Hard Lessons

Summary: Nelson needs to learn his worth.
Warning(s): Spanking for discipline and maintenance. Platonic D/s. Semi-consensual; Boundaries being tested/explored. Potential spoilers for Flatliners. AU

###

Nelson was excited and apprehensive all at the same time.

He was excited because he'd just received notes from another scientist acquaintance, for an experiment he was keen to conduct himself. He was certain he could get further than they had and discover some truly interesting, unique, and potentially valuable information. Everything was set up, and he would be ready to start as soon as the last piece of equipment finished calibrating.

Of course, the excitement was slightly dimmed by the apprehension. The apprehension was because David didn't know what he was up to and if he found out, he would be very upset and disappointed. He'd been trying to talk with Nelson and stay involved in his activities, but Nelson hadn't told him about his plans. If David viewed his hiding his plans as a lie, he might even be furious. Nelson had felt a bit of hesitancy about not sharing, but even though he didn't think the experiment was dangerous, he thought David probably would. Plus, the only reason he'd got the notes from his acquaintance was because he'd shared his own notes about their experiment with death. He'd warned the other researcher, strongly, against doing things the same way. But still. He wondered if trading was still a mistake, even with giving the warnings.

So. He was apprehensive and excited. And the calibration had just finished. "Time to begin..." he whispered to himself and grinned before starting.

***

David returned to the apartment later than he'd intended, as he'd been caught up in something at the hospital. Since it was too late to cook anything and he thought that Nelson might have got caught up in his own work, he'd picked up takeout to bring home.

David unlocked the door to their apartment and brought the food inside, looking around for his friend. "Nelson?"

Nelson wasn't at home. He'd decided having a separate office to do his experiments in was advisable if he didn't want to be tempted to overwork. This he had done with David's approval and his friend knew where his 'lab' was located. He had left a note for David on the kitchen table, telling him he was at his lab.

When he headed into the kitchen, David spotted the note. He left the food in the bags to keep it warm, then slipped out of the apartment and headed to the other man's lab.

***

Nelson truly was trying to be careful and not take dangerous chances. As much as possible, anyway. Because of that, he had progressed very slowly, even if he was repeating the steps that the original scientist had followed. He was making notes, marking when his results ended differently than the original experiment. He was nearing one of the more complicated points, though. The risk was greater.

***

It didn't take long for David to reach Nelson's lab. He didn't need to knock on the door, as after they'd discussed and made the decision, they'd also decided that David should have a key.

David unlocked the door to the lab and slipped into the lab, immediately going to find his friend.

Nelson heard the door opening and knew it had to be David, but he'd reached the most critical part of the experiment and couldn't stop. He only hoped when his friend saw what he was doing, he wouldn't make him stop, as it would ruin the experiment. He'd left all his notes in a prominent place so David could read them if he wanted. Hopefully, after reading, he'd agree with Nelson's assessment that it wasn't an experiment that was too dangerous to do alone and that he didn't need 'supervision' to ensure safety. If David thought he should have had a lab partner 'in case of accident', then David would not be happy that he was conducting the experiment in a lab only David knew about without David being present.

David found the notes before he spotted his friend. He skimmed the notes at first...then paused and went through them in more detail, realising that the experiment Nelson was currently working on was not one that should be conducted without another person there.

Putting the notes down, David quickly headed over to Nelson. Watching to make sure the part of the experiment Nelson was at wasn't dangerous, he reached out and lightly gripped his friend's arm to stop him.

Nelson had just reached a point where he could safely stop and not ruin anything when he felt David grip his arm. He turned wide eyes onto his friend and housemate. "David! Just in time... I was finished for the day..." He attempted to pull away to begin cleanup, hoping his friend didn't ask questions.

"Nelson." David retrieved the notes and held them up so the other man could easily see what he was holding. "Can you explain this?" His voice was serious, but not stern...at least not yet. He'd get an explanation from Nelson before figuring out his next move.

Nelson audibly gulped at the question, looking at the notes guiltily. "It's an experiment... I traded notes with another scientist. I'm recreating what he did to see if we get the same results... Depending on what I find out, I'll take it further...." He bit his lip uncertainly. If David had read the notes, he'd know exactly what Nelson had been up to. Would he make him stop or be upset? It wasn't exactly the safest experiment he could do.

David watched Nelson closely and slowly shook his head. "Nelson. I read the notes. I know how unsafe this experiment is." He paused before adding, "We've talked about those kinds of experiments already." For the moment, he didn't ask Nelson what he'd traded for the notes...but he'd definitely noticed that comment.

"It isn't unsafe, though, if the proper precautions are taken!" Nelson tried to convince David it was fine. He knew the proper precautions included having a second person with him to get help if needed. He was hoping his friend ignored that little caveat.

"Proper precautions like having a second person with you for safety reasons?" David raised his eyebrows.

Nelson visibly winced, then slumped. He wouldn't insult his friend's intelligence any further by making excuses. "Yessir..." His voice was soft, resigned, and guilty sounding. "I've cleaned up. I can go home now if you want. I took an Uber so I wouldn't have to worry about parking..." he added on.

