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Page 1760 (Patreon)

Published:
2025-02-28 14:07:22
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2026-06
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Instant regret, part 2!

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Comments

Oberlin

Never clicked so fast

Lexie 💤

Oh no Charlie’s teary face and wiping his eyes is gonna hurt me 😭 Alice your art continues to be so incredible and I am devouring this storyline. Thank you for blessing us!

Meli ✨

😭😭😭😭😭

Shin__

Babe, Nick… TALK

Fieke Houkes

Oh no 😢 This is so not good!

Basia Duch

Nicki 😱😱😢😢😢

ashley ✨

charlie crying oh my baby :(

Elisa Maria Vlad

Oh, Nick, please talk to him, like him talk to you 😭

emanu

oh no..............

Carina

Oh Nick, you really need to properly communicate with Charlie ☹️

4ledl4st

stoppp 😥 omg. nicholas nelson if you let that boy go out the door like that istg

Maddy

The silence is LOUDDDDDD

Ruth Kelley

poor babies 🥺😭 i’ve never clicked so fast

Katy

Clicked so fast just to be hurt again😭💔

tess ^_^

not relevant i just need to know if those pancakes are BURNING in the next room?????????

Darren🍂

IM TOO HUNGOVER TO DEAL WITH THESE EMOTIONS😭😭😭

Aristine

alice the way you draw tears, my heart hurts 😭

Larisa

Nicholas, clock is ticking, shit is not being got together 😒

Eileen

😭

Chris

Either Charlie is really fast to dress or Nick is really slow to react

Charlie

I hope he turned the hob off. The last thing we need is a kitchen fire. 🙈

Merel

I think some distance might be good right now. Like obviously I want them to talk but neither of them are in the right state of mind for a productive conversation.

Jason Roselli

I really can’t believe nick just waited downstairs while Charlie got changed

Sarah Jacobs

Nicholas! I'm very disappointed in you 😭 Charlie is crying 😭😭😭😭 I'm crying 😭😭😭😭 we're all crying 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭

Maddy

Im going to do everything in my power to forget Charlie's face in the second panel. I'm absolutely HEARTBROKEN.

Steph

Just when I thought my heart couldn’t break anymore! 😭😭

Fey 🍂

Charlie crying 😭😭😭 I can't

Luke

Seeing Charlie cry is heartbreaking 💔

Barb

Nick's thoughts are thinking😢...

aniatka

Nicolas, don't let him go.... ♥️🫂

Shirley Hatton

😭😭😭 NICOLAS NELSON!! APOLOGISE TO YOUR BOYFRIEND! I have never clicked so quick on a notification in my life!

Maddy

Hey Nick, it's called thinking before you speak. Gotta work on that babe.

Andruwu

Wow, the way their faces aren't in the last two panels is heartbreaking. 💔🫂

laura

i understand both sides but… charlie babes give him the cold shoulder, he deserves it 🙃

J

Oh sweethearts.. going is a good idea, I think the distance is gonna help you both get talking heads on. I love how Nick just doesn't follow Charlie... also the shoe parallel I feel is coming. I just feel bad for everyone

Katie H

Charlie's upset face and him wiping away his tears breaks me heart 💔😢, and I love the zig zagged line with Nick in the 1st panel when the realisation hits of what he's just said

Andruwu
>>166225375

It's Charlie coming back down the stairs after grabbing his things, pretty sure

Zoe S.

😭😭😭

Martine Scarabea

Omg Nick's face on the third picture, he looks so tired. I can read tension in his shoulders. Absolutely amazing drawing.

Brian Chittum

Ok. Charlie's sad face hit me straight in the heart. You have got to make this right, Nick!

JoJo 🫶🏻🔐🎨

Oh poor Charlie he looks heartbroken 💔 Nick you have some serious making up to do and please seek professional counselling think it might be time for you healing journey to start 🫶🏻

Brittney

Aww.. 🤧🤧 I know it's hard Nick but Charlie does have a strong point

Katha

Humans being humans ❤️

alix_kate

well Nick, how exactly *did* you mean it??

Maja

i just want to squish charlie and him a hug 🥺

Chloe ♡

can i hug charlie through the screen 💔

Jess

💔❤️✨️

Jess

Les retrouvailles ne seront que plus belles 😅

NotSoYoung

Charlie 😭😭😭💔💔💔

MLN

NICK DON’T YOU DARE PULLING OUT THE CONFUSED PIKACHU FACE. It is only on you.

Merel

The image of Nick and Charlie's shoes is such an iconic part of Heartstopper. In the last panel, we now only see their legs, indicating the disconnect between them at the moment. Charlie is holding up one of his Converse though, which signifies to me that he is still willing to connect and talk (or converse, if you will 😉)

Jasollie

Oh Charlie’s face. 😭 So did Nick start following Charlie upstairs, but then didn’t go all the way up, just waited for him to come back down? Charlie just ignored him and now we are going to see if Nick is going to say anything else before Charlie leaves? 😭

Justin S.

Charlie's sad little face.... ugh Nick, and the panel with putting on the shoes...

Gabrielle ✨️

💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔💔

btripi

nick’s realizing that him just saying he’s fine doesn’t actually make everything fine💔

Juliana Barhorst

Nick honehhhh!! Please you owe him an explanation now after saying all that. Also the way I was in class and excused myself to look at this comic cause I knew I would tear up 😂

Kristyn

Nick looks like he is in a state of panic 😢

Katie H

a stab to the heart would hurt less than seeing this page 😢

ACxo

Nick realizing he messed up 🥺

ACxo

The way you draw the borders really show the panic and their emotions

Ai Bui

nick is shooketh by his own audacity. good.

Jade

the patreon gc is going through it

Jmejimz

Ok so I take back what I said a few days ago about wanting to see them argue 😭 not Charlie crying I don’t like it

Katya Morris

So I’m thinking to trying not to read for a few days cos these tenterhooks are not good for me. These are my boys.

J
>>166225582

We often get like Charlie hugging Nick when he leaves and he goes on his tippy toes and we focus on the shoes or we focus on their shoes in like meaningful scenes. Parallel might me the wrong word but I've got a feeling we may get a focus on the shoes in the next update even if it's just quick

Laura

It’s very easy to forget that they’re 16/18 and we’re all idiots at that age!

Maddy

I just keep reminding myself that Nick is hurting. I'M TRYING SOOOO HARD TO GIVE THE BENEFIT OF THE DOUBT (My hair is falling out from stress).

Maddy

Damn. We all RAN here.

Noemiette

I dont see any words of apology there, Nicholas 😐

Tina

oh charles got dressed QUICK

Lorna O’Neill

Oh God this page has broken my heart 💔 literally sitting here crying 😭 but I think it's the right thing for Charlie to go home and get some space from the situation right now 💔 hopefully Nick will realise how not fine he is after the terrible rugby match and come to terms with the fact that he needs to talk!

Ai Bui

you meant it like WHAT then nicholas?? 🤨🤨🤨 shush and grovel darling

Jodie KH

Get it together Nelson 😂

Alison
>>166226145

I feel that 😂 When I'd open up last few chapters and see Nick cooking himself, I'd immediately yell "Nooooo!" at my phone

Wildallie Diaz

Oh my, the joy I feel that your caption doesn’t say no page tomorrow

Maddy

I know you're probably freaking out rn, Nicky, but I'm really going to need you to at least drive him home or something. I don't want Charlie walking home when he's all emotional.

