**Chapter 6: Nathan's Worries**

As they sat on the couch in James' living room, Nathan let out a deep sigh and rubbed his temples. "Dude, I've been having a tough week," he said, his voice laced with frustration. James looked up from his phone, concern etched on his face. "What's going on?" he asked, setting his phone aside. Nathan leaned back into the couch, his eyes drifting towards the ceiling. "I don't know, man. School's been stressing me out, and I'm just feeling really overwhelmed. I feel like I'm stuck, you know?" James nodded, his expression softening. "Yeah, I get it. You're just feeling a little lost, that's all." Nathan turned his head, his eyes locking onto James'. "You're always so calm and collected, James. I don't know how you do it." James shrugged, trying to play it off. "I just deal with stuff as it comes, I guess." But Nathan wasn't buying it. He knew James well enough to see the faint lines of tension around his eyes, the subtle tightening of his jaw. "No, James, you're not just dealing with it," Nathan said, his voice gentle. "You're handling it, and you're always there for me. You're my rock, man." James felt a pang in his chest, a warmth spreading through his body. He looked away, trying to hide his emotions, but Nathan's words had struck a chord. No one had ever called him their rock before, and it made him feel seen and appreciated in a way he couldn't quite explain. As they sat there in comfortable silence, Nathan started to open up more, sharing his fears and worries with James. James listened intently, offering words of encouragement and support. For the first time in a long while, James felt like he was exactly where he was meant to be – by Nathan's side, listening to his troubles and offering a shoulder to cry on. As the evening drew to a close, Nathan stood up, stretching his arms over his head. "Thanks, James. You're the best friend a guy could ask for." James smiled, trying to play it cool, but inside, he was reeling. He had never felt this way about anyone before, and it was both exhilarating and terrifying. As he watched Nathan walk out the door, James couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude towards his best friend. He was grateful for the trust Nathan had placed in him, for the bond they shared, and for the opportunity to be there for him. As he closed the door behind Nathan, James felt a sense of longing wash over him. He didn't know how much longer he could keep his feelings locked away, but for now, he was content to simply be near Nathan, to listen to his worries and fears, and to offer a shoulder to cry on. Little did he know, their friendship was about to be put to the test in ways he never could have imagined.