Chapter Text
People doubted the longevity of Nick and Charie’s relationship. In the words of Jane Spring “a relationship that burns so hard so early has no business lasting to adulthood.” But they only became closer when Charlie joined Nick in the world of university. Although they didn’t go to the same university, Charlie made sure to visit Nick every weekend. When Nick graduated and started to look for Rugby couch jobs in primary schools, he made sure it was near Charlie. To both of their surprise it was Charlie who suggested moving in together.
Once Nick was settled in his job and Charlie got a part time job in the local book shop, it was Nick’s turn to make a move. Whenever there was money left over after food and bills, Nick put the extra money in an account named “my future with Charlie”. On Charlie’s 21st birthday they invited all their school friends for a boozy get together. Tara and Darcy brought the alcohol, Isaac brought the snacks and Tao brought the films. Imogen had helped Nick to find a ring.
‘Charles, Nicholas! It’s been too long!’ Darcy cheered as soon as the door opened. 'We saw you last week.' Charlie dead pans as Tara gives Nick a hug. ‘Oh, you are no fun. Happy birthday Charlie. Welcome to the old peeps club.’ Darcy chuckles as she hugs Charlie. ‘Thanks guys.’ Charlie awkwardly hums until Darcy lets go. ‘You are the first ones here; I know I don’t need to tell you but make yourselves at home.’ Nick chuckles as he closed the door behind them. Darcy runs ahead towards the living room while the others walk calmly behind her.
‘So, apart from this get together, what are your birthday plans?’ Tara asks wrapping an arm around Nick and Charlie’s shoulders. ‘Tori and Oliver are takin the train up to spend next weekend together. Oli wants Nick to teach him how to play rugby, but mum said no.’ Charlie said as they take their usual seats on the sofa, on their partner’s laps. ‘But of course, I can’t say no to Charlie’s little brother. They have the same puppy dog face.’ Nick chuckles, wrapping his arms around Charlie’s middle. ‘I can’t argue with that one.’ Tara chuckles. ‘So, who else is turning up to this shin dig?’ Darcy asks with a straight face as she leans agenised Tara. ‘Well, we invited the while gang. I bribed Isaac with my first edition land of untold stories.’ Charlie chuckles. ‘And I invited Imogen.’ Nick says, smiling into Charlie’s shoulder.
‘Are you ok Nick?’ Tara asks. ‘Mhum.’ Nick hums, unmoving. ‘Nicholas Nelson, we are best friends. And best friends don’t keep secrets.’ Darcy pouts, making Charlie giggle because she reminds him of Oliver. Nick stays silent and his eyes widen. ‘Please don’t tell me you have a boner right now?’ Darcy huffs. ‘Oh my god, no it’s not that!’ Nick shoots a bit too loudly. ‘You kiss your mother with that mouth?’ Darcy chuckles before kissing Tara’s cheek. ‘Don’t you dare say something about Darcy’s mum.’ Charlie was quick to say, holding Nick’s hands. ‘I won’t, can we focus on Charlie please? Please?’ Nick stuttered.
Before anyone else could say anything, the doorbell rang. ‘I’ll get it.’ Charlie huffs, wriggling out of Nick’s grasp. Once Charlie was out of earshot, Darcy slides off Tara’s lap. ‘Spill Nelson.’ Darcy says fist on her chin. ‘I’m not saying anything, Olson.’ Nick mocks, pushing Darcy back into Tara’s arms. ‘Seriously, you are even weirding me out.’ Tara huffs, pulling Darcy closer. ‘I know you two, it’s a secret that you will find out soon. It’s why I invited Imogen.’ Nick says, head falling to the back of the sofa, staring at the white celling in defeat.
