When we pull up at the Riordans', Trav is sitting by himself on the front step.

Despite my rush to get here, I drag my feet as Amy's taillights disappear up the street. There's a very good chance that this boy is mad and disappointed in me. Even if he isn't, I have not a single clue how to support someone who is about to lose their parent.

I take one look at his pale, shattered face and none of that matters.

He's my friend and I could love him and he needs me. Sometimes things are just that simple.

I sit on the step beside him and hold him while he cries.