A slow breath escaped your lungs, exhaling all desires at the world that you had lost.

A slow breath swept into your lungs, inhaling all the necessities of the world you’ve come to be a part of.

Your joints were slightly painful from the chill that was holding in the air, you cursed not bringing your gloves but you wouldn’t be able to trace the dying veins on the yellow tinted leaf you decided to keep yourself busy with if you had. The Apes welcomed you with open arms after what happened. After the flu that ravaged and killed most of what you held dear, after the in-fighting amongst the Apes themselves - a clear depiction that they were too much like the Humans they sought to distinguish themselves from, after endless arguments that your mere existence within the Colony was a danger and that you were going to be the slow demise of all they had built.

Languid and painful, everyday that passed where you woke up in a bundle of furs amongst them was just another notch in the ticking-time bomb of your existence. And that was why you were so disconnected now, sitting on the muddy ground of the forest, eager to find some solace away from a culture that wasn’t yours, flying hands that spoke more often than vocal cords. Just for a second - anything to help ease and remember who you were and where you came from. 

The small hairs that line the tips of your ears felt prickly, a spread of encased heat rubbed against your diaphragm. Uncomfortable, but you’ve come to recognize it as an alarm your body has been programmed to. Before a sound even broke the barrier, you were turning to your right. Fallen leaves from the nearby trees finally cried out as they were crunched under severe body weight as the intruder came forward. They were not threatening, you released some tension in your shoulders at the familiar gait. He walked with such quiet grace and aptitude, there was always a flicker of jealousy in your stomach at the thought that you’d never be quite the same. But within his stride… 

Your eyes softened as he neared, the scent of his wet fur encapsulating your nostrils and it began to outweigh the scent of the lingering ashes. Green and gold irises as dark and deep as the wet bark of the tree you were against yet as light as the melody of the Autumn coated trees nearby finally met your curious gaze, without reserve or hesitation. You redacted your previously started thought and replaced it with a better formed introspective. Within Caesar himself was the tightening hold of leadership thrust upon him but it was married affectionately with deliberate gentleness that was reserved for special occasions.

It never flitted across your mind that this would be one of those occasions, caught almost red-handed as if you were a child who ran away from home but the way he came around, such reverence in his stride, each placement of his footing intentional and bare, said otherwise. He was being purposefully quiet, something you decided to break as a few more stray leaves fell from what seemed like the Heavens themselves. “I didn't know I asked you to follow me.” There was banter in your statement but underlining that was a solemn interlude that carried into the already whispering hush of the forest. 

Caesar was intuitive enough to recognize the twinge of sarcasm seeping in your tone as well. He huffed in response, a small plume of cold air evident in front of his muzzle at the action and if you looked closely enough, you could see the rustling of the greying fur around his face. You watched his exhale disperse with a slight smile, turning back to the clearing of maple and oak trees, knowing that if there was no discipline, you would have looked at him in wonderment all day, hours on end without recourse. That was the sort of domineering trance that the Ape King put you in, but the way he glanced back, there was no doubt that it was a returned sentiment. 

“Never have to ask.” Was your baritone response, equally lined with the emotion you threw at him first.

It was your turn to huff, though it came out more as a chuckle as you nodded in contentment as Caesar craned his body to your level. For a split second, with the shift in his broad body to squat beside you, holding his weight rather skillfully in a hunched posture, his face was only a few inches from yours before it returned to a more suitable distance. About two feet, you figured as you tilted your head and peered into the distance. The jostling from that action caused some of the condensation on your hair to thicken into water droplets that now held desperately to their last hopes of staying on your head. 

“Winter’s almost here.”

There was some sort of absent-mindedness to your words as if on autopilot and you were talking to a stranger in line at the grocery store about mundane life. Something that hasn’t happened in a long time but it was now a memory that faded in and out of clarity when it saw fit. All of your memories were like that. Crisp and lively like some leaves, soggy and tasteless like others. It depended on how you looked at them. There was more to say, more you wanted to lament but your chapped lips came to a close while Caesar’s stare followed your own. Through the thickets of the forest was the rising sun and soon the fog that was blanketing around would disappear and the light would lay its claim, yet the cold still persisted. “It’s sad to see the Summer go. I wish it lasted a little longer.”

The double meaning in your phrase didn't go unnoticed and you were consciously aware of that. Caesar, of the many things that could describe him, was remarkably smart and had spent enough time around other Humans to understand that. The Ape knew what you meant from the envious recesses of your mind and it caused a lapsed silence to fall between the two of you.

There was some sickening idea that he was now thinking the same thing you were - about your lives before and it was distasteful to know that you were right. Caesar had many ideals about his life before, but the windowpane that became the symbol of the Apes’ freedom always came back. The endless days of Autumn where he would sit in his room, watching the shift in the leaves. Watching them fall off one by one onto the ground. Watching the wind pick them up and carry them away, sometimes in troves like little families. There was a time that he truly wanted to escape like that, and now that he had, remnants of the past still managed to haunt. 

