Aiden [Book Two]

4

Nathan smiled, watching his boyfriend bundle back through into the bedroom with another armful of snacks, barging the door to get in. He'd really thought about this date night.

Aiden carried a box of lemon-drizzle muffins and a bar of chocolate as he kicked the door shut. He must have raided the store on the way home from school.

After meeting Miss Vance, Reid was careful with the smaller boy. He took him back to class, walked him to the store and then home, so there was no chance of Aiden getting overwhelmed alone.

The orange-haired boy insisted it was unnecessary, but Nathan was glad he had company. His boyfriend could be fragile after a panic attack and needed help.

When he got home, the elder was sleeping, still propped up on the mountain of pillows. Even with his eyes shut, it was clear the brunette's shoulder was uncomfortable.

Because of the hospital check-up, and the doctor performing mild functionality tests, the muscles become sore and irritated. So, as Nathan always did in those painful moments, he rested and waited for Aiden's return.

They had dinner around the table with his parents, where it became more obvious that the older boy was in pain. He struggled to follow any conversation and spent most of the time holding an ice pack instead of eating. Luckily, the redhead noticed and was more than happy to feed his lover little mouthfuls until he was full.

The group chatted about the successful appointment and what physiotherapy entailed before breaking off. It was date night, and Aiden wanted to get cosy with his boyfriend.

He placed the snacks on the bedside table next to two fresh caramel lattes. The elder wasn't partial to sweet drinks, but considering the effort the younger put into everything, he would drink and enjoy it.

Nathan stayed quiet as his love came close, carefully climbing onto the bed and sitting over his legs. He loved when the younger boy clambered into the intimate chest-to-chest position, where he could see his pretty face.

When the orange-haired boy didn't wear make-up, not only was the faint scar on show but also the tender red flush of his cheeks. By the end of every day, Aiden had a natural blush that accompanied his tiredness.

It was another of his unique little charms.

Aiden's caramel eyes glittered with flecks of gold as he shuffled closer, one hand wrapping around Nathan's neck as the other brushed his injured shoulder. He was going to ask the question he asked every day since surgery.

"How does it feel?"

The boy's touch was always gentle and welcome; the brunette was happy with the innocent intent. Happy enough to break away from years of routine, and push through the hurt and speak.

For years, he stayed mute, unable to open up through the pain and anxiety. Even with his boyfriend, he struggled to communicate when his pain levels were significant.

But things were changing. He was becoming stronger and more resilient; thanks to the love of the Lewis family. It was still difficult, but he had to show his progress.

"N-not too bad," Nathan replied, placing his hand over the younger boy's. "Need a break."

Aiden didn't hesitate as his fingers made purchase on the velcro strap. His other hand carefully slipped inside the sling, stroking down the warm skin until he reached the boy's elbow.

The elder remained unfazed when the sling broke, unlike before. He knew he was safe in the hands of the younger boy, who wouldn't let any harm come to him.

Slowly, the orange-haired boy lowered his boyfriend's arm, observing his facial expressions and body language the entire time. He took in every minute twitch, supporting the injured limb until it landed in Nathan's lap.