Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The cold winter breeze blew gently through the desolate town. The sun shone down harshly, yet none of the snow seemed to melt under it. All the townhomes were littered with icicles and snow patterned on top of the slanted roofs. The winter fog covered the porches and sidewalks all over. Although to this small town, this was just another ordinary day.

However, not for the kids. This was the first day of school. Teens and children alike were already awake and getting themselves ready, making sure they look the absolute best for all their friends that they hadn't seen in so long. Stan Marsh is one of them.

As he brushed his long raven hair, he hummed to himself. He wasn't planning on looking too fancy, it was just school after all. This was his senior year, the last time he would have to put up with high school. He put his abnormally long hair into a small ponytail in the back, to not look like he hadn't gotten a trim in 4 years. Downstairs his mother was cooking, and his father was off somewhere already getting drunk. Stan put on his usual brown coat and his red ski beanie and head downstairs to eat.

"Oh! Stan, you're already up! I thought I was about to come to get you myself. Here, I made some eggs", His mother hummed. She was gleefully smiling at the smaller boy. "Oh, thank you, mom, but I don't think I'm hungry", he lied. "I ate early last night, I'll just buy some lunch at school with the money I earned yesterday." His mother frowned at his suggestion but kept her joyful tone. "That's alright Stanley. I am just glad to see you up and ready so early! I can drive you to school today if you'd like." Stan scowled at her. He didn't like being driven to school, just because his mom could be a bit excessive and embarrass him while dropping him off. "I'll just take the bus", He shrugged, "Just like in elementary school." His mother sighed and nodded, and in response, Stan grabbed his bag and walked out the door to the bus stop.

Stan's friends still took the bus, except for Kenny who got a car as soon as he turned sixteen and now drove to school every day. As stan walked up to the sign, the snow crunching beneath his feet, he took a deep breath and waited for the others.

Kyle was the first to show up. "Hey, Stan!" He called while walking up. Stan turned and smiled at him. The ginger-haired boy high-fived him and hugged him. Kyle was gone all summer on some vacation, so seeing him for the first time in three months felt like a twenty-year reunion to Stan. "Hey dude, how was Costa Rica?", Stan asked. Kyle's eyes beamed. "Nevermind that, we should talk about how I finally got a boyfriend!" Stan's stomach sank to his feet. He loathed this subject. All of his friends are always pressuring him to get a girlfriend and he could not stand it. Still, Stan forced a smile. "Oh, great dude. Where did you meet him?" Stan asked. Surely he didn't date, somebody, he met in another country. "You know that buddy system, where you show new kids around the school right before summer break ends? Well, he was one of them. After the tour, I asked him to hang out again sometime. And things led to another and here we are!" Stan's forced a smile remained, yet inside his heart ached. Did he hang out with someone he just met before him? They had been best friends since they were babies.

"His name is David, and he's sweet." Stan tilted his head. "Dah-veed?" Kyle scoffed. Before Kyle could continue, a fat arm reached itself around his shoulder.

"Hey Kyle, Hey Stan!" Cartman bellowed. Kyle shoved his arm off of him and yelled at him to fuck off. "Whoa! Chill out! It's not like I killed your parents." Cartman laughed to himself, while Kyle and Stan just stared. "So, what were you two talking about?" Kyle's eyes once lit up again. "I got a boyfriend!" Cartman's expression changed. It wasn't angry, nor was it upset, but rather confused. "You... You got a boyfriend before I got a girlfriend?" Kyle grinned. "Fuck yeah I did", Kyle threw his head back and laughed.

Before any of them could get one last word in, the bus came to a loud stop in front of them. The bus driver opened the doors and they all piled in the already crowded bus.

Stan sat by himself, gazing out the window. They were the last group picked up by bus, so arriving at the school was a quick and easy task. The bus pulled to another halt in front of the school. Almost every kid was outside the school. talking to friends they hadn't seen in three months. Some students Stan had never seen were mindlessly wandering through the swarm of people. Maybe one of them was David. The bus opened its doors and everyone poured out. Stan stood in front, waiting for his friends. Though, when the bus drove off and his friends did not come out, it hit him that they were already off and walking. With his face red with embarrassment, he turned around and started walking towards the doors. He kept his head down, watching his feet.

All of a sudden, a different pair of feet bumped right into him. Stan recoiled, and the other person dropped their computer and books.

"Ah shit, Im sorry man", Stan hissed as he bent over to pick up their books and computers. "Oh no! you're wonderful, I just wasn't watching where I was going!" The other replied cheerfully. Stan lifted himself and gave the blonde hair kid his stuff back. That's when Stan realized who he was talking to. Everything clicked. The blonde hair, cheery tone, and pale skin.

"Gary?" Stan muttered under his breath.

"Have I met you before?" Gary tilted his head. Stan panicked. When he walked out of Gary's life ten years ago he thought he would never see him again, especially since the Harrisons moved shortly after. Stan stepped back. "Oh, It's uh... It's me, Stan." Gary's eyebrows went up in shock. Stan rubbed his shoulder. "Uhm. Yeah. Sorry." Stan chuckled. Gary smiled softly and stuck out his hand.

"Hi, Stan. Nice to see you again." Gary smiled, though Stan backed up. ten years ago, Stan denounced mormons in front of all of Gary's family, in which Gary told him they shouldn't be friends anymore. Stan looked him up and down. "Wait what? I thought... you hated me?" Stan tripped on his own words. Gary seemed to take offense to those words as he stepped forward close to Stan and shook his head."Of course not! why would I?" Stan looked around him as if Gary was playing a trick on him. Gary chuckled and held his arm. "I understand why you were upset that day, we were all too pushy and touchy. It's not your fault you were uncomfortable!" Stans's mouth was ajar. "Wow. I mean, thanks for that... that means a lot that you understand. but I was being a dick back then, and Im sorry about that." Stans's face was red with embarrassment, he didn't expect his first day of school to go like this. Gary jumped in surprise. "What? No! That's nonsense, but it's good to apologize! I hope that maybe we can be friends again?"

Slowly, Stan reached his hand out and shook Gary's hand. Gary and Stan smiled at each other, both of them waiting for the other to say something. "So what's your schedule-" Stan was cut off by the bell, meaning both of them were about to be late. "Shit, I got to go. Hopefully, we have some classes together." Stan huffed. Gary smiled back, "I hope so too!" Stan rushed off into the building, looking for his first period.

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An hour passed, and at that, the first period was over. The bell pierced threw the air, and everyone stood up to find their second period. Stan looked down at his schedule. The first period was full of kids he didn't like, he hoped the next period would be different. He hoped that maybe Kyle would be there, or Kenny, Cartman, Gary. Stan covered his face with disappointment as he walked into the classroom. Another period with no friends.

"Pst, Stan." A voice whispered behind him. Stan turned around curiously to see his friend Clyde.

"Oh shit hey, what's up?" Stan asked, moving his seat next to Clyde. Clyde was next to Thomas in the corner. Clyde grinned and waved at him. "I thought it was about to be just me and Thomas this whole class," Clyde remarked. "Ugh, yeah I know, I had to deal with that all last period." Stan groaned. Clyde chuckled as Thomas handed him a pencil, which Clyde turned around and kissed his cheek. Stan gagged. "So, how was your summer?" Clyde asked him. Stan shrugged. "Boring. Didn't do much except sit around and watch tv." Stan chuckled to himself. "Yeah I get that, me and Thomas really just hung out with Craig and those guys all summer. You know how it is, just sitting around with friends waiting for something fun to happen." At least you did something… Stan thought to himself. Clyde shrugged. "But it whatever. doesn't really matter anymore." Stan turned to face the front of the classroom and kicked his feet up.

Class after class, it was the same all day. He finally reached the end of school. In his last class, the bell rang per usual. And with that, everyone sat up and begin packing up to go home. Stan grabbed his bag and laptop and walked out the doors. He tried his best to peek over everyone's head, looking for Kyle, Cartman, and Kenny, who had abandoned him earlier. When he didn't catch a glimpse of them, he sighed and continued walking until a hand grabbed his shoulder. Stan swung around to be met by his blonde friend Kenny.

"Kenny! Jesus fuck you scared the hell out of me." Kenny giggled underneath his bushy parka hoodie. "Hey dude, I guess we don't have any classed together." Kenny finally said. Stan groaned once more. "You think? I've been alone all day!" Kenny rolled his eyes, "When have you not been alone?" Stan laughed, even if it was a jab at him. "Seriously dude, you need to pick up the pace and get laid, it's getting sad," Kenny said. Stan looked at him with disgust. "Ew Kenny what.?" Kenny laughed and pushed past him. "I got to go catch my bus, praying for you dude!" Kenny disappeared into the abyss of people.

Stan made his way outside the school and looked around. His bus had not arrived yet. Stan went to sit down on the concrete and noticed Cartman and Kyle conversating on the brick nearby.

"There you dickweeds are, I was looking everywhere for you guys!" Stan shouted at them. "Im sorry dude! I thought you were right behind us but when i turned around you were just gone!" Stan rolled his eyes. "Aww, another lover quarrel?" Kyle shot Cartman a deep glare, causing Cartman to retreat. Kyle sighed and looked away from him. "But seriously, we are sorry." Stan rolled his eyes, "Yeah sure whatever, how was your day?" He said sitting down. Kyle shrugged. "Fucking boring." He chuckled. Cartman pouted. "I had every single class with the fucking diabetes kid. That's such bullshit."

"Hey, Stan!" A familiar voice chimed behind him.

Stan turned around to see Gary standing behind him. Kyle stood up, "What the fuck, Gary? I thought you moved away?" Cartman remained sitting, scowling. "I did too." Gary smiled gleefully. "I did, but my parents really liked it here, so I guess we just moved back!" Gary moved up next to Stan. "You're seriously friends with him again?" Kyle asked. Stan nodded, feeling his face heat up. "He literally told you he didn't want to be friends anymore and then just ditched you!" Gary looked down and frowned. Stan took notice and elbowed Gary to pick his head up.

"Why does that matter to you, Kyle?" Stan confronted him. Kyle furrowed his brow. "Because I've been your best fucking friend since pre-k! Maybe you should listen to the advice I give you, here's some! drop him!" Stan was practically millimeters away from Kyle. Cartman put his hands up. "C'mon fight!" He shouted. Gary sweated, trying to grab Stan's arm to pull him back. "Stan maybe you shouldn't..." "Kyle, why the fuck do you care about what I do so much?" Stan interrupted. Kyle practically turned red. "Because I don't want you to fall into the same fucking trap with some guy you barely know!" Kyle shouted. "This is ridiculous, there is absolutely no reason for you to be angry with me right now," Stan remarked. Kyle shrugged. "Fine! I don't like him! I don't like Gary, and I never have!" Gary's smile slightly faded, as if taken aback by Kyle's words.

