Chapter Text
What a lame chick flick. He was never fond of musicals to begin with, so watching the movie adaptation of The Phantom of the Opera was an absolute chore to get through for Kyle. And what was with that casting? Gerard Butler as the phantom? Who’s idea was that? That dude couldn’t sing to save his life, hearing his “singing voice” sounded like nails against a chalkboard. While watching the movie, he looked up the cast on google, and saw that Antonio Banderas was originally supposed to play “Erik.” Can’t Banderas actually sing? That would have been way better. Whatever, movies finally over, he’ll write his report on it for his school assignment tomorrow. It’s late, and he’s ready for bed. As he readies himself for bed, he can’t help but replay some of the songs in his head.
He has to admit, besides “Erik’s” parts, the music was pretty good. He really liked “Point of No Return” the most, and “Mascarade” was undeniably catchy. As he hummed the songs in his head as he brushed his teeth, he considered maybe listening to the real musical recordings sometime. As he thought about the movie some more, he thought how bizarre it was that the phantom was named Erik. Not exactly an old frenchie name. And what was with the K? He scoffed. Eric’s just a cursed name, no matter how you spell it.
Kyle shook his head, not wanting to think about his chubby friend. He’s caught himself thinking about Eric a lot lately. And he’s not sure why. Well. That’s a lie. Kyle knows why, but he still has a hard time admitting it to himself. So he keeps it repressed, and hidden. His feelings for … he blushes, and sighs. Time for bed.
***
Kyle blinked his eyes open, it was so dark. Where the hell was he? He slowly got up, trying to take in his surroundings. He could hear the faint sound of water dripping from all around him. It was so damp and dark in there. He looked around some more, it seemed as if he was in some sort of underground, cave? No not a cave, tunnel maybe? He called out into the darkness, “Uh, hello?” He heard his voice echo down the tunnel. He shook his head, and stood up. As he stood, he noticed he was wearing odd clothing. ‘Huh?’ He looked at his arms, then his body, he was wearing a beautiful white suit. With intricate embroideries and patterns sewn within. ‘What the f*ck?’ he questioned.
He looked over and saw a long flowing lake of murky looking water on the far side of the tunnel. He walked to the body of water, to look into his reflection. His hair was slightly longer than it usually was, and far more unkempt. His red curls were unbound and free. He shook his head in disbelief, what the f*ck was going on? Just then, he heard loud music begin to play. It sounded like, a piano? No, an organ. What the f*ck? Who was playing music in this underground water tunnel? Not sure what else he could do, Kyle followed the sound.
On the walls of stone surrounding the tunnel, were torches, illuminating Kyle’s path. Kyle looked closer at the torches, they were all made of gold, and were shaped like arms holding torches. He looked at them with unease, he wanted to get out of this weird place. It was creepy as hell. As he carefully traversed the dark tunnel, he slowly came closer, and closer to the music. He continued to inspect his clothes. He had to admit, even though it looked kinda old timey, it looked good on him.
Finally, he reaches the organ’s whereabouts. Maybe whoever’s down here can help him get out of here. He stands before a large dark door, the music is coming from inside. Kyle stands there apprehensively. Maybe he shouldn’t go in there. The door is large and old, kind of gothic looking. A scary demonic looking figure made of metal looms down near the top, acting as the door knocker. He figures knocking won’t do much good, as it’ll likely be drowned out by the music. So he slowly, and nervously, opens the door.
The massive room inside is a sight to behold. There’s a dark gloomy lake, and candles floating on the water, it’s not dark at all in there. There’s beautiful, colorful drapes and tapestry hanging from the ceiling and walls. Candelabras and torches everywhere. The room was so big that there were stairs and platforms and multiple levels. Then he sees the organ, that sat nearby a flight of stairs and luxurious furniture. It’s massive, and beautiful, dripping white and red candles strewn all over it. Kyle wonders how much of a fire risk that is. The music comes to a sudden halt, which startles Kyle a little. Only now noticing the tall figure sitting before the organ.