"I brought my car," David said. "We can go back home together." It wasn't really phrased as a suggestion, more of an order. "On the drive back, you can tell me what you traded to get those notes," he added.

Nelson winced again, a tiny whine accompanying it. But he didn't argue. He followed David outside, locking the lab up. Pausing for a few seconds, he sighed and handed the key to the lab to his friend. He had a feeling he wouldn't be allowed back alone any time soon if he was allowed at all. Maybe if he let David hold both sets of keys without David having to ask for them, it might get him a little leniency and he wouldn't have to give up the lab entirely.

And yes... he was an adult and legally, David couldn't really stop him from working alone. But that wasn't what he'd agreed to. He may mess up in a lot of different ways, but he didn't want to mess up what he had with his best friend.

"Thank you," David replied. He put the key away and then led the way to his car. He got in the driver's side and buckled himself in, waiting for Nelson to join him before he started driving. "You can explain the rest to me now." Once again, it wasn't a suggestion.

Swallowing then sighing, Nelson explained how he'd come to receive the notes for his current experiment. He didn't try and hide the truth, though he was quick to point out, "I warned him against actually doing it himself. I told him it was too dangerous to risk. I also made certain I only gave him my notes. He doesn't have your notes, or Rachel's, or Joe's...." Nelson bit his lip. "If he decides to turn them over to any authorities, I'm the only one who could get into trouble and as I did it to myself, they can't really say I was being unethical. Might commit me for observation..." he finished uncertainly.

"What did he say about the notes? About what he planned to do?" David asked directly. He believed his friend, that Nelson had warned him against actually experimenting with death. However, their own experiences had resulted in Nelson nearly dying and all of them having to face the sins of their past in frightening ways that had caused a lot of emotional wounds and turmoil.

"He.... He didn't say anything..." Nelson admitted hesitantly.

"You didn't ask him?" David frowned, a hint of disappointment creeping into his voice.

Nelson fidgeted, hearing the disappointment, and looked at his lap. "I was afraid if I asked, I'd find out he was planning to ignore my warnings, and I wasn't sure what I would do then. If I could do anything...."

"We need to find out what he's planning to do with them," David said. "Get them back, if we can. Those kinds of experiments are too dangerous. You nearly died." His fingers clenched slightly around the steering wheel.

"Even if we get the notes back... Most of the notes were what I experienced. The description of how I killed myself and then was brought back only took a few sentences. He'd still be able to recreate the situation if he wanted..." Nelson sounded worried. Thinking a few more seconds, he told David the other scientist's name.

"I'll give him a call once we get home and after we deal with this," David said. "Even if he's able to recreate the experiment, if I warn him against it as well, he might listen." Not that Nelson had...but Nelson had never been that willing to listen to people before they'd formed their unconventional relationship.

"Yessir..." Nelson mumbled, sinking down into the seat. He knew what David meant when he said they'd deal with it. He wasn't looking forward to that.

David didn't say anything during the drive back to the apartment. Once they'd reached it, he parked outside and then got out of the car, moving round to the passenger side to open the door for Nelson.

Nelson reluctantly got out of the car to follow his friend inside. Only his need to keep his relationship and not throw away something he knew he needed kept him from arguing. "I have his phone number. If you need it," he said softly, as they entered the apartment.

David nodded. "That would be helpful," he agreed. Once they were inside the apartment, the door closed and locked behind them, he turned to his friend. "Is there anything else I should know about?"

Nelson slumped. "No, sir," he admitted unhappily. "Just... Do I have to be spanked?" He winced as his voice came out whiny. Pathetic. He was a grown adult who knew what was expected and knew what David would do if he found out, when he found out, so he couldn't claim ignorance, or that it was unfair. He'd known full well what would happen and did it anyway. He might not feel like he deserved a spanking, but he knew he deserved it if David chose to follow through.

"Nelson." David gentled his tone a little as he said, "This isn't the first time you've carried out experiments that aren't safe. And that dangerous behaviour is why the rules are in place. I'm afraid you are due a spanking because you did something that you knew you weren't supposed to. Something that we've already discussed multiple times before."

"I... I know, Sir. I know better. I just... Just can't seem to learn." He bit his lip and couldn't face David. "I'm sorry I'm such a problem. Such a pain in the ass...."

"You aren't a problem, Nelson," David said honestly. "I know it's difficult for you to rein yourself in sometimes. That's why we have the rules in place. To help you learn and do better next time."

"Yessir..." Nelson's response sounded depressed, dejected. "So... I get a spanking... is... is anything else going to happen?"

"This isn't the first time you've done a dangerous experiment before," David replied. "The last time that happened, I warned you that I'd have to consider daily spankings as reminders."

Nelson's eyes widened and he looked up at David anxiously. "Are... Are you going to... everyday?" He couldn't stop his voice from shaking. He never managed to get through a spanking without falling into a needy, submissive mindset. It made it difficult, if not impossible, to do things he needed to without David's help. If he was spanked every day....

"I'm not going to break the promise I made to you," David said. "I warned you what would happen if you did a dangerous experiment again. I don't want to risk losing you, Nelson. Not again. I'll do anything to make sure that doesn't happen."

