Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Charlie set down his brushes with a big exhale as Stephen announced "Artists, your time is up."

"Put down your materials and step away from your easels," said Joan, her polished voice easily carrying through the museum foyer.

Charlie looked critically at his painting of Daniel Radcliffe. Once he had gotten over the shock of the famous sitter, he found the angular jawline and piercing blue eyes suited his slightly abstracted grayscale style. He'd even picked a bright blue underpainting today based on the lighting of the space and the background. He was very happy with the jaw and nose, but didn't quite think he'd captured the mystery of the eyebrows. It still exuded a calm yet intense focus that he was very happy with. He'd been a great sitter, maintaining a pose and expression between occasional bits of banter with the artists. More than any of the sitters so far, he had an intense presence, a sense of awareness of exactly who he was and the people around him.

As all the artists cleaned brushes and tidied up their stations, Charlie looked around. The hosts were talking to Daniel as he stood and stretched after his surprisingly physical task of sitting still for four hours. Charlie overheard Daniel telling Kate that apparently he hadn't taken any peeks during the breaks, so the reveal would be a total surprise. Charlie was a fairly fastidious painter, keeping everything organized and aligned as he worked. He also only had a few tubes out, preferring to mix his grays on the fly from titanium white and Paris black, only occasionally coming in with colored highlights. The producers checked in to make sure everyone was ready for the reveals.

"All right, artists," said Joan. "Please turn your easels." Charlie took a deep breath and turned his easel around as everyone else did.

"Wow. Just wow," said Daniel. "There's so many different styles. It's a bit disconcerting to be looking at myself in so many different ways at once. Well done, all of you."

He walked along the line of easels, giving feedback as he looked at each painting. At Elle's painting, he commented on how well she had captured his eyebrows. "I do have quite enigmatic eyebrows, I've been told." Elle was a realistic watercolorist, but Charlie was impressed by how well she had captured the dark, wavy hair and the crooked shadows of the slightly furrowed brow. Then, Daniel Radcliffe was standing right next to Charlie Spring and he wasn't sure he remembered how to breathe.

"Your style is fascinating. I really like how you've really focused the color in my eyes but there are also traces of it in the shadows. Every time I look at it, I find something new to look at. It's my face, but also somehow more than that."

"Thank you," said Charlie automatically. Even when his brain was short circuiting, he usually managed to be polite. Years of conditioning, he guessed.

After talking to the last artist, Daniel went back to stand by Stephen. "So, Daniel, which one of these paintings do you want to take home with you?"

"There are some astonishing pieces here, and I'm honored to have seen them all. But the one that I think I can look at every day and still find more to see is that one." Daniel pointed at Charlie's painting. Everyone clapped as he came over to shake Charlie's hand, leaving him flabbergasted.

Everyone was shuffled outside while the judges deliberated for a cup of tea and the obligatory conversations with the cameraman. "There's some really good stuff there- I don't have my hopes too high," said Charlie to the interviewer. "I really hope Elle makes it. Her work was really exceptional today."

Elle came over after her interview to hug Charlie. "Oh my God, Charlie! Your painting is going to be in his house! Ahh!"

Charlie grinned. "But you captured his enigmatic eyebrows! You got a much better likeness than I did. I think Tai and Kathleen are going to really go for yours."

"But you know Kate is a sucker for a modern interpretation! And didn't Tai come over and tell you the way you were applying paint was, I quote, yummy?"

"Sure, but that doesn't mean anything," said Charlie shrugged. "It's out of our hands at this point."

Tea consumed and snacks eaten, and the judge's decisions apparently made, the producers herded everyone back into the gallery. They were directed at tape marks on the floor, the lights and cameras staged for the announcement to come.

Joan spoke first. "Thank you all for sharing your paintings with us today. Every one of you is an exceptionally talented artist and you have all done a fantastic job."

Stephen stepped forward. "Unfortunately, only three of you can go through to the final, and the judges have made their decision. The artists they have chosen displayed courage, curiosity and above all, a deep sense of the sitter's energy. The first of those finalists is… Elle Argent."

Elle reached over and grabbed Charlie's hands, squealing, before politely bowing.

"And the second finalist is… Keith Smith," announced Joan to polite applause and nodding. Keith was a very classical oil painter, his version of Daniel making him look like he had just stepped out of the 17th century in modern clothes.

"And the third finalist," said Stephen, "is Charlie Spring." Elle gave him a huge hug as he stared dumbfounded at the presenters.

"You did it!" she said, clapping enthusiastically.

"Congratulations to our finalists and commiserations to the rest. You have worked hard, and we enjoyed watching you work," said Joan.

After allowing a few rounds of congratulations, the camera people herded the three finalists over to film their final interviews.

"I am just… overwhelmed?" Charlie heard himself say. "One of my paintings is going to be in Daniel Radcliffe's house? How is this happening?"

"How does it feel to be the only amateur heading into the finals?" asked Stephen.

"I can't even think about the finals yet," he said, shaking his head. "I'm still just in shock about today."

Charlie found himself fidgeting with his hair. He usually did when he was nervous, and as a side effect, typically had at least two colors of paint in his dark curls at all times. It wasn't so bad when he worked in acrylics, but getting oil paints out was a real pain. It was part of why he had made the switch. That, and inadequate ventilation in his apartment to feel safe with turpentine.

With all the post interviews done, the crew started breaking down the lights. The producers ushered the three finalists into a side room to discuss the next phase of the competition.

"So the final comes in two parts - we will have all three of you painting the same sitter over six hours, as well as arranging for each of you to work with a specific sitter over the next three weeks to give you time to show us what you can achieve beyond the time limits of the format. As you probably know from watching the show, you'll work with your individual sitter first before the group day, so that all of the work can be judged at one time. You will find out your sitter in advance, but not today. Your packet has the schedule details. Any questions? None? Good," they said briskly, leaving no actual time for questions.

Charlie and Elle looked at each other and burst out laughing. "What's so funny?" asked Keith.

"Elle dared me to enter, and I only agreed to enter if she did," said Charlie.

"And somehow we're both in the finals!" said Elle.

Keith smiled. "Well, congratulations to you both. I've really loved both of your paintings and I have no idea how they're going to make a decision. We have such different styles!"

"Totally!" said Elle. "But that's the fun of something like this - you really get to see how wide art can really be."

"Is there anyone you're hoping to get for your sitter?" asked Keith.

"As long as it's not a sports lad, I'm happy," said Charlie. "I don't have a great history with jocks."

"Nerdy type?"

"Gay nerd at that," sighed Charlie. Keith nodded, understanding, as Elle gave Charlie a side hug.

"Well, best of luck to you both. I'm knackered!" Keith waved as he walked away. Elle's home buzzed as her boyfriend Tao texted.

"He's out front with the car. Ready to go?" asked Elle.

"I could sleep for a week," said Charlie, yawning."

"Unfortunately, looks like our next call time is bright and early Monday, so you've got one day to laze around before we have to do the next big thing," said Elle.

"Is it too late to back out?" asked Charlie. Elle teasingly punched him.

"Way too late!"

Chapter Text

Nick's agent Darcy was on the other end of the line, waiting for him to respond.

"Will you do it?"

"But why me?"

"Ok, let's go through this one more time. The Leeds Library wants to commission a portrait of you for their new young adult library wing because as an author AND a famous rugby player, you make reading cool. Plus you helped them raise literally millions of pounds in order to be able to have the space in the first place."

"I'm not that famous," grumbled Nick.

"That is a lie, Mister 2.2 million Insta followers," retorted Darcy.

"But a portrait? That seems so… old."

"Have you seen the show Nick? There's a lot of cool young contemporary artists. It's a big honor to be asked. As your agent, I think you should do this."

"What about as my friend?"

"You should definitely do it, because your mum will love it."

"Oh, the mum card is a low blow, Darce. But you're right, she would love it."

"Are you going to do it?"

"Yes," he grumbled. "But I refuse to pose nude."

Darcy cackled. "This is for Sky, not Channel 4 after the watershed. Portrait Artist of the Year is hardly Naked Attraction. Though, if you're interested…"

"No! No no no no. That's worse than trying to get me to do Strictly!"

"One of these days, I'm going to get you to dance on television, Nicholas, and it will be amazing." Darcy held out the second a in amazing for at least three seconds.

"I don't have time for it, anyway. I have a manuscript due in six weeks."

"It's literally only a few hours. You just have to sit there and look pretty and hold a pose. Maybe have a nice chat with someone. You can handle it."

"Fine, I'll do it." He held the phone away from his ear as Darcy squealed at him.

"Ok, since the library is commissioning it, they'll get to give the artist some guidance on what they want, but I can set you up with a meeting with Mr. Henderson to discuss it first."

"That would be great. I have no idea what I should wear for a portrait anyway. Otherwise I might just show up in my game day kit."

"There are enough pictures of you in rugby gear in the world already. But we'll probably have the artist come to your place, since you've got that gorgeous garden. I'll send Tara over to spruce things up first."

"Ok, fine. Let me know when I'm supposed to meet with Mr. Henderson."

"Yay! You're the best!"

"Bye Darcy," Nick sighed.

"Byyyyyeeeeee!"

Nick dropped his phone on the counter and rubbed his temples. Darcy was a great agent, but sometimes she was a lot. On the other hand, Darcy had helped him navigate his double career and while he wasn't out, it was his choice now instead of being forced by his agent. Darcy was prepared whenever he changed his mind with her ridiculous code name binder plans. She had watched Parks and Rec at some point and imprinted heavily on Leslie Knope as a professional role model. Nick just didn't see much point in coming out when he had no real intentions of dating. Why give the media more reasons to invade his privacy?

He had started writing when he stopped trying to keep up with the other rugby lads at the pub scene in uni. He would go out for a few pints, and instead of going home with a girl, he would go home and type. Tara had read some of his short stories and encouraged him to find a literary agent. When his first book was accepted, Nick had been shocked. He was just writing the stories he wished he'd had when he was younger, where boys and girls were allowed to be friends platonically, expressing emotions freely was encouraged, and they got to stop the alien invasion and avoid the apocalypse altogether. The critics had been incredibly kind, he thought, and somehow one book had turned into 5 with a sixth on the way.

Now that he played rugby full time, he mostly wrote during the off season or on the team bus. The Google Docs app was his new best friend. Some of the older players had asked him to sign books for his kids, but the younger ones teased him about his lack of love life and unusual second career. And sometimes, yeah, he was lonely. But was it wrong to want romance? Was it wrong to want someone he could be friends with? Maybe it was old-fashioned, but Nick wanted to meet someone, not just get picked up on some dating app, or have yet another weirdo slide into his DMs (which he had since turned off on his main account).

His phone pinged as Darcy emailed him the details of his meeting with the library director. Nick added it to his calendar and decided to hit the gym for a bit before sitting down to write. He was hung up on how to get his characters past security to sneak into the room where the book they needed was stored, and the endorphins helped him think.

The next morning, Nick walked into Mr. Henderson's office wearing dark chinos and a forest green button up shirt. He knocked politely on the door. "Mr. Henderson?"

"Please, I've told you before, call me Isaac." A surprisingly young man in a soft beige jumper grinned at Nick from behind a big wooden desk. "Darcy said you wanted to talk about the portrait."

"Yeah, I was hoping to get an idea of what you are expecting. I was very surprised when they told me about it."

"I'm not sure why. You've been incredibly philanthropically involved with our organization and you're one of the more famous authors in Leeds these days."

"So you're looking for author Nick rather than rugby Nick?"

Isaac cocked his head. "No, we're hoping to capture Nick Nelson, a whole person. You're very interesting, you know."

Nick rubbed the back of his neck. "I'm really not. I play rugby, I go home alone, I write. That's about it."

Isaac lifted an eyebrow. "I think you sell yourself short. But these artists are always very good. You should watch some of the past seasons - I think that will help you get a sense for the process. All you have to do is listen to your artist and approach it with an open mind."

"But what am I supposed to wear?" moaned Nick. "Normally someone just tells me what to do for these things!"

Isaac laughed. "Wear what makes you feel like the best version of you, Nick."

"I'm not sure who that even is anymore," he sighed.

"Try 158.1 in nonfiction," said Isaac dryly. “Sorry, librarian jokes. That's the Dewey Decimal for Mental Heath and Self Help. But trust in the process! And remember, it's a painting for the YA section of the library. No one expects you to pose nude.”

Nick blushed. "I may have been worried about that."

Issac gave him a critical look. "While it wouldn't suit our space, I don't think you have anything to worry about. And I say that as a total asexual."

"How is the new area?"

"It's looking very nice. The timing worked out such that we're going to hold off on the ribbon cutting a few extra weeks so that we can present the portrait at the same time. Darcy has it on your calendar."

"Oh, ok. Good to know." Nick didn't do many public appearances, but he trusted Darcy enough to know he shouldn't try to weasel his way out of this one.

Isaac smiled. "Is there anything else I can do for you?"

Nick shook his head. "No, I don't think so. I really appreciate you taking the time to talk to me."

Isaac smiled, standing up from his desk. "Any time."

Chapter Text

Charlie arrived at a small park in Leeds at the prescribed time, spotting the producer and cameraman waiting for him. He gave a small wave, walking over to a bench with a white envelope waiting.

"Please wait to open the envelope on camera - we're looking for a genuine reaction. Then read it out loud for the camera, and feel free to talk about how you feel about your subject."

Charlie nodded. "Sort of like Taskmaster. My time starts now," he laughed. The producer laughed and nodded, starting the countdown for speeding.

Charlie opened his envelope delicately, clearing his throat. "Your commission is to paint the portrait of pro-rugby player and popular young adult author, Nicholas Nelson" Above the words was a photo of the man in question, soft almost ginger hair falling over his forehead as he posed in his rugby kit for some sort of team headshot. Great, Charlie thought. Just what I need - forced to spend time with a rugby lad. Haven't they already made my life miserable enough already? Wait, author? "Wait, is the Nick Nelson of the Lights and Shadows books? They're one of my go to recommendations for parents trying to get their kids into reading. I don't think I knew he was a rugby player, though." Charlie chuckled. "I do live under a rather nerdy rock. Apparently I should read the author bios more often."

The cameraman suppressed a laugh at Charlie's comment.

"Great, we got it," said the producer whose name Charlie still hadn't managed to learn. "We're going to head over to the Leeds Library to meet with their director and talk about what they're looking for with this commission. Come on," they waved, walking off briskly. Charlie followed behind, the cameraman trailing to get some wide angle B roll shots. It was a glorious early fall day, crisp and cool with the leaves starting to turn. Charlie got distracted by a particularly lovely oak tree that was backlit, leading to the most gorgeous dappled light on the sidewalk. The producer turned, waiting impatiently, but knowing this kind of footage would be great to splice in later. “Come on, we don’t want to be late.”

“So sorry, coming!” Charlie shoved his hands into his pockets and scampered to catch up. The arrived at the front doors of the library where a youngish man in a soft lavender jumper, tweed jacket and gold-rimmed glasses was waiting to greet them.

“Charlie, this is Isaac Henderson, the director of the Leeds Library, who are commissioning this portrait. What we’d like you to do here is ask him some questions about what they’re looking for, take a look at the space, all the stuff. Whatever you think you’ll need to know in advance - we’re just going to tag along and film, and maybe direct you to stand in different lighting, but you’re mostly in control here.”

“Ok, thanks.”

“Isaac, if you could introduce yourself for the camera quickly?” said the producer.

“Sure thing.” Isaac paused momentarily. “Hi Charlie, I’m Isaac Henderson, I’m the director of the Leeds Library. We’ve recently remodeled our young adult wing, in part thanks to significant donations and fundraising efforts from our local rugby star and author, Nick Nelson.” Isaac was clearly more prepared for this than Charlie was.

“Can you tell me a bit about what you’re thinking of for this commission?” asked Charlie.

“We’re really hoping for something more dynamic and modern, but still very welcoming. Part of our mission is to make books and reading exciting and approachable to a wide audience, and it only makes sense to also bring art to a wider audience without making it so… fuddy-duddy. Seeing your work from the rest of the competition, especially your self-portrait submission, I’m really excited to see what you can do.”

Charlie blushed slightly at the praise. “Modern I think I can do - can you show me the space where the painting will go? While I’ll certainly consider Nick, I’d like the colors of the space around it to inform the painting as well.”

“Absolutely. Follow me please,” said Issac, gesturing for everyone to follow him. Entering the library, they were greeted by an ornate white entryway. “As you can see, we certainly have the more classical style covered. Over there, we have a bust of one of our historic patrons. Leeds is one of the last proprietary subscription libraries, rather than public, but it really allows us certain… freedoms in our collection choices. Young adult and queer fiction has really been a focus in recent years for us.”

“Really?” asked Charlie. “That’s so cool! I actually work in a bookstore, but trying to get more LGBTQ+ stuff on the shelves is always a battle.” Issac nodded understanding, coming to a stop in front of an area painted in a gentle pale yellow, with a literal rainbow of bookshelves, comfortable chairs and desks. Above the entryway were simply the words "Young Adult". As they entered the space, Issac turned towards a large open space on the wall.

"Here's the space you have to work with. Obviously, you don't need to do something enormous to fill it, but this is the first artwork we're bringing into this part of the library."

Charlie nodded. "Do you mind if I take some reference photos?" He held up a tablet.

"Not at all."

Isaac and the cameraman stood back and watched as Charlie tried to capture the essence of the space. Unlike the dark library of the illicit meet ups of his school years, it was an open, welcoming space, but clearly also a space for young people.

"You know, this is so different from my school library. I think if it had been a space like this, things might have gone differently?"

"What do you mean?" asked Issac.

"Well, the art room was really my safe space in school. Mr. Ajayi is why I became a painter. He was the only openly supportive teacher when I was outed."

Isaac nodded. "Well, I hope we can be that safe space here for others. Shall we go to my office to talk a bit more about Nick?"

"That sounds excellent," said Charlie, with approving nods from the producer.

As they settled down and let the cameraman find the best angle, Charlie pulled out a small notebook. The cameraman gave the thumbs up that he was ready to roll.

"So you mentioned earlier that Nick has been a big patron of this library. Is there anything else you think I should know?" asked Charlie.

"While Nick is famous as a rugby player, I really think his legacy will be as an author," said Issac. "He's really quite sensitive and thoughtful and his ability to convey complex concepts to a younger audience is frankly remarkable. But it can take a bit for him to open up and let new people see the real Nick."

Charlie nodded. "Well, Issac, thank you so much for your time, and I really hope that I can produce a piece that is worthy of this honor."

They stood and shook hands. Turning to the producer, Charlie asked "Now what?"

"Tonight, you go to the hotel and tomorrow you come back in the same outfit and we go meet your sitter."

Charlie's heart zinged with anxiety. He paused to take a deep breath. It was just another painting. Just because his sitter was unbelievably gorgeous and apparently had a heart of gold underneath all those muscles… Charlie felt heat rising in his cheeks.

"Trust in your process. Don't get caught up in who they're supposed to be, just work with the person in front of you, alright? You're scheduled for a minimum of two hours, but his agent tells me his plans for the day are flexible, so if it winds up being a longer session, that's fine. I've got to handle one of the other contestants tomorrow, so it'll just be you and Owen, alright? The address is on the call sheet, as is Owen's number and Nick's agent's contact information."

The cameraman, apparently Owen, waved, making Charlie laugh.

The next morning, Charlie and Owen were standing in front of a surprisingly small house in a quiet neighborhood of Leeds, both wondering if the call sheet was wrong. Weren't pro-rugby players supposed to have lavish lives and fancy cars and… Charlie wasn't sure, he didn't follow sports. They shrugged and rang the doorbell.

A large man with almost ginger hair answered the door wearing a simple but exceptionally well fitted turquoise athletic shirt and dark gray slacks.

"Hi," he said, smiling.

"Hi," said Charlie, totally entranced by golden brown eyes.