Tina

the blue over charlie's eyes from the watermark makes this even more heartbreaking bc it looks like the tears more prominent

Steph
>>166225352

It’s definitely both. I can’t believe Nick didn’t follow him upstairs!

emily

oh :(

Beth L-A

😩😭💔

Evan Wexler

Charlie crying just fucks me so well

Elena

It's this starring of disbelief in Nicks eyes in the third panel, when he just stands there without moving, knowing Charlie is about to go home, because of what he just said and there is nothing he can do about it. 💔😢

Miah🎀

Stop fighting right now! daddies

Samantha
>>166225814

I'm not sure if he knows. I think that's why he doesn't try harder to stop Charlie. He truly flabbergasted himself and now he's stuck watching Charlie leave.

HLMac88

Poor Charlie 😢

alexis rae

This hurts to see him cry!

Megan wiseman

throwing a brick at my head would hurt less

gaby

i know it's for the best that this is all happening now but oh my god i am in physical pain

Noemiette
>>166226567

You can feel sorry for Nick and everything that he is going through mentaly AND not be ok with his behavior ;)

gaby

also i will never get over how well alice draws the expression of sadness on these characters' faces, it's so good and it hurts so bad

Lolli98

F..., I wanted to edit my comment and deleted it. 🙄 Yes, now I see it's Charlie. I was too excited and didn't notice he was going upstairs before.

Brandon Ford

With the look on Charlie’s face, I don’t think “sorry” is gonna cut it… do you realize how frosty it is in that house right now that this boy went upstairs, changed, came downstairs and is putting his shoes on… while Nick watches in dumb silence? Nick may need to go Say Anything boom box outside his window to fix this… you actually broke Charlie this time.

Tyne Swedish

Awww Charlie’s little face

Brandy78

Oh my! Charlie’s face 🥺🥺 And how exactly DID you mean it, Nicholas?!?!

Jessica Richards

I know Nick LOOKS like he's just standing there, not reacting....But my guess is that his mind is working overtime during all this. Like, "analysis paralysis" because he's trying to figure out his next move. At this point, he might be terrified of making things worse...

Samantha
>>166225352

I assumed he just put his pants(trousers?) on. The bit of his shirt that we see when he comes down the stairs is the same color as the one in the kitchen. (Also based on the size I think it might be Nick's shirt)

Susa Nodewald

This is like watching a car crash in slow motion and waiting for it to be over so you can assess the damage 🥺

Nyssa Rawther 🍉

That look on Charlie's face and the tears...heartbreaking. I can't. I need him to get some Olly cuddles to cure him and myself of all this trauma

emma hupp

don’t cry don’t cry don’t cry

Raeee✨

As hurt as I am to see Charlie hurt, Nick needed to wake up. He’s heard Charlie’s words of concern, and now he’s hurt Charlie to the point of tears and an immediate exit. It should (I hope) trigger in him that he doesn’t want to respond like his dad or David to someone he loves so deeply. And that should wake him up. I think it’s too late in the moment, and Charlie will leave, and he’s gonna play like crap at the match, but I think it’s gonna ruminate and he’ll finally come around. We all said there’d be a breaking point before he’d realize…well…I think we’re upon it.

Brandon Ford

I love everyone in the chat calling him “Nicholas” like we’re his mom yelling at him lol

Maddy

I think that "Gotta Go My Own Way" from HSM 2 is a pretty valid song for me to blast right now.

Glenn

Looking at his legs, I hope Charlie doesn't start hurting himself again.

Chris
>>166225352

yes I think also it’s Nick’s shirt but still it’s heartbreaking to see Nick so unable to move or talk (even if I think right now he couldn’t say the right thing anyway)

Theaterboi27

The time has arrived dear Nick. We know you are hung over and maybe this time is not ideal with the match coming up, but that was a real buffoon thing to say and now the person that means the most to you in this world is sobbing. Dig deep young man and at least admit you need to talk about your issues. Maybe not this exact time but promise Charlie you need to, you can, and you will confide in him. Do not let him leave feeling lost and hopeless. This is a wild page for sure. The faces in frame two with Nick looking almost angry and a bit crazed and poor Charlie so sad and depleted. We can feel the weight of the moment. Uuuugh.

Dionne Lakey

The parallel of Charlie having to leave home so he doesn't have "to deal with all that" and go to Nick's for comfort (in this Winter), to now Charlie leaving Nick's so he doesn't have to deal with him right now and go home. Relationships be like that, that's why we need more help than one person can give. Family, friends, therapists, boyfriends and dogs. Other places and people we can go to for support. It's a shame Sarah took away Nick and Charlie's support animal in a moment when they both needed Nellie.

ucfnurse

Yup been there done that….😯🫢💞💓🫂✨🤞🌹👑✌️🕊️☮️

JRob
>>166227298

It's so cold, Sarah will need to keep her coat on.

Maddy
>>166227938

"You know I never wanted to hurt you" "And what about me?" "What am I supposed to do?"

Caitlin

Got dressed in the blink of an eye good lord

Calfic
>>166227473

Yes! I’m actually fine with him not trying to to get Charlie to stay or something. He needs to think on what Charlie said without Charlie there I think. Also either Sarah when she gets home ( How long does a dog walk in December in England take?!) or Coach Singh if he decides to just get ready for the match might have thoughts.

Jessica Richards
>>166225530

Where would they be, though, if Nick had given Charlie the cold shoulder anytime Charlie lashed out during his mental health crisis last year? It's okay for Charlie to take a step back here, but Nick deserves the same unconditional love he showed Charlie at his lowest.

Maddy
>>166228460

I think he just threw his jeans on and grabbed his bag. Still quick with it though.

Dionne Lakey
>>166228103

Hopefully he'll do this via text wants he's come out of his feeling of shock at the situation.

Bob Scardino

Young and stubborn meet young and stubborn.

Melanie

Nick seems to be frozen - emotionally and physically. Painful to watch him just stand there while Charlie gathers his things to leave. 💔

Maddy

Imagine me crying in the corner of the art room blasting Black Friday by Tom Odell rn

Koko

They need space. Otherwise there is only more damage

San

I hope this whole situation makes Nick think about everything and be honest with himself, watching how he hurt the person he loves can make him wake up, that's what happened to me and i finally looked for help.. Nick i trust you, you can.

Elena
>>166226999

And I'm imagining him having a tinnitus in his ears, because of the stress and angst that's evolving in him, like in movies, when a bomb explodes, and the only thing you can hear anymore is this high tone of *zzziiiinnnnngggg*. 🫥

kfm

Ok I don’t think I can handle more Charlie tears after this 😥 Nick’s distant stare too though… oof. But let’s be real, who here HASN’T said something to a loved one in the heat of the moment only to immediately feel like complete shit? I do nooot envy the position Nick has put himself in

Mareike

I'm really relieved that Charlie leaves right now.