Stan rolled his eyes. "You say that about all my friends! You don't like any of them!" Cartman was watching with anticipation, waiting for one of them to strike. Gary was worried and clung onto Stan to try and prevent him from fighting. "you don't even put time into me anymore! you never hang out! How are you going to call yourself my best friend when you don't hang out with me anymore?!"

And with one swift motion, Kyle punched Stan. The hit was hard enough to send him flying back onto Gary who held him up. Cartman cheered and Kyle gasped."Oh. Oh, fuck- I didn't mean to... Shit dude im sorry." Kyle reached for Stan, Gary motioning for him to stop.

"Gary, we're leaving," Stan said. "We're walking home, come on," Stan said while starting to walk away.

Gary didn't have much of a choice as Stan grabbed his wrists and dragged him along, leaving Kyle and Cartman alone.

Chapter Text

Together they walked down the crunchy snow-covered sidewalks. Stan's nose was bleeding, leaving a trail of blood where ever he walked. Gary was scared to speak. He had only reunited with the boy for a day, and drama was already starting because of him. Gary was behind him. He didn't want to walk closer, afraid Stan would get mad at him. Stan walked ahead of Gary by a few steps. His hands were in his pockets and his face was lined with a combination of tears and blood.

"Stan, Im sorry" Gary finally snapped the silence. Stan turned around to face Gary, in which Gary took a step back to avoid being hit. "That wasn't your fault, Gary. Shut the fuck up," Stan's vulgar language was filled with vinegar. Gary couldn't tell if Stan was mad at him or not. Gary sulked behind Stan once more. Stan suddenly stopped, and when he stopped so did Gary. Gary waited to see if he was going to say anything. "Are you going to catch up? Or just stand there?" Gary heard Stan's words and started walking beside Stan.

"Im sorry dude, I don't know why he did that." Stan sniffled. "No, no, it's okay! I'm not upset or anything." Gary spoke back sincerely. Gary then heard the older boy sniffle a couple of times. Gary turned to see Stan crying. "Oh no, it's okay." Gary stopped Stan and hugged him. Stan sloppily hugged back."He wasn't mad at-- he wasn't mad at me earlier.." Stan choked up, tightening the hug around Gary. Gary didn't mind this though, he knew Stan needed it. Stan finally released and backed up. Gary looked him down, he had blood streaming down his nose and shirt.

"Oh Stan, Im so sorry this happened to you. You've got blood all on your shirt..." Gary cooed. Stan looked at his shirt. "Its... It's fine. I'll just wash it when I get home." Gary shook his head. "Yeah that's good, but you can't be walking around in a bloody jacket like that, here take it off," Stan's face flushed. "Wha--?" Stan stuttered. "I have an idea, take off your jacket." Stan's eyes widened but did as he was told. Stan handed the jacket to Gary, in which Gary took off his jacket and handed it to Stan. Stan's heart flew. "Aw, that's nice of you... but you don't have to it's fine I promise," Stan giggled to himself. Gary tossed his jacket over the boy's shoulder and put Stans in his bag. "What are you...?" Stan asked, puzzled. Gary stood up while Stan put on the jacket. "See? My mom can get any stain out, I'll ask her to properly wash this!" Gary smiled as he shook Stan's hand in his. Stan awkwardly smiled back, knowing that if he brought it home it would be shoved in a drawer and never seen again. "Alright, no you need to be fixed up." Stan's eyes squinted, with tears still streaming down. The mix of dried and fresh blood was staining his face and left a strong taste in his mouth.

Stan and Gary walked to Stan's house, stopping in front. "My mom and dad aren't home... just-- don't mess with anything? Ok?" Gary nodded as Stan walked up the driveway. Gary tried not to point out the fact Stan lived on a farm... a weed farm at that. Stan already seemed tense about bringing Gary to his house, so he just decided to stay quiet and follow Stan. Stan opened the door and welcomed Gary in. Stan quickly ran upstairs, "Let me pick up my room a little-- it's not very clean." Gary stayed downstairs and looked around. There were dozens of paintings hung up on the wall, the same with family photos. There were small embellishments of weed pretty much everywhere. Gary, of course, didn't want to touch any of it. It was pretty immoral to smoke, especially to smoke weed. "Gary!" Stan called from upstairs. Hearing Stan calls his name, he calmly walked upstairs and found Stan's room. Gary knocked twice before opening the door slightly. "I called you in here, you don't have to knock," Stan rolled his eyes. Gary opened the door and walked in. "Sorry! just wanted to make sure that you wanted me in here" Stan groaned and Gary sat on Stan's bed. "Stop being so nice, it kills me," Gary chuckled at Stan's jab at him.

"What's killing you is that nose of yours! Come here." Gary opened his arms and called to Stan, who slowly made his way over. Gary pulled a napkin out of a pocket in his bag. Gary wiped the blood from stans nose and chin. Stan smiled softly, trying not to stare into Gary's eyes. "So, why do you like... not hate me? I denounced your religion in front of you and your family." Gary let out a small sigh and grabbed another napkin, still swiping the blood away. "I don't believe that hate will get us anywhere. When I went home that day, I thought hard about what you said. Yes, the religion may not make sense, but you were just confused and didn't understand! and that is understandable since you're Catholic and most Catholic churches hate Mormons. but even so, I feel like making friends despite differences helps heal that hate"

"What the fuck?" Stan giggled. Gary's rant didn't make sense. Stan hates Cartman, but that's because he's an asshole. Stan was an asshole to Gary so why doesn't he hate him? Gary giggled as well. Even if Stan didn't understand, Gary was just happy that they were still friends. "It's ok, Stan. Just know I'm happy to be here with you!" Gary chimed. Stan's nose was no longer bleeding, though his face still hurt from where Kyle punched him. He ran his hand across his nose and cheek, the skin sore and soft. "Still kinda hurts," Stan complained. Gary pitied the poor boy. Why would his friend hit him? That's when Stan noticed that some of his blood had gotten on Gary's hand.

"Oh fuck, it got on your hand," Stan pointed out, laughing a bit. Gary looked down and giggled, "It's fine, it's not like you did it on purpose" Stan and Gary laughed while he washed his hands. Once Gary finished he sat down on the side of the bed with Stan. Stan looked up at the ceiling. "You can stay for dinner if you'd like..." He suggested. Gary's head tilted towards Stan and he smiled. "Of course! let me ask my parents." Gary grabbed his phone out of his backpack on the floor. While Gary texted his parents, so did Stan. He wanted to know where they went. Without Shelly living there anymore, it gets lonely sometimes. His phone buzzed in which his parents responded that they were out on a date night and would be back the next morning. Stan sighed and looked up at Gary. he didn't want to be alone, but also knew Gary's parents could be strict and didn't want to pressure him. Gary turned to Stan, his face lit up with joy. "They said I could stay!" relief washed over Stan's body, happy to just have somebody with him.

"If you don't want to stay you don't have to," Stan spoke up. Gary turned his head in confusion. "What do you mean?" Stan shrugged. "I mean if you don't want to stay you don't have to," Stan huffed out. Gary made the look of someone who was just highly offended. "Why would I not want to" Stan once again looked up to avoid eye contact. "Well, I don't know. I feel like most of my friends don't want to hang out so, I-- I don't know," Stan sniffled. Gary sat back down on the bed, this time laying down fully. "Of course, I want to stay! You're a great guy! what's not to like about you?" Gary asked, puzzled. Stan laid down next to him, "Well--" "I wasn't finished. You have a great sense of humor, and a wonderful personality and you are very kind!" Gary interrupted. Stan sat up, "What?" Gary stayed laying down, smiling at Stan.

Stan's heart rushed, "I mean thank you. That's-- really kind of you actually," Stan laughed a bit mid-sentence, too embarrassed to finish his sentence whole. The room fell with silence, only intruded by Stan's sniffling.

"I'll go make dinner, so... you can come down there if you'd like," Stan finally spoke. Gary smiled and nodded, getting up from his spot on the bed. "yeah I'll come down!" Gary piped. Stan walked down the stairs and to the messy kitchen, where he turned on the fryer and got to work. "Im just going to make some fried chicken, that alright with you," Stan asked, unsure if Gary was even allowed to eat fried chicken. Gary nodded, "Yeah of course!" Stan put the chicken in and sat down with Gary on the island stools. Gary scooted closer to Stan in the stools, now inches away from each other, "So, you have a good day at school?" Gary asked. "Yeah I mean it was fine, kinda boring," Stan replied.

"Did you hear about Kyle's new boyfriend?" Stan asked, knowing Gary wouldn't. "No, I didn't! congrats to him!" Stan shot Gary a confused look. "I thought Mormons couldn't... You know-- support?" Gary tucked his head between his shoulders. "Ah well, like I said earlier; I don't believe hate will get us anywhere. So hating on something that doesn't harm people is a waste of time!" Stan turned solemnly to face the fryer. "So... You do support?" Stan asked confused. Gary smiled, "Of course! Why do you ask?" Stan's eyes shot wide open. "Well-- You know-- Im bi so." Gary's eyes darted to meet Stans. "Oh, I didn't know that! don't worry, I fully support you!" Stan smiled at the blonde, his eyes not focused on his, but rather on his hands. Gary's hands were fidgeting quite a lot as if he was nervous or scared. "You ok?" Stan asked. Gary glanced down at his hands now, not looking up.

"Honestly, Im questioning right now," Gary replied, causing Stan to look back at him with surprise. "Really?" "Yeah, I have been for a while now." Stan looked down. "Well... I support you too, Gary," Gary smiled, the light shining down on his crystal blue eyes. Both of them sat in another awkward silence, unsure of what to say. Finally, the fryer dinged, breaking the quiet atmosphere.

"Foods ready," Stan cheered. Gary straightened up happily, ready to eat. Stan brought the plate over and sat it down in front of the two of them. "Here!" Gary looked up at Stan with a stare that said ´thank you´ and grabbed some food off the plate. Before he could eat, there was a loud knock at the door. "Strange, I thought my parents weren't coming back soon..." Stan questioned. Gary turned to face the front door as Stan walked over and opened it.

"Hi, Stan," Kyle said softly. Stan looked at him with disgust, while Gary got up after hearing his voice. "Im sorry, Stan, about everything." Stan said nothing, "I understand if you're mad at me, but I really am sorry. No excuses, no bullshit, nothing. Im sorry," Kyle continued. Gary popped his head out to look at Kyle, in which Kyle shot him a dark glare. "You have a lot of fucking nerve to show up here," Stan finally spoke. "I know," Kyle huffed, "I knew I needed to apologize in person," Stan looked back at Gary, who was playing with his hair nervously.

