Half a heart

Chapter 100

Trigger Warnings: Anxiety, Mental Health, Emotional Distress

Louis's POV

Today was a big day, and my heart was full with a mixture of pride and nerves for Charlie. After all he'd been through, he was finally getting his feeding tube removed. This would be his first step toward eating normally again-starting with puréed foods for a few weeks, then gradually moving back to solids. I knew it had been a long road, but he'd made it this far. And Harry and I weren't going to leave his side.

Harry and I piled into the car, with Charlie sitting between us in the back seat. Harry had already taken his hand, giving it a squeeze, his thumb gently rubbing over Charlie's knuckles.

"You ready, angel?" Harry asked, giving him an encouraging smile.

Charlie nodded, though his hand gripped Harry's tightly. "Kinda nervous," he admitted softly, casting his eyes down.

Harry leaned over, brushing a light kiss on Charlie's forehead. "You've got this. And we're right here."

As we pulled into the parking lot, I reached over and gently ruffled Charlie's hair. "You've been doing amazing, mate. This is just the next step. We're proud of you, every step of the way."

Charlie gave us a small, brave smile, but I could still see the hint of anxiety in his eyes. We headed inside, Harry's hand still holding his tightly, and checked in at the desk.

When the doctor finally called us back, Charlie took a deep breath and walked with us down the hall. He sat down on the examination table, hands gripping the edge nervously, while Harry kept close, his hand never leaving Charlie's. I could see the way Charlie's shoulders relaxed just a bit with Harry there beside him, that steady presence always grounding him.

The doctor came in and smiled warmly at Charlie. "Hello, Charlie! Today's the big day, huh?"

Charlie nodded, managing a tiny smile. "Yeah," he murmured.

The doctor went through a few explanations, outlining what the next few weeks would look like with puréed foods, and how they'd start reintroducing solids gradually. Then, he stepped over to Charlie. "All right, Charlie, let's go ahead and remove that tube. You'll feel a bit of a strange sensation, but it'll be quick, I promise."

Charlie's grip tightened on Harry's hand, and I stood by his other side, rubbing his back gently.

The doctor carefully removed the tape securing the tube, and Charlie flinched slightly as the tube began to slide out. Harry leaned close to him, murmuring, "Just breathe, love. We're right here. Almost done."

After a few seconds, the tube was fully removed, and Charlie let out a small, relieved breath. Harry gave his hand a proud squeeze, and I could see the relief in Charlie's eyes, even as he still looked a little shaken.

"There we go! All done," the doctor said, smiling. "You did great, Charlie. Now, let's try that first taste of real food."

The doctor handed him a small container of applesauce with a spoon, explaining how purées would be easier on his stomach to start. Charlie glanced at us, his eyes widening slightly as he looked down at the applesauce. I could tell he was nervous.

"You've got this, mate," I said softly, giving his shoulder a reassuring squeeze. "Take your time."

Harry gently encouraged him, "Just a small bite, yeah? See how it feels."

Charlie nodded, taking a slow, deep breath before carefully dipping the spoon into the applesauce. He brought it up to his mouth, taking a small taste, his eyes uncertain.

We watched, holding our breaths, as he swallowed. He paused, waiting for any discomfort, but then he looked up at us, his eyes softening with relief.

"It's... it's good," he said quietly, a tiny smile forming.

Harry grinned, visibly relaxing, and leaned in to kiss the top of Charlie's head. "You're doing it, angel."

I felt a wave of pride as I looked at him. "This is huge, Charlie. You're doing amazing."

Charlie finished the applesauce slowly, taking his time with each bite. It was like watching a massive weight lift off his shoulders with every spoonful. By the end, he looked tired but calm, his expression one of pure relief.

After the doctor gave us the final instructions and cleared us to head home, we made our way back to the car. Once Charlie was settled back between us, Harry took his hand again, giving him a warm smile.

"You did great in there, love," Harry murmured. "I'm so proud of you."

Charlie leaned his head against Harry's shoulder, visibly exhausted but with a content look in his eyes. "Thanks... I couldn't have done it without you both."

We drove home quietly, Charlie nestled between us, and I felt a sense of peace I hadn't felt in a while. This was just the beginning of his journey back to health, but knowing he was surrounded by so much love and support, I had no doubt he was going to make it through.