Dionne Lakey
>>166228460

He's always been quick at dressing to avoid showing his body in the locker room at school. It's a character trait

Jessica Richards

Imma need y'all to remember that Nick is an 18 yr old who absolutely loves Charlie SO MUCH that he neglected his own mental health for MONTHS while supporting his boyfriend. And now he is dealing with his own mental health crisis, and he has NO IDEA why he is reacting the way he is. Between the books and the show, there are many indicators that illustrate that there is a LOT going on below the surface with Nick, and right now, he's probably either spiraling out, or he's about to. Yes, it's hard to see Charlie cry, and he has every right to feel upset and take some time apart. But Nick deserves to be shown the same relentless love that he gave Charlie when Charlie was going through his mental health crisis.

Caro

well, now he is definitely back on tori’s book, and i’m not saying this like a good thing lol

Kai Blakeman

I REALLY HOPE Charlie walks out that door and doesnt get persuaded to stay. He's so strong I know he can do it

Blair
>>166225381

I think he either froze or didn't want to encroach on his space when he already fucked up and charlie's obviously emotional

Blair

nick i love you but you are commiting the mortal sin of being a Man

Carly Louise

Alice you are too good at drawing facial expressions 😭😭😭 just look at Charlie omg 💔

Jordan

I love how this flips the tables and puts Nick in the “can you please talk to me” position (if he can move past his shock)…can’t wait to see what happens next ❤️

TT
>>166226758

The walk could actually help him regulate himself.

Jasollie
>>166226743

Yes Alice posts 7 days a week but random days off (prob avg 1-2 days off per week). She lets us know when she’s skipping a day (almost always gives advance notice, rarely she gives notice day of when there won’t be a page).

Milagros Barraza

It broke my heart everytime I see Charlie comforting himself. My baby.

Nikki

This feels totally crap right now but I do think this will be good for them long term. Nick’s gonna feel awful today and have a rubbish match but hopefully it’ll lead to a good next step… 🤞

Molly Goat

Nick, my buddy, you effed up.

Nils

Oh dear another heartbreaker panel. It's not as if we have been warned. Once it's finished it will be an easy read as just a few pages of agony and then happieness again but watching the work in progress is torture. It is an amazing piece of work. Thank you Alice. And Nick, well, you are dumb, how could you. Yep you feel very bad and sorry for yourself but I can't find it in me to feel very sorry for you. I hope that either you figure it out yourself or someone is setting your head straight. You have scraped shortly by of weaponizing Charlies illness against him.

Miles White

I really hope Charlie DOES go home to see tori and his parents, and isn’t convinced to stay in this one instance, Nick is a lovely boyfriend but that wasn’t on. He needs to think about what he’s doing and the consequences of it, just like Charlie had to in the previous book.

Coca

Panel 3 - Nick’s face, that broke me. I relate to this “I screwed up big time” face.

CinD

Ouch 💔 Charlie’s mind: justifiably upset and needs some space 😭 Nick’s mind: I messed up sooo bad, how can I fix this before he leaves me for good 😦

Cliff

I was afraid that David was coming down the stairs for a second. Nick, please snap out of it and have that emotional breakdown you’ve been holding back for months! It will freak out Charlie for a moment, but he wants you to lean on him! I can’t say that I agree with the people here who think Charlie should just leave, although it’s really up to Nick to make things right. Nick , make things right, please!

laura
>>166225530

??? pls i never said he didn’t did you even read my comment? 💀 i said i understand both sides (nick is my fav character ffs). i just think that right now charlie is deeply hurt because what nick said is very fucked up so he deserves some time. even nick seems to agree because he didn’t follow charlie to his room respected his space… they will sort it out eventually and im sure charlie will give nick all the love and support he deserves but RIGHT NOW nick messed up badly and charlie has every right to leave

flynn tasker

oh god nick this would have all been avoided if you just bloody talked about your feelings!!

Ashley Robinson

I think we are in for a rough couple days. That game is going to be 😬

val

:((

Mara

Charlie :((( They need a long talk 😞😞

Jessica Richards
>>166231607

I hope you *can* find a way to empathize. He's not being dumb. He's being an 18 year old in a mental health crisis. His reaction was born out of his own childhood trauma, and while that doesn't excuse it, it could at least afford him a bit of grace....

Cole Morin

NICHOLAS 🤬 Don’t you dare let Charlie leave like that

Gregory Toner

I think Nick will let Charlie leave, not because he wants him to leave or that he doesn’t want to explain I think emotionally he is frozen and he can’t get it out … leaving a really rough Rugby 🏉 game to look forward too 🫣

Ele79

😔

Liz

Good job Charlie. Stand your ground. Your hurt. You need space. Heartbroken seeing his sad little face going up the stairs.

Melissa

oh Charlie 😟😟 I am hoping that they will have that much needed conversation soon, when Nick is ready to open up and be vulnerable with Charlie, but I do think some personal space will be good for the both of them 😢🩷

JRob
>>166229941

My sincere hope for the next page is Nick apologizes, Charlie acknowledges it cooly (something like "sure, I know") & leaves to keep himself safe emotionally & let Nick sit with himself.

SuzyLd
>>166229941

Nick won’t even admit he’s having a mental health crisis, I think that’s the issue!!

Calfic
>>166231607

Yes! Charlie doesn’t owe him grace right now but we read Dear Diary and read the panels of his dad being abusive. He needs to think but also to talk to an adult and get therapy , hopefully! This isn’t to excuse him but he needs help too, just not from Charlie for now because Charlie needs to take care of his own mental health. I am positive that once Nick shows any signs of growth and actually opens up to Charlie and truly apologies that Charlie will be there. He just needs space.

Katrina

I’m heartbroken 💔 I hope they will talk soon

JRob
>>166233362

Yes, I think Charlie will leave because he's angry & knows that's the best thing for both of them to cool off. Nick will let him go because he feels like he doesn't deserve Charlie. He might try to apologize, but it will be half-hearted because he's convinced Charlie is leaving because he hates him.

The Sarah E

seeing charlie cry is giving me protective auntie energy… but then i remember nick is a good guy who loves charlie very much and im kind of devastated for both of them

Button

Oh my poor Charlie 😔 😢. I hate to see any of them cry. Just last night I was reading chapter 5 when Nick goes on holiday and talks to his mom about Charlie's ED. He can definitely express his thoughts and feelings and open up to his mom. Now if could do the same with Charlie. I know back then Nick needed to be strong one to help Charlie but now, the roles have flipped. Hate to see them going through this but very necessary for their continuing maturity, not that they are already mature for their age but still. Hang in there loves!!!

Julie NP

This is hard . I see both sides. Not to excuse Nick but Charlie was quite rude to Nick sometimes when all Nick tried to do was help Charlie. Nick spent his whole holiday worrying about Charlie . I also see Charlie’s pov. Charlie did open up to Nick and be vulnerable with him. Nick is not letting Charlie in . Maybe the space will do them both good. Nick needs to work out why he’s so upset and then open up to Charlie . Poor babies 😢

JRob

It hurts so much to see Charlie leaving like this, and while part of me wants it to be done in a mature "we're heated & I'm going to head out before we say anything else we're going to regret" way, he's 16 & doesn't have that level of self-awareness. I don't think him leaving will be intended as a breakup, but I think Mick will interpret it that way. Then you'll have the N&C novella "standoff" as they stubbornly wait for the other to reach out.

