"I’ll be here for you all you’ve got to do is call

I’m always waiting here for you

All you’ve got to do is keep on trying 'till your call gets through

For so many years I have been your friend

And we’ve been through everything time and time again

But I want you to know that I still believe in you "

Kian watched Shane as he nervously looked around the sitting room.

"Sit down Shane." Kian motioned for the sofa and Shane sat down, carefully. "Do you want a drink, something to eat?" Shane didn’t answer so Kian decided to go out in the kitchen and make something.

Shane looked around the living room. He had only been to Kian’s new house twice before, Kian had bought it just before… he didn’t even want to think about it.

There was a huge fire place on the left, complete with a cosy looking rug in front of it. It made Shane think of things he didn’t want to think about. There was a big Christmas tree in one corner, although for some reason it was not decorated.

Kian came in with a few sandwiches and milk, catching Shane staring at the tree. "I thought you might help me to dress it later." Kian said with a soft smile.

Shane spun around. "Yeah, maybe…" He accepted the sandwich Kian offered and eat it silently.

------ that evening ------

Kian slumped down in the sofa beside Shane. "Oh, what a day!" He said with a little sigh.

Shane just nodded. He didn’t know what to say at all. He was afraid if he started somewhere he’d say too much, far too much.

Kian admired the Christmas tree. "It looks lovely, doesn’t it?"

Shane nodded silently, aware that Kian’s eyes had diverted to him. He looked up, and as his eyes met Kian’s, a feeling that now seemed unfamiliar came over him. Sadness.

Kian watched Shane and saw his expression change. He held his breath.

Suddenly, a soft whimper escaped Shane. Kian automatically moved closer and pulled Shane into his arms, rocking him gently.

"Do you think I’m crazy?" Shane mumbled.

Kian stroked his hair. "Of course not Shane, don’t be ridiculous."

Shane sniffed and turned his tear filled eyes at Kian. "Then why do I feel like this?"

Kian was silent for a long while. "I don't know Shane…"

"I need help, don’t I?"

Kian was thrown by Shane’s sudden flow of emotions. He didn’t even stop to wait for Kian’s answer.

"I want help… I don’t wanna live like this, I-" He buried his head in Kian’s chest and cried bitterly.

Kian rocked him gently. Was this a good sign? Would Shane finally let people back into his life? He had no answers, but he could always hope….

Chapter 12 >>