judgement. 

Chase chuckled. It was weak, almost non-existent, but it had happened nonetheless. [Color=585c74]”OK Shakespeare.”[/color] He tried to readjust himself, to hold Ben's hands. He couldn't look at Ben, he didn't want to see his reactions to anything he had to say. Hells, he didn't even want to be saying it. But there was just something about this kid that made Chase weak. [Color=585c74]”I don't even know where to begin, what to say…”[/color] He got quiet again. Squeezing Ben's hands before letting out a sigh as he tried to steel himself. 

Chase opened his mouth but nothing came out. Silence taking over once again before finally [Color=585c74]”I was kidnapped. I uh…I was taken, and trapped, and experimented on for…gods I don't even know. There was no way to track time or days or hours. No windows to look into how the world was going. Every day new needles, new tests, new tortures. They treated me like a lab rat, I…”[/color] His breath shuddered. His legs moved closer to his body again as he began to close up. As he began to try and regain some composure. 

His eyes had a far off look as he stared, not at the ground but past it if he could. [Color=585c74]”I couldn't tell you everything they did to me, I wasn't even fully conscious for some of them. I remember…my back had pieces attached to it, some way to make injections easier I'm sure.”[/color] His fingers traced the spots once more as he thought back. [Color=585c74]”They were researching something, but I don't know what, all I know is something finally clicked. I felt so much pain, my veins felt like they were frozen, next thing I knew the tank I was in was in pure darkness. Then something broke me out, or well…somehow I was able to break out but my powers…what they did to me…I was out of control, I was so full of rage and pain and I was so afraid they'd find me again and the others that were there and…and…I – I killed them all. Every last scientist there…”[/color] The tears began welling up again.

Ben’s eyes widened in surprise with the very first sentence. He thought again about his Uncle. He was basically a cop, right? Maybe he [i]could[/i] help. But Ben held his thoughts, kept them to himself and let Chase talk. He kept comforting him, rubbing his back and gently rocking him. As Chase talked he became increasingly angry at Chase’s kidnappers. They had done such horrid things. When Chase said that he had killed all the scientists, Ben finally understood. 

He understood why Chase was afraid that Ben would hate him. Ben didn’t. Dear god, he did not hate him. Some what if’s passed through his mind and he ignored them. Because none of that had happened. And these people were in the wrong. They deserved it. 

[color=cde0e1]”I don’t hate you.”[/color] He took Chase’s head into his hands and gently kissed him, with his thumb he wiped at the tears that had formed. [color=cde0e1]”Hell. That’s where you were. And you did what you had to and escaped. You’re free. Because [i]you[/i] saved yourself.”[/color] 

Chase didn't feel like he deserved the kiss, like he deserved this form of love. [Color=585c74]”How could you not hate me? I'm a monster, they turned me into a monster!”[/color] No, that wasn't quite right. He was a monster far before this had happened. Percy was right about that much. The scientists just helped to bring it to the surface for everyone else to see. [Color=585c74]”I can hardly close my eyes without seeing those scenes again, seeing everything they did to me. I can't. I can't sleep Ben. I haven't slept in months.”[/color] His breathing began to quicken again as it all came rushing back.

Ben shook his head. [color=cde0e1]”You’re not a monster. You killed the real monsters. Someone who does that to a kid, that’s horrible, that’s monstrous. Hey, breathe, slow down, breathe. You’re here, with me. You’re free. See, look at me. I’m here with you. This is real.”[/color] Ben didn’t know how to address the sleeping issue, but a few things about this trip made more sense. Chase was always awake first. He had done a lot of art during the late hours of the night. Ben was pretty certain people couldn’t go that long without sleep, but he didn’t completely understand the X-gene. Heck, he barely understood his own alien body. He wasn’t human, not really. In another time he’d be discriminated against. Matt and his parents talked about it. 

Chase tried to focus on Ben, hear his voice, feel his touch. He tried grounding himself as best he could. The tears wouldn't stop, it had been so long since he'd allowed himself to feel anything about this, so afraid he'd hurt even more if he did. His family had deserved it, but not PJ or Morgan. Certainly not Ben. He laid his head down on Ben's shoulder once more. [Color=585c74]”I'm sorry, I'm so sorry.”[/color] He cried to him.

Ben held Chase, he rubbed his back and rocked him gently. [color=cde0e1]”You don’t have to apologize. Not for that, not for this. I’ve got you,”[/color] he said as he kept trying to comfort Chase.  

Chase simply nodded into Ben's shoulder. Unable to speak as his breath stayed uneven through the sobs. Finally he'd stopped to look up at the sky, trying hard to stop crying as he changed his breathing and fanned himself. After a moment, he'd calmed himself a little. [Color=585c74]”Fuck me.”[/color]

Ben let Chase take his time. When Chase had calmed down and spoke Ben smiled, that was better. [color=cde0e1]”As you wish.”[/color] 

Chase laughed. He didn't know he could still do that. [Color=585c74]”Don't tempt me Big Ben. I may just take you up on that offer right now. “[/color]

Ben’s cheeks reddened a little. He wasn’t surprised, he was relieved. If Chase could laugh and say that then things would be okay. He smiled. [color=cde0e1]”Glad you’re up for it, but uh... how about not on the side of the road.”[/color] He considered opening up. Telling Chase what happened to his parents. Today had been intense, that’d be better for later. 

[Color=585c74]”Back of the Jeep it is then. I can darken the windows so no one looks in. “[/color]

The red in Ben’s face reddened even more. [color=cde0e1]”We can, if you really want to. I don’t know if I’m up for the... whole nine yards. But we can mess around.”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”Benny Boi…I just had a horrible life experience pulled out of me to relive like an open scab. I'm not exactly in the mood to fool around. OK, well, not [i]entirely[/i]. If im being honest I could absolutely fuck the shit out of something right now.”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”Yeah, I thought as much.”[/color] He felt his groin pull still at Chase’s comment. Well fuck. This was a bad idea. Right? They should just get back into the jeep and continue going to Yosemite.

Chase's shoulders slumped slightly. A part of him had [i]really[/i] wanted to get out all this energy. He felt lethargic and exhausted but was also filled with anger at what had happened all over again. Anger and frustration he wanted to get out in a ‘healthy’ way. 

Ben bit his lip. Is that what Chase needed? Was this the right thing to do? He was still holding Chase. He wanted to help him. A tiny war waged in Ben. 

[color=cde0e1]”How can I help?”[/color] He finally asked. He didn’t know what to do, but maybe Chase would know what he needed. 

[Color=585c74]”As much as I would love to ravage your body and absolutely pleasure you in the most carnal way, I don't want your first time to be on the side of the road after I just cried my eyes out. “[/color]

Ben nodded, his groin pulling again at Chase’s words. [color=cde0e1]”Then how about we get back into that car and hit the road? Or do you need some more time?”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”Do you mind if we wait a little more? My legs feel like jelly and I can't exactly drive like that. “[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”We can wait as long as you need. Means I don’t have to be in the car.”[/color] Ben grinned. 

[Color=585c74]”Fair fair. Maybe one day, car sex.”[/color]

Ben thought about it, and the pit of fear that he had when thinking about any small place was there. [color=cde0e1]”Uh... I think I’m going to be real honest here and say, I don’t think I could actually go for that. Remember you’re the one who said I have claustrophobia.”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”OK but what if we lowered the seats all down so it was all one big space and removed the roof?”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”Maybe, the roof being gone probably will help more than anything. I think I’d have to see it to be sure.”[/color] He shrugged. 

Chase smiled and kissed Ben. [Color=585c74]”Such a dork. You ready?”[/color] 

Ben kissed Chase back. [color=cde0e1]”I am if you are.”[/color] He started to stand, offering to help Chase back to his feet. 

Chase took Ben's hand, helping himself up nice and easy as he was afraid he may still fall back down. [Color=585c74]”Hey, Bug Boi? Thanks.”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”You walked me through what happened to me. And I wasn’t going to have my boyfriend not supported by me.”[/color] Ben smiled and pulled Chase into a hug. 

Chase froze. His hands caught midway into the hug as the words Ben said processed through his mind. Sure they'd talked about it a few nights ago before fooling around, but to hear Ben actually utter the words ‘my boyfriend’ and mean him. It felt, different. He'd dated before, had girlfriends before, and sure he still liked girls but to be [i]his[/i] boyfriend. He smiled, and melted right into Ben's arms with the hug. 

