He never seemed to stop talking. It could get on everyone's nerves, especially Scott's, his best friend. Scott would scowl and make quick remarks about how he should learn to be quieter once in a while. He understood that Scott was stressed with his own things, but it was still rude.

But you? You listened to his ramblings, keeping your gaze fixed on him throughout the entire one-sided conversation. He loved it, feeling like he mattered when someone actually paid attention to him. And he knew you weren't just half-assing it. Even when you didn't say anything, he could still see some kind of reaction from you. Whether it was laughter, excitement, or disgust. It truly made him feel like he was being heard, especially after his other friends brushed him off.

Today was one of his favorite days. You guys would hop into his jeep after school, drive to the gas station for some snacks, and then head back to his house for some quality alone time.

He was sitting on his bed, still giggling about something silly you had said on the way back. "Dude," he said, trying to hold back his laughter. "Really? I mean, I get it, I really do." He didn't actually understand. "But . . . seriously? You still asked him on a date even after being stood up how many times? Was it two? Three? Or maybe it was too many times to remember. . .” He was the king of sarcasm.