Chapter Text

Nick swallowed hard. He had expected an artist, not a work of art, at his door. He stared at the dark, curly haired man in front of him, falling into deep blue eyes. He'd always had a bit of a type, but Nick had never been so instantly drawn to someone. His reverie was disrupted by a polite cough from the other person at his door. Long eyelashes fluttered as they blinked rapidly. "Um, hi. I'm Charlie, and this is Owen the cameraman. Can we come in?"

"Oh yeah. Please, come in." Nick stepped back, letting them into a surprisingly warm and cozy home. Charlie looked around and took in the little touches, like the painting on the wall clearly done at one of those sip and paint night places, and the handmade quilt draped over the couch. "Tara suggested going out into the garden, if you want natural light, but it's a bit chilly today and I didn't know if you'd rather be indoors so I guess just let me know where you want and what you need me to do and I'll do it. Really. Anything you want."

Charlie smirked, his dimples appearing. Nick felt his knees melting.

"Anything?" teased Charlie. Nick blushed and Charlie laughed. "Sorry, just trying to break the ice." Looking around the space, he spotted the large window in the kitchen.

"I'd like to take a few photos first of you just existing in your space, and then move on to some sketching and posing. Do you spend much time in your kitchen?"

"Oh my goodness, I haven't even offered you a cup of tea! My mum raised me better, I swear!" said Nick. "Would either of you like a cuppa?"

"Yes please," said Owen.

"Absolutely. Can I take some photos while you make tea?"

"Sure!" said Nick. He went over to the sink to fill the kettle, gazing out the window at his garden. Charlie quietly snapped photos, trying not to disturb the routine. Putting the kettle on, Nick went to the cabinets, pulling out the tea bags and several mugs. "How do you take your tea?"

"Three sugars," said Owen.

"One sugar and just a splash of milk," said Charlie. Nick nodded, getting out the sugar bowl and milk jug. "So, do you mostly make tea, or do you cook at all?"

"Actually, I bake a lot," said Nick. "It used to be what I did when I was stressed, but it's hard to take it on the road. That's part of why I took up writing."

Charlie found a stool and perched, taking another photo as Nick filled the mugs, concentrating on the boiling water.

"You mentioned a Tara earlier. Is she… someone special?" Charlie asked tentatively.

"Oh, no, Tara's not my girlfriend. Just a friend who's a girl. Her wife is my agent, actually."

Charlie was relieved, though he wouldn't admit it. After all, author or no, Nick was still a rugby lad and probably a ginormous heterosexual. And just because Tara wasn't his girlfriend didn't mean there wasn't someone else, and they'd probably never speak again after this sitting. Nick distributed the cups of tea. Charlie took a polite sip.

"They really helped me come to terms with my sexuality," said Nick, carefully watching Charlie, who suddenly sputtered and coughed.

"Sorry, I didn't mean.." stammered Charlie.

Nick chuckled. "I know, I know."

Owen coughed politely, reminding the two that he was still there with the camera, lifting a questioning eyebrow.

Nick back peddled slightly - as much as he wanted to drop hints for Charlie, this was not exactly how he was planning on his public coming out. Having it be as a side bit in a reality TV show was not exactly a good idea. "Oh, right. Thanks," said Nick, rubbing his neck nervously. He needed to change the subject. "Do you want to see the garden first?"

"Sure!" said Charlie, trying to get his blush under control. Nick's garden was as comforting as the rest of his home, with maple trees in one corner and a mix of rose bushes and hydrangeas. He posed Nick for a few photos outside, trying to capture the dappled light under the trees, talking about the different plants and bugs and their childhood homes.

Charlie shivered slightly, getting chilly in the crisp air. "Sorry for making you come outside without a jumper. It's a bit chilly," said Charlie.

"I don't mind, I run hot," said Nick. Charlie thought yes, yes you do, but managed to not say it out loud.

"Can we go inside and do some sketches now? I'd like you to sit in the kitchen, I think. It's got very nice light."

"Lead the way," said Nick, gesturing for Charlie to go first.

"It's your house," said Charlie.

"One of you go, I have to be last either way," grumbled Owen, shivering slightly. Nick and Charlie turned at the same time and bumped into each other.

"Sorry," said Charlie.

"You say sorry a lot, you know," said Nick.

"Sorry."

"Don't say it."

"Well now I kind of want to say it," giggled Charlie.

"Nope, you are banned from saying the s-word," said Nick. He opened the door for Charlie and followed him into the house. Charlie posed him on the stool, and began to sketch as he and Nick talked about families, pets, careers, whatever. The conversation flowed freely and Charlie was glad for the excuse to stare. Nick's lips in particular fascinated him, the little asymmetric quirky smile he had whenever Charlie said something funny or cute.

"Ok guys, I know Nick's schedule is flexible, but I'm only on the clock for another 15 minutes. Can we do some sketch reveals?" asked Owen.

"Oh, sure!" said Charlie. "I didn't realize it had been that long already. Actually, I have to meet my sister for dinner tonight since I'm up here already."

"Oh, ok," said Nick. He wasn't sure why he was disappointed. Ok, he knew why, but still. It wasn't like him to feel this strongly this quickly.

Owen counted them down.

"So Nick, here's what I've got so far." He turned his sketchbook. He had several different studies of Nick, trying to capture him in fewer lines, looking for the essence of his face.

Nick look over the pictures, his face lighting up with a broad smile. "Oh wow! You're really talented, Charlie. I think you're making me look better than I really do, though. I can't wait to see the final painting!"

Charlie smiled. "I just hope I can do the subject justice." There was a longish pause as they just smiled at one another.

"Ok, got it. I'm going to go ahead and pack up," said Owen.

"Thanks, mate," said Nick. "Sorry if we kind of ignored you."

"Makes it easier to do my job, actually. Though we'll see how much footage is left if they don't include the flirting," he chuckled. "But they don't need much for these segments, so you should be fine." Owen vanished with a wave.

"So. Umm," said Charlie. "Sorry about that."

"I thought we banned that word?"

"No, you deserve an apology. You don't need some random gay guy hitting on you. It was super unprofessional of me, and I apologize. Especially if it screws up the footage or makes you uncomfortable."

"Please. Don't apologize. I definitely didn't mind."

"You sure?" asked Charlie, startled.

"If anyone was being unprofessional, it was me. Really. I should be the one of us more aware of the whole… camera thing." Nick swallowed and ran his hand through his hair. "Um. You can tell me no, but can I get your number?" Nick didn't know what had come over him. What was he doing, asking for someone's number? He couldn't remember the last time he'd been this bold.

"Absolutely," said Charlie. "Here, put your number in my phone and I'll text you," he said, handing over his phone. Nick quickly typed his number in and sent himself a message before handing Charlie his phone back.

"Let me show you to the door," said Nick.

Charlie smiled at him. "I don't know, I might get lost on the way in your giant rugby mansion." Well, geographically lost. Charlie was already a lost cause as far as his heart was concerned.

Nick laughed. "What can I say, I live a lavish lifestyle. You should see my car."

"What do you drive? A Lamborghini?"

"Oh no, they didn't have one in the right color. I drive a Mini, actually."

Charlie burst out laughing. "You are a man of many layers, Mr. Nelson."

Nick grinned as he opened the doors. "Like ogres. Or onions. Or parfaits."

"Did you just reference Shrek?" groaned Charlie.

"Maybe I did."

Charlie's phone buzzed. "Crap, that's Tori. I've gotta run before my sister thinks I'm avoiding her. Have a good night!"

"You too!" Nick stood in the doorway and waved as Charlie walked away briskly. He couldn't wait to see him again. Wait. Where did Charlie even live? How was he going to see him again? Nick chewed his lower lip nervously. Would it be too much to text already? Screw it, he was texting.

[Nick] I can't wait to see the painting x

Charlie looked at the tiny x on his phone and smiled.

[Charlie] I hope you like it ❤️

Chapter Text

Charlie arrived at the Italian restaurant to meet up with Tori for dinner with a smile still on his face.

"So good day, then?" she asked, completely skipping the typical greetings and social niceties.

"Yeah, I think so," said Charlie a little dreamily. "Too bad it can't go anywhere, though."

"What can't go anywhere?"

"Oh, just a silly crush," said Charlie dismissively.

Tori sipped her lemonade and waited. Years of being Charlie's confidant had taught her there was always much more going on under the surface, but prying was far less effective than just waiting for the dam to crack.

"Oh God, how am I going to survive spending the next two weeks just staring at his stupid handsome face?" Charlie buried his face in his hands.

"I take it your commission is for someone you find attractive?"

"And worse, he's incredibly nice."

"And that's a bad thing?"

"I mean, he's a famous rugby player who plays in Leeds and I'm a gay nerd who works at a bookstore in London."

"That's hardly an insurmountable distance," said Tori. "Is he straight?"

"Maybe. Probably? I don't know. There were… moments? When we were talking. Where maybe it seemed like he was possibly flirting?"

"Are you ever going to see him again?"

Charlie sighed. "Besides when I have to stare at his face for the next two weeks to paint it? I doubt it. He asked for my number, but I think he just wants to see the painting."

"Hmmm."

"What?"

"I don't think you're never going to see him again."

Charlie shrugged. Tori, despite her often flat and sarcastic tone, was much more optimistic about Charlie’s chances than he ever was. After all, why would someone that gorgeous and successful be interested in him? There was no way he had a chance with Nick, straight or not. Unfortunately, Charlie specialized in hopeless crushes that would lead nowhere, or finding terrible relationships with nothing in between the two awful options. Just then, Charlie's phone buzzed.

[Nick] I wish I got to keep this painting - I checked out your Insta and you do amazing work

He swiped over to Instagram and his art account. nick_nzzzz followed you

Charlie immediately followed back and opened his text messages.

[Charlie] once the show is over, you can always commission something yourself 😉

[Nick] I might have to!

"Was that him?"

"Shut up! How's the famous athlete non boyfriend in your life, anyway?"

"Michael's got a competition in Denmark this week."

"Well, tell him good luck."

"Tell him yourself," said Tori. “You have his number.”

Tori and Charlie kept chatting as their food arrived, before parting so Charlie could catch a train back to his flat in London and start painting. Feeling brave and a little bit bored on the train, Charlie decided to follow Nick back on his private account as well. A few minutes later, he was pleasantly surprised to get the notification nick_nzzzz has requested to follow you . He quickly accepted, and started scrolling through Nick's photos before realizing he should probably use this time on the train to go through the photos he had taken of Nick instead.

The man was unbelievably gorgeous, but what Charlie loved most was the way his eyes crinkled when he was truly happy. He found a picture from the kitchen where Nick was grinning, his hand on his neck showing off his muscular forearm, lit in golden light from the sun coming in the window. This was it, this was the pose he wanted to use. He kept flipping through his photos, pausing occasionally to just absorb for a moment. Little crush? Maybe it had been when he walked in the door. Now he was studying every freckle and wrinkle of Nick's face, not simply to paint it, but to store it in his heart.

His phone pinged. Nick had liked a photo he had taken months ago with his cat Rupert, a little black and white kitten. Charlie smiled. Clearly someone was scrolling back through his profile. Feeling brave and a little optimistic, he decided to message Nick.

[Charlie] do you like cats?

[Nick] I love all animals!

[Nick] I grew up with dogs, though

[Nick] my brother David claimed to be allergic to cats

[Charlie] my parents never let us have pets growing up

[Nick] you mentioned dinner with your sister do you have any other siblings?

[Charlie] a younger brother, Oliver

[Charlie] he just started uni

[Nick] that's so cool!

[Nick] but I should probably let you get back to your evening

[Nick] I don't want to impose!

[Charlie] I'm just on the train back to London

[Charlie] I already looked through the photos I took earlier

[Nick] any good ones?

[Charlie] like it's even possible to take a bad photo of you!

[Nick] did you scroll through my Insta? So many photographers want me to look serious and manly and I just turn out looking grumpy and constipated

Charlie laughed out loud, earning a dirty look from a woman with a toddler passed out on her lap. "Sorry!" he stage whispered.

[Charlie] I promise no grumpy constipated Nick here

[Charlie] only adorable sunshines

[Charlie] Attached: 1 image

[Charlie] See?

He sent one of the shots he didn't intend to use of Nick out in the garden looking at a particularly interesting bug with an absolutely gleeful expression.

[Nick] wow, you're a great photographer too!

[Nick] I wish I was that talented!

[Charlie] wooooww, so being a professional athlete and author isn't enough for you??

[Nick] that's not what I meant

[Nick] I mean…

[Charlie] I'm just teasing

[Charlie] seriously, is there anything you aren't good at?

[Nick] I have absolutely no musical ability

[Nick] my agent keeps trying to get me on Strictly but I have no rhythm

[Charlie] is this a bad time to tell you I play the drums?

[Nick] that's so cool!

[Nick] drums are like, the hottest instrument!

Charlie felt himself blushing. Was Nick trying to flirt? He wished they'd been able to talk more earlier, when Owen had reminded them he was filming. He knew Nick wasn't publicly out - a quick Google showed that. But that didn't mean he was straight. Bisexual people exist, right? But also he was just so nice that it was hard to tell.

[Nick] as much as I want to keep chatting, I have an early morning training session tomorrow

[Nick] text me so I know you get home safe? x

[Charlie] absolutely!

[Charlie] good night! x

Charlie tried not to be disappointed that the conversation had ended, instead focusing on the little x at the end of Nick's last message. He leaned back in his seat and looked out the train window into the blurry darkness. He wasn't sure what he had expected from this experience, but not this.

He finally made it back to his flat around 1 in the morning. Unlocking the door, he remembered to pull out his phone and text Tori and Nick that he had arrived safely. It was nice to have people that cared. He set his alarm and flopped onto his bed, purring cat cuddled on the pillow next to him. He closed his eyes and dreamed of Nick's smile.

Chapter Text

In the morning, Charlie woke up to the blaring of his alarm around 8 am, yawning as he wandered blearily into his tiny kitchen to make coffee and toast. Looking at his phone, he found a message from Nick at 5am.

[Nick] glad you are home safe - time to hit the gym here!

He had also included a selfie of himself in his work out gear, arm behind his head to show off his biceps. Charlie blinked. Was he still dreaming? Nick was certainly turning out to be full of layers.

Nursing his steaming elixir of life, or at least caffeine, Charlie stared at the blank canvas in front of him, occupying most of his living space so that the montage camera could be placed and get the best light. While he knew what reference he wanted to work on, he was struggling with his underpainting choices. A rosy pink, like his blushing cheeks? A burnt umber, like freckles across his face? A warm golden yellow, like his inner sunshine? Or a deep sea green for the hidden ocean underneath the surface of the rugby lad?

Charlie looked at the photos of the space Issac had shown him. While it was mostly warm tones, anything but muted earth tones was going to work with the design choices already in the space. It was too much freedom. He had too much time, too much canvas, too many options. There was no way he could do this. He felt himself rapidly spiraling when his phone pinged.

[Nick] tell Rupert hi for me! 😻

Charlie laughed, distracted, picking up the cat conveniently weaving between his feet, and sent a quick selfie to Nick. He hoped his hair was more cute than chaotic this morning.

[Charlie] 90% of people can't tell the difference between this boy and this cat!

[Nick] both cute!

[Nick] I'll let you get on with painting now

[Charlie] quick question first: what's your favorite color?

Maybe he could get some help making color choices from his subject.

[Nick] oh wow

[Nick] that's a really hard one, actually

[Nick] growing up, I always said blue

[Nick] but I really like pink and indigo too

[Nick] most of the rainbow, honestly

[Charlie]thx!!!

Charlie could feel an idea forming. And if he hated it, well, he had two weeks and the art supply store was only a few blocks away. He could do this. He squeezed out paint and started.

Meanwhile in Leeds, Nick was sitting in a locker room, staring at his phone with a goofy grin on his face.

"Oi, what's gotten into you?" asked his team mate Sai.

"Nothing. Everything's fine. Normal."

Sai laughed. "Mate, you only say things are normal when they are most definitely not. Chatting with someone cute?"

"Um, maybe. Yeah?" Nick rubbed his neck nervously. He'd drunkenly come out to Sai years ago when they were both new on the team. He'd had crushes on guys before, but this thing with Charlie felt bigger. But he wasn't sure if it was reciprocated, or how to go about finding out. For the first time in years, Nick regretted not spending more time dating, so that he could learn these things that normal people in their late 20s already knew.

Sai slapped him on the shoulder. "Well, good luck, buddy. You deserve to find someone."

"Ugh, I don't know. I'm probably just being weird about it. I'm not even sure I'll see them again."

"Oh? Why not?"

Nick looked around and saw they were alone. "Well, he lives in London for a start. But also it's like a weird thing Darcy set up."

"Darcy? Meddle? Never!"

"No, not meddling. He's… painting my portrait?"

"Is that slang for something I don't understand?" asked Sai.

"No, like, literally. The Leeds Library apparently wants a painting of my face on their walls. It's super weird." Nick fidgeted with his hair.

Sai laughed. "That's what you get for being famous and nice. People like you and want to show their appreciation. Oh no, so tragic."

"But yeah, we did a sitting yesterday and then he went back to London to finish it. It's all part of a reality show, so I don't know that there will be any sort of formal presentation he might be at or anything."

"Oh shit!" said Sai. "Portrait Artist of the Year? I love that show!"

"Yeah?"

"Wait, so if this is the commission piece, they have another round in a couple weeks and they always allow the public in the gallery. Have they announced where the last heat is?"

"Huh?"

"Oh my friend, you clearly want to see him again. So why not go to the filming, plus then you get to see the painting?"

"I don't know, Sai. What if I read it totally wrong and he's not interested?"

"What if you didn't?" countered Sai. "Besides, I bet you're dying to see what the painting looks like. You're vain like that."

"Oi!"

Sai laughed and ruffled Nick's hair. "Talk to Darce, she'll make it work. Born meddler, that one. I gotta run, but see you at practice later, yeah?"

Nick waved as Sai walked off. He hadn't thought about there being a way to see Charlie again. It wasn't that weird to want to see the painting reveal, right? And Sai had a habit of being right. He opened his messages and texted Darcy.

[Nick] hey Darcy, can you let me know where they're filming the portrait reveal?

[Darcy] sure! Any particular reason? It's usually like pulling teeth to get you to make an appearance

[Nick] oh, just something Sai mentioned

His phone started ringing.

"Hello, Darcy."

"Nicholas Lucas Nelson, did something happen yesterday?"

"I mean, yes? You scheduled it, you should know." He knew he was being cheeky, but it was so rare he got to surprise Darcy these days.

"But did something happen-happen? Did you have a Patrick Swayze Ghost moment?"

"What? That movie is about pottery, not painting!"

"So who is your artist, anyway? They didn't put it on the call sheet they sent ahead since the final heat was only Saturday. Wait, is this the new person you followed on Insta?"

"You noticed that?"

"Managing your socials is literally part of my job. And if I know what Sai knows about you, I bet you think he's cuuuuute."

"Maybe? But he lives in London so it's not like anything could come from it. Even if I was publicly out."

"Ok, Nick, here's the plan. You are going to spend a few hours working on your manuscript, go to practice, and then you're coming to ours for dinner and we'll get you drunk enough to talk."

"You don't have to get me drunk, you menace!"

"But it's so fun!"

Nick rolled his eyes. "I will come for dinner. But you are right, I need to go write."

"And if you need me to lock your phone in a box again, let me know."

"It's fine, he's busy anyway."

"Wait, he has your number?"

Nick paused. It was very unusual for him to give out his number. "Umm, yes?"

"Nick! You have it bad for this one, don't you?"

"Maybe? I don't know."

"My man, you have fallen off a bloody cliff. Try not to get too distracted stalking him on Insta. See you at dinner. Byyyeeee!"

"Bye!"

Nick hung up his phone and hung his head in his hands, staring at the floor. How was he supposed to think about anything else right now? Rugby was one thing, it was a totally different part of his brain. But the only thing he wanted to write now was terrible poetry. He checked his messages one more time. Nothing new from Charlie. Maybe he was doing a better job of focusing than Nick right now. Or maybe he just wasn't that interested. Nick felt like he should probably give Charlie a little bit of space. For all he knew, Charlie wasn't even single. And even if he was, he deserved more than to be someone's secret. Let alone when the press was involved. Ugh. This is why Nick hadn't tried to date more. Nick closed his messages and shoved his phone into his pocket. With a sigh, he picked up his bag to head home.

