Mike was terrified the next day. Besides the fact that his mind was whirling with the fact that he allowed Micky, a boy who liked boys, to hold his hand, he was also nervous about going back to school.

He hadn't gone since last Tuesday, when his father and sister were killed.

Mike was silent during the entire walk to school. Halfway there, he had an anxiety attack.

"Mike! Mike, are you okay?"

Everything was happening in a giant blur. One minute, Mike and Micky were walking together. The next minute, Mike was sitting on the sidewalk, propped up against Micky's chest.

"Wh-What happened?" Mike whimpered.

"You collapsed. Are you sure you're okay? You're shaking all over." Micky bit his lip as he nervously looked at the other boy.

"I-I'm fine."

"Are you sure? I can walk you back home—"

"I said I'm fine!" Mike snapped. Micky flinched and Mike softened.

"I'm sorry. I just...I want to get today over with."

Micky nodded and helped Mike up. They finished the walk to school and stood outside the front doors.

"Are you ready?" Micky asked.

Mike bit his lip. After a moment's hesitation, he took Micky's hand again (for assurance, he told himself) and nodded.

"I'm ready."