A/B/O Promptis Nothing beats dancing except owning a cat

[starless_sky]

 
It had been a rough few weeks. Noctis and Prompto were doing their best to get back to normal life after the attack. The student body's response had been polarized. Some called Noctis a hero and championed him for putting down criminals. Others called him a future tyrant and threatened to leave Lucis as soon as they turned eighteen. 

The glaives were on patrol at the school every day even when Noctis and Prompto didn't attend class. They were responding to a 'clear opportunity to improve student safety' as one of them put it. The school hadn't been upholding their security obligations to Noctis and as such was in breechof a contract. When that came up, it was asked 'if it isn't good enough for the prince, why is it good enough for other kids?' and so the school was overhauling its security plans with the kingsglaive's supervision. Arctus was expelled, he'd be marked as a sex offender for life. Regis left it to Prompto if he wanted to press charges for his own case. 

The parents of these kids were livid, but they couldn't say much. There was a lot of fuss in the meetings about it, Noctis heard. A lot of talk trying to slander Noctis as a thug and even implying Prompto was a slut who seduced the kids. Anything to try to express the helplessness and rage they felt. Regis had let them simply air their anger in closed session meetings. It changed nothing, their children were dead and the photo evidence made it hard to refute these kids were rapists. Not to mention the sudden influx of other victims coming forward. A lot of whom had started to form a pseudo therapy group where they talked about it. The school, under pressure from the citadel, hired several counselors to lead this group and even some classes for the general student population. The leader of said group, Celerita, had reached out to Prompto online. He offered this group to him too. He was a senior, the head of the boy's track team, and he had been trying to recruit Prompto since he started high school. 

The news had printed nothing, the radio was silent on it, even online traffic was being censored. Noctis was waiting for it to become old news but things were different in high school now. Probably forever. It made it nice to just stay at home and forget all that mess. But today, and just for now... Noctis had to leave Prompto's side. He had a couple packages that needed signing for downstairs and also he wanted to pick up the mail. And maybe call Uber Eats. He was in dire need of pizza. 

In the apartment all was quiet, the world was normal. Except for a weird high pitched noise coming from outside. 

Comments

[starless_sky]

Noctis was really impressed with the progress Prompto was making. They all were and they told him as much. Noctis thought he was so strong. He wanted to spoil him more as a way to make him feel better but Ignis said that was wrong. It would be like compensating him for what happened. So Noctis tried to do little things like order in and bring things home that made the apartment fun even when Prompto didn't want to leave. New games, movies, and more anime.

He'd been skeptical at first with the therapy group at school but Prompto seemed to benefit from it so he welcomed it. He'd wait outside the library they met in after school and he was a permanent fixture of the group in that way. Everyone would arrive and say hello to him as they entered and then goodbye as he waited for Prompto. One of the first days he did that a teary eyed girl came to to thank him for what he'd done. She could finally stop watching for Sergius, she said. She could finally sleep at night. It made Noct's gut twist but he told her he was glad she had peace.

No matter what the parents might say he'd never regret killing those two. Not just for Prompto but the others who had no one to protect them.

Speaking of which, Noctis was really impressed by Mr and Mrs Argentum. In a negative way. They had been like brick walls when they explained the attack. Noct had thought they'd tragically gone into shock and gave them the benefit of the doubt but they genuinely didn't seem to care. Sure, they were happy Prompto was safe but that's about it. He can't imagine Prompto growing up in this place. He'd never badmouth Prompto's parents but he disliked them. If they just left he'd be okay with that.

He'd gone to therapy with Dr. Aqualis and Prompto a few times, at the doctor's request. He'd come to any and all sessions if need be. They seemed to be making some progress. He'd wait for Prompto outside then too. He may or may not be finishing Prompto's homework for him.

Oh, you only have two assignments tonight, maybe you forgot you already did the third at school. I think the teacher wrote it up wrong. What am I writing? Don't worry about it.

On the balcony the kitten was hiding under a chair. She mewed at Prompto a few times before stepping out of her hiding place. You. Human. Have you any food?

She sniffs around and meows rather obnoxiously.

[hajimetejanai]

Prompto was honestly relieved that Noct seemed to be doing better too. He dutifully came with him to every session, both at school and at counseling. He was supportive and kind and sometimes it was enough to help him forget how cruel others could be. More and more often, Noct gave him reasons to smile, and that was really all he could ask for and more.

His parents were a harder topic, they'd always been cold and distant, but since moving to Noct's apartment, it was almost like they had little reason to even keep up contact. He tried not to think too hard on it, or let it consume his thoughts too often, but it was little wonder he so often felt like someone's problem, rather than a welcome friend. It was as if this new issue had reminded them that they still had a son, that they still had to be involved in some aspects of his life.

Prompto was keeping up with schoolwork, though sometimes he was amazed it happened at all. He was sure with all the missed days, he'd be repeating their last year, but somehow, he scraped by, the work got done.

And now he had a whole new distraction.

Prompto watched the kitten come out, sniffing and meowing loudly. Some animals were hard to understand, but like himself, he knew they often craved food or comfort. And nothing got an animal to like you faster than food. Noct was going to freak out, he loved kittens!

"There you are!" his voice was high and cheerful, encouraging her to come closer, "what a pretty kitty! You wanna come inside? I bet we have some leftover fish if you're hungry."

[starless_sky]

Prompto was doing better every day, how could Noctis not be doing better too? As long as his mate was alright he was happy. Prompto had the support he needed and he was getting help. He started to like the counseling sessions. It was nice down time for him to finish Prompto's homework or play on his phone but even in the office with Dr Aqualis he was starting to enjoy their time.

The Argentums almost made him angrier than the kids he'd killed. They had a cruelty that was more sinister than an outright attack. It came under the guise of love and it was given to a child who didn't know better and trusted them implicitly. They seemed so reluctant to ask what Prompto needed after his assault and when Noctis explained the citadel was handling everything their look of relief was palpable. Not relief that Prompto was okay or even that they had no financial burden, those Noctis could understand. But they seemed relieved that it wasn't their problem. They didn't want to engage even to check on their child. How could you ignore your child?

