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user name: nick
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Kyle...he doesn't really know what happened, I don't think. If you talk about it, I don't care, but uh- I don't want him to watch it.

( there's a whole moment where nick seriously considers staying, maybe even talking. he leans into the hand on his shoulder and thinks about having spaghetti for dinner, and letting the two of them be as concerned and protective as they want to be, and maybe the next day won't look quite so awful after all of that.

it's not going to happen, but it's a nice thought. )

I'll try.

( even as he says it he feels guilty — he knows he's not coming back tonight, what's the point in lying about it? but he doesn't want to get talked out of it and he certainly doesn't want to explain himself, so he just shrugs and hauls himself up off the bed.

...still. )

Someone's gonna know where I am. Just- you know, so people don't worry.

[angrycowboy]

[ Michael squeezes his shoulder, and then stands up with him.

He thinks about leaving it at that, because he knows. Everyone has their own way of dealing with trauma. There is no tried and tested method for it. Everyone has to find the things that help them to survive, and that's all there is to it.

But not everyone makes good choices. And Nick, well, he's already proven he has a good taste for the bad. ]

Nick. I've been there, I've been the guy who runs away. Sometimes that's all you can do.

But don't. Don't be like me. You're wanted, and you're not alone. You'll get through this. And if you need to talk, any time, you have my number. I'm not gonna judge and I'm not gonna freak out on you. Okay?

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( nick feels seen in a way doesn't feel great at all, not right now. he's not running away– except he is, quite literally, and it's uncomfortable to have that called out so plainly. even wrapped up in an incredibly thoughtful sentiment.

he hovers for a moment, not doing anything at all, then very quickly turns and wraps an arm around michael's shoulders pulling him into a tight hug. and just as quickly as it happens it's over, nick pulling away before it can last too long. )

Thanks. Like, really. It's just...I appreciate it, that's all.

[angrycowboy]

[ Michael hugs him back, just as tightly, but doesn't resist when Nick pulls away. ]

It's okay.

Just check in. Don't make me have to come looking for you.

[ He ruffs a quick hand through Nick's hair. ]