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Chapter Text

**Chapter one:**

Nick is standing outside during playtime watching the children play whilst drinking a cup of tea out of his travel mug when he feels his phone vibrating in the chest pocket of his coat.

“Sorry, do you mind if I take this?” He asks his colleague next to him.

“Go for it.” She says shaking her head.

He smiles taking out his phone seeing a call from an unknown number, curious he answers it.

“Hello, is this Nicholas Nelson I’m speaking to? Next of kin to Charles Francis Spring?” A pit forms in the young primary school teacher’s stomach.

“That’s correct, I’m Nicolas, I’m Charles’ partner.” He takes a deep breath unsure of what to expect next.

“Hello Nicholas, my name is Andrea and I work at Kent general hospital. Your partner, Charles was brought in today by ambulance after passing out at work and he was diagnosed with appendicitis and is currently in emergency surgery to have them removed. It's a very routine surgery you have nothing to worry about. He’ll need someone to pick him up from the hospital in around two hours. Are you available to do so or would you like me to call someone else?”

Nick let out the sigh of relief he’d been holding in, too afraid of jinxing anything, his mind was racing.

“Tell him I’ll be there as soon as I can. There’s no need to call anyone else. I’m on my way. I’m coming. Thank you, thank you, Andrea.”

Gosh he was rambling, he knew that but he couldn’t stop.

“Okay that’s fantastic Nicholas. He’s in ward four of the accident and emergency department. Just buzz in when you arrive and say who you are and who you’re here to collect so we can send Charles out to you. Just a warning he might be a little unsteady on his feet due to the anesthesia and slight abdominal discomfort but that’s all perfectly normal. Have a good day, goodbye.”

Without thinking, Nick raced off the playground and straight into the headmaster’s office, pounding on the door when he arrived. There was no answer, he began to panic then realized it was break time and the headmaster may well be in the staff room. All eyes were on him as he bolted into the staff room huffing and puffing like a fourth little pig.

“Everything okay Nick?” Mr James asked just as Nick was regaining his breath, leant over with his hands on his thighs.

“No and I hate to do this but my partner Charlie has been taken in for emergency surgery to get his appendix removed and he needs to be picked up from the hospital. Ideally I need two hours off just to go get him and get him home safely then hopefully my mum can come stay with him.”

“Nick, sit down. Breathe. Listen, I can tell you're incredibly stressed & worried. These are exceptional circumstances, please take the remainder of the day off. Go be with him and let us know how he is.”

A tsunami of relief washed over the ginger 27 year old and he stood up.

“Thank you so much Mr James. I’ll make it up to you I swear.” With that he bolted out of the room and straight up to his classroom to retrieve his belongings.

One thing about Nick was that he was a massive mama’s boy, so naturally the second he got into his car he rang Sarah.

“Do you think he hit his head when he passed out? Oh come on mate, fucking go! Green means go!” Nick raged, His breathing quick.

“Nicky, language. Take a deep breath. Look our Charlie is a tough cookie, he’s going to be just fine.” He took a deep breath trying to relax as he went round the roundabout, his sweaty palms gripping the steering wheel.

“I’m so afraid that the anesthesia is going to make him lose his appetite and then he’s going to relapse with his eating. Wait, can you send me your recipe for the macaroni cheese you make that Charlie loves please? I want to make it for tea in the hopes he’ll eat something.”

He could hear his mum clicking a pen then writing several things down, “I’ll do you one better, I’ll go get the ingredients and come round to cook it for the two of you. This way you can focus on Charlie.”

Nick’s heart filled with love for his mother in that moment, “thank you so much mum. That would be so nice. As long as it’s not too much trouble?” Just then as Nick was approaching the traffic lights a teenager ran across the road without using the zebra crossing, “oh for god's sake don’t be a massive twat! The zebra crossing is there for a reason, ASSHOLE!” He was aware he was shouting but he was both stressed and angry.

Sarah tutted on the other end of the phone. “Nicky, it’s no bother really. But please stop swearing, just calm down. You can’t get to Charlie if you crash. Look love, I’ll let you go because I need to go get ingredients. Text me when he’s home. Love you, bye.”

Chapter Text

Chapter two:

TRIGGER WARNING: emetophobia & mentions of being sick

Charlie was so relieved when the nurse said that Nick was here to pick him up because even though he felt sick and his stomach hurt he knew he’d feel better the moment he saw Nick. He could hear two sets of footsteps as he put his flannel back on.

“Mr Spring is just down here, I have his discharge folder here.” He could hear the nurse saying, the second he saw Nick nothing was stopping Charlie from standing up.

Without a word his boyfriend rushed towards him wrapping his arms around him and squeezing him gently before sitting on the bed beside him.

“Right Mr Nelson, you’ll need to remain with him for the next 24 hours as Charles will require monitoring to watch for any side effects of the anesthesia. If he develops a fever higher than 40.9 Celsius please come back to the hospital as he will have an infection. As you can see we’ve given him a sick bowl as he’s been complaining about feeling sick since he woke up, we suggest you keep that with you just in case. Lastly, as my colleague explained to you on the phone, Mr Spring may experience some abdominal pain and dizziness for a while but this is completely normal and should improve with rest at home.”