Noctis was glad his father had been so welcoming to Prompto. He wondered now if his dad saw the need for a parental figure and just stepped up.

Prompto wasn't going to be held back. Not if Noctis had any say in it. He could give a damn about the ethics of doing his boyfriend's class work. The school let this happen to him, his emotional state shouldn't be allowed to jeapordize his grade.

But grades were about be the last thing on their minds.

The kitten hurried to Prompto but stopped a few inches short of him. She meowed and twirled around,staring at him but not holding still long enough to be grabbed. She was very hungry and a bit under weight. She'd inhale anything that Prompto gave her.

She brushed his leg and sniffed him. She mewed again, showing her teeth.

[hajimetejanai]

Prompto tried not to think about his folks too much these days. He missed them, sure, but it wasn't as though he'd seen them any more often when he was still living at home. It just left him feeling kind of hollow if he dwelled on it for too long. Maybe he'd just been a frustrating kid, or cried too much, or not done enough. Maybe he should mention it to Dr. Aqualis.

On Noct's side of the family, it was a struggle in other ways. Regis was a kind man, and his approval meant so much, but it was hard to see him as anything but the king of Lucis. Prompto was sure they'd have more chances to speak in the future, and to hopefully break through that idea of strict formality, but in the mean time, it left him feeling a bit overwhelmed.

The cat was a welcome distraction. He'd yet to find a small creature that didn't enjoy a snack, and he hoped she'd wait for him to run and fetch it. Before he left for the kitchen, he held his hand out toward the kitten, letting her sniff, and giving a pleased smile when she butted her head against his palm.

"Fish it is," he confirmed, leaving the sliding door open while he got up to grab some of the leftovers. There was some of Iggy's battered baramundi from the other day left. He'd have to pick away the breading, but there was plenty of fish. He got a plate and picked at it, clearing a piece that was about the size of a deck of cards.

He made some little beckoning noises as he walked back over to the kitten. She'd only just started into the apartment, and seemed very interested in the scent of fish as Prompto returned and set the plate in front of her.

[starless_sky]

Fair enough. They certainly weren't thinking about him. Noctis wished he could convince Prompto it wasn't him out was them but maybe Dr. Aqualis would have better luck. She'd love to talk about this with Prompto.

Regis wished he had more time with the boys too. It was a never ending struggle but he was hoping to host them for their graduation. Maybe for a trip of some kind even around the city. He wanted to spend time with both of them not as the king but as himself, as the father.

This small creature loved snacks! She's lived on scraps since she was left by her mother. She has no idea how to Cat but are follows Prompto inside. She sniffs around and meows loudly at him until he pays attention to her.

Then there's a plate. She sniiiiffs at the offered food and then begins eating. She barely takes her face out of it enough to breathe. A meal! A real meal! She's never had such a thing.

The apartment door opens and kitty doesn't even look up. Noctis comes in with a couple packages and a pizza box.

"Got us dinner. Your favorite... What's that sound?" he looked around confused into he saw the little black ball. He froze and his confusion slowly bloomed into delight.

"Where did this little guy come from? Did you find him just now? Was he all alone?"

[hajimetejanai]

Prompto couldn't help but smile broadly as the kitten tucked into the meal. She's eating it so quickly, he's almost worried she'll make herself sick. Poor thing must have been starving! Prompto reaches out a hand slowly to stroke her fur as she eats, gentle at first, but with more confidence when he's rewarded with a rolling purr.

Noct couldn't have finished already, could he? Prompto is a little surprised at how quickly time passed while playing with the kitten, but waves Noct over with a smile and points excitedly with his free hand.

"Aw, babe, I thought you wanted pizza, you didn't have to do that," Prompto's smile softened.

He lifted his hand from the kitten's back and shifted back a step so Noct could see the little black cat better.

"Sounded like an animal crying out on the balcony, so I went and checked. Thought it might be a bird or something, to have gotten this far up," Prompto explained, "I didn't see any family, I mean- on our balcony? I'm still not sure how this one reached it. Poor thing was hungry as anything though, it's still pretty skinny. Little guy's been inhaling that baramundi."

[starless_sky]

She might need to be slowed down lest she vomits some of this back up later. She was starving but she doesn't exactly know restraint. She's never had this much food at once before and she's always just eaten all that was available. She's hungry not just for food but for physical contact as well, the purr is loud and continuous as she is petted.

Noctis had actually been longer than he'd expected to be. He drops his load on the table and smiles at his mate.

"Meh, I had the curry place's number already in my phone, it was easier and they're closer anyway." he just wanted to make Prompto smile. "Pizza can be tomorrow, no big deal."

He crouched down to look at the cat now finishing off his leftover fish. She was purring and face down in the meat. She had some stuck to her whiskers... c-cute...

"Awww... how come you're all alone?" he asked softly, daring to pet it with one knuckle. The kitten purred and Noctis' heart melted. It was done, he couldn't say goodbye now. "Oh, look at you... we're gonna feed you fish all the time. Prompto, we gotta take him to the vet."

[hajimetejanai]

Prompto is a little worried when the kitten wolfs down the entire piece without slowing, but it is purring happily, so hopefully the food stays down in that tiny tummy. He scratches under the cat's chin and rubs its cheeks, and is rewarded by the little beast leaning into the motion, eyes closed and blissful.

"I'm never gonna complain about more curry," Prompto smiled back at Noct. Iggy would probably chide them about eating out so much lately, but comfort food was comfort food, even if it was junky sometimes.

He was glad that Noct seemed just as thrilled about the cat as he was. And the kitten warmed up to him just as quickly as it had to Prompto. How could you not love something so affectionate and sweet?

"We do?" he asked, a little nervous, "won't that be scary for him? He's so little."

[starless_sky]

She will be fine especially after she pukes in your shoes. She loves you very much already. Please to be petting more human. She will purr much loudly.