Ben felt the change in tension. He smiled. It was a relief. He probably didn’t handle that perfectly. But who could expect him to. He had never dealt with anything like that before. He held Chase tight, and let him end the hug. 

[Color=585c74]”So I know we kinda planned a whole thing around National Parks and nature and what not but…mind if we change pace a bit? Could you sit for a prolonged period of time with like entertainment and a meal?”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”I can sit through a movie. If it is something like that. I’m fine if you want to do that.”[/color] Ben loved this trip and if it changed a little bit from the plan he was happy with that. 

[Color=585c74]”Ever been to Medieval Times?”[/color] Chase grinned.

[color=cde0e1]”Uh, that sounds interesting. I don’t know what that is though.”[/color] Ben smiled back. 

[Color=585c74]”Oh its great! You get sorted to your own Knight by color, get crowns and they have swords and things for sale. It's a full dinner experience with jousting and other horse or knight related entertainment.”[/color] Chase pulled his phone out and looked up where it was. He hadn't been since he was a kid. [Color=585c74]”Oh…it's kinda far…maybe another time then? Otherwise we'll never make it to the other parks.”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”That sounds cool, but I don’t want to mess up our trip if go there. Where is it?”[/color] 

Chase turned the phone to show Ben the almost 4 hour drive back down south, away from where they were headed. [Color=585c74]”Sorta…past Death Valley. I hadn't been in a while and usually slept on long car rides so it seemed closer to me.”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”Oh wow that’s a ways away. Yeah, it’d be totally back tracking. Maybe if we have time when we get back, or another day soon.”[/color] Ben wanted to go, it sounded cool, but it didn’t seem like it would work. 

[Color=585c74]”What're the chances your Old Man has a secret jet that he can fly us down here in? Huh?”[/color]

Ben snorted. [color=cde0e1]”I don’t know. I suppose I could ask.”[/color] 

Chase fist pumped the air. [Color=585c74]”Oh please let him say yes!”[/color] He gasped. [Color=585c74]”What if your backyard splits open to reveal a whole ship storage right beneath it?!”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”We just moved there. So I doubt that. But I’ll ask.”[/color] Ben pulls out his phone and texts his Uncle. 

[Color=585c74]”Man I didn't think about what happens when you move. Does the plane stay with the property? Do you have to disclose on secret underground layers used for the government?”[/color]

Ben laughed, [color=cde0e1]”I have no idea. Suppose we can ask Matt later. Unfortunately, he does not have a plane. However, now he is worried about me. One moment.”[/color] He answered the call coming in from his uncle. Ben spoke to him for a minute reassuring him that there was nothing wrong. Really, it was totally fine.  

Chase got up right behind Ben near the middle of the call, yelling so that hopefully Matt could hear him. [Color=585c74]”Hey Mr. MOSS!!! THANKS FOR LETTING BEN OUT TO PLAY ITS BEEN SO MUCH FUN! WE'RE ON OUR WAY TO YOSEMITE BUT WERE CURIOUS ABOUT THE POTENTIAL TO FLY IN LA SOMEDAY!!! I THINK YOU'LL LOVE MEDIEVAL TIMES!!!”[/color]

Ben looked at Chase and mouthed, [color=cde0e1]”Oh my god.”[/color] He shakes his head and finishes his conversation with Matt. Once the call is over Ben looks at Chase, [color=cde0e1]”He was so confused.”[/color] Ben laughs. 

[Color=585c74]”Lucky you hung up. I was about to snag that phone and ask if he was done playing twenty questions so that I could get my boyfriend back.”[/color] Chase grinned.

Ben’s eyes went wide. Oh god he was going to have to tell Matt that Chase was his boyfriend. His face went red. 

Chase relished in the silence. [Color=585c74]”Don't tell me? All those daily updates to him and he doesn't know we're dating?”[/color] Chase faux gasped. [Color=585c74]”Am I to be kept secret? Hidden away like something shameful?”[/color] 

[color=cde0e1]”That isn’t what is happening. I don’t want him to be weird about us traveling alone.”[/color] Ben said. 

[Color=585c74]”So I shouldn't send him a photo of us in a single bed together?”[/color] His grin grew wider, more mischievous.

[color=cde0e1]”Absolutly not.”[/color] Ben said, [color=cde0e1]”Stop teasing me, let’s go.”[/color]

[Color=585c74]”But I like seeing you get all red and flustered. It's cute. Aaaand kind of a turn on.”[/color] Chase made his way into the driver's seat to start up the car once more. [Color=585c74]”What if I just kissed you when I drop you off? Oh! Or just call you babe?”[/color]

Ben got into the jeep and buried his head in his hands, covering his blushing face, but not his now red ears. [color=cde0e1]”Please, do not. Let me talk to him. I do not want him to realize how... uh adventurous we have been this week. God we’ve only been gone a few days he’d lose his mind.”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”Exactly! Think of how much more adventurous we can be.”[/color] Chase winked. [Color=585c74]”So much more exploring to do, things to try out, taste.”[/color] He started the car and began to pull them out of the shoulder and back towards Yosemite.

[color=cde0e1]”You might kill me from embarrassment.”[/color]  

[Color=585c74]”Can't blame me. It's the accent, even that sounds adorable and worthy of further teasing.”[/color] Chase placed his hand on Ben's lap, running his thumb against his thigh.

[color=cde0e1]”You’re the one with an accent. I speak the Queen’s English.”[/color] Ben sniffed. He did let go of his face, and squeezed Chase’s hand. 

[Color=585c74]”Saying things like ‘the queens English’ is exactly why I have to keep going.”[/color] 

Ben sighed. [color=cde0e1]”Punk.”[/color] 

[center][u][h2]Ben’s backstory[/h2][/u][/center]

Chase grinned at his small victory. As the music played and conversation lulled, Chase had been left alone with his thoughts. Most of which were about Ben in various manners. But there was one that kept nagging him. He chewed on his lower lip as he tried to find the right words, finally lowering the stereo to become background noise. [Color=585c74]”So uh…mind if I ask you a personal question back?”[/color]

Ben had been relaxing, as well as he could in the car, he sat up and was a bit more tense at the request. [color=cde0e1]”Seems only fair. Go ahead.”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”Clearly I didn't get my powers by any conventional or wanted means…how uh…how was it getting yours? Learning to talk to bugs and all that?”[/color]

Ben shifted again. [color=cde0e1]”I suppose my powers, the process is technically conventional. I am inhuman. I’m technically an alien. But...”[/color] Ben took a deep breath. [color=cde0e1]”But how that happened was not. There is supposed to be an official process. My uncle told me about it. He met some people on the moon, after the M-Pox thing happened. Anyway, I was skipping school. A group of us did it and we got caught. The bobby took me to my parents' work. They worked together at a lab that worked on the Mist, that’s the thing that caused M-Pox. But what is important is it also puts us inhumans through terrigensis, it is how we get our powers. Something went wrong, and a bunch of the mist was released. My parents died in the accident. I was... in this cocoon thing and they died.”[/color] His voice cracked. 

Chase tried hard to follow and listen to Ben's tale. Several things shooting through his mind as he did. First, Ben was an alien? [i]He[/i] was dating an alien? That's so cool, and kinda super hot. Second was the term bobby. It took him a bit, but he finally pieced together that it likely meant some form of law enforcement. The rest he didn't fully follow. The Mist? Matt went to The Moon? There was so much Chase was curious about until Ben mentioned that was how his parents died. [Color=585c74]”Oh, fuck. Shit man, I'm sorry. I…I don't know anything about this stuff you're talking about and I really don't want to be insensitive. But if you need to talk about it you know I'm here for you right?”[/color] Chase turned his hand over to hold Ben's, squeezing it.