‘Wait, you told Imogen and not us? I seem to recall you nearly ditched Charlie’s 16th birthday to go on a date with her, because her dog died. What the actual fuck Nick. If she knows, we have to know.’ Darcy yells, sitting up to glare at a smirking Nick. ‘Dude, Chill. I’m sure whatever it is we will find out eventually.’ Tara calmly says, physically pulling he girlfriend back into her arms. ‘Hi guys.’ Isaac waves from the door frame, multipack of crisps in hand. ‘Hi Isaac, oh I love the beef Walkers flavour.’ Nick beams as if Darcy wasn’t just interrogating him.
‘Isacc, my boy, what do you think of Nick not telling us a secret?’ Darcy sing songs, standing up to hug Isacc. ‘Depends, if it was a life-threatening secret, yeah, I would be pissed. But by the smile of Nick’s face, I would say we are all entitled to secrets.’ Isaac beams with a shrug, hanging the crips to Charlie. ‘Is this all you brought?’ Darcy asks, eyeing the 12 pack. ‘Yeah, I figured we are all adults, and we drink while we are together.’ Isaac shrugged. ‘Speaking of, we got everyone’s favourites in the car. I will go get therm.’ Tara says, holding her hand out for Darcy to hand over the car keys.
‘What’s this secret, Nick?’ Charlie asks as he brings in the bowl of crisps and hands Nick a packet of beef flavour. ‘Nicholas Nelson, you didn’t even tell your sweet and caring boyfriend this secret?’ Darcy gasps. ‘Or the secret is about him.’ Isaac deadpans, reaching for a packet of cheese and onion. ‘Oh, I’m not worried, Nick’s secrets are rarely bad.’ Charlie shrugs as he settles back on the sofa. After a long and not uncomfortable silence the front door clicks shut followed by more than one set of footsteps. ‘Look what the cat dragged in.’ Darcy announces, carrying 2 bottles of white wine and a 6 pack of beer for Nick. ‘Hey, I have not been dragged anywhere, thank you very much. And I like to think I have aged better then all of you, like fine wine. Even you, Nick “rugby arms” Nelson.’ Tao huffs, carrying in the stack of DVD’s he brought.
‘I have you know, Tao, I still play rugby, granted it’s while teaching a bunch of 8-year-olds but I could still beat you in a fight.’ Nick chuckles, standing up to help put the DVDs down. ‘As much as I love talking about my boyfriend’s arms, we are nearly all here. Let's crack open the wine.’ Charlie says once he parts from is hug with Elle. ‘Oh yeah, happy birthday mate. I’m sure Nick has plans to spoil you, but Elle says I have a best friend duty to get you something.’ Tao says, Joining Elle on the floor and handing Charlie an envelope. ‘Cheers mate.’ Charlie chuckles, mocking Tao’s use of mate and sitting back down next to Nick. ‘Are you going to wait for us all to be here?’ Tara softly asks.
‘Charlie isn’t a big fan of having to react.’ Isaac says between mouthfuls. Tao’s present is a Paperchase gift card for £20. Charlie shows everyone with a smile before putting it in his jeans pocket to go in his wallet later. ‘Who are we waiting for?’ Elle asks, resting her head on Tao’s shoulder. ‘Imogen, I invited her. She is bringing the cake, so be nice.’ Nick lightly scolds Darcy and Tao’s disgusted faces. ‘She tried to steal Nick away from you, Charlie. Is that really who you want to celebrate your birthday with?’ Tao asks. ‘She isn’t that bad and that was years ago. We are in our 20’s. school drama is in the past. Plus, Imogen and Nick are friends, no harm no foul.’ Charlie shrugs as Nick settles on his chest.