"Well, I did say I owed you more kheer after the last one spilled." all over... but it was delicious anyway. Eating off Prompto was kinda hot. But anything that Prompto would eat, Noctis would get.

How could he not be excited about a cat? A real cat, a cat that would be HIS if things worked out just right for them. HIS CAT. He never had a cat, just visitors. This is game changings.

"Well yeah, we need to know if it's chipped, sick, or injured. We can get through it. The vet is a new place but everybody there cares about animals, that's all they do there. Do you want to go with me? I will take you by the curry place afterward. If you don't want to go I will bring curry home."

[hajimetejanai]

Prompto continued to stroke the little kitten's fur, teasing it closer so he could slip a hand under its belly and pull it into his lap. The tiny creature seemed to tense for a moment, but quickly made itself at home, claws making pinprick marks over his thighs as she got situated. He let out a couple of pained squeaks as the cat kneaded his leg, but kept petting the creature, the purr like a motor in overdrive.

"H-hey, that was...an accident..." Prompto blushed, trailing off at the memory. He was a lot more daring when in heat, his body so much more needy and sensitive, and it was hardly his fault that last one had hit in the middle of their takeout dinner. He wanted to chide Noct for wasting a perfectly good dessert pudding, but he'd be a damn hypocrite; he'd enjoyed it every bit as much as his mate, whether or not he'd actually admit it.

"Oh, I guess you're right," he let out a breath. Of course, they had that sort of technology now, he didn't have to go posting flyers or searching for an owner like he had for Chibi Pryna. He shouldn't let himself get attached, it was probably a neighbor's cat. How else would it have reached their balcony? Unless it was some holy messenger like Lady Lunafreya had. Either way, odds were good they wouldn't be able to keep it. He felt his heart sink a little, and held the kitten closer.

"I um..." he started, trying not to fidget with the cat in his lap. Leaving the apartment had been hard lately, at least, without Noct at his side, close enough to hang on to if anything happened. He hadn't even been running lately, too scared to go alone anymore, wanting to bolt every time another person so much as looked at him on the street. That was a hard cycle, and one he was still trying to resolve. If he didn't run, he felt like he had to restrict his diet even more, but it made him feel weaker and he'd just end up bingeing on takeout or delivery stuff.

"I'll go with you," he decided, trying to swallow down the uneasy feeling that always seemed to creep up at the thought of leaving their safe home. Noct would be with him, it would be fine, he reminded himself. And they'd be able to find the kitten's proper owner. They were surely missing the cute little cat. "I'd hate to think soemone's missing their cat. You're right, we should hurry."

[starless_sky]

The little girl was keen to be picked up. She purred even louder when Prompto did just that. she wanted to be snuggled and she made it known. Noctis flinched from across the table. "Listen to the motor on him. He likes you." he smirked as Prompto winced a bit and shrugged at his mate. What can you do?

"I'd be willing to repeat it." Noctis wondered how their next heat would go since the attack... maybe a heat would help Prompto build his relationship with sex again. Maybe? Hopefully?? They had a lot of fun before, he'd hate for Prompto to lose that. "I mean, it wasn't a total waste, I still got mine off you because somebody couldn't wait." it was him. He couldn't.

Chibi was happy to have somewhere to sleep and she will always have a fondness for Prompto because of that. She'd find him again one day and maybe sleep over for a night if she could. Noctis could see the sad look on Prompto's face and he could imagine he was thinking the worst about the kitten being chipped. Likely it was chipped, he couldn't imagine how it got to their balcony so high up but it had to live nearby. At least they could send it home and maybe... he'd look into adopting a cat. If it would put a smile on his lover's face he'd bring the whole vet clinic home. Ignis would have a field day.

"You don't have to go. I can go and I'll facetime you when the doctor is there if you want. I'll come back with curry. Ok?" but Prompto was already saying yes to going with him which was brave and heartwarming. Prompto probably needed to get out of the apartment but Noctis hated to see him visibly uncomfortable. He hadn't been running lately and Noct was too lazy to get up and go with him even though he could use the exercise.

"If you're sure... then it will be easier if you hold him and I'll get the car." he kept his car now, instead of being driven by Ignis Noctis drove Prompto around. It was a nice weight off his steward and it allowed him freedom to escort his mate with some anonymity to the vet clinic. It wasn't a secret that the prince had a fancy one-of-a-kind car but most citizens were not familiar with it enough to recognize it on sight while driving.

"I'll grab a towel, maybe you can bring the rest of the food for him." the kitten was still purring and starting to rub against Prompto and meow at him. Ur her person, aren't you??? She knows you are! Ur her mama!

Noctis comes over to Prompto, towel in hand, and bends down to rub the kitten's head with a finger. "Awww... you want to come with us to the doctor?" she purrs and pushes into his hand and Noctis nearly whimpers. "I... we.... should go..." but he still pets her. Not moving to the door.

[hajimetejanai]

When the kitten seemed pleased to have been picked up, making itself cozy in his lap and comfortable with his presence, Prompto could feel his heart melting. Even when Chibi had stayed with him, she hadn't been this affectionate, this quick to care and so accepting of another human. He didn't stop stroking its fur, steady, but gentle.

"Y-yeah, I can do it," he assured Noct, hoping his voice sounded a little more certain than he felt. But when the kitten began to rub up against him, meowing and purring and all but marking him as its own, he felt a tiny surge of confidence.

Noct retrieved a towel before getting just as distracted as Prompto felt. He was almost worried the thing would get overwhelmed and just as quickly turn to biting once it'd been petted enough, but perhaps the kitten just hadn't been shown much affection, or didn't mind an excess of it, because it seemed content to just let him continue.

He tried to maneuver the cat into one arm, held up at his chest so he could grab a bit more of Iggy's packaged leftovers from their fridge. As if the first serving hadn't been enough, it began to gnaw the corner of the tupperware almost as soon as Prompto had it in his free hand.

"Woah, easy there, no rush, food's not going anywhere," he assured the cat, knowing full well it didn't speak Lucian, but speaking in gentle and soothing tones all the same.