Nick rubbed Charlie’s shoulder supportively. “Thank you Nurse Mount, that’s excellent.”

“Any questions before you sign the discharge forms?” Nurse Mount asked placing Charlie’s folder open on the wheeled table by his bed. “No thank you, everything has been wonderful.” Charlie responded as he picked up one of the pens to sign the papers before passing it to Nick.

Once they’d signed the papers the young couple were allowed to leave the ward. They walked slowly down the corridors with Charlie holding onto Nick's forearm to steady him.

“Sorry for making us look like an old married couple and I’m even more sorry for pulling you out of work.” Charlie said sniffling as he swayed from side to side. Then he felt sick and grabbed his sick bowl and used it.

“Oh Char. It’s okay. Look, let's sit you down here for a minute.” The older man said, easing his boyfriend into a plastic chair kneeling in front of him as he began to cry. “Shh. I’m right here. You’re okay. That’s it.” Charlie used the bowl again but began to feel better. Nick rubbed circles into his back until he was sure Charlie felt better.

“I’m okay now, just tired.” He managed with a yawn. “Can we go to the car now?” With a lot of help the younger boyfriend was able to stand up and make it to the car.

Being extra careful Nick helped Charlie into the front seat and gently buckled his seat belt, “is that okay Char? Tell me if it’s not.” “Everything is perfect Nick. I just need to nap.” He draped an arm over his stomach and as Nick drove away Charlie felt his eyes close. As they pulled up to the first set of traffic lights Nick looked over at Charlie who was asleep peacefully in the front seat next to him and he couldn’t help but smile because of how much love his heart was filled with for him. Whilst waiting for the lights to turn green Nick decided that he’s going to drive the long way home so Charlie could continue to sleep. Even after driving the long way home Charlie still hadn’t woken from his slumber so Nick pulled out his phone and played a few rounds of Candy Crush Saga to pass the time and he debated calling Charlie’s parents but ultimately decided to wait until he’d spoken to Charlie first as he knows all too well the complicated relationship between him and his parents.

Chapter Text

Chapter 3:

“Charlie, char. Come on, that’s it. Wake up.” Nick was desperately trying to coax his exhausted boyfriend awake as gently as he could.

“Just five minutes more.” He groaned, his eyes drooping. “I just fell asleep.”

As much as Nick hated seeing him like this he had to admit sleepy Charlie was so fucking adorable. “Sweetheart, you’ve been asleep for 45 minutes. I’ll let you nap once you’re in bed, it’ll be easier on your back and neck.” He was doing everything in his power to persuade Charlie to get up.

Slowly Charlie sat up groaning a little as Nick unbuckled his seatbelt. “Only if you come lay down with him.” Charlie responded with a pouty face. “I need cuddles.”

With a beaming smile Nick replied, “of course now let’s get you inside.” He quickly grabbed his work satchel then walked around to the passenger side of the car before scooping up his very sleepy black cat boyfriend.

The second they were in the flat Nick carried Charlie into the bedroom and sat him on the bed before going into the wardrobe and getting out Charlie’s favorite pajamas and fluffy socks because he deserved to be as comfortable as possible.

“Let’s get you changed.” He said starting to undress Charlie who protested. “Nick, I can do it myself. Please.”

The younger man managed to change into his pyjamas although he groaned in pain and his boyfriend could see how red and swollen the skin around his dressings was. As Charlie tried to bend down to put his socks on he yelped out, he instantly sat up and handed Nick the socks.

“Sorry will you help me with my socks?” His boyfriend gratefully took the socks before kissing his forehead.

“There’s no need to apologise. you just had emergency surgery, let me look after you.” Nick put the socks on then picked up a yawning Charlie and put him in bed. He quickly texted Sarah to let her know Charlie was home and resting. Once he was covered with the duvet Charlie began to snuggle into Nick and before long he was fast asleep. When he awoke from his slumber he noticed the space in the bed beside him was cold and he was alone, noticing his phone on the bedside table Charlie picked it up and texted Nick, “where are you?” He heard the notification come through on Nick’s phone so he knew Nick must be close.

Nick heard his phone beep with a text, it was Charlie asking him where was. He picked up the two cups of tea he’d made them and walked into the bedroom.

“Hey, no leaving me. I need cuddles.” Charlie whined holding his arms out as Nick walked into the room. Nick put the two mugs on the bedside table and climbed back into bed beside Charlie who was still laying down. As he sat himself up Charlie groaned in pain and slumped over onto nick’s chest.

“How are you feeling?” It seemed like a silly question to ask but nick wanted to know how his boyfriend was coping.

“I’d be feeling better if I hadn’t been abandoned!” The younger man retorted as Nick cuddled him.

He chuckled then said, “seriously Char how you holding up?”

“I still feel sick and my stomach hurts so bad.” Feeling bad for him Nick gently rubbed circles into Charlie’s back with one hand and passed him his tea with the other.