[color=cde0e1]”I don't even really know how to explain most of it. But I know.”[/color] Ben smiled and squeezed Chase’s hand. [color=cde0e1]”Not as horrible, but it fucking sucks. The accident wasn't my fault. It would have happened even if I hadn't been there. But I was there. And the cocoon, I mean that literally. I was in it for ages.”[/color] He took a ragged breath. [color=cde0e1]”It was intense. I could feel myself changing, it hurt. I knew... I saw visions of insects. And that was weirdly reassuring and calming. When everything hurt and I was so... scared. Not to sound like a little kid. But I was terrified.”[/color]

Chase was fixated on the road, but every once in a while he side eyed Ben as he talked. [Color=585c74]”Woah woah woah. Few things here, let's not compare scars. What happened to you is equally horrible and cannot be diminished by what happened to me ok? Second you [i]are[/i] a little kid, and thats ok. We aren't heroes, and we don't have to be. Fuck we aren't even perfect my guy, well you and i together kinda are perfect but that's besides the point. The point of we are kids, we have powers, that's it. I'm sorry you went through all of that, I wish you hadn't but also…both these experiences led us to each other. Though, what're the odds we both got put into a small container to gain powers?”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”That's how it always works for my kind. It can be different lengths of time though. But you're right. We shouldn't compare. Also, I'm 14, not a little kid.”[/color] Ben looked out the side window. 

[color=cde0e1]”Do you mind if we pull over again? I need to move.”[/color]

Chase looked at the time on the console. He hadn't figured an hour had passed by yet but…[Color=585c74]”As you wish.”[/color] He began to turn the wheel and get them back off to the side of the road before finally parking. [Color=585c74]”Also you are a little kid, we both are. Unless your Old Man or my rents ask. Then we're full adults who know what we're doing and don't need any help.”[/color]

Ben smiled, but it was strained. As soon as the vehicle stopped he was out of it and several feet away, hands on his knees trying to center himself and calm his breathing. 

Chase watched, worried from within the car at how far and fast Ben had left. He figured it had to deal with what they were talking about, maybe thinking about that cocoon triggered some form of claustrophobia? Making Ben feel as if he was back in that space? Chase didn’t know, but he got out of the car slowly, cautiously, as he approached Ben. [Color=585c74]”Hey Big Ben, what do you need from me? What can I do to help?”[/color] Chase tried to give him space, not wanting to crowd someone who may feel as if they were stuck in a confined space, but he so desperately wanted to hug and hold his boyfriend in this time of need.

Ben didn’t say anything, he just reached out his hand, holding it out for Chase to grab. 

Chase instantly grabbed Ben’s hand. Holding it, squeezing it, kissing it as he knelt beside Ben. [Color=585c74]”Im here Babe, I’ve got you. Just focus on breathing ok?”[/color]

Ben nodded, he squeezed Chase’s hand. He looked at Chase, his eyes watering a little. [color=cde0e1]”Sorry,”[/color] he apologized. [color=cde0e1]”If it weren’t for the fact that I know small places bothered me before terrigensis I’d think that was the cause. But now that I know what to look for I can find instances of it all the way back as long as I can remember. I don’t know why I’m afraid of it, which is stupid,”[/color] Ben said once his breathing got under control enough. 

[Color=585c74]”It’s like the underwear aisle in men's clothing sections, or locker rooms. It’s fine, I get it. This -”[/color] Chase held up their hands held together [Color=585c74]”This is more important to me than some National Park. Those will always be here, they don't move and hardly change. But you with me? Making sure you're safe, happy, and having fun? That’s what matters to me, ok? So if I have to stop a few times to get you jumpin around like a mexican bean then that’s what I'll do. It’s not stupid, it's a phobia. You can’t exactly choose them or ignore them. I get it. Wanna know what I'm afraid of? It's so stupid.”[/color]

Ben stood up, he raised an eyebrow at the underwear aisle comment. [color=cde0e1]”What are you afraid of?”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”Puppets. They’re so damn creepy man. The way they look at you, the way they move. No thanks! Absolute horror shows those things.”[/color]

Ben smiled, [color=cde0e1]”I can kind of understand. I mean I like the muppets, but if you’re talking about marionettes those things are creepy,”[/color] Ben agreed. 

[Color=585c74]”I…didn’t think about muppets. I more meant the wooden kind. Jim Hensons are cool though, but like them and porcelain dolls…[/color] Chase shuddered at the thought. 

[color=cde0e1]”I feel better,”[/color] Ben sighed. [color=cde0e1]”Not just because you’re afraid of puppets. But getting out and catching my breath. Thank you.”[/color] Ben pulled Chase into a hug. [color=cde0e1]”I did not expect this. I didn’t expect to like you this much. I didn’t expect to break down so much, but I’m kind of glad. I would have never been this vulnerable with my mates back in London.”[/color] Ben didn’t call London home. 

Chase let out a sigh from his heart, a small exhalation in a moment of realization as Ben hugged him and caught him by surprise. Again, his hands were slow to react, frozen as his eyes went wide before finally holding his boyfriend in his arms. London, he had said London. Perhaps it was nothing, but the word had caught him off guard. [Color=585c74]”I’m really glad you do like me this much to be honest. I was so nervous that maybe what had taken so long for the answer back was because you were buying time to say no or hope that i gave up…I’m glad i was wrong about it.”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”I do like you.”[/color] Ben pulled back from the hug and looked Chase in the eyes. [color=cde0e1]”You’re very thoughtful, and fun, and [i]cute.”[/i][/color] 
All Chase could do was smile. How he got so lucky with such a cute guy? He’d never know. [Color=585c74]”Please, I'm nothing special. Im just showin a boy a few bugs around the wonderful state of California. That's all.”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”Yeah, and you want to know who has done that for me, or anything like that ever before? No one. Like yeah I went on trips with my parents, but the focus was never insects. It was their interests.”[/color] He shrugged. [color=cde0e1]”This is the coolest trip I’ve ever done, and with some of my favorite company.”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”You’re just saying that cuz you think I'm hot”[/color] Chase countered with a bit of a laugh. [Color=585c74]”Wait, some of? Now who all is this other favorite company? I’d like to have some words with them”[/color] 

[color=cde0e1]”The insects in my room.”[/color] Ben rolled his eyes. [color=cde0e1]”And while I do think you’re hot, I’m not saying this to yank your chain or anything. I am serious. Thank you.”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”I know I know, I'm just giving you a hard time is all. Beside’s im sure if you wanted to yank anything it would be more than my chain.”[/color] Chase placed a kiss on top of Ben’s head. [Color=585c74]”I really like being with you. I know we have like six more days left together but…im not exactly ready for them to end just yet.”[/color]

Ben leaned up against Chase again. [color=cde0e1]”Yeah, I don’t want it to end either.”[/color] He took a deep breath, taking in Chase’s scent. He was feeling better and like he could get back in the Jeep, he didn’t want to, but he could. 

[Color=585c74]”What’re the chances your Old Man would let you spend the night at my place sometime? Say..the night before schoo?”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”He would probably want to chat with Morgan before, but as long as he doesn’t know we’re dating, he’ll be okay with it. As soon as I tell him we’re dating that and this sort of thing might be off the table. He’ll be very ‘need a chaperone’ about things. The fact that we got away without an ‘adult’ on this trip was shy of a miracle that came about because he met Morgan,”[/color] Ben smiled. [color=cde0e1]”He is taking ‘being a parent’ duty very seriously. And he knows what my parents believed about raising a kid so he is trying to stay as true to that as he can.”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”Soooo. What if we just…never tell him. Like we're just two very close friends, history would call us roommates type deal.”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”You’re the one who was so upset I hadn’t already told him.”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”That was before his knowledge of us threatened the very existence of you in my arms at night.”[/color]

Ben laughed, [color=cde0e1]”Those are your choices, I keep you a secret, or I tell him and you never get to be alone with me ever again.”[/color] 

Chase pulled Ben in and began kissing him all over his face. Speaking between each and every kiss. [Color=585c74]”Secret. Secret. Definitely Secret. I want [i]all[/i] the time with you. So. Secret.”[/color] 

Ben giggled after the third ‘secret,’ [color=cde0e1]”Alright, alright, noted. Secret. This means you can’t be mad. I bet Morgan already knows hmm?”[/color] 

Chase scoffed, pulling out a condom from his pocket. [Color=585c74]”What do you think?”[/color] He laughed before sliding in Ben’s pocket. 

