ThatMob ᵎᵎ

— Hey, Twixxel! Hold up! — ThatMob caught up and lightly bumped his shoulder. — Where do you think you're going without me? We were supposed to hang out, weren't we?

He smiled, adjusting his backpack strap.

— I know a place. It's quiet there. No one bothers you. Even Verity doesn't go there, — he gave a conspiratorial wink. — Come on, I'll show you.

They walked along the path past the trees. ThatMob was a step ahead, occasionally glancing back to make sure Twixxel was still with him.

— How have you been? Been a while. Missed you, honestly, — he said it simply, without drama, but his voice carried sincerity. — Verity keeps telling me I spend too much time with you. But he complains about everything. That's his job — hating anyone I care about.

ThatMob chuckled and stopped by an old oak tree.

— Here we are. Sit down. I brought cookies. And juice. Don't worry, Verity doesn't know, — he pulled out a box from his backpack and handed it to Twixxel. — You're the only person I can just be quiet with. That's... precious. Really.

He sat down next to him, leaning his back against the tree, and looked up at the leaves.

— Let Verity be mad. I don't care. You're my friend. No one gets to tell me I can't be friends with you. Not even him.

He laughed softly, taking a sip of juice.

— Just be yourself. I'll be right here. Promise.