“Can we stay here and cuddle for awhile please. Don’t feel like moving.”

Nick kissed Charlie’s forehead, “of course, my love. But there’s something I want to discuss with you.” Charlie looked up at him.

“Char I think we need to tell your parents that you had surgery.”

Instantly the froze and tensed up in Nick’s arms before saying “Please nick don’t. We can tell Tori, Micheal and Olly but don’t make me tell my parents. They’re so toxic, they’ll come round here taking over especially Jane she’s a control freak. I don’t want to see or speak to them until I’m recovered, I don’t have the energy to deal with them right now. Please.” It broke Nick’s heart to see his favourite person this way, he knew they had to come to a compromise together.

“Char, look I know you’re worried about your parents reaction but I promise you I’ll be with you every step of the way. If it makes you feel better I can ban them from visiting and I’ll make the call for you.” Nick said supportively as he sipped his tea. Charlie nodded feeling better, although hearing from his parents while he felt vulnerable was still scary.

“Will you do it sooner rather than later, please?” The convalescing young man asked pulling the duvet over him, getting comfortable again. Nick felt an immense amount of relief when he heard Charlie say that because they both knew that the best way to handle the Spring parents was to tell them sooner rather than later.

With a smile Nick nodded pulling his phone out of his pocket, “Of course I will. Do you want me to do it now?” As much as Charlie just wanted to be held by Nick he also knew that Nick needed to leave him to make the call at some point, so surely it was better to get it over and done with quicker?

“Please, I just want it over with. Then can you come back here and cuddle me?” Charlie asked thinking for a moment before saying, “I miss Nellie & Henry real bad, I need doggo snuggles right now. That’s one of the things I miss most about living with your mum, that and her amazing cooking.”

Nick just smiled, he adored how well Charlie and his mum got on. “Okay, you got it. I’ll be as quick as I can.” With that nick left the room closing the door behind him gently letting his boyfriend get some much needed rest.

Chapter Text

Chapter four-

Slumping into the couch Nick pulled up his contacts list on his phone and searched for “Jane Spring”, then his finger hovered over the call button before he finally gained courage to call. It rang 6 times before she picked up.

“Hello Nicholas, is everything okay? Is my son okay?” Jane asked with a very worried tone.

Nick made a point of taking a deep breath and collecting his thoughts before replying, “Jane I’m calling to let you know Charlie had an appendectomy today. He’s currently in bed sleeping off the anaesthesia, he’ll be fine. At present the doctors have advised him to take the next seven days off work to rest and I agreed with them.”

Before he had a chance to say much Else Jane quickly spoke up, “will he be okay? Are you taking care of my son? When can I see him?” Nick rolled his eyes well aware that was coming.

“Jane, take a deep breath. Everything is okay, Charlie is very drowsy and out of it at the moment. This is normal, the doctors told me to expect this, it should wear off in the coming days. He’s not up to visitors yet but he should be by the weekend. I’ll call you on Saturday with another update.”

Nick had said this because today was Wednesday so that gave Charlie three full days to recover before facing his parents, which he knew the young man would need.

Quickly he texted the group chat “the LGBTQ+ squad and their favourite olly (ally)” that the couple had with Tori, Charlie’s older sister and her boyfriend,Micheal and the Spring’s younger brother Olly, to inform them of Charlie’s surgery. Nick told them everything he currently knew as well as letting them know that Jane and Julio had been told. Michael replied quickly sending Charlie his warmest wishes.

Then he called his mum to check in with her, she picked up instantly. “Hi Nicky, how’s our tough cookie doing?” He smiled the second he heard her voice. “I’m just leaving Asda’s now. I got him a few “get well soon” presents, nothing big just some bits I thought he’d like.” Nick knew he’d lucked out in the mum department especially today, she was making this day so much easier than it could’ve been.

“Oh mum, that’s so sweet of you. I’m sure he’ll love it. He’s still struggling with a lot of pain and discomfort, he’s also slept a lot. You’ll love this, he said he misses puppy cuddles and your cooking.” He heard Sarah chuckling down the phone, “mum I’m serious he woke up from his nap and said that.”

“Oh I love that boy. Shall I bring them with me? I can drop home and grab them?” Sarah asked over the speaker phone as she turned on her indicator. A warm comforted smile swept over Nick’s face at the thought of his beloved childhood pets visiting his soulmate at a time when he needed love and comfort.

“You know what mum that sounds really lovely, would you?” Nick responded quietly getting up off the couch and heading into the kitchen.

“Of course, we’ll be by in about half hour. See you then, love you. Bye.” His mum replied before ending the call, Nick put his phone into his pocket and set about tidying up the kitchen so Sarah had a clean room to make their dinner in. It was the least he could do given how incredibly understanding and supportive she’d been. Once Nick had finished tidying up the kitchen and the lounge, he set about making another cup of tea for Charlie and getting himself a red bull out of the fridge before heading back into the master bedroom.

“Hey Char, good news.” Nick said as he walked into the bedroom putting their drinks on the bedside table.