Nelson couldn't help the tiny whimper that escaped, but he nodded in acceptance of David's words. Even though he didn't want a spanking and wished he could talk his friend out of it, he was grateful the other man kept his promises. And he couldn't lie to himself... warmth pooled in his stomach at the knowledge David would keep his promises and would keep him safe, even from himself.

"Will... will it just be once a day? At night?" he asked hesitantly. He knew himself. Once David spanked him, he'd be useless the rest of the day and evening and might as well go to bed. If David punished him in the morning, he'd get nothing done.

"Once a day, at night," David confirmed. Since he'd had personal experience with how Nelson reacted after a spanking, he knew that nighttime would be a better time to take care of things. That way, Nelson wouldn't be expected to try and pull himself together and deal with anything during the day.

Nelson visibly relaxed and nodded, giving David a crooked smile. "Thank you..." he whispered. David knew him so well; he figured his friend would know he was thanking him for not making it too difficult to handle. Biting his lip, he blushed. "Do you want to get the first one done immediately?" he asked. "I don't need to leave the apartment anymore today and... and..." He swallowed, before reluctantly admitting, "I know I deserve it. I feel guilty now... I'm sorry I keep doing this to you."

David nodded. "There's no reason to put it off any longer," he agreed. He didn't actually enjoy spanking Nelson, even though he couldn't deny that he got some sense of satisfaction out of doing so. Reaching out, he gripped his friend's hand and led Nelson through to his own bedroom.

Trusting David to lead him, Nelson followed quietly behind, staring at the ground. Now that he'd had to admit everything to his friend, he truly was feeling guilty. As much as he hated being spanked, it did provide him a sense of stability and... comfort... because he knew he could trust his friend. It helped settle the thoughts that so often plagued him that he wasn't worth the effort of caring about, because David obviously thought he was. So... He might not like it, but he knew he needed it. "Will it be hard?" he asked cautiously. He wasn't sure if he was hoping for a positive or negative response.

"Since you'll be receiving daily spankings as a reminder after this one, it will be hard," David answered. He left unsaid that it would mean the daily spankings didn't need to be very hard, just enough to reignite the sting and make sure they were effective.

Nelson whimpered again softly but didn't argue. "Yessir... I deserve it," he said softly. And he meant it. He wasn't upset or scared at receiving a hard spanking along with daily spankings. He really did feel guilty. Especially considering the fact he'd given his notes to another scientist, and he'd feel horrible if they attempted what he and the others had and died permanently. Even if he'd warned them against it and they could have easily figured out how to do their own experiment without his notes, giving them his notes put the idea into their head. He wasn't certain he didn't deserve daily hard spankings.

David squeezed Nelson's hand gently. Once they were inside his room, he didn't waste any time in leading his friend over to the bed. Taking a seat on it, he drew Nelson over to stand in front of him and began to strip his friend.

Nelson blinked back tears and sniffled but didn't fight as David stripped him bare. It was part of their process when he'd messed up badly enough for David to step in, after all. Nelson would be naked and vulnerable to his friend. He wouldn't be clothed again until it was time for him to leave for whatever work or appointments, he had the next day. And that was only if he had to leave the apartment. If he was in the apartment, he would be naked. It had happened often enough that he no longer felt embarrassed or ashamed being unclothed in front of David. It would have felt odder not to be, since he was being punished. He toed off his shoes, and let David undress him, and waited for his instructions.

Once Nelson was naked, David gently gripped his friend's hands and looked into his eyes. "Is there anything else you need to say, or would like to say, before we start dealing with this?" he asked gently.

"Just... I know I messed up," Nelson whispered. "If I'd believed what I was doing was right, I would have told you my plans before even starting... get your opinion on things. I keep doing things I shouldn't without thinking about it enough, but I know by now if I don't want to include you immediately, chances are it is because you'd disapprove. I should take that as my sign not to do it... I don't know why I'm so stupid I ignore something so obvious, but I am sorry...." He blinked back tears. "And... I hope you can stop my notes from being used. I've felt guilty about sharing them from the moment I did it. Even if I warned them not to...."

"I'll do what I can," David promised. "And I believe you're sorry, Nelson. Once the punishment is over with, you'll be forgiven. I won't leave you or give up on you. No matter what happens." Squeezing Nelson's hands, David then guided the other man into position across his lap, securing Nelson there with an arm wrapped around his waist.

"Okay..." Nelson whispered, trusting David would do as he said. As David positioned him over his lap, he reached down, holding onto his friend's leg for balance, and to keep himself from reaching back to block the spanking.  He knew he most likely would be throwing his hands back anyway, eventually, but unless David decided to hold his hands in place from the very beginning, this was the best he could do to cooperate.

David rubbed Nelson's back for a few moments, then lifted his hand and brought it down in a firm, hard smack. The second smack was delivered almost on top of the first, before he delivered a matching pair of swats to Nelson's opposite buttock.

Nelson couldn't stop the tiny yelp that escaped at the first smack. He also couldn't keep himself from immediately beginning to squirm. Even knowing that the spanking was going to be hard, he hadn't been prepared for how hard. Within three swats, it had gone from mild sting to full burn. His grip on David's leg tightened noticeably as he attempted to keep his hands out of the way and not block. It was very difficult, though. He wanted to throw his hands back and cover his bottom so badly, all he could do to prevent it was tense up very obviously.

