Archive of Our Own

"I need to write a list," Erik announced as he stepped into their tiny apartment.

"Another list? And what will this be about?" Charles asked, not even looking up from his book. 

The exams were upon them and both Charles and Erik were stressed all week, spending more time in the library than in their shared flat.

Erik put down his messenger bag with a groan and promptly fell down on the chair next to his boyfriend.

"At this point, I should write a list of my lists. I feel like my brain literally can't take any more information. Why did I choose to become an engineer?"

Charles put down his book with a sigh and turned to face his fuming boyfriend.

"You know there is no limit on the capacity of our brain's intake. So you can do it, darling. It's a scientifically proven fact."

Erik let out a noise that was between a grunt and a chuckle. 

"That was oddly comforting, thank you," he levitated his bag to himself by its iron clasp and pulled out a crumpled piece of paper.

"So. Essay due on Monday, check. The paper for Mechanical Engineering, check. Study for the upcoming Engineering Sciences exam... in progress," Erik rubbed his forehead with a groan. "This is hopeless. I am hopeless."

Charles stood up and walked behind Erik, wrapping his arms around his shoulders. 

"You are not. You are one of the most brilliant people I have ever met. You will pass all your exams because you are hardworking, determined and hella smart."

Erik rolled his head back to look up at Charles, smiling at him tiredly. "Thank you, Liebling."

They stayed like that for a while, Charles sliding his hands over Erik's tense shoulders and working on easing the knots in his muscles. Erik let out a loud and appreciative moan, immediately relaxing under his boyfriend's hands. 

"Mein Gott, that feels amazing."

"Exams will be over, and we will have weeks and weeks of peace over the winter break. Should we visit your mother this year too? Or should we go somewhere together, just us?"

Erik sighed, closing his eyes. "Chanukkah will be over by the time we finish our exams. But going away somewhere just the two of us sounds good. The fewer people, the better."

Charles chuckled at that, continuing to rub Erik's shoulder gently. "I had a feeling you would say that. Lucky for you, I know just the place."

"Should I write another list about the things we need to pack?" Erik asked with a grin.

"No need for lists, darling. We won't need much clothing."