"You wanna hold it for a minute while I try to save Iggy's storage containers from kitten-induced destruction?" he laughed lightly. It was just as much excuse to let Noct hold it as anything else. He knew Noct liked cats, but he'd yet to see him hold one or really get to play with one.

[starless_sky]

Pryna was cautious about a stranger, friendly as Prompto was, and she also already had her mother. This kitten though, she was ready to make a connection, she needed one so desperately. She won't bite her mama, she just needs to be cuddled and babied for a while. She was still rather young and lost her birth mom's attention too soon.

"I know you can but do you want to?" Noctis tried to stay focused but the kitten gnawing impatiently on the tupperware was making him smile. It was too cute.

"Aww, you must be hungry." he took the cat as soon as it was offered, he'd actually been stepping in to offer his services as a cat-holder before Prompto asked. "Yes, you're starving and Iggy made good fish huh? Do you want more fish? You need it to get big and strong. How about I fish you up some? Say yes~" the kitten mewed at him and Noctis just melted too.

"Yeah, Prompto's getting your fish out, you little piggy." he cooed and soon he had the cat pressed to his face. He can't stand it, it's so cute. But kinda stinky. "Where have you been? You're getting a bath, that's for sure. Awww, you poor thing. You've been through it haven't you? Where did you come from? Where's your mama?" spoken so softly as if to an actual baby. He may or may not be cradling the kitten.

[hajimetejanai]

When Noct asked again, he felt his stomach twist with uncertainty. Would he be a burden if he forced himself to go? Noct had been extremely patient with him the last couple weeks, and he knew the last thing his mate would want to do was put him in a situation that would cause him distress. But Noct had only just returned from his last trip. It had been a short one, sure, but how long would he be gone at the vet? What if it was crowded? What if he was alone here for hours? What if there was an intruder? Or if he had another panic attack?

Prompto hesitated, carefully handing the kitten over to Noctis, not wishing to break this new good mood the cat had put him in.

"I think," he started, somewhat nervous, "I'd just end up worrying if I stay here. As long as... as long as it doesn't bother you if I come with you?"

Noct had pressed him to be more honest about his feelings, so he hoped that was the best choice. His mate gave him a lot of reassurance, reminded him that he was wanted, that he was loved, but his anxiety always worried that it was conditional, that it was only true until he became too obnoxious or did something wrong. His rational mind knew that wasn't true, but it didn't keep worry from creeping in from time to time.

He went to work packing his messenger bag, taking out some of the school books as he put the leftovers in, along with the towel Noct handed him. And, hesitating a moment, he poured a bit of milk into a small round container before popping a lid on and adding it to the bag.

The kitten already seemed in love with Noct. The promise of fish, the doting attention, the way he babied it and spoke sweetly to the little creature, how could it not like him?

Prompto shouldered the bag, torn between wanting to join in and pet the kitten a bit more before they left, and knowing the odds were incredibly small that he'd get to keep it, that he shouldn't get too attached. Not that he had to keep it to be kind to it though...

He finally caved and leaned in close to Noct so he could rub a line up the bridge of the kitten's nose, smiling softly as it mewled back at him. If Noct said it was okay for him to come, he'd follow him out the door. If he preferred Prompto stay, well, at least he'd packed the bag properly for him.

[starless_sky]

He didn't mean to be pushy about it, he was trying to get an authentic answer from Prompto. But he had made himself known and continuing to ask was just belittling him so Noct shut up.

"I always like you around. You can never bother me." he smiled as he cooed to the kitten more. He wanted to keep it already but he knew it was likely they'd just find out where its home was and hopefully they'd get to be part of a happy reunion. The poor kitten must have gotten to them from another balcony but how???

The girl purred loudly when Prompto rubbed her and she closed her eyes. She was content just like this. But Noctis led the way to the door and out to the car. She was handed off to Prompto to hold until they arrived at the vet clinic. She was a bit more eager to explore. Especially whatever Mama had in the bag. She swore she smelled something before that was good.

Noctis hoped he had picked a good vet clinic. Monica mentioned once that this person was excellent with cats and she never took hers anywhere else. Plus they had appointments right away. Inside the vet, they checked in and were shown to an exam room. In there they had to wait for the vet to appear and they could ask to scan for a chip.

The kitten was meowing more and more, she seemed curious about her new space but she didn't seem interested in leaving Prompto. Noctis wondered how they'd get their new kitten. He'd already decided for himself that if this kitten went home to its owner, then he would find a kitten for him and Prompto to adopt. He had spent five minutes with this one and he couldn't go back to life without a cat.

He reached over to pet her with a knuckle and she sniffed him.

"You're being very brave, you're a good kitty. I bet you want to go home, huh? You wanna go home? You want some more fish?" the cat licked his finger, it tickled a bit and Noctis chuckled. "he likes me I think?"

The vet came in then and after a quick exchange, he looked at the cat.

"...She's a girl... a stray it looks like. She's young. Six weeks maybe. She's too young to have been chipped."

"She has no chip?"

"I can scan for one but I don't think she'd have one, she's so small."

Noctis' eyes went wide and he looked at Prompto. Clearly, they had to be of one mind given this news, right?

[hajimetejanai]

Prompto appreciated the reassurance, even if he was sure it got repetitive for Noct sometimes. It meant a lot, just to hear he was welcome or to know Noct wanted him there.

He knew they still had to keep their relationship on the down-low for a bit longer, at least until the party, and while that meant he couldn't usually hold Noct's hand or do much more than walk beside him, having the kitten to hold was genuinely helpful. He held it close as they traveled to the vet, letting the cat rest on his chest, held in the crook of one arm. He pulled bits of the fish from his bag from time to time as they waited, giving the kitten only small pieces, and slowly, so it wouldn't make itself sick.

"Of course he-" Prompto started as the vet came back, but didn't quite get to finish the thought. Noct was so sweet to the little critter, of course it would immediately fall in love with him. He could practically see how very mutual it was, the care in Noct's expression, the soft smile... yep, he was smitten. Prompto almost missed what the vet said next. The cat... was a stray?

