Neal glances back, trying to meet Malcolm’s eyes with a brief apology before he goes after Tim. He lets the teen get far enough that they’re not right in front of the door, before stepping up his pace just enough to try and hug Tim again.

“I know you’re good at being fine. So am I. That wasn’t what I was asking about or trying to say.” He’ll let Tim go faster this time, or back off entirely if Tim fought the embrace. “Mind if I come with you to orientation?“

Yes, something ugly says. Stay close enough to feel the loss, close enough to sharpen the Lonely like the perfect blade it is.

Neal ignores it. He tries.