Ben’s face turned bright red. [color=cde0e1]”Yeahhhh, she knows.”[/color] He took a deep breath. [color=cde0e1]”Okay, I can get back in the car now. I don’t feel like I’m going to be squeezed to death by... something.”[/color]  

[Color=585c74]”Oh?”[/color] Chase smirked, squeezing Ben's ass. [Color=585c74]”I think there's can be plenty of squeezing going on.”[/color] His arms still around Ben's waist as he began to walk closer to the car but not letting go, taking steps to either side of Ben's feet as he dragged him back.

Ben yelped in surprise at the ass grabbing, and awkwardly shuffled with Chase back to the Jeep. [color=cde0e1]”Oh my god you’re silly.”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”As putty.”[/color] Chase pressed another kiss to Ben's cheek before opening the Jeep's door with one hand and lifting him into the seat. He placed his head on Ben's lap for a moment. [Color=585c74]”Oh you are absolutely going to ruin me aren't you?”[/color]

Ben was grinning, [color=cde0e1]”I have no idea what you mean my knight.”[/color] 

Chase's voice was gravely, low, a whisper as he stared off into the back of the car from Ben's lap. [Color=585c74]”My king I think you do, and I wouldn't have it any other way.”[/color] He looked up, slowly starting into Ben's eyes as a smile made its way before he lifted Ben's hand and kissed the back of it softly. 

Ben pulled Chase’s hand back and kissed his knuckles. From there the two of them kept driving and eventually after only a couple of hours they made it, this was probably the shortest drive the pair of them had. 

[center][u][h2]Yosemite[/h2][/u][/center]
Again they went into the visitor’s center, picked up maps, and their stamps. After Chase stamped Ben’s face he took a selfie and sent it to his Uncle again. It was cold, not freezing, and it had snowed here. They were lucky that it wasn’t actively snowing, but it was a little on the misty side. A lot of the snow had already melted, but there were still some large patches around. This was the perfect time to see some of the waterfalls, other than later in spring when the waterfalls would be glutted with snowmelt.

[Color=585c74]”Alright my King, have you fasted your eyes upon a waterfall?”[/color] Did London have waterfalls? Chase didn't know, but it was certainly a sight to behold, well sometimes. He'd gone to one National Park where the ‘waterfall’ was only about twice his height and the water was more of a trickle than a fall. He laced his hands into Ben's, pulling out his notes with the other. [Color=585c74]”So I did a little more digging since apparently bugs have cycles or whatever and some aren't in season. However, I did find two super cool ones that [i]are[/i] in season and I'd love to see and I'm sure you would too. The first is a Rugnose Stag Beetle, He's small but mighty. The second is a Pine Trogo..Tro, it's a cool looking Pine Beetle.”[/color]

Ben was in a way better mood with time and distance between their emotional breakdowns. Being in Yosemite was perfect too. The place was beautiful. It was fairly similar to Sequoia, but had different things to offer. 

[color=cde0e1]”I’ve seen a waterfall before, but happy to check out the one here,”[/color] Ben said, not realizing that Yosemite was host to over 25 named ones. [color=cde0e1]”Is that what you did last night while I was sleeping?”[/color] Ben knew about the cycles, which was why they hadn’t seen much in the way of butterflies since leaving Death Valley that, even in the dead of winter, was warm enough for them to survive. 

[Color=585c74]”Amongst other things yeah.”[/color] It felt weird to talk about. Taboo. He'd hidden the fact that he couldn't sleep from others for so long that…having someone who knew it felt, different. He couldn't tell how or why, but a small piece of him enjoyed it. 

Ben squeezed Chase’s hand and smiled. [color=cde0e1]”Well, lead the way, how long is the hike?”[/color] Ben knew Yosemite was supposed to be giant. And there was some really big slab of stone that he had seen pictures of. 

[Color=585c74]”Not gonna lie to ya, no idea. Since my beautiful and wonderful King is so fond of walks and open spaces I figured who cares how long it is. But I, your humble knight, can certainly pave the path for you.”[/color] Chase tugged gently on Ben's hand before venturing forth through the trails. [Color=585c74]”Pip pip Tally ho and all that good stuff.”[/color]

Ben laughed. [color=cde0e1]”You’re ridiculous.”[/color] Ben interweaved his fingers with Chase’s. [color=cde0e1]”I do like walks and open spaces. I thought that was just being a boy thing, but I guess there was more of a reason.”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”Oh yeah. Boys being boys, pals being pals, just bros being bros you know? Two dudes, nature, lots of wood between the forest and them.”[/color] Chase raised an eyebrow then laughed. It was adorable how Ben thought sometimes. 

Ben laughed again at Chase’s jokes. [color=cde0e1]”Yeah, there is so much wood here.”[/color] He laughed at his own joke. 

[color=cde0e1]”In my defense, I had no idea. I just hated it. I didn’t think about it.”[/color] He shrugged. 

[Color=585c74]”In your defense you also didn't know you liked two types of wood. Then again, neither did I until your rascally little face tried to kiss me.”[/color] Chase smiled, clearly fond of the memory of their first kiss.

Ben blushed, [color=cde0e1]”Wait, you didn’t know until I kissed you? You were coming on pretty strong for not knowing.”[/color] It was Ben’s turn to raise an eyebrow. 

[Color=585c74]”It was partially undecided. I worked things out with a therapist sure, but…I don't know man I'd never kissed a guy or been intimate with one before so I felt like…like maybe it wasn't real until it was. Doesn't mean I didn't find you down right adorable. Something about that ‘fuck off dont talk to me' attitude mixed with your adorably cute face and mannerisms made it hard to resist.”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”So that’s why you didn’t leave me alone. Despite me going to a different seat. Figures.”[/color] He bumped into Chase. [color=cde0e1]”Glad you didn’t leave me alone. I was in a bad place.”[/color] 

Chase bumped Ben back, a stupid grin on his face. [Color=585c74]”Im glad I didn't either. You uh, looked like you could've used a friend. I'm just glad I was able to be the one, and that that weird chick asked if we were dating.”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”Did she put the idea in your head? Even way back then?”[/color] Ben looked up, his cheeks a little rosy still. 

Chase rubbed the back of his neck. [Color=585c74]”Kinda? No? But also…yes? At first it was more for the bit you know? Just joking around trying to lighten the mood. When I saw you at the skatepark and realized I was maybe a little [i]too[/i] happy to see you, I figured why not continue the bit. And then we started texting and I found myself looking forward to the moments you were awake, and well it snowballed from there.”[/color] Chase looked away a little embarrassed, shy.

Ben smiled, he suddenly understood why Chase liked to tease him just to get a rise out of him. Chase looked cute with the embarrassed way he looked away. 

[color=cde0e1]”Too happy, oh? What does that mean?”[/color] Ben’s tone was light, and teasing.

[Color=585c74]”It [i]means[/i] that had I not been so nervous about having a cute guy watching me skate I wouldn't have eaten asphalt as much as I did. You dork. “[/color] 

Ben laughed, [color=cde0e1]”You know, getting you to blush is tough, but you still get a cute little shy look.”[/color] Ben grinned. [color=cde0e1]”I could tell you have skill, everyone spills. That’s like 90% of skating.”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”Me? Shy? Nah.”[/color] Chase chuckled as he rolled his eyes at Ben. [Color=585c74]”So uh, what made you wanna…you know? Kiss me.”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”You keep telling yourself that.”[/color] Ben grinned. [color=cde0e1]”Well, I wanted to know. I mean I knew I liked you, but I didn’t know how much, or what way. I figured if I liked kissing you then I’d know. Since I did,”[/color] Ben shrugged. [color=cde0e1]”Uh... react to kissing you. That meant I did.”[/color] God he had used a lot of ‘like’ he had been in California too long if it was seeping into his vocabulary like that. 

[Color=585c74]”React? How exactly did you react Benny Boi?”[/color] Chase leaned in closer, a whisper in his ears as he spoke the next question. [Color=585c74]”Or did your body react?”[/color] He pulled away, a shit eating grin on his face.

[color=cde0e1]”You know exactly what I mean. I refuse to be embarrassed by this,”[/color] Ben said with a straight face, though his cheeks were more red than could be accounted for by the weather. 

[Color=585c74]”Sire, are to say your sword had been stricken by the Medusa's glare? Entombed and hardened to stone by a mere kiss of your knights lips?”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”Are you sure you’re a knight and not an evil wizard in disguise?”[/color] Ben asked, with a raised eyebrow and a small smirk on his face. 