Chapter Text

Charlie's alarm went off, reminding him to take a break from painting in order to eat. For the next two weeks, he was returning to a more structured style of working and meal planning after talking to his therapist when he was initially accepted on to the show. The live painting days had built in breaks, and had been easy enough to manage. He hadn't expected to make it to the finals, but he was grateful that they'd planned for this contingency.

Right now, his canvas was uniformly bright golden yellow and he had started blocking out the shapes in pencil before he planned to go back in for the underpainting. After Nick's comments on his favorite color, Charlie had decided he really wanted to explore subtle highlights on a mostly grayscale portrait to probe the dichotomy of Nick the athlete/author. He stood back and stared at it for a while, fretting that the yellow was too yellow. His lunch was eggs and toast, and his canvas made him think of a giant egg yolk. He chewed thoughtfully. Maybe he would break up the yellow a little more at the end, or at least after he blocked in the other colors. Between the yellow walls of the library and Nick's personality, it still felt like the right choice.

Of course, unlike the other two finalists, Charlie still had to go to his day job. Cleaning away his dishes and brushes, he checked his phone and saw no new messages from Nick. Shoving it in his pocket, he rushed out the door to catch the bus, grabbing an umbrella. He arrived at work, paint probably still in his hair, and clocked in.

His shift was uneventful, marked by a decided lack of texts from a certain rugby lad. Charlie rearranged the YA section, making sure that Nick's books were prominently displayed. His manager, Becky, came over. "Oh, great idea, Charlie! We've been getting really good traffic on those lately. I think another one is supposed to be out early next year."

"Oh, really?" asked Charlie. "Do you think he'll do a signing tour?"

"Unlikely - I don't think I've heard of him doing more than a few events, and mostly in Leeds," said Becky, shaking her head. "Shame, really. Have you seen his author photo?"

Charlie, who still had not looked at Nick's bio, shook his head and picked up a copy, flipping to the back. It was a small black and white photo of Nick wearing, of all things, a turtleneck and blazer and small round glasses. He snickered. The stylist had really leaned into those authorial stereotypes, but even that couldn't hide Nick's natural good looks.

"Nick Nelson began writing during the long hours on the bus as a professional rugby player traveling to away games. He is the author of Lights Behind Shadows, his best selling debut novel. His books have received many accolades, including The Guardian Top 20 YA Authors of 2021. He credits his mother, Sarah, with fostering his love of stories," read Charlie.

"Wow, that's… noncommittal," he said.

Becky laughed. "But hot, right?"

"No comment," said Charlie, blushing.

"Everyone knows that means you fancy him," laughed Becky. "How's the painting thing going? I saw you swapped shifts with Lucas in two weeks."

"I made the final!"

"Oh my God, congratulations! Wait, that means you have a commission now. Spill the beans, who is it?"

"Can't tell, had to sign an NDA." Charlie was relieved. Becky could be relentless in her interrogation. As one of Tori's friends, sometimes she felt an obligation at act as an extra big sister to Charlie, which could be deeply embarrassing.

"Aww, that's no fun. But I'm excited for you!"

"I certainly didn't expect to make it this far in the competition. But I guess, well, here I am?"

"And to think, your parents wanted you to go to uni for Maths!"

"I did get the top score in my class in maths," Charlie shrugged. "It wasn't totally unreasonable of them."

"Speaking of maths, I need to go count out drawers. Are you good out here?"

"Yep, got it covered, boss."

When Charlie clocked out for the day, he spent the whole bus ride home staring at his phone trying to will it to get another text from Nick. He supposed he could text first too, but what would he even say? I've been staring at your face all day and you're very pretty? Hey so I'm painting you but I'd also like to know you more as a person? So we had a nice time. Are you straight? Charlie shook his head. He had no idea what he could say to Nick so he was just going to have to wait for Nick to say something to him.

—--

Nick pushed the buzzer to let Tara and Darcy know he was standing outside their flat. He was carrying a nice bottle of red wine, so that if Darcy did try to get him drunk, it at least wouldn't be some sugary fruity monstrosity. He heard the buzz and click and pulled the door open, walking up the stairs to their door.

"Nick!" shouted Darcy as she opened the door. "How's my favorite bi guy?"

"This is all your fault."

"So while I can agree whatever is my wife's fault, what did she do this time?" Tara took the bottle of wine and hugged Nick. "Hello, by the way."

"Hey Tara," said Nick, returning the hug. "Your wife badgered me into agreeing to get my portrait painted for reality television."

"Yes?" said Tara questioningly.

"And the artist was incredibly hot and funny and obviously talented and definitely gay."

"Still not detecting a problem," said Tara.

"But there was a camera and I'm still closeted and now he's back in London and I need to figure out how I can ever see him again."

Tara blinked at Nick, who was obviously distraught. "Ok, so not just a crush, full blown sexuality crisis. Good thing I made lasagna."

Nick laughed unevenly. He and Tara had a long history of emotional conversations over carbohydrates, especially pasta. Lasagna was usually associated with celebrations or full blown crises. "Definitely a lasagna crisis," he said, helping set the table.

Darcy opened the bottle of wine. "Well, Plan Got Caught Snogging A Boy is always ready to roll, but since it sounds like you haven't gotten that far yet, there's always Plan Proud Rug Bi Boy."

"Do you seriously call them that?" asked Tara.

"It's on the binders and everything," sighed Nick. "I don't know. Am I making something out of nothing? But also, how can I find out if it's something?"

Darcy tilted her head to the side. "Have you tried asking him?"

"What am I supposed to do, send a text that's just "hey, by the way I'm bi and I think you're incredibly sexy and I had a great time talking to you and want to do it again sometime?"

"Yes, that would work. Did you get his number?" said Tara.

"Yes," said Nick, blushing furiously.

"Smooth, Nicholas!" said Darcy. "But seriously, if you think you're ready to come out, just let me know and we'll make it happen. It'll be an intense few weeks, though, I can't lie. The Plan involves a few interviews with TV shows and magazines who I know will actually listen to you without being totally invasive. But… the reality is you are famous, and a lot of people have parasocial relationships with you and will be upset."

"When did you learn the word parasocial?" asked Tara.

"I spend a lot of time on the internet," waved Darcy dismissively.

"So while I'm up against a manuscript deadline is probably not the best time," said Nick sadly.

"You can ask for an extension?" suggested Tara.

"I don't know that there's ever a good time," sighed Darcy, "but I will do my best to make sure you get to do it on your time. Unless you make out with him on camera, in which case, there's only so much I can do."

"I'll think about it," said Nick. "To change the subject entirely, how is the house hunt going?"

Gratefully, Tara and Darcy took the hint and the conversation redirected to the Leeds housing market and hypothetical future pets. Soon, Nick was calling an Uber back to his house, his phone burning a silent hole in his pocket.

Leaving his shoes at the door and tossing his keys in a bowl, Nick flopped on his couch and sighed. Tara and Darcy had a point. He needed to talk to someone. As always, when Nick needed big life advice (well, almost always), he called his mother.

"Hey Nicky, is everything ok? It's awfully late for you to call."

"Sorry, I didn't check the time. I can call back tomorrow."

"It's ok, I was just letting the dogs out for bedtime. What's up, love?"

"What do you think about me coming out? Publicly, I mean?"

"Well, obviously it won't change how your family feels about you, but it is a big step. You'll have to deal with a lot of nasty comments. There's a lot of fans that are going to take it personally even though it has nothing to do with them, and even if it shouldn't affect you, it's hard to ignore. And it may change how some of your teammates behave. But I suspect you've already thought about all of that, and talked to Darcy. Is there something making you think about it now?" She paused. "Or maybe someone?"

"Mostly hypothetical someone."

"Oh? Does my Nicky have a crush?" his mother teased.

"I don't know. Maybe? Yeah. But I've literally only met him once and he lives in London."

"He must be special."

"He really is. But I guess I realized that I don't want to have to hide a boyfriend. I'm tired of lying, Mum."

"I wish this was easier for you. That you could just live your life." Sarah sighed. "But it's your decision, and whatever you decide, I will support you."

"Thanks, Mum."

"So tell me more about this boy."

Nick rotated so he was laying comfortably with his feet up. "His name is Charlie and he's an artist…"

—-

The next day was a writing day for Nick. After his morning run, he sat at his desk and opened his computer. He made good progress for an hour or so, but then he and his characters were well and truly stuck. After trying all of his usual methods to shake ideas out of his head, including playing Mario Kart, staring blankly at the wall, eating something, baking cookies, and checking Insta had all failed, he impulsively texted Charlie.

[Nick] Okay weird question for you - are air vents overdone or not?

[Charlie] Yes they're totally overdone but your readers probably don't know any better

[Nick] I've backed my characters into a locked room and it's the only escape I can see

[Charlie] Earth room or Ionian?

[Nick] wait, you've read my books?

[Charlie] literally work in a bookstore

[Nick] that doesn't mean you've read mine

[Charlie] the kids I used to babysit were obsessed, too

[Charlie] tbh, the rugby thing came as a surprise

[Nick] I’d rather be author Nick most days. Not today, obviously.

[Charlie] right, stuck characters

[Charlie] is there a control panel in this room? Can they activate the shift system remotely and move themselves into an unlocked compartment?

[Nick] that might work!

[Nick] how’s the painting going?

[Charlie] well, I get to stare at your face for hours without it being weird

[Charlie] but it’s going well

[Nick] do I get any teasers?

[Charlie] nope! You’ll have to wait to see it

[Nick] did you use the photo you sent me?

[Charlie] spoilers!

[Nick] fiiine

[Nick] I should probably go back to writing

[Nick] this manuscript is due in a few weeks

[Charlie] I also have some sort of deadline coming up…

[Nick] I’m rooting for you ❤️

[Charlie] ❤️

Nick smiled at his phone, looking at the lone red heart. Maybe now wasn’t the time to come out, but soon. And the sooner he turned in this manuscript, the sooner he could tell Darcy that Plan Proud Rug Bi Boy was a go. He sat down at his computer and started writing.

The next two weeks were both the shortest and longest two weeks of his life. He and Charlie texted often, sending each other stupid memes and asking each other questions about their lives. He learned that Charlie’s sister was in a relationship with an Olympic speed skater and his brother was studying Psychology. In turn, Charlie learned about Nick’s homophobic asshole brother David, and his marvelous mother, Sarah. Despite heavy flirting, neither of them had explicitly confirmed a relationship status, and Nick still hadn’t confirmed his sexuality. He typed and deleted literally dozens of messages coming out to Charlie, but Charlie was quickly becoming a close friend, and Nick didn’t want to ruin that if Charlie wasn't into him. Truth be told, he didn’t have many close friends these days, skipping the pub scene with his single teammates, and being too single to commiserate about wives and children with his married teammates. Whatever hours Nick wasn’t training or talking to Charlie were spent writing, and for the first time, he was prepared to hand in a manuscript early.

He had also neglected to mention to Charlie that he was coming to the filming of the final. Darcy had arranged his schedule and confirmed with the producers that he was allowed to attend the reveal. He was going to accompany Isaac to the National Portrait Gallery in London on Saturday. He was going to see Charlie again.

Chapter Text

Charlie wiped his brushes clean and stared at the portrait of Nick in front of him. It was Friday, his last opportunity to make any changes or finishing touches before the big reveal. Thankfully, the final heat was in London proper, so he didn’t have to travel particularly far. But he was done, and he was proud of the painting. It wasn't Nick the author, posed meekly in a turtleneck, but it also wasn't rugby Nick flexing his muscles and looking serious. It was just Nick, joyful in the moment, eyes slightly squinty, hair a little wild, strong but soft and happy. If he was being honest, it was probably the best painting Charlie had ever done besides his initial entry. He had learned a lot about his own style in the first heat and a lot more about color theory in the conversations during the breaks than he'd ever learned in class.

After two weeks of examining every line and freckle of Nick's face, the gentle curve as his hair flipped over his forehead, the tension in his forearm as those large hands cupped his neck, Charlie's little crush was a raging inferno. It didn't help that the conversation had been so wonderful as well. Nick was rapidly becoming one of his closest friends. They talked freely about all sorts of things, but always understood when the other had to step away to work. But as soon as it was time for another break, Charlie's phone was in his hand. Talking to Nick had helped him a lot over the last two weeks, and it really seemed like they would stay friends. Provided he didn't ruin it with his silly crush.

He carefully wrapped up the canvas for transport, grateful the show was sending a car instead of having to take it on public transit. He had several more canvases primed and ready for the heat the next day, trying out a few different layouts to give himself flexibility depending on the room and the background. He methodically cleaned the threads on all of his tubes of paint as he neatly tucked them into his box. He has fresh tubes of white, black and he’d replaced his yellow, having used up the last of it on the painting of Nick. He did his final checks to make sure everything was where he needed it and all of his brushes were clean before putting on pajamas and brushing his teeth. As he settled down with a comfort re-read, he felt his phone buzz.

[Nick] Good luck tomorrow!

[Nick] You’re going to do great!

[Charlie] thanks!

[Charlie] last heat!

[Charlie] hopefully the sitter is someone I've at least heard of…

[Nick] is anyone coming out to see you?

[Charlie] well, Elle will be there obviously, and Tao

[Charlie] but my parents are in Spain taking care of my abuela

[Charlie] and Tori and Michael are at one of his competitions

[Charlie] Olly said he’d try to make it

[Nick] Fingers crossed he’s not too hungover then

[Charlie] lol

[Charlie] ah, uni days… I only miss parts of them

[Charlie] do you have any big plans this weekend?

[Nick] Darcy has me scheduled for a meeting

Charlie tried not to be disappointed. He knew Nick was very busy right now, trying to finish his manuscript before rugby season started. And Leeds was not exactly that close. It was hardly reasonable to expect him to drop everything and come see the painting reveal. But a part of him had really hoped he would get to see Nick again.

[Charlie] I’ll have to come up to Leeds to see it installed

[Nick] That would be fantastic. I’d be happy to show you around the city

[Nick] instead of just the downstairs of my house

Charlie's thumbs hovered as he debated making a joke about seeing the upstairs. Things had been flirty between them, certainly, but he still hesitated. Nick hadn't confirmed anything about his sexuality, which as much as Charlie wanted to know, he knew Nick didn't owe him anything. He opted for a tamer response instead.

[Charlie] Absolutely! I'd love that!

[Nick] I’ve got a super early morning tomorrow

[Nick] Don’t stay up too late x

[Charlie] i make no promises

[Charlie] maybe i’ll pull an all nighter and start over

[Charlie] though I'll probably just read for a bit and go to sleep

[Nick] good night x

[Charlie] good night x

Charlie smiled, and plugged his phone in on his bedside table. He lay on his bed, looking up at the ceiling. Rupert jumped up and curled up on his chest, purring. “What do you think, little one? Is Nick going to like his painting?” Rupert ignored Charlie, rolling over and stretching out, tail going up Charlie’s nose. “That’s very helpful, cat.” Charlie rolled over to turn off his lamp, dislodging the indignant cat in the process and tried to fall asleep.

—--

Nick and Isaac sat next to each other in the car sent by the production company to pick them up at an ungodly early hour to compensate for the sheer distance to London. The producers had been thrilled that he was going to come to the reveal - many of the celebrities simply didn't have the time, but between the reduced training schedule for the off season and his marathon of writing, Nick didn't have any other obligations. And even if he had, Darcy would have moved anything short of a game for him.

"Does Charlie know you're coming?" asked Issac, watching Nick's nervously bouncing knee.

"No, I didn't tell him. I didn't want to distract him from painting."

"Are you planning to stay out of sight until the heat is over, then?" asked Isaac.

"Yeah, that's the plan."

"Good luck," laughed Isaac. "Do you think the painting is going to be author Nick or rugby Nick?"

"Neither, I hope. I think Charlie may be able to see the real Nick, and maybe help me show that version of me to the world."

"Those are pretty big expectations for a painting." Issac's expression was unreadable to Nick.

"We just kind of clicked. Like, its been really easy to just open up to him about almost anything."

"Almost?" asked Isaac. He was always very good at picking up on the heart of an issue.

"Well." Nick fidgeted nervously with the ends of his hair. "Do you ever feel like, you’re only doing things because everyone else is? And you’re scared to change, or do something that might confuse or surprise people? Your real personality has been, like… buried inside you for a really long time? I guess, uh, that’s how I’ve been feeling recently. Charlie makes me feel like me, I guess."

"But?" said Isaac, hearing the word Nick hadn't yet said.

"But I don't know how to tell him. I'm not out. He deserves to be shown off, not kept a secret. I don't know if he's even interested anyway. I'm just so confused."

Isaac reached over and patted Nick's knee. "Well, I think after this, he'll know that you're interested in him."

"Do you think so?"

Issac looked over seriously. "Well, you could try just telling him instead of doing your best impression of a coniferous tree."

Nick burst out laughing. "I guess I have been pining a bit." Isaac raised a sardonic eyebrow.

"We still have two more hours until we get to London, so I'm going to finish this book," said Issac, picking up a hardcover from the seat.

"Well, I just finished my book, so I'm going to nap," quipped Nick.

"Reading or writing?"

"Writing - sent in the manuscript last night."

"Well, congratulations, and a nap is certainly well deserved." He picked up his book, signaling the end of the conversation.

Nick adjusted in his seat to lean his head against the window, shut his eyes, and thought of Charlie.

Chapter Text

The car dropped Charlie off outside the gallery. A crew member was waiting for him to help carry his things inside, and whisk the commission piece away for display. Charlie felt an odd pang as he watched the wrapped canvas walk away, like a little piece of his heart had just been stolen. He shook his head rapidly to clear his head. Time to focus, Charlie, he told himself. He was stationed on the left, with Elle in the center station and Keith on the right. He nodded politely at Keith, and grinned at Elle as they all staged their paints and canvases to prepare for their sitters.

"How did your commission go?" asked Elle.

"I'm really happy with it," said Charlie. "But it feels really strange to not be staring at his face anymore."

"Oh? Who'd you have as a sitter?"

"Nick Nelson."

"Rugby King Nick Nelson??" Elle practically squealed. "You got stuck with a sports lad?"

"He's also an author, actually," said Charlie, feeling the need to defend Nick.

"Well, I hope he was nice to you."

"Yeah, he's… he was pretty great." Charlie could feel his face flushing. Elle lifted an inquisitive eyebrow. "So who was your sitter?" he asked, interrupting her questions before they could start.

"Rosie Jones! She's so nice and funny in person. Though she kept hitting on me even after I told her I'm straight. She's such a character!" gushed Elle.

"That sounds like fun!"

One of the producers came by. "Alright everyone, we're going to start rolling shortly. I know you all know the drill by now, but Stephen and Joan will come out and make some introductory remarks and then you'll get to meet today's sitter. They've graciously agreed to sit longer, so we're giving you an extra two hours today. Union rules, so we'll still have breaks every two hours. Any questions?"

Keith raised a hand politely. "Do I have time to run to the loo?"

"Yes, actually, now would be a great time for everyone to take a quick bio break."

Charlie straightened his brushes one more time before quickly going to the restroom. As he washed his hands, he saw Isaac come in. "Oh hi! Are you here for the reveal?" asked Charlie.

Isaac grinned broadly. "Yes, I'm here as the library's representative. I'm excited to see what you've done."

"Well, I really hope you like it. I should probably get back to set, though."

"Probably," said Isaac with a chuckle. "Good luck!"

Charlie returned to his easel, looking at the background of the room they were in. It was a visually busy space, with several large paintings hanging behind where the chair was positioned. Interestingly, they were all women, as part of a special exhibit. This was probably a clue to their sitter, but that still left roughly half the human population as candidates.

Stephen and Joan positioned themselves at the front of the room. The producers made a few final lighting adjustments, checking in with everyone one last time. With a final nod, they began the countdown.