The passage of time was a finicky matter and Caesar never conceptualized how much he’d miss keeping track of it. How things were marked in true years back then and weren’t labeled by things such as the leaves falling, the first snow, the flowers blossoming or the sweltering heat- though his instincts told him the aforementioned was the true way to go. A year never fit into a box. And yet… The worst one was the inevitable reminder that… Other Humans hadn’t been spotted in years. It was coming, as it always did near this time. Another leaf falling from the sky to decompose into the Earth, falling and falling… Until they were all gone, rotted away into nothingness. There would be traces here and there but nothing like they were.

Lifting your hand up, you offered the leaf that was still lingering in your grasp to Caesar with a jilted grin. Maybe he could forget this whole thing with the offering and you could just go back to silence and enjoy the sun rising---

“All things must change.” Caesar took the leaf from you, your heart beating rapidly in your chest at the feeling of his fingertips grazing yours. There was a second you wanted to protest to tell him to be careful with it, but you watched in bated tranquility instead as his thick fingers flipped the leaf to show the undercarriage that still remained slightly green. It appeared so soft against his more calloused skin and a deep urge to compare the two surfaces rose. 

Nodding, you swallowed back the little lump that developed in your throat so you didn't croak in response and brought your hands to your lap, intertwining your fingers in a meager attempt to keep them warm now that they weren’t holding anything. In a subdued way, you gave your reply. “I wish they didn't have to change that much.”

He was building the cadence of his words, putting true thought into how he was going to come across. With other Apes, it was mind over matter but with you…the challenge did present itself. Drawing a breath in, the hackles along Caesar’s shoulders rose in contemplation. “Forest… changes… Let’s go of the past…” Symbolically, the leaf that he had taken from you was released and you watched as it tumbled to the ground next to your feet. It was slow and deafening, looking now out of place beside your worn out boots. One move and you could crush it under your---

 “In order to survive. We must… do the same.”

“Doesn’t it scare you?” That was a quick draw inquiry, you were well aware and from the way that Caesar’s eyes widened out of the corner of your peripheral, it caught him off guard. He was good at answering questions straight on, he was getting better at answering philosophically. This war that they did not start, this war that your people sought after, but never did blame fly your way from Caesar’s lips, caused lost sleep. Caused days upon days not being in the comforts of a true home, and so many of them lost to the passage of time and changing fare… Sighing, he looked off into the distance again. The sun was now cresting over the horizon and was painting the forest in golden rays. There was a lack of heat associated with it, but it felt nice to have some clarity of what was out there between the trees.

“Yes, but…” The connection to raw honesty that he possessed was admirable. No point in sugar coating things in a war torn state. But still, Caesar found ways to soften the blow as he always did with touchy subjects. At least with you, and it warmed something that spread along your ribcage, up your spine and into the back of your head and the notion that Caesar truly reserved things only for you. “Things… must change now so they… Can grow again. Better. Stronger.”

“What if it can’t?” There was that feeling of falling again. Your hand outreached, looking for something to hold onto. Something to bring sanity. You found yourself grasping at another leaf, this one more red than the previous. You studied it for a few seconds, admiring the way that the color seeped into the almost faux leather texture in the center where it was still alive, but slowly dying. “What if… Things can’t grow here anymore?”

“They can… They will.” Raising his hand, Caesar lightly cupped your own and urged nimbly, his voice barely a touch above a whisper as he leaned towards you. You thought for a split second that he would press his forehead to yours, but instead, you felt his hand opening yours to release the leaf you had sought after and it danced its way to the ground to lay beside its friend. “First, you must… Let go.”

●・○・●・○・●・○・●・○・●・○・●・○・●・○・●・○・●・●・○・

That in itself brought Caesar enough satisfaction and contentment, knowing no one else had their eyes on you. Not that they would, considering most every ape thought it absurd his attraction to you.

And despite both of your differing responsibilities, Caesar found himself drawn to your side more and more each passing day. He kept finding excuses to accompany you on your scavenging adventures, and your gardening chores when he had nothing else pressing to do.

So because of your growing closeness and physical proximity… the past few days, Caesar had noticed a slight change in your interactions. The usual exuberance and chattering has been replaced with a more withdrawn moodiness. Your usual bright demeanor clouded by something he couldn’t quite identify. You laughed less, your smiles were more fleeting, and there was a tension in your movements that hadn’t been there before. He had tried to ask you about it, but you brushed off his concerns with a forced smile and a quick change of subject almost every time he branched the subject.

He considers himself to be quite an observant and considerate ape… so he knows this change in attitude is not something of his own thinking. It is a legitimate concern that keeps coming back to mind.

This only proves true later in the morning where the change becomes more pronounced. As Caesar prepares to join the hunting party, he glanced over at you sitting by the fire, staring into the flames with an abject frown. Your shoulders hunched and a tightness around your eyes screaming discomfort.