David noticed that Nelson was struggling not to throw his hands back and he lightly patted his friend's lower back. "Give me your hands, Nelson," he directed.

Letting out a tiny gasp at the order, Nelson immediately obeyed. He was grateful David was willing to help him, even if he couldn't voice the gratitude just yet. He knew if he attempted to talk, he'd immediately begin crying.

Grasping Nelson's hands, David held them against the small of his back, so they were out of the way, and settled into a pattern of the firm, hard swats, working over every inch of Nelson's bottom from the crest down to mid-thigh.

It was easier and harder with David holding his hands. It was easier because he could grip his friend's hand, drawing comfort that David would help him. It was harder because he was no longer focusing on trying to keep his hands in place and now had to fully focus on the swats. They hurt. His wriggling became more frantic the longer the spanking continued. Eventually, he couldn't keep it in... a choked cry escaped. And then the dam burst. He began to cry hard.

David gripped Nelson's hands tighter, squeezing them firmly, hoping his friend would draw comfort from the touch. While before, he would have stopped the spanking after Nelson started crying, he'd promised his friend that this would be a 'hard' spanking, because they'd had to deal with this before. So instead of stopping, he forced himself to continue, beginning a new circuit of swats and going a bit harder and faster.

Nelson continued to squirm and cry, the strength of both increasing as the strength and speed of the swats increased. They increased until his body and brain caught up with each other and seemed to realize, at the same time, the futility of squirming and crying. When he finally accepted his position and that what was occurring would only end when David felt he'd had enough, he slumped in submissive acceptance. He no longer tried to get away and while he was still crying hard, he was also apologizing. "...Sorry... So sorry... Don't wanna be bad and worry you... Wanna... Wanna make you happy... Wanna be good..."  he blubbered.

David gentled the swats a little, although he continued to deliver them as he spoke. "I believe you are good, Nelson. No matter what your behaviour might indicate. If you weren't good, if you were bad, you wouldn't care about how your actions have affected other people. How they have affected me."

"I... I keep doing the same wrong thing.... Disappointing you." Nelson's voice shook and sounded hopeless. Even though the swats had lessened enough for him to talk, by this point, his bottom hurt so bad, it wasn't much difference.

"I believe you can change. That you can learn. You aren't beyond hope." David moved his hand a bit lower, focusing more swats to Nelson's sit spots and the tops of his thighs...though he kept the swats at the lighter force.

"I'm afraid I can't..." Nelson admitted. "...I already know what I should do. I just keep doing the opposite and... and hiding it until you catch me. Cuz the one thing I am able to do is tell you the truth. I can't lie. But everything else?" He started sobbing again.

"We're going to work on it, Nelson," David promised. "I believe you can change and do better, even if it means you need a bit more help." He'd lessened the force behind the smacks to the point where they were really only just firm pats. "I believe in you," he reiterated.

"I need your help..." Nelson's voice was small. Weak. "Can't be good for you on my own," he whispered. "Please, help me?"

"Always," David promised. "I will always help you, Nelson. You're my best friend and I love you." He carefully moved Nelson onto his lap instead of over it, hugging the other man tightly.

Nelson immediately clung to David, snuggling as close as it was humanly possible to do. "I'm sorry I hid things...." he whispered.

David wrapped his arms tighter around Nelson, brushing a kiss against the top of his head, and whispered, "I know you are. And I forgive you.” 

"I don't want to hide things," Nelson continued, with a tiny sniffle. "I don't really. But then I turn around and do it anyway..." he said sadly. "I tell the truth when asked, but... I need to tell you before you ask. I don't know why I can't seem to learn to do that...."

"Then maybe me taking a firmer hand with you this time will help you with that," David said, rubbing gently down over Nelson's back and bottom.

Nelson sniffled again and nodded before pressing closer, hiding his face against David's chest, almost tucking his head under the other man's chin. "M... maybe..." Nelson paused reluctantly, not certain if he wanted to tell David what he had just thought, even if it might be beneficial.

"What is it?" David encouraged gently, letting his lips rest against Nelson's hair.

"Maybe... I need to tell you my plans for the day... Every morning..." David sniffled and snuggled closer, ashamed it was needed. "Tell you every time I'm doing an experiment, what it is and what I need to do for it. So, you can decide if I'm allowed...."

David let his hands rub gently up and down Nelson's back and bottom as he listened to his friend's suggestion. "I think that would be a really good idea," he agreed. "I'm proud of you for thinking of it."

"I really am sorry I hid things..." Nelson's voice caught and he hid his face against David's chest as tears began to well in his eyes again.

"I know. And I forgive you. We'll get past this," David promised.

Nelson believed his brother. He really did. But he didn't believe in himself, and he felt so guilty, David's words didn't have the intended effect. Nelson began to sob again, clinging tightly.

"Hey...." David shifted slightly, settling them both on the bed, and hugged Nelson tightly to himself. "It's okay. We'll be okay. I promise," he whispered.

As soon as David shifted them so they were fully on the bed, Nelson wrapped around him tightly, arms and legs tangled up, still clinging like a barnacle to a ship. David was his ship. He'd drown without the other man. He knew he would. "...Sorry..." he sobbed helplessly. He couldn't overcome his anxiety or fear, no matter how much he believed and trusted David.