"Good morning, and welcome to the finals of Portrait Artist of the Year!" said Stephen. "After weeks of painting and many amazing artists and sitters we've reached our final three artists."

"They've each spent the last two weeks working on an individual commission, and now today's session is the last step between these amazing artists and a 10,000£ commission to paint legendary rock and roll guitarist and astrophysicist, Brian May, for the National Portrait Gallery," said Joan.

"And that's where we are today. Is everyone ready to meet your final sitter?" asked Stephen rhetorically.

"Though she was born in the US, this actor has lived in the UK since 2002, and received her OBE for her ongoing activism and services to drama. She rose to fame as Scully in the X Files, and more recently for her roles in Sex Education and The Crown. Please welcome… Gillian Anderson!"

Charlie was incredibly relieved. It was someone he had heard of! And been in shows that he had actually watched! She waved politely as she walked up to the dias, and sat in the chair wearing a deep green jumpsuit.

"Now remember, you're going to be sitting for quite a while, so it's important to pick a pose you can hold," advised Kathleen. "Artists, do you have any requests?"

"If you can pick a consistent spot in the back of the room to look at, that will help you reset when you do need to take a break to move," said Keith, who had worked the most with live sitters of the finalists.

"And preferably somewhere between two of us, instead of directly behind me," said Elle. Charlie nodded with that request.

"Nothing to add, really. Just make sure you're comfortable to start," he said. Gillian nodded politely, setting her head at a slight tilt, looking up at the ceiling moulding in the back corner of the room.

"That's perfect!" declared Keith.

"Alright artists," said Stephen. "Your time starts now!"

Charlie took out his tablet to take a few reference photos, thinking about colors. In working on Nick's painting, he had played around with some really wild colored underpainting choices. What if today, he flipped his style, and instead of a grayscale portrait on a bright background, he explored bright colors for the face? It was a risk, but also, it was the finals, and playing it safe was only going to get him so far.

He started putting down his base coat as a very medium gray. He wasn't sure how he was going to address the background, but he had decided to stick to an upper body only composition. Charlie picked a warm cream to block in the major shapes of the face, before layering in yellows and blues and blush pinks, hinting at realistic tones but pushing the saturation.

Tai came up behind Charlie, cameraman trailing along. "Well, this is a different direction for you today. What made you decide to change?"

"She just has such a bright and vibrant energy versus the sort of traditional backdrop of this gallery space. When I was working on my commission piece, I had some very wild colors in the underpainting and I nearly stopped there, but it didn't suit my sitter, but I think it will work here."

"That's very interesting. I look forward to seeing how this evolves over the day," Tai nodded before wandering on.

After the first hour, they opened the gallery for public observation. Unbeknownst to Charlie, Nick was a giant bundle of nerves, pacing outside. Isaac gave him a gentle shoulder pat. "Go see the rest of the museum, you have plenty of time before the reveal. I'm going to go take a peek and see who it is."

Nick ran his fingers through his already ruffled hair. Was this whole idea a terrible mistake? Did Charlie want to see him again, or was he just being polite? How on earth was he going to make it through the next five hours? Taking Isaac's advice, he started walking through the museum. The portraits were mostly displayed chronologically, so looking at his pamphlet, Nick decided to start at the beginning.

Wandering slowly through quiet spaces was simultaneously soothing and nerve wracking. He kept playing through scenarios of how Charlie might react, from polite indifference, to actual disgust to Nick proposing marriage on the spot. The last one seemed unlikely, but he couldn't write it off entirely. Charlie had him absolutely smitten after only a few hours together and two weeks of messages. Darcy’s advice before he left had just been “You’ll know when it happens.” But when what happens?

As he studied the older portraits in the beginning of the gallery, his mind was able to wander away from the subject of Charlie Spring for a while. So many older men with stern expressions in intricately embroidered outfits. Nick found himself more drawn to subjects besides the nobility, wondering what this person was like that had inspired the artist to immortalize them on canvas. Were they close? Was it just someone available to sit still for a few hours or days? The small placards next to the works often only had very limited details, an estimate of date and an artist, sometimes a title. He was also amused by the trend of artists with skulls in the Stuart period. Maybe he should have posed with a skull and paper and his favorite fountain pen. Nick looked at his watch. Still four hours to go.

Meanwhile, the painters and sitter were on their first break of the day, pausing for tea and biscuits and stepping back to take a new look at the work they had been staring at closely for the last two hours, and a peek at the other canvases. Charlie has finished his base color, sketch and initial underpainting. Elle had completed her sketch and a significant amount of the detail work in the eyes, carefully starting to build up layers to create the depth in the shadows of laughter lines and hair. Keith had already completed the eyes and mouth and the shape of the head, and seemed to be well ahead of schedule. They all made polite conversation, but were clearly mostly inside their own heads. Charlie spotted Issac in the crowd and waved, which was returned with a kind smile and wave. He hadn’t expected Issac to arrive this early, only expecting him for the actual reveal. He looked around. Olly hadn’t made it yet. Even though it was expected, Charlie was still disappointed. Out in the hall, he thought he saw a flash of almost ginger hair walk past, but when he looked again, it was gone. Clearly, he had spent too much time staring at photos of Nick if he had started imagining him appearing in places. After all, he had a meeting today.

Kate came over as Charlie was staring at the doorway. "Looking for someone?"

"Just thought I saw someone I recognized," sighed Charlie.

"Do you have anyone coming to support you?"

Charlie checked his phone, and saw a text from Olly.

[Olly] woke up suuuuuuper late, omw

"My little brother is coming later. Apparently he just woke up." Kate chuckled.

"Well, he's missing the fun part of it all. Watching you work is absolutely the best part of my job," she said with a smile. "I can't wait for the reveal."

Chapter Text

"Artists! For the last time this season, please put down your brushes, and stand away from your easels," said Stephen.

Charlie exhaled, and turned to smile at Elle. Tao and Olly stood behind her, clapping with the rest of the crowd. As he stretched his stiff muscles, Charlie looked at the painting he had just completed, not noticing a certain tall man in the back of the room. Looking over at Elle's canvas, her work was absolutely breathtaking. But now it was all up to the judges. The painting was done, there were only reveals and reactions remaining.

Gillian stood, stretching her neck gently side to side. “I knew it would be intense, staying still for so long, but it’s hard to prepare for this. It’s really like a marathon!”

“Well, are you ready to see what our artists have achieved in that time?” asked Stephen.

“I’ve been dying to peek all day.”

“Well, let’s not make you wait any longer,” proclaimed Joan. “Artists, please turn your easels.” There was a hush in the room as the artists turned the finished works to face their sitter.

“Oh my goodness.” Her hands went to her mouth as she took in the portraits. “These are absolutely amazing. I love them all.”

“Well, you’re going to have to pick just one of them to take home,” remarked Stephen. “Would you like to take a closer look?”

“Absolutely.” They started with Keith’s easel. “It's astonishing how much detail you were able to capture in that amount of time. I love the precision of your brushstrokes, especially around my eyes. The tones you’ve used really feel like we’ve taken you straight out of Tudor England with your painter’s box intact.” Keith politely thanked her, shaking her hand before she moved over to Elle’s easel.

“Oh darling, I ..” Gillian paused to collect herself. “I feel like you’ve really seen me. I’m not just beautiful, I feel strong and powerful here. I love the energy. Watercolor has always been one of my favorite mediums, and you are truly a master of it."

“Thank you so much!” said Elle.

Charlie rubbed his hands on his towel, swallowing hard as she came to his easel. “You’ve certainly found a vibrancy here that I love. The juxtaposition of color against the gray background really brings the focus in nicely. You've also been very kind about my wrinkles," she laughed.

"Alright," said Stephen. "Are you ready to make your selection?"

"Yes, I am. I'd really love to take home…" There was a pause for dramatic effect, a collective holding of breath as everyone waited. "Elle's painting." Gillian went over to hug Elle, who was covering her mouth with her hands in surprise.

"Thank you for capturing this version of me - it's absolutely wonderful," she said to Elle.

After a round of applause, Joan cleared her throat, bringing the room back to focus. “In addition to the paintings they have completed today, each artist has also completed a commission piece. We’ve invited the subjects and commissioners of those paintings to join us in revealing these paintings prior to judging. Artists, if you could please make your way to stand beside your other easel,” said Joan, gesturing towards the easels.

Charlie turned to the side of the room and stopped breathing. Nick was here? Nick was here! Owen the camera man came up to Charlie and gave him a gentle pat on the shoulder. “Breathe, lad. We’re not done yet. Just a few more shots to get through and then you two can go have a nice chat in the green room.” Charlie released his breath and shook out his hands nervously.

“Thanks,” he whispered. “I didn’t think he was going to be here.”

Owen smiled and whispered back “I think it would take an army to keep him away.”

Tai, Kate and Kathleen stood to one side as part of the audience as Stephen stepped up next to the first painting. The London Art Museum had commissioned Keith to paint Sadiq Khan, the mayor, and was thrilled with his twist of taking a very modern political figure and staging him in a very classical portrait.

Next, Rosie Jones and a very academic looking fellow from the University of Huddersfield were thrilled by Elle's gorgeous watercolor of Rosie posed in a surprisingly quiet and contemplative moment. Rosie was a little teary as she hugged Elle.

Nick and Issac stood next to the final easel, Charlie on the far side of his painting, fidgeting with his shirt cuffs.

"Lastly, we have Nick Nelson, and Leeds Library director Isaac Henderson," announced Joan. "As an author and athlete, Nick's charitable efforts with the library have enabled them to expand their space and collection, especially for younger readers."

"So what was Nick like as a sitter, Charlie?" asked Stephen.

"Absolutely wonderful. He was just so welcoming and I think we could have talked for hours. I was familiar with his books, but there's so much more to Nick," said Charlie, carefully watching Nick's reaction, gratified by the grin spreading across his face as Charlie talked.

"Are you ready to show us your painting?" asked Stephen.

Charlie took a deep breath, nodded, and turned the easel. Nick was painted in his signature grayscale style on a bright yellow background, but under the gray, there were tones of pink and blue and violet, as well as intentionally colored highlights. Charlie's favorite detail was the rainbow he'd hidden in the swoop of Nick's hair. He was wearing the glasses he'd had to put on to see the bug more clearly, looking up at the sky and smiling.

Suddenly, Charlie was enveloped in a massive bear hug from a slightly teary Nick Nelson. Relaxing slightly, he hugged back. Issac laughed. "This is exactly what I was hoping for in our space. It's wonderfully modern and the subtle details really capture Nick."

Hearing his name again, Nick finally broke off the hug. Laughing, Stephen asked "So I take it you like the painting, Nick?"

"It's… more than perfect. I feel totally seen. Thank you, Charlie. I love it."

Charlie was grinning broadly as he and Nick stared at one another.

"Let's give all of our artists another round of applause," said Joan.

As everyone clapped, producers came over to usher the artists to quieter corners to do the pre judging interviews.

"Seeing everyone's work has really been so amazing," said Charlie, glancing over at Nick. Owen immediately stopped him.

"Ok, Nick, I need you to come stand behind me so we have any chance of getting this bit filmed with Charlie looking at the camera. Then you two will have a chance to go have the chat you're clearly dying to have," said Owen. Blushing, Nick complied, beaming at Charlie. "Ok, start over. How do you feel about the final?"

"This whole show has been an incredible ride. Elle and I entered together from her apartment, and now we're both here together in the finals. I would say that winning would change my life… but I think the show has already changed my life, and I can't wait to see what happens next."

"What do you think of your chances of winning ?"

"I don't know, both Keith and Elle have done fantastic work, and I'm less happy with today's painting than I had hoped. But it's all up to the judges now."

"Thanks, Charlie. You nailed it. If you and Nick want someplace quiet to talk, I'm pretty sure that the gallery over is where all the camera equipment's being stored and there shouldn't be anyone in there." Owen smiled knowingly at Charlie. The producer looked at Owen quizzically. "You'll understand once you have to review their footage," he said, rolling his eyes and smiling.

In the meantime, Nick and Charlie made their escape to look for the gallery that Owen had mentioned. Closing the door behind them, Nick looked at Charlie.

"Hi."

"Hi," breathed Charlie. "I thought you weren't coming. Didn't you have a meeting?"

"I, um." Nick rubbed the back of his neck. "I wanted to surprise you."

Charlie smiled. "It was a good surprise."

There was a moment of silence.

"So -"

"I just-"

They both laughed. "You first," said Nick.

"So you liked the painting?"

"I loved it. It's amazing. You're amazing."

"I'm not, really." Charlie paused. "What were you going to say?"

"Um. Ok. I just needed to tell you that I really like you, Charlie. And I don't know if you're single or whatever, but I really needed you to know. And I've been thinking a lot and I think it's time that I publicly come out as bi. I've talked to Darcy and she has a whole plan but I realized I don't want to start a new relationship having to hide everything and I don't know if you're even interested but I've been having this whole crisis. I even finished my book a month early because I've had all this extra energy and you've been so helpful and kind and amazing."

"Nick!"

"But yeah, I just don't want to be in the closet anymore and I don't mean to pressure you but.."

"Nick!" interrupted Charlie.

"What?" asked Nick, running his hand through his hair and looking distressed, making Charlie's heart flutter.

"I really like you too."

"You do?"

"Obviously!"

"Why are we like this?" asked Nick, chuckling.

"I don't know, but I like the idea of being a 'we' together," said Charlie.

"Can I… can I kiss you?" asked Nick nervously. Charlie stepped closer and tilted his head.

"Yeah."

Their lips met gently at first, before pulling back and looking into each other's eyes. This was real and happening and they were both absolutely stunned. They crashed together again, Charlie's hand on Nick's neck pulling him down into a fierce kiss, until they finally had to break apart before they fainted from oxygen deprivation.

There was a polite knock at the door, and they heard Owen's rumbly voice. "They just announced two minutes. Check your hair and come back out for the big announcement."

Charlie giggled and called, "Thanks! Just a second!" He squeezed Nick's hand. "Let's continue… this… later, yeah?"

Nick smiled, his eyes crinkling in a way that made Charlie's stomach so flips. "Yeah. You go ahead, I just need to text Darcy something."

"Ok, see you in there."

[Nick] Plan Proud Rug Bi Boy is go

[Nick] I owe Owen the cameraman, or else it was going to be Plan Got Caught Snogging A Boy

[Darcy] eeeeeeee!!

[Darcy] ok, go get your man

[Darcy] I'll get you details and schedules shortly

[Darcy] and get Owen a gift basket

Charlie fussed with his hair, standing on the spot next to his two paintings as directed. The three judges stood behind Stephen and Joan, and the room was mostly empty except the artists, immediate family, and Nick.

"Artists. It has been a wonderful season. The caliber of work you have produced has been truly phenomenal, and the judges had a difficult decision to make," said Joan.

"I'm thrilled to announce," said Stephen, " that The Sky Arts Portrait Artist of the Year is…"

"Elle Argent!"

Everyone clapped as Elle looked totally stunned. Grinning, Charlie embraced his friend. "You did it! You won!"

"Oh my God!"

The judges came over to congratulate Elle, with Tao grinning at his girlfriend over their shoulders. In the meantime, Charlie and Keith were pulled off to talk about their reactions.

"I mean, Elle is one of my best friends, so I'm absolutely thrilled she won. She deserves it, and I'm so happy for her."

Owen winked. "I'll get my camera out of your face now. It's been a pleasure and I expect an invitation to the wedding."

Charlie flushed bright red. Was he really that obvious? Before the first date was definitely too soon to start talking about weddings, right? They hadn't even planned a real date yet. Before Charlie could spiral any more, he was enveloped in Nick's arms again.

"I think you should have won," he murmured.

"I don't," laughed Charlie. "Elle is definitely a better artist than I am, and she absolutely deserves to win."

"Agree to disagree," said Nick, releasing Charlie. "How are you feeling?"

"Pretty fantastic, but utterly knackered. I think I could sleep for three days."

"So.. it sounds like I'm going to be staying in London for the next few days. I don't know what my schedule looks like yet, but once you're caught up on sleep, do you want to meet up?"

"Absolutely."

"Text me that you got home safe, yeah?"

Charlie smiled. "Same to you."

Nick waved as he walked out. Olly appeared behind Charlie's shoulder.

"What was that about?"

"Jesus, Olly! Have you been taking lessons from Tori?"

"You liiiiike him, don't you?"

"Shut up! Let's go see what Elle and Tao are planning to celebrate." Charlie dragged his little brother over to congratulate his friend again.

Chapter Text

Nick rubbed his palms against his thighs nervously. He paced in the green room of the ITV Studios in London, waiting to go on This Morning for his first interview since coming out on Instagram. Darcy hadn't been lying about having an incredibly detailed plan ready to execute as soon as he made his decision and gave the all clear. As soon as the post went up, she had him uninstall the app and texted him the most important screenshots, including a sweet but hilarious missive from Rosie. Thankfully, Charlie and his mum mostly texted him anyway.

There had been discussions with his coaches on the phone before the post to talk about how to approach it with the team. To his surprise, the coaches had immediately promised a one-strike rule for homophobic comments in the locker room. There was nothing anyone could do about the opposing teams or worse, the fans. But as they pointed out, Nick had already established his reputation as being a bit different through his choice of second career.

The post itself was fairly simple. He actually used a photo Charlie had taken of him, and added a very simple caption. "Proud rug-bi lad 🏳️🌈💓💜💙. To all those in the LGBTQ+ community, whether or not you are ready or able to come out, you are loved. Grateful to be my true self." He had been texting Charlie on and off all week. They were still waiting on their first date, but they had continued talking every day. Nick had learned about Charlie's teenage outing and the bullying, and he had been incredibly supportive in letting Nick vent about the stupid comments. His brother David had left some nasty voice messages, but Nick had come out to his family years ago. The fact that David seemed to have believed that a lack of boyfriend meant that it was just a phase was infuriating, but not surprising.

A kind woman with large headphones and a clipboard came and knocked on his door. "Mr. Nelson, are you ready?"

"Please, call me Nick. I'm as ready as I can be." He followed her out to the set, taking a deep breath and setting his face into a smile.

Nick shook hands with Holly and Phillip as he was seated on the couch in front of an unreasonable number of cameras.

"So with us next we have Nick Nelson, professional rugby player and young adult author who has recently come out publicly as bisexual," said Holly.

"His post on Instagram has over 100,000 comments, and he has been praised for his bravery in being forthcoming with his LGBTQ identity as an active professional athlete," picked up Phillip.

"Nick, welcome to the show," said Phillip. "Thank you so much for agreeing to speak with us."

"Yeah, absolutely. Thank you for having me," said Nick.

"So Nick, what made you decide to come out now?" asked Holly.

"Well, a lot of things, some more personal than others. But recently I had a conversation with someone about how much my books had meant to kids, with characters in all types of different relationships. I try to not just have the heteronormative boy-meets-girl romance, but real, deep friendships and romances outside the normal expectations. And it made me think about how much representation can really mean, not just to kids, but people of all ages. I'm at a point where I'm confident in who I am in a way I wasn't when I first started playing professionally, and it just seemed like time."

"While you aren't the first professional rugby player to come out, you are one of the only ones to do so while you’re still an active player. Do you have concerns?" asked Phillip.

"Obviously, I would be lying if I said no. But I think Gareth Thomas really made an impact on the broader community, and I think my coaches have really created an open culture in the locker room, where it's just another fact about me, like having freckles or being an author." Nick gestured to show the abundance of freckles on his forearms.

"You were recently a sitter on Portrait Artist of the Year. Can you comment on what that experience was like?"

Thankfully, Nick had been warned this question was coming and had prepared.

"I was amazed to be asked. I really don't think of myself as being at the point in my career for those kinds of honors. But it was a really positive experience, and I'm very happy with the outcome."

"Some people are speculating that your coming out may be related to meeting someone new while on the show. Do you have any comments?"

Nick frowned. This question, while expected, had been on the list of topics that weren't supposed to come up.

