Responses

it was not clearly stated but in the first part of the story Nicholas always looks to Ian in a way and there are also some hints particulatly in the latest chapter in which Nicholas thinks if Mr. Raymond said such bulgar things in front of him because he's comfortable with Nicholas or he is just making him "JEALOUS"
Nicholas did not even have a chance to confess with Ian but I am so glad because he is the bestest homie for them