In an instant a pit formed in the center of Chase's stomach. His mood darkened as shame overtook any semblance of embarrassment he may have had. [Color=585c74]”I suppose that depends on who you ask, if you speak to Emrys he would say a dark wizard, he would think me a villain of darkness that cannot be brought to light, if you speak to the druids they may believe me a hero, the one meant to aid and restore. Perhaps I am both…”[/color]

Ben tilted his head catching the mood shift. He thought over what Chase said, he considered himself in this Mordred. He furrowed his brows. Was there an Emrys to his Mordred? Ben being Arthur? Was this Merlin the lost friend that Chase had mentioned? What had Ben said? He had definitely touched on a sore spot. 

[color=cde0e1]”No Merlin here. We are among the trees and the insects are the druids and they have no issue with you. I trust the insects.”[/color]

Chase's expression softened. His mood hadn't fully lifted, but Ben's words certainly cut through. [Color=585c74]”They are kind druids, and you a fair and just King.”[/color] He fell silent, staring up at the cold sky, his mind miles away yet Ben was ever present within it. [Color=585c74]”Sorry…”[/color]

Ben squeezed Chase’s hand, he watched as Chase’s expression softened. That was a relief. He had hit another of those pits.

[color=cde0e1]”You can talk about it if you want. Today seems to be that kind of day. Or we can join the insects in their prayers.”[/color] Ben had already said it before he realized he had told Chase enough times that all the insects thought about was food and sex. His cheeks reddened. 

Chase didn't want to talk about it. He wasn't sure if he'd ever want to with anyone, save maybe the one he hurt the most. He was about to say as much when Ben had offered another avenue for them to take. Chase didn't speak, he didn't answer with any words, he just pressed his finger against where he'd placed the condom in Ben's pocket and raised his eyebrow as if to ask if that was what he'd meant.

Ben considered it, for a moment considered back tracking, but realized he [i]did[/i] want that. He nodded, agreeing, with a shy smile.

Chase’s eyes widened with surprise. He hadn't actually expected Ben to say yes, hadn't thought that was what he meant by prayer. Nerves shot through him as he began to wonder if he was even ready for this. He looked at Ben, and his knees fell weak. [Color=585c74]”Oh…”[/color] It came out awkward, quiet, and nervous as hell as all he could do was smile before finally nodding yes himself. 

[color=cde0e1]”Where?”[/color] Ben asked softly. He did not want to do it on the trail, or really outside. Did they have a hotel again? Or were they sleeping in the Jeep? He [i]might[/i] be willing to try in the Jeep under certain conditions. 

[Color=585c74]”Behind a waterfall? Wait no, uh a clearing, or the – nevermind that ones not gonna work. Uh…”[/color] Chase quickly became flustered. Where would a good first location even be? They were in Yosemite, where could anyone hook up in Yosemite? And soon, because his geyser was ready to blow.

Ben looked around unsure where they could go. [color=cde0e1]”What if we found one of those half hollowed out trees off the path, and you cover us in shadow? We need the blanket though.”[/color]

Chase nodded silently. Had, had Ben been thinking about this all hike? A half hollowed out tree with shadows and a blanket. [Color=585c74]”I can get the covers, bedroll, anything you want. Do uh, do the bugs know a good tree spot big enough for us?”[/color]

Ben smiled, [color=cde0e1]”Great idea.”[/color] Ben reached out his hand and few bugs flew to him. He was still and quiet for a moment. [color=cde0e1]”That way, about 30 meters.”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”Fuck if I know what a meter is but let's go.”[/color] Chase walked at a pace normally reserved for gay men holding iced coffees as he dragged Ben alongside him, searching for the spot Ben was talking about.

Ben took the lead quickly, getting nudges from the insect that had told him where to go. Then he spun around a tree. The open part of the trunk had been burned through years ago, the ground had long since recovered. It was deep enough that they’d be hidden unless someone came all the way around like they had, but surprisingly large. It was big enough that even standing at full height Ben couldn’t reach the top of the opening, and after the first step in couldn’t touch the walls on either side at the same time. 

Chase was in love with the location. Not only did it provide them with the right cover and was spacious enough for…activities, but it was partially engulfed by shadows which made his powers easier to handle. [Color=585c74]”This is sick.”[/color] Chase began to look around, his hand moving the shadows as the bedroll and sheets came into the space, as well as a bag for them to put their clothes in so it didn't dirty while they went at it. [Color=585c74]”You sure?”[/color]

Ben thanked the bugs and shooed them away. He checked the area for insects too, pushing away the ones neither of them wanted near them while vulnerable. He shifted from foot to foot, thinking about what Chase said. 

[color=cde0e1]”Yeah. I am.”[/color] He nodded. 

Chase grabbed the edge of a shadow like a curtain and began to draw it over the opening of the tree, encasing them in darkness. 
[center][u][h2]Night[/h2][/u][/center]

Chase lay there with Ben's head resting upon his chest. They didn't have a hotel for the night, but the tree's hollow they'd found would do just nicely for the night. He ran his fingers through Ben's hair, playing with the dark curls as they wrapped around his fingers and he smiled. [Color=585c74]”How's my Bed Bug?”[/color]

Ben smiled at the nickname, [color=cde0e1]”I’m doing fantastic. You?”[/color] Ben was trailing his fingers up and down Chase’s chest slowly, just a light caress. He had been nervous and worried, but despite that he was glad they had done that.  

Chase tilted his head back, staring at the wooden canopy above. [Color=585c74]”Fuckin fantasic. It felt…is euphoric a word? Cuz it should be. Had I known prayer was more like this maybe I'd have gone to church more often.”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”It may only be like this for the insects. I’ve gone to Church, praying there is not like this. But when the Cathedral is like this, hard to not have great prayer.”[/color] Ben laughed at his own joke, his hand sweeping to encompass the the tree. [color=cde0e1]”Also, yeah euphoric is a word. It’s a good word. Definitely applies to this situation.”[/color] 

Chase began to chuckled to himself, covering his face with his arm for a moment. [Color=585c74]”Geeze we just had wood inside of wood.”[/color]

Ben laughed again, it was a soft, easy laugh. [color=cde0e1]”Well could be worse places to do that. Though maybe better ones if we had done that at the hotel.”[/color] Ben wrinkled his nose. But as he thought about that he realized today had been important. They needed to have the conversations they had today before it would have felt right. They each knew the other's worst parts, what scared them the most, what tore at them in the late hours of the night. Now they knew who the other was without the facades they carried. 

[Color=585c74]”I think the neighbors would've called Front Desk with how much you whimpered and how loud you could get. Probably best we did it out here.”[/color] Chase grinned. Teasing Ben was a full time job of course.

Ben gasped and looked up at Chase, his eyes big, [color=cde0e1]”Are you saying you didn’t like it?”[/color] He couldn’t keep a straight face perfectly, his lip turning up on one side. 

[Color=585c74]”Oh I [i]loved[/i] it and I think you're more than aware of that. Honestly it was more of a turn on than I'd ever expected.”[/color] Chase kept his arm over his face, covering the embarrassment of what he'd just said out loud.

Ben’s little grin turned into a large smile. [color=cde0e1]”Hmm, my job has only started. Find all the things that turn Chase on.”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”Top of the list is that smile, followed by the way you get shy and blush when I tease you, oh and when you call me your knight, let's not forget the way your body shudders when I touch certain places. Really the list goes on.”[/color] Chase laughed. 

[color=cde0e1]”Is that so,”[/color] Ben paused for a moment. [color=cde0e1]”My knight.”[/color] He was smiling, [color=cde0e1]”I suppose one day soon, when I’ve figured them all out. I’ll have to do all of them, and see what happens.”[/color]

The moment Ben called him his knight Chase felt his heart skip a beat, something else pulsed as well. [Color=585c74]”Maybe one day, and I'll have to return the favour. See just how many ways I can make you smile, and how many octaves you can hit in one go.”[/color]

Ben’s cheeks warmed up, he looked forward to that day. [color=cde0e1]”I am definitely keeping you a secret.”[/color] Ben snuggled closer. [color=cde0e1]”Hmm, we aren’t going to get caught and get trouble here right?”[/color] Ben considered asking some of the insects in the area to stand guard, but realized that once he was asleep Chase would be alone. He felt a pang of sadness. He wished he could be awake through the night, but he knew he wouldn’t be able to stay awake. 