"No, I don't. While I am coming out as an openly bisexual man, I'm still a fairly private person. One of the difficult things about fame is how it impacts your relationships and the people around you who are just trying to live their lives. It's hard to protect them when people keep trying to know more and more about you. I love and appreciate my fans, but I owe more to my family and my teammates, and that had to be a big part of my decision."

Holly nodded. "So what's next for you?"

"Well, the new season starts in a few weeks, and my next book, 'Clearest Blue' is scheduled for release next spring. Like my previous books, we explore a lot of complex relationships, especially as my characters are getting older and feeling different pressures from the world around them."

"Thank you so much for sitting down with us today. My kids and I are very much looking forward to your next book," said Holly.

"Absolutely. Thank you again for having me."

When the cameras cut, Holly stood up to give him a big hug. "I know it's going to be tough, but I'm so proud of you. Off the record… Charlie?"

"Off the record… still not telling," laughed Nick.

"Well, he's absolutely adorable and I think you two would be great together," said Phillip.

Nick went back to his green room where Darcy was waiting and watching on the monitors.

"How did I do, Darce?"

"Pretty well, though maybe try to dial back the heart eyes when you're thinking about Charlie?"

"What heart eyes?" asked Nick. Darcy just laughed and shook her head.

"So that was the biggie. You have one more meeting today with Attitude magazine, and then we can head back to Leeds."

"Oh, ok." Nick deflated slightly. Leeds. It was just so far away from London, so far away from Charlie. And with the chaos of the finale and Nick's coming out, they still hadn't managed to have that date. Then again, right now, he was dealing with paps every time he stepped outside, which was hardly conducive to a romantic moment. He wasn't going to miss having to bare his soul to strangers, either.

Darcy looked at him with a serious expression. "Thinking about a certain dark-haired, blue eyed someone?"

Nick sighed. "Yeah. We still haven't gotten to spend any real time together."

She patted his arm. "You go do this interview, give me his number, and I'll see what I can do."

"Darcy, you're my agent, not my PA. I can handle my own love life."

"Just let me help, Nelson, or you know I will find other ways to meddle."

Nick sighed and handed over his phone.

"Heart in the contact, Nelson? You do have it bad for this one."

"I know," he said, head in hands. "Can I at least warn him before you meddle, you menace?!"

Darcy laughed. "You can try!" She was already typing. Nick grabbed his phone and started typing furiously.

[Nick] I don't know what Darcy is trying to do but I find it's best to just roll with her first idea because every idea after that gets progressively more chaotic

[Charlie] noted

[Nick] and please tell me whatever she comes up with because she's being sneaky

[Charlie] aww, but that's no fun!

[Charlie] how did it go?

[Nick] not too bad, though apparently I make "heart eyes" every time you come up…

[Charlie] I came up?

[Nick] there's speculation we're together

[Nick] are you… ok with that?

[Charlie] I mean, I'd like to go on a few dates first, but yeah

[Charlie] I kind of knew it was part of the Nick Nelson package

[Charlie] not the package I'm most interested in…

[Nick] I'm still around people!

[Nick] journalist people at that!

[Charlie] fiiiine

[Charlie] you go do your last interview, I'll go conspire with your agent

[Nick] oh no, what am I getting myself into?

[Charlie] you should have thought of that before you let the lesbian meddle, sir

[Charlie] lol

Nick shook his head, seeing Darcy's grin as she stared at her own phone. "You two are going to be the death of me," groaned Nick.

"Our car should be out front in 5 minutes. Go do this interview, and trust me," said Darcy.

"It would be easier if you told me anything," grumbled Nick.

"If you'd read the latest version of the plan with the new appendices, you'd already know what's going on," retorted Darcy.

"What do you mean, appendices?"

"4 minutes."

Nick shook his head, grabbed his bag, and headed out the door, trying not to worry about Darcy's furious typing as she followed behind him.

Chapter Text

Nick walked out of his last interview, smiling. The interviewer had been incredibly kind and understanding, and he was going to get a chance to review the final article in the morning. There had been no questions hinting at a specific romantic entanglement that might be affecting his timing on when to come out, just warmth and support. They had also done an impromptu photoshoot, and he'd been gifted the incredibly soft teal hoodie to take home in exchange for playing along with the last minute plan.

He got into the car, sliding into the seat next to Darcy.

"Ok, so here's the situation," said Darcy. "You and Charlie are going on a date right now. This car is going to take you where you are going, and he will be meeting us there."

"But what about the paparazzi? They have been basically everywhere today," grumbled Nick.

"This is why you should read the appendix, my guy!" Darcy ticked off items on her fingers as she spoke. "First, we've planted a false trail of Charlie being in Leeds to see his sister, Tori. She's agreed to post a photo of the two of them from the other week and tag him and say they're out to dinner together right now. Second, we've got decoys. Charlie's younger brother Olly and one of his friends, Alex, who handily is a ginger rugby lad, are out at the Golden Goose with reservations under your name. Given how excited Olly was for this, I suspect they may be doing a great job of flirting outrageously and distracting the paps. I had Oliver come to the hotel first and then get in a car with the ginger to help lay a thorough false trail. Third, we have disguises."

Nick groaned. "Sunglasses are not a disguise, Darce."

She handed over a black baseball cap and bomber jacket. "Here's what you're wearing. Charlie has agreed to pull his hair back which should be enough because he's a newer face."

"How did you get all of this done in just a few hours?"

"A well laid plan can achieve miracles, my friend. Never underestimate a meddling lesbian."

"Wait, if you had this all planned, why did you need my phone earlier?"

"I didn't, I just had a bet with Tara that I could get you to let me see how sappy your messages to Charlie were. I already had his number from the call sheet weeks ago." Darcy grinned.

"Oi! Privacy!" Nick gave Darcy a playful shove. "But seriously, I appreciate it. You didn't have to put this much work into getting me out on a date."

"Nicholas. Nicky. Nichard. Nelson. How many dates have you been on in the last three years?"

"Uhhh…" Nick paused. There had been the woman Sai had set him up with, and the hook up with a player from Manchester a few months after that, and… Crap. He hadn't realized his drought was that bad. "Like, one and a half?"

"Half?"

"Making out at his place but never going out anywhere public," shrugged Nick.

"This is the first time in ages you've expressed an interest in anyone, and he's clearly into you. It's my duty as your friend to give this a chance to happen," said Darcy. "And if it doesn't work out, that's ok, but my gay intuition says it very much will."

The car pulled up behind a bowling alley with no one in sight. Nick shrugged on the coat, smoothing back his hair as he pulled on the hat. "Go get your man," said Darcy.

Nick grinned as he slid out of the car, stomach full of butterflies as he approached the rear entrance. As he walked into the dark hallway, he paused for his eyes to adjust and looked around. Waiting at the end of the hall in a green sweater and black jeans was Charlie, his curls pulled back by a headband, face serious as he scanned the space. When he spotted Nick he broke into a broad grin, his dimples appearing.

"Hi," said Charlie.

"Hi." Nick bit his lower lip. "I'm sorry I didn't set things up myself."

"What did we say about the s-word?" teased Charlie.

"That was only supposed to apply to you!"

Charlie grabbed his hand. "Come on, let's go get ridiculous shoes and stare at each other's butts," he said as he dragged Nick to the counter.

"Oh, you just want to stare at my butt? I see how it is," joked Nick.

"That and your strong rugby arms," said Charlie with a lifted eyebrow.

"You didn't get enough staring at me over the last few weeks?"

"I will never get tired of staring at you," said Charlie. They locked eyes for a moment until the poor teenager working at the counter interrupted.

"Um. What sizes?"

They gave their sizes and got assigned a lane. Carrying their bowling shoes, they sat down on the bench, subconsciously sitting close together despite the ample available seating for two people on one lane.

"Do you want to do silly names for the board?" asked Charlie.

"Probably a good idea since we're supposed to be incognito and all," said Nick. Charlie started typing.

"Well, obviously, you're Rugby Lad, so what does that make me?"

"Gay Nerd?" asked Nick. "Or Painter-lie? Like the second part of your name?"

"I like Gay Nerd," giggled Charlie. Nick felt his knees going weak at the sound. He needed to hear Charlie's giggle every day for the rest of his life, he was sure of it.

Charlie was an average bowler, but Nick turned out to be quite good. After another strike, he cheered, and Charlie embraced him.

Breaking the hug, they stood and stared at each other, smiling. "How are you so good at this?" asked Charlie.

"I don't know, I just am."

"You're cheating."

"How am I cheating?"

"You have… strong rugby arms."

"I thought you liked my arms?"

"Shut up!" Charlie put his hand over Nick's mouth. Feeling playful, Nick licked it. "Eww!" said Charlie, taking back his now damp hand and wiping it on Nick's shirt. Nick reached forward and wrapped his arm around Charlie's waist, pulling him closer.

"Can I kiss you?" asked Nick, voice suddenly husky.

Charlie paused, checking around them. No one was watching. "Please," responded Charlie.

"Are you sure? I know this is more… public," said Nick.

"I really really want to," said Charlie, rising slightly into his tiptoes to come up and kiss Nick before he could fret again. Nick sighed softly as he relaxed into the kiss, gentle and soft. His eyes fluttered open as they separated, taking in the expression on Charlie's face.

"Alright," said Charlie, breaking into a mischievous grin. "Let's finish the last three frames and go get something to eat."

Nick grinned back. "Your turn, gay nerd!"

Charlie finished out the game with a spectacular gutter ball followed by a single pin, a 7-10 split and somehow only hitting two pins in the back row. Nick picked up two spares, and finished with a strike and spare. When Nick struck the final pins, Charlie cheered and tackled him with a hug, Nick catching him and lifting him up. Still holding Charlie up, Nick spun them around. “Put me down, you ridiculous man!” cried Charlie. Nick set Charlie down on the bench with exaggerated care and kissed his nose.

“Do you know where you want to go next?” asked Nick.

Charlie smiled shyly. “Actually, yes. There’s a little cafe next door that does sandwiches and milkshakes? If that sounds good?”

“That sounds perfect,” said Nick.

They returned their shoes and put on their jackets, walking hand in hand out the front door and over to a quaint cafe. They stood, Nick looking up at the menu. “Are you going to get anything?” asked Nick.

“I looked at the menu in advance. Darcy let me know where she was thinking. I’ve got a lot of… anxiety… about food and I do a lot better if I know what to expect.”

Nick squeezed his hand. “Thank you for telling me. Is there anything I should or shouldn’t be doing?”

“Just try not to comment on how much I’m eating, or how fast?”

“I can do that,” said Nick with a gentle smile.

They ordered their food, Charlie ordering a simple turkey sandwich and chocolate milkshake, while Nick was braver, with a spicy chicken sandwich and bubblegum milkshake. When their food arrived at their table, Charlie did a double take at the bright blue monstrosity sitting in front of Nick. “How old are you? That is an abomination, not a milkshake!”

“Oi! No disrespecting the bubblegum flavor. Do you want to try?” Nick slid his drink over to Charlie who took a sip and grimaced.

“How on earth can you drink that? Here, try mine.” He slid the chocolate over to Nick, who took a sip and looked like he had just discovered the meaning of life.

“Well that is just delicious,” said Nick. Charlie giggled and pulled back his milkshake protectively.

“You should have made better decisions,” teased Charlie. “Though you did decide to come on a date with me, which was an excellent choice.”

Nick studied Charlie’s face with a soft smile. “One of the best choices I’ve ever made, in fact.”

“So one more choice for you to make tonight,” said Charlie, taking a drink of his milkshake, eyes locked on Nick’s. “Are you going to kiss me again?”

Nick smiled, and leaned in with a head tilt.

Chapter Text

After their first date night, Nick made the long trip back to Leeds buzzing with the excitement of a new relationship, but nerves about how a long distance relationship could work. Meanwhile, Charlie returned to his routine of working at the bookstore, now with a lot of texting Nick. They had planned on a FaceTime call Wednesday, when Nick didn't have practice and Charlie didn't have work, but they were also talking about a second first date, where they planned it themselves without the intervention of meddling lesbians.

Nick had reinstalled Instagram after the initial hubub of his announcement died down, but there was still considerable speculation about his social media activity. As the show had aired Charlie's first heat, the third episode of his season, his artist page had also gotten more attention, and more than a few folks had pieced together that Nick was following a certain curly headed painter. Fortunately, while Twitter was buzzing, the tabloids largely had failed to pick it up without at least one picture to run, and the finals hadn't aired yet. Charlie largely navigated his new following by absolutely ignoring the fact that anything had changed and just posting his usual works in progress with the obvious exception of the commission piece.

[Charlie] so I was thinking of coming up to Leeds for Michael's birthday next weekend

[Charlie] I could maybe come up friday if you aren't busy?

[Nick] we have a bye week!

[Nick] can I plan something for us Friday night?

[Charlie] as long as you warn me about food, go for it!

[Nick] do you have any favorite restaurants in Leeds?

[Charlie] there’s an italian place Tori and I usually go to when Michael is gone because he doesn’t like it

[Nick] Giovanni’s?

[Charlie] yep!

[Nick] Ok, that’s perfect for what I want to do!

[Nick] Which train do you expect to be on?

[Charlie] I’ve got a morning shift, but I can be there by 4:00

[Nick] Ok, I’ll make reservations for 6, then <3

[Charlie] I can’t wait <3<3<3

That night, Nick was scrolling through Instagram, and absentmindedly liked Charlie’s latest painting, a portrait of Michael he was working on for his birthday. His face was in grays, but his chaotic mop of hair was a kaleidoscope of colors. Almost immediately, his notifications began to ping as he got tagged in comments. Nick groaned, leaning back.

[Nick] Sorry, I liked a post and now there are a billion comments coming up

[Charlie] it’s ok - I turned my notifications off ages ago

[Charlie] Geoff recommended it when I talked to him when I first started the show

[Nick] Maybe I need to do that too

[Charlie] highly recommend

[Nick] I’m so sorry you have to deal with this

[Nick] I don’t understand why people do this

[Charlie] it’s hardly your fault

[Charlie] people will be jerks no matter what

[Charlie] i’m used to it

[Nick] You shouldn’t have to be used to it, though

[Charlie] it’s worth it to be with you

[Charlie] the distance is more frustrating

[Charlie] i really just want to kiss you and cuddle you until you feel better

[Nick] just kisses?

[Charlie] take me on another date and we’ll see ;)

—--

Wednesday finally arrived, and Charlie nervously fixed his hair as he sat on the couch, waiting for Nick to call. He had decided against the bedroom, uncertain if that would be too intimate for wherever they were in this relationship, but wanting to be comfortable. He jumped a little as his phone vibrates.

"Hi."

"Hi."

"I missed you," said Nick.

"I missed you too. But you get to see me Friday!"

"I can't wait to kiss you," sighed Nick.

"Me either. But how was your day?"

"Nothing exciting. Went to practice, got an email from my editor, fretted about how early I could call you. How was your day?"

"Work was work. The bookstore is probably the least bad retail job I've ever had, but I still can't fathom why people just leave their empty Costa's cups wherever. Now that the show is over, I should really think about looking for something full time again."

"What kind of thing are you looking for?"

"Well, originally I wanted to get into publishing, but I've also been thinking about going back for a teaching certificate. Maybe English, maybe art. But I want to be able to be the safe space for kids that Mr. Ajayi was for me."

"Was he one of your teachers?"

Charlie settled back onto the couch as they settled into the conversation, stretching his arm over his head.

"Yeah, he was my art teacher. When I was outed, his room was one of the places I hid from bullies. He didn't pressure me to talk, just gave me paint and paper and waited for me to open up."

"I'm sorry you were outed. Not being able to choose must have been awful."

"At an all boys school? It was hell. But I had friends who helped me through. You saw Elle, and if you spotted someone in a beanie lurking around her, that's Tao. And of course Tori." Charlie gave a little smile. "But that was a long time ago, and I'm happy with who I am these days."

"I still wish I could have been there for you," said Nick sadly.

"How is coming out going for you?"

"Darcy's plan seems to be working, and I haven't heard a peep in the locker room. Some of the opposing fans have rude chants, but I learned to tune stuff like that out years ago. And there was some big scandal with a player from Manchester who got decked outside a gay bar. Harry Greene, I think? So I'm no longer the news du jour."

Charlie felt himself flush at the French phrase, a bolt of electricity going straight through him. "Do... do you speak French?"

"Je parle très bien français," said Nick. "My father is French, and I was raised bilingual. Why? Do you like it when I speak French?"

Charlie blushed and shifted slightly. "Maybe."

"Oui, faut que je me rappelle…" Nick smirked as Charlie's blush deepened.

"I can't wait to see you Friday," said Nick.

"Me either. But I don't want to rush things. Is that ok?"

"What kind of things are you thinking?"

"Mostly the physical things. Kissing and cuddling, yeah, but I'm a bit of a traditionalist. No hanky-panky until after the third date."

"Did you really just call it hanky-panky?" laughed Nick. "I'm on board with going slow, but hanky-panky? What are you, 70?"

"It's a good word! Besides, it's no use saying sex, because then you get into a whole debate about what is or isn't sex when you're queer."

"Next thing I know, you're going to call it canoodling!"

"What's wrong with canoodling?"

They both burst into laughter. Two hours later, Charlie yawned and stretched, his shirt lifting to reveal his toned abs. Nick, who had been in the middle of a sentence about his dog growing up, Nellie, suddenly paused.

"What? Oh, I'm sorry, I was yawning. I must be getting tired," said Charlie.

Voice suddenly raspy, Nick bit his lip and said "What did we say about the s-word? Especially when the only thing you did was be so gorgeous I forgot the rest of my sentence?"

"Or you're just tired too," deflected Charlie.

"Charlie. Let's get one thing abundantly clear. I think you are amazingly gorgeous and sexy and wonderful. And even if there is no hanky-panky, I'm excited to see you."

"For the record, kissing and cuddling don't count as hanky panky."

"Duly noted."

"But I should probably go to bed before I fall asleep on this couch."

Nick smiled softly. "Good night, Char."

Charlie yawned. "Good night Nick," he said as he hung up. Wait. Char?

[Charlie] did you just call me Char?

[Nick] sorry, it just slipped out

[Charlie] don't be sorry, it's cute

[Nick] well now I'm never calling you it again

[Charlie] aww, but I liked it!

[Nick] too bad, Charles

[Nick] Charmander

[Nick] Prince Charming

[Charlie] good night, you goof x

[Nick] good night x

—--

Charlie got off the train in Leeds on Friday afternoon and spotted a red-gold head waiting for him on the platform. He walked through the crowd, bobbing and weaving between the commuters. When Nick turned, Charlie waved shyly, watching the grin spread across Nick’s face like a sunrise. He stopped just in front of Nick, carrying his bag.

“Hi.”

“Hi.”

They both fidgeted, uncertain how to properly greet each other. Noticing the lack of attention they were getting from the people around them, Nick embraced Charlie in a big bear hug.

“Oof!” exclaimed Charlie.

“I missed you so much,” whispered Nick into his shoulder, before finally releasing him.

They walked closely together towards the parking lot. “I missed you too,” said Charlie, bumping gently into his shoulder. “So what are we doing tonight?”

“It’s a surprise,” said Nick with a sly grin. “But we’ve still got two hours before our reservation and my house is only a few minutes away.”

“What are you proposing, Mr. Nelson?” asked Charlie with a crooked eyebrow.

“Shamelessly making out on my couch for an hour?” Nick asked, a nervous hand on his neck.

“What a fine idea,” purred Charlie.

When they arrived at Giovanni's, they were only 5 minutes late and their hair was only slightly mussed. Thankfully, since it was a restaurant Nick regularly patronized, his reservation had gone seemingly unnoticed, and the staff was protective of his privacy.

"I'm glad we're doing this up here," said Nick. "I feel like I get more unwanted attention in London." There was a flash of light out of the corner of Charlie's eye.

"I'm afraid you may have spoken too soon," he said. On the street, someone had a camera pointed through the window. Their waiter approached, putting his body in the sight line.

"I'm very sorry, but if you would follow me to another table?"

