nick and charlie: love is the strongest force

chapter fourty seven

After a few days filled with laughter and warmth, Nick and Charlie found themselves sprawled on the floor of Nick’s room, the familiar glow of the TV illuminating their faces. The sounds of "Super Smash Bros." filled the air as they battled it out on-screen, fingers flying over the controllers.

Nick grinned, his competitive spirit shining through as he expertly maneuvered his character, landing hits and dodging Charlie’s attacks with practiced ease. “Come on, Charlie! You can do better than that!” he teased, unable to hide his excitement.

Charlie pouted playfully, his brows furrowing in concentration. “I’m trying! You’re just too good at this!” He focused intensely on the screen, his character barely avoiding Nick’s incoming attack.

With a triumphant laugh, Nick launched a final blow, sending Charlie’s character flying off the stage. “Yes! Victory!” Nick exclaimed, pumping his fist in the air. “That’s what you get for underestimating me!”

“Okay, okay, you won this round,” Charlie admitted, rolling his eyes but unable to suppress his grin. “But just wait! I’ll come back stronger!” He quickly restarted the game, determination etched on his face.

As the match began again, the playful banter continued, the air filled with laughter and friendly rivalry. Each time Nick landed a hit, he would erupt into joyous laughter, his happiness infectious. Charlie, despite losing, couldn’t help but laugh along with him, the atmosphere light and filled with camaraderie.

“Are you ready for this?” Charlie asked, a mischievous glint in his eye as he concentrated hard on his next move. “This time, I’m not holding back!”

Nick chuckled, raising an eyebrow. “I’m shaking in my boots! Bring it on!” They launched into another round, their friendly competition heightening the playful energy in the room.

As the match progressed, Nick found himself getting lost in the moment, the worries of the outside world fading away with each laughter-filled exchange. Charlie was right there beside him, cheering and groaning in all the right places, their connection deepening with every shared experience.

After another round ended with Nick emerging victorious, he fell back against the floor with a dramatic sigh. “I’m so good at this, it’s almost unfair,” he teased, looking sideways at Charlie, who was mock-glaring at him.

“Oh, please! Just you wait until I actually figure out how to play,” Charlie shot back, a grin breaking through his mock annoyance. “Next time, I’ll show you who’s boss!”

Nick laughed, enjoying the playful banter that flowed effortlessly between them. “I’ll be sure to bring snacks for when you’re crying after I win again,” he replied, nudging Charlie with his elbow.

“Just you wait! I’ll get my revenge,” Charlie promised, his eyes sparkling with playful determination.

After a few more rounds, Nick finally paused the game, leaning back against the wall, breathless from laughter and excitement. “Okay, okay, I think I need a break. I’m going to need some water before I can handle another round.”

“Good idea,” Charlie agreed, standing up and stretching. “Let’s grab some drinks, and maybe we can switch to a different game for a bit?”

“Yeah, sounds perfect,” Nick replied, feeling a warmth spread in his chest. The simple pleasure of spending time with Charlie, sharing laughter and fun, filled him with a sense of happiness that felt refreshing and new.

As they made their way to the kitchen, the atmosphere between them was light, their connection growing stronger with every shared moment. Nick felt grateful for days like this, where laughter and joy filled the air, reminding him just how far he’d come—and how much he cherished having Charlie by his side.