Steph
>>166236697

Nick just feels like he can’t let anyone see his weaknesses because of how his dad treated him when he was young telling him he didn’t want to be around him if he was going to cry. Nick needs to realize that he is allowed to let Charlie see him be vulnerable, Charlie will always be there and never judge him. He doesn’t need to be the strong one all the time.

gunclevanya

Charlie, go home, and text Geoff to see if he has time for a Zoom call today. Nick, you need to respect Charlie’s need for a little space, and realize that you can’t fix this in the moment. Also, you can’t miss the match, because if you don’t show up, they will assume it’s because of how drunk you got last night. And you need to focus on the match while it’s happening, or there could be some real consequences, namely injury. Welcome to a really tough day… …and is the smoke alarm about to go off in the kitchen?

Robert

These two really need to get a grip.

Nils
>>166231607

Sorry I find it hard to excuse Nicks behaviour. Yes Nick has issues of his own, serious issues, but what he did to Charlie here could have a serious negative effect on Charlie. The one person Charlie absolutely trusts has hurled his mental issues in his face during a fight.

JRob
>>166236697

And I think opening up to Sarah was a bit easier because it was ABOUT Charlie, not himself, so he still had a shield of sorts.

Calfic
>>166237063

I mean Charlie could have learned that technique in therapy. I think it will be less than a week .

Jomaries Amezaga

Poor babies 😢. It’s so sad to see Charlie like this and seeing Nick so closed.

RCM

That first panel, fuck me, Alice...isn't this the perfect summary of where Nick is?? Those silent radio frequency waves are so representative of the buried mass of conflicting emotions and feelings that have been poking and prodding to be let out, but Nick CANNOT ( and will not) articulate, cannot process, cannot make sense of...BUT THEY ARE STILL THERE, affecting him way more than he knows. I love the way you drew them going in one side of Nick's head and coming out the other, unchanged, untranslated (and no signs of recognizing that he may need help translating them into words!)...it makes us feel the whirring, the constant mixing, the unsettling incongruence of the competing emotions in Nick's head that just keep playing over and over, rent free, creating anxiety, uncertainty and stress, because he can't let them out, he can't risk the conflict, he can't risk facing his fears...but he can't control them or keep them buried anymore. The waves are so loud here they are canceling each other out and all he can hear is STATIC, and his face, his sweet little broken face here, only sees what he just said, just did, just hurt, Char...the ONE thing he wanted to never do is to have Charlie leave...FUCK is right, Nick...god, Charlie's devastated...His tears are pouring out now, his arm is holding his stomach (where his heart has dropped to) and himself together-ish, and if you look, Nick, he's gripping your shirt, an extension of you, that smells like you too; he is holding on to the only part of you that is accessible right now. And, what really hits me here is that Nick's face looks so young, so much like little Nick, and he is panicked and trying to make things right, and the words he says are quick and sound like a little boy trying to sound big, to say the right thing to make his dad, I mean you, Charlie, stay---I see the parallel to the flashback with his dad, (who, I'm thinking, only cared to see those certain parts of Nick that he wanted to see, so quick words like "wait, didn't mean to" worked for him). BUT THIS IS CHARLIE who wholeheartedly and unconditionally loves Nick, and those words fall like the hollow, empty shell they are. Of course, you didn't mean that Nick! Charlie knows you love him and respect him and are so proud of him...but, WHAT DID YOU MEAN? What are you NOT saying? That silence, only filled in with your words you did say (that loaded "therapy speak") is what Charlie is carrying up the steps right now, and Nick seems to sense this as he just...stops. He stops at the base of the stairs, looking like he doesn't even know who he is anymore...he stares at the wall, maybe seeing that pic of young Nick with Sarah and David, but not really processing it. He's stuck, that radio static is all around him...and he only moves when he hears Charlie coming down the steps. I LOVE how Charlie, our brave, strong, trying to break down Nick's walls, willing to listen, to nurture, to be there as Nick finds and shares the scars HE has on the inside, on his heart, the Charlie who Nick just projected onto and now carries real hurt and sadness... how Charlie STILL faces him to put on his shoes..."You lashed out and hurt me, Nick, but I'm still here. I still see you and still love you, you are worth me facing you now as always, and I ache for whatever is going on with you. But, Nick, I love me too, and I know for my own mental health, I need some space. So i'm going home now." I noted we only see Charlie's Converse here, and no view of Vans for Nick...another little reminder of how Charlie has done the work ( so much work!) to become grounded in himself...and Nick is stuck, without shoes, without words, without his external source for grounding... (another meaningful, intricately drawn, emotionally captivating page...thank you, Alice)

mai

“I love that we have tomorrow” and tomorrow contains the most devastating scene

Ane Kristine Kure
>>166237063

It won’t be a week I think, as Alice said peak angst was the rugby match which is today (holding on to hope 🤪)

Maddy
>>166228460

You did not just have to make me emotional by pointing that out.

Jessica Thomas

This honestly hurts my heart but I’m also going to be so proud of Charlie if he does leave. He has to walk away from a situation like this. Nick needs some self reflection time, he’s not capable of talking to Charlie about this right now so if Charlie stays it’s just going to end poorly for them.

Brandy78
>>166240316

RCM! Every single time, I dont know how you do it, but thank you!!!!

Kela87

I really think Charlie leaving now is the best thing for both pf them. I hope he does.

mal

I think nick has abandonment issues from his dad ;(

Elsie 3

What exactly did you mean, my dear Nick?

Sam

Am I the only one who currently love the angst right now, but is deeply frustrated by some of the comments? Seems for some like grace and empathy is a one-way street and Nick shouldn't be allowed to be a mess because it hurts Charlie, actually ( yeah, not how it works for a mentally struggling teenager, sorry)

tofuPudding
>>166242709

I think no...being abandoned or left behind again without confronting the problem will just hurt..it .will just be rewounding old scars....I feel like Nick needs to take the leap apologize and confess his fears embrace this accept that his worries and feelings are valid but it is not constructive when you don't communicate them.

boombroadcast
>>166236765

My heart aches for both boys, and Nick of course deserves (and I am certain will receive) grace. But it kind of bothers me seeing some comments point to Nick’s support of Charlie at the height of his mental illness, almost implying Charlie might now “owe” Nick more than what he’s giving here. (Not saying that’s what you specifically are suggesting here!) We also saw Nick step out to take care of himself and lean on other people during Charlie’s mental health crisis last year (as he should have). When they had their big argument the January after Charlie came home from the hospital, where both were lashing out, Nick was out of the house the second Charlie told him to leave. (Which again, was totally understandable.) Last night Charlie stayed with Nick and took care of him after he became possessive/aggro at the pub, he comforted him and reassured him that he wasn’t angry, and still stuck around after Nick told him to go away and yelled at him that he didn’t need his help. It’s been a very rough night/morning for them both, and I think it’s fair for Charlie to need a breather after his attempts to get through to Nick were once again rebuffed, this time with Nick throwing Charlie’s illness/therapy experiences back in his face in a way that was clearly very hurtful to him. And while Nick obviously feels completely awful and never meant to hurt Charlie, he also has not apologized, and doesn’t seem to be in the right place for a constructive conversation… yet. (And from my perspective, this relationship has never been one-sided, *neither* of them has ever been the “perfect” boyfriend, and Charlie, too, has at times put his own feelings and mental health second to protect Nick when his needs felt most urgent.)