‘Who are you and what have you done with Charlie Spring?’ Elle chuckles. ‘What can I say, I grew up. I even have a friend that isn’t you guys. Their name is Skylar, and we meet in my Magical Realm class. Their dream is to be the next I.R.R Talkin. When I’m at uni and missing Nick they create a distraction so I can facetime him. They even make sure I have company during lunchtimes, and I was invited to a party.’ Charlie beams, fully content. ‘Wow Spring, sounds like you have made a lie for yourself. How does your mum feel about not being a part of it?’ Elle softly asks. ‘Tori says she’s pissed. But honestly, I’m better off without her. My mum never respected my views even when Nick moved away, and we proved how solid our relationship is. Did I ever tell you guys that Tori came out as Asexual?’ Charlie says, taking in the room full of friends. ‘No? but that’s cool that you have a queer family member.’ Elle smiles.
‘Yeah, our dad asked all the usual questions, like how Michael fits into being Asexual, but mum just walked away. I feel bad for Oli, he will be stuck with mum for a few more years.’ Charlie sighs, hand searching for Nick’s as he gets coming out flashbacks. ‘I’m sorry your mum is so crappy. At least you have us. Before Imogen gets here, what is the plan activity wise? I see Tao’s film collection hasn’t changed.’ Tara chuckles, eyeing the wonky stack of DVD’s on the floor. ‘Just because you have no taste.’ Tao scoffs. ‘Such a straight boy answer. Love you.’ Elle chuckles. ‘Well, I am the only not queer person here, until Imogen arrives.’ Tao shrugs. ‘So, my mum hand delivered a massive dish of her homemade spaghetti Bolognese for lunch, that’s just warming up. Then we can sit through one of Tao’s films.’ Nick chuckles, checking the timer on his phone.
By the time Imogen gets there, everyone is starving and already a bit tipsy. While Tara and Charlie set the table, Nick and Imogen meet in the spare room under the guise that Nick is getting a jumper and Imogen is using the toilet. ‘How are you feeling?’ Imogen asks softly as she sits on the end of the bed and rummages in her handbag. ‘What do you mean? I am happy, It’s Charlie’s birthday week and our house is full of friends.’ Nick mumbles as he raids the wardrobe for a clean jumper. 'Nick, it’s ok to be nervous. But can you come out the closet long enough to see the ring.’ Imogen chuckles, opening the dark blue velvet box.
‘I never really felt in the closet to be honest. I thought I was straight until I met Charlie. Oh no, that’s going to be in someone’s speech isn’t it. I wouldn’t put it passed Darcy or Tao to be fair. I hear he tried to convince Charlie that I was straight to protect his feelings. I understand the homophobic assumption that because I play rugby, I can’t be queer but… wow I will shut up now.;’ Nick rambled as he found a burgundy hoodie and turned to be met with the perfect ring, he had only seen pictures of. ‘You designed it, Nick. I just picked it up from the shop.’ Imogen chuckled, watching Nick drop the hoodie and his jaw.
‘I know… but if Charlie says no, I’m going to be pissed.’ Nick says solemnly, walking to Imogen’s side without taking his eyes off the ring. ‘You think he’s going to say no?’ Imogen asks as Nick snatches the ring box. ‘I don’t know. I can’t help but wonder that since I’m a year older that he isn’t ready for this step yet. I know he loves me, but marriage is scary. I still a new law and finding a queer friends officiant won’t be easy.’ Nick sighs, closing the box and holding it close to his chest. ‘You aren’t schoolboys anymore. You have both grown a lot, physically and mentally. If you ask any of the many friends’ downstairs, I’m sure they would agree that chances are Charlie has been fantasising about your life together. That boy thinks way too much before he acts. Give him the chance.’ Imogen softly smiles, putting a hand on Nick’s shoulder. ‘We should probably head back to the party before Tao thinks I’m cheating.’ Nick chuckles nervously, putting the hoodie that he dropped on and putting the ring box in the pocket. ‘Seriously…?’ Imogen huffs before standing to follow Nick back to the kitchen.