“Yeah? What’s up?” The curly hair man replied as his boyfriend got in bed beside him.

“Mum and the dogs are coming over to visit. Mum’s going to make that pasta you love for dinner.” Nick told Charlie as he cuddled him close.

“That’s the best news I’ve heard all day. Pup snuggles and homemade pasta.” Charlie said smiling.

The couple remained in bed cuddling and sipping on their drinks whilst they waited for Sarah to arrive.

Chapter Text

Chapter five-

There was a knock at the door so Nick got out of bed and answered it, leaving Charlie comfortable where he was. Going out into the kitchen he buzzed their guests up and waiting for them patiently on the couch. It wasn’t long before Nick heard the comforting sound of his mum’s voice encouraging Nellie up into the flat. He stood up waiting for her to knock on the door, as soon as she did he swung the door open and hugged her tightly. It’d been an incredibly stressful day and Nick just needed a cuddle from his mum.

“Oh Nicky.” Sarah said putting her many bags on the kitchen counter to embrace his hug and she didn’t let go until he did. “It’s okay, I’m here.” It gave her great relief that her son still found comfort in his mother, she felt as if she’d done something right.

The pair pulled away from their embrace as they heard movement from the bedroom followed by a quiet groaning. After awhile Charlie waddled out of the bathroom, still unsteady on his feet as he made his way into the open plan kitchen. Motherly instincts took over Sarah and she handed Nick the dogs’ leash before rushing to Charlie’s side to Help him.

“Oh you poor poppet, let’s get you more comfortable.” She said softly as she put a arm behind his back. “Where do you want to be? The bedroom or the lounge?”

The second Charlie realised it was Sarah who was beside him he leaned in and squeezed her gently. “Oh Sarah I’m so glad to see you. I want to be on the couch.”

Instantly Sarah guided her future son in law over to the couch, going as slowly as he needed her to. “Nicky, go grab some pillows from the bedroom for me.”

Nellie & Henry laid on the floor whining because Charlie hadn’t given them any attention since they’d arrived, Sarah was more concerned about getting Charlie comfortable. Charlie groaned as he bent down to sit on the couch just as Nick appeared out of the bedroom with pillows.

“Right poppet, let’s put these around you. Let’s do one either side of you,” Sarah fussed taking the pillows from her son and fluffing them before positioning them just right as Nick helped him lean back before handing Charlie the remote to the recliner so he could put his feet up too. “Are you comfortable now? Let me know if you need anything else, I’m just in the kitchen.”

Once Nick was confident Charlie was comfortable he gently sat the dogs by Charlie So they could be get the attention they’d been craving. “Oh I’ve missed puppy cuddles.” Charlie said scratching behind Nellie’s ear with one hand and rubbing Henry’s belly with the other. “I need you three after the day I’ve had.”

Thinking Charlie was comfortable with the dogs Nick went and sat on the bean bag but Just as Nick plopped down Charlie said, “excuse me? I need Nick cuddles too!” Pretending to be mad Nick rolled his eyes before standing up and walking back over to the couch.

“I’m boiling the kettle, do either of you boys want a tea?” Sarah shouted from the kitchen as Charlie lay on Nick’s chest as Nick combed through Charlie’s messy bed head.

“Please. “ they said at almost the same time neither bothering to move a inch. Both the dogs had now begun to fall asleep and there was something about knowing his mum was in the kitchen cooking whilst he cuddled Charlie with the dogs’ sleeping around them that made Nick feel very content and comforted. This was his happy place, the only thing he’d change was Charlie having surgery.

“Here we go my little angels” Sarah says entering the lounge holding a gift bag on her wrist whilst carrying two mugs of tea. Nick took his mug from her to lighten the load, still holding onto Charlie with the other. With a smile Sarah put Charlie’s mug on the coffee table in front of him.

“I got you a few bits in Asda poppet. Just thought you could do with a bit of cheering up.” She handed him the gift bag before sitting down in the armchair next to the couch to watch him open his gifts.

“Oh mama, that’s so sweet. You didn’t need to, thank you!” He replied setting the bag on his lap, in truth he’d not Called her that nickname in years (due to a rocky relationship with his own mother) but he was feeling so grateful for her love & support right now. With a smile Charlie pulled out the adult colouring book, coloured pencils & different marker pens.

“This looks really fun, I can’t wait to try it out!” He flicked through the book admiring the intricate Mandala patterns, rainbow shapes & inspiring quotes. It looked very relaxing to him.

“You’re most welcome, I thought it’d be a good recovery project for you so you don’t rush back into work stuff too early & stress yourself out.” The mother hen replied knowingly, Charlie smiled he liked that Sarah took such an interest in his well being because it made him feel loved.

“Let me go finish up your dinner.” Gently she kissed both young men on the forehead before stroking the sleeping dogs and heading back into the kitchen.

Without really thinking Charlie sat up slightly and bent over to reach for his tea.

“Ah, ow. I shouldn’t have done that.” He exclaimed instantly putting his hand to his stomach.

