a path of blue roses

Theo’s never considered himself lucky. Everything he got, he fought for, clawed his way for it until his nails bled. Pushing and bending things to his whims is what he does—well, did. It stopped meaning much in the hospital with Tara. After that, it was just easier to give in.

Liam taps away at his game, still talking about all these little things in a low rumble of a voice. This boy who had, somehow, pulled Theo out of that place. This boy who fought together with him. This boy who is still here, despite everything.

Is that lucky?

In which there are summer afternoons, milkshakes, roses, learning how to let oneself be vulnerable and, oh—Animal Crossing.