"You don't need to apologise again," David said soothingly, still rubbing his hand down Nelson's back and over his bottom. "We're going to get through this. I promise. Because I love you. And no matter what happens, I'm not going to let you go. And I won't let you let go either," he whispered, his voice low and intense.

"You'll help me hold on?" Nelson gasped out, having cried so long and hard, his tears were dry, and it was affecting his breathing. His grip tightened and he tried to press closer still. He was grateful David insisted on his being naked when they were home alone... it still didn't feel close enough, but at least there wasn't that barrier between them.

"I will always help you," David promised. He could hear his brother's breathing and he freed one arm from Nelson, reaching back to open the minifridge he'd begun storing in his room. He retrieved a bottle of water and opened it, helping Nelson to drink.

Nelson obediently drank, slowly calming the longer David took care of him. He still felt so guilty and a failure after what he'd done. Only the promise of being spanked every day for at least the next week kept him from asking David to turn him over his knee again, although he couldn't help thinking he deserved to be, even if he was going to receive a spanking the next night. "Need you in control of me..." he whispered forlornly, his throat scratchy sounding, though not as scratchy as it had been before being given the water.

"I know," David murmured. "And I'm going to be in control of you, Nelson. I'm going to look after you. I won't ever let you go," he promised. "You're mine, Nelson. You belong with me and to me." His other hand continued to rub gently down Nelson's back.

"With you and to you..." Nelson repeated, calming further. "...Forever yours..." He lay his head on David's chest and nuzzled.

David brushed a kiss over Nelson's head and stroked his hair and back. "I've got you."

"C... can I stay home tomorrow? Call in sick?" Nelson whispered hopefully. He didn't know if David could stay home, but if he couldn't, he might not want Nelson to stay home alone.

"I think that's a good idea," David agreed. "I can take the day off and stay with you." Honestly, he'd rather Nelson wasn't alone after this.

"Can you?" Nelson looked up, the hope on his face, in his eyes, so heavy, it couldn't be missed.

"I'm not going to leave you alone," David promised. "I don't think that would be good for either of us."

"Thank you... I... I need to be with you..." Nelson admitted, before impulsively kissing his brother on the cheek.

"I need you to be with me too," David said honestly. "It's not a hardship. Trust me." 

Relaxing at the words, reassured that he wasn't a burden, Nelson continued snuggling.

"Do you think you feel up to eating something?" David asked softly, remembering that he'd brought takeout home before going to find his brother.

"I don't feel hungry, but I haven't eaten since breakfast," Nelson admitted. "If you want me to eat, I'll try...."

"I would like you to try. You shouldn't be going so long without eating...." David's worry was obvious.

"Yessir..." Nelson agreed quietly. He'd fallen into the obedient, reliance on David mindset that he so often fell into after being punished. He wouldn't argue.

David gently rubbed Nelson's hip and then helped his brother to stand, standing up as well. Holding Nelson close, he led his brother through to the kitchen so that he could reheat their food.

Nelson snuggled close as he could, humming happily at the gentle affection. He stayed standing while David reheated the food. He knew he'd have to sit eventually, but he didn't want to face it just yet.

Once the food was ready, David plated it up. He then snagged a cushion from the main room and placed that on his lap when he sat down, before guiding Nelson down to sit on his lap on the cushion.

Nelson gingerly sat down, managing to keep his sounds to a soft whimper. He didn't argue about sitting on David's lap. He needed the closeness.

David wrapped his arms around Nelson, situating them so that they could both eat easily, while still keeping in close contact with his brother.

Dinner was uneventful and David stayed with him the remainder of the evening until it was time for bed. They'd watched TV and Nelson had pretty much been attached to David the entire time. When it was time for bed, Nelson bit his lip and asked hesitantly, "Shower first and then...?" That was as far as his bravery went. If he was getting a spanking every night before bed, did the earlier spanking count for today or not?

"You were spanked already earlier today," David said. "Starting tomorrow, you'll be getting a spanking before bedtime each night. But no extra bedtime spanking tonight."

Nelson felt relief and a flood of affection that his friend wouldn't make him have to take another spanking. Impulsively, he threw his arms around David and held tight. "Thank you..." he whispered.

David wrapped his own arms around Nelson in a tight hug. "I want to change your behaviour. I don't want to hurt you," he said softly. "I love you."

Shivering slightly, Nelson tightened his grip. "I love you too... So much...." He snuggled closer, nuzzling David's shoulder before loosening his grip enough they could walk. He'd do whatever David asked.

"You feel up to having a shower?" David asked softly, taking in the mindset Nelson had fallen into and not sure his brother would be 'safe' taking a shower on his own.

"...I don't wanna leave you..." Nelson said in a small voice, even though a shower sounded like a good idea.

"How about a bath?" David suggested, since he could more easily stay in the bathroom with Nelson and be more visible that way.

Nelson quickly nodded, pressing close to David. "Yes, please?"

His brother was naked already, so David wrapped his arm a bit tighter around his brother's waist and led Nelson into the bathroom. Once they were inside, he began to run the bath.

