**Chapter 1: The Sleepover**

Charlie was having the sleepover of his life with his friends, Nick, Tori, and Elle. They had spent the evening lounging in Charlie's living room, watching movies, eating junk food, and laughing together. The atmosphere was cozy and relaxed, with blankets and pillows scattered all over the floor. As the night wore on, they decided to call it a night and head to Charlie's bedroom for some well-deserved rest. The room was set up with sleeping bags and pillows, and a big sign that read "Sleepover Central" in bold letters. Charlie had set up a little photo booth area with props and silly accessories, and they had taken plenty of goofy pictures before bed. As they settled in for the night, Nick snuggled up close to Charlie, who was beaming with happiness. As the clock struck midnight, Charlie and Nick drifted off to sleep, lulled by the sound of their friends' gentle snores and the occasional creak of the old house. But Charlie's peaceful slumber was short-lived. Suddenly, he was jolted awake by a vivid and terrifying dream. "Aaaaaaa Charlie screamed," his voice piercing the darkness. Nick was instantly awake, his heart racing with concern. He rolled over and sat up, his eyes scanning the room for any signs of danger. "Baby, what's the matter?" he asked, his voice soft and soothing. Charlie shook his head, trying to clear the cobwebs. "N-nothing, nothing," he stammered, trying to brush it off. But Nick was having none of it. He gently took Charlie's face in his hands, his thumbs tracing the curves of Charlie's cheeks. "Don't lie to me, sugarplum," he said, his voice full of affection. "What's wrong?" Charlie's eyes welled up with tears, and he couldn't hold back anymore. He broke into sobs, his body shaking with fear and anxiety. Nick's expression softened, and he pulled Charlie into a tight hug. "I had a bad dream," Charlie said, his voice muffled against Nick's chest. Nick's arms wrapped tightly around him, holding him close. "Oh, you poor thing, come here," he whispered, his voice full of comfort. Without hesitation, Nick scooped Charlie up into his arms, cradling him like a baby. Charlie wrapped his legs around Nick's waist and his arms around his shoulders, holding on tight. Nick stood up, carrying Charlie with him, and walked over to the window. The moon was shining brightly outside, casting a silver glow over the room. Nick sat down on the bed with Charlie still in his arms, and gently rocked him back and forth. "Tell me about the dream," Nick said, his voice gentle and encouraging. Charlie sniffled and took a deep breath, trying to calm down. He looked up at Nick, his eyes searching for reassurance. As Charlie began to speak, Nick listened intently, his eyes never leaving Charlie's face. The room was quiet, except for the sound of Charlie's ragged breathing and the occasional creak of the old house. What happens next?