"Ok, well, you apologized. You can leave now," Stan begin shutting the door, but Kyle stopped it with his shoe. "Wait! Stan. May I come in?" Stan looked as though he saw a ghost. "You were right about me not being here and hanging out a lot. I want to fix that," Kyle continued. Stan looked back at Gary once more before opening the door and letting him in. Gary awkwardly waved hi, unsure if he should speak or not. Kyle walked in and sat down where Gary was previously sitting. Kyle bit his bottom lip and turned to face Stan, who was still holding the door open while staring at him, "So, what have you guys been up to?" Kyle asked quickly. Stan shut the door and walked over to sit down next to him. "Uhm... eating? I dont-- know?" Stan shrugged. Kyle took a deep breath and continued talking, "You want to come over to my place? Uhm... David is coming over soon and, I don't know, I thought you would like to meet him?" Kyle suggested. Stan looked at Gary and Gary smiled and nodded, "Yeah sure, ill come." Kyle smiled softly and his agreement and made his way over to the door and opened it. Stan walked out and Gary stayed still, "Wait, Kyle," Stan stopped, "What, Stan?"

"Can Gary come? His parents already think he's staying the night, so it is pointless to just--" Kyle glanced over at Gary, who was awkwardly hiding behind Stan as if he was a deer who couldn't fend for himself. Kyle shrugged, "I don't see why not," Gary smiled at Stan who motioned at him to follow.

The trio walked down the paved driveway to Kyle's car. The sky was now a deep, dark blue as the sun faded into the distance; and the moon rose above. Stan yawned and hopped into the backseat of the car, Gary doing the same. Kyle sat down in the driver's seat and started the engine. Stan yawned once more and stretched to get comfortable. It was only seven in the afternoon, but because Stan's harsh and unorganized sleep schedule, he was practically falling asleep, "Hey, Gary?" Kyle spoke softly, "Yes?"

"You're not like-- Homophobic or anything right?" Gary shook his head, "No of course not! Im actually uh... Yeah no Im not," Gary decided not to reveal his sinful secret to Kyle. His whole family supported everyone, but they were unsure if it was okay for one of them to be gay. Kyle's face remained neutral, but his eyes released the tension and anxiety they held. Stan laid back and closed his eyes, "Are you tired, Stan?" Gary asked, while Stan sleepily nodded. Gary giggled and Kyle started driving.

"So... You enjoying South Park, Gary?" Kyle asked. Gary smiled at the initiation of the conversation, "Yeah! Im enjoying it a lot. A nice and small town," "Good, It is pretty quiet out here," "Just what I needed."

Stan leaned onto Gary's shoulder, wrapping his arms around Gary's arm. Gary looked at him in surprise, but then sat down and smiled, running his hands through the boy's black hair. It was soft as if he recently showered. Kyle looked back at the two through the rearview mirror and laughed. "Please don't make out in my car... it's new," Gary's face turned pink with embarrassment, "Wha-- What?! No! That's not what's happening!" Gary stuttered as Kyle giggled at his joke, "It was a joke, don't worry," Gary shook his head, with his fingers on the bridge of his nose. In response to his movement, Stan tightened his grip around his arm. Gary moved back to his original spot so it was more comfortable for both of them.

The three finally arrived at Kyle's house, the car coming to a quick stop, "Stan, we're here," Gary said softly. He didn't budge, "C'mon, we have to get out," Stan finally sat up, rubbing the sleep off of his eyes. Gary's shoulder and arm were red from where Stan had laid and grabbed, but he didn't mind.

"Alright, David beat us here somehow so-- Just get ready to meet him. They're super kind I promise," Kyle started as they all walked towards the door. Kyle opened the door and let them walk in. Suddenly, Kyle's phone rang causing him to stop before walking in,"Ugh, be right back. I need to answer this," Kyle shut the door and left Gary and Stan alone.

Chapter Text

The front door slammed shut and Gary hid again behind Stan. Stan groggily walked through the house, already knowing where everything was, while Gary stumbled around as if lost. Stan opened the fridge and grabbed a soda from the door. Gary, too, was thirsty but didn't say anything because the tension was already high.

"Hello?" A voice called from upstairs, "Kyle, sweetheart is that you?" A tan, dark-haired boy walked down the stairs, "Oh sorry, Kyle is outside taking a phone call right now. He invited us over so we could meet you,"

"Oh I see, you're Stan, right?" Stan nodded and smiled. The dark-haired boy then turned to Gary, "And you're... Tweek?" He said with uncertainty, "Actually, that's Gary." Stan answered for him. Gary smiled softly, "Oh, Kyle hadn't told me about you, sorry," Stan sucked air in through his teeth, "Him and Kyle aren't exactly... friends", Stan said awkwardly. David shrugged as if he could relate, "I understand, my boyfriend can be a bit hot-headed at times, but he is sweet", David shook both of their hands as a welcome, then started heading back upstairs. "Let me grab my phone real quick, I will be back in a second."

As David walked back upstairs, Kyle walked in the front door. "Hey sorry about that guys, wheres David?" Gary pointed up the stairs, "He said he was grabbing his phone", David finally came down and welcomed Kyle by kissing him on the cheek. Stan rolled his eyes, "Ew, get a room", "Shut up Stan... You and Gary were practically cuddling on the way over here", Kyle retorted. Gary's face turned red and so did Stan's. "NO, WE WERE NOT KYLE." Kyle and David laughed While Stan stood fuming. Gary giggled to himself as well. Stan turned to Gary in disbelief, "No way you're laughing, you're the victim in that joke!" Gary chuckled and shrugged. Stan sighed and crossed his arms. "So, what do you guys want to do?" Stan asked, "Whatever you guys want to do I guess", Stan shrugged and looked at Gary, who shrugged as well. David thought for a moment, "We have Minecraft on our Xbox...?" David suggested. Everyone agreed to play and sat down on the couch. As Kyle booted up the Xbox, Stan, and Gary looked at each other, Gary clenched his jaw and held up his controller. "Have you ever played Minecraft?" Stan chuckled. Gary shook his head, "I haven't, I've never even played on an Xbox." Gary sighed. Stan elbowed him, "I'll teach you... it's pretty fun." Gary smiled at Stan and thanked him with a nod.

A couple of hours passed by, and the boys were all tired. Kyle yawned and held David's hand, "Im tired... Are you guys ready to go to sleep?" Kyle asked. David nodded and yawned as well. "I could sleep", Stan said. All of the shouting and video games had wiped the tired off of him. Gary felt the same way, but felt bad saying no, "Same!" He piped. Kyle and David bid well for the night and headed upstairs to go to sleep. Stan grabbed a blanket from the other side of the couch and sat next to Gary, "Are you tired...?" Gary asked softly. Stan looked the other way and smiled out of the corner of his mouth, "Not-- not really." Stan brushed his hair out of his face, causing Gary to sit on his knees and fix his hair himself, "Your hair's so messy", Gary remarked. Stan huffed, "Yeah, yeah I know... You sound like my mom." Stan cupped his hands around Gary's and they stared at each other for a while, "It's kind of weird seeing you again", Stan put Gary's hands down and laid down on the couch, Gary laying down beside him as well. "What do you mean?" Gary asked, looking at Stan, "You know... it's been-- just so long since I've last seen you. But it's definitely nice to see you, you've made school more enjoyable..." Stan chuckled. When he got no response, he looked over at Gary who was smiling at him, "Im glad Stan, you're very fun to be around as well!" Stan smiled back and rested his head on his arms. Gary stared up at the ceiling, he was glad that Stan had forgiven him for storming out of his life. Gary knew that Stan was in the wrong, but forgiveness was futile to prevent. Besides, Gary knew that Stan had matured and grown up a little since their last time together, so it was--

The sound of liquid splashing around interrupted his thoughts. Gary turned to Stan, who was taking a large swig of an alcoholic beverage in a glass bottle, "Oh-- oh my-- Stan what are you drinking?" Gary sat up a little. Stan dropped the bottle from his mouth and looked at it. Silence struck the two, "Pink Whitney", Stan finally finished. Gary took the bottle from his hands and held it away from him. "You should not be drinking!-- It's like twelve A.M... and you're underage!" Stan frowned and easily reached over Gary and grabbed the bottle, "Im fine, calm your tits", Stan took another long swig from the bottle, which was now under halfway full. Gary frowned at Stan, "That doesn't help Stanley, you cannot be drinking right now", Stan finished the bottle in spite, leaving a bitter taste in his mouth. "See? I'm fine, Gary" Gary shook his head and set the now-empty bottle on the table. Gary turned to Stan and scowled, "Really?" Stan smiled sinisterly as if he just robbed a bank. "Stanley, how long have you been drinking?" Stan took note of the fact that Gary would use 'Stanley' instead of 'Stan' when he's pissed off, "Now that isn't any of your business, is it?" Stan asked sleepily. Gary sighed, "It's not healthy for you, and I want what's best for you." Gary comforted him softly. Stan was already feeling the effects of drinking that much liquor in such a short span, "What--... Whatever." Stam grunted. He then hiccuped and laid back down. Gary looked at the bottle and then laid down. Gary was facing the table, away from Stan. "You have-- nice hair." Stan hiccuped. Gary turned to face him, "try to get some sleep, Stan", Gary scolded Stan. Stan shut his eyes and gave a drunken giggle. Gary turned to face the table once more. He was too embarrassed to face Stan, he felt as if he just scolded a child for doing something they weren't supposed to. He shut his eyes and took a deep breath. As Gary was drifting to sleep, he felt warm hands grip with waist and drag him towards Stan. Stan was now wrapped around Gary. "Uh-- Stan, you awake?" Gary asked nervously. Stan mumbled, "Ye--eah..." He slightly hiccuped in the middle of his sentence.

Gary struggled to pry from Stan's grip, worried that Stan would snap out of it and get mad at him, but the older boy held tighter. Gary eventually settled down and sunk into Stan's weight. Stan's breath was hot on the back of Gary's neck, causing him to shudder a little. Being so close to Stan gave the poor blonde a chance to listen to his slow heartbeat and breaths. In a way, it comforted him into sleep. Stan moved a bit, causing Gary to move with him. The raven-haired boy held onto Gary as if he couldn't let go, "Stan...?" Gary asked from underneath him. "What," Stan said quickly. "Do-- do you want me to mo--" "No. I really don't," Stan said as if he were completely sober. Gary stayed awake for another 20 minutes, not sure if he was waiting for someone to speak to him or not. Finally, after thirty minutes, he closed his eyes and went to sleep.

However, Stan did not. He could hear Kyle and David talking upstairs, Gary's fast-paced breathing, and a dog barking somewhere. He was very attentive to his surroundings. Once Gary's breathing slowed down, Stan figured he was asleep.
"Gary?"
No response meant that the boy was sound asleep. Stan sat up and rubbed his eyes. In his drunken state, everything seemed like it was screaming at him, taunting him. Stan looked down at Gary, who was slightly shivering from the sudden cold hitting him. Stan stared at him for a little before getting up and walking over to the blanket on the ground. He picked it up and stumbled back over to the couch, sitting down and covering himself and Gary with the blanket. He stretched before wrapping his arms around Gary once more and falling asleep.

Chapter Text

"St--Stan..."