Calfic
>>166244684

You are NOT the only one! Charlie doesn’t need to give him grace right now. He needs to protect himself! But for those of us who know more of the story and all, we , as readers, can.

Kennedi Robinson

Aaahhhhh I’m screaming Nicky please say something tell him what’s been happening with you

GirlHero

charlie should leave, i would. i don’t see a good conversation happening if he stays. i don’t know what nick meant, but what came out was super harsh, yikes! 🥺 nick needs some time to really think about what is going on with himself, to figure out a best path forward, imo? maybe then he can be accountable for himself, his actions, and any help he may need ❤️‍🩹 hard work.

hayley

nick just break down.

Kristine Bo Ditlev Jansen
>>166244684

Exactly - and they are only teenagers and in their first real relationship. They don’t have a long life of experience - they have to make mistakes to grow. Sometimes I feel in the comments that people have to high expectations and can be to negative - but we know that it’ll be a happy ending - very happy ending❤️

Jennifer Paddock

Alice, you are SO GOOD at breaking our hearts! 💔 This is the very best kind of angst: (1) we know they're end game so there's a little comfort for us; (2) Charlie is right - Nick really needs to open up and exorcise some of his demons; (3) Charlie is right to distance himself from Nick right now if he's only going to lash out; and (4) we can all (well, most of us) understand why Nick is behaving like this (even though he doesn't, poor guy) and his insta-regret and inner turmoil are so clear on the page it physically hurts to look at it. WONDERFUL!! 👏 👏 👏

hayley

of course y'all think nick is horrible when charlie used to do the same things nick did of course!

Maddy
>>166226758

Same here but I just hate the idea of him just walking alone in public while being so emotional. I hope he at least bumps into Sarah so she can drive him or something.

SuzyLd

I can understand people being upset at there being a negative view on Nick right now, but honestly I think that’s the whole point! ‘Nick’s the perfect boyfriend’, Nick’s a golden retriever’, Nick’s Charlie’s knight in shining armour’, ‘Nick’s the rugby king’, ‘Nick’s the perfect son, ‘Nick’s everyone’s friend’… Nick’s put that pressure on himself, people in Nick’s life have put that pressure on him and so have we as the reader. The only person who hasn’t (surprise, surprise) is Charlie. Well guess what, Nick’s a big ol’ mess just like the rest of us, and thank god for that!! He’s human, he makes mistakes, he will grow and learn, his relationship with Charlie will be all the sweeter for it.

shelfie69
>>166228833

Can I come too? Reading the pages in work isn't working for me this week

Noemiette
>>166248988

First of all, no Charlie snapping at people isnt the same as what Nick just said. That was a personal dig. Second, you gotta make your peace with the fact that with their own life experiences, morals, personality, people are gonna react differently to events than you do. Getting mad about it isnt gonna change anything ^^

Sam
>>166244684

And for the record, my frustration with lack of grace is not with Charlie at all, who's behaving in a totally normal and mature way! It just make it obvious to me that the idea that Nick must be the perfect boyfriend is not just in his head, it's ingrained in other people's too...

Lindsey Hyde

Does anyone else feel just a little annoyed with Charlie? Nick didn’t withdraw from him when Charlie wouldn’t talk about his eating disorder, he waited and let Charlie come to him. But now Charlie isn’t giving Nick the same patience. Obviously they’re kids and Charlie is feeling like Nick doesn’t trust him so it’s hurting but I just want him to give Nick support and time like Nick did for him.

Jessica Richards
>>166244684

Same, I'm trying not to fight everyone in these comments, lol. Like Nick ABSOLUTELY deserves the same love and grace he showed Charlie last year. And honestly, these comments are reeeeeallllly highlighting why this arc is necessary. Those kinds of reactions are the same kinds of things Nick already believes about himself... And yet (some of) y'all are wondering why he can't/won't open up. 🤷🏼‍♀️

shelfie69
>>166232371

Maybe Charlie needs to leave for Nick to realise he needs to open up to Charlie if he wants to stay in this relationship

SuzyLd
>>166250439

I don’t think I’m annoyed only because Charlie did talk about his eating thing, and the bullying and self harm and the Ben stuff so at least Nick had something to work with. Charlie has nothing right now, other than Nick seemingly pushing him away so it must be frustrating to know you want to help but you don’t know what it is you’re meant to be helping with.

Jessica Richards
>>166231607

I mean, I guess agree to disagree, because I think that's a very harsh reading of what just happened. Tori has made a similar comment when Charlie tried to get her to open up, too. Like, I guess I don't think this ONE line should cancel out everything else Nick has done to encourage Charlie to get the help he needs and supporting him every step of the way. If it did, then Charlie really is fragile.

Laura
>>166242709

While this sounds lovely, I have my doubts since Alice already mentioned the tough rugby game to follow.

Lindsey Hyde
>>166250439

Yes, that’s true. I think I get the novel and tv mixed up in my head sometimes. Although Nick has already told Charlie that he’s worried about being away from him and that’s he’s not confident when he’s not around, so he’s not completely in the dark.

louise
>>166248988

No one thinks Nick is being horrible. I see it more as people being a little disappointed with what he said and think Charlie leaving is for the best.

Noemiette
>>166250439

Nope, not one bit. Because Charlie, even if he brushed off the severity of his eating disorder, he still talked to Nick about how he felt. Nick is shutting Charlie totally out. Charlie has nothing to hold on onto, to try and figure out what is wrong with Nick. But even that isnt the reason Charlie is leaving. It is the personal dig that made Charlie leave. He can have all the patience in the world, but a hurtful dig at a sensitive topic ? Charlie is right to remove himself from the situation

boombroadcast
>>166250439

Charlie has shown Nick patience and support, though. He’s been gently pressing him to open up for a couple months now, and Nick has remained completely closed off. Charlie stuck around, remaining patient and gentle, when Nick got drunk and possessive/aggro at the pub, and when Nick yelled at him to that he didn’t need him around last night. He was still going to stick around after Nick rebuffed him again with “There’s nothing to worry about!” this morning. Charlie’s stepping away now not because he doesn’t think Nick deserves time to process his feelings (he does!), or because he thinks Nick doesn’t trust him (though obviously that’s something that’s bothering him), but because Nick just said something cruel, and Charlie’s clearly feeling really hurt by it.