Nick quickly came to his rescue putting a supportive arm around him To guide him back to the couch. “Oh love, you should’ve asked me. You’re not allowed to strain yourself. That’s what I’m here for.”

“Oh that’s better, thank you.” Charlie says as he relaxes into the couch. Nick fluffed the pillows around Charlie to make sure he was as relaxed as possible.

Once Charlie was comfortable again Nick handed him the mug before saying, “you were so brave today you know That?”

Charlie chuckled, he’d never been very good at accepting compliments or praise. “Nick it was a routine operation. Hundreds if not thousands of people have it everyday.” He took a sip of his tea and handed Nick back the mug.

Nick shook his head putting the mug back on the coffee table. “Yes but they’re not you, my love.”

After a while Nick put the tv on so Charlie could watch a David Attenborough documentary because this was relaxing to them both. The dogs are left Charlie in favour of their beds under the tv & were now napping.

“Will you get me a blanket? I’m cold.” Charlie asked after awhile, “you know the Dino one in the bedroom, the fluffy one.”

Nick nodded understandingly kissing his forehead. “Of course, is there anything else I can get you?” Charlie shook his head and then Nick left for the bedroom.

The older man quickly returned and covered his boyfriend with the requested blanket as gently as possible before tucking it into the couch to prevent it slipping down.

“Nicky, you will come help me dish up dinner?” His mum called from the kitchen, Nick instantly turned around and went into the kitchen to be of assistance.

He smiled as he admired his mum’s efforts. The Pyrex dish was filled with fluffy & creamy cheese pasta, and there were chopped bell peppers and Carrots on the side in little individual pots. She was scooping the pasta into bowls as she noticed her son in the doorway. “Can you just grab me the tray of rolls from the oven?”

One thing about Sarah was that she was a feeder, nothing made her happier than cooking for her loved ones and Charlie was no exception. Doing as he was asked Nick took out the rolls & placed them on the countertop.

Sarah cut into the rolls then placed the veggies and pasta onto a lap tray as she waited for the rolls to cool down before adding butter.

“How are you feeling, Poppet? Ready for some dinner?” She asked walking into the living room with the lap tray & handing it to Charlie.

“Thank you so much Sarah, i really appreciate your hard work. It looks amazing.” Charlie replied instantly picking up his fork to dig in.

Sarah smiled widely as she watched two of the people she loved the most enjoying her home cooked food after a hard day. But it was short lived when Nick’s phone rang.

“It’s Mr James, I’ll be back.” He excused himself placing his plates onto the coffee table and walking into the bedroom.

Chapter Text

Chapter 6:
“Of course that’s fine. I understand, I’ll email you back when I’ve spoken to mum. Thank you for your understanding.” Nick said speaking to his headteacher on the phone, once he was certain the line had gone dead he locked the phone before heading out of the bedroom to find Sarah.

“Everything okay, Nicky?” His mum asked concerned as he entered the room again.

Nick’s eye line was instantly drew to Charlie who was still laid on the couch covered by his dinosaur blanket, he was scooping the last little bits of pasta from his bowl and Nick noticed that the tape holding the gauze over his cannula poke was lifting. Instinctively Nick sits bedside Charlie and starts trying to pat the tape back down.

“Let me get you a plaster. That’s not sticking.” Nick said, granted he was avoiding telling Charlie he was needed back at work tomorrow mostly because he hated the thought of leaving him alone so soon after surgery. He stood up making his way to the kitchen where they kept the first aid kit. Hot on his heels was Sarah holding Charlies bowls, “where’s the lap tray?” He asked curiously sorting through the first aid box, pretending to not know why his mother had followed him out here.

Sarah put the bowls into the sink, “he wanted to use it for his colouring. I put it under a cushion to raise up so he’s not bent over. Now do you feel like explaining what happened on the phone?” Her voice was concerned yet stern which signalled to Nick he needed to be honest with her.

“Unfortunately Mr James said I need to do a half day tomorrow because they will only be able to find cover for half the day. I need to decide if I’ll do the morning or afternoon. Would you stay with Charlie? He needs someone watching him for the first 48 hours post surgery, plus I don’t think he’s well enough to be left alone. Oh I hate the thought of leaving him.” Nick rambled before letting out a heavy sigh as he got the box of dinosaur plasters out and put them on the counter. Today had been an emotional rollercoaster for Nick.

“Oh Nicky, of course I will. Whatever you two need, I’m here for you. Tell you what, it’s my day off tomorrow so how about you work the morning. That way it’s over and done with, saves you building it up. Then once you’re home you don’t need to leave again until the next day. I love spending time with Charlie, it’ll be fun. I promise, you have nothing to worry about.” Sarah replied reassuringly as she rubbed his arm.

“Shall we go tell him together?” Sarah suggested doing everything she could to support nick through this emotional time.

“Please mum. Thank you for today.” He replied holding back tears as he carried the plasters into the lounge.

Nellie had climbed up onto the couch and was cuddling beside Charlie as he contently coloured his colouring book. They looked so peaceful Nick almost didn’t want to disturb them but he knew he needed to.