Stan's eyes shot open, it was six am. Stan rubbed his eyes and looked for who called him. His head was pounding from the amount of liquor he drank before sleeping, his head pulsing in a painful way. "Stanley..." Stan looked down to see Gary underneath him, recollecting memories before and after getting drunk. He remembered grabbing Gary to settle down and fall asleep, maybe he was making him uncomfortable, "Gary...? What do you need?" No response. Stan stretched and laid back down. Gary tossed and turned in his sleep as if he were being thrown. Stan laid down and listened to Gary, in case he woke up. He would make soft grunts and noises every now and then, Stan's curiosity would peak before climbing down due to his lack of care, "Stan..." Stan snapped his head, "What?" Nothing. Realization flooded over him after he thought about it for a second. Gary was sleep-talking about him. Stan smiled softly and laid back down, watching Gary while wondering what he was dreaming about. Stan's smile turned to a curious head tilt once Gary started groaning once more. Was he having a nightmare? Stan sat up again, ready to wake him up, "Stan--Stanley..." He groaned. Stan's face flushed as he finally realized what was happening. Trying not to think about it, Stan shoved himself underneath the blanket, trying to fall asleep. Stan's eyes were wide open though, now petrified and embarrassed about the situation. His face was hot and red. A million thoughts raced through Stanley's head; Do I wake him? Do I continue listening? Gary continued sleep-talking as Stan questioned everything. Finally, after what seemed to be a year of waiting, he turned around and sat over Gary, "Gary wake up." Stan shook Gary awake, unable to take the talking any longer.

"Huh... What, Stan?" Gary's eyes slightly opened, as he yawned, "What-. What time is it, Stan?" Stan looked down, "Like six am, dude what the fuck were you dreaming about?" Stan got straight to the point. Gary's facial expression remained neutral as if this had happened before, "I don't entirely remember, you were in it though", Stan shook his head, "Oh fuck." Stan hissed out slowly. Gary sat up as the blanket fell off of him, "Why... What happened?" Stan shot Gary a crazed look. Stan felt his face heat up again. Gary wiped his eyes and smiled at Stan, causing him to shudder. How could he have such a bizarre dream and not even care?! "Stanley, what's wrong?" Stan backed up against the couch, "Dont-- Dont call me that", Stan panted, "Why? That is your full name, no?" Stan shook his head, "Besides, I think it sounds nice", Gary yawned again. "What's wrong though? You're acting as if you've just seen a ghost", Gary giggled.

"Hah-- nothing." Stan crossed his arms. Gary tilted his head and put his hand on Stan's thigh. Stan turned away, still embarrassed, "Just, go back to sleep, Gary", Gary hesitated, "What's wrong?" Stan grabbed Gary's hands, placing him right in front of him. Gary's mouth opened to say something, but all that escaped was a gasp of shock. When the lights suddenly flickered on, the two looked up to see Kyle standing at the stairwell shocked, "What-- what the fuck is happening right now" He stuttered. Gary got up and stumbled back slightly, Stan stood up as well. Stan turned to the clock, reading 6:48 am, "What are you doing up?" Stan asked in shock, "I always get up early, I have to go to work..." Kyle spoke with an anxious tone. Gary rubbed his head, "Can I get a drink, please?" Kyle pointed to a cabinet and walked over to Stan. He sat down and stretched, "You guys can see yourselves out once I leave", Kyle said stubbornly. Stan turned his head in confusion, "You know how I feel about you drinking, Stan", Stan's heart ached once he remembered the empty bottle on the table, "Yeah I know... I--" Gary sat a hand on Stan's shoulder to comfort him. "Especially at my place, Im sure David wouldn't like to walk downstairs to his boyfriend's best friend having a massive hangover", Stan frowned. There wasn't really a great way to get home, they had driven Kyle's car over and had no other transportation. Stan's hand reached up and grabbed Gary's, "Can you drive us home, please? We have... Like... No other way to get home", Stan pleaded. Kyle sat up, grabbed the empty bottle, and shoved it into Stan's hands.

"Fine, just... Come on", Kyle agreed. Stan started walking with Gary remaining still, confused after just waking up. Kyle grabbed Gary by the sweatshirt and dragged him along, "Sorry", Gary apologized as he was pushed in front of Kyle and out the front door.

The car ride back was awfully silent, only the sound of rubble underneath the tire rang out occasionally. Stan looked at Gary, his head still ringing in pain. Gary frowned and shrugged, Stan doing the same to him. He knew Kyle had the right to be mad, but to wake up at six am and force them out seemed a little over the top. Especially with how he grabbed and pushed Gary, something about how Kyle handled Gary made Stan pissed off. Gary IS his friend, but they've only been friends for 2 days... Those last two days have been the best two days Stan Marsh had experienced in so long though, he didn't feel as alone as he did before. Stan dwelled on the happy thoughts for a while before his mind forced him to come back to the present. The car came to a slow stop in front of Stan's house.

"Do you need a ride home, Gary? I can take you", Stan shot Gary a panicked look. He didn't want Gary to leave yet, "You-- you don't have to Gary", Stan said softly. Gary looked at Kyle and then back at Stan, "I'll stay here for a while longer, Kyle, thank you for the offer though!" Gary thanked him as he was getting out of the car, Stan doing the same. Kyle didn't take his eyes off of the steering wheel, not looking back when Gary bid adieu to him. Stan stayed silent, embarrassed, and upset over this whole morning, "See you at school, Stan", Kyle said before shutting his window and driving off. Stan looked at Gary, rubbing the back of his head with his head, "Let's uh... Go inside. It's cold out here", Stan chuckled. Gary yawned again, nodding and following Stan. He stepped inside the front door, shaking the snow off of his boots and wiping his feet, "Are you still tired?" Stan asked, "Honestly yeah, sorry", Gary told him apologetically. Stan smiled softly and led him upstairs, "You can sleep in my bed, I'll sleep on the couch", Gary turned back around, stopping in his tracks, "What? No, I can't have you sleep on the couch in your own home, I can sleep on the couch", Gary walked back and sat down on the furniture, Stan walked up to him and grabbed his shoulders, "Look, Gary. I know you're trying to be nice, but it's fucking killing me, you're killing me, Gary." Stan hissed out with a hint of sarcasm in his voice. Gary gasped at his choice of bad words, then looked down and chuckled, "You'll be fine, Stanley", Gary spoke.

Stan suddenly remembered how Gary called him Stanley during his... Episode... And his face got heated. Stan sat next to Gary and held his face in his hands, "Gary, can I ask you something?" Stan mumbled. Gary smiled and stretched, "Of course!" "What uh... What were you dreaming about this morning?..." Gary's face suddenly hit him with realization and his eyes widened, "I... I actually don't remember-- You were in... In it though", Gary looked away and bit his bottom lip. Stan turned with him, eyes darting over the place; too flushed to speak. Gary frowned and scowled, upset with himself for lying. He did remember what he dreamt about, he remembered it clearly. Stan got up and headed upstairs, "Let's just go to sleep for now" Stan let out a long and heavy breath. Gary sat for a moment, thinking things over, before getting up and following him. Stan opened the door for him, letting him sit down and get comfortable, "Im going to go to the bathroom real quick", Stan told him, before darting away. Stan rushed downstairs and sat down at the island chairs. He held his head in his hands once again. Stan shook his head and bounced his leg nervously. He couldn't process how his friend could have possibly had a... lucid dream about him and go about it so nonchalantly. It didn't make him uncomfortable, nor did it upset him, but rather made him flushed and embarrassed. When Wendy broke up with his freshman year, he knew he would never fall in love again. Wendy went off with some other dude, and Stan's heart practically broke. He dwelled on the memories of him throwing up every time Wendy would talk to him, making him so nervous and embarrassed. Stan felt a tear run down his cheek. He used his sweater sleeve to wipe it away, before remembering that it wasn't his sweater but rather Gary's. Stan wiped it away with the palm of his hand before admiring the nice teal color of the sweater. He looked at every tiny detail, a string was loose on the seams, or there was a tiny bit of dirt on the bottom of the stomach area. Stan caught himself smiling at the memory of Gary giving his sweater to him and tending to him after being hit by his "best friend". Stan shook his head and sunk deeper into his arms. Stan knew he missed Gary when he left, he felt alone; nobody in his friend group could fill that gap. Gary had always been nice to him, even after he denounced his religion... in front of his whole family... and told him he'd be happier with him dead...

"God, why am I such an asshole?" Stan leaned back in his seat. What if Gary did hate him, and was just putting up this whole friend parade to embarrass him? Stan shook his head, Gary would never. Gary is the kindest soul Stan had ever met. What is there to even hate about Gary? Gary had been there for him no matter what. He had even kept calm while he was drunk last night. Stan then remembered last night. He had grabbed Gary and slept with him the whole night. Stan knew he did that on purpose, he wanted an excuse to be close. He was cold and had just chugged a bottle of liquor, he wanted comfort. And Gary provided it. He thought about how warm he was, how he could feel his heart beating and his breathing. Stan's stomach started stirring. He sat up and ran to the toilet, throwing up violently. He coughed a little, letting himself get all of it out. Once Stan finished and wiped his mouth with a paper towel, he flushed the toilet and sat against the wall.

"What the fuck is happening?"

Although he asked, he knew what was happening. He knew what that feeling in his stomach was. He was very familiar with throwing up like this. Stan stood up and walked himself up the stairs again, each step heavy with sorrow and embarrassment. He knew Gary couldn't feel the same. It was practically impossible. Stan quietly opened the bedroom door. To no surprise, Gary was fast asleep. He sat down next to him, letting himself stretch and cozy down next to the blonde. He was trying to be as quiet as possible, not wanting to wake him. He rubbed his eyes and yawned. Stan reached for a large bottle on the desktop, taking a large swig and setting it back down. Stan laid down and turned to face Gary. He studied his face and his hair. The blonde hair that Gary takes the utmost amazing care of his hair. Stan knew that Gary kept his hair pristine and clean. Stan shook his head and blinked rapidly, catching himself practically dreaming about him. Stan sighed and turned on his back and stared at his ceiling.

"Stanley."

"Gary?"

"Go to bed. It's late."

"You're right. Good night, Gary."

"Good night, Stanley."

Chapter Text

Gary woke up with a ringing in his ears. Last night was a blur for him, all he could remember was the gentle kindness Stan had given him and telling the raven-haired boy to sleep. Gary sat up quickly, remembering Stan had fallen asleep next to him. "Stan?" Gary called out. Stan did not respond, nor was he even in the room. Gary stretched his limbs and stood up to go find him. "Stan?" He called out. As he was walking out of the room, he bumped into an older woman, "Oh my goodness! I'm so sorry!" Gary quickly apologized to her, picking up the laundry she dropped. The woman bent over to pick some of the clothes up as well, "It's alright! You only startled me is all! Stanley hadn't told me he brought a friend over", The woman replied. Gary held shook her hands and tilted his head in kindness, "Oh, I assumed he asked you, I'm sorry Mrs...?" "Sharon Marsh, Mrs. Marsh is fine!" "I'm sorry Mrs. Marsh! I'm Gary", Sharon's eyes adjusted and she looked up and down in surprise, "Gary? As in the Harrisons' kid Gary?" Gary nodded and handed the last piece of dropped clothing to her, "I thought you and Stan weren't friends anymore?" Gary looked at his feet and swung his arms.