Another pair of waiters had stopped by other tables, pretending to rearrange salt and pepper shakers as they shielded Nick and Charlie from view. They were shown into an office where the manager's desk had been hastily cleared off to make space for them.

"I'm so sorry about that," said their waiter. "I hope this is an acceptable compromise."

"This is fantastic. Really, you didn't have to go to this much trouble," said Nick.

The waiter titled his head. "It's absolutely no problem. We just want our guests to be comfortable." The waiter paused, looking at Charlie. "Besides, have you met his sister yet?"

Nick shook his head. "No, why?" he asked.

"That woman terrifies me." Charlie sputtered as he accidentally snorted water out of his nose. "I will be back with your food shortly."

As the waiter left, Charlie was wiping his eyes and laughing.

"Do I need to be scared of your sister?" asked Nick.

"No! She can be intimidating at first, but she's really nice."

Nick sighed and crumpled. "I'm so sorry about this. I didn't think… I understand if.." Nick stared at the table.

Charlie reached out and placed a hand on Nick's arm. "Nick, look at me please?" Nick looked up. "It's worth it. The distance, the difficult schedules, the crazy people with cameras, all of it. I promise."

"Are you sure?"

"I'm very sure," said Charlie softly.

Nick gave a weak smile. "Well, at least the next activity is just you, me and the instructor."

"Are we doing a pottery class?" asked Charlie, excited.

"Nope."

"Dance lessons?"

"Definitely not," said Nick, slowly brightening and making mental notes for future dates.

"Cooking class?"

"Nope. Why would we go make food right after eating?"

"Fair point."

"Guess all you want, you'll just have to wait and see," teased Nick.

As they paid their check and thanked the waitstaff again, Charlie and Nick went out the back kitchen door and got into Nick's little red Mini. "Dinner was wonderful, thank you," said Charlie.

"Hopefully you like the next part of our date too," said Nick. "It's not far." Nick reached over and put a hand on Charlie's thigh, the warmth seeping through Charlie's jeans. "I'm glad we're getting to go on a sort of normal date."

Charlie put his hand on top of Nick's, squeezing gently. "Me too."

They walked into a brick building, climbing a flight of stairs to a classroom. Three easels and a bottle of wine were set up. Charlie burst out laughing. "You're taking me to a sip and paint night?!"

Nick blushed. "I got us a private session, but yeah. I just… really like watching you paint."

"Oh, this is going to be hilarious!" declared Charlie. "But you know you can just come to my flat and watch me paint, right?"

"But I need my own Charlie Spring original for my house!" protested Nick, as he opened the door.

"Welcome, guys. My name is Levi, and I'm your instructor tonight."

"Hi Levi, I'm Charlie and this ridiculous man is Nick Nelson."

"Charlie? Charlie Spring? I just watched your first episode of Portrait Artist! Your work is so good! What on earth are you doing here?"

Charlie laughed. "Blame this one," he said, pointing over his shoulder at Nick, who waved shyly.

"I did one of these with my mum a while ago and it was loads of fun," said Nick defensively.

"Oh, is that where the painting in your entryway is from? Was that yours or hers?" asked Charlie.

"Hers. Mine was… not good. But Mum wanted to keep it anyway, because that's what mums do, I guess."

Levi grinned. "Well, we can take it at whatever pace tonight and see if you can get something good. You picked the sunflowers, right?" He gestured at a vase of sunflowers and an example painting.

Nick nodded. "They're my favorite flower." Charlie smiled softly at that. Levi nodded.

"Well, pop open the Prosecco and let's get started! We're working in acrylics tonight. Let's start with the big flat brush and the yellow paint and make a big circle anywhere on the canvas."

Charlie giggled as Nick concentrated very hard on making his circle dead center. "What?" asked Nick indignantly.

"You're cute when you focus," said Charlie.

"Well, you're so cute it's distracting!"

"Oh, do you need me to stand where you can't see so you can focus?"

"Nooo, I need to see my sunshine to paint my sunflower!" Charlie leaned over and gave Nick's cheek a quick peck.

At the end of the evening, Nick had produced a passably identifiable sunflower, while Charlie had channeled his inner Van Gogh and explored the melancholy nature of the flowers, mostly painting from the vase instead of the reference.

"Here, now you can have your very own Charlie Spring painting for you house," said Charlie, handing Nick his canvas.

"Are you sure?" said Nick. "It's amazing!"

Charlie chuckled. "It's kind of gauche to hang your own paintings. Not that I don't still do it, but only for the ones I can't bear to part with." He didn't mention that included in that list was one of the smaller studies he had done of Nick. "Can I keep the one you did?" asked Charlie.

"It's not very good," said Nick.

"That's not the point," said Charlie with a kiss.

—-

The next day, Tori and Michael met Charlie for brunch at a cute cafe near the river.

"So," said Tori.

"So," said Charlie.

"Oh my God, spill the details, I need to know everything!" said Michael, clapping giddily in contrast to the two stoic Spring siblings.

Charlie's stony face broke, and he grinned. "He took me to one of those sip and paint places," he laughed.

"Oh my God, really?" asked Michael. "That's ridiculous and adorable."

"He definitely likes you," said Tori, sipping her lemonade. "And his friends really want this to work."

"Thank you again for helping out on our first date. Also, did you know the staff at Giovanni's is terrified of you?" said Charlie.

"Good," said Tori. "I prefer it that way." Michael smiled affectionately at Tori.

"So when is your third date going to be? No hanky panky rule, right?" asked Michael.

"Shut up!" said Charlie, turning bright red. "It's not that weird to wait until the third date!"

Tori shrugged. "All sex is weird. But as long as you are happy with him."

Charlie sighed dreamily. "Yeah. I'm happy."

—

Charlie and Nick decided to FaceTime and watch the finals together. Elle was hosting a watch party at her flat, but Charlie begged off, claiming an early shift the next day. In part, he wasn't ready to talk about what was happening between him and Nick. They'd only been on two dates, but Charlie felt like it had been so much more. But there was still the distance between them. He loved his friends, but they could be fairly overprotective, and he wanted to be sure that whatever this thing with Nick was would last before he told them. Elle texted him in the afternoon before the party.

[Elle] are you sure you don't want to come?

[Elle] you can always leave early

[Charlie] it's ok, you celebrate! You deserved to win!

[Elle] I love you and don't think this is going to get you out of talking about a certain bisexual rugby lad

[Charlie] I have no idea what you could possibly mean

[Elle] you know exactly what I mean

[Elle] I know Tori work Fridays and yet you went up to Leeds a whole day early

[Elle] can't imagine why…

[Charlie] it's a lovely city! Great library!

[Elle] fine, hold out on me

[Charlie] I'm just not sure what we even are yet, I guess?

[Charlie] we text all the time but…

[Charlie] he's there and I'm here

[Elle] what's keeping you in London?

[Charlie] You and Tao. Gainful employment. Leases.

[Elle] might be time to consider a new job?

[Elle] whatever happened to the publishing career?

[Charlie] a lot of unsuccessful applications and a need to pay rent

[Elle] maybe it's time to look again?

[Elle] and get a cute author to help you make some connections ;)

Charlie was thoughtful, but needed more time before he was ready to discuss the idea. His phone buzzed as Nick called.

"Hello, darling," said Nick. "Are you ready to see how much of Owen's footage was usable?"

Charlie laughed. "Oh, almost none of it, I bet. Are you ready to see yourself on TV?"

"It's not like I've never been on TV before," said Nick. "I've done interviews and book promo. Reluctantly."

"Oh right, you're famous," teased Charlie. "I forgot. Mr. 2.8 million Instagram followers."

"Oi! Also, I thought it was 2.2."

"Your number went up with the being a famous bisexual thing," said Charlie.

"Is it too late to delete the whole thing?"

"Don't ask me, ask your agent," said Charlie. "She might even already have a binder for that." They laughed, and settled in to watch the episode together.

Chapter Text

The whistle blew, and Nick lay on the grass, staring at the sky in agony. The team doctor ran over, kneeling beside him. "Tell me where it hurts," she said.

"Knee," gasped Nick.

She gently probed around the knee, swelling already noticeable. "I'm sorry to say I think you've dislocated it, and possibly torn a tendon. We need to get you back into the locker room and get some ice on it. Don't put any weight on it. Sai! Otis! Come over, please!"

Otis and Sai jogged over from the concerned huddle of players nearby, each grabbing one of Nick's hands to pull him up onto his good leg, draping his arms over their shoulders to hop him over to the bench where the assistant trainers could take him to the locker room. Grimacing, Nick lifted his leg up, trying to avoid bending the knee before discovering that engaging his quad triggered a whole new wave of pain.

Nick lay on the table as the team doctor carefully prodded his leg, gritting his teeth. It was hardly the first time he had been injured, but it was also hardly the first time this knee had been injured, and recovery got more difficult every time.

"It's definitely dislocated. You know the drill. I'm going to count to three and move your kneecap. One... two… three!" Nick gasped as he felt his kneecap slot back into position. One of the assistants came over with bags of ice and towels. "I need to get the swelling down, but obviously, no weight on it for at least a few days. I'm worried about tendon damage, though. You've hurt this same knee a few times now."

Nick sighed. "Yeah, I know. It's an easy target for dirty tackles and I carry the ball on that side."

She put a hand on his shoulder. "I say this not as your doctor, but as your friend. Rugby isn't the only thing in your life. You have options to consider."

Nick nodded as much as was possible in his prone position. "Thanks, Amy. I appreciate it. I'm definitely going to have some time to think for a bit."

Amy lifted an eyebrow. "I'll need you around for a few days to make sure we haven't missed anything, but you know the rehab drill. And if you wanted to go to London for a few days, well, I'd sign off on that."

Nick blushed. "Have I talked about him that much?"

"Not that bad, but you and Sai forget that I can hear things when I'm in organizing the supplies closet." She patted his shoulder. "But I take doctor patient confidentiality seriously, even when the patient doesn't realize it. I need to get back out there. Need anything?"

"Can you grab my phone out of my bag? I could use a distraction."

"Sure," said Amy. "Just don't get tooooo distracted." Nick blushed harder, the tops of his ears burning.

[Nick] took a bad hit to the knee, need cute pictures to cheer me up

[Charlie] oh no! how bad is it?

[Nick] definitely dislocated, can't tell if there's other damage until we get the swelling down more

[Nick] so I'm off for at least two weeks, and Amy told me there might be a window to come down to London for a few days?

[Charlie] !!!!!

[Charlie] Attached: 1 image

[Charlie] Rupert is excited to meet you properly

[Charlie] I mean, assuming you want to come to my flat

[Charlie] it's kind of tiny and dull

[Nick] Charlie! I definitely want to see your place!

[Nick] as long as there aren't tons of stairs involved

[Nick] and I already have a date idea

[Nick] how do you feel about Korean food?

[Charlie] I have no idea?

[Charlie] I've never been a very adventurous eater

[Nick] for Korean bbq, they bring you meat to cook at the table and there's all these little plates called banchan so you can try a few things without having to commit

[Nick] but it's mostly rice and meat and you can choose to add spicy stuff or not if you want

[Charlie] ok, that sounds doable

[Nick] and as a cultural thing, most restaurants have private dining rooms

[Charlie] that seems like a step up from the manager's back office lol

[Nick] ok, once I get the all clear from the doctors, I'll let you know

[Nick] silver lining to getting injured, I guess ❤️

[Nick] sounds like the game is over

[Nick] call you tonight?

[Charlie] I've got movie night with Tao and Elle

[Charlie] but obviously lots of texting

[Charlie] Tao threatened us with Brazil this week

[Nick] I have never heard of it

[Charlie] it's directed by Terry Gilliam. It's weird

[Nick] The Monty Python guy?

[Charlie] technically yes but nothing like python… it's trippy

[Charlie] but let me know when you make it home x

The rest of the team came back to the room, the mood mostly bright and happy as the team managed to eke out a tough won victory with a final try. Amy came directly over to Nick, lifting up the ice bag. "Let's take a look, yeah?"

"How bad is it?" he asked, seeing her grimace.

"We're going straight to the imaging center after this. I think you may have something torn. How does it feel?"

"I'm not gonna lie, it hurts. Kind of a burning pain? But I also haven't tried to move anything yet "

She shook her head vigorously. "Don't. Keep the ice on for now and we're going to brace you up before we go anywhere." Coach Singh came over, patting him on the shoulder.

"How's the knee?"

"Not good. If it's just a dislocation, Nick's out for a few weeks, but if there's tearing, it may need surgery."

"A few weeks for a dislocation?" asked the coach.

"Not all of us have your trick kneecaps," shrugged Amy. "K-tape is great, but it's not going to help when he takes a burly man to the knee."

"And whether we like it or not," said Nick, "I've been more of a target this season. Though this one seemed like a legitimate accident."

"Your knee can't tell the difference," said Amy. "I'll got get that brace for you."

"Well, we can hope for the best," said his coach with a shoulder pat before walking off. Sai came over to join Nick.

"Do you want me to run over to your place and get your office set up so you don't have to do the stairs?" asked Sai.

"That would be great, yeah. Sorry about this all," said Nick.

Sai laughed. "Mate, you didn't hit yourself in the knee! It's just a shame a certain someone doesn't live closer to come take care of you."

"Amy may have hinted that I should take a trip down to London while I'm on injury reserve," said Nick, blushing. "But we've only been on two dates. It's too soon to talk about moving," sighed Nick.

Christian and Otis's heads whipped around. "Dates? Nick has been on dates plural with someone and we haven't heard all about it?" demanded Christian.

"I… we're keeping it a bit quiet for now. Dating me can be a lot."

"Mate, it's not like any of us are running off to the tabloids to tell," said Otis.

Sai gave Otis and Christian a look. "You really don't want to get him started, he'll never manage to talk about anything else ever again."

"Oi! I'm not that bad!"

"Then why do I know that his cat is named Rupert after Rupert Grint ironically because he's not a ginger tabby?" rebuffed Sai. "It's certainly not because I asked!"

"It's a he?" asked Christian, a bit too excited. "Wait, is it that artist? Charlie?"

Nick turned bright red and wished for the ability to vanish. He was pretty sure all of his ice was going to instantly melt in the heat of his embarrassment. He gave a tiny nod.

"Well done, mate! He's proper talented!" said Otis.

"You'll have to introduce us next time he's in Leeds," said Christian.

"I'm not bringing him anywhere near you lunkheads!" said Nick. "You'll scare him away!"

Amy came back over with a monstrosity of metal and neoprene. "Ok lads, stop tormenting my patient. Let's get this on and get your glamour shots taken." She gently lifted Nick's leg, sliding the brace underneath and wrapping it around. Her assistant stood by with crutches. Amy helped Nick pivot and swing his leg down without bending, a bolt of pain coming as he flexed his quad wrong and it pulled on his kneecap. There were lots of supportive comments as he hobbled out of the locker room into the waiting team van. Sai followed behind with his bag and phone, digging out his keys.

"Let me know if there's anything else I can do to help, alright?" said Sai.

"Thanks, I appreciate it. It shouldn't take too long. At least I got out of post game interviews, I guess?"

Sai gave him a serious look. "Listen. Don't be stupid about your injuries. You're not getting any younger, and maybe early retirement wouldn't be the worst thing. Get out before something more important gets hurt." He tapped Nick on the head. "Or at least think about it."

"I promise to think about it," said Nick. "I should probably call Darcy and let her know what's up."

"Ok, mate. I'll see you at your place in a bit."

Nick sighed and dialed Darcy.

—-

Charlie arrived at Elle and Tao's flat, bottle of wine in hand. He was worried about Nick, but there was nothing he could do from here. His most recent message had mentioned not having a phone for a while as Nick went back for an MRI. He tried to swallow his anxiety and put on a happy face as he knocked.

"Charlie!" said Tao happily, before pausing as he looked at Charlie's face. "What's wrong? Who do I need to hurt?"

"Nobody! I'm fine! It's.. it's fine."

Tao glowered. Elle appeared over his shoulder. "Honey, we should at least let Charlie in before you start grilling him."

"Fair." Tao gave Charlie a hug and stepped out of the way.

"But seriously. What's up?" asked Tao.

"Nothing! I'm here, let's have movie night?"

"Is something wrong with Nick?" Elle asked.

"Wait, is there something going on with Nick?" asked Tao.

Charlie crumpled. "He got hurt today and I can't be there for him and it sucks." Elle gave him a kind hug.

"Oh sweetie, that's tough."

"Are you actually dating Nick?" Tao asked, confused.

Charlie held up two fingers. "We've gone on two whole dates. Between the distance and avoiding the paparazzi and schedules, it's been really hard to find time."

"Wait, really?" asked Tao.

"Come on, keep up." Elle herded them all into the main room.

She sat Charlie down in a chair, taking the bottle of wine and vanishing into the kitchen. Returning with full glasses, she draped herself on the arm of the couch, arm around Tao both to calm him, but to be positioned to restrain him if he overreacted to something.

"So start from the beginning. Obviously, we know how you met, but where did it go from there?"

Charlie told an abbreviated version of their texting, the first kiss at the finale with the assistance of Owen the cameraman, Darcy's date planning hijinks, the even more texting. When he got to their date in Leeds, Tao finally interrupted.

"And you didn't tell us anything?" said Tao.

"I was worried… I was worried it wouldn't work out and that I was being stupid about the whole thing and I just wanted to let Elle be the center of attention because she won and everything."

Tao looked hurt. "But… we're your friends."

"Be honest, long distance dating a pro athlete who only just came out is a stupid idea," said Charlie.

"Well, yes. But you can still tell us about what's going on in your life."

"I just wanted to be sure what I was feeling was real, not just lust, or like a celebrity crush that's safe because nothing could ever happen," said Charlie, staring forlornly at his phone. "But when he told me he'd gotten hurt today…" Charlie sniffled, wiping his eyes with a sleeve cuff. "I know he plays rugby and it's a rough sport. I get it, really. It's just that I can't help him from here."

Elle pat Charlie on the shoulder. "It's ok to be upset. Has anything happened since that date?"

"Texting. FaceTime. We talk, like, all the time." Charlie's phone buzzed, and he immediately checked it, breathing a sigh of relief. "He's out of the hospital and on his way home."

Tao looked at Charlie's face, and put on his fake stern face. "Well, tell him he better not be messing you around, or else…"

"You'll murder him?" asked Charlie.

"More like a strongly worded DM," acquiesced Tao. "I am aware of my own limitations."

Charlie giggled. "Thanks. And I'm sorry for not telling you sooner. He said he might be coming down to London while he's on the injured list. If you guys want to meet him? Like a double date?"

Elle looked at Tao. "For your third date? Nope, we can wait," she said with a grin. "We don't want to make the end of the evening awkward for you." Tao snorted.

"For all we know, they've already done it," he said.

"No, I remember Charlie's rules. I don't think he's broken all of them for Nick. Have you?"

Charlie shook his head, blushing furiously. "No, though a knee injury may… impede certain activities."

"I'm sure you can be creative," teased Elle.

"Speaking of creative," proclaimed Tao, "It is movie night, and therefore time for the creative genius of the one and only Terry Gilliam!"

"No, first it's time to order pizza," corrected Elle.

"You better not spend the whole evening texting," Tao warned Charlie.

"No promises!" he said, giggling, head down in his phone already.

[Charlie] told Elle and Tao about us

[Charlie] I hope that was ok

[Nick] actually, I wound up telling some of my teammates about us today too

[Nick] I'm not ashamed of us at all, Charlie

[Nick] I just don't want you to have to deal with the tabloid bullshit

[Charlie] you shouldn't have to deal with it just because you're good at sports

[Nick] I'm honestly used to it

[Charlie] still

[Charlie] I knew it was part of the package

[Charlie] though not the package I'm looking forward to 😘

[Nick] you minx! Sai is still here getting stuff arranged so I don't have to do the stairs

[Nick] it's feeling better, but I have to keep the monster brace on for a few days

[Charlie] I'm sorry I'm not there to help you right now

[Charlie] and for cuddles

[Charlie] and makeouts

[Nick] ❤️❤️❤️

[Nick] Amy said I'm out for three weeks, and after Monday's check up, she doesn't want to see me for at least a week

[Nick] soo….

