Half a heart

Chapter 99

Trigger Warnings: Anxiety, Mental Health, Emotional Distress

Jacob's POV

The sun was barely up, casting a dim light through the house, but Paul and I were already moving. Today was a big day for the boys-and especially for Charlie. The interview for the new album, featuring Charlie's first songs with the band, was scheduled for this morning. I knew he was probably more anxious than he'd ever admit, and honestly, I'd been nervous for him too.

I started with the boys, going room to room with Paul, gently knocking on doors and reminding them we had to get moving. Most of them groaned or mumbled something about "just five more minutes," but they shuffled out eventually, rubbing their eyes and yawning as they made their way downstairs.

Next was Charlie's room. I approached his door, giving it a gentle knock. "Charlie?" No response. I tried again, but it was still silent. Not wanting to startle him, I slowly opened the door to find him still curled up in bed, Nick's arms wrapped protectively around him. The soft hum of his machine filled the room, signaling that it was almost time for his next feed.

Quietly, I set up everything for the feed, making sure not to disturb either of them. Charlie looked so peaceful, and Nick had that calm, protective look on his face, even in his sleep. After everything was in place, I slipped back out, leaving the door slightly ajar to give them privacy but so I could also listen in case they needed anything.

As I was waiting for the feed to finish, I heard the gentle rustling inside, followed by Nick's soft voice as he stirred awake. When I peeked back in, Nick was sitting up, one hand gently brushing through Charlie's hair to wake him. Charlie slowly blinked his eyes open, looking drowsy but calm as he focused on Nick's face.

I stepped in quietly as the feed finished, and Nick gave me a nod. I made quick work of cleaning up and detaching the machine, making sure everything was fresh and sanitized.

"Good morning, sleepyhead," Nick murmured to Charlie, who gave a faint smile, rubbing his eyes.

"Mornin'," he whispered back, still clinging to Nick as if trying to ground himself.

Nick helped him up and guided him to the bathroom, taking the time to help him shower and change his tube dressing with the kind of care that only Nick had for him. It didn't take too long, and soon enough, Nick led Charlie back out, all dressed and ready to go with his portable feed system and bags packed.

I moved to his side as Nick handed him off gently, supporting him as we walked down the stairs to meet the others. The boys, already waiting, greeted Charlie with cheers and warm smiles, patting him on the back and making him laugh, instantly putting him at ease. Paul had the car ready, and we all piled in, eager to get to the studio for the interview.

Meanwhile, Nick stayed back, saying he'd tidy up and make sure everything was ready for Charlie when he came home. I knew how much that meant to Charlie, and from the look in Nick's eyes, I could tell he'd make sure every detail was taken care of.

The interview went well, with the boys hyping up Charlie's parts on the album, showering him with so much love and support that I could see him start to believe he truly belonged there. Charlie looked relieved and happy by the end, the smallest hints of a real smile peeking through as he answered questions.

When we got back home, Charlie practically ran inside, already knowing Nick was waiting. I chuckled, watching as he darted toward Nick, who was standing in the living room, holding out Charlie's freshly laundered weighted blanket.

"There you are, angel," Nick murmured, wrapping him up in the blanket and pulling him into a big hug. Charlie's whole body relaxed as he sank into Nick's arms, letting out a content sigh.

"Thank you," he whispered, voice muffled in Nick's shoulder.

"Anytime, love," Nick replied, gently squeezing him. The look in Charlie's eyes said it all. Being wrapped up and held like this was the only thing that could fully calm him, and Nick always understood that.

As the rest of us watched, it was clear that this wasn't just a group of bandmates or friends. It was family, each of us bound to Charlie in some way, all of us willing to do whatever it took to keep him safe and supported. And seeing him in Nick's arms, finally smiling and comfortable, reminded me of just how much this family meant.