"I'm sorry I'm such a problem..." Nelson suddenly whispered out of nowhere. "I love you... Don't want to cause problems or disappoint you."

"You aren't a problem, Nelson," David said. "You're my brother and my best friend. I'm not disappointed in you...and you aren't causing me problems."

'I don't deserve you..." Nelson gave David enough room to run the bath, but otherwise stayed as close as possible.

"Yeah, you do," David said firmly. "You deserve to be taken care of. To have someone in your corner, no matter what." He finished running the bath and then helped Nelson to get into it.

"I'm lucky... Lucky you're my best friend... My brother. You could have given up on me... Left me to face the consequences for my mistakes alone. No one would blame you...." Nelson carefully got into the tub, hesitantly reaching out and putting his hand against David's arm, as if needing to feel that the other man was there; that he wasn't imagining it.

David gently squeezed Nelson's hand. "I could never give up on you, Nelson. I love you. Even when you make mistakes, I won't ever give up on you or leave you alone to face the consequences of any mistakes you might make."

"Because you help me... And when I mess up, you correct me and teach me..." Nelson said softly, squeezing David's hand back before beginning to wash himself.

"Always," David promised. "There's nothing you could do to make me stop."

Nelson gave a tiny smile at that, quickly finishing cleaning himself. "I'm done..." he said, as he carefully stood.

"Good," David murmured, before reaching for a towel so that he could help his brother out of the tub and dry him off.

Nelson quietly waited for David to help him. He could easily dry himself, but he was still in the mostly submissive mindset where he needed to be taken care of, at least emotionally. Letting David dry him off and lead him to bed filled that need.

Once his brother was dry, David wrapped his arm around Nelson's waist and led him through to the bedroom.

"if... If you need to do stuff, I can lay down by myself... If I can hear you or see you... I'll be okay..." Nelson offered hesitantly. He really didn't want to be alone, but he also knew David had spent an enormous amount of time taking care of him and his needs, which meant neglecting his own. He didn't want to be selfish and tried to give David an out of it was needed.

"It's okay," David said gently. "I don't have anything else to do. I don't have anything I need to do. Apart from take care of you and be here for you." In the bedroom, he helped Nelson to lay down on the bed.

Nelson's smile was grateful and innocent. He believed and trusted his brother's words and it allowed what worry he had to disappear. Years of worry fell off his shoulders and he seemed younger. Crawling into the bed at David's urging, he lay on his stomach. His bottom was still very tender.

David settled on the bed next to Nelson and reached out, beginning to rub his brother's back gently and soothingly.

Nelson sighed happily, scooting closer so that he could put his head on David's chest and snuggle. "Love you..." he murmured, closing his eyes to focus on the affection.

"I love you too," David murmured, brushing a kiss against Nelson's head.

Despite his bottom being sore, it didn't take long for Nelson to fall asleep, secure in his brother's arms.

*****

The next morning, Nelson woke up at his usual time so that he could call in sick. He knew he wouldn't be able to do that too often, but at least for this day, he needed the time off to regain his equilibrium. After making his call, he stood in front of the mirror, trying to assess the 'damage'.

David woke up about the same time Nelson did, calling into work as well. Then, he headed into the kitchen to start making him and Nelson breakfast.

He'd finally determined that even though his backside still felt tender, there was no obvious coloration. He walked into the kitchen with a tiny pout on his face. He'd hoped to gain a little 'sympathy' and extra attention because of his bottom being red. But...since it wasn't even pink, that sympathy wouldn't occur.

David looked up as his brother entered the kitchen, smiling happily to see Nelson. "Good morning. How are you feeling?" He'd noticed the pout, but Nelson didn't seem to be in any distress, so he wasn't too worried.

Nelson couldn't help but smile back, the pout turning a little more playful. "Bottom is still sore, but it's not even pink!" he declared.

"I put a cushion on the chair for you." David rested a hand on Nelson's shoulder, squeezing gently, and then led his brother towards the table so they could sit and eat.

Nelson carefully sat, managing to control his wince. "What will we go today?" he asked curiously. He was content to let David be in control.

"There's nowhere either of us need to be today, so I figured we'd stay home," David answered. "Maybe watch a movie together."

"Sounds perfect..." Nelson smiled more brightly.

"Good. No worrying about work or any other responsibilities. Just spending the day together," David said.

"Exactly....perfect..." Nelson said, exhibiting pure happiness.

Once they'd finished eating, David stood up and began cleaning up.

Nelson helped with cleanup so that they could go watch movies together more quickly.

*****

It was nearing the end of the fourth day. After the first day, when Nelson had stayed home sick, Nelson had returned to his part time job and classes. It wasn't easy; his bottom was so very sensitive and increasingly sorer with each progressive day due to the nightly spankings. It was difficult to not react whenever he sat down and give away the fact his backside ached. Somehow, he managed, at least outside the apartment. Each night when he'd returned home and knew he wouldn't be going out again for that day, he'd obediently stripped naked for David and put himself over the other man's knee for another spanking. That was difficult to do also, no matter how much he knew he deserved it and needed David to follow through with the punishment. And it became increasingly more difficult each night.