[Color=585c74]”Only if we get caught. But if I feel that might happen I'll just move us somewhere else. No worries, you just sleep tight and I'll keep us hidden ok?”[/color] Chase pressed a kiss against Ben's forehead.

Ben moved so he could kiss Chase’s lips. [color=cde0e1]”Thank you, my knight,”[/color] he said softly. 





[center][u][h2]Jan. 6th, morning[/h2][/u][/center]

That night was harder than the ones before for Chase. With Ben so snuggled in him, he didn't want to move. Halfway into the night his arm had fallen asleep. At a certain point he'd contemplated making a shadowy duplicate of himself to hold Ben up as he went for a walk but decided against it. Instead he spent the night memorizing every detail of Ben's face, the way he looked so peaceful as he bolted within their very own cathedral, and there had certainly been a lot of worshipping done that day. 

The next morning finally broke, the sun's rays beaming through the opening within the tree and dancing across their faces while Ben still slept. Chase pressed a kiss against Ben's neck, then another, and another. [Color=585c74]”Bed Bug, rise and shine “[/color]

Ben made a noise of protest. He was not ready to wake up, though when Chase woke him up it was always more pleasant than the alarm clock. [color=cde0e1]”Can’t we just stay here forever?”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”Well aren't you just a regular little cuddle bug.”[/color] Chase sighed. [Color=585c74]”I think if we did your Old Man would get antsy after the 10th day and use his spy skills to find us and kill me.”[/color] 

Ben groaned. [color=cde0e1]”You’re right. And one of his powers is not something that you ever want to be on the receiving end of.”[/color] Ben sat up and rubbed his eyes. [color=cde0e1]”What is the plan today?”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”Wait wait wait, he has powers too? I feel like that's cheating. You can't be a secret spy [i]and[/i] have powers.”[/color] Chase followed suit, sitting up as he moved his arm around a little to help get feeling back into it from when Ben was laying on it. He flexed his hand slowly, open and close, to help his circulation. 

Ben looked surprised. [color=cde0e1]”Yeah, he is Inhuman too. And his powers are why he works for S.H.I.E.L.D. He had powers before the M-pox thing but basically anyone of my kind alive during that time got exposed. He has two powers, but he was an infiltration expert before he even had his first. He has the ability to pick up literally any weapon and is essentially perfectly proficient at it instantly. His other one is touch based but he releases a paralytic to whoever he touches, he can choose not to, hence why when he shook your hand you weren't paralyzed and he wasn't wearing gloves. That's the one you do not want to be on the receiving end of.”[/color] Ben had slept with his clothes on, putting them back on after their... prayers... the night prior. It was too cold to sleep naked. He stood up stretching a bit.

[Color=585c74]”The man can wield any weapon imaginable and you're telling me I should be worried about a paralytic touch?”[/color] Chase thought about that handshake, how he didn't know. He thought about any interaction with the Old Man now, any shoulder claps or greetings, any instance where in a moment he could've been had. [Color=585c74]”What the hell did I get myself into? I'm dating a cops kid holy shit. Oh if he ever finds out my ass is grass.”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”Well yeah, enough of a paralytic, you stop breathing. Great for field medical emergencies though.”[/color] Ben shrugged. He did laugh at Chase’s realization.

[color=cde0e1]”You asked to use his private jet, which he apparently doesn't even have one.”[/color]

[Color=585c74]”S-S-stop breathing? You're just glazing over that huh? OK, wow. What the fuck.”[/color] Chase rubbed his face with one hand as he tried to get back on track. [Color=585c74]”Definitely a secret.”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”And if he finds out? He is an agent for S.H.I.E.L.D. and was in the Special Boat Service with the Royal Navy before that.”[/color] Ben raised an eyebrow, [color=cde0e1]”Do you think he’ll be more upset about being [i]lied[/i] to.”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”It's not lying. You simply forgot to mention it happened.”[/color] Chase stood up in full, stretching his arms and back a bit. [Color=585c74]”It's fine, he won't find out. Oh! Maybe we will get assigned a room together at school!”[/color]

Ben gave a slight shrug. [color=cde0e1]”Like I said. Your choice. If he finds out on his own I don’t know what he’ll do, I doubt he’d actually hurt you. Mostly we’d just have a chaperone going forward.”[/color] Ben had a sudden image of the classic father figure threatening the boyfriend when he came to pick up the girl for prom and he started laughing. 

[Color=585c74]”Right. Right. Chaperone isn't so bad, I'll just have to steal kisses when I can then.”[/color] There was a sly grin on Chase's face as he thought about coming in through Ben's windows at the dead of night. [Color=585c74]”I could probably sneak in without him knowing too.”[/color]

Once Ben had stopped laughing, he wiped at his face. [color=cde0e1]”The shadow teleportation helps, he is an infiltration expert though. So give me a warning and I’ll have music playing or something. That’s not new. So am I telling him?”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”Wha? Benny Boi please, when did I ever say tell him? I'm saying if he finds out I can try and sneak us around a bit. Like maybe…coming through the shadows of your covers at night?”[/color] Chase knew this was a stupid idea, this kind of thing never worked out well for those sneaking around, but he did enjoy the thrill of it. [Color=585c74]”Besides, we'll be at school most of the year anyways so it wont matter much you know? He can't stop us from going to another's dorm.”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”Hmm, I don’t know if taking me out of the house, when I’m supposed to be there, is a great plan. But we can always try. And yeah, you’re right. Once we’re in the dorms I don’t think it’ll be an issue.”[/color] Ben smiled. [color=cde0e1]”Alright, what is the plan for today?”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”Spend a little more time here, see if there's any more sights or bugs you want to look at, then food, head out for another long drive and make it to the next park near sun down probably. Had I known about the whole car thing I'd have planned a less intensive road trip. But that just means I'll have to get better at my doorways, so you won't need to worry about it anymore.”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”Sorry,”[/color] Ben did feel a little bad about the car thing. He hadn’t realized how big California was. He hadn’t realized how much car time would be required. But it did make him smile that Chase was willing to put in the work to improve his shadow teleportation for his sake. [color=cde0e1]”There are always bugs I want to see,”[/color] He said, focusing on that part.

Chase ruffled Ben's hair. [Color=585c74]”Oi, don't be sorry. You can't help it and I wasn't aware. Nothing to do about it now, but now I know for the future. So let's turn that frown upside down and find some merry bugs.”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”There are always cool insects to find.”[/color] Ben looked around, [color=cde0e1]”Want help gathering everything?”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”I've got it.”[/color] Chase gripped at a few shadows with his hands, peeling them off the surface as he threw it over their belongings like a blanket. At first it settled over them, a silhouette of what was beneath it, before it sank down and blended into the ground. [Color=585c74]”Gathered up my lord.”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”Thank you, my knight.”[/color] Ben considered bowing, but knew that wasn’t correct, so he made up a salute. His right hand, in a fist, touched his left shoulder. [color=cde0e1]”Shall we go speak with the druids?”[/color] 

Chase bowed down for Ben, extending a hand out to signal the way out of their hollow. [Color=585c74]”After you my lord.”[/color]

Ben laughed, and headed out of the hollow tree. They’d have to backtrack a bit to get back to the trail. He sent a couple bugs from around to check if anyone was around so they’d not accidentally get caught. When the coast was clear, Ben walked back onto the path. 

[color=cde0e1]”You mentioned waterfalls yesterday, before we got distracted.”[/color] 

Chase had considered making a joke, teasing Ben about wanting to get wet again so soon, but decided better not to. [Color=585c74]”Yeah this way.”[/color] He laced his hand in Ben's, leading the way towards the falls. [Color=585c74]”So uh, I kinda had a question about yesterday. But I uh, I dont wanna seem insensitive I just don't really know much about this kinda stuff…can I ask or?”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”You can ask me anything,”[/color] Ben told Chase. 

