Hearing Erik say that he wants to stick around; that he wants to stay brings him some relief. It's one less thing to worry about. The thing is he can't help but feel fiercely protective over the man. If Erik had been out there waging a war against the world instead of being here with him, Charles isn't sure what he would've done. Would he have tried to stop him? But at what cost?

As Erik takes his hand and kisses his knuckles, Charles thinks that he's never really known love like this. Not that they've said those three words out loud to each other just yet, but he certainly feels it. No one would think Erik capable of being kind and gentle and loving, but Charles does. He knows Erik cares for him very much and he feels the exact same way about him.

"You mean a great deal to me, Erik." He moves his hand to brush his thumb across the man's cheek. "I know this might sound terribly corny, but I do believe you've changed my life for the better, and I don't think I could be any happier than I am now." He smiles at him in an adoring way. "I am ever so glad I met you, my dear friend. But..." He then pinches Erik's cheek, albeit gently. "You do realise I've had to convince you to stay twice now. I hope you're not going to make a habit of this."