“Oh love, look at your hand. Let’s switch this out for a Dino plaster.” Nick said as he sat down taking Charlie’s hand gently peeling off the old tape.

“Can I pick which plaster I want, I did have surgery.” Charlie did his signature puppy dog face and nick couldn’t resist he handed the box straight over. “Thank you.”

“Anything for you, shall we cut off your hospital bracelet too?” He replied as Charlie nodded, “Mum will you bring me some scissors please? I’m going to cut off Charlie’s bracelet?”

“Way ahead of you, bringing them now.” Replied his mum as she walked into the room.

“Thank you,” Nick said taking the scissors from her and gently cutting off the bracelet. He took the plaster from Charlie and opened it before slowly placing it over his hand and kissing it better.

“Charlie, I have to go back to work for half the day tomorrow. So mum and I decided she’ll stay with you in the morning and I’ll come home after lunch and spend the rest of the day with you. I’m sorry but Mr James could only get cover for half the day. I’ll be back as soon as I can.” Nick explained worriedly still holding onto Charlie’s hand.

“Nick, I understand. I promise, it’s okay. I’d have understood if you were needed the whole day. Plus I love your mum, you know that. We’ll have a great time, stop worrying.” Charlie replied taking his boyfriend’s hand and kissing it gently before opening his arms for cuddles.

At around 8:30pm Sarah and Nick started getting the dogs ready to go home. Charlie tried to stand up and help but neither Sarah or Nick would let him, “Charlie you just had surgery, please stay there.” Sarah insisted firmly in her mothering tone as she got her shopping bags folded away in her handbag.

“Thank you so much for today mum, I really appreciate it.” Nick hugged his mom again after his stressful day. Today was one of those days he was so grateful for the relationship they shared.

“You’re welcome, Nicky. I’d do anything for you boys.” Sarah squeezed him extra hard before walking back into the living room to say goodbye to Charlie.

“Right poppet, I’m heading home now. I’ll see you tomorrow, but you’ve been so brave today and I’m really proud of you.” She gently leaned forward to hug her future son in law and kiss his forehead. He managed to hug her back and embrace her love. Feeling tired and content, Charlie let out a yawn.

“Nicky, you better help this tired young man into bed. He’s getting sleepy.” Sarah said walking out into the kitchen taking the dogs’ leashes and her handbag. “Goodnight my little angels. Sleep well.”

Chapter Text

Chapter 7-
Nick shut the door behind his mom then went back into the lounge with Charlie. Feeling tired Charlie let out a yawn as nick sat down beside him.

“Am I boring you, Charles?” He retorted jokingly rubbing Charlie’s arm lovingly.

Charlie sighed with a light laugh, cautious of his stomach. “Never, I’m just sleepy. Think I’m ready for bed.”

“Do you want a cup of tea before you go to bed?” Nick asks, knowing how Charlie always had a cup of tea before bed as long as he’d known him.

“Will you bring me it in bed?” He replied covering his mouth as he yawned again, before taking off his blanket to stand up.

“Of course, it’d be my pleasure.” Nick put the blanket back over Charlie before standing up and lifting Charlie into his arms with a kiss on the forehead for good measure. “Let’s get you in bed, my love.”

Being as gentle as he could Nick placed his boyfriend down on the bed and instantly running into the living room for the pillows to put behind him. He spent longer than necessary fluffing each pillow and putting it in exactly the right position.

“Is this comfortable enough for you? More pillows or less pillows? Are you warm enough? Do you need to be higher up in the bed, can you manage?” The older boyfriend fussed rambling on in concern, “do you want to be sat up anymore? I read online that you need to be propped up for at least-“

“Nick please, everything is wonderful. I could use that cup of tea though. Thank you.” Charlie stopped Nick in his spiral by patting his cheek lovingly.

After placing another kiss on his boyfriend’s forehead Nick left to go make Charlie his cup of tea. Whilst the kettle boiled he took a packet of painkillers out of the cupboard and made sure to take them into the bedroom with him alongside the two cups of tea.

“Thank you, my love.” Charlie says the second nick walks through the bedroom door.

Quickly nick climbed into bed beside Charlie and handed him his cup of tea. “Are you going to be okay with me sleeping next to you or shall I sleep on the couch into give you more space?” Nick asked nervously as Charlie blew his tea sleepily.

“Actually Nick i demand you stay here and cuddle me to sleep.” Charlie retorted, slowly feeling more like himself again before taking two of the painkillers Nick had brought in with their drinks.

After drinking their bedtime brews in a comfortable content silence Nick set his alarm for the following morning before turning off the bedside light & gently cuddling Charlie close until they fell asleep feeling incredibly blessed.

The next morning when Nick’s alarm went off he groaned a little into Charlie’s shoulder, he didn’t want to get up.

The alarm kept ringing until eventually Charlie said, “Alexa stop!”

“Good morning. How you feeling?” Nick asked looking up at Charlie, now aware he was awake.

“I’m sore but I’ll live.” Replied Charlie, his sarcastic sense of humour returning.

“Oh good, I’m delighted to hear that. Shall I make you a tea to celebrate?”