He hoots gently as he approaches on all fours, slowly coming into your line of sight as he signs slowly “Are you alright?”

You looked at him, your eyes meeting his for a brief moment before looking away. “I’m fine, Caesar. Just tired.”

He frowned, not convinced. “Something is bothering you,” he insists.

You sigh, running a hand through your hair. “It’s really nothing. Just… one of those days.”

Caesar nods slowly, though he wasn’t quite satisfied with that answer. Even though he wasn’t as close to you as he wished he was, he still had a good understanding of who you were and how you acted day to day, and you were most definitely not yourself. He knew there was more to it, but he also knew better than to push you when you weren't ready to talk.

“If you're sure….” He speaks slowly, reaching out to gently grasp one of your hands in his.

You give him a small, grateful smile. “I’m sure. Don’t worry about me.”

Both Koba and Spear call out for his attention and it forces him to withdraw from you with one last small exchange. He reaches forward for you to caress his arm and face as you usually do upon his departure, but you simply grab onto his fingers and force a smile before letting go with a simple squeeze. It may seem insignificant to anyone else there to witness it, but it was a drastic change in your usual exchange and Caesar can’t help but feel the craving for your usual affection and sentiment.

He slowly withdrew to join the hunting party, but he couldn’t shake the feeling that something was wrong. There had to be! He replayed your recent interactions in his mind, trying to piece together the puzzle. Your mood had been slowly shifting, and today it seemed to have reached a tipping point. He resolved to keep a closer eye on you, hoping to understand what was troubling you and how he could help, even if he had to force it out.

He got drawn into his usual duties, but his thoughts kept drifting back to you at every spare moment. His distractions through the morning almost cost the colony a kill or two, so he decided with a finality that he would seek you out as soon as he returned to end this contemplation…

Caesar returns to the camp after a successful hunt, carrying a bundle of fresh game on the back of his horse. He spotted you near the edge of the colony, outside the home you’ve been residing in the past few months. You sat on a wide stump, slumped forward, attempting to start a fire while muttering under your breath. Your movements were jerky and uncoordinated, your entire body clinging to a weird stiffness he had never seen you with before.

“Need help?” Caesar called slowly. He jumps down from his horse, handing it off to another ape to bring to the stables.

You look up when you hear him, your expression a mix of frustration and exhaustion. “No, I’ve got it,” you snap, striking the flint with a little more force than necessary.

Caesar raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement in his eyes. Your stubbornness was always a subject of amusement for him. “The fire… might disagree.”

You glare at him, but there was a flicker of a smile creeping along your face. “Very funny, Caesar. Maybe you should stick to hunting.”

He chuckled, kneeling beside you, reverting back to sign. “And maybe you should let me help before you set the whole colony on fire.”

You sigh, handing him the flint. “Fine. But if you can’t get it started, I’m gonna laugh.”

Caesar took the flint, his fingers brushing yours briefly. He struck it a few times with practiced hands, and soon a small flame flickered to life. He glanced at you, a triumphant smile on his face. “See? No forest fires today.”

You roll your eyes but can’t help but chuckle. “Whatever Caesar.”

Caesar sat himself beside you, enjoying the companionable silence as the two of you sat around the fire. Caesar noticed the tension in your shoulders begin to worsen as you stared silently into the flames. He hoped that whatever was bothering you would pass soon, but he couldn’t shake the feeling that something deeper was at play. For now, he decided to focus on the moment, enjoying the rare chance to have a moment of shared serenity with you.

The sun was high in the sky when you and Caesar made your way back to the center of the colony. The morning’s tension still lingered between you even after your quiet moments together, but Caesar tried to push it aside as you two approached the town center. The colony was alive with activity—apes working together to construct new shelters, children playing, and the sounds of laughter and conversation filling the air.

Caesar spotted Maurice near the center of the camp, surrounded by a group of young apes who were eagerly listening to one of his stories. You usually enjoyed these moments, often joining Maurice and the young ones, cuddling them in your lap and stroking their soft baby fur, but today you did not show any interest in joining. Some of the young apes watch as the two of you pass by, eyes fixated on you in anticipation of you joining them, but you never look their way.

Caesar had plans to bring you to the communal fire where you could linger in your reflections while still being surrounded by the camaraderie of others so you might not be left so lonely, but as soon as you came close, you were immediately approached by Leaf. “Can you help me with the herbs? I need to sort them for tonight’s meal.”

You nod, forcing a smile. “Sure, Leaf. I'll help you out.”

Caesar watched as you walked away with Leaf, your shoulders still tense even in the presence of one of your good friends. He sighed, turning his attention to the hunting party dispersed around the fire. Koba and Rocket sat together, discussing the success of the morning’s hunt, the distribution of the game, and plans for the next outing as they usually did. More often than not he made an effort to involve himself in those discussions, but lately, you had taken priority.

He took a seat amongst the others to join their discussions, but his thoughts kept drifting back to you just as it had prior that day. Koba of course noticed his distracted state, and more than once bumped him in the shoulder with a disapproving look. Although he does not verbally discuss his disapproval for his relationship with you, he makes it very clear in other ways.