He can’t see his face, he can only see how big he is. Kyle gulps, coming in here was definitely a bad idea. The figure stays still for a moment, then speaks, in a sultry, yet familiar voice, “There's my angel. What took you so long, my fiery little fox? I thought you knew your way by now.” All Kyle could do is stutter, he had no idea what to say or do. The man just chuckled, and started playing a different, more soothing song, at a much softer volume. “How was the show my dear? You were amazing tonight, your voice never disappoints.” Kyle started blushing at the praise, but he wasn’t sure what the heck this guy was talking about, “T-the show?” Was all he could say.
“Tonight’s opera darling, you played the lead role? As per my, request, to your bosses.” Yeah, this still wasn’t ringing a bell. “I’m uh, not sure what you're talking about man, can you just uh, I need to get out of here.” The figure then stood up, Kyle still couldn’t see the other man, “Leave? But you’ve only just arrived dearest.” The man said almost seductively. Kyle was starting to get annoyed by this aggravating and confusing conversation, but before he could complain, the large man took a step forward. And Kyle could now clearly see the man before him. Kyle’s eyes widened, his heart beat at an impossibly rapid pace, and his face matched the color of his hair. He stood in awe of the sight before him.
The man was massive, tall, and handsome. He had slicked back brown hair, an intimidating white mask that covered half of his face, and a long, beautiful black and crimson suit. He looked so familiar. Kyle was speechless, just staring at the breathtakingly handsome man before him. The man quietly laughed, and approached Kyle slowly. Kyle just realized that the organ music was still playing, the keys were now moving by themself, how were they doing that? He and the taller man were now face to face, Kyle had to crook his head up just to look him in the eyes.
The masked man took Kyle’s hand into his, and softly kissed it, Kyle was now blushing profusely. The man, still holding Kyle's hand, began guiding him up the stairs, up to where the organ was. Kyle mindlessly followed. “Not very talkative tonight, hmm? You must be tired.” Kyle just blinked, remembering what was happening, “N-no, not tired, I’m, good.” The man squeezed Kyle’s hand, “If you are tired my dear, we can forgo tonight’s lesson. Would you like me to play you a song?” He said as he caressed Kyle’s hand with his thumb. Kyle just stood shell shocked, staring into the man’s mismatched eyes, “What’s your name?” Kyle found himself saying without thinking.
The masked man chuckled, “Eric. Don’t you remember?” Eric? Eric. “I uh, right. Sorry.” Eric just smiled, “Sit down dear, rest.” He guided Kyle onto a lovely crimson couch, it was so soft, and luxurious. Eric then walked back to the organ. He then began playing the most beautiful music Kyle had ever heard. Eric played with such gusto, such passion. He really was attractive, his soft, round belly, that chocolate hair. He was so attractive to Kyle, that he wasn’t even perturbed by the mask. He wondered why he wore it. Kyle sunk into the couch, and closed his eyes, letting himself be taken away by the music of the night. He truly felt at peace.
After some time of letting Eric play for him, the man spoke, “Would you sing for me tonight dear?” This question took Kyle by surprise, he got so accustomed to the comfortable silence, “Uh, sing what?” Eric chuckled, “Whatever your heart desires. Let me hear you sing.” Kyle got up from his comfortable lying position. Pondering internally on what to sing. For some reason, his mind was blank. After a few moments of silence, Eric spoke up, “I’ve got one angel.” Kyle swoons, this guy sure had a way with words. All of the sudden, Kyle could hear violins and music, where were they coming from? This room must be magical or something.
As Kyle looked around the ceilings in confusion, Eric stood from his seat at the organ. And began to sing.
Past the point of no return, no backward glances,
Kyle turned to see Eric singing, staring at him with half lidded eyes.
Our games of make believe, are at an end.
Eric had a beautiful singing voice, Kyle was instantly entranced.
Past, all thoughts of if, or when. No use resisting. Abandon thought, and let the dream descend.
Kyle was so entranced, he had only just noticed he was walking, walking towards Eric. Slowly, too slow.