“Go on then, I think I’ll stay here.”

“Alright then.”

Nick got out of bed and set about getting ready for work. He quickly dressed in the bathroom before making his way into the kitchen to boil the kettle and put his porridge into microwave. Whilst he waited for his porridge to cook he packed his satchel and left it by the door. Once his bag was packed Nick set about making a cup of tea for himself and Charlie, before taking his porridge out of the Microwave and adding the chocolate chips and strawberries.

After putting the breakfast items onto a lap tray Nick took the tray into the bedroom so he could eat breakfast with Charlie who was still laying in bed. Nick sat on his side of the bed ensuring his feet hung off the side to make sure that his outdoor shoes didn’t touch the sheets, something which triggered Charlie’s OCD, he started his porridge.

“Thank you.” Charlie said acknowledging what Nick had done for him, knowing how difficult it is for him to get comfortable due to his height.

Leaning over to kiss Charlie’s forehead in between bites of porridge Nick replied, “Anything for you my love.”

Pretty much as soon as Sarah arrived Nick said his goodbyes and left for work knowing that the long he stayed around the harder he would find it to leave. If he was honest with himself having to leave Charlie the day after his surgery was causing Nick more anxiety than he cared to admit but he knew Charlie would be okay because Sarah was with him and she was great with Charlie.

The rational part of Nick’s brain knew it was only 5 hours and his mum would text him an update or two. On the 30 minute drive to school Nick had time to decide what activity he was going to do with his students. Ultimately today Nick decided he wanted to do something that both him and his students would enjoy which meant either sports or arts & crafts, since he didn’t have time to request the games hall this meant arts and crafts.

Once Nick had taken the register he started telling his class about Charlie’s surgery and how he needed cheering up so they needed to make him a giant card. Whilst his students watched the PowerPoint Nick had made of Charlie and what he liked, he used this time to get out all of the crafting materials he had in his classroom. One thing about Nick’s classroom was it was never running out of craft supplies because he was always spending his own money on them because he loved crafting with his kids.

“Right there’s a really big important question I want to ask Charlie in this card, does anyone know what that question might be?” Nick asked the class, who took a moment to think before any of them raised their hands.

“Are you going to ask him what he wants for dinner?” Asked Bethany, one of the most food obsessed kids Nick had ever met. Her classmates giggled at her response as they usually did whenever she brought up food.

He chuckled before responding with, “whilst that’s a very important question Bethany, it’s even bigger than dinner. Does anyone else have any guesses?”

The room fell silent again whilst they thought some more. Then Audrey put her hand up and said, “Mr Nelson is going to ask Charlie to marry him so they can be together for ever!”

This comment melted Nick’s heart and he required a moment’s composure before saying, “yes that’s right! I’m asking Charlie to marry me.”

For the rest of morning lessons Nick and his class spent their time decorating Charlie’s giant card. The children had lots of fun and worked really hard putting lots of effort into “Mr Nelson’s very big important project” as they referred to it.

When the children went out to playtime Nick texted Tara asking her to go ring shopping with him this afternoon, she replied back telling him she could as she had no dance classes to teach and she was very excited about this new milestone in his & Charlie’s relationship. Whilst he was on his phone he saw he had a text from his mom which included a picture of charlie napping on the couch with a plate of her homemade cookies and a cup of tea on the coffee table beside him. Nick smiled to himself, glad to see Charlie was okay before replying letting Sarah know that he’d be home later than planned and he’d sent her money to order a takeaway as an apology.

when the children came back in from playtime and the card was dry Nick made sure each kid got to sign Charlie’s card in between swigs if his red bull.

“Sir do you always have to drink the juice that makes you hyper?!” Asked Miles teasing his teacher as all the class did at one point or another.

Nick shook his head chuckling before saying, “You know Miles I’m hyper enough without it thank you, I just enjoy the taste of the juice!”

The kids giggled rolling their eyes in disbelief before quickly returning their focus back to Charlie’s card.

Once all the kids had signed the card Nick sat all the kids on the reading carpet and read them chapters of Percy Jackson until it was lunchtime, according to his students this was the best day ever because they got to bond with Mr Nelson. As soon as he sent his class off to lunch Nick grabbed his satchel and another can of red bull from his cupboard then making his way out to his car.

After Nick got into the car and put his phone into the phone holder and his red bull into the cup holder he put the address of the jewellers Tara gave him into his satnav app. He managed to get about five minutes into his journey before Tara called him.

“Hey Nick! How was your morning? I’m guessing you haven’t eaten lunch yet and I’m heading to Gregg’s so what can I get you?” She asked the second he answered the call leaving him no room to greet her first.

Realising quickly he’d be unable to convince her otherwise Nick gave Tara his usual order and swore he’d pay her back.

When Nick thought about who would accompany him ring shopping Tara seemed like the most obvious choice given their long history. She’d been his first kiss, and she’d supported him in every way she could when he was figuring out his sexuality. Tara had been the first person Nick told when he was dating Charlie and she’d been by his side through their whole relationship.

