Half a heart ( Book 1)

Chapter 3

⚠️Tw: anxiety,dizziness, eating problems, embarrassed, exhausted⚠️

Nick's POV:

I pulled my phone out and shot my mum a quick text. Turning to Charlie, I asked, "Would you like to come home with me? I have a free period, and my mum's coming to pick me up now."

He looked at me and nodded. After Charlie drank some water and ate a snack, we headed to the front office where my mum was waiting for us.

I still had my arm around Charlie since he was a little dizzy. "Hello boys," my mum said, looking at Charlie. "So, you're the boy Nick has been telling me about all day," she exclaimed, making me hide my face in embarrassment.

"Nick, you've been talking about me?" Charlie giggled.

"Just a little," I laughed too. My mum signed us out, and we headed to the car.

"Ms. Nelson, could you please drop me at my house?" Charlie requested.

"Of course, Charlie," she replied.

The drive was silent but comfortable. Charlie seemed to move slightly closer to me, and soon I felt his soft curls on my shoulder.

I glanced over and saw Charlie resting his head on my shoulder, looking adorable. I couldn't help myself and started playing with his curls, hoping he didn't notice.

"Nick, do you have a thing for my hair or something?" he asked, giggling again.

I chuckled, "Maybe I do. Your curls are just so soft."

"That's sweet of you," he said, a blush spreading across his cheeks. "You make me feel really comfortable, Nick. I don't know why, but I trust you."

"You can trust me, Charlie," I replied, feeling that warm sensation in my stomach again.

"Nick, why do you keep covering your face?" he asked. "I like your eyes-they're very pretty. Like you."

I was at a loss for words, so I simply smiled. He seriously is such a sweet person, and I think I have a crush on him.

We arrived at his house, and I walked Charlie to his door. "Text me if you need anything, okay?" I said.

"Thanks, Nick. I will. And...thanks for taking care of me today," Charlie said softly.

"Anytime, Charlie. I mean it," I replied, watching him head inside. I was sad to see him go, but I hoped to see him tomorrow at school.

"So, Charlie," Mum said as we drove off, giving me a look as if she thought we were more than friends.

"Mummm, GOD, no. Charlie and I are just friends," I whined.

"Well, Charlie seems like a very lovely young man. I've never seen you smile so much around one person. I think there's a very obvious spark between you two," she said, glancing at me with a knowing smile.

I sighed, but couldn't help smiling too. "He is really nice, Mum. And...yeah, maybe there is."

"Just be honest with yourself, Nick. If you like him, let him know," she advised.

"Thanks, Mum. I'll think about it," I said, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. The drive home was filled with thoughts of Charlie and what might happen next...