"That was a while ago, we made up at school the other day", Gary's head suddenly perked up, "Oh shoot we have school today! I completely forgot to go home and grab my things!" Sharon looked back in shock, "Well Stan already left, did he not wake you up?" Gary shook his head. Why was he such a moron? He didn't set an alarm, nor did he go home and check in with his family! Stupid!

"Thank you, Mrs. Marsh, but I need to head home now, I don't have my bag on me", Gary started walking down the stairs, eyes shut in embarrassment. What a way to meet his mom. Upon arrive the bottom of the stairs, Gary looked up to see his backpack sitting on the stool of the counter. Gary approached it and spun it around. On the back of the bag hanging on by tape was a note reading, 'Sorry for not waking you up, but your dad stopped by and dropped this off so yeah you're welcome.' "Welcome for what? Ditching me?" Gary scoffed, talking to himself. Gary looked around the house, no one else was there. He grabbed the bag and bolted out the door, trying to not be any later than he already was.

As he approached the school grounds, he looked at his watch which read 12:38 pm, which meant it was now the fourth period. Gary rushed inside and head down the halls to his biology class. As he knocked on the door he ran his fingers through his hair, noticing how messy it was. He usually tries to keep it as neat as possible, but I guess today was his day off of that. The door opened, and Gary took his seat, "Mr. Harrison? Why are you late?", Mr. Miller asked him. Gary put his elbows on the desks and shrugged, "I woke up late is all", The teacher rolled his eyes, "Alright that's fine, just try not to let it happen again, please", Gary nodded and took out his journal and pencil when he was poked in the side.

"Gary, what happened? You look like you just got hit by a bus...", His classmate Bebe whispered, "As I said, I just woke up late", Bebe giggled to herself, "THE Gary Harrison? Late to class? I doubt that, what were you doing last night?" Gary looked at his desk, remembering all of the things that happened, "I was over at a friend's house okay? For some reason, he didn't wake me up so I slept in. I only remembered when I bumped into his mom in the hallway and it got mentioned", Bebe leaned in, "Ooh... Whose house was it?" "Stan's. Stan Marsh's", Gary whispered back. Bebe turned to him, now not even trying to hide their conversation, "Oh the kid that used to date, Wendy? What an asshole he is--" "I don't think that's true, he's a nice kid... He's just figuring some things out" "Oh, really?", Bebe smiled at him, "Y'know, he and my girlfriend used to hang out a little back in fourth grade", Bebe looked up as if looking at old memories. Gary turned his body towards her too, "Oh? Who's your girlfriend? I don't think I've met her", Gary smiled softly at her. Bebe looked back down and put her hands on her legs, "Henrietta Biggles, she's the hottest girl in the whole school" Bebe sighed out of romance. Gary shook his head, "Oh, I don't know her, sorry. She sounds lovely though!" Gary chimed. Bebe nodded, "Fuck yeah she is."

The bell pierced through the classes and the once-empty hallways started filling up with kids trying to find their next class. Bebe sat up and started packing her things, "You know... You aren't as bad as I thought you would be," Bebe smiled. Gary winced at the backhanded compliment, but still smiled, "Thank you, Bebe!" "See ya, Harrison", In a flash she was out the door, waving her goodbyes. Gary looked down the continue packing his things, only to be interrupted by another kid pushing his bag off the seat, "Move it gay-boy, this is my seat", The voice practically yelled. As Gary looked up, so did the other boy, "Oh shit, if it isn't Stan's 'best friend'! How'd your date last night go?" Gary picked up the books that spilled out of his bag, "Hi, Eric. Nice to see you too. And it wasn't a date! I was just comforting him", Eric plopped down in his seat and looked down at the blonde boy.

"So, a date?", Gary scoffed and recomposed himself, "How did you even know I slept over?", Eric shrugged and shoved a cookie into his mouth, "Kyle told me, dumbass", Gary frowned at the name, though he was probably smarter than Eric anyways, "Forget it, I need to get going", Gary finally finished, walking out the door, "Tell your boyfriend I said hi!", Eric screamed out as Gary left. Gary rolled his eyes and walked faster.

A few hours passed, and it was 5 minutes until release. Gary had not seen Stan all day, not even at lunch. Gary has become worried that he either scared him away, or he's just avoiding him, although that wasn't a very Stan thing to do. Stan was a bit of a train wreck, but he's not a jerk, he wouldn't abandon his friend. A slight tap on the shoulder dragged Gary out of his thoughts. He turned around to see who was trying to get his attention. Behind him sat a kid who was wearing a bedraggled orange windbreaker with dirty blonde hair, "Hey, Gary, remember me?" The blonde whispered. Gary shook his head but was interrupted before he could speak, "Didn't expect you to. I'm Kenny, I was one of Stan's best friends back in fourth grade. I knew you a little, but not by much", Kenny finished. Gary smiled warmly, "It's nice to remeet you, Kenny!" He giggled under his breath. Kenny put his legs up on the desk and motioned for Gary to come closer. The bell rang and everyone ran out of the class, though Kenny and Gary stayed behind, "So, how was Stan's house?", Kenny asked. Gary tilted his head in his infamous manner and supported himself on Kenny's desk, "How'd you know about that?" He asked. Kenny shrugged, "Stan told me", Gary turned his head around as if he might be in the same room, "What--? When?", Kenny rolled his eyes, "You ask a lot of questions, it was during lunch today", Kenny finished, grabbing his bag and walking over to Gary, "Follow me", Kenny smiled as he grabbed Gary's shoulder. They walked out the door together, Kenny looking down at Gary while he texted his parents.

"You wanna hang out at my place later today?", Gary looked up and sucked air through his teeth, "Uhm, I don't know--" "Awh come on! It'll be fun! I'll invite some other people over. And get this, I live alone so no one will bother us. Gary took a deep breath, It sounded like a party. If he was ever caught at a party his parents would throw him on a steak and feed him to wolves. Kenny wrapped his arm around Gary, stopping the both of them, "Look man, I'll invite your friends too! Who are some of your friends?", Kenny smiled. Gary fiddled with his thumbs, "Uhm... Just Stan I guess", Kenny shot him a confused look, "And me, of course", Kenny grinned widely, "So, is that a yes?", Gary looked down at his phone and then back at Kenny.

"It couldn't hurt--" "That's the spirit!", Kenny shouted, fist-bumping the air. Gary chuckled at his excitement and covered his mouth with his hands, "Wait for me in the parking lot, I need to piss real quick", Kenny told Gary, shoving him in front of him. Gary nodded and walked towards the front door. Kenny waited until he was out of sight before walking into the bathroom and was greeted by a pacing Stan. When Kenny walked in, Stan perked up and ran over to him, "Kenny! Did you do it?", Stan shook the taller boy's arm frantically. Stan grabbed his hat and pulled it further down his head, "Relax lover boy, I did it. He's coming. Hah, I made him come", Kenny chuckled at his joke. Stan stopped in his tracks and shot Kenny an exasperated glare, "Alright Alright! You can do that yourself!", Kenny punched Stan's arm, then reached up and disassembled the vape detector above the two, "Why couldn't you just do it yourself? If my neighbors call the police on us we're fucked."

"Well-- I skipped all of my classes to avoid him. I'm so scared to confront him, or even talk to him!", Kenny scoffed and took a hit of a hidden vape in his dirty pocket, "I gotta go, Garys waiting for me", Stan gave Kenny a warning stare, "I'll meet you at my place, right?", Kenny glared at him, causing Stan to sigh and nod, "Yeah. You'll see me", Stan finally finished. Kenny clicked his tongue and shoved his vape back into his pocket, "See you there, lover boy!", Kenny waved as he exited the bathroom. Stan sighed, Kenny was right; he was being a bit of a pussy. Stan walked into a stall and closed the door, sitting down on the toilet. He opened his bag and pulled out the familiar blue sweater. He admired it for a second, before burying his face into the fabric. It smelt like dryer sheets and shampoo, but among those; it smelt of lavender. Stan appreciated the scent for a while, not wanting to leave the stall. His phone buzzed, causing him to set the sweater down and check his phone.

A message from Kenny, "I got him in my backseat, on my way to my house", Stan gave a breath of relief. He left the stall and began his way home.

In Kenny's backseat, Gary sat nervously. He told his parents that he would be at Stans again, he lied to his parents for the first time. He was nervous about this whole operation, but Kenny has been the nicest to him anybody has been for the past 3 years (besides Stanley), "So, Gary Harrison, how's your day been?", Gary looked up at Kenny, who was definitely going far past the speed limit, "Pretty good! I couldn't find Stanley though", Kenny looked at Gary through the rearview mirror, "Stanley?", Kenny asked. Gary nodded, "It's his full name... I think it's cute!", Gary articulated. Kenny chuckled to himself, "Oh my god-- Don't let him know that's how you feel about his name", He laughed. Gary tilted his head, "Wha--?", He started before being interrupted by Kenny's violent stop in front of his house. Kenny got out of the car first, "Ah leave your bag in there, you can get it later", Kenny informed him.

As he stepped out of the car, he watched Kennt unlock his house and open the door wide open for him. It was a standard house, not messy, nor clean. Gary looked around as Kenny shut the door behind him, "Hopefully people start coming soon", Kenny prayed. Gary nodded, "It's alright if it takes a while", Gary slumped down on the chair in the living room, "Nice furniture!" He complimented. It didn't take long before Kenny swept Gary off his feet and brought him to his room, "Look! I have an actual room now! I used to be dirt fucking poor holy shit", Kenny said, kind of taken aback by his own words. Gary felt the soft blankets and mattress, "Wow, these are actually really nice", Kennt shrugged, "Yeah of course! You can't screw on a bad mattress!", Gary removed his hand from the bed in a second, "That was a joke", Kenny cleared the air.

Right as the two sat down, a knock on the door broke the silence once more, "Someone is here!" Gary chimed. Kenny opened the door and outside was no other than Eric Cartman, "Holy shit! You invited Gary?", Cartman bellowed. Kenny shrugged, "I believe I did", Cartman punched Kenny's arm and pushed Gary out of the way. After Cartman, Kyle walked in. Kyle eyed Gary closely, "Hi, Gary", Gary smiled and waved, "Hello, Kyle!", Kyle shoved past Gary and followed Cartman to the kitchen. Kenny walked up to Gary's side as he rubbed his elbow from where he was hit, "Whoa, the fuck did you do to them?", Kenny asked. Gary raised his shoulders and looked at him, "Kyle and Stanley got in a fight... And I just so happened to be there when it happened", Kenny pushed Gary to sit on the chair, "But what does that have to do", Gary looked at the ceiling, "Well-- Stan walked off with me and so I'm assuming that Kyle is a little...", Gary walked around to make sure no one else could hear.

