What Means the Most

Chapter 7

Erik was back at his usual time. Charles' heart skipped a beat upon hearing the noise of Erik opening the door, hanging his coat, putting the groceries in the kitchen and joining Charles in the study. Yes, he missed that and now when he heard it again he felt his heart leap.

Erik showed at the door like he did that first day he came to Charles' flat. He did not get inside though, remaining at the doorframe as if something was stopping him.

"Erik." Charles greeted him. "So good to see you again."

He said, sounding mostly normal.

"Good to see you, too." Erik mumbled under his breath. He seemed... awkward. Like he wasn't sure how to behave.

"You can come in, y'know." Charles reminded him.

Erik did so, taking the place opposite Charles as he usually did when they were playing chess. It was just as Charles had pictured it but then suddenly he realized he had forgotten all the little speeches he had prepared in his head. His mind went blank.

Erik took advantage of the silence and spoke first.

"Charles, about what I said last week... I'm sorry that I freaked you out."

Charles frowned. Freak him out? When did Erik freak him out? It was Charles who freaked Erik out with his stupid slip of the tongue and his silly nervousness and emotions and feelings.

Erik continued. "I really hope you don't hate me for that. I promise I never took advantage of the situation! I never even considered taking advantage of anything!"

Now Charles had to interrupt him. "Taking advantage? Erik, what are you talking about?"

Erik blinked a few times. "Well... For what I said in the shower."

Charles was still confused what did Erik do wrong there?

"I told you I liked you...?" Erik supplied generously.

"You said you liked my company." Charles amended.

"I'm pretty sure I said I liked you too." Erik insisted.

"No, no, no." Charles raised his finger. "You said my company."

"Doesn't that mean you as well?"

"Not exactly. Besides, why would that freak me out? Lots of people like me. I'll have you know I'm a very likeable person."

Erik rolled his eyes "You don't say."

"What's that supposed to mean?" Charles fake-pouted. Things were beginning to feel normal again. Was that good enough? Or did Charles want more? Charles wanted more but could he live with less?

"Don't be silly, Charles. I like you like you."

What was this, fifth grade!? But then again, what did Erik just say?

"You what."

"You mean so much to me, Charles!" Erik was suddenly really close to him, face to face at eye level. He must be kneeling on the floor, Charles thought distantly but could hardly make himself to think at the moment. "The more I got to know you, the more precious you became to me. But I promise I wasn't taking advantage of you, I really only meant to help!" Charles was listening in astonishment. "I mean" Erik continued, looking like a dork, "I cannot deny that I have certain hopes... And I'm not forcing them on you! Not at all! But I'm sure we can be really happy together, Charles!"

"Huh?" Charles articulated.

Erik started listing things that they would be able to do as a couple. All those sweet romantic ridiculous nonsense that people in love do. Walks in the park and lazy sunday mornings, that sort of thing. It was painful to listen.