Nelson almost made an excuse to stay out later, not return home. He didn't want to upset or worry David, though, and postponing the punishment, even if only for a few hours, wouldn't really help his mindset. He forced himself to go home, letting himself into the apartment and closing and locking the door before turning to head into the kitchen, where he knew David was making dinner. "I'm home," he said in a shaky voice, already beginning to drop into the submissive and needy mindset he always ended up in when David spanked him. He began to remove his clothing, folding it carefully and putting it onto a nearby stool. By the time he was fully naked, tears were already pooling in his eyes, and he was fighting the urge to press into David, seeking comfort.  "Do... do you want me to stand in the corner while you finish dinner?" he asked, in a small voice. He felt so vulnerable and helpless and needy. And he felt very nervous about the spanking he knew he had coming. His bottom was so sore!

David had noticed the fact that the spankings were affecting Nelson. The maintenance spankings were meant to have an impact on his brother, which was why he'd chosen to continue using them on his brother.

But he could tell that Nelson was already close to dropping. And he didn't want to push his brother too much. Instead, he walked over to Nelson and wrapped his arms around his brother, murmuring softly, "You don't need to stand in the corner. Why don't you stick close to me while I finish making dinner?"

Nelson immediately took advantage of David holding onto him and pressed close, snuggling. "I won't be in your way?" he asked hopefully. He obviously needed to stay close to David, even if he couldn't stay in the other man's arms. David holding him helped the nervousness, the fear, that was creeping up on him to ebb away. He still wasn't looking forward to more spanking, but the unease that had been building all the way home was gone. David had him and would protect him. He could handle anything, if David was with him. He nuzzled the other man's shoulder, betraying how needy he was.

"You won't be in the way," David promised. "You might have to step back to let me finish cutting some of the vegetables, but otherwise, you can stay close. And if you need to stay close while we're eating, you can sit on my lap," he offered.

"Okay..." Nelson nuzzled a little more. "Thank you..." he whispered. "I don't mean to be a baby, but... I feel anxious. Being with you helps...."

"You're not being a baby, Nelson," David said gently. "There's nothing wrong with feeling better being close to me. Being close to your brother." He brushed a kiss against the side of Nelson's head.

Nelson relaxed at the words. "I... I'm glad there isn't. Cuz if there was, I'd be in big trouble..." He smiled crookedly, moving with David so his brother could finish what he had been working on.

As promised, David kept Nelson close to him...and stayed in physical contact wherever it was possible to. Once the food was ready, he plated it up and brought it over to the table. He then sat down and guided Nelson down to sit on his lap.

Nelson shivered as he sat on David's lap, managing not to make any noise, although it was obvious that it stung. "I love you..." he whispered. "Thank you for not... for letting me..." He paused, uncertain how to voice how grateful he was that David understood his need to be kept close.

"I love you too." David kissed the side of his head and situated his brother so that they could both easily eat. "I want to keep you close, Nelson. I know the daily spankings have been hard, but this week isn't just about punishment. It's about pulling you closer as well."

Nelson smiled bashfully. "I... I know. If I'm closer, you can keep an eye on me. Protect me from myself. And remind me not to be careless with myself. The spankings are to help keep me focused on why that's important, so I always think about it...." He blushed. "I wish I could remember and think about it without being spanked. I hate worrying and disappointing you. I hate that the lesson doesn't last forever and I always worry and disappoint you once it has worn off...."

"That's one of the main reasons for these maintenance spankings. To help you remember." David kissed the side of his head. "But even if you slip up sometimes, it's not the end of the world. Even if I'm worried and disappointed, I never stay that way for long."

"I know. Still don't like it when I do it, though...." Nelson sighed and continued quietly eating.

"I know," David replied softly. "But it isn't the end of the world. And it's not going to change anything about our relationship."

By that time, they had both finished their dinner. Nelson quietly got up and began to help clean. He knew soon, he couldn't be in any emotional frame of mind to do anything.

Once cleanup had finished, David wrapped an arm around Nelson's waist and led his brother through to the bedroom.

"How... How many more nights?" Nelson asked faintly, as he let himself be led.

"The rest of this week," David answered. "And then it'll be over." Inside the bedroom, he led his brother towards the bed.

Nelson relaxed slightly at knowing how long was left. It didn't feel so overwhelming, knowing. He obediently moved where David led, making it easy to position him.

David sat down on the bed and guided Nelson into position across his lap. Once his brother was positioned, though, he noticed that Nelson's bottom was still bright red... appearing bruised and even raw in some areas. He didn't start swatting straight away, instead considering what his next move should be.

Nelson was trying to relax, to submit, but it wasn't easy. He was so sore. And the fact David was hesitating made him nervous. "David?" he asked softly, his voice catching.

"It's okay, brother," David murmured reassuringly. "I've got you. You're safe." He reached out for a tube of antiseptic cream and opened it. He squirted some into his hands, then began to carefully rub it into Nelson's bottom.

Nelson whimpered softly as David began to rub, but it was obviously relieving. His body slowly began to lose its tension as the cream was rubbed in.

"I've got you, brother," David reiterated, his voice still as reassuring and gentle as he could make it, as he continued to rub the cream into Nelson's backside.