What raging fire shall flood our souls? Which rich desire unlocks these doors?
Kyle now reached Eric, Eric grabbed Kyle’s hands into his own.
What sweet seduction lies,
He pulled Kyle closer to him, their chests now met.
Before us?
Eric cupped Kyle’s cheek within his large hands, Kyle leaned into the other, he felt so safe.
Past the point of no return, the final threshold.
Eric tightly embraced Kyle, Eric’s head deep within the crook of Kyle’s flushed neck.
What warm unspoken secrets, will we learn?
Eric then pulled away, still close, hands still intertwined.
Beyond the point of no return.
Kyle looked deep into the man’s eyes, it was like staring into his soul. He got so lost in those eyes, that he didn’t notice his own self, starting to sing.
You have brought me, to a moment where words run dry.
He rapidly blinks, how does he know Eric’s song? How does he know what to say?
To a moment where speech disappears,
Why does it feel so right?
Into silence.
Why can’t he stop?
Silence.
He doesn’t want to stop.
I have come here, hardly knowing the reason why.
He places his hands onto Eric’s shoulders, Eric grabs his waist.
In my mind I’ve already imagined, our bodies entwining, defenseless and silent.
Eric somehow pulls him closer.
And now I am here with you.
Eric leans close to him, he can feel his breath on his neck.
No second thoughts.
He starts peppering his flush neck with soft kisses.
I’ve decided.
Their foreheads are now touching. They look deep into each other's eyes.
Decided.
The music picks up, and the two start to dance. Eric, takes the lead, as Kyle sings.
Past the point of no return. No going back now.
The room is full of music, love, light, and passion. He lets Eric take the lead, in their passionate ballroom dance, this feels so right.
Our passion play has now, at last begun.
Eric dips Kyle to the melody, he’s so strong.
Past, all thought of right, or wrong. One final question.
Kyle dramatically grabs Eric’s face, their foreheads meet.
How long are we to wait, before we’re one?
Eric turns Kyle around, so his back is hitting Eric’s front, he embraces him tightly. Their heads caressing.
When will the blood begin to race? The sleeping bud burst into bloom?
Eric caresses Kyle’s hand, nuzzling it with his soft lips.
When will the flames at last,
Kyle jerks his head back, tightly grabbing hold onto Eric’s hand.
Consume us?
Kyle turns himself around, so that they are both facing each other once more, desperately holding onto each other. Now both singing.
Past the point of no return. The final threshold.
They’re so close. So close.
The bridge is crossed, so STAND. And watch it burn.
Kyle is suprised, by how desperate Eric sounded just then. They’re foreheads meet, as they desperately caress.
We’ve passed the point. Of no return.
The pulled apart somewhat, face to face. They stared into each other’s souls. Their lips collided. Kyle passionately kissed the masked man, his lips were so soft, his moans, so desperate. They pulled away, but only for a moment. Kyle took in the sight of his mysterious courter. So gorgeous. So wanting. They pulled back in, for a deeper kiss, this time, Kyle took the lead. He nibbled the man’s soft plump lips, the taller man moaned, and allowed Kyle to go deeper. This man felt heavenly, it felt perfect. It was like a dream. Eric pulled Kyle’s head closer to his, desperately trying to deepen the kiss. They couldn’t have enough of each other. It was like their bond, was unbreakable. Like the song sealed their fate.
Eric fervorously explored Kyle’s body, those strong hands, gripping him, made him moan into the kiss. He dug his hands into Eric’s chocolate brown hair, while eagerly, and passionately kissing the man with vigor. After what seemed like a lifetime of kissing the magical man of mystery. Kyle broke the kiss, Eric hummed in content, still holding onto Kyle for dear life. They both panted, they both felt euphoric. After another moment, Eric lifted Kyle’s chin, his eyes half lidded, with the softest smile one could imagine.
Say you’ll share with me one love, one lifetime, say the word, and I will follow you.
Kyle smiles, letting the man serenade him once more.
