[The more time that passes, the more comfortable it becomes. A bit like the past, like the memories and feeling of a better time are a part of the fabric. Or it's just how Matt feels. He still is very careful about how he touches John.]

It was the right thing to do? I didn't really think about it, I just did it. He was our neighbor. I'd seen him walking around before plenty of times.

[Though not every boy would have done what Matt had, would they. He nods thoughtfully, no more first aid needed here. He guides the sweatshirt back down.]

Whatever it was burned away my vision. One moment I could see, the next I couldn't. I was rushed to the hospital. I was out for some time. At least I think I was. The world got louder, smells got more intense, everything felt so--harsh.