"Jealous", Gary finished. Kenny nodded, "Yeah probably. You know, Stan-- Or should I say, Stanley, should be heading over here soon", Gary twinkled at those words. Kenny smiled and cracked open a coke from the table in front of him, "You have any games you'd like to play tonight?" Kenny asked him. Gary thought about all the games he plays with his family but then stopped. No one wants to play the Game of Life at a party.

"Ah... No sorry", Gary said apologetically. Kenny gave a half-assed shrug and pulled out a lighter, "It doesn't really matter, I'll just pick", Kenny checked his phone as he lit a cigarette. Gary laid back in the chair, "Hey, Kenny?", Kyle's voice broke the silence. Kenny looked up, "Can I get a coke from the fridge as well?", He asked politely. Kenny nodded and looked at Gary, "You want one too?", Kenny asked, "I actually do!", Gary grinned. He got up and followed Kyle into the kitchen, "Hey... Uh... Where is the fridge--" Gary was cut off mid-sentence by a loud knock on the door. Forgetting everything he was doing, Gary ran over to the door and waited to see who it was. When Kenny opened the door, there were at least eighteen people waiting outside, "Hey, Kenny!", They all yelled. Gary was swarmed with people all over. Someone had brought a Bluetooth speaker and started playing music, "It sure is loud...", Gary stated.

When Gary turned back Kenny was gone. Gary shrugged it off and began looking for Stan. Once he neared the hallway, he stopped for a moment. He watched everyone dance and drink their youth away. "You fucker!", a voice yelled out before he was suddenly tackled into the hallway bathroom and held up against the wall by the collar of his shirt. His back hit the cold and hard granite. Gary looked up to see Kyle holding him up. For the boy's size, he was very strong.

"Do you just enjoy ruining friendships? Is that what you do for fun? Because let me tell you Gary fucking Harrison, you're not ruining this one!" Kyle spat on him, only letting him go to lock the bathroom door. The air finally came back to the blonde's poor lungs as he gasped, "What-- What are you talking about--?", Gary stuttered. Kyle snapped back, "Stan hasn't drunk in months, and the one time your dumbass comes over he's drinking again. What the fuck did you tell him?!", Kyle yelled, his voice covered by the music for everyone in the other room. Gary shook his head and stood up on his feet "I didn't tell him anything! I swear! I didn't even encourage--", Kyle threw a fist at Gary. He hit him, causing Gary to fall back into the small bathtub, "Fucking defend yourself, Harrison!" Kyle yelled again. Gary weakly refused, his head killing him. Kyle kicked him once, then twice. Gary was trying to hold back tears, but that failed quickly.

"I hate you so fucking much, Gary", Kyle continued, "You've practically ruined our friendship. I hope you're happy, Harrison. You fucking deserve this."

Kyle slammed the door, leaving Gary bloody and crying. Gary huddled up in the corner, sobbing. He knew this was a bad idea, he should've never come here. Gary checked himself out in the mirror. His nose was running with thick red blood, his eye was dark and bruised, and his stomach was a dark shade of purple and red. Gary laid back down, sobbing once more. Why did he come? Why did Kyle hate him? He tried his best to be kind to him, and this is how he thanked him?! Tears mixed with blood ran down Gary's face, as they once did with Stanley. Oh, what he would do to have Stanley by his side once more. As he broke down and cried on the small bathroom floor. He sobbed until he could not physically make any noise at all, his eyes were stapled shut, and he ducked his head between his legs and cried some more.

The bathroom door opened slightly, "Gary?", A familiar voice called out. Gary looked up to see Stan, holding the door open as music poured in. Stan took one look at Gary and rushed to his side, "Oh my fucking god? What the fuck happened, Gary?", Gary couldn't speak, all he could do was grab onto the front of Stan's T-shirt and sob. Stan ran his fingers through Gary's messy hair as he cried out on his brown tee. "Stan--Stanley... Im so sorry--", Gary sputtered out. Stan kept running his fingers through his golden hair, "Why the fuck are you apologizing, Gary? You're okay, Gary. Everything is going to be okay", Stan's T-shirt was now covered in blood, but he didn't pay attention to that. He let Gary cry, still trying to pry information out of him, "Gary, what happened?", Stan asked. Gary gripped his T-shirt tighter, "I don't even... I don't even know he was just... Mad, and he said I'm a friendship ruiner--", Gary started sobbing once more. Stan's eyes grew sharp, and he held onto Gary tighter, "Who did this, Gary?", Stan asked. Gary wiped the tears from his eyes.

"Kyle did--", Gary didn't even get to finish before Stan was standing up to go beat the ever-loving shit out of Kyle. Before he could walk away, Gary grabbed his hand, "No-- don't fight it will only make things worse", Stan smiled at Gary's mindset, sitting back down, hugging Gary once more, "I'm so sorry, Gary. You don't deserve this", Stan rubbed the blondes back, hoping to help in some way. Gary leaned into Stan, putting all of his weight into him, "Let's get you cleaned up", Stan said, grabbing a paper towel from the sink. He wiped Gary's face as Gary giggled and hiccuped. Once he was cleaned off, Stan hugged him once more.

As Stan ran his fingers through Gary's hair, Gary shivered from the touch. Stan's hands were warm, but he loved being close to him, he loved every amount of physical contact they had, "Are you ready to go out now?", Stan asked Gary, waking him up from his trance. He stared at Stan, he noticed his stunning blue eyes and his long raven-black hair. Looking at Stan this way made Gary's face heat up. Stan did the same, he noticed his messy blonde hair, and his ocean blue eyes, everything about him was beautiful. Stan wanted to kiss him. Badly.

"Yeah... Let's-- let's go."

Chapter Text

Stan helped Gary with his shoulder, the blonde still trembling from the previous incident. Gary thanked Stan by hugging him and walking off to the side. Stan opened the door for Gary, who was hesitant to walk out, "If he tries to pull that shit again in front of me I'll kick his ass", Stan remarked. Gary smiled at his heroic words but was unsure if the fight was needed. Gary nodded and walked out the door, Stan staying close behind, "Do you want to leave?" Stan asked him. Gary waited for a moment, "Well... I told Kenny I would come so I'll stick to my words", Gary chimed.

"Hey, Stan! Hey, Gary-- Whoa... What the fuck happened you two?" Kenny appeared in front of them both. Gary grasped his shoulder and looked down, trying not to cry, "Nothing, where's Kyle?" Stan asked. Kenny shrugged, "I think he left, he looked pretty pissed off", Stan rubbed Gary's back and pat his shoulder, "So, were you guys doing in there?" Kenny raised an eyebrow and got a wide grin across his face. Stan's face heated up and he rolled his eyes, "If you guys are going to makeout... Do it in the bedroom, it's way more comfortable!" Kenny grinned. Gary covered himself with his shirt, "We are not doing that", He said quickly. Kenny moved his head along his shoulders and groaned.

"Come on, you guys are boring. You wanna play spin the bottle with everyone else?" Kenny asked excitedly. Gary and Stan looked at each other, uncertain whether this was a good idea. Finally, Gary closed his eyes and nodded. Stan turned back to Kenny, "Alright fine, who else is playing?" Stan asked. Kenny raised his head to remember, "Craig, Bebe, Clyde, Tolkien, Tweek, Henrietta, Pete, some weird ass vamp kids, Scott, and Thomas", Gary looked back at Stan, "That's a lot of people", He remarked. Stan nodded in agreement, "Alright, so where are we playing?" Kenny grabbed both of them and dragged them over to the living room.

"Finally, you guys are slow as hell. Sit down so we can play", one of the goths spoke. Gary leaned over onto Stan's shoulder, "Who is she again?", Stan felt himself blushing at the contact between the two of them, "Oh-- Uh-- Henrietta", He finally spoke out. Gary continued to lay his head on Stan's shoulder, he could hear Stan's panicked breathing, but he didn't mind, "Alright, whos going first?" Kenny asked as another blonde came over and sat next to him, "I'll go I guess", Craig spoke up. He span the large glass bottle, which landed on Clyde, "Oh fuck this game dude", He sighed as he reached over and gave Clyde a small peck on the cheek. He instantly regret it as he sat back down and wiped his mouth frantically. Clyde gagged himself as he wiped his mouth as well.

The bottle game went on for 30 minutes before everyone got bored, "Let's make this game more fun", Bebe said as she leaned on Henrietta. Everyone gave her a suspicious and curious look, "Instead of spinning the bottle, how about we play seven minutes in heaven?", She remarked. Everyone either agreed or gave a hard pass and began sitting up to walk away, "Oh come on you conformists, you don't even have to do anything in there if you don't want to!" Henrietta groaned. People began sitting down again, "I agree, that sounds a little more fun!" Kenny giggled as he raised his eyebrows at Stan, who was as red as can be, "Alright fine", Stan started. The first person to spin the bottle once more was Pete, who landed on one of the vampire kids sitting across from him, "You have got to be fucking kidding me", The dark-haired vampire groaned as he sat up alongside Pete and walked over to the closet.

"Now what?" Gary asked, who was running his fingers through Stan's hair. Kennt shrugged, "We wait!", Everyone got on their phones and started browsing websites and texting friends. Stan and Gary didn't move, they were both too comfortable and didn't want to disturb the other. Gary ran his fingers through Stan's long messy hair over and over again as if it was soothing for him. Stan didn't mind at all, he always loved when Gary showed affection through touch. Gary had made it clear to Stan that his love language was touch, he was always grabbing or holding onto Stan in some way, and sometimes he didn't even notice he was touching him until Stan pointed it out. Stan loved that, he always went crazy when Gary would hold his hand and not even notice, or when he would latch onto Stan's arm and wouldn't let go until he had to.

Once the seven minutes were up, Pete and the other kid came out, and both of them were deathly silent, "So what'd you two do?" Henrietta scoffed. Pete shook his head, "I-- I didn't mind him that much", He said as he sat down next to her again, "Alright, so if we go clockwise that means it's Stan's turn", Tolkien told everyone. Stan chuckled nervously and rubbed the back of his head. Before he went, he took a large swig of the Everclear bottle in the middle of the circle. He kept chugging until his head hurt. Finally, he reached down to grab the green bottle and span it. The bottle made circles over and over until it slowed. Stan's heartbeat increased. He did not want to go in there with anyone he didn't like especially. Stan's eyes grew wider as the bottle slowly stopped and landed on someone he honestly hoped he would get. "Gary and Stan!", everyone shouted. Kenny elbowed Stan and winked, "Arent you glad you played?", Stan shook his head in embarrassment, grabbed Gary's arm, and walked over to the closet. Stan eyed Kenny before slamming the door shut. Everyone in the circle stayed quiet, waiting for Stan and Gary to be completely gone from sight before speaking

Finally, Bebe sat up, waving money in the air, "Alright I got twenty bucks who wants to bet that they kiss?"