artxsta

in my opinion, neither of them are right, just like neither of them are wrong. if i were charlie, i too, would leave, bc considering how hard charlie had worked over the last year to properly express himself and his emotions, nick reducing that to “therapy speak” in order to deflect (bc i know he didn’t actually think that, which is why he closed his eyes when he said it) would’ve upset me too. but also, nick isn’t completely in the wrong either. charlie’s frustration right now seems to be born out of insecurity, and nick knows that his own inability to come to terms with what’s going on w him is NOT about charlie. and also, it took a few tries for nick to have a breakthrough w charlie the year prior, and some of these comments make me feel as though the same grace is not being offered w nick, bc ppl really do still believe he has to be perfect all the time and get things right all the time. also, im not frustrated w charlie. i understand him. this is confusing and nick has never really opened up about how the things in his life had affected him, bc i can imagine that over the last year, charlie’s physical manifestations of his struggles were taking the front seat, and now that nick has to reconcile w his identity outside of charlie, its bringing up stuff. at the end of the day, they’re just teenagers. charlie doesn’t understand that some of nicks trauma deals w being unable to open up abt things bc he thinks ppl will leave, and this info would be helpful for him at the moment. there’s so much more they have to learn about each other and that’s ok

Loveislove

I'm all confused - it's alot. I feel Charlie has been his trademark gentle self with Nick and has given him time and space to talk to him. Do I wish he had been more specific and a little more insistent with Nick before this? Yes - because we are talking months of signals and clues. I particularly feel there was no check in with Nick after Charlie's stay at the clinic to process that experience as a couple. And yet Charlie is a young man with a lot going on in his life. What to say of Nick? I don't approve the negative place he has found himself in and his lashing out at Charlie. But what a negative place it must be for him to be lashing out like this. I feel sad for Nick that he has been in this seemingly isolated situation for months and we are not seeing his mother, the rugby lads, the Paris squad, his father, brother, his aunt noticing his struggles. Charlie and maybe Coach Singh - that's it. It's like he has been replaced with a pod person who says everything's fine. I hope Nick will try to reach out to Charlie before he leaves but pod person Nick may lash out again. I hope he does not get injured at the rugby match or hurt someone else.

SuzyLd
>>166250439

He did, I think that’s what gave Charlie the initial hint to Nick not being OK but Nick just seems to be on complete shutdown now. Hopefully it’s uphill from here!

Lindsey Hyde
>>166250439

Oh I absolutely agree that he needs to leave now after what Nick said. I just feel like Charlie is pushing more than Nick did with him. I suppose I basically just don’t want them to fight, it’s making me anxious! :)

shelfie69
>>166240316

Well the tears I've been holding in all week are here but thank you once again

Loveislove

Charlie may leave but throw Nick a life line and tell him to come see him when he is ready to talk.

Joni
>>166250439

Charlie just tried to support Nick with very kind concern and got slapped back with the therapy speak comment. It’s not like Charlie is doing nothing. He deserves space of his own if he feels attacked and pushed away, but in no way does it mean he’s giving up on Nick. Sometimes it helps to cool off and calm down before trying again. I actually feel bad for Charlie because he is trying so hard to be there for Nick the way Nick was for him and getting nowhere because Nick repeatedly denies a problem and shuts him out. Don’t get me wrong, I feel terrible for Nick, too, but in this case they need space to process what to do next. Charlie can be hurt by Nick’s comment, it’s a fair response.

Gracie

I think Charlie will leave so Nick will get the point?

GirlHero
>>166250439

no, i don’t feel angry at either of them. i feel sad & concerned, i suppose. imo, we can say things badly when we are hurt, scared, frustrated, and anxious. nick is behaving so out of character. whatever it is, it is affecting his relationships, sleep, things he enjoys, (rugby, going out), maybe even school stuff. that would be *plenty* for him to ask for help, from charlie and/or others, even if he can’t say exactly what is wrong. i get you, maybe the way charlie expressed his concern sounded a bit anxious, and mixed with his own fears about nick not perceiving him as strong enough or capable of supporting him. but, again, maybe things don’t always come out the way we would like when we are having strong feelings? i know n+c love each other deeply. they would never hurt each other on purpose, but i do believe they would own up to it if they did, intentionally or not. i love watching their story unfold. keep going, alice, i am so sat!!

Bryn

we are just too capable of hurting the people we love most 😢

boombroadcast
>>166250439

Hm, I think Nick was (rightfully!) fairly persistent with Charlie… and also the very first time he asked Charlie about his disordered eating, Charlie was pretty honest about it. Of course he tried to minimize the problem in subsequent conversations and deflect Nick’s worry, but I think with that knowledge, and after speaking with Sarah/Diane, Nick was in a better position to address Charlie about it. I think rn Charlie may be feeling extra distressed because Nick has been so tight-lipped what’s going on with him the past few months, and I also think he might be a little more confident (than Nick was early on) that whatever the issue is, it *should* be addressed, given his own experiences. It isn’t nice to see them in conflict, but I think they will come out of this stronger than ever!

Olav Gehle

Sorry Nick, but you need to get your self together! You can’t let it out to Charlie! He loves you so much, so please don’t hurt him!

Sara

nick why r u standing there BOY

Jordan

They both could use some journaling ❤️‍🩹

aubrey

not vibing with all the negativity towards nick in the comments right now. he said something hurtful toward charlie, yes, but i genuinely think when he said it, he didn’t mean it in the way charlie took it. i do agree with charlie leaving though but not to punish nick, but to look after himself. before this whole fight, charlie was already feeling anxious, grabbing at his arm, rejecting food. nick’s words dug at him but nick isn’t a bad person. you can’t blame nick for lashing out and hate him when charlie did the same thing at his lowest. the difference between nick and charlie is nick stayed and took the brunt of charlie’s worst words because he’s a people pleaser, he wants to do whatever he can to try and help people and make them happy, it we have seen him have his breaking point which lead to a relapse from charlie which in turn, would scare nick ensuring he’s never the one to leave during an argument again. charlie, on the other hand, isn’t used to the way nick is behaving. he’s trying his best and using the tools he’s been given to try and help nick, but at the same time, he has the understanding that nick doesn’t. he can’t help someone who doesn’t want it. charlie can’t force nick to talk and he knows this. all he can do is encourage him and try to get him to open up. leaving for him, is his final attempt to get nick to talk to him by doing the exact thing nick is scared of doing now. i genuinely might be reading too much into this but yeah, that’s my justification of nick and charlie

lia
>>166248988

No one here said that Nick is horrible not even once.

Ana Alicia Aranda De Contreras

I'm crying. It hurts me to see Charlie cry and even more so because it was because of the words Nick said to him🥲🥺😭

David C Witkin

Everyone take a breath. These are TEENAGERS. They still have a LOT to learn about communication, no matter how mature and intelligent they are. We're putting A LOT of weight on their shoulders, forgetting that they still have SO MUCH to learn, and that hurts, and pain, and failure are the best teachers sometimes. Nick and Charlie are learning painful lessons about how, when, and why to talk to each other, and how to cherish and protect each other, and how to support each other. They are both different people, and they both respond to emotional crises in different ways. It's hard enough learning how to manage your emotions in an adult way: learning how another person does it, especially when you're a teenager, is excruciating. Take a breath, everyone. Alice is going to get us there, but it's going to take a minute. Watch and learn.

lia

i feel like i am so deeply interested and thankful for how Alice writes mental health storylines on heartstopper because it’s always so real, yet mostly really optimistic - but i fear i might be liking this angsty spotlight a lot. yes, it hurts really bad to read it because i feel very connected to the characters at this point, but it’s always good to learn more about how they react to their own actions differently, to analyze the characters’ feelings etc. Alice also always does a great job with visual storytelling and it shows. once again, i’m very grateful for how this story is being told. thank you alice we say in unison!