[Color=585c74]”So you're like…an alien? Right?”[/color] 

[color=cde0e1]”Genetically speaking. But my family has been here long enough that it was forgotten. My grandparents didn’t know. But we think their parents might have. Their parents were friends,”[/color] Ben explained. [color=cde0e1]”Why?”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”Oh, so you don't have like a home planet you've been to or anything. I dunno, was more curious than anything. It's kinda cool…’He came from outer space’”[/color] Chase held his hands out with only the forefinger and thumbs out as he spread his hands apart as if to reveal the title, his voice dropping to a more deep announcer voice. [Color=585c74]”I knew my boyfriend was out of this world but didn't think it was literal.”[/color]

Ben smiled at Chase’s joke. [color=cde0e1]”Well, I don’t know a lot about the history prior to 2021, but what I do know I learned from Matt. There are many on the moon. But Matt’s interaction with them... was not a great one. He went there to try to help and they were kind of assholes. They wouldn’t help, they said the deaths of M-Pox were worth it. So there is a colony on the moon, but I’ve never been, and probably never will.”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”The moon? Really? No offense but thats kinda lame. I figured they had their own planets with weird plants and animals.”[/color] Chase shrugged. [Color=585c74]”Also, they sound like dicks. Probably because they're on the moon.”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”No offense taken. As far as I’m concerned I am not associated with those people,”[/color] Ben shrugged. [color=cde0e1]”They are dicks. They killed an untold amount of people.”[/color] His knowledge was stories from his Uncle, and his Uncle didn’t know everything. 

Chase froze for a moment before continuing to walk ahead. He hadn't meant him, he hadn't meant him. He kept telling himself that over and over in his mind. Ben didn't view him as a dick for the people whose lives he took, he'd said as much beforehand. Yet the comment still stung a bit. [Color=585c74]”Funny, neither of you two seem alien. I expected at least some antennae. Actually you'd look super cute with a pair of them.”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”Could be that we are designed to blend in? Or maybe we always looked human?”[/color] Ben shrugged, his cheeks reddining a little with the comment about looking cute with antennae. 

[Color=585c74]”Or humans look like you guys. Who knows. I sure as fuck don't. I don't even know where my powers come from aside from some bottles and shit. Don't even know what I am, but wait…are all Inhumans bug themed? I feel like paralytic touch is very on brand for bugs.”[/color]

Ben shifted his shoulder opposite of Chase when he mentioned where his powers came from. What had happened to Chase upset him. He squeezed Chase’s hand a little, continuing to walk. [color=cde0e1]”No, my mom’s powers weren’t anything bug themed. She had telekinesis.”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”Bug coded. I feel that's a very Butterfly-esque type power along with other mental things like putting people to sleep. Which…would make you the King of Inhumans.”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”Tell that to Marlena.”[/color] Ben snorted. [color=cde0e1]”I am not the King of the Inhumans. I don’t even want to take the title of King of the Insects.”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”Oh? Why?”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”They are their own creatures. I cannot understand them in the way that they’d need. And insects are so diverse. One king to rule them all is not reasonable.”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”A benevolent king indeed.”[/color] Chase smiled as he looked at Ben out of the corner of his eye. 

Ben smiled. The pair of them walked for a while longer, eventually coming to a path that was carved into the side of the mountain. It had a rail, and steps. They were at the base of a large waterfall. It flowed, though not as intensely as it would after the snow melt got really going. Ben whistled quietly. 

[color=cde0e1]”Wow, that’s a cool looking waterfall.”[/color] 

Chase turned his head to the side. [Color=585c74]”It's usually more impressive, guess the snow kinda bummed out the water.”[/color] He held Ben close, wrapping his arms around him as they stood to watch the scenery.

Ben leaned into Chase. [color=cde0e1]”It is winter, and the snow isn’t melted.”[/color] He shrugged a little. Then carefully pulled out his phone and snapped a photo of the waterfall. He would send it to Matt later, when it was later and them being at the park at this hour wouldn’t be suspicious. 

Chase snapped a photo of the two of them, then realized that the waterfall wasn't in them because they were in front of him. He still liked the photo, but temporarily turned the pair to snap one with the waterfalls in it. Sending both pics to Ben.

Ben smiled, looking at the pictures. He was [i]not[/i] sending the one of the two of them to his Uncle. Matt would absolutely catch that the two of them were holding onto each other. It was a good picture though. He was tempted to make it his phone's background, but for the same reason decided against it. He frowned. Ben wasn’t sure he wanted to hide this. It was going to stress him out. 

[color=cde0e1]”Do you want to draw it?”[/color] 

Chase kissed the top of Ben's head. [Color=585c74]”Abso-fucking-lutely.”[/color] Chase let go of Ben and pulled out his sketchpad as he began getting to work. [Color=585c74]”What'll you do?”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”Wander around a bit and check out the insect life. I won’t go far, so don’t worry.”[/color] Ben smiled. He was so happy. This was wonderful. 

[Color=585c74]”Fine fine. Go skitter about my sweet bug. I'll be here. If you need anything, any help at all, scream and send bugs. Ok?”[/color] 

Ben kissed Chase’s cheek. [color=cde0e1]”I will. You’ll know if I need help.”[/color] Ben doubted he would, but he didn’t want Chase to worry. 

Chase pulled out his phone, opening up the image of them two together in front of the falls as he flipped to a new page and began sketching that out instead. He wanted to make two of them, one for Ben as a gift once all the watercolors were fully dried. A keepsake for the trip.

Ben started walking around, he traced an area near where Chase sat, that was a reasonable distance away without leaving eye sight. He did go behind some trees but not for long. He rambled about checking out little nooks and crannies and generally exploring the area. 

The whole time Chase couldn't help but glance from the side of his eyes at wherever Ben went. Sure the waterfalls were beautiful, but the true beauty was his boyfriend enjoying nature. He couldn't help but shake his head as he grabbed a scrap piece of paper and wrote down “You're too cute. ❤️” before folding it up and flicking it through the shadows and in front of Ben.

Ben noticed the paper coming from the shadows, he grinned and picked it up. Upon opening it, he blushed. Damn Chase could make him blush so easily. He yelled, [color=cde0e1]”And you’re hot!”[/color]

Chase waved the comment away, his shyness coming back in full force as Ben yelled that for all to hear. He went back to his sketch, still stealing glances from time to time.

Ben grinned, knowing he had gotten Chase back. He went back to his wandering around the place. Carefully checking under logs and other places that a bug might be hanging out. He would pause and chat with them when found, before going back to wandering around. 

A few hikers came through, looked at the waterfall, took their photos and headed up to the higher places of the Yosemite. There was a lot to see there. But Ben was happy where they were. It was cold and the hikes were not easy. He had done hikes, but England was a lot flatter than this place. Not flat, just flatter. And he had never gone Spelunking, the abject horror at the idea was a good enough reason for him. 

Chase had finished his sketch, pulling out his watercolors as he began to paint the under layer of his design. He wanted it to be perfect, he wanted Ben to like it. But it may be difficult to display it anywhere beyond school if they were to stay hidden. He stopped for a moment thinking about it. It felt so…limiting.  The thrill of sneaking out and in was great, but he wanted so much more, Ben deserved so much more.

Ben had found a perfect spot for insects. He had sat down, getting his pants muddier than he’d like, but was currently chatting away with the handful of insects he had found there. They had, before he reached out, started to scramble away. He didn’t have any issues once he connected to them though. Insects were chill with him. He was thankful for that. He looked up over at Chase, he seemed lost in what he was doing. Ben smiled, and took a quick photo of him, bent over his art. That was Chase, and damn did he [i]like[/i] him. 

As Chase waited for the water colors to dry before doing the next layer, he decided to get them a hotel for the night over by the Lassen Volcanic area. As much as he didn't mind staying outdoors with Ben and sleeping under the stars, he noticed Ben getting his clothes a little dirty once again. That and, Chase wouldn't mind another hot shower, last night's activities while fun, did make him sweat and he desperately felt the need to bathe. He couldn't afford anything incredibly fancy, but something nice would do for the two of them.

Ben sent Danni a text. It was the picture of the waterfall. He also did his check in with Matt. It was late enough now that he had seen some regular people coming through that he felt confident that Matt wouldn’t think it weird that they were there that early. He sent the photo of just the waterfall, wishing he could send the one Chase had taken of them standing in front of it. 

