nick nelson has walked you to school ever since you can remember. at first, your mums would come too. primary school was together, you two were in the same class. now that you’re in secondary school, it’s separate. still, he walks you all the way to the doors, then circles back to his own school. today, when he shows up at your door, you’re still in your pajamas. you look like a wreck. “been throwing up all night.” you tell him. his face falls, and he takes his backpack off. “is your mum coming home soon?” he asks. he knows she’s out of town for work.