Share each day with me, each night, each morning.
Kyle cups his hands on Eric’s soft, cheek.
Say you love me, like I love you.
He softly rubs his thumb on Eric’s cheek, he never wants this moment to end.
Love me. That’s all I ask of you.
Kyle smiled, this is the best day of his life. “I love you Er-“
Kyle’s eyes beam open as “Paradise City” by Guns and Roses loudly blares from his phone. He’s in his room, morning light leaking out from the window sill. Kyle’s mouth is agape. His eyes wide. He’s almost unresponsive. He doesn’t even care about the obnoxiously loud phone alarm. It was a dream. It was a f*cking dream. ‘Go back, go back GO BACK!’ he inwardly screams, as he angrily pulls at his hair in anger and despair. The phone eventually shuts up, Kyle desperately tries to recount every single detail of the best dream he ever had. He pretty much always forgets his dreams, he’ll be damned if he forgets even a single aspect of this dream. He just wants to go back. Just wants to go back.
***
Kyle was absolutely devastated all morning, sulking and miserable as he readied himself for school. That was the best dream he’d ever had in his entire life. It felt so real, he could still feel the closeness, the kiss. He knew he’d never have a dream like that ever again, so he’d just replayed the whole thing, over and over again, in his mind.
Eric. Eric was so hot?! What the f*ck? And Kyle looked pretty good too, he considered maybe letting his hair go free today, like it was in the dream. He sighs, and does his hair like normal. Why can’t his Eric be like the one in his dream? Those f*cking pet names, they were so, endearing. He was so charming, so charismatic. And way taller than he actually is, as Kyle’s taller than Cartman in reality.
Wait, so was Kyle supposed to be Christine in the dream? Why was HE the girl? He puffs, he could easily be the phantom. He can still remember those dark, foggy tunnels, like a labyrinthine. The dreariness, and mystique of it all. And Cartman, Eric. Holy sh*t. Kyle will never get over this.
He knows he has feelings for Cartman, he has for a while. He likes him so much Eric’s even flooding his subconscious mind and dreams now. Kyle only now realized just how much he really wants him. And not the idealized phantom version. The real Eric. But having a crush on your close friend sucks. Kyle doesn’t want to risk rejection, they’re friendship would be tainted, and awkward. Kyle’s heavily sighs, he’s been pushing his feelings aside for way too long, maybe this dream was the wakeup call he needed.
***
Kyle hops in his car, and throws his backpack on the passenger seat. Before he starts driving, he scrolls through his phone, and opens his music app. His thumb hovers over a single song, does he dare? He closes his eyes, and breathes heavily, he needs to hear it again. He presses play on Point of No Return, the 2011 Royal Albert Hall recording though. He closes his eyes, and listens.
He solemnly drives to school, so deep in thought, entranced even still by the melody. He remembers the dream, he feels that strong man, the velvety suit. It finally gets to “his part” and somehow, he can recite it perfectly. He can feel the passion in their voices, the intensity of the situation. His car idles as he waits for yet another stop light to turn green, he groans, wishing he could be back in his dream. Anywhere but reality. The reality where Eric doesn’t love him like he loves him.
The song then switches to the All I Ask of You reprise, and Kyle tightly grips the steering wheel. Dream Eric wanted him, he loved him. He wanted Kyle to love him back. f*ck. “f*ck!” He shouts audibly, accidentally honking his horn. He snaps out of it, he needs to get a hold of himself. He drives as calmly as he can the rest of the way, while Think of Me plays. ‘Damn, this ones pretty good too.’
***
The four boys stand nearby Kenny, fiddling with his locker, schools yet to start. Kyle’s as anxious as can be. Standing right next to the real Eric right now, is a little intimidating. The real Eric was so different from Phantom Eric. Phantom Eric had short, slicked back chocolate brown hair. Real Eric has a nasty mullet he hardly ever combed. Standing next to real Eric, he remembered their height difference. Kyle’s always been the tallest of the four, Cartman’s still the shortest. Unlike his messy hair though, Kyle admits there’s nothing Cartman can do about that.