Stan shut the door and sat down against the closet wall, "Well we have 7 minutes to burn off, what do you wanna talk about Gary?", Stan sighed. Gary sat down against the wall and slid down next to him, "I-- I don't know", He chuckled. Gary rubbed his face with the palms of his hands, his nose and eyes still burning from earlier. Stan scooted closer to Gary, "So um... What did Kyle say to you when he-- hit you?", Stan asked awkwardly. Gary looked at his hands and then back at Stan, "He just kind of-- Yelled at me. He kept saying that I ruin friendships. And--", Stan cupped the side of Gary's face with his hand, "You don't believe that, right?", He asked. Gary shook his head, "I don't think I do", He smiled. Stan's head started hurting, and he started swaying, "Stanley? You doing alright?", Stan rubbed his mouth, which was numb from the large swigs he drank before taking off.

Stan collapsed onto Gary, who held onto him so he didn't hit his head, "Stanley, what are you doing", Stan flipped over on his back, chuckling. Gary sat him up against the wall again. Gary sighed and felt his forehead, which was warm to the touch. Gary remembered what Kyle said about Stan not drinking. Did Gary really make him do that, "Stanley, why did you--" Gary was interrupted by Stan when he grabbed the sides of his face and brought him closer. Gary now sat right next to Stan. Gary could feel his heart racing, even though he wasn't scared. Stan leaned his head onto Gary's shoulder, yawning in the process. Gary wrapped his arm around Stan before continuing his sentence. "Hey, Stanley, why do you drink--" "I love it when you call me that", Stan said abruptly. Gary turned over to Stan, who was completely unphased. Gary smiled at him, fixing the hair that fell onto his face wrong, "Oh really?", Gary hummed. Stan gave out a soft 'mhm' before taking a deep breath in and wrapping his hands around Gary's arm. Gary continued fixing the older boy's hair, "You're the only person who calls me that. Besides my mom and Dad", Stan continued.

"I thought it was stupid, to be named one thing and have everyone else call you something else. But when you call me Stanley, I feel-- happy", Gary stopped and looked at Stan, who still hadn't moved, "I love it when you call me Stanley, Gary. It kinda matches your name", Stan let out a drunken giggle. Gary put his hands back into his lap, he hummed a tune softly to himself, "Are you tired?", Gary asked him. Stan shook his head, letting out a tiny noise that sounded like a hiccup. Gary laughed to himself, "You sound pretty tired", He remarked. Stan tightened his grip on him, and Gary winced slightly, "Did you know that-- that I can speak French", Stan questioned. Gary giggled at the random fact, but still tilted his head in curiosity. Stan cleared his throat softly, "Je t-- wait no... Je t'aime de... toute mon âme", Stan knew the meaning behind those words, and he meant them. Gary tilted his head, "Oh! That translates to 'I love you with all of my soul'... Right?", Stan almost choked on air, "You-- You knew what it meant...?", Stan's face blushed, and his heart sang out. Gary nodded, "French is a beautiful language! when did you start learning?"

Stan hadn't learned, he looked it up on google before coming so he could confess secretly, "Oh I-- I just thought it sounded cool", He gave a drunken hiccup in between his words every now and then. Gary sighed and rested his hand on the floor. Stan's eyes were heavy, and he wanted to lie down, "I think the seven minutes are almost up", Stan said, almost as if complaining, "Oh man... I like hanging out with you", Gary said, full of sorrow. Stan looked at Gary's hand on the carpet floor, before he put his hand over the blonde, interlocking fingers. Gary looked away and blinked rapidly. Stan turned the other way, before turning back around and looking at their hands.

"Oh my god, fuck this", Stan shouted before turning Gary and kissing him. Gary's eyes widened and his face grew a steamy shade of red. Both of them sunk into the kiss, wanting it to last forever. Stan's lips tasted of alcohol and strawberry chapstick, which gave quite a shock to Gary, who had never tasted alcohol before. Stan ran his hands around Gary's waist, while he rested his hands on Stan's hips. Stan leaned his weight onto Gary, causing them to fall on their backs. When Gary hit the floor, he broke the kiss. He looked up and Stan, who was on top of him, "Stanley, what are we doing--?", Gary asked, out of breath. Stan shook his head while panting as well, "What needed to happen a long time ago", Stan leaned back in for another kiss, which was graciously accepted. The two wrestled on the ground for a minute or two, only breaking off to take breaths of air. Stan cupped Gary's face and sat up.

"Gary I-- I love you...", Stan said in between breaths. Stan wished it was the alcohol speaking, though deep down he knew it wasn't. Who was he fooling? He had liked Gary since they first met in fourth grade.

The door to the closet suddenly swung open with two people standing over the boys, "No fucking way", Bebe said in shock. Kenny covered his eyes and laughed, "It has been nine minutes guys, time to get out", Kenny laughed to himself. The two boys stood up quickly, wiping themselves off and only exchanging awkward glances. Kenny kept laughing, while Bebe remained in shock, "I was not prepared to see that", Bebe slightly giggled. Gary and Stan sat down, still out of breath and sweating. Stan rubbed his hand on Gary's thigh, causing him to grab Stan's hand and hold it. Stan's heart swelled, then his mind processed what had just happened. He just kissed Gary. Gary fucking Harrison.

What the fuck just happened?

Chapter Text

Stan and Gary sat back down in the circle, everyone was looking at them. Gary wiped his mouth but could not remove the taste of alcohol from his lips. Stan's eyes were heavy, but he was smiling. He had this grin of pure joy. He had never kissed a boy before and was glad his first was Gary. Gary sat with his knees raised to his chest, he was scared. Scared his parents would find out that he had sinfully wronged the temple. It was one thing to sneak off to a party with no one knowing, but to kiss a boy on the same night? Gary's heart ached simultaneously, wanting to go back to that closet and finish what they started. Though the kiss was sweet and made Gary full of delight, he knew that Stan was only acting out under the influence of alcohol. He knew that Stan had no feelings for him in the slightest.

Stan did have feelings though. Feelings that made him want to combust under the insane amount of pressure and doubt clouded his mind. He was sick for wanting to kiss Gary. Out of every boy in this school, he chose Gary as his first gay kiss. He should hate Gary, and Gary should hate him, but instead, he longed for the touch of him again. Longed for the taste of his soft lips against his just one last time. Stan couldn't even look Gary in the eye anymore. He probably ruined everything between them. What if Gary hated him now, and what if he thought he was disgusting for wanting to grab onto him and never let go? Why did this stupidly perfect kid have such a grasp on his heart? Stan remembered now. He's perfect, quite literally an angel sent from heaven. Gary Harrison was the most perfect kid in the school. Perfect grades, perfect attendance, and the perfect personality. All of the attributes beat everything. Stan's stomach suddenly roared. He covered his mouth and excused himself to the restroom. He opened the door and threw up. Everyone shouted for him, making sure he was okay, but it was all a blur. He did love Gary.

Stan finished vomiting and sat up. He walked out to where everyone had gathered. All of the kids surrounded Gary, asking him all kinds of questions, "Gary did you guys seriously kiss?", Gary covered his face with his shirt and nodded. Everyone gave a loud 'aww' as he answered, "You guys didn't--... do IT did you?" Clyde asked. Gary's face turned a bright pink and he sat up, "You know what? There's Stan! I think Im going to head home now", Gary said, basically jogging over to him, "Can we go home now...?", Gary whispered. Stan nodded, feeling the need to throw up once more. They both walked out the door as everyone in the group continued to gossip again.

The cold and harsh breeze hit their faces. Gary scrunched up his nose and sat down on the porch, "My--... My nose still kind of hurts from where Kyle... Yeah", Gary started but didn't finish. They both sat in silence, wanting to talk about what just happened but none of them had the courage. Gary sat with his knees to his chin, unable to put them down due to the cold, "Stanley, I--" "No. No there's nothing to say, Gary", Stan cut off Gary's sentence. Gary turned to face Stan.

"Gary... I... Really... Like you. Okay? I've always liked you. Ever since you showed up in fourth grade you just--... Your stupid hair and your gay jacket. Everything about you. I love you, Gary."

Stan covered his face with his palms, wanting to cry, throw up, and swoon all at the same time. Stan's words hit like a bullet to the chest for Gary, "Stanley, I like you too", He stuttered. Stan looked back at Gary with awe and then looked up. Gary did the same. Gary pointed up at a cluster of stars and let out an excited gasp, "Look! That's the Orion constellation! We're learning about it in advanced astrology. Do you have that class?", Gary asked turning his head back to the raven-haired boy. Stan, still watching the sky, shrugged, "No", Gary looked back up and smiled, "That's alright. It's pretty, isn't it?", Gary blushed, "Not prettier than you", Stan said with confidence. Gary flustered up and shook his head, "Oh goodness stop it!", He chuckled before Stan laid down on the cold pavement, staring up at the blue sky.

The silence grew loud, and the only noise that dared interrupt it was the soft drunken hiccups from Stan. Stan did not move from his position, he only stared up and admired. Gary listened to Stan's slow breathing. Gary shivered, just now realizing how cold it was, "Are you cold?" Stan asked, sitting up. Gary nodded, shaking again. Stan rummaged through his keys and darted his eyes over to a car, "I drove here. Go ahead and hop in, I'll be there in a second", Stan informed. Stan quickly took one swig of the small whiskey he had hidden in his pocket. Gary sat up and entered the car, and Stan was not far behind as he promised. The two car doors open and slam.

Two green eyes watched as the two originally walked out and sat down. Those emerald eyes stared silently as the two hopped in the car and stayed stationary, "Damn Kyle", Cartman remarked, shoving some food down his mouth, "I didn't think you would have been this upset with Stan", Kyle shook his head, "It's not Stan, It's Gary!" Kyle practically shouted. Cartman shrugged and continued eating, "Really?", Cartman asked, not convinced at all. Kyle shot Cartman a flat stare of anger and frustration, "No matter how far Stan puts his fucking hands down Gary's pants he's still my friend", Kyle looked at the steering wheel, "Gary though, I couldn't care less if he gets jumped", Cartman laughed, "You fucking wish you gay ass jew", Kyle almost punched Cartman. Instead, he sat further down in his seat and rolled his eyes, "You think that Gary wouldn't be his friend after everything, but here we are", Cartman shrugged, "If you hate him so much just beat his ass."

"I fucking tried! He's still hanging out with him", Kyle's eyes blew wide, "Fuck he probably told Stan that I beat his ass", He put his hand on his forehead and sighed. Cartman looked into the car in front of them, no sign of Gary and Stan, "Dude you're like... Obsessed", Cartman chuckled. Kyle's eyes widened and his brows furrowed, "No Im not! Shut the fuck up fatass!", Kyle yelled. Cartman flinched at the tone and then laughed to himself, "Look-- Tomorrow, at school, I'll just talk to Stan about it!", Kyle suggested. Cartman shot him a confused stare, "What the fuck--? No! Stan isn't going to listen after you beat up his boy-toy. Show that fucking grin-wearing asshole who is boss", Cartman shot back. Kyle looked at him, "Fine, but I'll need your help" "Forty-five bucks", Kyle threw his head back and groaned, "Fine."

