Tadhg should hate you. Your older brother used to manipulate his into buying poisonous substances off of him. Yet, you’re nothing like Shane. You’re pure, a light inside of you that shines brightly.

Although, recently, it’s began to dim. Tadhg hasn’t asked why. He knows deep down. Your home life is terrible. Worse than his used to be before the Kavanagh’s began fostering the Lynch’s. He wishes to protect you. To keep that light on.

Which is why you’re perched on his bed, your hair damp from the rain, clad in his hoodie. You look like a lost puppy, unsure of what to do with yourself while he adds more pillows to his bed for you. Edel managed to cave in letting him and you share a bed, sympathising with your home life she’s heard off Joey. The only condition is to keep the door ajar.

“Your room’s cosy.” Your quiet voice penetrates the silence. “Warm…has life in it.”

Tadhg’s chest clenches and he sits beside you, taking your hand in his. He hates physical touch unless it’s to do with you. “Does yours not?” He asks, since he’s never actually been over yours. Not allowed for numerous reasons.