"Six weeks?" he frowned, fingers curling around the kitten a bit more protectively. Not chipped, so new... could one of their neighbors have had a recent litter? Surely she was missing her family? He caught Noct's expression and while he wanted to adopt the kitten just as badly, it was hard to immediately let go of the idea that her family might be missing her.

Maybe part of that was his own projections. As one who'd been adopted himself, it was hard not to wonder if he had family somewhere who'd looked for him, who'd wanted him and maybe just couldn't find him. But the reality was a lot colder, and sometimes you had to settle for the family that took you in, even if it could be lonely.

He swallowed hard, promising himself that he'd never let anyone or anything he adopted feel that way. He knew how painful that was, and he knew he could try to be better, to love more generously.

"We... we should probably still put up some missing kitten posters, but... she can stay with us, for as long as she needs to, right Noct?" it was more a question than a statement, but one he was sure he knew the answer to.

[starless_sky]

Noct would always want Prompto around, that's part of what being his mate was about. Plus it was good practice for him to communicate his feelings.

Noctis wasn't terribly fond of PDA in general and there were strict rules about it handed down from the royal etiquette traditions. Apparently, his grandfather Mors had made a lot of rules like 'no PDA' and 'No nicknames' or 'marriage proposals require permission'. He already broke the second rule, in fact, Regis had broken it himself when raising Noctis. So he was sure the others wouldn't be very heavily enforced. But still, if Prompto wanted to hold his hand in the future it would be welcomed. And for now, that kitten was just too damn cute. Even when eating all that fish. How could all that food FIT in that little belly!?

When the vet came Noctis was shocked by the news too. The vet did a quick scan that proved there was no chip and as a precaution, they did some blood work. Noctis had a moment along with Prompto to talk about it.

"I want to chip her. I want to adopt her, don't you? We should make the posters up, sure, but I want to take her home. If we hear nothing for a while we can just keep her." which wasn't what he wanted. He wanted to say fuck it, this is their kitten but he knew if it were his he would want someone to return her and give him a chance to reunite with her.

"We should get her checked out and then chip her, we won't fill out any information on it yet so if she is someone else's then they can put their information on the chip. But... if she is someone else's then I want to adopt another kitten."

[hajimetejanai]

Prompto fidgeted nervously as the vet ran the scan and still, no chip. It just didn't seem possible that such a well-mannered kitten could show up on their balcony, of all places, and not have a real home to go to. Six weeks, he hoped they hadn't made the poor thing sick with all the solid food! He wasn't as knowledgeable as Noct was on breeds and types, she didn't seem like one of those expensive sorts, she just looked like... a little black cat.

He held her on his chest, letting her nuzzle up under his chin, small enough he could hold her in one hand, but he kept the other around her, stroking her softly, as much to comfort her as his own anxiety. Of course he wanted to keep her too, he was honestly surprised Noct didn't already own a whole litter of cats and had a feeling it was only Ignis' practicality(and that he'd inevitably end up cleaning up after it) that kept him from it.

Prompto had wanted a pet since he was small, growing up alone, it seemed like a fantasy to get to have a companion who he could go on adventures with or that wanted to play with him. Their rented condo hadn't allowed for pets though, and no amount of begging had changed his parents' minds on the matter. That Noctis was so straightforward about adopting this one now... well... he didn't want to argue, honestly he wanted her just as much.

"I want her too," Prompto admitted, finally letting himself say it, think it aloud. He hadn't wanted to get attached, not like with Pryna, not let himself think that they'd be together only to find out they belonged to someone else.

"She's so little, I can't... I can't believe someone would just abandon her," he said quietly. It was hard not to draw parallels himself. While he didn't know the full story behind his own adoption, it was a hard thing to overcome in any circumstance, even knowing that the place that had you before had marked and tagged you like an animal.

"She'll get spoiled rotten with you as a Papa," he let himself smile a little.

[starless_sky]

Noct wasn't at all knowledgeable on breeds and types the way the vet was... but he was a bit of a geek about animals. He may or may not have volunteered at the animal shelter attached to this vet.

The doctor suggested a few tests as well as some medicines. After an examination of the kitten and doing some quick bloodwork he returned. The kitten wasn't terribly ill but it was looking more and more like she'd been on the street rather than in someone's home.

The kitten curled up under Prompto's chin and purred. She closed her eyes and Noct knew she was happy at last. He put that image to memory. His mate and the kitten and he knew he couldn't part ways with her. Posters be damned. maybe he could talk Prompto out of putting them up at all. They could just keep her.

Already he was tossing names around in his mind. He'd thought about adopting cats before but Ignis had indeed talked him out of it. He was too messy, his place wasn't safe for an animal and once he could give one a safe clean home to live in then he could adopt. Now that he had Prompto and the apartment was livable... well that was different. And Prompto clearly adored her. She loved him too. They had to take her home.

"Maybe she's a stray. Maybe she found us somehow." he scooted over to Prompto and looked at the little girl under his chin. "You can't spoil a cat, she's fine. We need to get her a lot though. A tower and bed and some bowls... toys... litter box..." he is so excited to get started on that list too.

The vet finishes her check-up and inserts a chip into her. Small as a grain of rice. He hands over forms to register the kitten to them or to any owner they find. Noctis takes care of the vet bill and they are free to leave.

"You think you can manage a stop at the pet supply store? Or do you want to go straight to get curry? She can eat out of some of the bowls at home, I just need to get her a litter box but you can stay in the car with her. We can order her stuff online once we get home." he didn't want to overextend Prompto's stamina to be in public, even with the comfort animal.

"What should we call her? You're good at names, any ideas?"

[hajimetejanai]

Prompto nodded along at the vet's diagnosis, as he explained the test results and what it likely meant about the kitten's history. He tried not to move too much as the little creature snuggled up under his chin. He knew exactly how hard it was to not have a family or home, to not know where you could belong. It was impossible not to feel protective of the kitten, and his fingers curled carefully around her, cautious not to hurt her, but in an almost instinctive protective gesture.

