A/N: this is based on Season 3 episode 4, So if you haven't watched the season yet and don't want any spoilers I'd suggest skipping this chapter for now!

Nick took a deep shaky breath as he made his way through the crowded Halloween party, desperate to find a quiet place to sit down.

His mind was spiraling, his heart was racing and he felt like he could cry at any second. It was as if time had come to a stop, and all he could hear was his thoughts thumping loudly in his head like a heartbeat.

Once he spotted an empty hallway, Nick plopped down against the wall, trying to remember how to breathe properly.

What was happening to him?

He's never felt like this before. The young teenager felt so...dissociated.

"Mind if I join you?"

The sound of Tao's sudden voice startled Nick out of his thoughts.

"Yeah go on.." Nick motioned for Tao to sit beside him. As Tao made his way over, Nick scooted aside making some room for him to sit.

Nick had to glance away from Tao,
not being able to make eye contact as tears welled up in his eyes.

Tao seemed to notice Nick's distress and immediately pulled him into a tight embrace, knowing he needed it.

Nick was surprised at the sudden hug but instantly melted into his friend's arms. Before he could comprehend what was going on, he felt himself just begin to sob.

As if he was releasing every negative emotion he had been feeling the past month.

Tao sat in silence as he held Nick close to his chest, rubbing his back in a comforting manner.

How did he not realize Nick was feeling this way? He was usually the outgoing, "mom" friend of the group...

Tao felt guilt wash over him, knowing that nobody had thought to check in on Nick and how he felt while all this was going on with Charlie.

Of course, Nick would feel weighed down by all of this.

Nick was so...

Empathetic.

As Tao comforted Nick, he made a mental note to himself to check in on him every so often.

Not just Charlie...