[Charlie] I'd offer my place, but there's two flights of stairs

[Charlie] but I see what shifts I can move around at work?

"Charlie! Pizza's here!" yelled Elle.

[Charlie] pizzas here, gtg movie night

[Nick] painkillers are kicking in, gonna be asleep in a minute x

[Nick] ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[Charlie] 😘

Charlie put away his phone with a grin and joined Elle and Tao in their kitchen.

In the end, Nick couldn't make it to London until Wednesday, needing to do a follow on appointment after Monday to make sure that after a day in the lighter brace, there was no new swelling or damage. He was supposed to walk as normally as possible, but avoid stairs or jogging or anything that caused pain. Charlie had been able to swap shifts with Lucas and gotten Thursday off. Nick got off the train in London and ordered an Uber to the hotel.

[Nick] made it to London, should be at my hotel soon

[Nick] did you want to meet there or at the restaurant

[Charlie] sorry, I need a shower desperately

[Charlie] we got a huge shipment in today

[Nick] what did we say about the s-word?

[Charlie] but I'm depriving you of kisses!

[Nick] I'm hoping we'll still manage plenty of those

[Nick] maybe bring some pajamas and we can have a sleepover 😘

[Charlie] I was certainly hoping for something like that

[Charlie] see you soon, gotta hop in the shower

Nick blushed, thinking a bit too hard about that mental image. He had a polite chat with his driver about the season and his thoughts on their odds at making the playoffs. He checked into his room, grateful for the unspoken second key, and the private lift to his floor. He changed from his comfortable travel clothes to dark green trousers and a tight leafy button down. Checking his phone, he headed to the restaurant.

Nick was politely led to a small room with a small table with a grill in the center, and well-disguised ventilation in the ceiling. He sat down, fretting about if he should order them something to drink or appetizers when the hostess arrived with Charlie. He was wearing tight black jeans and a soft blue jumper.

"Hi," said Nick, standing with a wince.

"Hi," said Charlie. "You didn't have to stand up!"

"But I needed my kiss!"

"Are you sure? We're in public. The waiter could show up anytime," said Charlie.

"So in addition to the private dining room, a lot of Korean restaurants have my other favorite thing!" Nick gestured at a box on the side of the table. "It's the waiter button! Other than when they deliver your order, they won't swing by to check on you, you can just summon them with the button! So if I want to kiss my boyfriend without anyone staring…" Nick paused, leaning in for a gentle kiss that made Charlie melt.

"Boyfriend?" asked Charlie with a shy smile.

"Is that ok? I know this is only our third date but…"

"No no! It's perfect!" Charlie grinned as he leaned in for a kiss. "Boyfriend."

They ordered one of the preset menus for two, Charlie relieved to not have to guess what things were in advance, and Nick reassuring him that he would eat whatever Charlie didn't like. They sat next to each other, Nick's hand casually on Charlie's knee, the warmth setting Charlie's whole body ablaze. When Nick hand fed him a piece of meat and onions wrapped up in lettuce, Charlie was sure he was going to melt through the floor.

"How is your knee feeling?" he asked as Nick paused to massage his leg.

"Not great, but getting better. Still, it's made me think. When I started, rugby was the only thing I really ever felt like I was good at, you know? But I guess I know that's not true now."

"I mean, you've only topped the YA bestsellers list a few times," teased Charlie.

"And I wonder how much better my writing could be if I did it full time. Or if I could finally write more for adults."

Charlie rubbed Nick's uninjured leg. "I won't lie, it was scary hearing you were hurt. But it's about what makes you happy. If playing rugby still makes you happy, then you should keep playing. If something else makes you happy instead, maybe pursue that."

Nick caught Charlie's gaze. "You make me happy."

Charlie blushed and bit his lower lip. "You already caught me." He paused for a moment. "I've been thinking a lot, too. Being a shop clerk wasn't exactly what I went to uni for. And I know I had some thoughts about teaching, but books are really my true love. But after a bad relationship and some… mental health stuff, I never got back to looking for the job I really wanted, and now I worry it's too late."

"What did you want to do with books? Write?" Nick put his hand on top of Charlie's, making small circles with his thumb.

"I always wanted to get into publishing as maybe be an editor someday."

"Well," Nick smiled, "I might have a few connections."

"I don't know, I want to get a job because I've earned it, you know?" Charlie tilted his head and looked at Nick.

"That doesn't mean you can't learn more about what the job really is like, or hear about openings. Networking, not nepotism. But I'm happy to help."

"I have such a good boyfriend," purred Charlie. His grin grew mischievous. "I'm done eating food. How about you?"

Nick swallowed, his eyes dark. "Let me pay, and then back to my hotel?"

"Separately or together?" asked Charlie.

"If you're ok with it, together?"

Charlie smiled at Nick. "Worst case, I'll quit Twitter. My siblings and friends already know about you."

Nick pressed the button to let the waitstaff know they needed something and paid the check. "You know, this was our third date, right?" said Charlie.

"I may have been counting," said Nick. "Boyfriend." He grinned and kissed Charlie's cheek.

—---

Waking up next to Charlie the next morning, Nick rolled over, marveling in the tumble of soft, dark curls and long lashes. He lay there just staring at the beautiful man he gets to call his boyfriend.

"You're staring, aren't you," mumbled Charlie.

"Sorry, I thought you were still sleeping."

"Mm, mostly. Gotta pee." Nick gave Charlie a quick kiss on the cheek before giving him space to sit up and get out of bed. Nick groaned as he moved his knee, feeling through his range of motion.

Charlie stood in the swanky hotel bathroom, brushing his teeth. This hadn't been what he had anticipated when he signed up with Elle for a painting competition, that was certain. He hadn't expected to fall in love like this. He paused, looking at himself. He was in love, wasn't he? Because even with the distance, the best part of his day was talking to Nick. The previous night had been fantastic, but it was confirmation of what he already knew. Charles Francis Spring was madly in love with Nicholas Lucas Nelson. Like move halfway across the country in love. But was it too soon?

"Are you alright in there?" called Nick.

Charlie quickly finished brushing and spit in the sink. "Sorry, just got distracted."

"Can I come pee now?"

Charlie laughed. "Let me get out of your way. Do you want to take a shower while I order room service for breakfast?"

"That sounds good. Maybe some hot water can help loosen up my leg muscles."

"If not, I can attempt a massage later. No promises about not getting distracted while I have your strong rugby thighs under my hands, though."

"We've got all day," grinned Nick.

—----

On Friday, Charlie had to go to work again, leaving Nick alone in the hotel to think about what Sai and Amy had said. He called Darcy.

"Hey Nick, how's the knee doing?" asked Darcy.

"Sore but improving. Doing all my rehab exercises, trying not to get carried away and reinjure it."

"I mean, I hope you've gotten a little carried away down there, my man!"

"No comment," said Nick, feeling himself blushing. "But this injury has me thinking, and Amy and Sai made some comments…"

"Is it time for Plan Stop Letting The Author Get Hit In The Head? Not my best name, I admit, but it's a sound plan."

"I… I think so. I kind of think I want to finish the season, but…"

"But rugby isn't the most important thing in your life anymore. And it's not bad timing, since your current contract runs out this year anyway."

"I guess I feel guilty about coming out and then immediately running away?" said Nick. "Like I owe it to the community or something?"

"But it's not biphobia making you retire, it's the kind of injury that even if you were closeted, I think we'd still talking about it. Though maybe a certain curly haired boy friend might have you thinking about other benefits of retirement."

"He's my boyfriend, not my boy space friend, actually." Nick held the phone away from his ear as Darcy squealed.

Darcy started talking a mile a minute. "Ok, ok, so the next step is talking to your coaches. I can hedge responses to new contracts until you're ready to make the announcement, I'd suggest after you've been back for a couple games. Are you willing to do a signing tour for the next book? It would definitely help the narrative that you're retiring to focus on writing, plus your publisher is dying to have you finally do one. I'll draft some posts for you for when you're ready. I'll send you the electronic version of the binder to read while you're laid up."

"Darcy, slow down! I just realized I want to retire. Give me a minute to process."

"Are you going to tell Charlie?"

"I mean, yeah? We talked some at dinner, but I hadn't decided yet. I don't want him to feel like I'm leaving rugby just because I'm in love with him."

"Did Nicholas Nelson just use the l word?!"

"Uh, yeah? I guess. Shit. We've only been on three dates. Is it too soon?"

Darcy laughed. "Don't ask me, I'm a lesbian. We move in together by the third date! Have you talked about where you want to end up?"

"Ugh, no. I'm trying not to come on too strong or be too clingy."

"You are a koala bear… clingy is just who you are. Talk to him. Enjoy being in London. Do you mind if I set up a meeting with your publisher as a cover for why you're down there, by the way?"

"I'm supposed to have cover concepts to review soon, I could do that in person."

"Great! I'll plan something for Monday. Have a good weekend!"

"Bye, Darce!"

Nick hung up and looked at the ceiling of his hotel room. He wasn't going to have to be rugby Nick and author Nick anymore. He was going to just be… Nick. He sat up and walked over to the desk where his laptop was waiting, opened up a document, and started writing.

Chapter Text

After two more glorious days with Charlie, Nick stood in front of the lift in his editor's building. He hated taking it up only three floors, but he was still supposed to avoid stairs. A man wearing a slightly wrinkled button down and oversized blazer stood next to him to wait. "You're Nick Nelson, right?" Nick nodded. "Heard about the injury, man. Knees are a tough one to rehab." The bell dinged and the door opened. Nick pressed the button for the third floor, less self conscious than he had been before the man commented.

"Sorry, I missed your name?" asked Nick.

"Russel," he said, extending a hand. "Big fan of your books as well."

"Oh, thanks! I'm definitely getting some writing done while I'm on injury," said Nick.

"I'll look forward to it then," said Russel with a small smile as the elevator stopped for Nick.

Nick waved as he walked into the lobby of the YA division, waving at the receptionist as he headed straight to Imogen's office. "Hey Gen! Long time, no see in person!"

"Zoom is definitely not the same," said Imogen, standing up for a hug. "So what brings you to London that you need decoy meetings?"

"Hey, we have very serious book seven content to discuss and cover ideas for book six. And I don't know if Darcy mentioned it, but after this season, I'm actually willing to do a signing tour," said Nick, lowering himself into a chair on his good leg, trying not to wince.

"Fair enough. And if a certain conversation I happen to know is happening upstairs goes the way I expect, we'll have a lot more to talk about," said Imogen cryptically.

"I should have the revisions on book 6 back in a couple weeks, but I'm thinking I want to change narrators for the next book."

Imogen leaned forward, interested. "Who are you thinking?"

"So we've been following Alex for the first six books, but he's about to go off to university. I'm debating between switching to either his younger sister Olive, or moving to a total new perspective. Instead of the kids who were part of the initial contact, kids who have kind of grown up with this as their new normal. Any thoughts?"

"Oh, I'm going to have to think about that before I can have a real opinion. You mentioned a signing tour?"

"After the season is over, which should mostly line up with the next book." Nick sighed. "If I'm being honest with myself, I might have two more good seasons left if I stay lucky. But another bad hit to the knee will end my career anyway."

Imogen gave him a kind smile. "And a certain artist has nothing to do with it?"

"I have no idea what you are trying to insinuate, Gen." said Nick, arms folded across his chest.

"I watched your episode. You couldn't stop making heart eyes at him, and that hug was a little long to be platonic, even for you." Imogen looked at Nick knowingly.

"Actually," said Nick. "Related to the reason I'm in London, would you be willing to do an informational interview with a… friend?"

"Any time for a significant pause friend of yours. Is he looking for a job?"

"Starting to - he works at a bookstore right now, but he's got an English Lit degree from UCL."

"We're actually going to be posting a couple jobs later this week. Have him send a CV over and I'll be sure to take a look at it," said Imogen. "There's a few remote positions, too," she said with a wink. "In case you weren't thinking about moving to London."

"Thanks, Imogen. So what was this meeting upstairs?"

Imogen held a finger to her lips. "Can't tell you yet." She looked at her computer. "I've got to run to another meeting, but as soon as I have news I'm allowed to share, I will. And I promise to think about Book 7 if you promise to actually take some time off and enjoy yourself for a bit."

Nick gave a crooked grin. "Someone is making sure of that when he's not at work."

"You rascal!" said Imogen as they exited her office. Nick walked slowly back to the lift. As the door opened, he was surprised to see Russel again.

"Why, hello again Nick!" he said, holding the door. "How was your meeting?"

"Pretty good. I assume you also had a meeting?"

"Indeed I did. I've made a proposal, and hopefully the author decides to accept it."

The lift dinged as they reached the ground floor. "Well, I hope you hear from your author soon," said Nick.

"I rather expect I will," said Russel with a grin.

—--

"Do you want to meet Tao and Elle tomorrow?" asked Charlie over dinner. They had decided to go out to a small curry place in Charlie's neighborhood, feeling a little cooped up in the hotel.

"That sounds good," replied Nick. "As long as there's a lift."

"You don't think I could carry you up the stairs?"

"I'd rather not have you drop me halfway up," said Nick. "I'm kind of a bit bigger than you."

"Are you saying I'm small and weak?"

"No, no, I didn't mean that.." Nick rubbed his neck, flustered as Charlie giggled.

"They have a lift. I have to warn you, Tao can be… acerbic when he meets new people. But Elle will love you!"

"Just let me know what time to be there," said Nick. "Oh! I forgot! Imogen said they're hiring right now and to send over your CV."

"Who's Imogen?"

"She's the editor I work with. She mentioned a few of the positions were remote as well, if that's something you might be interested in?"

"I'll have to clean it up a little bit and write a cover letter. Can you send me her contact?" asked Charlie.

"Absolutely!"

"Which sadly means that I should probably go back to my own place tonight."

Nick reached over to squeeze Charlie's hand. "I know we want to make the most of the time we have, but it's ok, darling. I'm still here until Thursday."

"Darling?"

"Sorry, do you not like it?"

"No, I loved it! Say it again?"

"Never!" laughed Nick. "I can't have my boyfriend knowing that I l.. like him. A lot." Nick's face was practically glowing with embarrassment. He had almost just told Charlie he loved him by accident.

Charlie gave Nick a soft smile. "I like you a lot too."

"Why are we like this?" laughed Nick.

"I don't know, but I like us," said Charlie.

—----

Charlie and Nick were snuggled up watching a movie together Tuesday afternoon when Nick's phone rang. "Hey Nick, gotta minute?" asked Darcy.

"Just watching a movie with Charlie. What's up?"

"Someone wants to pick up rights to make a TV show out of your books. And I really really think you should consider this one… I don't get the impression they just want to sit on it. I'm sending over some things for you to review."

"Really?!" Nick sat upright, slightly dislodging a cuddly Charlie who gave him an indignant look.

"It's some initial contract language, but importantly, they want you on board as part of the writing team, so I've also sent a draft of your retirement announcement. I know you want to be back for a game or two before making it official but a lot of things may be moving very quickly. Plan Neil Gaiman Impersonation is go!"

"Oh. Wow! Ok! How fast do you need an answer?"

"We have until Friday," said Darcy.

"Um, ok. Thanks. Wow."

"Ok, my guy, I let you get back to being a ridiculous sap. Tell Charlie hi!"

"Bye Darce," said Nick, hanging up.

Charlie looked up at Nick's stunned expression and kissed his cheek. "Big news, I take it?"

"How much did you hear?" asked Nick.

"Like, basically all of it. The phone was all of a foot away from my ear, after all. You're retiring?" Charlie's face was quietly hopeful.

"If my knee gets injured again, I won't have a choice. I'd rather do it on my terms at the end of the season. My contract is up anyway, so the timing is good." said Nick, watching Charlie's face carefully.

Charlie's phone buzzed.

[Tao] what time were you planning to be over?

[Tao] and is pizza ok?

Charlie checked his watch. "So it's 3:30 now, are you ok with another hour of cuddles and getting over to their place at 5? Plus pizza?"

Nick smiled, and kissed Charlie's curls. "That sounds perfect. I have to get as many cuddles in as I can, after all." Charlie snuggled back against Nick's broad chest as he replied to Tao.

[Charlie] 5:00 ok? And pizza is fine

[Charlie] Nick is anti-pineapple, and you know my order

[Tao] excellent

[Tao] tell your rugby lad NO MARVEL

[Charlie] wait, he gets to have input?

[Tao] I was going to pretend to consider his suggestions

[Charlie] who are you and what have you done with Tao?

[Tao] Elle told me too

[Charlie] ahhhh, whipped Tao

[Charlie] that makes more sense

[Tao] RRRRRRUUUUUDDDE!

After setting an alarm, Nick and Charlie took a brief nap, arriving only five minutes late after getting thoroughly distracted in the hotel room.

"Chaarrliiee!" squealed Elle as she answered the door. "You made it!"

"You saw me, like, two weeks ago!"

"But you're glowing! I take it things are going well?" She looked back and forth between the two men. Charlie giggled. "Come in, come in! Tao went to pick up pizzas, but he'll be back in a minute."

Nick and Charlie went in, taking off their shoes. The apartment was beautifully decorated with soft, welcoming colors and a mix of paintings and movie memorabilia covering the walls. "So I know how you two met, and I've gotten Charlie's side of the story, but tell me yours, Nick."

With a sappy smile, Nick looked over at Charlie. "Well, my agent talked me into doing the show, but then instead of an artist, this work of art showed up at my house." Charlie blushed furiously.

"You didn't tell me he was such a charmer, Charlie!"

"To be fair, I didn't tell you much of anything," retorted Charlie.

"Which is totally my fault," said Nick. "I'm the one who wasn't out, and even though I didn't ask him to keep us a secret, Charlie is too good of a person to out someone." Elle nodded as Tao opened the door.

"Pizzas have arrived!" he announced dramatically. Elle stood up to help and kiss her boyfriend on the cheek.

"Charlie has finally managed to find someone who is as bad as he is about taking blame for things," said Elle.

"Wow. Is that even possible?"

"Hey! I'm not that bad!" said Charlie. All three of the others stared at him.

"I had to ban the s-word the first day I met you," said Nick.

"Really?!" asked Elle. "That's so adorable!'

"They aren't puppies, Elle" grumbled Tao. "Though Nick does have golden retriever vibes."

"Thanks?" said Nick. "I mean, I do fetch balls for a living." Charlie burst out laughing.

Conversation was free and easy, Nick fitting into the banter with relatively little friction. While Tao occasionally lobbed barbs, Nick was usually able to find a witty retort, or Charlie would leap to his defense. When they weren't occupied with eating, they would naturally find themselves holding hands or cuddled together, rarely breaking contact. Despite Tao's depressing movie choice, everyone was having a good evening.

Nick gave Charlie's forehead a kiss as he stood up to go to the loo. "Be back in a minute, darling" said Nick.

Tao and Elle exchanged a look as Charlie sighed.

"What's wrong?" asked Elle.

"Is it too soon to tell him that I love him?" asked Charlie softly.

"Do you love him?" asked Tao.

"I mean, he's amazing. He's so sweet and smart and I love the time we're spending together. But he's going back to Leeds and I'm still going to be here." Charlie stared at his knees, fidgeting with the tear in his jeans. "I just don't know how I fit into his life."

"Have you talked to him about it?" said Elle gently.

"We keep getting distracted," said Charlie, blushing. "But I know, I need to use my words." They heard water running and a door open.

"Did I miss anything? You all look sad?" asked Nick.

"We were actually watching the film without you two whispering and distracting us," said Tao.

"Oh, right. Sorry." Charlie snuggled up against Nick, threading their hands together.

"I'm not," whispered Charlie.

—--

Charlie had to work again Wednesday. He was reorganizing the display of romance novels that had been left in total disarray by the last group of customers when he saw he had a call from an unknown number.

"Hello?"

"Hi! Is this Charlie Spring?"

"Speaking."