It took far longer than usual. At least it felt like it did, but after finishing his discussions with the hunting party, Caesar decided to check on you. He found you and Leaf near the storage area, sorting through bundles of herbs. Your movements were quick and precise, but there was an edge to your actions that hadn’t been there that spoke volumes to anyone paying attention.

Caesar hooted gently as he approached, gaining both ladies’ attention. He places a careful hand on the small of your back as he signs, pressing his body close to yours. “How’s it going?” Caesar asked..

Leaf looked towards you both with a smile. “We’re almost done. Thanks to your help, of course.” She looks towards you with the final statement but you weren’t even looking at her to see her signs.

Leaf frowns then directs her gaze to Caesar. “What happened? She has been off all day.”

Caesar shares a look with her. “I know.” The emphasis and dramatization of his sign spoke enough for him… this has been an ongoing battle with you for days now. It just seems to finally becoming more obvious to the others.

You still didn’t look up, your focus entirely on the herbs.

Caesar frowned, the hand he had rested on your back inching to grasp your hip, encircling you in his arm. “Can we… talk?”

You finally looked up, your eyes flashing with irritation, like just his presence beside you was infuriating. You push his hand away roughly, taking a step to the side to face him head on with your glare. “What is it, Caesar? I’m busy.”

The tone shocks him. You had never spoken to him in that way… In fact, no one has ever spoken to him like that. Leaf seems to share in his shock, staring between the two of them like she was expecting Caesar to throw you to the ground in some dominant display.

He would never, of course, simply because you had no concept of what your actions or tone were implying. There was no need to assert his dominance to you when he knew you were not seeking to challenge him.

He takes a deep breath and tries to keep his tone calm. Because even though his mind reasons that you do not mean to imply what you are, the instinct in him is sparking the flame of his anger.. “I’m concerned… You’ve seemed… off lately.”

Your expression softened for a moment, almost apologetic in a way, but then you shook your head and dismissed him with a wave. “I’m fine, really. Just tired.”

Before Caesar could say much more. You place the last of the herbs from your bundle on the table. You spin around to fix him with a forced grin. “I’m going down to the river for some alone time. I’ll see you later.”

And with that, you were gone.

Caesar knew a dismissal when he heard one. No matter how badly he wished to follow you and force you to tell him what was wrong, he did not.

He wasn’t really sure what to do now… for the past few months every free moment he’s had he’s spent with you. So, now, with no further responsibilities today, he had no idea what to do with himself. It was embarrassing how lost he felt with your absence. Before your arrival he was a self-sustainable, confident leader, now here he is resorted to an insecure mess.

He watches you go. He and Leaf exchange one last glance before he huffs and turns around, heading back to the communal fire on all fours. He takes the seat he had just vacated and both Koba and Rocket give him curious looks.

“What’s wrong?” Rocket signs

Caesar sighs, gives one meaningful look towards Rocket then signs your name. Rocket, of all the apes in the colony, had the most experience with females, even over Caesar himself. It was possible the chimp may have some advice.

“What did she do?” Koba questions, his interest peaked.

“It is what I did.” Caesar emphasizes.

“What did you do?” Rocket presses.

Caesar shakes his head, hands firmly clasped together in his lap as he speaks. A far away look in his eyes, “ I do not know.”

Both apes exchange a glance about Caesar's cryptic answer, unsure if they should wait for their king to expound or question him further.

“She does not want me around her,” He signs. “She avoids me, and whenever I try to speak with her she is short and terse. And when I touch her, she pulls away. She is not herself. ”

Koba shakes his head with a scowl. “How disrespectful.” He turns away from Caesar as he signs. “You must correct her.”

“No,” Rocket disagrees, “she is upset. You have no idea what you might have done?” He turns his question into Caesar.

“No,” he insists with a grunt. “I make sure to leave her a treasure every morning, and when she awakes, I bring her her favorite berries for breakfast and a fur to keep her warm. She had even mentioned her human drink, tea, and I have managed to find the best herbs to make her one every evening. I’ve even brought her to the human places to find clothing and human things. And I’ve made sure she never has to worry about being lonesome. I’ve been trying very hard to show her my intention.”

Koba scoffs, but Rocket sits to contemplate. “Maybe…” he begins, “she is smothered.”

Caesar hoots at him in offense. “Smothered?!”

“Some females panic when a male moves too quickly with them.”

Caesar pauses in shock. That was it! That had to be it! He didn’t know why he hadn’t consulted Rocket sooner.

“You are right. Thank you Rocket.” He taps Rocket on the shoulder in thanks, pulling him forward to brush their foreheads together.

“Anytime my friend.”