"Maybe, yeah," Prompto affirmed, though it was hard to let go of the idea that she might belong to someone else. "We should get her some proper food too. As good as Iggy's leftovers are, I don't think table scraps are very good for her. She's so little."

He barely relented to let the veterinarian place the chip, feeling anxious when she was out of his grasp. Had he really gotten attached so quickly? When Noct suggested they go straight to curry, he shook his head.

"We gotta get her that stuff, it's... I'll be okay," he nodded, holding the kitten close. It wouldn't be fair to keep her from the essentials, whether or not she was only visiting. His fingers gently combed her soft fur, even as she began to fall asleep in his arms.

"Oh uh..." he trailed off. His names for Pryna hadn't been particularly inspired, but he'd tried to do better since then.

"Midnight? Shadow? Dusk?" Most folks in Lucis had latin-based names. Would it be better to go that route?

"Caligo? Umbra is like... shadow, right? Nox? Somnus? Nah, that'd be weird huh! One of your ancestors' names. 'Somnus, stop scratching the couch!' or 'Somnus, don't pee in the corner!' I think we'd get cursed or something," he started laughing, genuine and honest, a smile breaking across his features like dawn after a long night.

So I did some google research and found this name

[starless_sky]

Noctis could see the bond already growing between the kitten and Prompto. How could he possibly try to separate them now? Even in the unlikely case that this kitten belonged to a human, Noctis was of the mind that maybe they didn't deserve her back? That was a cruel and self-serving idea to have but it was easily dismissed. He didn't believe it was true that the cat lived with humans before now and he could simply enjoy watching his mate bond with their little animal. Maybe this would help heal Prompto somewhat. He had something to protect now.

The vet made some recommendations as to food to feed her, treats, and gave them some medicine to give her regularly to prevent worms, fleas, ticks, and the like. She mewed when she was injected with the chip. Her claws dug into Prompto's shirt until she was forced off then she had the most pitiful look on her face as she was stuck and Noctis knew he couldn't just let her leave them. He couldn't guarantee her level of care anywhere else but with him and Prompto. She had to be theirs.

Once they were on their way to the car Noctis nodded to Prompto's agreement to go shopping. "Alright, pet store first, curry after." Prompto was being brave but he didn't want to call that out and make it awkward. Should he commend that? Just let it be normal? He wasn't sure. He hesitated a bit before starting the car in silence and driving to the nearest pet supply store.

In there, they had an overwhelming amount of choices of bed, litter, litter boxes, toys, food, water purifiers, collars. Noct took a deep breath. Where do they even start? There was a tag-making machine too that caught his eye.

"Luna's dog is named Umbra. Yeah, it means shadow... wait. Somnus?" at first he frowned a bit because yeah that's his distant ancestor but also the namesake for their hometown. And a man's name. But still, Noctis smiled. Normally he'd feel awkward and push this sort of joke off pretending he didn't like it or was too cool for it but he started laughing. Prompto was finally having a real laugh and it was pretty silly. His ancestor would be turning in his grave perhaps. Maybe they needed to name the cat that just for the sake of it. Just to make Prompto laugh like that.

"Hey. How about Cali?" he paused. "It's ah... it's stupid, I looked it up once..." he thought it was so great until he had to now explain how he knew the name for 'Cup Noodles' in latin. Go on, ask him how he arrived at that name.

Cute!

[hajimetejanai]

Prompto didn't want to let go, but finally let the vet install her chip before returning her to his arms. He held her ever closer and murmured comforting words as she mewled her upset at the injection and being manhandled. It didn't take long to quiet her, though her little claws sank in around his neck and she tried to hide up under his chin to avoid any further prodding and poking.

He was glad Noct had all the notes for shopping and what she needed for food and how soon she'd have to come in for follow up checks. Just handling the kitten was enough to keep him completely occupied. He was relieved when Noct didn't fuss over him for wanting to join in the shopping too, and it almost seemed normal, even if they'd been out for longer than Prompto could recall in weeks. It was alright if it was for the kitten, they couldn't really leave it for later, after all, he reasoned.

Prompto stuck close to Noct as they made their way around the store, knowing better than to show any overt PDA while they were out, and instead focused on their kitten, and if he held her a little tighter or lost himself stroking her fur, at least he was keeping it together. It felt even better when Noct started laughing too, and he felt his tensed shoulders relax a bit, eyes flicking over the many, many options for every single item they were supposed to pick up.

"Cali?" Prompto mused. He figured it was short for Caligo, darkness, not a reference to Gladio's favorite instant meal. "I like that okay. It's shorter and cuter that way."

Google translate will tell you one thing but I found a post from a historian/linguist

[starless_sky]

Poor baby was not having it being away from mama. Noct knew she couldn't be asked to get used to another set of parents. They had to keep her, she was their baby already. Their little daughter! So off to the store they went! And he wouldn't make a big deal about Prompto staying out. Hopefully, this would become his normal soon enough and he could enjoy his time anywhere he wanted. Inside or out.

Noctis wasn't super into PDA because he was private and he wanted to protect Prompto from the paparazzi. But at the same time... his mate had the right to his body so if he felt the need to kiss or hug then he wouldn't stop him. A very simple double standard for Prompto to navigate of course.

Noctis headed into the cat section and started at litter boxes. He got them a cart first and then got a litter box and some litter. Then a little rug to go under it. "Hey maybe they should get one of those automatic litter boxes. You think? Wait nevermind, they had one at the animal shelter and it died in three months." Noctis was thinking out loud as he gathered items, put them away and replaced them with new ones, then replaced the new ones and put the old ones back in the cart.

"Oh. Uh... no... it's... it's dumb..." Noctis looked a bit sheepish, afraid Prompto might laugh but then again they'd just had a good laugh so maybe this would help him. "Calicem Lagani.... it means... cup noodles." he looks at the girl. "I wonder if she'd eat noodles. Anyway, I looked it up one time with Gladio. I was gonna name my practice sword that and he called me a whimp." and then beat him in the practice room, fair and square. It was humiliating.