Jay

I’m not the best with angst even though it’s needed they go through this for the better in the future ♥️ in how many chapters ish, would it be “safe” to be back in case I wanted to read the whole angst in one go instead?

noelle!!

charlie ))):

Ai Bui
>>166248988

love, I agree that some people take their frustration with Nick too far, but I hope you can sit and realize that there’s a fundamental difference between garden-variety snapping to express anger and rifle-aimed snapping with an intent to hit where it hurts most. Defense vs. offense. Charlie went for the defense in the past: I’m fine, just leave it, just fuck off. Nick went for the offense — literally offending Charlie’s mental health journey. And that’s a dick move, but it doesn’t make him a dick. It makes him a teenager needing to learn to not inflict hurt just because he’s hurting.

Dani

Kinda love Charlie standing on business

Ayden Singleton

This is great story telling Alice keep going! Don’t be discouraged by the comments. ❤️

Megan
>>166253288

I think he’s going to get hurt at the rugby match 💔 because he won’t be able to stop thinking about what happened with Charlie 🥺😭 and it’s going to completely overwhelm him. 💔 I’d kind of like to see Sai, Otis and Christian come through for Nick even if it’s only a small amount, as his friends. They said they’d be there for him back in Vol 4 but we really haven’t seen much of them lately other than in passing. If this match goes horribly wrong (which I strongly suspect it’s going to — Alice warned us it’s going to be rough 😭— I hope they can at least gently say to him after the match “what’s going on, mate? Something’s been up with you for a while. You know you can talk to us.” Nick might not fully open up to them but I feel like if he realises that more people around him have noticed his change in behaviour it might make him finally see that he needs drop the “I’m fine” facade and be honest about how he’s feeling.

Megan
>>166252501

Brilliantly said! Best comment I’ve read on here so far! ❤️

Loveislove
>>166253288

I hope so. It is painful because he does try to be there for others and it is hard to see the withdrawing.

Beam Bugge
>>166240316

ooh, interesting comparison between Charlie and Stephane! I think you're right that his relationship with his dad was more surface level, and that he's not used to dealing with someone who truly cares about his feelings (well aside from his mum but it doesn't seem like they've ever had a serious fight)

Loveislove

Am I the only one who feels a little let down by Sarah? I am sure we are about to get a big dose of her and it will be beneficial. But it seems Nick has been carrying a lot of issues regarding his family unit for years. As must all of them. It would have been so helpful if some family therapy had been used after the divorce. Divorce is a loss and healing is a good thing. I am sure Sarah coped the best she could but that is why sometimes you need to ask for help. She is a doctor, right? So she would have been aware of the benefits of counseling. I don't know if David was always a bully or if it stemmed from the divorce. Maybe we will find out.

Beam Bugge
>>166237967

i mean it would probably be good for the rugby lads to realize that pressuring nick to drink that much alcohol has consequences

Brynn Rabinowitz

Honestly, I feel bad for both of them. They are both suffering for different reasons. We all say things we don't mean in the heat of the moment (Nick). We all get hurt by people (Charlie). We all have insecurities (both of them). We know they end up together in the end, so this is just typical growing pains.

Jasollie
>>166269911

Yeah I think we have a ton of missing information but overall I agree. She may be loving in a ton of ways but also may have been less involved in other ways with Nick bc he was so easygoing compared to David perhaps.

Mike Maxwell

Wow, this is how we go into the weekend? Nick made Charlie cry and heading for home. Time for couples counseling i guess. That whole friends group needs to go to a Rage Room and get their pent up frustrations worked out so they can get into better mindsets for talk

Glenn
>>166269911

Sarah is missing in action. Between their parents, no wonder both Nick and David have issues.

Laura

cannot wait for what happens next !

Ami

The fact that this whole comment section is so invested in Nick and Charlie speaks volumes about how good the story telling is ❤️❤️

Loveislove
>>166269911

Maybe even her easygoing ways of having Charlie sleep over is a form of missing in action. I know Jane and Julio now let Nick sleepover too - but was it originally informed, progressive parenting by Sarah or non confrontational? I'm not sure. I had my doubts about her parenting when I saw the argument between Nick and David in front of Charlie about Nick being bisexual. She focused on swearing and seemed uncomfortable with the yelling - not the homophobia, disrespect to Charlie, bierasure and bullying of her son. It was a little different in the comic and she has had strong moments with Nick, for sure. But when I think of the years that Nick has spent building this mind prison - 😭.

tara😽

charlie’s face☹️☹️

Beam Bugge
>>166269911

sarah is in many ways a good parent but she has a big neutrality problem! in this chapter too she told nick to accept david because "he's family", ignoring how much david has put nick through

Beam Bugge

on one hand I want Charlie to stay so that they can actually talk things out but on another hand they both might need a breather rn

Loveislove
>>166269911

We are none of us perfect but that damn mini comic of 12 year old Nick and his childhood flashbacks keep feeding into Nick's current problems. I anxiously await Sarah's return from walking the dogs and stepping in to help her son and give him some perspective.

boombroadcast
>>166269911

I agree that, lovely as Sarah is, she has seemed a bit too passive in her parenting of Nick. The way she handles David is not great - I think she should be doing more to protect her teenage son from his bullying, adult brother. I also questioned her leaving Charlie to take care of drunk Nick alone. Yeah, Nick is legally an adult now (though Charlie is not), and I know British parents are more chill about alcohol, but did she really not hear Nick yelling, “I don’t need your help!!” through the door, or at least feel compelled to check that he was really okay, at least physically? idk. I think that she’s absolutely wonderful when Nick proactively comes to her for support, but she doesn’t always seem totally on it. (Kinda feels like Jane needs more of Sarah’s chill, nonjudgmental energy, and Sarah needs a bit more of Jane’s vigilance.)

Loveislove
>>166269911

Good point about the moms exchanging some characteristics - nice to see you @boombroadcast ☺️

lia
>>166231607

oh wow. many straight to the point discussions in here! while i agree that what nick just said, even if he didn't mean it, could've really hurt charlie because he's directly talking poorly about charlie's mental health journey in some way (again, even if he didn't intend to) i don't really think that it would've made him feel so bad until reaching the point of a relapse again, because, from my pov, charlie's just trying to be the person who's reaching out for nick, the one who sees that something is wrong and when he asks nick what's going on he just shuts the door on his face (metaphorically and literally, as we've seen lol) and i think charlie's furstration and almost panic on this argument scene, specifically, is coming from a place of worries that charlie is dealing with towards nick, who's wanting to protect charlie (and himself) from something he doesn't really want to be protected from, as charlie's the one reaching out for nick at the moment. I think it would be a bit out of character if Charlie had a relapse at this point of the story because one of the reasons why Charlie's stressed about right now is worrying a lot about Nick when Nick doesn't really want to talk about anything. (which, honestly, would cause me panicking a bit too!) and I can't help but think that saying charlie would be ''really fragile'' if he eventually relapsed after this is something we should worry about saying, because Charlie is clearly not fragile. I think it's also fair to say that obviously they both know that what's happening right now is kind of an explosion of both of their feelings and they need to talk when they're both a bit less stressed; so charlie's going home because he aknowledges that they're on a difficult moment and people tend to be shitty at moments like that, so he'll definitely consider that. But yes, they're both really hurt at the moment and something should be done when they're on a better place mentally.

