nick and charlie: love is the strongest force

chapter twenty three

Nick and Charlie spent the rest of the day together, the tension from earlier slowly melting away as they enjoyed each other’s company. They ordered pizza, watched movies, and talked about anything but the worries that had been weighing on Nick.

The next morning, Nick woke up feeling a little more at ease. He had another session with Geoff later in the week, and Charlie’s unwavering support made him feel stronger. They got ready for school, the usual morning routine providing a sense of normalcy.

At school, things were mostly back to routine. Nick and Charlie were walking to form when a teacher approached them.

“Nick, Charlie, can I speak to you both for a moment?” she asked.

They exchanged a glance and nodded, following her into an empty classroom.

“I wanted to let you know that we’ve had a discussion with Ben about his behavior. It’s been made clear to him that any further harassment will result in severe consequences,” the teacher explained. “If you experience any more issues, please let us know immediately.”

Nick felt a weight lift off his shoulders. Knowing that the school was taking the situation seriously was a relief.

“Thank you,” Charlie said, squeezing Nick’s hand.

After their talk with the teacher, they headed to form. They were greeted by their classmates, some giving Nick sympathetic looks. It was clear the rumors had spread, but no one said anything outright.

As the day went on, Nick found himself slipping back into the routine. He and Charlie managed to steal a few moments together between classes, their shared glances and smiles keeping Nick grounded.

During lunch, they found a quiet spot outside to sit. Nick picked at his food, still feeling a little off from everything that had happened.

“Do you want to talk about it?” Charlie asked gently.

Nick shook his head. “Not right now. I’m just trying to focus on getting through the day.”

Charlie nodded in understanding. “Whatever you need, I’m here.”

They finished lunch in companionable silence, and the rest of the school day passed uneventfully. When the final bell rang, Nick felt a sense of accomplishment. He had made it through the day without any major incidents.

After school, they headed to rugby practice. Nick was still a bit apprehensive, but having Charlie by his side made it easier. They changed in the locker room, Nick keeping close to Charlie as they got ready.

On the field, Nick felt a sense of normalcy return. The physical exertion was a welcome distraction from his thoughts, and he found himself getting lost in the game. Charlie was as supportive as ever, encouraging Nick and keeping an eye on him.

By the time practice ended, Nick was exhausted but in a good way. The familiar routine and the endorphins from exercise helped lift his spirits.

They headed back to the locker room to change. Nick felt a pang of anxiety as he remembered the last time he was here, but he pushed it down, focusing on the present.

As they got dressed, Charlie gave Nick a reassuring smile. “You did great today.”

“Thanks,” Nick replied, feeling a bit more confident.

When they got back to Nick’s house, they found Sarah waiting for them. She had a concerned look on her face, but she didn’t say anything as they headed upstairs to Nick’s room.

Once they were settled in Nick’s room, Charlie turned to him. “How are you feeling?”

Nick shrugged. “Better, I think. Today wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be.”

Charlie smiled. “That’s good to hear. I’m proud of you.”

They cuddled on the bed, the familiar comfort of Charlie’s presence soothing Nick’s lingering anxiety.

After a while, Nick spoke up. “Geoff suggested I start keeping a journal. To write down my feelings and make a list of safe people I can talk to.”

Charlie nodded. “That sounds like a good idea. Have you started yet?”

Nick shook his head. “Not yet. I guess I’ve been avoiding it.”

“Well, whenever you’re ready, I’ll be here to help,” Charlie said softly.

Nick smiled, feeling a sense of gratitude wash over him. “Thanks, Charlie. For everything.”

“Always,” Charlie replied, giving Nick a gentle kiss on the forehead.

The next few weeks passed in a blur. Nick continued his sessions with Geoff, finding them increasingly helpful. He started going back to school regularly, feeling more at ease with each passing day. Charlie’s support never wavered, and Nick found himself slowly but surely reclaiming his sense of normalcy.

One Saturday morning, Nick woke up in Charlie’s arms. He snuggled closer, feeling a sense of contentment.

“Morning,” Charlie murmured, his voice still heavy with sleep.

“Morning,” Nick replied, smiling.

As they lay there, Nick felt a familiar stirring of desire. It was a strange but welcome sensation, a sign that he was healing.

Charlie noticed the change in Nick’s demeanor. “You okay?” he asked gently.

“Yeah,” Nick replied, his voice a bit shaky. “I think I’m ready. For other things, I mean.”

Charlie’s eyes widened in surprise, but he quickly composed himself. “Are you sure?”

Nick nodded, though there was a flicker of uncertainty in his eyes. “Yeah, I’m sure.”

Charlie kissed him softly, their lips moving together in a familiar dance. The kisses grew deeper, more passionate, but Charlie kept checking in, making sure Nick was okay.

When they finally pulled apart, both of them were breathing heavily. Charlie looked into Nick’s eyes, searching for any sign of discomfort.

“We’ll take it slow,” Charlie promised. “No pressure. Just tell me if you’re uncomfortable.”

Nick nodded, his heart swelling with love and gratitude. He knew he had a long road ahead, but with Charlie by his side, he felt ready to face whatever challenges came his way.

A/N
I'm back bitches