***

The sun had begun to set, casting long shadows across the camp as the apes gathered for their evening meal around the communal fire. The air was filled with the sounds of chatter and laughter, a sense of camaraderie that usually brought comfort to Caesar. But tonight, his mind was elsewhere. His eyes scoured the crowd for your familiar head of hair, but you’ve yet to return from the river. He’s kept a watchful eye on the entrance to the colony and you’ve been gone all afternoon. You knew his rule about being out after dark, and you’d be cutting it close. If you weren’t back by the time supper was over, he’d go out to find you himself.

You’d be pissed about it… but it was for your own safety.

He ate his fruit rather aggressively— he was well aware— as he stared towards the entrance. In actuality his worry was slowly morphing into irritation. The complete and total disregard for his rules was an insult to his authority, whether you were romantically entangled or not.

And just when Caesar about had enough of waiting, there you were. You shuffle into the colony with a deep frown on your face and your arms wrapped tight around your body. Obviously you were not quite over your mood, but you had more than enough time to yourself and Caesar had some things to discuss with you.

He waits for you to find your seat among a group of females. One of them hands you a bowl of food and you force a smile before slowly beginning to pick at your food. Caesar watches you from a distance for a few moments before he decides to approach, hoping to bring some sort of resolution before the day ends. This had gone on long enough.

He approached you, his presence commanding attention. Before he is able to even utter a word you look up at him with a scowl.

“What now, Caesar? Can’t you see I’m trying to eat?”

The camp fell silent, all eyes turning to the unexpected confrontation. Caesar felt a surge of anger and embarrassment. It was one thing for you to voice your upset in private, but challenging him in front of the entire colony was another matter entirely. And it was completely uncalled for no matter how smothered you felt.

He growls low and deep as he says your name with a snap, his voice low and controlled to match his slowly declining mood. “I think we need to talk. Now.”

You stand up abruptly, your frustration finally boiling over. “Why? So you can tell me how off I’ve been lately? You think I don’t know I’ve been a total bitch?! Even if I didn’t know, you’ve made sure I was well aware, haven’t you?.”

The murmurs around the camp grew louder, the apes exchanging uneasy glances between each other. Caesar’s jaw tightens, his instinct to assert his dominance beginning to kick in. He straightens to his full height, his posture imposing as his nostrils flare dangerously.

His voice carries a warning as he says your name once more. “This is not the time or place.”

But you were beyond reasoning at this point, your anger had boiled over and there was not much anyone could do about it. “No, Caesar! I’m done with this! I’ve got some shit going on you don’t know about. So, I don’t need you breathing down my neck at every waking second.”

The camp was deathly silent now, every ape watching the scene unfold. Caesar’s anger flared, his authority being challenged in a way that couldn’t be ignored. He took a step forward, his eyes blazing with his pent up fury. This was not a feeling he enjoyed having directed towards you, and if you were anyone else you’d be pinned to the ground by now with an eye full of his fangs.

He growls your name once more, like it was a final warning, rumbling with suppressed fury. “Enough.”

The dominance in his stance was unmistakable, a clear signal to everyone present. And you seem to finally come to realize the gravity of your actions. You had crossed a line, and the consequences would be immediate. Sometimes you forget Caesar was not human like you, despite his human qualities, he was an animal driven by instinct. A very powerful, very dominant alpha male.

You take a step back, your anger quickly giving way to fear and regret. “Caesar, I—”

He doesn’t move, his gaze locked on yours, a silent command for submission. You’ve never seen him look so intense before, and you had never ever expected to see that look directed towards you. Not from your sweet, attentive Caesar.

The other apes watched, their respect for Caesar’s authority palpable. It was clear who was in the wrong in this altercation, there was no question.

Your shoulders slump, your defiance crumbling. You held out your hand, palm up, a final plea of submission. “I’m sorry,” you whisper, your voice barely audible. Your shame sent a rippling shiver through your body, the anticipation of his potential rejection almost unbearable.

Caesar’s expression softened slightly, but he had to remain firm. He reached out, swiping your hand gently. Your body racks with an obvious sigh of relief before you turn and flee, your face flushed with shame and tears.

The camp remains silent in your absence, the tension thick in the air. Caesar takes a deep breath, his anger slowly ebbing away. He knew that this confrontation had been necessary, but it pained him to see you in so much distress with the inability to comfort you, knowing he was the cause.

As the evening continued, the apes resumed their activities, though the atmosphere was noticeably subdued. Caesar retreated to a quiet spot, a secluded area near the edge of the forest. He needed a moment to himself, away from the prying eyes and the weight of leadership. Sitting on a fallen log, he let his thoughts drift back to the beginning of his relationship with you.

He remembered the first time you met, the cautious curiosity in your eyes, and the way you had slowly opened up to him. Your bond had grown quickly, fueled by shared human experiences and mutual respect. He recalled the laughter you two shared during your explorations of the forest and into the human city, the quiet moments by the river, and the way your presence had brought a new kind of warmth to his life.