Cliff

So why does Nick want to study psychology if that’s how he feels? Is he going to study that at uni just to help Charlie?

aubrey
>>166281773

i think it’s mostly because he wasn’t to help people but can’t figure out how to help himself. i think he cares too much about other people and doesn’t care what happens to him as long as everyone else around him is happy

Sarah Duzynski

I can't wait to find out how Nick and Charlie resolve this conflict. I feel bad for Charlie because he is upset, but this might be what Nick needs to happen to finally open up to Charlie and tell him what is bothering him.

hayley
>>166253288

eh i don't think he's gonna get hurt, more along the lines of his mind is somewhere else he doesn't play good and they lose the game and it makes nick feel even more like a failure

Astrid H.
>>166240316

The first panel, with that radio frequency as you call it, also reminds me of what we sometimes see in war films : a huge explosion and the focus on a soldier, who hears nothing around him but this dull noise. But here, the huge explosion comes from Nick. He's dropped a bomb when he said those words to Charlie. And hearing what he told him as a huge effect on him, as it has on Charlie, but in totaly different ways 💔

boombroadcast
>>166281773

I’m not sure if this is the case in the UK, but in my experience psychology is one of the go-to undergrad degrees for students who don’t know what they actually want to study or do after school yet… which is where Nick is at this point, I think.

Calfic
>>166281773

My brother is American, but he decided to go to uni in England, and he didn't know what he wanted to study, so he applied for psychology. It's interesting to hear people in the UK do that, too. Here, you can be undeclared when you enter university.

Murgy

As painful as it is, Charlie is doing the right thing here. His face when going up the stairs is heart breaking, and Nick knows he's F'ed up, like seriously. Mick's thousand yard stare is all the evidence needed for that, and the state of his internal panic. Its powerful not seeing Charlie's face when he comes back down and puts his shoes on, especially with it mirroring so many goodbyes where things have been happier and there being a hug or a kiss before they part ways. Whereas this time, its likely going to be a curt bye at best.

Murgy
>>166304031

Also, when I saw the preview before expanding it fully, I though Nick was reacting with anger to Charlie leaving, but it is panic. Nick is scared he's just brought about part of what he fears is happening, Charlie leaving him.

Neenie
>>166275097

I agree -- this is the point in a real-life conversation where I would say that we needed to take a breather from it.

tofuPudding
>>166242709

I think so too....like many of the things in real life....sometimes we fail to make good decisions....thats why I only thought that was the best action instead of leaving...but yeah I feel Nick is about to inflict pain both to him and Charlie and in that process hurt himself even more by knowing he hurt Charlie....(treating Charlie like glass is never a good thing but that just shows how deeply he cares and loves...he couldnt help it) but I guess that is just how we learn...mistakes.....and is the reason I am prepared for more angst T_T...

Neenie
>>166247430

Yes, exactly this! Constructive communication doesn't happen when emotionally triggered.

Neenie
>>166247052

And I wouldn't marry me either A pathological people pleaser Who only wanted you to see her And I'm fadin', thinkin' "Do something, babe, say something" (Say something) "Lose something, babe, risk something" (You're losin' me) "Choose something, babe, I got nothing" (I got nothing) "To believe, unless you're choosin' me"

Neenie

It's giving flashbacks to Charlie leaving after the "I love you" and Nick racing after him... but should Nick? I don't know?

Lusi

Nicky, we know you didn't mean it like that. And deep inside Charlie may know this, too. But the wound is too fresh and deep and now he has to go. It's nothing against YOU but he has to do it for HIMSELF. Selfcare is important. He may also do it FOR you. Seeing him crying and hurt like this is unbearable. For us as well as for you. 😭💔 I just want to give them a hug. Charlies tears are heartbreaking! The pain is real!!!!

Lolli98

My heart is aching for both of them... Can't wait for the uphill ride to start soon! It will be amazing to read the whole book in one go, when it's finished, and remember how hurtful every little page was and how we all went crazy about it!😁 And it will make sooo much sense all together.✌ And then filming of season 4 will start and we will be sooo happy...*getting lost in daydreams*🙂

Andrea

Nick needs to hug Charlie and admit he doesn't know what is wrong. Then go do some research so he can figure it out. Like he usually does.

Jessica Richards
>>166281773

Also, I don't think that IS how he actually feels. I think it's just another way for him to say "I'm fine, I don't need anything I don't need help."

gunclevanya
>>166237967

I don’t know how much pressuring was going on past the first couple of rounds. Later on, Sai and Christian were reminding him about the match tomorrow. After seeing Tao & Elle fighting, and the encounter with those mouthy strangers, I think Nick was trying to drown his anxieties all on his own.

toneelspeler

i actually find it pretty interesting how the worst fear in nick's head is the fact that he will be responsible for when people leave him (which made him become a people pleaser to make them NOT leave) and now that is actually the case with someone he loves very dearly - and now he's got to confront what that means, what it means to make mistakes and be sorry for them, and how relationships can change due to them but need not end because of them. it's not a nice thing to go through but a tough lesson he does need to learn. it will only make him and his relationship with charlie happier in the end!

Clemence

On the second panel, is Nick’s facial expression anger?

Elena
>>166335193

From far away, I also thought he is angry, but if you zoom in, you can see it more clearly and there I also see panic rising in himself.

Elfi
>>166335193

My first thought was also that he's angry, but when you zoom in it looks more like panic and desperation and maybe he's also a bit angry, but at himself.

Jessica Richards
>>166231607

@lia Just to clarify, I didn't mean that if Charlie has a relapse then he's fragile. I meant if Charlie broke up with Nick over that one comment (vs everything else they're already been through together), that would indicate (to me) that he is fragile.

Jessica Richards
>>166229941

I mean, of course Nick isn't admitting he's in crisis: he doesn't think his problems are a big deal compared to what other people (ie, Charlie) have been through. He is afraid to address any of it, and just keeps trying to convince himself and others that he's fine. I'm not sure he's even able to admit to himself that he is in crisis. Right now he just feels like he keeps fucking things up and he doesn't know why. But I think he's on the brink, now (at least, I hope) of recognizing it, which is still just the first step.

Claire

Nick really delivered a body blow here - no wonder it is instant regret.

Shanie_MC
>>166269911

Sarah is incredibly caring and supportive, but she also let David bully Nick for years and did nothing about it. I think because Nick was easy (aka people pleaser), he's flown under the radar. If my son's boyfriend went through a horrible ordeal like Charlie did, knowing my son felt like he alone was responsible for fixing it ("love can't cure a mental illness" convo), I would have had my kid in therapy, right alongside Charlie. I adore Sarah, but she has her faults, mainly being too passive.

Loveislove
>>166269911

I struggle with Sarah - Nick is such a special person who has dealt with a lot in his few years. She is loving yes but the divorce, the bullying, the coming out, Charlie's situation - all just needed more follow-up and support.

Marina

POOR CHARLIEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE