Nick and Charlie 6 years into the future

nick i need to tell you something

Third person:

The cosy ambience of their shared home provided a familiar comfort to Nick and Charlie, who had navigated life together for seven years. They knew each other's quirks and rhythms, but lately, not even lately, but most of the time they've been dating something seemed different about Nick.

Charlie noticed subtle shifts in Nick's behavior—the way he grew increasingly restless when they were apart, the hesitant glances thrown toward the door whenever Charlie had to leave for work or errands.

Charlie had always thought it was just how Nick was, but concern threaded through Charlie's mind, prompting him to delve deeper into what might be causing Nick's unease.

One evening, as they lounged on the couch, Charlie couldn't ignore the persistent worry. He sidled closer to Nick, wrapping an arm around his shoulders.

"Hey, Nick, can we talk for a bit?" He asked softly

Nick turned toward Charlie, a flicker of surprise crossing his face at the serious tone.

"Of course, baby. What's up?"

"It's about us," Charlie said gently.

"W-what? Is it something bad?" Nick said, worrying

"No, no! It's nothing bad. I've been noticing something lately, and I want to make sure you're okay." Charlie said softly, playing with nick hair

"Okay..?" Nick says, a little confused

"Have you been feeling anxious when we're apart?" Charlie asked

Nick's eyes widened slightly, caught off guard by the directness of Charlie's question. He paused, contemplating how to respond.

"I... I guess I have. I just don't like it when you're not around. It feels... off."

Charlie nodded, recognizing the weight behind Nick's words.

"It's okay, Nick. You know, it's possible you might have separation anxiety."

Nick's brows furrowed, a mix of confusion and relief colouring his expression.

"Separation anxiety? But what does that mean?"

"It means feeling really anxious or stressed when we're apart," Charlie explained gently. "And it's alright, Nick. You're not alone in this. We're in this together, and there are ways we can work through it."

Nick sighed, a mixture of emotions swirling within him.

"I didn't realize... I mean, I knew something was off, but I didn't know it had a name." The revelation felt both daunting and comforting at the same time.

Charlie pulled Nick closer, enveloping him in a reassuring hug.

"We'll figure this out together, alright? I'm here for you, no matter what."

Nick leaned into Charlie's embrace, feeling a sense of relief wash over him. Having Charlie by his side to navigate this newfound understanding of his emotions was a balm to his soul.

"Thank you, Charlie," Nick whispered, his voice filled with gratitude. "For noticing, for understanding, for being here."

"Of course, my darling," charlie said, planting a soft kiss on nicks head. "I'll always be here."

Nick smiles, knowing his boyfriend will try to help every step of the way

"Nick, have you thought about maybe talking to a doctor or a therapist about what you've been feeling?" Charlie's words were gentle, filled with a genuine desire to help.

"I-i don't know," nicks stutter

"Well, you don't have to think about it now, but you can think about it for a few days."

Nicks pov:

A few days later charlie and I sat in the kitchen together in a comfortable silence.

I felt the weight of Charlie's concern and care as we sat together, the soft hum of the evening enveloping us.

His suggestion wasn't unexpected, yet it felt like a monumental step—one that I wasn't sure I was ready for.

"Have you thought about going to the doctor yet?" Charlie asks me

The idea of confiding in someone outside our private world felt unnerving, despite knowing deep down that it might bring clarity and relief.

"I... I don't know, Charlie," I replied hesitantly, trying to articulate the swirling thoughts in my mind. "It's just... a lot to consider."

Charlie reached for my hand, his touch grounding me in our shared reality. "I understand, Nick. But think about it—not as something that's wrong, but as an opportunity to understand and manage what you're going through."

His words resonated within me, a beacon of reassurance amid the uncertainty.

I knew he was right, that seeking professional help might offer insights and tools to navigate the unease I felt when we were apart.

"It's just scary, you know?" I admitted, vulnerability colouring my voice.

"We can take it slow, Nick," Charlie reassured me, his eyes reflecting unwavering support. "I'll be there every step of the way. We can search together and find someone you're comfortable with."

His unwavering presence provided a comforting embrace, easing the trepidation I felt about delving into the unknown.

With Charlie by my side, I realized that seeking help wasn't a solitary journey—it was an exploration we'd navigate together.

"Okay," I finally conceded, a glimmer of determination emerging. "I'll try."

In that shared moment, the decision was made—not without reservations but grounded in the assurance of Charlie's steadfast support.

With his hand in mine, we embarked on a path toward seeking professional guidance, a step I hoped would lead to a deeper understanding of myself and a newfound sense of peace.