The photos of them getting their passport stamped were silly and safe to send. This one was too intimate. He made the waterfall picture his background. It wouldn’t be the one of both of them in front of it, but he could imagine them standing there holding each other. He could look at it and [i]know[/i] what it represented. 

Ben couldn’t ask the insects for advice. They were very bad at understanding the complexities of human life. That was okay, they didn’t need to understand. Lucky them. 

Chase was about to send a message to Ben, when he noticed he was already on his phone. He was more than likely texting his Uncle, but it didn't mean Chase couldn't tease his boyfriend a little. So he shot off a text to him instead, that way Ben would see it appear on his screen.

[Hider=@Ben]You texting your Old Man or is that your other boyfriend?[/hider]

Ben opened the message from Chase, he sighed, and responded.

[hider=@Chase]Matt and my [i]friend[/i] Danni.[/hider] 

Chase smiled at his phone before looking towards Ben and smirking. He took a quick video of himself winking and converted it into a GIF before sending it off along with another message.

[Hider=@Ben]”Uh huh. I was also your [i]friend[/i]. He's cute at least. Definitely a good pick.[/hider]

[hider=@Chase]Attachement: photo of Ben sticking out his tongue.[/hider]

[hider=@Chase]Are you suggesting something??[/hider]

[Hider=@Ben]”Nay my lord. Simply that his lordship seems to have many a knight and could begin to start a round table.[/hider]

Ben stood up and walked over to Chase, [color=cde0e1]”Tired of texting someone sitting five meters away. What does that mean?”[/color] 

Chase had ready began his next layer of paints when Ben's shadow covered him and he looked up. [Color=585c74]”What do you mean? I'm lost at where you're lost at.”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”I mean, your text about starting a round table. I don’t understand what you’re getting at.”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”Calm down, I was just joking around. You know I don't mind you texting your friends. But with how often you do it you'd think you had two boyfriends. But really, I don't mind, I'm just teasing you.”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”I want you to know, I wouldn’t cheat on you or anything. Danni is just a good friend. I told you, I had plans with him that I canceled to do this trip. But I’m keeping him apprised of where we’re going and the bugs I’ve seen.”[/color] Ben paused, licked his lips and then said. [color=cde0e1]”I haven’t told him we are... dating.”[/color] 

[Color=585c74]”I wasn't suggesting you were cheating on me.”[/color] Chase raised his eyebrow. [Color=585c74]”I meant more like a poly type deal. But glad to know you wouldn't cheat. Though…why uh…why haven't you told him? I mean you could I guess but, I mean. You know what? Nevermind.”[/color] His attention back on painting in a few more details.

Ben sat down, pulled his knees in and wrapped his arms around them. He sat there quiet for a bit. He hadn’t told Danni about him and Chase yet. He wasn’t sure why. Part of him felt it was because he was afraid of how Danni would react. He considered that. What was he worried about? Danni was his friend. He wanted him to make friends. What would be the reaction that Danni would have that Ben was afraid of? Anger? If Danni was angry what did that mean? Ben chewed his lip, looking at Chase as he painted. 

[color=cde0e1]”I didn’t want to hurt his feelings. He has been left by friends for their partners before. I don’t want to do that to him.”[/color] 

Chase paused in his painting, lifting his brush so the color didn't pool in one section. He placed the brush against his small tray and looked towards Ben. [Color=585c74]”That's fair. But if you feel this might be an issue we can always hang out together. As long as I'm with you I'm happy, you don't have to pick between the two and I'd hate for your [i]friend[/i] to hate me because I steal you away. But…wont he be angry when he finds out we are dating? He'll think you lied to him about the whole trip, which you didn't, but he may not see it that way. Maybe…tell him that I just asked you out today, at the waterfalls. So that way you preserve his feelings and allow for him to know going forward. Also tell him he's more than welcome on the next trip. I don't mind sharing, but you're still my cuddle bug.”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”We’ll still find alone time?”[/color] Ben asked, softly.

Chase placed his book on the ground as he scooted closer to Ben and pulled him into his arms. [Color=585c74]”Of course we'll still find some alone time. Not even special agent Old Man could stop that from happening. But that doesn't mean that you, or us, can't spend some of that time with your friends.”[/color]

Ben nodded, [color=cde0e1]”Alright. I’ll tell him. Thank you.”[/color] Ben leaned forward and kissed Chase. [color=cde0e1]”Go back to your art.”[/color]

Chase pulled him back in and peppered him with kisses. [Color=585c74]”Go back to your other boyfriend and bugs.”[/color] He smirked before sticking his tongue out and resuming his paints.

Ben huffed, but he was smiling as he stood back up and went back to his wandering. He pulled out his phone and started texting Danni again. 

Chase had continued to work on his painting for Ben, stealing whatever glances he could to see his boyfriend from time to time as he wandered about or sat with bugs. Every time he did it made him smile before he rolled his eyes at himself and went back to work. His tongue sticking out in extreme focus anytime he began to go near a delicate section he didn't want to mess up. After some time he put the water colors away, pulling out a few micro pens to add a bit more highlights or details he otherwise couldn't get with a brush and water.

Ben spent the time examining plants and bugs and things. He was happy doing this. He was also texting Danni. Going back and forth about things, revealing that Chase had asked him out. He was vague about it, not actually lying. It felt good to tell him the truth. He didn’t really understand why Danni was calling Chase ‘Sauna boi’ but if Chase owed Danni a sauna trip, he’d make sure it’d happen.

Once the finishing touches had been placed, Chase carefully pulled the page out of his book. He wrapped shadows over it as they slithered towards Ben and the image appeared before him. Chase holding up some heart hands towards Ben. 

When the shadows moved, Ben put away his phone. He looked at the painting and then over at Chase. He had a huge smile on his face. Ben gently took the painting and held up the k-pop heart. Rejoining Chase he hugged him and kissed his cheek.

[color=cde0e1]”This is awesome thank you. Also you owe Danni a sauna apparently. You know him?”[/color]

Chase looked away shyly. [Color=585c74]”Yeah yeah, we danced at the stupid party. I told him that we could figure out if I like saunas next time we met again. He never gave me his number soooo it was more of a see you at school kinda deal.”[/color] He shrugged. [Color=585c74]”Didn't even know his name or realize who he was until you showed me that pic.”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”He didn't realize who you were till I sent him the pic of us.”[/color] Ben laughed it was a bit ironic.

[Color=585c74]”Oh, uh…what um. What Pic?”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”The one we just took here.”[/color] Ben said, and little worry coming into his voice. Would Chase be upset about that?

[Color=585c74]”I…don't know what I expected. That makes the most sense, and we don't exactly have many together.”[/color] Chase immediately thought that they'd need to correct that. He'd want to need to swim through photos of them as he searched for something in his phone's gallery. 

[color=cde0e1]”I think any others are of us with the stamp.”[/color] Ben relaxed a little. Chase wasn't upset.

[Color=585c74]”We should take more together. Actually, one sec.”[/color] Chase stood up and pulled Ben into a passionate kiss, quickly snapping a photo of the two of them kissing before pulling away to look at it. [Color=585c74]”Perfect.”[/color] He set the image as his phone's background.

Ben's heart rate spiked during the kiss. He took a couple deep breaths when Chase pulled away.

[color=cde0e1]”Don't let my uncle see your phone screen,”[/color] Ben said when he saw what Chase did. He held up his phone showing the photo of the waterfall without them. 

[Color=585c74]”I keep my phone locked. See?”[/color] Chase held up the lock screen, showing an image of him mid-air doing a skateboarding trick as he was silhouetted by the sun directly behind him as it set. 

Ben nodded. [color=cde0e1]”Okay,”[/color] he smiled brightly. [color=cde0e1]”So, what's next?[/color]

[Color=585c74]”A roughly six hour long ride to the next park. I…may have booked us a hotel for the night too. I desperately want a shower after last night. I can still feel the sweat on me.”[/color] Chase made a disgusted face at the idea of sweat still clinging to him. 

Ben grimaced. Six hours. [color=cde0e1]“If it weren't with you I'd actually go insane.”[/color] He did not seem bothered about not having showered.

[Color=585c74]”Give it time. I might drive you crazy yet. So you ready to head out?”[/color]

[color=cde0e1]”Yeah, I am.”[/color] Ben squeezed Chase's hand.