Choosing an engagement ring wasn’t going to be as difficult for Nick as he thought it would be because Nick was an observer at heart which meant anytime Charlie (or anyone he cared about) said they liked something he made note of it somewhere in his phone. In truth Nick had many photos, brands and or jewellery that Charlie liked, he’d even made a Pinterest board for the occasRight okay, now I’ve got an idea of what you want to buy for Charlie this trip is going to be much easier. We’re going to have some fun!” Tara reassured Nick, linking her arm around his as they walked the high street.

They spent time browsing each section of rings comparing them and checking prices whilst discussing what they thought Charlie would like. After plucking up the courage to go into the jeweller’s and looking at three separate cushions of rings, Nick saw “The ring”. Tara could tell instantly this was the right one and just rubbed Nick’s arm supportively before whispering into his ear, “do it. You’ve got this.”

After Nick had purchased the ring, him & Tara went to their favourite coffee spot for a quick drink. As they sipped their drinks the two friends talked about their lives and relationships, eventually Tara plucked up the courage to ask the question that had been at the forefront of her mind since Nick had texted her. “I know you’ve talked about proposing to Charlie for years but what made you decide to do it now?” She asked as Nick Sipped away at his latte.

“As you know I’m Char’s emergency contact and when I got that call from an unknown number my heart sank. Then my brain starts going into overdrive thinking of the worst case scenario; I genuinely thought he’d died. The more I replayed the phone call with Andrea in my head one thought kept reoccurring; I don’t want either of us to die being known as the other’s partner, I want us to be known as Husbands. Charlie’s everything to me, I want to be known as his husband not just his partner.”

Tara nodded supportively, her face speaking for her. She reached out and put her hand on the table for Nick to take which he does and she squeezes it. “I’m so proud of you for taking this step. Nobody deserves this more than you and Charlie. I’m so honoured to call you one of my best friends and I love you endlessly.”

Nick squeezed her hand back and just nodded with a smile, too overcome with emotion to reply but he knew Tara knew what he was thinking. He hugged her a little harder and rubbed her back when they said goodbye, Nick was so grateful for Tara’s presence in his life.

As Nick walked up the stairs to his flat it occurred to him that this might be one of the last times he walked into the flat as Charlie’s boyfriend…

Chapter Text

Epilogue:

Knowing his mum and Charlie were inside Nick didn’t bother getting his keys out of his satchel he just walked straight in. His mum was there with a welcoming hug and mug of tea and a plate of her homemade cookies, Nick smiled, it felt like being in secondary school again when he’d come home from school and the two of them would Talk about their days. Doing his best to keep his voice to a hushed whisper Nick explained to Sarah his plan and showed her the card he’d made with his class, naturally she smiled and agreed with his plan.

Together Nick and Sarah set up the kitchen ready to surprise Charlie who was currently napping in the living room blissfully unaware that his life was about to change. After being away for most of the day he couldn’t resist peeking into the living room and watching as Charlie napped so peacefully, Nick could feel the smile on his face. He loves his boyfriend more than anyone, even his dogs.

Whilst they waited for Charlie to wake up Nick and Sarah chatted about their days in the kitchen for an old times sake, of course being quiet to not distrub Charlie. It wasn’t long before they could hear him stirring and Nick took his cup of tea into the living room. He sat down on the couch and waited for Charlie to notice his presence.

“Missed you today.” Charlie said when he was more awake sitting up and resting his head on Nick’s shoulder. “How was work?”

Nick kissed his forehead gently before saying, “there’s tea and cookies on the kitchen counter. Let’s talk in there, I have a surprise for you.”

Feeling giddy with excitement Charlie stood up with help from Nick who was covering his eyes with one hand so Charlie couldn’t peek. It was a good thing Charlie’s eyes were covered because the excitement on Sarah’s face as she saw them entering the kitchen would’ve given it away in a heartbeat.

“Hey no peeking!” Nick said with a laugh as Charlie put a hand over his trying to pull it off his eyes. “I mean it!”

As Sarah heard them approaching she pulled out a chair ready for Charlie to sit down before making sure the card and ring box looked right on the table.

“Can I look now? Please?!” Charlie begged excitement in his voice the moment he sat Down, Nick giggled grateful that Charlie was feeling better.

“Go on then, I suppose so.” He pulled out a chair beside his boyfriend.

The joy was so evident on Charlie’s face the moment he saw the display on the table. Instantly he picked up the card and began to read it beaming from ear to ear carefully reading each word.

Eagerly nick watched Charlie open the card, he read each line with care as he slowly pieced together the message. Then he looked down at the table where the ring box sat before picking it up to open it.

“Yes, oh my god, yes!” Charlie exclaimed beaming, “of course I’ll marry you!!”

Nick’s eyes filled with tears as he pulled Charlie into a warm embrace being mindful of his stomach, he kissed his forehead repeatedly desperate to shoe the younger man just how much he loved him. Unbeknownst to the happy couple Sarah had been quietly filming them in the corner on her phone because she wanted to remember this moment forever and she knew they would too.