Caesar smiled as he thought about how quickly he had fallen and how desperate he was to express that to you when he first came to the realization. It took you some time to take notice of the little things he did to show his care for you. The fresh berries he’d bring by each morning, knowing they were your favorite. The abundant number of furs he left outside your home every time they came available to him. He knew how susceptible you’d be to the cold in the coming months. Then the times he’d steer away from his usual group of apes to sit with you by the fire and listen to your stories about the human world. The way he would gently brush the hair out of your face when you were deep in thought. He treasured the way you’d blush at him as his fingers brushed against the soft skin of your cheek. Each gesture was a silent promise of his affection and commitment.

But as he reflected on these moments, a nagging doubt began to creep in. Had he done something to cause this rift between you? Had he been too forward as Rocket suggested? He was under the impression that you felt the same as him by the way you gravitated towards him and touched him. Maybe he had misread your actions because what else would justify your sudden anger and animosity.

He thought about the past few days, the subtle changes in your behavior, and the way you became more withdrawn. He had tried to be patient, to give you space, but it seemed the space he gave was not enough. The more he thought about it, the more frustrated he became. He had done everything he could to show his love and support, and yet, it felt like you were pushing him away. All he wanted from you was a straight answer.

Caesar clenched his fists, his frustration bubbling to the surface. It wasn’t just about his authority being challenged in front of the colony; it was about the hurt and confusion it brought on. He had always prided himself on being a fair and understanding leader, but this situation with you was testing his patience in ways he hadn’t anticipated.

He took a deep breath, trying to calm the storm of emotions inside him. He knew that getting angry wouldn’t solve anything. He needed to find a way to reach you, to understand what was really going on. If you did not want him the way he wanted you… it might devastate him in the moment but he would respect your wishes. For now, all he could do was wait and hope that you would come to him when you were ready.

As the night grew darker, Caesar’s thoughts remained with you. He headed back to the colony to find the camp quiet, the only sounds being the gentle rustling of leaves and the occasional call of a nocturnal creature. He gave a nod to Luca and the other guard standing watch then ascended to his home high above the trees. The glow of the fire still burning in his hut lit the path leading to his home and he paused at the entrance to glance out into the dark forest, hoping that when you retreated you did not leave the safety of colony grounds.

He did not have to worry for long though. When he stepped into his home, he took one glance towards his nest to find a mess of furs he did not remember leaving there… as he approached he noticed the soft quivering of the lump hidden beneath them

He rushes to slip into his nest, reaching out a hand towards what he knew for fact had to be you.

The whisper of your name cuts through the silence, his voice laced with shock and concern. “Are you ok?”

The furs go flying, followed by a mess of limbs as you scramble towards him, quite literally attaching yourself to his front like a babe.

“I’m so so sorry, Caesar,” you bawl, your voice muffled against his chest. “Please forgive me. I didn’t mean it.”

Caesar’s heart aches at the sound of your distress, his earlier frustration melting away. He wrapped his arms around you, holding you close. He tips back slowly, bringing you with him until you’re both lying together in the comfort of his nest as he holds you in his arms “Shh, it’s alright,” he murmurs, stroking your hair gently, holding your head close to his chest as your tears soak through his fur. “All is forgiven.”

He could feel your pain and regret, and it pained him to see you so distressed like this. He wanted to demand an explanation, to understand what had driven you to such a drastic state, but he knew that now was not the time. You needed his support, not his questions— as you had so kindly pointed out earlier that evening.

As your sobs begin to subside, Caesar continues to hold you, his touch gentle and reassuring as his hands skate up and down your back. When you finally seemed more composed, you pulled back slightly, and he got a full look at your tear-streaked face.

His voice rumbles gently with the sound of your name, and you cling to him once more, shoving your face against his warm collar. “What's wrong? Please tell me.”

You take a shaky breath, keeping your face hidden against his neck. “It’s stupid,” You whine.

“Not stupid if it… bothers you.” He speaks as soft as he can muster, and you cling tighter to him in your distress.

“It’s… it’s— I’m on my period.” you pause as if expecting him to question what it is, but before he can inquire you keep going, rapidly trying to justify and explain. “Every month I bleed really bad and I cramp. My stomach feels like it’s being stabbed over and over, and this time it feels so much worse for some reason! And then on top of it all it makes me so irrationally angry and irritated at everyone and everything. Most of the time it’s for no reason, but I-I just can’t help it sometimes. So I’m sorry Caesar! It’s my fault.”

“Your cycle?” Caesar confirms with an inquisitive scrunch to his brows. Female chimps had a cycle as well, but growing up he had heard the jokes about the horrors of the human female's cycle… human media often highlighted the bad side effects. The same ones you had just told him.

You nod, all pitiful like. “I didn’t want to bother you.”

Caesar scoffed Into your hair, then drifted his hand to your abdomen, gently pressing down. “It hurts here?” he asked.

You nod again, nuzzling closer with a quiet whine. “Real bad.”

Caesar purrs, a soothing sound that rumbled deep in his chest. He tucks you in closer, his hand rubbing gentle circles on your belly. “You should’ve told me... I would have held you all day.”

