HI! So I heard the song "No Shame" by Jeff Bates last night and listened to it over and over and over 'cuz I absolutely love it. Then today, this little fic popped into my head during math class and I had to type it out or it was gonna drive me crazy! Hope you enjoy.
Warnings: I guess this would be classified as a missing scene for GD, so references to that. Also, THERE IS SLASH IN THIS FIC. Just telling you ahead of time.
I Feel No Shame
Nick's mind drifted in and out a lucidity in the hours following his arrival at the hospital. His parents stayed with him the entire time. Once he was fully alert, they noticed his hopeful glances at the door each time the squeak of shoes on linoleum passed by his room. They assured him his friends would be coming later. If Nick didn't care so much, he would have told them he wasn't waiting for all his friends, he was waiting for a certain friend.
Hours later, Catherine led the group of CSI's into the room. Nick smiled widely at his friends, trying to articulate just how grateful he was to them. With Warrick going first, one by one, they all came up to the bedside. Taking his hand or carefully hugging him they all tried to express how happy they were to find him, each fighting tears and guilt.
An odd feeling began to build up in Nick's chest as he neared the last person; the only person he had wanted to see since he had woken up in that small hell under the ground. Greg's voice was shaking as he clasped Nick's hand, mindful of the ant bites. "Hey."
"Hey." One word. One word, but it conveyed millions of feelings.
Nick found himself not caring that his parents were in the room. Not caring that his friends and coworkers were watching intently. Not caring about the consequences. Slightly caring that the first time he said those three words wasn't going to be someplace romantic. He had escaped death several times yesterday and he would be damned if he had to keep his feelings a secret after that.
Ignoring the pain, he pulled Greg into a tight embrace, planting a sloppy kiss on the corner of Greg's mouth before resting his cheek against the younger man's cheek. I love you. Not certain he had said it aloud, Nick repeated the sentiment, Greg whispering it back almost immediately. Tears born of fear, relief and joy mingled together on their faces, making the next kiss wet and salty.
For the first time, Nick didn't care about keeping his deepest secret a secret. He would deal with the outcome later. Right now, he was just a normal person seeking comfort in his lover's arms. He felt no shame.
In a crowded room, I wanna hold your hand
Wanna kiss your lips, like a desperate man
When I hear your voice, calling my name
I'll come runnin' to you as fast as I can
No shame
No holding back baby
Insane
'Cause you make me so crazy
No way
I can look cool baby
No shame
- Jeff Bates, "No Shame"