Archive of Our Own ^beta

Summary:

When thirteen-year-old Rupert Hope knocks on French teacher Nick Nelson-Spring's classroom door with a question about homework, neither of them knows it's the beginning of something life-changing.
Rupert is struggling—closeted, terrified, and trapped in a home where his father's homophobia makes it impossible to be himself. Nick and his husband Charlie (Truham's History teacher) become Rupert's safe space, and when his father discovers he has a boyfriend, the Nelson-Springs don't hesitate: they open their home and their hearts.
This is the story of Rupert finding his family, navigating first love and devastating heartbreak, and learning that home isn't where you're born, it's where you're loved unconditionally. From scared Year 8 student to confident human rights lawyer, Rupert's journey is one of healing, hope, and the families we choose for ourselves.
Featuring: supportive dads Nick and Charlie, brilliant little sister Cassie, one very enthusiastic golden retriever, the world's worst boyfriend Harrison, and a whole lot of found family feels.