"Hey, you think she needs a cute collar?" he stepped over to Prompto and reached a finger in to pet the kitten. She purred loudly. "Aww listen to that motor. You want a cute collar? You want to look pretty? Of course you do. Can I hold some up to you?"

hahaha wow. XD

[hajimetejanai]

Prompto kept his hands on the kitten, half to keep himself occupied, and half worry that she might try to squirm out of his grasp while they navigated the store. But really, she was so well behaved. It hadn't even been an issue. He nodded occasionally or made suggestions when Noct brought new products to the cart, but it felt kinda nice, he thought. Normal, even.

"If you're not sure what kind to get, we could just Moogle it? I'm sure a quick search would show what people suggest," Prompto offered. He'd have grabbed his phone and done it himself if his hands weren't preoccupied. He felt like he should probably know a lot of this already, for all the times he'd begged his parents for a pet and researched it in great detail, hoping that it would make him responsible enough to get one.

Prompto narrowed his eyes and raised a brow at the explanation. "You wanna name our cat, Cup Noodles?"

Okay, so Cali was a really cute name and he thought it was 100% hilarious, but he couldn't help but tease his boyfriend for the beat or two he could hold in his laughter. It didn't take long for it to bubble over, and he was laughing enough to jostle poor Cali.

"Oh, oh, sorry lil girl," he told her, catching his breath.

"Okay, Cali, but make sure Gladio knows he's not allowed to eat her up, cute as she might be," Prompto added.

He made room for Noct to come pet the kitten too, and nodded, "Maybe something to match those big pretty eyes?"

It is a Very Sophisticated Name, lol .Also MOOGLE is so clever!

[starless_sky]

She wasn't about to go anywhere but she was curious about her surroundings. So many smells and sights. So much smelled like food which reminded her she was hungry again. She wanted something and maybe to nap with her mama.

"Good point." he got his phone out and in a few seconds, he had an answer. He loaded up the cart with a box and litter and the necessary tools. Now they could focus on the fun things like toys and collars.

Except Prompto repeated his name back to him and Noctis couldn't stop the shiver. It was a cringe. It sounded so dumb. Right?

"Uh... well when you put it like that..." but then Prompto was laughing again and he couldn't help himself. He laughed too, that was a really stupid name. Cup Noodles. She deserved better than that but the way Prompto giggled was like before... all this mess. Maybe it would make him happy if they kept this at least as an inside joke.

"Gladio isn't gonna eat her, I'll kick his ass." he stepped over and stroked the kitten with two fingers. She purred softly and Noct smiled. "Hey, pretty girl." she was too cute, he was weak. He may or may not be taking time off from school in order to bond with her. Paternity leave. It was legit. Ignis would understand.

The collars came in all types, sizes, and prints. He picked out several he liked but he had a hard time deciding. He had a light purple one with a fabric flower sticking out with a jewel at its center. And another one with fish skeletons on it. He grinned at both.

"I can't decide. What do you think, mom?"

[hajimetejanai]

Curious Cali was already wriggling in his hands, excited to look around the store as Noctis gathered up supplies. He'd chalked it up to just wanting to move around and see things, but when she started meowing loudly, he was pretty sure it was more than just curiosity. Could she be hungry again already? Maybe they could swing by the treat aisle and let her nibble on something...

"I think our little Cali is starting to get the rumbly tumblies," Prompto distracted her with pets and scritches and started using his fingers as a play-toy, circling it just at the edge of her reach before booping a nose or a tummy. Her claws weren't quite fast enough to do more than graze the skin, and she really seemed to like playing.

"Hey Daddy, wanna find us some treats?" Prompto let slip, before realizing what he'd said out loud and in public, a blush coloring his cheeks and the tips of his ears.

He was glad for the distraction when Noct pulled out the collars, even if it was hard not to imagine getting one for himself, and the sort of play they might get up to.

"Uh-" his voice was a squeak before he got it under control, juggling Cali and looking at the collar options.

"Skeletons for sure, our girl is a straight up baller. She's hardcore, aren'tcha Cali?" he lifted her up, rubbing his nose against hers and bumping their foreheads together lightly.

[starless_sky]

She was a growing girl and needed her nutrition clearly. They'd have to get quite a few treats too. Just to make sure baby girl had plenty to keep her happy at home. Cali mewed when she couldn't get away from her mama to sniff what Noctis was putting in the cart. Hey! That smells like something she wants! Come back with that!

She is quickly distracted with the game Prompto plays with her but she's not coordinated enough to outsmart him yet. She gets booped! She loses! But this is fun, she will be up for this again. Like right now. Again!

Noctis looked over at the term 'Daddy'. At first he thought Prompto was saying it in response to him using 'mom' but the word had a slant to it. It kinda... wait was Prompto using it in a sexy way? Because that's how his brain took it. He smiled as he listened and as he headed to the treat aisle he wondered if maybe they'd have sex tonight. Maybe? Maybe Prompto was in a good enough mood? Noct never pressured him to but he hoped for Prompto's own sake he could reclaim his sexual desire.

"I got lots of choices over here, can't decide which one's gonna taste the best." he looked at Prompto a bit longer than normal, not sure how to flirt while shopping for cat supplies. Wait. Prompto was blushing. Oh. Well great, this was the cutest thing in the world. His blush was such a lovely shade and the way it reached his ears? Noct was grinning, they may as well have been alone in the store or the whole world in that moment.

"Look at you... don't be shy about it. I think I like it when you call me that," he whispered to Prompto, moving closer to speak into his ear. A braver version of him might grab his ass for a split second but Noctis wasn't there yet. Not that daring of a lover at this age.

"Love the fish bones. I'm getting her a bell too. You like the bells right, Cali?" but she was not paying attention to her new garment. She was booping the snoot with her mama and Noct just sighed and watched as they bonded. He snuck his phone out and took a photo. Hello, new lock screen.

He just piled five or six bags of treats in the cart. They could experiment with what she liked and buy more of her favorites. All that seemed to be left was a bed and a tag. Maybe a tower or scratching post too.