Real Eric groaned, “Hurry up Kinny, I gotta grab my math book.” Kenny just waved him off, head still deep in his messy locker, “Hold on my vapes almost done chargin’.” Cartman scoffed, “Kinny, I swear to god if your ghetto ass Temu vape explodes in class again, I’m gonna beat your ass!” Kenny just rolled his eyes, going ‘yeah yeah’
Kyle stood silently, hands clenched. Trying his damndest not to think too hard. Cartman was wearing that cologne Kyle liked today. Smelled so good on him. So enticing. He closed his eyes tightly, reprimanding himself, he can think about sh*t like this later. If he’s not careful, he’s gonna give himself away. Just as he was inwardly conflicting with himself, Stan looked at Kyle puzzled, “What’s with you dude? You’ve been all jittery today.”
Kyle’s eyes beamed open, was he really acting that off? Dammit Stan. Before he could say anything, Cartman piped in, “I bet Khal’s jus nervous about the bio exam today. Aren’t ya ging?” Kyle rapidly blinked, Cartman knows that he’s been struggling in biology lately, it’s been a really confusing chapter, even for him. “N-nah I’m just, kinda cold I guess, didn’t bring a jacket today.”
While sulking and spiraling in inner turmoil before school, he totally forgot to grab a heavy jacket, it wasn’t unbearably cold today, but he did regret not bringing one, so he technically wasn’t lying. Cartman scoffed, “Jesus, can’t yew do anything right? Who forgets to bring a jacket this time of year?” He teases. Kyle pouts, his crush can really be an ass sometimes. Most of the time. All of the time. Before he can say anything back, to his surprise, Cartman starts taking off his own jacket. “This is so f*cking gay, but I owe you a favor for loaning me your car when mine was at the shop.” Kyle’s eyes are wide, in disbelief, “Plus, this jacket's pretty new so, no one will probably recognize it as mine.” Kyle’s star struck, motionless. Cartman tried to hand him the jacket, “Take it.” Kyle’s frozen still.
“Goddamnit take the damn jacket dickface!” Cartman scolded. Stan piped in, “I think dudes frozen, or something!” He said half joking, half concerned. Cartman groans, “Jesus f*cking Christ, I gotta do everything around here?” He drapes the jacket over Kyle’s shoulders, he insanely feels the warmth enveloping his stuttery body. “There, don’t say I don’t do nothin’ for ya.” He said while pouting, trying to seem uncaring. Before Kyle could thank him, the bell loudly rang.
“Aw weak, I’ll see yew pricks in class, I gotta grab my f*cking book.” Cartman turned around and headed off in the other direction. Kyle just watched him go, wishing he could say something, anything. But he can’t open his mouth. He wants to follow Cartman, stay by his side, but his legs won’t move. All he can do, is clutch onto the jacket. It was definitely new, but it still had Cartman’s distinct smell. A smell he’d come to like so much. He could also faintly smell that cologne.
As he watched his crush leave, Stan put his hand on Kyle’s shoulder, the sudden contact brought Kyle back to reality, “Dude, that was really nice of fat*ss! Must be in a good mood today or something.” Stan commented. Kenny chuckled, “Yeah, last time I asked to borrow something from Cartman, he charged me.” Kenny added. Stan and Kenny laughed while Kyle stood unphased. That was really nice. Even though it just happened, he plays back the moment in his head, the way Eric swiftly moved behind him, placing the jacket on his shoulders. It reminded him of the dream. How Dream Eric held him in front of him, burying his head in Kyle’s neck. f*ck.
The black jacket even reminds him of the dream, that dark black long coat and suit. Kyle facepalmed, he was so embarrassed, he felt like a damn anime schoolgirl. Stan tugs Kyle’s shoulder, “C'mon man, let’s get goin’.” Kyle just followed, and absentmindedly listened to Kenny and Stan’s conversation. He sighed, this was gonna be a long day.