You managed a small, grateful smile, your body relaxing against his. “I wanted to be tough.”

“Why be tough… when I am here… to take care of you?” He reaches over you to grab one of the loose furs, then pulls it closer to drape over the both of you. You two had yet to share a nest for the night, but now was as good a time as any to start.

You close your eyes as you finally allow yourself to relax completely in his arms. “I don’t deserve you ”

He held you close, his heart filled with a renewed sense of commitment. The relief he felt knowing it wasn’t his forwardness to be causing your bad mood was a weight off his shoulders.

A = Aftercare (what they’re like after sex)

AFTERCARE IS A MUST! Incredibly giving during and after sex, will pamper you so good. He won't really talk, but his actions speak up loudly. Masaging you in your sore places, kissing your neck, giving you water, cleaning you, then giving you a cuddle right after is his little go-to aftercare routine.

B = Body part (their favorite body part of theirs and also their partner’s)

For himself, he doesn't have much of a favourite, but if he were to choose, his hands. How much he can do to you with just a touch of his hand. Loves to really feel you, caress your whole body and face, squish your sides and hold your hips as you bounce on his cock.

He loves anything squishy and smooth on their partner. Tummy, ass, tits/pecs etc. He also loves your neck. Smelling your unique human scent, biting it, licking it, nibbiling it>> (in Caesars eyes).

C = Cum (anything to do with cum, basically)

He prefers coming inside, thinking of marking you with his seed. He'll always ask before he comes though, as he knows in human culture, not everyone wants to get creampied. He also cums a big amount, a pool gushing out of you each time you get bred.

If you're scared to get cummed in he'll love to see your stomach and chest covered in his white sticky cum.

D = Dirty secret (pretty self explanatory, a dirty secret of theirs)

Definitely owned(stole from a cabinet when he was bored) and fapped to porn magazines back when he lived with Will and Caroline. He doesn't own any anymore, as he doesn't use much human products. Plus, he has you now ;3

E = Experience (how experienced are they? do they know what they’re doing?)

Not as experienced as you think BUT A VERY FAST LEARNER. He definitely has some knowledge of the human anatomy beforehand so he'll know what to do!

F = Favorite position (this goes without saying)

Missionary. Aye man he might be an ape king but he still old. Just loves getting a good look at you, and its such a comforting position for both. Vanilla and basic but theres a reason its popular.

Another would be you on top, riding him. Not as taxing on his joints, but also can get a full view of your body. How his dick slides into you, how your boobs/cock bounces as you went up and down... He just loves to give you pleasure and physically seeing it.

G = Goofy (are they more serious in the moment? are they humorous? etc.

Quite serious, and doesn't really joke during it either. He thinks sex is a very pure thing but If you do pop a joke, he'll definitely give you a chuckle as he looks at you adoringly.

H = Hair (how well groomed are they? Do they like hair on their partners? etc.

His fur is softer than you think. He's definitely quite softer than the others as well, trying to maintain a good fur routine as he doesn't want to give you rashes or anything during sex.

He doesn't mind about hair on the partner as well. Shaved, not shaved, trimmed, don't matter to him, he's putting his dick in you.

I = Intimacy (how are they during the moment? the romantic aspect)

Incredibly romantic. So giving and loving throughout it all. He doesn't talk much, and doesn't really moan either (mostly pleasured grunts), but his actions speak so much louder than words. He'll look into your eyes, caress you, and will DEFINITELY pull your head in for the forehead touch😭💞

J = Jack off (masturbation headcanon)

Doesn't masturbate often, but he prefers having you with him when he does. He LOVES mutual masturbation, you getting off, gets him off.

When he does masturbate alone, hes quiet and goes slow. Gripping his bed as he comes, thinking of filling you up.

K = Kink (one or more of their kinks)

Breeding. Thinking of giving you, a human, his kids gets him all hot and bothered. Whether or not you can have kids, hell still love to fantasize it as he fucks you. Going into positions that has a higher chance of pregnancy, loves getting in deep and cumming in deep, caressing your stomach afterwards after, and even the day after he feeds you like you were pregnant🥺

Praise. Being a king can be hard. Giving him compliments, telling him hes making you feel good, telling him how amazing of a partner he is will give him butterflies. He kind of misses his parents and grandfather. How they were so kind and always praise him. He'll MELT from both your kindness and a bit of nostalgia.

L = Location (favorite places to do the do)

His/your nest. Intimate, private, comfortable, what more can he want. He wants you to be comfortable and laying on the ground with a bunch of sharp sticks and rocks anywhere isn't ideal.

M = Motivation (what turns them on, gets them going)

You in the mood, gets him in the mood. As an Ape, he does have a keen sense of smell. If he senses your arousal, instant boner. A human loving him in such a deep, private and erotic way gets him so horny.

Also when your enjoying yourself and physically making it noticable, gets his cock ACHING. Your moans, grunts, shouting of his name, your body shaking in pelasure gets him GOINGGG.

