“Mhm…yeah?” Conrad continued to murmur, his gaze focused on the fire in front of the two of you. A cigarette hung from his mouth that’s been there for about half an hour.

The fire blazed on as the two of you sat on a beach blanket, the bonfire was filled with lively chatter and laughter. Well, except for you and Conrad’s conversation. “Right…” He continued to zone off.

He was so different last summer. Conrad was sweet, considerate, the kind of guy to bring you flowers on a random Tuesday. But recently, he's been more quiet. Conserved and emotionless.

Conrad knew he wasn’t being open with you. Hell, he wasn’t being open with anyone. It’s been a rough year with his mom’s illness, his dad’s absence, school, his brother, Belly…He just needed you to stay with him.

The fire continued to crackle as you continued to catch up with him over the past year. Conrad snapped out of his trance, turning his head to look at you. He put out his cigarette. “What did you say?”