#champno

Techno’s nightmares were typically about grasping hands that wouldn’t let go, malicious smiles, and invasive darkness. Champ had also faced many a flying elbow the first few times. So tonight, Champ put a gentle hand on Techno’s shoulder and whispered a litany of calming words in his ear. 

“You’re not with him. You’re with me, Champ. You’re safe. You’re healing. He can’t hurt you, not while I’m here. Not while any of us is here.” Champ rubbed a few small circles into Techno’s shoulder, feeling the other boy ease by degrees. “You’re safe. It’s okay. Come back.”

At last, Techno stilled, but with a deep breath, he opened his eyes and looked up at Champ. “Did I wake you?”

Champ rolled his eyes. “You know that’s not a problem.” Champ pulled Techno up and against his chest. Techno leaned in and took another deep breath. “I’m here because I want to be here.”

“I just... I just want to not... Remember... To not feel him...” Techno sniffled against Champ’s neck. “I feel like my skin is crawling after every nightmare...”

“It’s a process,” Champ said as he tightened his grasp on Techno. “You’ll work on it bit by bit. And I’m here.”

Techno frowned. “And what if we never...”

Champ looked down at Techno with a raised eyebrow. “So what? Did I say I’m dating you just for sex?”

Techno pushed away. “No!”

“So then it doesn’t matter, does it? My hand still works.”

“You-” Techno huffed, but he still settled back against Champ. “Thank you, Ai Champ, for understanding.”

“Don’t thank me. This is the way it should be.” Champ kissed the top of Techno’s head. “Now, how about some warm milk? That should help you calm down, hmm?”

As Champ moved to get out of bed, Techno tightened his grip. “I don’t need it... I just... I just need this. Can we just do this for a while longer?”

Champ’s expression softened. “Of course we can. For as long as you want, Ai No.” Champ pulled the blanket back up around them. “Just say when.”