N = No (something they wouldn’t do, turn offs)

Hes a gentle and loving man, below all his stoicism, so he wouldn't do anything that could hurt you. So sorry BDSM lovers :(

I wouldn't think he'd be interested in exhibition or anything involving such a private moment being out for everyone to see. You are his, and hes not really comfortable with others seeing such a vulnerable state for both of you.

O = Oral (preference in giving or receiving, skill, etc.)

He has no preference with giving or receiving, but again it he had to choose, giving. He just loves lapping around your heat, slurping up all your juices, and holding your shaking legs stable. He'll be sucking up your sensitive spot then going to nibble your inner thighs.

When receiving, he loves to look into your eyes, and caress your hair. He'll grabs your head oh so gently and help you keep a steady pace. He enjoys it so much but still keeps alert if your jaw starts to hurt. His cock is quite big so good luck 🤞

P = Pace (are they fast and rough? slow and sensual? etc.)

Slow and senual for the most part. Especially at first, with you being human and all. Quite fragile compared to a chimp but even after that, he likes to milk every moment of this intimate practice with you. Again, he is quite serious in this matter so he likes being in the moment.

Howeveeerrr, if you ask, he'll happily let you indulge yourself with some fast and hard fucking. Its not like he doesn't like it, he does, its just he prefers sex to be more romantic.

Q = Quickie (their opinions on quickies, how often, etc.)

He'll be open to it. Not his favourite but he understand that you both have responsibilities in the colony and need them done, so a little quickie to satisfy you both wouldn't hurt.

Its mostly in the mornings where a good quikie will happen. Waking up to get ready for todays task, but your still horny? He'll smell your arousal and give you a quick orgasm by putting his thick cock into you while stroking your sensitive bits.

R = Risk (are they game to experiment? do they take risks? etc.)

Not really but again, open to it. This is Caesar the ape king, we're talking about. He's taken so many risks in his life, and sometimes he just wants something loving, familiar and stable, especially in his sex life with his amazing mate. He'll be hesitant with experimenting but he knows he can trust you.

S = Stamina (how many rounds can they go for? how long do they last?)

If in a comfortable position, he can go all night long. Again, grown ass ape we're talking about.

Doesnt last too long when it comes to you. Maybe like 10-20 minutes hes already pumping hot cream deep inside you.

T = Toys (do they own toys? do they use them? on a partner or themselves?)

Doesn't as its quite hard to find (and maintain). If you guys actually have one for some reason, it'll definitely spice up the mutual masturbation time.

U = Unfair (how much they like to tease)

Not a teaser. He loves to give you what you want, what brings you the most pleasure. Its his duty as both a king and a mate to keep his 'subject' happy.

V = Volume (how loud they are, what sounds they make, etc.)

Vocally not loud. Grunts and heavy breathing mostly, with a couple of moans here and there.

W = Wild card (a random headcanon for the character)

Doesn't do it often, but loves to stay inside of you after sex. Keeping his cum plugged in deep all night long, and just being attached makes him feel so warm.

X = X-ray (let’s see what’s going on under those clothes)

5 inches but VERY girthy🙏

Y = Yearning (how high is their sex drive?)

Normal ish. Around 6/10. You can turn him on quite quickly though.

Z = Zzz (how quickly they fall asleep afterwards)

You quickly walk inside as you ignore the stinging pain in your foot, you smile seeing all the stores even though they're all run down and destroyed, it gives you some much needed nostalgia. Laughing as you happily run through the mall looking for clothes, finally seeing a clothing store you stop running and jog swiftly inside the store. Scavenging around the abandoned store wasn't easy, since so much of the clothes and shelves were knocked down and taken. You huff slightly annoyed finding only three shirts that were slightly worn down by time.

After a few minutes of searching, you finally found a few pairs of pants, some shoes, and a good amount of undergarments. You smiled while looking at the pile of clothes you had found, but the sound of bottles and buckets being knocked to the ground made you freeze up as your heart beat quickened. Slowly getting up from the ground leaving the pile of clothes you had collected next to you neatly folded. Cautiously walking out of the clothing store and towards the continuous sounds of fallen bottles being knocked around.

You stopped in front of a small restaurant and walked inside, "Hello, Is anyone here?" I called out feeling unsure. The sudden fall of a shelf makes me turn around in fear, only to see a small baby orangutan backing away and letting out a small sound of fear. Your eyes soften as at the sight as you let out a sigh of relief; gently kneel down down towards the baby orangutan "Hey, there little one. Where's your mom?" You ask while staying still so as to not scare the poor thing even more.

Gladly the baby orangutan softly hoots as he happily walks over towards you with his arms stretched outwards. The second you copy him, he immediately latches onto my chest softly cooing. You smile as you wrap your arms around him carefully getting up from the ground. "I guess you and I are both lost. But not anymore I found you and you found me; I'll do my best in taking care of you." You say sweetly while leaving the small restaurant heading back to the clothing store humming a song for the baby orangutan.