Take My Hand and Keep

“I-um, that’s a longer story. Can we just go home for now? I’m really tired,” Richie says.Paul nods quickly and guides Richie towards the doors. “Of course, of course,” he agrees. “Do you need anything else?”“I uh,” almost automatically Richie looks over at Max. He halts. They stare at each other for a moment. Max feels strangely sad. He thinks of cold and dark night he will probably spend on a playground. Maybe there’s a diner still open somewhere.Richie hesitates. His face quickly moves through several different expressions. His fist, that is currently not in a sling, clenches and unclenches at his side. Finally, he gives in and groans. His face set in a determined mask he moves over to Max. “Do you need somewhere to stay tonight?”