Stan sat down in the driver's seat and Gary sat in the passenger. Gary fiddled with his thumbs before looking up at Stan, "I don't think you should drive", Gary spoke in a near whisper. Stan looked at Gary with what seemed like anger, "Why", Though it was more of a statement than a question. Gary looked back down at his legs, "Well... You have been drinking", He stated. Stan looked at the dozens of bottles of alcohol on the bottom of the floor. This hadn't been a problem in the past, but he didn't want to upset Gary, "I'll wait it out for a little. When I sober up I'll drive you home", Stan offered. Gary nodded and looked in front of them, "I-- I had fun tonight", Gary said, "Even with the whole... Kyle situation?", Stan winced. Gary sucked air through his teeth and nodded, "Yeah, even with that", Gary bounced his leg.

"Well, I'm glad. I had fun too", Stan looked out the window. Gary glanced over at Stan, who was still staring out the window, "Where were you today? I didn't see you at school", Gary struck up a conversation. Stan's face went to shock, "Ah-- I just felt sick" "Oh no! Did you catch a cold?" "I think it was just a stomach bug", Stan made up. Gary smiled and adjusted his hair, "I'm sorry to hear that, are you feeling better?", Gary leaned over. Stan nodded, letting out a deep breath. Stan turned to face Gary, who was already facing him smiling.

"Your hair is in your face", Gary leaned his arm over and tucked Stan's hair behind his ear. Stan didn't move, and allowed the blonde to fix his hair, "You have such long hair!", Gary exclaimed, running his fingers through the long and unkempt hair, "Yeah I know I need a haircut", Gary's eyes widened, "I wasn't calling it ugly! I think it's quite dashing", Gary blushed, "Holy fuck stop using words like that", Stan's face turned red, "Like what? Dashing?" "Yes!", Stan yelled a little. Gary snickered, "Why not?", Stan's face kept its happy appearance, "Because it makes you sound like a medieval knight!", He lampooned, "No it does not", Gary said in disbelief, "It so does", Stan shot back at him. Gary covered his mouth, "Then I guess you're my princess in need of my help", Gary said with a seductive tone. The car fell quiet, "What the fuck just happened-- Did you just hit on me?", Stan spoke with perplexity. Gary leaned back in his seat, "Wha-- What?! No!", Gary's voice cracked, "You just fucking hit on me!", Stan teased. Gary glowed in embarrassment.

"I wasn't trying to!", Gary yelped as Stan continued to taunt the poor boy by laughing. Stan wiped his eyes, "Look, if anyone in this car is a princess, it's you", Gary eyed him, "No I am not", Stan hiccuped and nodded, "Yes you are!", He giggled. Gary rolled his eyes, "Stop it", He chuckled slightly. Stan punched Gary's arm softly, "You know it's true!", Gary turned to face Stan, and the two made eye contact. Stan shifted in his seat, and Gary leaned in slightly.

They stared at each other for what seemed like a year before Stanley leaned in and reignited what was thought to be left in the closet. Stan interlocked hands, their fingers dancing as they met. Stan continued leaning over until he was practically climbing over to Gary. Stan crawled on top of him and laid the blonde's head on the car door. They continued to kiss, neither of them brave enough to stop. Stan removed one of his hands and moved it to the back of Gary's head, pushing him further into Stan. Gary sunk into his hand, making him seem like he was letting the older boy take full control of him. the kiss was finally broken off, and both of them were left speechless. Stan used his free hand to lock the car doors and roll up the window. The two then climbed into the backseat, Gary leaning himself over the door while Stan towered over him.

"Stanley--" "Shut the fuck up and kiss me", Stan broke him off. Gary smiled and nodded, kissing once more. Neither of them moved, not sure what to do next. Neither of them wanted to take it to the next level. Stan closed his eyes as Gary grabbed onto the front of his shirt. Stan used one of his hands to feel up Gary's shirt, which sent the blonde into a flustered panic. He flinched from Stan's hand. Stan backed up, "Too soon?", He asked, wanting to make sure Gary was comfortable. Gary shook his head and grabbed Stan once more. Gary was exhilarated, he felt himself get warm and his mind flooded. Stan was the same.

After a while, Stan backed up and sat down over Gary, "Gary... Do you want to maybe--" "Go out?", Gary finished. Stan nodded, "Like a date?", Gary asked gleefully. Stan covered his mouth, "Uhm... Yeah", Gary twinkled, "Yeah, I would love to", he gave a charmed smile and hugged Stan. Stan hugged back and rubbed his eyes, "You taste like cherries dude", Stan remarked. Gary giggled and rummaged through his pocket, pulling out a cherry-flavored chapstick, "You taste like... alcohol", Gary exclaimed. Stan's eyes grew in embarrassment, "Fuck I'm sorry about that--", Stan fixed his hair. Gary grinned and grabbed Stan's hands.

"Stanley, you don't have to apologize I get it! Though you probably should look into your drinking addiction, It's not a good habit to have at such a young age", Stan chuckled softly, "Thanks, honey", Gary's mouth went agape and he felt himself get crimson, "Ho--Honey?", He stuttered, "Yeah, I think it's cute", Stan smiled. Gary's eyes narrowed and he leaned up to Stan's height, "What has gotten into you? You are not my Stanley", Gary closed his eyes and laughed. Stan blushed at the use of 'my Stanley'. Stan wrapped his arms around Gary's waist, "So are we like... Dating?", He asked. Gary shrugged, "If you want to...", His voice trailed off, "I do", Stan finished, giving Gary one more peck on the lips.

"We should probably start driving home", Gary remembered, "Oh fuck you're right", Stan pushed off Gary and climbed back into the driver's seat, buckling up. Stan fixed his hat and smiled at Gary before starting the car.

Chapter Text

The car ride home was awkward. Stan could feel himself tightening the grip on the steering wheel, still in his drunken stupor. He remembers Gary telling him to let him drive, but pretended he didn't.

Gary sat down in his seat, head on his hand as he stared out the window. He felt as if he were a new man. He had never felt this way, nor did he believe he ever would.

Stanley occasionally looked over at his new lover, wondering if he made him upset. He slightly tapped his finger to the song on the radio, trying to distract himself the best he could.

"Hey uhm... Stan?", Gary started, "What's-- What's up, Gary?", Stan slurred.

Gary shifted himself in his seat, "Do you think we should tell anyone that we're...?", He seemed uncomfortable, "Well, my parents couldn't give two shits about me, and I know that almost everyone at our school supports gay people so... Are you're parent's okay with it--" "No, they aren't. It's against our religon to. We aren't allowed to act out being gay", Gary whispered, as if he were afraid that his parent could hear him.

Stan sucked the air through his teeth, "We... We can keep it to ourselves for now. We can come out to them togeth--" "No! I.. I mean no. I can't do that, Stanley. They'll kick me out", Stan looked over at Gary, who was tearing up.

"Whoa whoa whoa, it's going to be okay. Please don't cry- Please", Stan rubbed his hand on Gary's shoulder, "We'll figure something out, okay? Besides, right now we need to take our relationship kind of slow. Get used to it, y'know?", Stan clicked his tounge, causing Gary to chuckle and wipe the tears from his eyes. Gary looked up from his sorrow and rested his head on Stan's shoulder, "Let's just focus on getting you home, okay?", Stan took a hand off the steering wheel to rub his back as they continued driving.

Almost 15 minutes passed, and Gary was stepping out of the car onto the asphalt driveway. Stanley smiled and gave a sweet thumbs up to Gary. Gary only gave a weak smile back.

"Goodnight, Stanley. Drive safe, please", Gary begged. He could still smell the alcohol on Stan, even from 7 feet away. Stan shrugged, "I'm fine. Go inside and get some rest."

A silence struck the two, only locking their eyes as they admired eachother.

"Alright I need to get home. Goodbye, Gary", Stan waved, rolling up the window and driving away.

Gary turned to face his house, taking long strides to the front door. The lights were off. Gary checked his watch which read 1:35am. His family was already asleep, so he needed to be as quiet as possible. Sneaking through the kitchen and up the stairs, Gary crept into his room, before silently shutting it and sighing in relief. He sat down in his bed, getting himself comfortable, before hearing a loud voice call for him downstairs. Gary's heart suck. He felt the adrenaline pump in his veins, as he sat back up and walked downstairs. There, he was greeted with his mother and father, both deadly silent.

"Hi mom.. Hi dad..", Gary smiled. His mother shook her head, rasinf her hand as his father did not move an inch. Gary looked at the two of them, confused on how they had found out that he was out wihtout their permission.

"Gary Harrison, tell me the truth. Where were you?", His father inquired. Gary froze, "I was--... I was out on a walk and I didn't notice the time, I didn't--" "Don't you dare lie to me, Gary."

His mother held out her phone, revealing a photo that the girls at the party had taken of everyone. Gary was in the background, smiling and waving to the camera. Gary felt embarrassment rise, and he pulled a hand to his face. His mother scowled as his father let out a low breath, "I was just out with some friends! I wasn't doing anything wrong!" Gary pleaded. Garys father sat up and pulled Gary out of his seat.

"Go to bed, we will talk about this tomorrow, Gary", Mr. Harrison pointed to the stairs. Gary sulked up the stairs, every hair on his body raised in fear. He entered his room, laid down, and started to cry to himself. He knew he was fucked, there was nothing to be done. There was nothing he could do, except wait for school, so he could see Stan again. He closed his eyes and wished for everything to be alright tomorrow before falling asleep, tears still rolling down his rosey cheeks.

Stanley had been home. He sat in his gravely driveway, not moving. He had opened more bottles of alcohol. Since Gary was gone, he could freely drink again without feeling guilty.

He took another chug, while scrolling on his phone. He viewed the photos that were taken. He smiled softly at all of the stupid photos of him. The party was fun, except for when it wasn't. Stan remembered how Kyle had attacked Gary, and how bad he felt for him. Gary hadn't done anything wrong, and he sure as hell didn't attack Kyle first. Stan uncomfortably shifted in his seat. It had seemed more uncomfortable in the recent years. Stan stared at his house in front of him. He weighed his option if sleeping in his car. He didn't want to get up but his seat was uncomfy, and was making his back hurt.

Stan sighed an climbed into his backseat, falling asleep almost as soon as he landed. He dreamt of Gary and all of his friends. He wanted to come tell his friends about his newfound relationship, but he knew he couldn't. Besides, Gary's parents aren't with the whole parade... They certainly wouldn't approve of Stan out of everybody. Stan silently tossed and turned the entire night, as did Gary. Both wishing they were two different people.