Heartstopper: The Life Afterwards

Nick's POV

[WARNING: This update contains mention of body image issues and eating disorders]

When Charlie left for the shower I knew that he wasn't going to have a pleasant shower experience. Not that people should, but...because of his eating disorder and body image issues, he doesn't like to be nude.

When he leaves I immediately jump to his drawer. I leave spare clothes here for when I stay. I get changed and as always, do my little scam around the room. I don't know why but I love looking around his room and staring at his posters.

I first begin with the drum kit. Probably my favourite spot because it reminds me of the night I first came to his house. Where my feelings for Charlie surfaced all at once and I left in a bit of a shock. I regretted leaving like that but the main thing is that I got to hug him because he looked so cuddly wrapped up in his blanket.

After looking at the pictures and posters on his wall, most of them being of me and him, I sit back down on the bed and check my phone. I have received a message from my mum.

"Hey Nicky, I have received a message from your dad saying that he shall be coming next week for your going away party. Also, your surprise for Charlie has arrived. Are you both coming back here this evening?❤️"

A smile creeps on my face. The thought of my dad coming round for my going away party is big news. The whole family is going to be there, so it's going to be a little bit awkward, but it means a lot to me that he's coming.
The second, my surprise for Charlie. I haven't even told him that I had got this for him, well us, but he is going to love it. I plan to give it to him next week. My leaving party is on Friday, I am moving to Uni on Saturday, to be completely ready to begin term the following Monday.

"I am glad that dad is going to be there. Fingers crossed he makes it though! I'm very happy that they have come. Can you please put it somewhere discreet in my room for my please. Me and Charlie are coming over for tea❤️"

"Okay Nicky. I'm sure you're dad won't let you down. You know you given him his wake up call. See you soon❤️"

As I read my mums message, Charlie walks through the door. He is smiling at me but I know something is wrong. I give him a comforting smile and open my arms out for Charlie. He immediately walks through the room and leans straight into my arms. "Come on Char, talk to me?"
"I...just struggled a little."
"I know babe! You are getting stronger though and I'm proud of you, I love you!"
"I love you too, babe"

A smile crawls on my face as the sound of him calling me "babe". I said it to him the other night to comfort him but I think we have reached that stage in our relationship where silly nicknames can be used in certain situations. This is definitely one of them.