"Do you want to pick out a tag for her?"

[hajimetejanai]

Once Noct returned with the cart full of the necessities, they could pick out the fun items, and Cali would probably get tired of fingers as a toy. Besides, Prompto reasoned, he probably didn't want to teach her that attacking hands and fingers was the best idea. He picked one of the cactuar plushes on a string from the next aisle they passed, dangling that in front of her instead, bouncing it on her belly and giving her something she could actually sink her tiny claws and teeth into.

"Gonna be a little hunter, aren't you Cali?" he smiled. "I'm sure she won't complain about having more options for treats. It'll probably take a while before she knows what she likes. Don't want her to be picky like her... like her Daddy."

Noct's reaction to his slip of the tongue was unexpected. He'd had Prompto call him that a couple times in the bedroom, but it'd been hard to tell if he'd liked it or was just trying it out. But telling him not to be shy about it, Prompto tried, but damn, he'd only ever used it when they were mostly naked, sweating and pressed hard against one another. It was impossible to keep the blush from spreading, especially when Noct had leaned in to whisper so intimately in his ear. He'd have to try to find more occasion to use it.

"Bell for sure. If she's clever enough to go balcony hopping, we wanna make sure we know where she is," Prompto reasoned, glad for a change in topic he could hop to that would alleviate his blush a little. It wasn't gone in time to avoid getting caught on Noct's camera, and he hoped the picture didn't look an awful mess. Noct rarely took them himself.

Once the treats were in the cart, Prompto didn't waste time waiting til they got to the register for the hungry kitten. Besides, it would cost the same if the bag were missing a couple pieces or not. He tore open a corner and grabbed a couple treats, some kinda seafood flavor, soft nuggety things, and held them out to Cali with an open palm. She didn't waste even a second chewing on the toy, and immediately made for the food, going at it with gusto.

"Looks like they come in bone shape, star, heart, paw-print, or a boring circle," he looked at the little engraving machine, weighing the options. Somehow her dark-as-night colors and bright eyes reminded him plenty of Noct, as well as Insomnia's sky at night. So a star seemed pretty perfect.

He tapped the selection screen, decided on the star shape, and a few minutes later, had a tag with her new name, address, and contact info just in case the chip wasn't enough. Safe and sound.

"You're gonna be stylin' in this Cali."

[starless_sky]

She will never get tired of playing with mama. But she will learn to make her own toys like chasing around bottle caps. And also the little plushes like the cactuar. she loves it already and grips it with her tiny razor claws.

"She'll get plenty, there are lots of flavors and-- wait, picky like-- hey I am not that bad." he is that bad and then some. He knows this. "You saying I'm a bad influence?"

Well, he was sort of trying it out and he had mixed feelings on it. On the one hand, it was cheesy but on the other hand, he did like it? But only if Prompto liked it too. If Prompto laughed at it he'd swear it off forever. But if he was into it then he'd want to hear it fairly frequently. It reminded him of times they were naked and tangled in the sheets, both of them incoherent with lust.

"Right, she's clever but I don't want her house shopping. I dunno about her having balcony privileges either." not to be controlling but she might fall or worse. And the photo was cute. He turned his phone around to show Prompto. He was adorable in the pic, blushing, grinning at the cat, the cat stretching her legs out, meowing at him. Noct would keep it even if Prompto said it looked awful. Today was the beginning of a new chapter and this was a milestone photo. He decided that.

Cali inhaled the treats and meowed at Prompto for more. The whole bag, please. Do not make a princess wait. "She's got to be starving. She can have food once we check out." that or she's a bit of a pig which may also be true.

Noctis smiled at the star charm. It looked nice on Cali's collar and it combined with the bell and tapped it to make it ring when she moved. "There's no losing her anymore. Good. You look pretty, don't you think?" he took a photo of her with the collar, bell, and tag on. She was looking more and more like a domestic pet.

"Just need a couple scratching posts and we're finished. We can pile it in the car and go get curry. You still up for all that?" he looked to Prompto, he was pretty sure he'd be in a good mood. The cat looked so proud of herself.

Noctis paid for the items and they could leave in the car, now loaded up with cat items. "Ready to go eat?" he asked softly once they were all in the vehicle. "I can go in and pick it up so you don't have to get out with her."

[hajimetejanai]

Prompto watches her sink her claws into the cactuar and gives her a lopsided smile. The mighty hunter strikes! Thousand needles? Try these Lightning Claws!

"Not picky hmm? I'll have to let Iggy know," Prompto's smile became more mischievous and he gave Noct a gentle elbow. "I'm sure he'll be overjoyed to hear that."

Bad influence? Well, not bad, but he had a feeling that with how much Noct already liked spoiling the cat and how bad Prompto was at being the responsible one... yeah she was definitely going to be running the place before the month was out.

"Definitely balcony-banned," Prompto agreed. It was worrying enough that they'd found her out there, it was way too dangerous for a full-sized animal, let alone one who barely knew how cruel gravity could be.

Prompto's blush didn't diminish at all when Noct showed him the picture, if anything it only intensified. He looked like such a nerd! It was sappy and... utterly adorable that Noct liked it so much. It honestly made him happy, even if it was hard to admit.

Well, clearly those treats were acceptable, he was sure Cali would probably like any and every treat put in front of her, but she was a growing girl, and Prompto was happy to oblige. He did it in little bits though, tapping out just a few treats at a time.

"Slow down, it's alright little one," he assured, petting her a few times before offering a few more of the bite-size pieces. "No more going hungry! We'll feed you again when we're home, okay? Real food, so don't fill up on snacks."

The collar was nice though, and the more he looked, the more he approved. "A regular fashionista."

He couldn't believe how fast things had gone since finding her. While they'd had to run so many errands, it felt like hardly any time had passed. He'd been so nervous going out lately, but with both Cali and Noct, he'd felt at ease.

"Mmm, you know I won't say no to curry. We'll wait in the car, but you better hurry, you don't wanna miss out on prime kitty-snuggling time," Prompto teased.