Fallen

37. In and Out

Half the month of December seemed to have gone by in the blink of an eye, as it was now the 15th. This day was the Nelson Christmas reunion party. That meant everyone would be there; aunts, uncles, cousins, cousins Nick has met only once or twice, dogs, and brothers, specifically David. David being there was a huge set off for Nick, and he considered not going.

"Nick, you have to go. Just don't talk to David." Charlie mumbled, tying Nick's tie.

"You say that as if I have a choice." Nick said in response. "This is tight.." Nick groaned as he tugged at the accessory.

Charlie rolled his eyes. "So wear a jumper or at least a polo shirt. It's a family Christmas party, not a funeral.."

Nick sighed and nodded, looking down at his tie that was suddenly yanked, while his lips landed on Charlie's.

Charlie seemed to white enjoy the kiss, which was funny considering he just almost choked his husband.

"Ow.." Nick huffed.

Charlie smiled. "Sorry.. Fuck, why are you so handsome?"

Nick blushed, rolling his eyes. "I'm not."

Charlie scoffed as if he was personally offended, because he was. "Yes you are!"

"Okay okay!" Nick surrendered, taking off the tie and heading upstairs to change into a plain polo. 

While Nick was being a beauty queen and taking his time to get ready, Harper and Oscar came down. Harper was dressed in a green jumper, paired with a white pleated skirt and matching white sneakers. Ossy sported a more casual look; a Christmas hoodie and loose jeans. 

"Don't you two look nice." Charlie noticed, smiling at his children, who didn't share his grin. "Why the pouts?" Charlie questioned. 

Harper shrugged. She knew the real reason: David. Compared to Charlie's side of the family, who were pretty judgmental (besides Tori and Oliver), she much preferred the Nelsons. The Spring family (mostly cousins) were oddly interested in Harper and Ossy's sexualities, most likely wondering if Charlie had 'passed down his gayness' (which, ironically, he did.) Because of this, Harper was glad Nick's family was accepting and not intrusive (for the most part.) The only person who contradicted this loveliness was, of course, David. David was always weird; ever since Harper knew him. He was just a complete wanker. 

After a beat, Harper answered her father's question. "Honestly? I don't want to see Uncle David. I'm sorry, but after what happened last time.." She trailed off. 

Charlie nodded in understanding. "I get it." He said softly. "If he gives you a problem, come straight to me or Nick. Or grandmum even, okay?" 

"Okay." Harper said, nodding her head in conformation. 

Nick then ran down, his hair flopping every time he hit another step. He was now wearing dress pants (against his will) and a nice salmon pink polo shirt. 

"You look lovely." Charlie said, unable to stop his cheeks turning red. 

"Why thank you." Nick smiled smugly, grabbing the keys as he instructed his family to the car. 

"Nicky!!" Was the first thing everyone heard when the door to Sarah Nelson's house opened. She greeted the family with a smile, giving her son a giant hug before going to hug Charlie, Harper, and Oscar. 

"Hi grandmum." Harper smiled, returning the hug. 

"You get prettier and prettier every time, my dear." Sarah noted, letting Harper inside. 

It seemed as if they were one of the last to arrive, considering the house was already stuffed with people. A few cousins came up to Harper, and some relatives she barely remembered. Harper was right in the middle of talking to some uncle, until a small child grabbed her in a vice grip.