Evermore :||: Nick & Charlie

Chapter 24: All of this is Temporary

Nick's POV

It's Halloween now which means it's officially been two weeks since Charlie's been away. I've only been able to see him three times, but I know that's what's best. He needs this time to heal himself and I want to give him all of the space he needs to do that. I miss him a lot, but now we've also started calling.

He calls a few times a week, which is really nice because sometimes I just miss hearing his soft voice that somehow never fails to put me at ease. I hate all the rules that calling comes with since he's not allowed to have his phone. The rules are mostly okay, but the thought of someone sitting next to Charlie the whole time while he's on the phone with me makes me feel slightly weirded out, but I understand.

I did finally talk to the Paris Squad and they were really understanding, just like Charlie said they'd be. I keep them updated on Charlie, but Tao won't stop asking if he can see him. Charlie and I haven't talked about other people coming to see him yet, so I'm not really sure where he stands on that.

Tonight, however, I was invited to Harry's halloween party. As much as I hate the guy, I really need to do something to get my mind off of Charlie. I decided to invite the rest of the Paris Squad too just so I'd have to interact with Harry as little as possible. Tonight is about having fun, that's all that matters.

After I finish getting ready, I text the Paris Squad group chat.  

Nick: Please tell me you guys are still coming to this party tonight

Nick: I CANNOT be hounded by Harry all night

My phone is silent for a few minutes. I start to think that maybe none of them are gonna show up. I mean, I know a party like this is the furthest thing from their scene, especially since it's hosted by Harry of all people, but I'm really hoping they-

My phone dings, making me look down.

Tao: Yep! Elle and I are headed over now!

Tao: Also you owe me big time for this

Imogen: I'm already here!!

Isaac: hopefully i'll find a quiet place to read

Sahar: At a party Isaac? Good luck

Sahar: See you guys there

Darcy: Tara and I just pulled up

Darcy: Super pumped but sooooo wish this wasn't Harry's party

Tao: Ew! Don't remind me

I smile down at my phone before getting up and leaving my room. My mom ends up driving me as I've yet to pass my driver's test. That's another thing I've been trying to work on to distract myself, but I really don't think I should be driving around while thinking about my boyfriend in a mental health clinic.

When I finally get to the party, there's so many people here I start to get slightly overwhelmed. The last time I went to a party like this, I thought I was straight, well, sort of. I knew I liked Charlie, but I didn't know how strong my feelings really were until we ended up kissing that night.

Honestly, I think that was one of the best days of my life.

All of the days I spent with Charlie are the best days.

Okay, now I sound like a sappy idiot.

I came here to get my mind off of Charlie, not to sit here and reminisce and wish he was here.

I shake the thoughts out of my head and go inside, instantly met with the smell of stale beer and sweat as people are dancing around to the blaring music. I push my way through the absurd amount of people and head straight for the drinks. Usually, I wouldn't drink at a party like this, but I have a lot to not think about.