The meal goes by uneventfully, casual chatter and Isacc becoming the only even slightly sober one. While Imogen prepares the cake (take it out the box and put the number candles on top) Charlie finally confronts Nick’s tights grasp on his hand. ‘Love, it’s my birthday, no nerves allowed. So, tell me what’s wrong?’ Charlie softly asks, using his thumb to massage their joined hands. ‘I’m not nervous, don’t worry about me Char.’ Nick faintly smiles down at their joined hands as he loosens his grip. ‘Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you. Happy birthday dear Charlie! Happy birthday to you!’ Everyone sings as Imogen lights the candles and walks to the table to put the chocolate cake in front of Charlie.
Everyone applauds when Charlie blows out the candles. ‘Now presents!’ Darcy exclaims while Imogen cuts the cake and Tara helps serve the slices. ‘We were meant to bring presents?’ Isaac asks, a fork full of cake midway to his mouth. ‘No, but I’m sure Nick has something up his sleeve.’ Elle chuckles, aiming a wink at Nick. ‘Oh right, yeah. Because they are in love and stuff. Just saying I would have brought something if you asked.’ Isaac beamed before continuing to eat his cake. ‘Thank you, but getting to hang out with my mates is present enough.’ Charlie shrugs as he gets handed the biggest slice of cake. ‘Actually, I think Nick has something for you.’ Imogen says, nudging Nick’s side on the way passed as she hands Elle her slice.
Everyone pauses in their cake eating to look at Nick, the anticipation building. ‘Right, yeah…’ Nick nervously laughs before steading his breathing. ‘Charlie Francis Spring, since the day we met in form I have been in awe of you. I didn’t know what these new feelings were until I accepted my own sexuality. My mum would agree that you make my life happier. Yes, it wasn’t hard considering our school’s rugby team was mostly a bunch of pricks, myself excluded obviously. Anyway, what I mean is I’m more myself then I have even been. I am a soft and kind-hearted rugby lad and a proud bisexual because of you. I love you Charlie, so with that in mind. Will you marry me.’ Nick says, shifting in his chair to reach the ring box and was met with gasps as he opened it.
‘Wow, that is a beautiful ring.’ Charlie smiled softly. ‘Wait, was this the secret?’ Tao and Darcy exclaimed in unison. ‘Yeah, you dumb dumbs. If you knew Nick at all you would know that he would never intentionally hurt Charlie.’ Imogen chuckles as Nick and Charlie continue to stare at each other, ignoring the banter. ‘What do you say Charlie?’ Tara softly says, putting a hand on his shoulder. ‘Oh, come on Tara, they are practically eyefucking. Just wait until we have left to celebrate, ok guys?’ Darcy deadpans, removing Tara’s hand and joining Isaac in finished her slice of cake.
‘Well, obviously, yeah! It’s only ever been you, Nick!’ Charlie nervously chuckles. Nick is lost for words so lets his lips do the talking. They only break the kiss when the table erupts into applause. ‘Can I have another slice; you know to celebrate the engagement.’ Isaac asks, licking the icing off his fork. ‘Sure, how about another round of drinks while we are at it?’ Nick smiles as he puts the ring on Charlie’s finger and watches him stare at all the details. ‘I’m game.’ Elle nods, nudging Tao to stand up to help. ‘So, show the ring, what’s the story?’ Tara asks, exciting building as the realisation hits.
The room goes silent as Nick carefully holds up Charlie’s left hand. ‘I know masculine engagement rings aren’t very common, so Imogen helped me find a jeweller that caters to men. I didn’t find any ready-made ones that screamed Charlie Spring. So, I designed my own. I know Charlie’s style and he wouldn’t want any kind of precious gem. So, I started with a plain sliver band and got it engraved with leaves around the outside. There is also our initials and the day we met in the inside.’ Nick softly explained, his smile getting bigger as noticed his friend’s reactions. ‘Wow, you do know our Charlie well. Do you think you will want a matching ring?’ Elle asks, walking over to get a closer look.
