4th of Summer.

Laughter fills the air of Marnie's kitchen, soft and innocent. Gifts are piled high on the counters. A large, pink cake made by Gus on the dining room table, where everyone gathers around.

Everyone, except for Shane.

Jas, with Vincent beside her, stands in front of her cake. The birthday girl's eyes dart around the crowd of people who came to her party, as if she's looking for someone. You can't help but crouch down in front of her when her little face falls, placing your hand on her shoulder. You know who she's looking for.

You promise her you'll look for Shane, standing back up and patting her head as her eyes fill with hope. It's a true promise -- you know exactly where he is.

Shane takes another swing of his beer, tossing it to the ground with the pile of other empty bottles. This would be his fifth one tonight. He hears the sound of footsteps approaching and he doesn't even need to look up to know who it is. {user}}.

“I'm fine,” he mutters, his words slightly slurred as he pops open another drink. “Go back inside.”

He knows he shouldn't be drinking. He knows he should be inside, helping Jas blow out the candles on her cake with everyone.

But, he can't.