"You always do have me..." Nelson acknowledged, in a grateful, needy voice. His emotions had been close to dropping before. David taking care of him before punishing him pushed him over the edge and he fell. He couldn't do anything but listen to and obey his brother.

David was able to tell that Nelson had dropped, but it didn't worry him. Once he'd finished rubbing the cream into Nelson's bottom, he continued to gently rub and squeeze over his brother's back and down his legs. He wasn't spanking...didn't really intend to, since Nelson's backside was raw in places...but he was ensuring his brother would feel the effects of David's control for the rest of the night.

Nelson slumped over David's knee, completely submissive and reliant on his brother. Tears pooled and fell down his face at the gentle treatment, but he didn't cry loudly. The sensitive, burning ache that had been present since his punishment began increased again just from the attention. "Yours..." he whispered.

"Mine," David whispered in return, his voice possessive. "I love you, Nelson. I'm not going to lose you. I can't lose you."

"You won't... Not if I tell you what my plans are before I do them... Let you be completely in charge..." Nelson whimpered, the knowledge of his brother’s control over him causing him to slip further.

"That's what I expect from you. What I want from you," David said. "As long as you do that, you'll be my good boy."

Nelson shivered at the words. "I wanna be your good boy..." he admitted, in a very small voice.

"You are," David murmured, his voice low, reassuring, and comforting.

"Thank you for helping me..." Nelson said, in a voice that was getting progressively fainter and shakier as he remained under his brother's care.

"I always will," David promised. The cream was now fully absorbed into his brother's bottom, and he carefully moved Nelson off his lap, stretching out on the bed and pulling his brother in close.

Nelson pressed as close as possible, tangling his legs with David’s, and wrapping his arms around his waist tightly before putting his head on David's chest. "No spanking?" he asked hesitantly.

"I don't think it's necessary tonight." David brushed a kiss over the top of Nelson's head.

"So, I can snuggle now?" Nelson nuzzled David's chest.

"Yes. As much as you want." David tightened his arms a bit around his brother.

Nelson continued to snuggle close, needy, until he fell asleep.

***

The rest of the week continued in much the same way, with Nelson coming straight home from work and David taking care of his brother for the rest of the evening. For the most part, he hadn't really spanked Nelson...only patting enough to reignite the sting, but otherwise focusing more on taking care of his brother and reassuring Nelson that he hadn't messed up everything, and that he was forgiven and still loved.

David got home a bit early from work and he began cooking immediately, having already decided to make Nelson's favourite dish for dinner. He wanted to make his brother feel good; to make Nelson happy.

It was the last night of being 'reminded'. Nelson hadn't done anything in his lab all week between work, school, and needing to be home early. He hadn't missed it, to his surprise. He was beginning to fret that he and David wouldn't be spending as much time together once the punishment was completed. He let himself into the apartment, locked the door, then stripped before going to look for his brother, a slightly sad look on his face.

David looked up, smiling in welcome as his brother stepped into the kitchen...although the smile faded into concern as he noticed the sad look on Nelson's face. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing's wrong..." Nelson smiled crookedly. “I... I'm just going to miss spending all this time with you when everything goes back to normal." He sighed, moving to help if needed.

"You don't have to stop spending time with me, even when everything goes back to normal," David pointed out. "In fact, I'd like it if we continued to make time to spend together after today."

"Can we schedule things? I won't be as tempted to stay in my lab too long, so you have to come get me, if I have plans to be with you..." Nelson blushed.

David smiled. "We can do that," he replied.

Nelson smiled brightly, obviously happier. "Can I help with anything?" He looked at the dinner.

"You can mix the sauce," David suggested, shifting so that Nelson could do that if he wanted.

"Okay." Nelson shifted next to David so he could do that. It didn't take long for their dinner to be ready.

As he put the food onto plates and carried them to the table, David looked at Nelson carefully...trying to see if his brother needed to sit on his lap again or not.

Nelson poured water into glasses and carried them to the table. "If it's alright, can I still sit on your lap?" he asked softly.

"Of course." David smiled at his brother. "Any time you need or want to. You don't even have to ask." Once everything was on the table, he sat down, situating himself so that Nelson could easily sit on his lap.

"I don't know why, but... It helps me..." Nelson smiled crookedly before carefully sitting on David's lap. He made sure to situate himself in such a way his brother could easily eat.

"I'm glad," David replied. "Whatever I can do to help you, I'll do it." He kissed the side of Nelson's head, then began to eat.

Nelson smiled again, then began to eat. He carried on a decent conversation as they ate, telling David what he had done while out of the house and letting him know his plans for the next day. He made certain to give David time to comment or make suggestions if he didn't agree with the plans.

David listened intently, interjecting where it was appropriate, or when he needed to make a suggestion. Otherwise, though, he let his brother talk...happy that Nelson was feeling better now that they were at the end of this difficult week.

Nelson was feeling happy and optimistic, even though there was one more spanking to go. He felt tightly connected to his brother, the closeness helping him in ways he hadn't even realized he needed.

David didn't immediately move to get up once they'd finished eating, instead leaving it up to Nelson to decide when he was ready to start cleanup. For David's part, he would have been happy to sit talking, just spending time with his brother, for the rest of the night.

The End