‘I’m not too fussed. Everyone who matters knows I’m with Charlie.’ Nick shrugs, passing Charlie’s hand to Elle. ‘Just so you know Jonesy, I want at least one emerald on my ring.’ Darcy stage whispers. ‘Duly noted, my love.’ Tara chuckles. By the time Imogen and Tao come back with a tray full of drinks each, Charlie is still staring at the new addition to his left hand. It’s not until Tao sits back down that he realises Charlie isn’t smiling at his lap. ‘Holy crap Charlie, that’s nice!’ Tao exclaims, jumping in his seat. ‘Thanks, I designed it myself.’ Nick chuckles, realising that Charlie is still speechless.
‘Woah cool, you know you are good for him. I know it’s taken me a while to fully accept you as a permanent fixture in my best friend’s life, it’s only because I’m protective of him. I hated seeing him “happy” with Ben, but I can tell the happiness he has with you is real. You are a good man, Nick. Someone I can trust with Charlie’s heart.’ Tao softly says, tearing up. ‘Let it out. Our Charlie is getting married. The first weeding of the Paris squad. It’s a big change.’ Elle says, putting her arm around Tao as he leans in and starts fully sobbing. With the cake forgotten, the gang takes their drinks back to the sitting room to start the film watching.
Once the last of their friends have left, its already 11pm. So, Nick and Charlie head to bed. With pyjamas on and teeth brushed they climb into bed with just the bedside lamp on. ‘Have you had a good birthday? Nick asks as they shuffle into a cuddle. ‘Good? That’s putting it lightly. This has been the best birthday ever. I have a fiancé now and I got to hang out with my friends. I still can’t believe you proposed. I am the luckiest boy alive, and you are the sweetest boy alive.’ Charlie chuckles, only stopping when Nick pulls him into a kiss. ‘So, you liked my speech, it wasn’t too much?’ Nick softly asked. ‘Too much? It was just the right amount of corny. have i told you lately that i love you?' Charlie chuckles, sitting up slightly. ‘Can I tell you once again somehow.’ Nick quietly sings.
‘I think you are the only 20 something that would get that reference. It only makes me love you more.’ Charlie beams. ‘So, fiancé, shall I turn the light off or do you want me to keep serenading you?’ Nick laughs, resting his hand on Charlie’s clothed chest and trapping him in his hold. Charlie smirks as he kisses the top of Nick’s head. ‘Maybe that should be our first dance song?’ Nick musses. ‘Woah Nick, can I enjoy the engagement a bit before we start stressing about wedding planning?’ Charlie is quick to say. ‘Sorry love, I should probably tell my mum as well.’ Nick hums. ‘Wait, you didn’t tell you mum, the most supportive woman in the world?’ Charlie gasps. ‘I know, I know. I feel awful. I know she loves you like a son already, but I couldn’t bring myself to tell her in case you said no. that would have broken her heart. Now we can let the ring do the talking.’ Nick huffs.
‘Hey, no I get it. Would I be a terrible person if the only family I invite to the wedding is Tori and Oliver? I just don’t want my mum ruining our wedding. I know she would have an opinion on everything.’ Charlie huffs then pulls out his best “Jane voice”. ‘I don’t like your suit; it makes you look too skinny. Why did you order so much food, you won’t eat any of it. you are too young to understand the commitment of marriage. I never liked that Nick, always distracting you from your goals. We just want what’s best for you, Charlie.’
‘As good as an impression as that was, no I think just having your siblings there is a great idea. I only have my mum since my dad and brother are happily in Paris so I don’t have to worry about them finding out. ‘Nick laughs, void of feeling. Charlie squishes closer until the sound dies down. ‘Why are we like this? Getting engaged is a good thing and we let our crappy family members ruin it.’ Charlie sighs. ‘I don’t know, we have always been this way.’ Charlie feels nick attempts a shrug. ‘Let’s end the night on a happy note. Song please.’ Charlie hums. Nick reaches over to turn the light off and starts singing as Charlie lightly drums on the rugby arms that hold his securely.