"This is Imogen Heany with Falling Leaves Press. Do you have a minute to chat?"

"Oh! Hi! Yeah, let me just clock out and take my break," he said, walking to the backroom and miming at Becky, who responded with an enthusiastic thumbs up.

"Sorry about that, how can I help you?" said Charlie.

"Well, we looked over your CV and I'd like to send you a few writing samples to review. I know it's short notice, but do you think you can get us a response by Friday?"

"Absolutely!"

"Great! And then the next step would be an interview with a few of our senior editors to get a sense for where you best fit. You have a really impressive CV, Charlie."

"Really? But I've been working retail for the last three years."

"Which means you have a good sense for what books actually move and hook readers. It's rare for us to find someone who gets both sides. But I'll send you those samples ASAP, and please, reach out if you have questions."

"Thanks Imogen, I will."

"Have a great day!"

"Thanks, you too!"

Charlie hung up the call and immediately opened his messages to text Nick.

[Charlie] Imogen just texted - I have some samples to edit, but it sounds like I'm at least going to get an interview!

[Nick] Congratulations!

[Nick] we don't have to do dinner tonight if you need the time

[Charlie] but you go back to Leeds tomorrow!

[Charlie] I'm not giving up my last night with you

[Nick] last night for now

[Nick] boyfriend ❤️

[Charlie] ❤️

[Charlie] gtg, my break is over

[Charlie] I'll come to your hotel after work x

"I love you," whispered Charlie to his phone.

They decided to have room service that night, the mood a little quieter and melancholy. "I'm not ready to go back to Leeds," said Nick.

"But your life is there," said Charlie.

"Charlie, I hope you realize you're a part of my life now."

"I guess I'm just not sure how I fit in. Long term, I mean."

Nick adjusted so he could meet Charlie's eyes. "You want us to be a long term thing too?"

"Nick, I've never met anyone like you. You make me so happy. You're smart, and kind, and funny, and incredibly fit. I'd have to be crazy to not want you. I just… I just don't know how to do long distance."

"I think we've been doing pretty well so far. And there's a lot of balls in the air right now. I'm afraid we're just going to have to be patient."

"I don't want to be patient, I want to skip ahead to being an old married couple," pouted Charlie.

Nick smiled and kissed Charlie's protruding lower lip. "And miss the honeymoon phase?"

"Ok, maybe not skipping over that part," giggled Charlie.

The next morning, Nick and Charlie stood at the door to the hotel room, kissing.

"I don't want you to leave," murmured Charlie.

"I wish I could just take you with me," said Nick.

"Stupid being grownups."

"Definitely overrated."

"Text me when you get home safe?

"And when I get to the train station. And when I'm on the train. And.."

Charlie cut him off with a kiss. "I mean, I do have to finish these edits for Imogen."

"Fiiiine," whined Nick. After a big final hug, Charlie opened the door with a sigh.

"I…" Charlie hesitated. "I'll really miss you."

"I'll miss you too," said Nick.

He picked up his bags and walked to the lift to go meet his car to the station. Why couldn't he just say it? I love you. It's just three words. But now, he'd missed his chance to say it in person. He sighed as he slid into the Uber for a silent ride.

Chapter Text

[Nick] back at my house. I forgot how quiet it is here

[Charlie] I've got comments done on two of three writing samples

[Charlie] missing you already x

[Nick] me too x

[Nick] I have an early session with the trainers to asses the knee

[Nick] not playing this weekend, but probably back on the pitch next week

[Charlie] when's the next bye week on your schedule?

[Nick] not for another three weeks

[Nick] and once I'm cleared, I'm going to have to do a bunch of extra training to get back in condition

[Nick] injuries suck

[Charlie] I'm glad we got the time we did, at least

[Charlie] would it be ok if I came up to you for that?

[Charlie] it's ok to say no!

[Charlie] I don't want to impose!

[Nick] no, I want you to come!

[Nick] I need to introduce my boyfriend to my friends

[Charlie] ❤️❤️

[Charlie] I'll book train tickets

[Charlie] should I get a room?

[Nick] why would you do that when I have a perfectly good king bed?

Nick flopped onto the aforementioned bed and took a selfie.

[Nick] Attached: 1 image

[Charlie] tease 😘

[Nick] laying down may have been a mistake

[Nick] zzzzzz

[Charlie] go get your beauty rest, sweetheart

[Charlie] talk to you in the morning x

[Nick] good night, darling

Nick sighed. He wanted nothing more than to have Charlie curled up next to him right now. His house felt big and lonely in a way it never had before. It had only ever been him in the house, bigger than he needed but picked with an optimistic eye towards having a family. He'd even looked into the neighborhood schools when he bought it. Would Charlie want to move in with him? Did he want marriage? Kids? Charlie had made a joke about being an old married couple. Did he really mean it? Nick groaned. He needed to get over himself and just talk to Charlie. But every time he tried to bring it up, he chickened out again, or they got interrupted.

Charlie dropped his phone onto his bedside table. Spending a week with Nick in London had been amazing. They'd finally had their third date, and confirmed that the compatibility they had talking was also true for other aspects of their relationship. If only there wasn't a four hour train ride in the way again. He'd missed his chance to tell Nick that he loved him. Ugh. And he'd totally told Nick he wanted to be an old married couple. Was it too much? Maybe Nick wasn't really looking to settle down like that. He'd lived on his own for years, after all. Did he really want someone else to come into his space? Or to find a new place together? Charlie really loved Nick's house. It was cozy and quiet and felt like home from the moment he had walked in. If this job panned out, would it be possible? Charlie sighed as Rupert climbed across his face. Imogen had said Friday, but hadn't specified a time, so Charlie's anxious mind had decided that really meant by midnight Thursday. He got up and padded over to his desk and opened his laptop.

Charlie woke up, bleary eyed, to the sound of his phone ringing. Who was calling him at.. 9 am? Ok, maybe it wasn't that early, he had just stayed up that late.

"Hello?" he said groggily.

"Hi!" said a chipper female voice. "It's Imogen from Fallen Leaves Press."

"Oh, hi Imogen."

"So I looked through your comments, and I'd really like to bring you in for an interview as soon as possible. Are you free at all today, or what's your availability next week?"

"Um." He blinked and tried to remember what day it was. Friday, right. "I'm actually free today."

"Great! Can you do 1 o'clock?"

Charlie ran through his mental checklist. If he swapped to a safer lunch, he could do it. "Yes, absolutely."

"Great! I'll make sure the receptionist has your name. We're on the third floor."

"Third floor. Got it. Thanks."

"See you soon!" she said before hanging up.

[Charlie] good morning 😘

[Charlie] hope the knee stuff is going well

[Charlie] I've got an interview at 1, so might not be checking my phone

He put his phone down, not expecting an immediate response. It buzzed almost instantly.

[Nick] congratulations!

[Nick] knee is as good as can be expected

[Nick] lots of time on the stationary bike today

[Charlie] I guess they really liked my comments?

[Nick] that's not too surprising - you've been such a great sounding board

[Charlie] I need to go get ready and actually iron a shirt for the first time in years

[Nick] good luck and I know you're going to do great ❤️

Charlie arrived at his interview a carefully calculated 10 minutes early, achieved in part by pacing about a block away for 25 minutes until he wouldn't be egregiously early. Going up the lift, he gave the receptionist his name, and was directed to a conference room. He was greeted by a bubbly brunette who turned out to be Imogen, a black man named Robert and a South Asian woman, Priyanka. They asked a lot about what kind of books he read, whether he was interested in writing himself, communication styles and work habits. Charlie found them all very easy to talk to, and the answers flowed freely. Much to his relief, the subject of Nick didn't come up. He knew Imogen was aware, but the other two seemed genuinely excited by his potential.

As he walked out, Imogen shook his hand. "It will probably take us a few days to put together a formal offer package, but you should definitely expect to hear something soon. Priya and I just have to arm wrestle over which department you go to." Charlie laughed. Imogen was the lead YA editor, while Priya was in charge of Romance, either of which Charlie would be happy with.

In the meantime, Nick had finished his workout and showered. Seeing the door open to the coaches' office, Nick peeked his head inside.

"Hey! Nick! How's the knee?" asked Coach Singh.

"Recovering nicely. Do you have a minute?"

"Sure! What's up?"

Nick came in, closing the door behind him. Coach Singh raised an inquisitive eyebrow. He sat down in the chair with a sigh.

"So I wanted to tell you first before anything goes through management, but I'm planning on retiring at the end of this season."

"Is there a problem in the locker room? I meant what I said about the one strike rule."

Nick shook his head. "No, no, that's been fine. Better than I hoped, really. But I've had a lot of time to think. Between the knee injury and some other developments, plus with my contract coming up, it just seems like the right time."

"What kind of other developments?"

Nick turned to check the door was still shut. "This can't leave this room, because I only just signed the paperwork, but my books are getting optioned for a TV show, and they want me directly involved."

Coach Singh leaned back in her chair. "And here I thought you were going to tell me you and Charlie had finally made it official."

"How did you know?"

She laughed. "Your face when he texts is ridiculous, and you can't stop talking about him. You have no chill, Nelson. So I take it that is another development?"

"Sort of. I don't know where we're going next yet. Long distance is hard."

"Well, you'll figure it out one way or another. We'll hate to see you go, but I'd much rather it be on your own terms."

"Exactly," said Nick, breathing a sigh of relief. "Darcy wants to wait until my second game back to do the press announcement."

"We can work with that."

Nick stood up and opened the door. " Thanks for understanding, coach."

"And introduce us to Charlie sometime, yeah?"

"I will, I promise," said Nick as he walked out.

Back in his kitchen, Nick called Charlie to video chat.

"Hi!"

"Hi," laughed Charlie. "How was your day?"

"Good! Amy gave me the all clear to play next week and," Nick paused, hesitating.

"And?"

"I told my Coach I'm retiring at the end of the season?"

"Really?! That's big news!"

"But how did your interview go?"

"Really well! Imogen said to expect a formal offer next week."

"That's amazing! I wish I was there so we could celebrate!"

Charlie smiled. "I wish you were here too. Or that I was there. How does it feel to be home?"

"It's weird. Nothing has changed, but it feels like I'm rattling around in a big empty house that's too big for just me. Like, there's an entire room I never use, and that doesn't include the two guest bedrooms." Nick ran a hand through his hair.

"But I love your house. At least the parts I've seen. For all I know, your upstairs is an eldritch horror that defies the laws of physics."

"No," Nick laughed, "no House of Leaves going on here. Just bought a house expecting a future that never happened," said Nick. "Wife, kids, the works."

"Well, personally, I would prefer you not have a wife, but… kids don't have to be off the table, you know," said Charlie, eyes full of emotion.

"God I want to kiss you right now," said Nick. "Did you know that you're actually perfect?"

"I'm not sure about that, but I definitely want to kiss you too. Among other things."

They kept talking until late in the evening, Nick eventually having to beg off so he could attend the game with the team in the morning, even if he wasn't playing.

On Sunday, Nick called his mum the same way he did almost every week since he first left for uni.

"Nicky! My love! I missed our call last week. Did you have a good time with Charlie?"

"We had a really good time," said Nick.

"I hear a but coming," said Sarah. Nick sighed and smiled.

"Is it too soon to tell him I love him?"

"No."

Nick waited in case more advice was forthcoming. "Really?"

"What do you want me to say? You very obviously love him. I'm pretty sure he loves you too. You may not have been on that many dates yet, but it's been a few months, and you talk every day."

"I guess when you put it that way." Nick sighed. "But I want to say it in person, not over FaceTime. And now that I'm back, there's really not another break for almost a month."

"Well, that's a trickier problem. But you'll know when the moment is right."

"Thanks, mum. Oh, did I tell you about Christian's latest fiasco?"

Nick and Sarah kept talking for another hour, but there was a part of Nick's brain that seemed to just be on a constant loop of "I love Charlie I love Charlie I love Charlie."

Unbeknownst to Nick, Darcy, who knew exactly when his weekly call with his mum was, had an idea.

Charlie looked at his phone. Why on earth was Darcy calling instead of texting?

"Hello?"

"Hey Charmander, I have a scheme for you."

"I'm listening…"

"So I know Nick told you about his retirement plan, and Immy told me about your new job sitch. I want to have you come up to Leeds for the announcement. I know he's ready for it but he's still going to be all worked up about and he's already worked up about not seeing you in like, three whole days, I can't imagine how bad he will be in two more weeks so will you please come up and be there for the press conference as a surprise for him?"

"Did you even breathe during all of that?"

"No," said Darcy.

"I could just come up and have it not be a surprise?"

"Where's your sense of romance? Drama? Theater?"

"Oh, she left a long time ago," said Charlie.

"Please? Nick always does these grand gestures for others and never lets anyone do anything for him except apparently you and I'm also pretty sure you both have things you're dying to tell each other in person and I don't know how much more coniferous Nicholas I can take!"

"Seriously, do you train to be able to do these sentences?"

"Yes. But will you?"

"Will I come see Nick sooner? If my new job allows, yes."

"Great! I'll get your train tickets! Remember, don't tell Nick. Let him think you're still coming for the bye week."

"I can do that," assured Charlie. "I hate that Leeds is so far away from London."

"You know, you don't have to be so far away from Leeds," said Darcy.

"Isn't too soon to bring up moving for him?" moped Charlie.

"Chargrill, I'm a lesbian. Frankly, I think you're behind the curve."

Charlie laughed a little. "Ok, fine. I'll plan on being there and making it a surprise for him."

"Thanks so much Chardonnay! Talk to you soon!"

"Bye, Darcy."

Well, good to know Charlie's agent and editor were co conspirators when it came to Nick. Really, it was sweet how much everyone in his life wanted him to be happy, and seemed to be sure that Charlie was part of the happiness.

The next two weeks were a rollercoaster for Charlie. He got the formal offer for the remote editor position on a Thursday, and Nick sent him a giant bouquet of flowers and a smaller gift basket of stationary. Charlie sent back pictures of Rupert playing with the ribbons. They texted every day and video called most nights. Somehow they talked about everything except the two forbidden subjects: the word love, and moving in together. Oh, they spoke of the hypothetical distant future, where they were married. The small wedding they would have and how ridiculous their friends would be at the reception. They even talked about how Rupert would feel about a puppy.

Saturday morning came, Nick sent his usual prematch morning text, Charlie replying with good luck wishes and a sleepy selfie. What Nick didn't know is that Charlie was now standing at the train station, carrying his weekend bag, nervously checking the schedule.

As he boarded the train, raindrops began to fall. Checking his weather app, Charlie groaned as he realized it was raining all the way north and he had forgotten to bring his umbrella. A voice came over the tannoy. "Due to an ongoing incident, this train is expected to be delayed by approximately 30 minutes."

Charlie sighed. That was still manageable. He could still see Nick before the press conference, let him know he was there. He pulled out his phone to text Darcy.

[Charlie] the British rail system continues to provide the finest possible service and I'm currently running about 30 minutes late 5 minutes after leaving the station

[Darcy] thanks, Charcuterie! He doesn't suspect anything

[Charlie] it's really hard not telling him!

[Darcy] I believe in you Charcoal!

Charlie took out a sketchbook and did line drawings of the other passengers to pass the time. It was hard to tell from the train, but it seemed like the rain was getting worse the farther north he got. After a few stations, the tannoy came on again. "Due to ongoing weather related issues, this train is expected to be approximately 90 minutes late." Charlie groaned out loud. He was definitely going to miss the press conference now.

[Charlie] in the finest tradition of British rail, I'm now 90 minutes late and counting

[Darcy] 👍

Ugh. She must be with Nick. He texted Tori.

[Charlie] how's the weather in Leeds right now?

[Tori] British

[Charlie] gee, that's so helpful

[Tori] I was unaware the Leeds weather had any impact on your plans today

[Charlie] I might be coming up to surprise Nick

[Charlie] but train delays

[Charlie] and I didn't pack an umbrella

[Tori] well that was stupid

[Charlie] I know…. the whole thing might be stupid

[Tori] unlikely. Nick seems like the grand romantic overture type

[Tori] it's disgusting how well you go together, really

[Charlie] thanks, I love you too

By the time Charlie's train actually arrived, he had been on the train for nearly seven hours and was exhausted. Darcy hadn't even seen his last message yet. Based on the time, he assumed that they were done at the sports center. He couldn't just text Nick and ask if he's gone out to the pub with his teammates. So he did the only thing he could think of, and gave the driver Nick's address.

Pulling up in front of the cozy house, Charlie stood at the door and hesitated. This was crazy, right? He didn't notice that he was getting absolutely soaked as he hovered with his finger over the doorbell. Before he could press it, the door opened.

"Hi?!"

"Hi."

"You're here?! How? Why?" Nick started.

"I love you," interrupted Charlie. "And it's ok if you aren't ready to say it back or whatever but I really needed to tell you and I should have told you I was coming and"

Nick interrupted Charlie with a kiss.

"I love you too." Nick held Charlie's face for a moment, staring. "Come in, we must both be soaked." Grabbing Charlie's hand, Nick ushered them both inside.

Closing the door, Nick crushed Charlie in a fierce hug. "Why are we like this?"

"I don't know," laughed Charlie.

"Let's get you out of those cold, wet clothes. Come on, I'll show you upstairs." Charlie followed Nick up the stairs and smiled. He may not live here yet, but he was finally home.

Chapter Text

Five weeks later, the movers had packed the last of Charlie's tiny flat into the van. Nick, Charlie and Rupert were in Nick's Mini, Rupert singing the tragic song of his people until Charlie held him in his lap instead of leaving him in the carrier. The drive north was largely uneventful, which made it remarkable in Charlie's experiences in moving. Going to uni had been accompanied by dramatics from his mother, and he had experienced many of the joys of flat sharing over the years. Moving into his last flat, the lift had been broken, and in fact, stayed broken for the rest of his tenancy.

Pulling up to the house, Nick squeezed Charlie's hand. "Are you ready, love?"

"As ready as I'll ever be."

In the kitchen, Sarah Nelson was waiting, having arrived early to help direct the movers while Nick and Charlie took their time on the drive. "Hello, loves! Charlie! It's so nice to finally meet you!"

"Hi, Miss Nelson," waved Charlie shyly, holding a carrier full of indignant Rupert.

"Please, call me Sarah! I'll let you get the cat settled and then do you want a cup of tea?"

"Thanks, mum, that would be lovely," said Nick.

They took Rupert into the room that was going to become Charlie's office and closed the door. Charlie sat on the floor and opened the carrier. "He might not come out right away. A lot of times it can take cats a while to explore a new space and make it their home." Contrary as always, the black and white cat sauntered out, found a sun beam, and plopped down to clean himself.

"I guess he's making himself at home already," laughed Nick.

"He's not the only one," smiled Charlie. "Now, let's go introduce me to your mother."

Sarah had three mugs of tea lined up, along with the milk and sugar. "Sorry, Charlie, I didn't know how you take your tea. Nick has told me a lot about you, but forgot the important things," she said with a gentle chuckle.

"He's had a few other things on his mind," said Charlie.

"I don't know, mostly I hear about Charlie this and Charlie that and did you see the latest painting Charlie posted?"

"Oi! Quit talking about me like I'm not here," objected Nick.

"Do you hear anything?" asked Charlie.

"Hmm, must just be the kettle," said Sarah.

"This was obviously a mistake," grumbled Nick as Sarah and Charlie burst into laughter.

"Oh, I like this one," said Sarah. "I'm glad you're keeping him."

They kept talking until dinner, Charlie getting Sarah to tell him some of Nick's embarrassing childhood stories, and Sarah learning more about Charlie's difficult teenage years. As the light in the kitchen dimmed, Sarah paused. "Look at the time! I should head back to the hotel and give you two some space to start unpacking and enjoy being home together. Brunch in the morning?"

"Of course, mum," said Nick. "Let me get your coat." Nick showed his mum to the door, kissing her cheek. Closing the door behind her, he turned to Charlie.

"Welcome home, darling." Nick opened his arms for a hug. Nestled against Nick's chest, Charlie whispered "Our home."