I'm not me

Part 9

"So, what do you think of them all?" Charlie asked, their voice tinged with curiosity and a hint of excitement.

"I love them all," Nick replied sincerely, his eyes scanning over the various outfits Charlie had tried on. "They're very different, which is great to see."

Charlie smiled, pleased by Nick's positive response. "Do you have a favourite one?" they inquired playfully, already suspecting the answer but wanting to hear it from Nick.

Nick hesitated for a moment, choosing his words carefully. "I wouldn't mind coming home from work and you were wearing the leather skirt, my love," he admitted, trying to sound casual despite the warmth in his voice.

"Maybe, but nothing more than a kissing session," Charlie teased with a playful smirk, knowing exactly where Nick's mind had gone.

Nick chuckled softly, his cheeks tinged with a light blush. "Fair enough," he replied, unable to hide his affectionate grin.

"I'm going to go change. I'll be back," Charlie said softly as they began to rise from the couch, their movements graceful and deliberate.

Nick reached out, gently taking Charlie's hand before they could move too far. "Charlie, please wait. You don't need to change, okay? I just wanted to know how you're feeling," he said, his voice filled with gentle concern and sincerity.

Charlie paused, feeling touched by Nick's caring gesture. They nodded and settled back onto the couch, snuggling into the comforting embrace of Nick's arms. "I feel good. I don't know how to explain it, but good," Charlie replied honestly, their voice reflecting a sense of contentment and peace.

"That's good to hear, my love," Nick murmured, pressing a soft kiss to Charlie's forehead. "Can I get a pronoun check?"

"Of course you can, Nick," Charlie responded warmly, their eyes meeting Nick's with gratitude. "I appreciate you asking. Still they/them."

Nick nodded, a gentle smile on his lips. "Got it," he said softly, his voice filled with acceptance and support. He squeezed Charlie's hand gently, reaffirming his commitment to understanding and honoring their identity.

Charlie leaned in and gently kissed Nick's cheek before replying, "Anytime, Char. I just want to make sure we're on the same page. Please tell me if I do something that makes you uncomfortable or even if your pronouns change throughout the day, okay? I will do my very best."

"Thank you, Nicky. I love you very much. However, if we are done, I would like to change," Charlie said with a warm smile, feeling grateful for Nick's understanding and support.

"I love you more, babe," Nick replied affectionately, his heart swelling with love for Charlie. "Yes, the conversation is done. Would you like to watch a movie afterwards or go on a walk with Nells?"

"Let's go on a walk," Charlie decided with a smile, excited about the idea of enjoying some fresh air and time outdoors with Nick and their beloved pet.

"Sounds great, I'll go get Nellie ready" Nick agreed happily, rising from the couch and extending his hand to Charlie.

Together, they headed towards the door, ready to embark on a peaceful walk together, enjoying each other's company and the beauty of the world around them.

About two hours later, as the weather had a slow change the couple had decided to slowly get Nellie ready to head home.
"This walk was nice, Nick. It was good getting out of the house," Charlie remarked with a contented sigh, feeling the pleasant fatigue that came from a leisurely stroll.

"It was, wasn't it? I think Nellie liked it as well. Should we head home?" Nick asked, glancing down at their dog who trotted happily alongside them.

"Yes, please. I want a nap," Charlie replied with a soft chuckle, leaning comfortably into Nick's side.

"Ok, grandpa," Nick teased playfully, a grin spreading across his face. However, his smile faltered as he caught Charlie's expression. "Oh, fuck! I'm sorry, Charlie. I meant to say you're such an old soul."

"It's okay, Nick. It was going to happen sooner or later. Thanks for your correction," they replied, their tone gentle and reassuring.

Nick nodded, relieved that Charlie took it in stride. He wrapped an arm around Charlie's shoulders, pulling them close as they continued their walk home.

Once they arrived home, Charlie headed straight for their favourite spot in the living room, sinking into the sofas comfort while Nick attended to Nellie's post-walk routine.

Nick returned to find Charlie already fast asleep, their peaceful expression a testament to the relaxation the walk had brought. He smiled softly, admiring Charlie's serene demeanor, and quietly fetched a cozy blanket. Gently draping it over Charlie, he ensured they were comfortably covered.

Wanting to keep the atmosphere serene, Nick lowered the volume of the TV to a soft murmur, careful not to disturb Charlie's slumber. He settled into the couch nearby, watching over Charlie with a fondness that warmed his heart. As he sat there, Nick reflected on the day they'd shared, and starting planing what he could make for dinner.

Charlie stirred awake around 4:30 pm, blinking sleepily as they called out, "Nicky?"

"I'm right here, baby. How did you sleep?" Nick responded gently, his voice filled with warmth and concern.

"Good, thanks. I'm hungry. Is there anything planned for dinner?" Charlie asked, their stomach rumbling softly.

"I've been looking, but I can't decide. Want to help?" Nick suggested, a hint of uncertainty in his tone.

"Sure, but I can't move," Charlie replied with a soft chuckle, noticing that Nellie had settled comfortably on their legs.

Nick smiled warmly at the sight. "Oh, Nellie, you're such a good dog," he praised, knowing how intuitive Nellie had become over the years in understanding Charlie's needs and emotions.

As Nellie started to shift, Nick gently intervened, saying, "Don't move, Nells, it's okay." He walked over to Charlie and carefully pulled them into his arms, relishing the closeness they shared.

"Oh, the taco salad looks good, but I don't want the corn shells in mine," Charlie mused, scanning the options on the screen.

"Easy as, love. We have everything in the fridge. Would you like to help me?" Nick offered, knowing Charlie enjoyed cooking together.

"I think I might stay here with Nells," Charlie decided with a soft smile, enjoying the comforting weight of their furry companion.

"All good, love. I'm just going to stay here a bit longer as it doesn't take long to make. Is dinner at 5:30 okay?" Nick confirmed, pressing a kiss to Charlie's forehead.

"Yep, it's okay. Means I can have cuddles," Charlie replied contentedly, nuzzling closer to Nick.

"Sure does, baby," Nick agreed warmly, holding Charlie close as they relaxed together, cherishing the simple joy of being together in their cozy home.

Once dinner was ready, Nellie sensed the moment and moved to Charlie, nudging their face gently with her nose to let them know it was time to eat.

"Thank you, Nellie," Charlie chuckled softly, scratching behind her ears affectionately.

"Looks delicious, Nick. Thank you so much," Charlie said gratefully, their eyes lighting up as they took in the spread Nick had prepared.

"Not a problem at all. I hope you had a good day," Nick replied warmly, setting down his own plate and joining Charlie at the table.

"I did, thank you," Charlie affirmed, smiling warmly at Nick. They reached out and squeezed his hand gently, feeling a rush of gratitude for the thoughtful meal and the comforting presence of their partner.

As they ate, conversation flowed easily between them, filled with shared stories of their day and plans for the upcoming week. Nellie sat contentedly nearby, occasionally looking up at them with her soulful eyes, seemingly content in the presence of her beloved humans.